Dispensing closure with tamper resistant feature

Abstract

A dispensing closure having a non-frangible tamper resistant feature includes a body having a locking pin having an initial configuration and a locked configuration that moves relative to the initial configuration when engaged by a portion of a container or spout. The closure includes a lid connected to the body and movable between an initial closed position, an open position, and a subsequent closed position returning from the open position. The closure has a bore and a tamper resistant tab wherein in the initial closed position of the closure, the locking pin is positioned in the locked configuration and the tamper resistant tab is retained below the locking pin. In the subsequent closed position of the closure, the tamper resistant tab is rotated laterally outward into the aperture to indicate evidence of tampering to the user.

Description

[0001] priority

[0002] not applicable Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a closure, components of the closure, a package on which the closure is disposed, and a method of manufacturing and using the closure and / or the package, wherein the closure is initially preventable but subsequently openable to allow communication (e.g., flow or other movement) between the outside and inside of a container on which the closure is disposed.

[0004] Background Technology and Existing Technical Problems

[0005] Closures are used to selectively prevent or allow substances to communicate between the outside and inside of a container (e.g., flexible bags, rigid bottles, machines, dispensing equipment, containment systems, etc.) through openings in the container. Various fluid and non-fluid substances (including detergents, creams, foods, granules, liquids, powders, small articles, etc.) can be packaged in containers. Typical closures include (1) a body (e.g., bag fittings, threaded or snap-fit ​​bases, structures, etc.) positioned at the opening leading to the interior of the container and (2) a closure element (e.g., a cap, cover, top cover, etc.).

[0006] The closure body can typically be: (1) a separate structure that (a) can be attached to the opening of such a container and (b) defines at least one passage through the body for communication with the interior of such a container through the opening of such a container; or (2) an integral structure that is an integral part of such a container and defines at least one passage through the integral structure such that the passage itself serves as an opening to the container.

[0007] Closing elements are typically adaptable to move relative to the main channel between (1) a closed position that blocks the channel and (2) an open position that at least partially exposes the channel.

[0008] A closure specifically designed for dispensing fluid substances can be described as a dispensing closure. Various fluid materials or substances (including oils, detergents, creams, gels, liquids, foods, granules, powders, etc.) can be packaged in rigid, flexible, or collapsible containers with dispensing closures that can be opened and closed. Flexible containers can be pressurized by the user to force the fluid substance out of the container and through the closure body, thereby dispensing the fluid substance to a target area or target surface region. A container with a closure and containing its contents can be characterized as a "package".

[0009] Many common prior art closures include tamper-evident features that rely on fragile or easily breakable tear strips and one-way snap-fit ​​elements that securely hold the closure until initially opened by a user. These prior art features are typically removed or repositioned when the closure is lifted to visibly indicate to the consumer that the closure has been initially opened. These removable and / or movable prior art tamper-evident features are often held by thin, fragile elements that are difficult to mold and do not present a consistent tearing or breaking force to the user. Due to the difficulty of machining these delicate, flexible features, prior art fragile tabs typically require in-mold closure of the closure. Furthermore, for small-diameter closures, the space available for incorporating drop bags or shielding walls that visibly conceal movable or fragile features is very limited. Typically, these prior art features require a larger closure diameter or the available height of a dispensing nozzle or other dispensing structure that interferes with the closure.

[0010] The inventors of this invention have determined that it is desirable to provide an improved dispensing closure in which, after initial opening of the closure, tamper-proof features remain together with the body and the closure element, and such features engage during the assembly of the nozzle into a subassembly or onto a container.

[0011] It would be beneficial if such improved dispensing closures could be operated relatively easily without requiring the user to perform very complex operations or a series of steps.

[0012] It would also be beneficial if such improved dispensing closures could be manufactured relatively easily and assembled with containers, and could include robust, non-fragile tamper-proof features to reduce the likelihood of damage to them during assembly and / or shipping and handling.

[0013] Furthermore, it would be ideal if such an improved dispensing closure could be opened or operated without generating smaller, separate, removable, fragile components that produce sharp edges.

[0014] The inventors of this invention have also discovered that, at least for some applications, it is desirable to provide an improved assembly of closures and packaging with non-fragile tamper-proof features, which can be manufactured and / or assembled at a relatively low cost, and can be adapted to be manufactured using efficient, high-quality, large-volume technologies, and can facilitate the minimization of plastic and part weight.

[0015] The inventors of this invention have discovered how to provide such improved closures, which include novel advantageous features not taught or conceived by the prior art to date, and which are adaptable to designs having one or more of the aforementioned benefits or features. Summary of the Invention

[0016] According to a broad form of the invention, a dispensing closure for dispensing a substance capable of being stored within the interior of a container includes a body for positioning at an opening of the container. The body includes a platform having at least one orifice and a skirt that hangs from the platform and has means for attaching the body to the container. The body has a locking pin extending therefrom, having an initial configuration and a locking configuration movable relative to the initial configuration. The closure includes a nozzle retained within the body. The nozzle defines an inlet orifice, a dispensing orifice, and a dispensing channel extending through the nozzle to accommodate the flow of substance from the interior of the container through the nozzle. The locking pin is positioned in the locking configuration, wherein the nozzle is retained within the body. The closure includes a cap connected to the body and movable between an initial closed position, an open position, and a subsequent closed position, the initial closed position closing the dispensing orifice of the nozzle, the open position exposing the dispensing orifice of the nozzle, and the subsequent closed position returning from the open position and closing the dispensing orifice of the nozzle. The cap includes a hole and an tamper-evident tab, wherein in the initial closed position of the cap, the locking pin is positioned in the locking mechanism within the hole, and the tamper-evident tab is held below the locking pin. In the subsequent closed position of the cap, returning from the open position, the tamper-evident tab rotates laterally outward into the hole to indicate evidence of tampering to the user of the closure.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the locking pin is configured to rotate between its initial configuration and its locking configuration by inserting the nozzle into the body of the closure.

[0018] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the locking pin extends substantially parallel to the central axis of the body in its initial configuration, and extends transversely to the central axis in the locking configuration.

[0019] According to another embodiment of the invention, the tamper-evident tab is configured to rotate into the hole in the cap by contacting the locking pin during the movement of the cap from the open position to the subsequently closed position.

