Recyclable cap and recyclable cap and container assembly

Abstract

The present invention relates to a recyclable metal cap 1, as well as the container 2 and cap assembly that includes it, preferably intended for perfumery, cosmetic and similar containers. The cap of the invention comprises one or more sets of micro-inserts 3 of polymeric material that form a contact between cap and a collar 4 of the container, preferably metallic, avoiding frictional scratches between both parts and being configured as scratch-protection elements, as well as being configured to effect the coupling in the closure area to provide a pleasant feeling in use and improve consumer experience.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a recyclable cap for containers for perfumery, cosmetics and the like. More particularly, it relates to a cap of the type of external protection covers that are coupled to these containers by press-on fitting at the outlet area of the product contained therein, in particular at the area having a metal collar.

[0002] The present invention also relates to the container for perfumery, cosmetics and the like that includes the recyclable cap of the invention, coupled, in particular, at the area having the metal collar. More particularly, it relates to an assembly wherein the metal cap of the cover type is press-on fitted to these containers at the outlet zone of the product contained therein, in particular at the zone of the container having a metal ring or collar.Background of the invention

[0003] Both sample and the original products use caps of the cover type for external protection that must convey the elegance and quality of the product contained in the container. As is known, many perfumery and cosmetic products are frequently associated, for marketing purposes, with another product, in particular a sample product, which serves as an advertising medium.

[0004] In the prior art there are a variety of caps for perfume flasks or bottles, usually of glass, intended to contain perfumery, cosmetic and similar products, wherein the cap covers the outlet area of the product contained in the container. This liquid outlet area comprises a product delivery or dosing system that is coupled to the container by means of a ring or collar integral with the container. The cap is conventionally coupled on this ring or collar of the delivery or dosing system or, alternatively, on the body of the container such as, for example, containers in which the cap gives an impression of continuity to the geometry of the body of the container in said liquid outlet zone.

[0005] There are different material solutions for such external protection caps. A conventionally chosen option is to use caps of thermoplastic material, which has a greater flexibility and less friction with the material on which it closes which, in most cases, are metal or glass containers and therefore have less risk of scratching the usually metallic collar after continued use.

[0006] On the other hand, there are also external protection caps of materials with little or no deformation such as wood, metal or glass, which include a sleeve of plastic material sealed, fixed or integral with the cap. The problem with these caps, for example metal, with a plastic cover is that they are not suitable for recycling, since the two parts, the cover and the external sheath, are usually solidly joined and, therefore, cannot be recycled either as plastic or as metal.

[0007] Therefore, it is also desirable to provide a cap for perfumery, cosmetic and similar containers that also fits the container in a safe and reliable manner for the user and whose continued use does not result in inadvertent detachment of the cap, usually due to deformations and / or widening of the cap and, consequently, loss of pressure in the coupling fit.

[0008] In addition, in many cases such containers are not refillable, so they still generate a greater volume of waste that is difficult to recycle because they are basically not reusable. It is therefore desirable to provide a cap for perfumery, cosmetic and similar containers that is fully recyclable.

[0009] There is therefore a need to provide a cap of the cover type for perfumery, cosmetic and similar containers that is recyclable and does not scratch the container, in particular the container collar in its continued use, which is also safe and reliable for the user without unintentional detachments. Especially for couplings of two metal parts, it is also desirable to provide the user with a pleasant feeling during its use.

[0010] In addition to the above, it is also known in the prior art that, in order to perform the coupling between the two parts, that of the cap and that of the ring or collar of the container, a press-on closure is chosen. This closure is usually designed to perform a fitting effect pleasant to the touch and with a tactile and sound effect, commonly exemplified as a "click" closure.

[0011] This type of fitting, especially valued in certain types of containers of the perfumery type, for example, is made by the coupling of a projection located on the inside of the cap in a notch located on the ring or collar of the container.

[0012] In all the above cases, the inserts and / or the covers are difficult, if not impossible, to separate from the cap once the product contained in the container has been exhausted, which makes it extremely difficult to recycle this type of caps.

[0013] Finally, it is desirable to provide a plug with an additional manufacturing advantage, which can be manufactured at high speed or with high volumes and high reproducibility in all caps.

[0014] Document WO2022 / 129815 A1 discloses a recyclable metal cap assembly for a container according to the preamble of claim 1.Description of the invention

[0015] The aim of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned problem.

[0016] By way of clarification, when it is indicated herein that the container incorporates a delivery / dosing system, this delivery / dosing system is to be understood as any element / device for the outlet of the product contained in the container in dosed, sprayed, aerosolised form, or other conventional delivery system, as well as the absence thereof providing a free outlet.