[0020] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the tamper-evident tab defines a protrusion that engages the locking pin when the cover is in its initial closed position. Preferably, the tamper-evident tab is configured to provide an auditory and / or tactile indication to the user of the closure when the cover first moves from its initial closed position to its open position.

[0021] In another aspect of the invention, the tamper-evident tab of the cap is connected to the cap by a non-fragile hinge. The locking pin is also preferably connected to the body by a non-fragile hinge.

[0022] In another embodiment of the invention, the dispensing closure is combined with a container for the fluid substance. The closure and the container for the fluid substance together form a package.

[0023] According to another broad form of the invention, a dispensing closure for dispensing a substance that can be stored inside a container is provided. The dispensing closure includes a body for positioning at an opening of the container. The body has a platform including at least one orifice and a skirt that hangs from the platform and has means for attaching the body to the container. The body includes a locking pin extending therefrom, the locking pin having an initial configuration and a locking configuration that moves relative to the initial configuration when engaged by a part of the container or other article of manufacture. The dispensing closure includes a cap connected to the body and movable between an initial closed position, an open position, and a subsequent closed position, the initial closed position closing the at least one orifice of the body, the open position exposing the at least one orifice of the body, and the subsequent closed position returning from the open position and closing the at least one orifice of the body. The cap of the closure includes an orifice and a tamper-evident tab, wherein in the initial closed position of the cap, the locking pin is positioned in the locking configuration, and the tamper-evident tab is held below the locking pin. In the subsequent closed position of the cap, the tamper-evident tab rotates laterally outward into the hole to indicate evidence of tampering to the user of the closure.

[0024] According to another broad form of the invention, a method for manufacturing a dispensing closure is disclosed, wherein the method includes the step of obtaining a body for positioning at an opening of a container. The body includes a platform having at least one orifice and a skirt, the skirt hanging from the platform and having means for attaching the body to the container. The body has a locking pin extending therefrom, the locking pin having an initial configuration and a locking configuration movable relative to the initial configuration. The body includes a cap connected to the body, and the cap is movable between an initial closed position, an open position, and a subsequent closed position returning from the open position. The cap includes an orifice and a tamper-evident tab. The method includes the step of obtaining a nozzle defining an inlet orifice, a dispensing orifice, and a dispensing channel extending through the nozzle to accommodate the flow of material through the nozzle. The method includes the step of inserting the nozzle through the orifice into the body with the cap in its initial closed position, whereby the nozzle moves the locking pin into the locking configuration within the orifice, and the tamper-evident tab is held below the locking pin.

[0025] According to another broad form of the invention, a method for opening a package is disclosed, wherein the method includes the step of obtaining the package, which includes a container and a dispensing closure disposed on the container. The dispensing closure is of the type having a body positioned at an opening in the container. The body has a platform including at least one orifice. The body has a skirt that hangs from the platform and has means for attaching the body to the container. The body also has a locking pin extending therefrom, having an initial configuration and a locking configuration that moves relative to the initial configuration. The dispensing closure has a nozzle held within the body. The nozzle defines an inlet orifice, a dispensing orifice, and a dispensing channel that extends through the nozzle to accommodate the flow of substance from the interior of the container through the nozzle. With the nozzle held within the body, the locking pin is positioned in the locking configuration. The dispensing closure also includes a cap connected to the body and movable between an initial closed position, an open position, and a subsequent closed position, wherein the initial closed position closes the dispensing orifice of the nozzle, the open position exposes the dispensing orifice of the nozzle, and the subsequent closed position returns from the open position and closes the dispensing orifice of the nozzle. The cap has an orifice and an tamper-evident tab, wherein in the initial closed position of the cap, a locking pin is positioned in the locking configuration, and the tamper-evident tab is held below the locking pin. The method includes the step of moving the cap from the initial closed position to the open position. The method includes another step of moving the cap from the open position to the subsequent closed position, wherein the tamper-evident tab is laterally rotated outward through the locking pin into the orifice to indicate evidence of tampering to the user of the closure.

[0026] Other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from a review of the entire specification, including the appended claims and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is an isometric view of a preferred embodiment of the dispensing closure of the present invention, viewed from the top front and right side, wherein the cap is shown in an initially closed, unacted position, and the closure is positioned at the opening of a portion of the upper part of a bottle-shaped container. Figure 1 The dispensing closure is shown, which will be presented to the user or consumer as part of the packaging;

[0028] Figure 2 It is only from Figure 1 Isometric views of the top front and right side of the distribution closure, and Figure 2 The dispensing closure is shown before full assembly with the nozzle;

[0029] Figure 3 yes Figure 2The front view of the distribution closure shown;

[0030] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 The top plan view of the distribution closure shown;

[0031] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 The right-side front view of the distribution closure shown is basically the same as the left-side view;

[0032] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 The rear front view of the distribution closure shown;

[0033] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 The bottom plan view of the distribution closure shown;

[0034] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 The approximate length of the distribution closure shown Figure 4 The transverse sectional view taken from view plane 8-8 in the image, and Figure 8 The nozzle is shown before it engages with the locking pin of the body;

[0035] Figure 9 It is similar to Figure 2 The isometric view of the distribution closure shown is taken from the top front and right side; however, Figure 9 The dispensing closure is shown after the nozzle has been fully inserted into the body, thereby moving the locking pin through a hole in the cap into the locking mechanism of the pin;

[0036] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 The approximate length of the distribution closure shown Figure 4 A transverse sectional view taken from the same view plane 8-8, and Figure 9 The cap is shown in its initial closed position, with the locking pin rotating by engaging with the nozzle to retain and cover the tamper-evident tab;

[0037] Figure 11 It is similar to Figure 9 The isometric view of the closure from the top front and right side, however... Figure 11 This illustrates the first time the cap is lifted or moved by the user from its initial closed position toward its open position;

[0038] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 The approximate length of the distribution closure shown Figure 4 A transverse sectional view taken from the same view plane 8-8, and Figure 12The tamper-proof tab and locking pin are shown stretched just before the tamper-proof tab slides past the locking pin to give an auditory and / or tactile indication to the user;

[0039] Figure 13 It is similar to Figure 11 The isometric view of the closure from the top front and right side, however... Figure 13 The cap is shown in the fully open position, allowing dispensing through the nozzle's dispensing orifice;

[0040] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 The approximate length of the distribution closure shown Figure 4 A transverse sectional view taken from the same view plane 8-8 in the image;

[0041] Figure 15 It is similar to Figure 13 The isometric view of the closure from the top front and right side, however... Figure 15 The cap is shown moving from a fully open position toward a subsequently closed position;

[0042] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 The approximate length of the distribution closure shown Figure 4 A transverse sectional view taken from the same view plane 8-8, and Figure 16 The tamper-evident tab is shown engaging the locking pin as the cap moves toward the subsequently closed position, which initiates the push of the tamper-evident tab through a hole in the cap;

[0043] Figure 17 It is similar to Figure 15 The distribution closure is viewed at an isometric angle from the top front and right side; however, Figure 17 The cap is shown moving to its subsequent closed position;

[0044] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 The approximate length of the distribution closure shown Figure 4 The transverse sectional view taken from view plane 8-8 in the image, and Figure 18 A tamper-evident tab is shown that rotates through a hole in the cap and laterally outward from the locking pin to indicate tampering.

[0045] Figure 19 yes Figure 1 The distribution of the closure and container shown generally follows a path similar to... Figure 4 A transverse sectional view taken from the vertical cross-section of 8-8 in the image, and Figure 19 The cap is shown in its initial closed position (before actuation or opening);

[0046] Figure 20It is only Figure 8 The right-side front view of the nozzle shown; and

[0047] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 The nozzle shown is an isometric view taken from the top right. Detailed Implementation

[0048] While the invention allows for many different embodiments, this specification and drawings disclose only some specific forms as examples of the invention. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the described embodiments in its most broad form. The scope of the invention is indicated in the appended claims.

[0049] For ease of description, the dispensing closure 40 of the present invention (or simply "closure" below) is described in a typical (upright) position when the dispensing closure is disposed in an upright container 44 of a substance or product (the upper end of the container is only located in the upright position). Figure 1 and Figure 19 When the opening of the closure (exemplified in the form of an upright bottle) is in the typical (upright) position, the dispensing closure will have this position, and terms such as up, down, radial, axial, above, below, and lateral are referenced to this position and relative to the central axis 45 extending vertically through the center of the closure 40 (in Figure 8 , Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 14 (As can be seen in the text). However, it should be understood that the dispensing closure embodying the present invention can be manufactured, stored, transported, used, and sold in orientations other than those described.

[0050] The dispensing closure of the present invention is suitable for use with a variety of conventional or special containers, although details of these containers are not fully illustrated or described, but will be apparent to those skilled in the art and those who understand such containers. The specific containers described herein do not themselves form part of the broadest aspect of the invention and are therefore not intended to limit the broadest aspect of the invention.

[0051] The exemplified preferred embodiments of the dispensing closure of the present invention are typically used on containers of materials or substances (e.g., products such as detergents, liquid foods, or beverages) that can be dispensed from or otherwise removed from the container by opening the closure. The product can be, for example, a fluid substance such as a liquid, cream, powder, slurry, or paste. If the container and closure are large enough, the product can also be a non-fluid, discrete block of material (e.g., food such as nuts, candy, cookies, desserts, etc., or non-food items including various articles, granules, pellets, etc.), which can be removed from the container by hand, scooped out, or poured out by opening the closure. Such materials can be, for example, food, personal care products, industrial products, household products, or other types of products. Such materials are intended for human or animal use, internal or external, or for other purposes (e.g., activities involving medicine, manufacturing, commercial or domestic maintenance, construction, agriculture, etc.).

[0052] Figures 1 to 21 An example is illustrated of a preferred embodiment of the dispensing closure 40 or a sub-component thereof incorporating a non-fragile tamper-proof feature according to the present invention. The preferred embodiment of the dispensing closure 40 has a central axis 45 ( Figure 8 ) and the basic components of the body 54 for positioning at the opening 46 of the container 44 (e.g., in Figure 1 and 19 As shown in the diagram, a closure element or cap 56 is movably connected to the body 54, and a nozzle 60 extends through the body 54 and is covered by the cap 56. As will be discussed below, the invention includes a non-preferred embodiment that does not include the nozzle 60 itself, but still includes the advantageous non-fragile tamper-proof features of the closure 40 of the invention only in the body 54 and the cap 56.

[0053] Nozzle 60 defines a channel (described in detail below) through which material flows or otherwise moves from the interior of container 44 to the external environment. In the illustrated preferred embodiment, closure 40 is provided as a separate article particularly adapted to attach to container 44, which will typically contain the contents of one or more products, such as articles or fluid materials. Such container 44 may be a collapsible flexible bag (not illustrated) with suitable modifications to body 54 to become an accessory, or container 44 may be a generally rigid vessel, such as a bottle or jar, that may have slightly flexible elastic walls.

[0054] However, it should be understood that container 44 can be some other type of container or vessel for a substance, which may include, for example, a medical device, processing machine, dispenser, machine storage container, or part thereof, wherein container 44 has an opening 46 leading to the interior of the container. Container 44 itself, such as a bottle, bag, or other vessel, does not form part of the broadest aspect of the invention itself. Container 44 may have any construction suitable for its intended use.

[0055] Container 44 or a portion thereof may be made of a material suitable for the intended application (e.g., a thin, flexible material for a bag (where such material may be a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film or a polyethylene film), or a thicker, less flexible material for a bottle (where such less flexible material may be injection-molded polyethylene or polypropylene).

[0056] In applications where the body 54 of the closure 40 is attached to a container 44 (such as a bottle or bag), it is conceivable that, typically, after the closure manufacturer manufactures the closure 40 (e.g., by molding the closure components, namely the body 54, cap 56, and nozzle 60, from a thermoplastic polymer and assembling them together with the cap 56 in an initial assembly orientation that defines an unactuated initial closed position or state), the closure manufacturer then transports the closed closure 40 to a filling facility at another location where the container 44 is manufactured or otherwise supplied and where the container 44 is filled with the product. However, for some applications, the components of the closure 40 may be transported by the closure manufacturer to the filling facility in an unassembled state for subsequent assembly.