[0017] Also, by way of clarification, in the present invention the term "polymeric material" is understood to mean a substance composed of large molecules, or macromolecules, formed by the covalent bonding of one or more single units called monomers, which may or may not be obtained synthetically. Although the use is acceptable for the present invention, as will be indicated below, of any composition of polymeric material or other type of material that allows the formation of sets of micro-inserts, their geometric stability and stable position in the placement area and the properties associated with their function such as a certain flexibility and minimal possibility of scratching of the metals, their composition preferably consists in, but is not limited to, epoxy resins, which allow a large number of materials to be bonded, including some plastics, and can be made rigid or flexible, transparent or coloured, quick or slow drying. As will be indicated later, the composition of the micro-inserts may vary with the use of other materials that meet the aforementioned requirements.

[0018] In this regard, by polymeric material is meant any synthetic polymer. Epoxy resins, also called polyepoxides, which are a class of reactive polymers and prepolymers containing epoxide groups are preferred. Epoxy resins are a type of adhesives known as structural or engineering adhesives. They allow bonding a large number of materials, including some plastics, and can be made rigid or flexible, transparent or coloured, fast or slow drying. The preferred epoxy resins are the product of a reaction between epichlorohydrin and bisphenol A.

[0019] According to a first aspect of the invention, the object of the present invention is a recyclable cap of the metal cover type for external protection that solves all the problems related to the recycling of this type of elements for containers, wherein this cap comprises a body or housing with an inner cavity configured to allow the coupling of this cap in a container, by press-on fitting by complementarity of the geometry of the two parts configured to be coupled.

[0020] The invention is advantageously based on the fact that the cap comprises in its inner cavity one or more sets of micro-inserts of polymeric material fixed to the coupling face of the inner cavity of the cap assembly and positioned uniformly distributed.

[0021] The preferred use and where the technical effect achieved with the cap for containers of the invention is more relevant, is in perfumery, cosmetic and similar containers, where its specifically designed construction is reliable and safe in operation so that the user can couple and uncouple it by pressure at will and it does not unintentionally disengage or detach from the container.

[0022] It is to be noted that the cap can have any external shape, without this affecting the indicated inventive concept. The sector where the present invention is most relevant, that of perfumery, cosmetic and similar containers, is given to the unique creation of original shapes, whereby the external shape can be of multiple types, maintaining the internal coupling forms of the cap to the container, as indicated in the different embodiments that will be described herein.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, all the sets of micro-inserts installed in the cap have a proportion equal to or less than 5% by weight with respect to the weight of the cap assembly as a whole, and even more preferably, the sets of micro-inserts have a proportion equal to or less than 3% by weight with respect to the weight of the cap assembly as a whole.

[0024] These configurations of the ratio formed by the sets of micro-inserts with respect to the cap allow to achieve a cap that is recyclable as a metal product, due to its minimum content in materials other than metal, which improves the sustainability of the cap as waste, minimises the number of parts used, while providing a pleasant feeling during its use and improving consumer experience.

[0025] In one embodiment of the invention, the cap comprises a body or a housing and consists of a single piece.

[0026] In one possible embodiment the cap of the invention may have an inner cavity of the cap with a circular shaped cross-sectional configuration.

[0027] In another possible alternative embodiment, the cap of the invention may have an inner cavity with a cross sectional configuration of a polygonal shape, preferably a triangular cross section.

[0028] In another different embodiment of the invention, the cap comprises a metal inner sleeve integrally fixed with the body or housing of the cap, which forms the metal cap assembly, so that the inner cavity of the cap is the inner cavity of the sleeve and the coupling face is that of the inner cavity of the sleeve, the cap being configured in two pieces.

[0029] In this two-piece embodiment, the cap of the invention may have an inner cavity of the sleeve with a substantially circular cross-section that includes rib-like protrusions that are closer to the projection of the container coupling geometries, with the micro-inserts positioned uniformly distributed over these protrusions. Alternatively, in this two-piece embodiment, the cap of the invention may have an inner cavity of the sleeve with a cross-section configuration in a polygonal shape, preferably a triangular cross-section.

[0030] By way of clarification, the cross-section is to be understood as the section perpendicular to the axis corresponding to the direction of introduction of the cap into the collar corresponding to the delivery / dosing system.

[0031] In these embodiments with the cap configured in two parts, preferably these two parts, the body or casing and the sleeve, are both made from the same metallic material.