[0057] If container 44 is a collapsible bag as illustrated, the closure body 54 may include suitable conventional or special fitting portions (as illustrated or as will be discussed in detail below) that may be attached to the bag during its manufacture and filling, or attached to the bag during its manufacture but before it is subsequently filled through the unassembled closure body 54 or through an open area of ​​the bag wall that will be sealed and closed later.

[0058] In the illustrative preferred embodiment of the invention, the closure 40 is preferably configured as an assembly of the body 54, the cap 56, and the nozzle 60, which together define an article of article (i.e., the closure 40) for attachment to the container 44. The illustrative preferred embodiment of the closure 40 is particularly suitable for detachable attachment (e.g., mounting or setting) to a bottle-shaped container 44. However, it should be understood that in some applications, it may be desirable for the closure 40 to be attached to the container 44 in a manner that does not allow a user to remove the closure 40 from the container 44. Furthermore, it may be desirable for the closure 40 (or at least the body 54 of the closure 40) to be formed as an integral, one-piece portion, or extension of the container 44 (e.g., a bag or bottle), wherein such an integral portion or extension also (i.e., simultaneously) defines an end structure (or other portion) of the container 44 itself. In one form, the body 54 itself may surround the entire container 44.

[0059] When container 44 is a bottle, the bottle typically includes an upper end or other suitable structure on certain portions of the bottle that defines a bottle mouth (i.e., a portion defining an opening inside the bottle), and such a bottle mouth typically has a cross-sectional configuration to which the closure 40 is designed to engage. The body portion of the bottle may have a different cross-sectional configuration than the bottle mouth (as illustrated). Alternatively, the bottle may have a substantially uniform shape along its entire length or height without any portion that is dimensionally reduced or has a different cross-section. The bottle may have one or more walls that are generally rigid or flexible and can be gripped by a user.

[0060] exist Figures 1 to 21 The specific embodiment of the closure 40 illustrated is particularly suitable for use with a container 44 having one or more substantially flexible walls that can be squeezed or laterally deflected inward by a user to increase internal pressure within the bottle, thereby forcing the product out of the bottle and through the open closure. In bottles with one or more flexible walls, these walls typically possess sufficient inherent elasticity such that when the squeezing force is removed, the bottle walls return to their normal stress-free shape.

[0061] In other applications, it may be desirable to use a generally rigid container 44 and pressurize the inside of the container with a piston or other pressurization system at a selected time to force the product out through the open closure, or to reduce the external environmental pressure so that the material is sucked out through the open closure 40.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the closure 40 includes a specially constructed closure body 54 and a cap 56 having mating, non-fragile, tamper-proof features. As described below, initial or partial opening of the cap 56 of the closure 40 by a user will permanently alter the physical state of the closure 40, thereby generating or providing evidence of tampering of the initial or partial opening of the closure 40 to subsequent users.

[0063] The closure body 54, cap 56, and nozzle 60 are each preferably molded from a suitable thermoplastic material (such as polyethylene or polypropylene). In the currently preferred form of the closure 40, the body 54 and cap 56 are molded from the same thermoplastic material into a single structure, while the nozzle 60 is molded separately and then assembled with the body 54 and cap 56 to form a sub-assembly before being placed onto the container 44. Other materials may be used instead.

[0064] As will be discussed in more detail below, the accompanying drawings of this application show the cover 56 of the closure 40 in various movable positions. The following paragraphs will briefly summarize the illustrated positions.

[0065] Figure 1 , Figures 9 to 10 and Figure 19 An example of an assembled closure 40 is shown, wherein the cap 56 is positioned in the initial closed position or state that the user or consumer will encounter. Figure 1 , Figures 9 to 10 and Figure 19 This can also be characterized by the example of a cap 56 and a nozzle 60 in their initial assembly orientation. Figure 10 and Figure 19 (See in the image) and body 54, the initial assembly orientation prevents but is subsequently operable to allow the material to pass through the closure 40 for communication.

[0066] Figures 2 to 8 The closure 40 is shown before the nozzle 60 is fully inserted or positioned within the closure body 54. As will be discussed in more detail below, the positioning of the nozzle 60 forces the non-fragile tamper-evident features of the cap 56 and the body 54 to engage in the initial closed position of the cap 56, which will be encountered by the consumer.

[0067] Figure 11 and Figure 12 The cover 56 of the closure 40 is shown before the tamper-evident features of the cover 56 and the body 54 are completely separated, and is initially opened by the user (i.e., the first opening).

[0068] Figure 13 and Figure 14The cap 56 of the closure 40 is shown to be moved to the fully open position to expose the nozzle 60, thereby allowing the dispensing of fluid substances (such as an inverted package containing the container 44 and the closure 40) from the container 44 through the open closure 40.

[0069] Figure 15 and Figure 16 The cover 56 of the closure 40 is shown to be re-closed by the user or moved to a subsequently closed position, such that the tamper-evident device of the cover 56 and the body 54 is initially re-engaged.

[0070] Figure 17 and Figure 18 The cover 56 of the closure 40 is shown moving to the subsequently closed position, thereby altering the tamper-evident features to visually indicate to the user that the closure 40 has previously been opened.

[0071] Reference Appendix Figure 10 The illustrated preferred embodiment of the closure 40 of the present invention includes a generally hollow base or body 54 and a cap 56 integrally formed and connected to the body 54. The body 54 includes a top or platform 58 defining an inner side facing the interior of the container 44 (i.e., axially inward or downward in the figure) and an outer side facing the surrounding environment (i.e., axially outward or upward in the figure). The platform 58 also includes a circular orifice 61 therein, centered on axis 45, allowing the placement or insertion of a nozzle 60. A wall or skirt 62 extends axially inward or downward from the platform 58. The skirt 62 includes a device or internal thread 63 for receiving the external thread 49 of the container 44 (in... Figure 19 (See in the image) or other connecting means to secure the body 54 to the container 44. It should be understood that the body 54 may have other attachment means for engaging features on the container 44, including but not limited to snap-fit ​​beads and grooves, toggle clamps, friction fittings, locks, adhesives, welding, etc., positioned on any part of the body 54 to secure the body 54 to the opening 46 of the container 44.

[0072] Now for reference Figure 6 and Figure 14 The cover 56 is connected to the body 54 by a hinge 65. The hinge 65 is integrally molded with the cover 56 and the closure body 54 near the platform 58 (in... Figure 14(As can be seen in the figure), to accommodate the movement of the cap 56 between an open position or state exposing the nozzle 60 and a closed position or state sealing the nozzle 60. The hinge 65 may have any suitable conventional or special design. For example, the hinge 65 illustrated in the figure may be a conventional quick-acting type hinge, such as those described in U.S. Patent No. 5,356,017 or U.S. Patent No. 5,642,824, the details of which do not constitute part of the most extensive form of the invention. The hinge 65 may also be a non-quick-acting type, including a strap or cord. The cap 56 may engage with the body 54 in a completely removable manner, such as by engaging threads, friction, or snap-fit ​​beaded edges.

[0073] like Figure 8 As shown, the body 54 may optionally be provided with a tamper-evident tether, strip, or strap 66 at its axially inward or lower end, which allows the closure 40 to be partially removed or detached from the container 44, such as for cleaning or recycling purposes. The tether 66 includes a plurality of fragile bridging elements or components 67 extending circumferentially between portions of the tether 66. The fragile elements 67 are configured to break under tension when the body 54 is rotated a predetermined amount relative to the container 44. The breaking of the fragile elements 67 allows the tether 66 to expand axially away from the opening 46 of the container 44, but not to be completely removed from the container 44. In the most general aspect of the closure 40 of the invention, the tether 66 may be omitted entirely.

[0074] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 10 The closed body 54 includes a pivot point or hinge 69 (in Figure 8 (Pointed out) A non-fragile locking pin 68 extending from the skirt 62, and having an initial or molded construction ( Figure 8 The structure extends generally vertically or axially and is parallel to the central axis 45. The locking pin 68 also has a generally transverse (and preferably substantially horizontal) locking structure. Figure 10 When facing a portion of the nozzle 60 (or other articles, such as container 44, locking ring, valve or closure or other sufficiently rigid parts of the package on which the closure is provided), the locking configuration moves relative to the initial configuration, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0075] See now Figure 14 and Figure 21The nozzle 60 is a generally cylindrical hollow structure having an inlet orifice 70, an outlet or dispensing orifice 72, and a through or dispensing channel 76 extending between the inlet orifice 70 and the dispensing orifice 72. The nozzle 60 includes a laterally extending annular flange 78 for engaging with a locking pin 68 during placement within the body 54 to push the locking pin 68 from its initial configuration around the hinge 69 to a locked configuration. The nozzle 60 includes an upper beaded flange or protrusion 80 for frictional engagement with an orifice 61 on a top platform 58 surrounding the body 54 and a lower plug seal 81 for sealing the interior of the opening 46 of the container 44. Figure 19 (as shown in the image).

[0076] See Figure 10 and Figure 14 The cap 56 includes a tip 82 having an outer wall 83 for covering or closing the closure body 54 and the nozzle 60. The tip 82 includes a downwardly extending resilient plug seal 84 for sealing or blocking the dispensing orifice 72 inside the nozzle 60 when the cap 56 is in its initial closed position or in a subsequent closed position on top of the body 54. The cap 56 also includes an annular sealing wall 86 for providing an additional seal around the outside of the nozzle 60 when the cap 56 is in the closed position. The nozzle dispensing orifice 72 and / or the cap plug seal 84 are sufficiently flexible to accommodate resilient deformation, thereby establishing a leak-proof seal between them. The nozzle dispensing orifice 72 is circular and centered on the central axis 45 of the closure body 54. However, it should be understood that in some applications, the dispensing orifice 72 and its corresponding plug seal 84 of the cap 56 may have other shapes, such as one or more slots and elongated plugs, multiple holes and plugs, polygonal holes and plugs, irregularly shaped holes and plugs, etc. The cap 56 includes a cap lifting protrusion 88 that extends laterally outward above a deep recessed front surface 90 to allow the user's fingers to grip the cap 56 and rotate it about the hinge 65.

[0077] Now for reference Figure 8 and Figure 10 The cover 56 includes a window or hole 94, which is elongated in the circumferential or horizontal direction and extends around the bottom of the cover 56 in both its initial closed position and subsequent closed position. A tamper-evident tab 96 extends from the wall 83 of the cover 56 near the bottom of the hole 94 via a non-fragile hinge 98. The tamper-evident tab 96 is L-shaped and has a protrusion or foot 99 configured to engage in a locking configuration (such as...). Figure 10 (As shown) the locking pin 68 is contacted and is further configured to release from below the locking pin 68 so that when the cover 56 moves away from its initial closed position to the open position (as shown) Figure 12 and Figure 14It generates auditory and / or tactile instructions to the user of the closure 40.

[0078] The inventors have discovered that the arrangement of the locking pin 68 and the tamper-evident tab 96 of the closure 40 provides a closure that is easier to manufacture, featuring a robust tamper-evident feature that does not require the integration of difficult-to-manufacture fragile components, which might be particularly difficult to manufacture for drop bags or shielding walls for small-diameter closures. Furthermore, the locking pin 68 and the tamper-evident tab 96 together exhibit a more consistent initial opening force compared to the inconsistent tearing force of prior art fragile tamper-evident features of closures. Compared to prior art fragile tamper-evident devices, the non-fragile tamper-evident feature of the locking pin 68 and the tab 96 of the closure 40 engage in a robust structural manner that further enhances the resistance to transport and handling of the closure 40.

[0079] Initially, the body 54 and the cap 56 are molded or otherwise configured as a single structure, while the nozzle 60 is molded or otherwise configured as a separate component. Subsequently, in a preferred process, the manufacturer first moves the cap 56 into an initial closed position (such that the orifice 94 and the tamper-evident tab 96 are positioned near the locking pin 68, as...). Figure 8 (As shown), the body 54 and nozzle 60 are then moved together along axis 45 to force nozzle 60 into and through the orifice 61 of the top platform 58 of body 54, thereby assembling body 54 and cap 56 with nozzle 60. Continued axial movement of nozzle 60 and body 54 of closure 40 causes flange 78 of nozzle 60 to be forced against locking pin 68, thereby causing locking pin 68 to rotate about its pivot point or hinge 69 into the locking configuration of cap 56. Figure 10 In the visible locking configuration, the locking pin 68 rotates horizontally to the top of the tamper-evident tab 96 and is concealed from the user, making the tamper-evident tab 96 invisible. Only the locking pin 68 protrudes significantly into or through the hole 94 in the cap 56 to provide a clear indication of the unacted, untampered closure 40. The retaining bead or rib 80 of the nozzle 60 slides on the top platform 58 in the body 54 to securely hold the nozzle 60 to the body 54. Thus, through the engagement of the locking pin 68 and the nozzle 60, the cap 56 is securely held in its initial closed (i.e., unacted) position.