[0032] With regard to this embodiment with a two-piece configuration of the cap or the previous one with a one-piece configuration, the metallic materials used are preferably aluminium or steel. Alternatively, the materials used may be another type of metal chosen for the design of the cap.

[0033] Also, with respect to any of the above embodiments, and optionally but preferably, each set of micro-inserts comprises a plurality of micro-inserts and each of the plurality of micro-inserts is positioned with respect to each other in a same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap on the container. Preferably, a set of micro-inserts comprises a minimum of three micro-inserts.

[0034] With respect to any of the above embodiments, optionally but preferably each of these micro-inserts individually has a substantially spherical shape. Also, optionally and in relation to any of the above embodiments, two or more sets of these micro-inserts are substantially elongated in shape.

[0035] Also, preferably, two or more sets of multiple micro-inserts are positioned with each set following a direction parallel to the coupling axis of the cap on the container.

[0036] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a recyclable cap for perfumery products, cosmetics and the like which is very competitive from a merely economic point of view.

[0037] The one or more sets of micro-inserts of polymeric material, integral with the coupling face of the inner cavity of the single-piece or two-piece cap assembly, are positioned uniformly distributed using a system of application of these micro-inserts that can be scaled at an industrial level and with a high reproducibility of the position of these micro-inserts in all caps.

[0038] According to a possible embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a dispenser made from the polymeric material of these micro-inserts in a semi-fluid state connected to a jetting valve adjustable in height and application angle. Moreover, the metal cap is held by a rotating bracket. The entire system can be electronically synchronised. The system allows a controlled contribution of the volume and position of the polymeric material for the micro-insert on the inner face of the metal cap at a high speed of delivery of polymeric material and reproducibility in all the caps.

[0039] As indicated above, the amount of polymeric material is minimal and less than 10%, preferably equal to or less than 5%, even more preferably equal to or less than 3% by weight with respect to the total weight of the cap assembly.

[0040] In this regard, and according to one possible embodiment of the invention complementary to any of the previous embodiments, the inner cavity has a polygonal cross-section with the micro-inserts positioned at least at the points corresponding to the points of the coupling edges of the inner cavity that are closest to the projection of the coupling geometry of the container. Specifically to the above, the inner cavity may have a triangular section with three micro-inserts positioned one at each of the edges of this inner cavity and at the midpoint of each edge.

[0041] Also, according to another possible embodiment of the invention complementary to any of the previous embodiments, each of the micro-inserts is positioned equidistant from one another and / or positioned consecutively with respect to one another.

[0042] It is necessary to clarify that, although the greatest utility and benefits are obtained in the use of this configuration of one or more sets of micro-inserts in a press-on coupling by longitudinal displacement of the cap on the container, the one made by the user applying pressure in a rotary movement of the cap on the container, making a complementary geometric coupling between both parts in the form of threading and pressure in a rotary direction, should be considered as a possible alternative and as an analogous closure system.

[0043] In this alternative case, and analogously to what is indicated for a longitudinal closure, the sets of micro-inserts will be positioned, at least, at the points of the threads and / or grooves of the threading of the cap that can contact the complementary threading of the container, also avoiding scratching between said parts in this analogous closure, which does not alter the configuration or basic features of the invention with respect to the rest of embodiments.

[0044] It is to be noted that, as in the above-mentioned embodiments, it is preferable to consider that the micro-inserts be formed at least by an accumulation of polymeric material forming a protrusion emerging from its fixed position on the coupling face of the inner cavity of the cap towards the central axis of the coupling direction of the cap on the container. Also, preferably, these micro-inserts have a composition mostly comprising an adhesive of the epoxy resin, modified epoxy acrylate resin or modified acrylate type.

[0045] Alternatively, the micro-inserts can be made of other types of polymers, synthetic or not, as well as other materials that allow the formation of sets of micro-inserts and their geometric stability and stable position in the placement area and the properties associated with their function, such as a certain flexibility and minimal possibility of scratching of metals.

[0046] In accordance with the object of the invention, and according to a second aspect thereof, the present invention is based on a recyclable container and metal cap assembly defined in the invention coupled to the container in the outlet zone of the product contained in this container. The container is preferably of the type used in perfumery, cosmetics and the like. In particular, the container has a ring or collar positioned at the outlet area of the product contained therein and the recyclable cap is coupled to this preferably metallic collar.

[0047] Advantageously, the coupling of this cap to the container by a press-on fit by the complementarity of the geometry of the metal parts is effected without the creation of scratches by friction in the coupling, nor deformation or widening of the cap assembly. In addition to giving a pleasant feeling in its use, in particular with improved sliding sensation between the two metal parts and improving the consumer experience, creating a sound at the time of closing / coupling by the elastic variation of the section of the cap with the micro-inserts in its closing point.

[0048] This cap comprises in its inner cavity elements for adjusting the closure, configured to allow the coupling of the cap to a container in an outlet area of the contents of the container itself, either a ring or collar for fixing the supply or dosing system or a part of the body of the container associated with this outlet area, wherein this coupling is carried out by a press-on fit by complementarity of the geometry of both parts.

[0049] By way of clarification, when it is indicated herein that the container incorporates a delivery / dosing system, this delivery / dosing system is to be understood as any element / device for the outlet of the product contained in the container in dosed, sprayed, aerosolised form, or other conventional delivery system, as well as the absence thereof providing a free outlet.

[0050] Preferably for the present container and metal cap assembly, the cap comprises in its inner cavity one or more sets of micro-inserts as described in the first aspect of the invention, wherein said sets of micro-inserts are integral with the coupling face of the inner cavity of the cap and configured so that they are positioned at the point corresponding to a height in the cap, understood as the distance from the mouth of the cap, which determines the coupling of these sets of micro-inserts on the outlet area of the contents of the container, at a closing point on this outlet area.

[0051] Also, preferably, each set of micro-inserts has a configuration such that the free passage section that they leave between them in the inner cavity is slightly smaller than the section occupied by a zone prior to the closure point of the outlet zone of the contents of the container. It is also characteristic of the invention that the zone of the cap containing the one or more sets of micro-inserts is configured to elastically deform and overlap this previous zone.

[0052] In this regard, the fixing ring or collar of the supply / dosing system must be understood as the element, usually cylindrical and metallic although it can be of other geometries and materials, which integrally joins said supply / dosing system of the contained product to the container, wherein the geometric shape of the part thereof with a larger diameter or section is complementary to the shape of the cavity of the cap.

[0053] In the same way and also as a possible coupling area of the cap, a part of the body of the container associated with this outlet area must be provided, where the coupling for closing the cap is made.

[0054] Also, by way of clarification, the position within the coupling path of the cap in the liquid outlet zone must be taken as the closing point of the cap on the container, in which it is determined that the cap performs its maximum coupling displacement on the container, either because it reaches a physical stop created for this purpose or because it stops against the container itself.

[0055] With this configuration, it is possible to have a metal container and cap assembly wherein the cap, as can be seen in the first aspect of the invention, is suitable for recycling since it is mostly made of metal and wherein the elements of the cap that achieve a press fit closure with a clicking coupling are formed by small micro-insertions, micro-inserts, without having to machine the inner part of the cap.

[0056] The desired effect on the closing sensation is generated thanks to the fact that the one or more sets of micro-inserts of the cap reduce the free section of the inner cavity in such a way as to allow the positioning and introduction of the cap in the area of the delivery / dosing system. In this way, when the position of these sets of micro-inserts reaches the point corresponding to the height where the closure point is located on the outlet area for the contents of the container, the area of the cap where these sets of micro-inserts are located will deform elastically to be able to adapt to this area.

[0057] According to a possible embodiment of the invention, the closing point is a point of the outlet zone of the container contents in a surface having a substantially continuous section in the previous zone without slits, protrusions or recesses associated with the coupling point of the sets of micro-inserts of the cap located at the start of this previous zone having a larger section than the free passage section of the cap.

[0058] With this configuration the encounter between the previous zone of the outlet zone of the contents of the container, either of the ring or collar or of the coupling zone on the body of the container itself, and the sets of micro-inserts of the cap, results in the elastic deformation and the tactile and auditory clicking effect, providing a pleasant feeling during its use and improving consumer experience.

[0059] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the closure point is a recess in the outlet area of the contents located posteriorly, according to the direction of introduction of the cap, with respect to a previous area with a larger section than the free passage section of the cap, wherein the cap and its sets of micro-inserts are configured to engage said recess, the cap being retained in this recess by the elastic recovery of its geometry.

[0060] According to this embodiment, at the point where the cap reaches its closed position on the container, this point coincides with a recess in the section, either of the ring or collar or the coupling area on the body of the container itself, preceded by a previous area with an occupied section larger than the free passage section of the cap with its sets of micro-inserts, which causes the area of the sets of micro-inserts, once it reaches this recess, to quickly recover its original shape and produce that final coupling tactile effect and even a slight sound upon the coupling of the micro-inserts on said recess.