[0080] refer to Figure 19 After the body 54, cap 56 and nozzle 60 are assembled into the closure 40 of the present invention (which is typically transported to a filler or bottling machine), and after the container 44 is filled with fluid material, the closure is assembled into the container 44 by engaging the body thread 63 with the container thread 49 to secure the closure 40 at the opening 46 of the container 44.

[0081] A preferred method for using or actuating the closure 40 of the present invention when assembled in package form onto a container 44 of a fluid substance will now be discussed. (See reference...) Figure 9 and Figure 10 The user will encounter a closure 40, in which a locking pin 68 protrudes into a hole 94 and covers an anti-tamper tab 96, and a cap 56 is positioned and secured in its initial closed position during manufacturing.

[0082] refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12 The user grasps the closure 40 or the container 44 ( Figure 19 When engaging the cover, lift the protrusion 88 to begin rotating the cover 56 relative to the body 54 about the hinge 65 from the initial closed position to the open position. Figure 12 The tamper-evident tab 96 slides along the underside of the locking pin 68, and the locking pin 68 is stretched axially upward and outward due to the pulling force of the movable cap 56. When the foot 99 of the tamper-evident tab 96 is released from under the locking pin 68, the stored potential energy is released with an audible and / or tactile click to indicate to the user that the closure 40 has been opened for the first time. Movement of the cap 56 toward the open position initiates the disengagement of the plug 84 and the sealing wall 86 from the nozzle 60.

[0083] refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 The user can move the cap 56 to the open or fully open position as shown in the figure to allow fluid substances to flow from inside the container through the dispensing channel 76. Figure 14 Distribute and exit the nozzle 60 from the exposed distribution orifice 72.

[0084] refer to Figure 15 and Figure 16 The user can move the cap 56 from the open or fully open position toward the subsequently closed or reclosed position. This movement of the cap 56 toward the subsequently closed position causes the tamper-evident tab 96 to abut the locking pin 68 laterally or radially inward or inward (on the side opposite the foot 99), thereby pushing the tamper-evident tab 96 radially or laterally outward toward the hole 94. Furthermore, this movement of the cap toward the subsequently closed position causes the plug 84 and the sealing wall 86 to reseal around and within the nozzle 60.

[0085] refer to Figure 17 and Figure 18The cover 56 can be further moved by the user into a subsequently closed or reclosed position. Further movement of the cover 56 into the subsequently fully closed position causes the tamper-evident tab 96 to move further laterally outward through contact with the locking pin 68, thereby allowing the tamper-evident tab 96 to rotate about its hinge 98 into or completely through the hole 94, providing the user with a clear indication that the closure 40 has been actuated or opened. The construction of the locking pin 68 and the tamper-evident tab 96 ensures that the tamper-evident tab 96 cannot re-enter its concealed configuration beneath the locking pin 68 after the initial opening of the closure 40. The laterally outward face of the tab 96 may contain markings (e.g., a symbol or the word "open") or a finish or color different from the rest of the cover 56, making it highly apparent to the user that the closure 40 has been actuated.

[0086] In an alternative embodiment of the invention (not illustrated), the locking pin 68 of the closure body 54 is hinged to the skirt 62 via a vertically extending hinge 69 (instead of the horizontally extending hinge 69 as illustrated), such that the locking pin 68 rotates laterally outward in a different manner to extend into the hole 94 in the cap 56 to secure the cap 56 and the tamper-evident tab 96 in the initial closed position. Thus, in this alternative embodiment of the invention, engagement of the locking pin 68 with the nozzle 60 or some other body (e.g., the tip of the closure, a valve retaining ring, a valve, etc.) pushes the locking pin 68 radially or laterally into the hole 94 to secure and cover the tamper-evident tab 96.

[0087] In yet another alternative embodiment of the invention, the closure 40 does not require any nozzle 60 or auxiliary components or structures, such that the closure body 54 is positioned solely on top of the container opening, allowing the container 44 to allow the locking pin 68 to pass through the hole 94 of the cap 56 into its locking configuration to cover and conceal the tamper-evident tab 96. However, this alternative embodiment of the closure 40 would not allow for the advantageous transport of the closure 40 to the bottling or filling machine, wherein the cap 56 is securely attached to the closure body 54 by the engagement of the locking pin 68 and the tamper-evident tab 96 to prevent the cap 56 from prematurely opening from its initial closed position. In this embodiment, the orifice 58 of the body 54 will be the dispensing orifice of the closure 40, and the top platform 58 may include an integral nozzle therein.

[0088] Various modifications and alterations to the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Exemplary embodiments and examples are provided by way of example only and are not intended to limit the widest scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A dispensing closure for dispensing a substance that can be stored inside a container, the dispensing closure comprising: A body for positioning at the opening of the container, the body having a platform including at least one orifice, the body having a skirt that hangs from the platform and has means for attaching the body to the container, the body having a locking pin extending therefrom, the locking pin having an initial configuration and a locking configuration that moves relative to the initial configuration; A nozzle, which is held within the body, defines an inlet orifice, a dispensing orifice, and a dispensing channel extending through the nozzle to accommodate the flow of material from the interior of the container through the nozzle, wherein, with the nozzle held within the body, the locking pin is positioned in the locking configuration. and A cap, connected to the body and movable between an initial closed position, an open position, and a subsequent closed position, wherein the initial closed position closes the dispensing orifice of the nozzle, the open position exposes the dispensing orifice of the nozzle, and the subsequent closed position returns from the open position and closes the dispensing orifice of the nozzle, the cap having an aperture and an tamper-evident tab, wherein in the initial closed position of the cap, a locking pin is positioned in a locking mechanism within the aperture, and the tamper-evident tab is held below the locking pin; and wherein in the subsequent closed position of the cap, the tamper-evident tab rotates laterally outward through the aperture to indicate evidence of tampering to the user of the dispensing closure.

2. The dispensing closure according to claim 1, wherein the locking pin is configured to rotate between the initial configuration and the locking configuration by retaining the nozzle within the body.

3. The dispensing closure according to claim 1, wherein the locking pin extends substantially parallel to the central axis of the body in the initial configuration; and the locking pin extends transversely to the central axis in the locking configuration.

4. The dispensing closure of claim 1, wherein the tamper-evident tab is configured to rotate into the hole in the cap by contacting the locking pin during the movement of the cap from the open position to the subsequent closed position.

5. The dispensing closure according to claim 1, wherein the tamper-evident tab defines a protrusion that engages with the locking pin when the cap is in the initial closed position.

6. The dispensing closure of claim 1, wherein the tamper-evident tab is configured to provide an auditory and / or tactile indication to the user of the closure when the cap moves from the initial closed position to the open position.

7. The dispensing closure according to claim 1, wherein the tamper-proof tab is connected to the cap by a non-fragile hinge.

8. The dispensing closure according to claim 1, wherein the locking pin is connected to the body by a non-fragile hinge.

9. The dispensing closure according to claim 1, combined with a container of a fluid substance, wherein the dispensing closure and the container of the fluid substance together define a package.

10. A dispensing closure for dispensing a substance capable of being stored inside a container, the dispensing closure comprising: A body for positioning at the opening of the container, the body having a platform including at least one orifice, the body having a skirt that hangs from the platform and has means for attaching the body to the container, the body having a locking pin extending therefrom, the locking pin having an initial configuration and a locking configuration, the locking configuration moving relative to the initial configuration when engaged by a part of the container; A cap, connected to the body and movable between an initial closed position, an open position, and a subsequent closed position, the initial closed position blocking at least one orifice of the body, the open position exposing at least one orifice of the body, and the subsequent closed position returning from the open position and blocking at least one orifice of the body, the cap having an orifice and an tamper-evident tab, wherein in the initial closed position of the cap, a locking pin is positioned in a locking mechanism within the orifice, and the tamper-evident tab is held below the locking pin; and wherein in the subsequent closed position of the cap, the tamper-evident tab rotates laterally outward through the orifice to indicate evidence of tampering to the user of the closure.

11. The dispensing closure of claim 10, combined with a container of a fluid substance, wherein the dispensing closure and the container of the fluid substance together define a package.

12. A method for manufacturing a dispensing closure for dispensing a substance capable of being stored inside a container, the method comprising the steps of: A body is obtained for positioning at the opening of the container, the body having a platform including at least one orifice, the body having a skirt that hangs from the platform and has means for attaching the body to the container, the body having a locking pin extending therefrom, the locking pin having an initial configuration and a locking configuration that moves relative to the initial configuration, the body having a cap that is connected to the body and is movable between an initial closed position, an open position and a subsequent closed position returning from the open position, the cap having a hole and a tamper-evident tab; A nozzle is obtained, the nozzle defining an inlet orifice, a dispensing orifice, and a dispensing channel, the dispensing channel extending through the nozzle to accommodate the flow of material through the nozzle; as well as With the cap in the initial closed position, the nozzle is inserted into the body through the orifice, thereby moving the locking pin into the locking mechanism within the orifice, and the tamper-evident tab is held below the locking pin.

13. A method for opening a package, the method comprising the following steps: Obtain a package comprising a container and a dispensing closure disposed on the container, the dispensing closure having A) A body positioned at the opening of the container, the body having a platform including at least one orifice, the body having a skirt that hangs from the platform and has means for attaching the body to the container, the body having a locking pin extending therefrom, the locking pin having an initial configuration and a locking configuration that moves relative to the initial configuration; B) A nozzle, held within the body, defining an inlet orifice, a dispensing orifice, and a dispensing channel extending through the nozzle to accommodate the flow of material from the interior of the container through the nozzle, wherein, with the nozzle held within the body, the locking pin is positioned in the locking configuration. and C) A cap connected to the body and movable between an initial closed position, an open position, and a subsequent closed position, the initial closed position blocking the nozzle's distribution orifice, the open position exposing the nozzle's distribution orifice, and the subsequent closed position returning from the open position and blocking the nozzle's distribution orifice, the cap having an orifice and a tamper-evident tab, wherein in the initial closed position of the cap, the locking pin is positioned in the locking mechanism within the orifice, and the tamper-evident tab is held below the locking pin; Move the cap from the initial closed position to the open position; as well as The cap is moved from the open position to the subsequent closed position, wherein the tamper-evident tab is rotated laterally outward into the hole by contacting the locking pin to indicate evidence of tampering to the user of the closure.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein during the step of moving the cap from the initial closed position to the open position, the tamper-evident tab provides an auditory and / or tactile indication to the user.

15. A dispensing closure (40) for dispensing a substance capable of being stored inside a container (44), the dispensing closure (40) comprising: A body (54) for positioning at an opening (46) of the container (44), the body (54) having a platform (58) including at least one orifice (61), the body having a skirt (62) hanging from the platform (58) and having means (63) for attaching the body (54) to the container (44), the body (54) having a locking pin (68) extending therefrom, the locking pin (68) having an initial configuration and a locking configuration that moves relative to the initial configuration; A nozzle (60) is held within the body (54) and defines an inlet orifice (70), a dispensing orifice (72), and a dispensing channel (76) extending through the nozzle (60) to accommodate the flow of material from the interior of the container (44) through the nozzle (60), wherein, with the nozzle (60) held within the body (54), the locking pin (68) is positioned in the locking configuration; and A cap (56) is connected to the body (54) and is movable between an initial closed position, an open position, and a subsequent closed position, wherein the initial closed position closes the dispensing orifice (72) of the nozzle (60), the open position exposes the dispensing orifice (72) of the nozzle (60), and the subsequent closed position returns from the open position and closes the dispensing orifice (72) of the nozzle (60). The cap (56) has a hole (94) and an tamper-evident tab (96), wherein in the initial closed position of the cap (56), a locking pin (68) is positioned in a locking configuration within the hole (94), and the tamper-evident tab (96) is held below the locking pin (68); and wherein in the subsequent closed position of the cap (56), the tamper-evident tab (96) rotates laterally outward through the hole (94) to indicate evidence of tampering to the user of the dispensing closure (40).

16. The dispensing closure (40) according to claim 15, wherein the locking pin (68) is configured to rotate between the initial configuration and the locking configuration by holding the nozzle (60) within the body (54).

17. The distribution closure (40) according to any one of claims 15 to 16, wherein the locking pin (68) extends substantially parallel to the central axis (45) of the body (54) in the initial configuration; and the locking pin (68) extends transversely to the central axis (45) in the locking configuration.

18. The dispensing closure (40) according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the tamper-proof tab (96) is configured to rotate into the hole (94) in the cover (56) by contacting the locking pin (68) during the movement of the cover (56) from the open position to the subsequent closed position.

19. The dispensing closure (40) according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the tamper-proof tab (96) defines a protrusion (99) that engages the locking pin (68) when the cover (56) is in the initial closed position.

20. The dispensing closure (40) according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the tamper-evident tab (96) is configured to provide an auditory and / or tactile indication to the user of the closure (40) when the cap (56) moves from the initial closed position to the open position.

21. The dispensing closure (40) according to any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein the tamper-proof tab (96) is connected to the cap (56) by a non-fragile hinge (98).

22. The dispensing closure (40) according to any one of claims 15 to 21, wherein the locking pin (68) is connected to the body (54) by a non-fragile hinge (69).

23. A dispensing closure (40) according to any one of claims 15 to 22, combined with a container (44) of a fluid substance, the dispensing closure (40) and the container (44) of the fluid substance together defining a package.

24. A dispensing closure (40) for dispensing a substance capable of being stored inside a container (44), the dispensing closure (40) comprising: A body (54) for positioning at an opening (46) of the container (44), the body (54) having a platform (58) including at least one orifice (61), the body (54) having a skirt (62) that hangs from the platform (58) and has means (63) for attaching the body (54) to the container (44), the body (54) having a locking pin (68) extending therefrom, the locking pin (68) having an initial configuration and a locking configuration, the locking configuration moving relative to the initial configuration when engaged by a portion of the container (44); A cover (56) is attached to the body (54) and is movable between an initial closed position, an open position, and a subsequent closed position, the initial closed position blocking at least one orifice (61) of the body (54), the open position exposing at least one orifice (61) of the body (54), and the subsequent closed position returning from the open position and blocking at least one orifice (61) of the body (54), the cover (56) having an orifice (94) and a tamper-evident tab (96), wherein in the initial closed position of the cover (56), a locking pin (68) is positioned in the locking configuration within the orifice (94), and the tamper-evident tab (96) is held below the locking pin (68); and wherein in the subsequent closed position of the cover (56), the tamper-evident tab (94) rotates laterally outward through the orifice (94) to indicate evidence of tampering to the user of the closure (40).

25. The dispensing closure according to claim 10, combined with a container (44) of a fluid substance, wherein the dispensing closure (40) and the container (44) of the fluid substance together define a package.

26. A method for manufacturing a dispensing closure (40) according to any one of claims 15 to 22 for dispensing a substance capable of being stored inside a container (44), the method comprising the steps of: A body (54) is obtained for positioning at an opening (46) of the container (44), the body (54) having a platform (58) including at least one orifice (61), the body (54) having a skirt (62) that hangs from the platform (58) and has means (63) for attaching the body (54) to the container (44), the body (54) having a locking pin (68) extending therefrom, the locking pin (68) having an initial configuration and a locking configuration that moves relative to the initial configuration, the body (54) having a cap (56) that is connected to the body and is movable between an initial closed position, an open position and a subsequent closed position returning from the open position, the cap (56) having an orifice (94) and a tamper-evident tab (96). A nozzle (60) is obtained, the nozzle defining an inlet orifice (70), a dispensing orifice (72) and a dispensing channel (76), the dispensing channel extending through the nozzle (60) to accommodate the flow of material through the nozzle (60); as well as With the cap (56) in the initial closed position, the nozzle (60) is inserted into the body (54) through the orifice (61), thereby moving the locking pin (68) into the locking structure within the hole (94), and the tamper-evident tab (96) is held below the locking pin (68).

27. A method for opening a package comprising a dispensing closure (40) according to any one of claims 15 to 22, the method comprising the steps of: Obtain a package comprising a container (44) and a dispensing closure (40) disposed on the container (44), the dispensing closure (44) having A) A body (54) positioned at the opening of the container (44), the body (56) having a platform (58) including at least one orifice (61), the body (54) having a skirt (62) hanging from the platform (58) and having means (63) for attaching the body (54) to the container (44), the body (54) having a locking pin (68) extending therefrom, the locking pin (68) having an initial configuration and a locking configuration that moves relative to the initial configuration; B) A nozzle (60) held within the body (54) defining an inlet orifice (70), a dispensing orifice (72), and a dispensing channel (76) extending through the nozzle (60) to accommodate the flow of material from the interior of the container (44) through the nozzle (60), wherein, with the nozzle (60) held within the body (54), the locking pin (68) is positioned in the locking configuration; and C) A cap (56) is connected to the body (54) and is movable between an initial closed position, an open position and a subsequent closed position, wherein the initial closed position closes the dispensing orifice (72) of the nozzle (60), the open position exposes the dispensing orifice (72) of the nozzle (60), and the subsequent closed position returns from the open position and closes the dispensing orifice (72) of the nozzle (60), the cap (56) having a hole (94) and a tamper-evident tab (96), wherein in the initial closed position of the cap (56), the locking pin (68) is positioned in the locking configuration within the hole (94), and the tamper-evident tab (96) is held below the locking pin (68); Move the cap (56) from the initial closed position to the open position; and The cap (56) is moved from the open position to the subsequent closed position, wherein the tamper-proof tab (96) is rotated laterally outward into the hole (94) by contacting the locking pin (68) to indicate evidence of tampering to the user of the closure (40).

28. The method according to claim 27, wherein during the step of moving the cap (56) from the initial closed position to the open position, the tamper-evident tab (96) provides an auditory and / or tactile indication to the user.

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