[0061] By way of clarification, the recess in either the ring or collar or in the coupling zone on the body of the container itself, should be understood as a notch of smaller section than the previous zone or a zone previously flanked by an area of greater radius than the rest of the ring or collar or the coupling zone on the body of the container itself.

[0062] As indicated in the first aspect of the invention, the multiple micro-inserts forming each set of micro-inserts are formed by at least one accumulation of material forming a protrusion emerging from its fixed position on the coupling face of the inner cavity of the cap towards the central axis of the coupling direction of the cap on the container.

[0063] With the above-described composition of the micro-inserts, when the ring or collar or the coupling zone on the container body itself is made of metallic material, it is possible to prevent the scratching of the metallic zones when the plug is inserted to fit into the closure point.

[0064] Preferably, for any previous embodiment, each set of micro-inserts comprises multiple micro-inserts configured to form a geometry such as: a ball cap assembly; or a strip-like elongate assembly; or a discontinuous set of micro-inserts positioned with respect to each other substantially in the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap on the container.

[0065] These geometric forms of sets of micro-inserts allow to perform the described function with the technical effect described above.

[0066] Both in the single-piece embodiment and in the embodiment of the cap forming a housing and sleeve assembly, the inner cavity of the cap may include auxiliary interference protection elements between the cap and the collar in the interaction of the walls of said inner cavity of the cap in its coupling at the outlet area for the contents of the container by means of: protuberances by way of longitudinal ribs; or auxiliary assemblies of micro-inserts positioned in said inner cavity.

[0067] Preferably, as indicated in the first aspect of the invention, the sum of the sets of micro-inserts configured for coupling at the closure point of the outlet zone of the contents of the container, as well as the auxiliary sets of micro-inserts or longitudinal rib-like protrusions, have a polymeric composition in a proportion equal to or less than 5% by weight with respect to the weight of the cap assembly.

[0068] This allows to have in the same cap a set of elements that, in addition to improving the feeling of use and improving the consumer experience in the closure, also avoids possible scratches when inserting the cap in a container with a ring or collar or coupling area on the body of the container which is of metallic material susceptible to being scratched with the also metallic cap.

[0069] According to another possible embodiment of the invention, on the inner face of the cap there are two or more sets of micro-inserts, where each set of micro-inserts is positioned with respect to each other in the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap on the container and also in the position corresponding to the determined point of coupling of these sets of micro-inserts in the closure point on the outlet zone of the contents of the container, so that said sets of micro-inserts act both as auxiliary elements for protection against scratching as well as elements of the coupling in the closure zone.

[0070] In this way it is advantageously achieved to have the two effects that improve the feeling in use and the consumer experience in the closure, using the same sets of micro-inserts located at the specific point corresponding to the position of closed cap at the height at which the notch of the ring or collar is arranged.Description of the drawings

[0071] To complement the description being made herein, and for the purpose of aiding in a better understanding of the characteristics of the invention, a set of drawings of a preferred embodiment is attached as an integral part of said description wherein, by way of illustration and not limitation, the following has been represented: Figure 1 shows two perspective views (A, B), an exploded view (A) showing the cap assembly configured to be coupled to the collar provided on the container by a press-on fit by the complementarity of the geometry of the two parts; and a perspective view (B) of the container including the coupled cap assembly of the invention. Figure 2 shows an embodiment of the cap of the invention in a single piece with two different configurations (A, B) in elevation and sectional views; (A) shows a cross-sectional view with a circular shape and (B) shows a cross-sectional view with a triangular shape having a set of three uniformly positioned micro-inserts. Figure 3 shows another different and alternative embodiment to that of figure 2 of the cap of the invention with two parts, body or housing and sleeve, and with two different configurations (A, B) in elevation and profile views; (A) shows a cross-sectional view with a substantially circular shape including rib-like protrusions; and (B) shows a cross-sectional view with the inner cavity of the sleeve having a triangular shape and with a set of three micro-inserts positioned uniformly. Figure 4 illustrates an embodiment of the cap and container assembly not coupled together by a closing end point. Figure 5 illustrates an elevation view of the cap and container assembly not coupled to each other with a coupling of the cap on the body of the container as a continuity of the diameter of the body itself.

[0072] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the recyclable cap, of the cover type for external protection, for containers of perfumery products and the like and the container and cap assembly including it, which have been illustrated in the drawings.Detailed description of the invention

[0073] In greater detail and according to one of the preferred embodiments of the invention, as shown in the figures, a recyclable cap (1) of metal, aluminium or steel is provided for containers (2), wherein this cap comprises a body or housing (11) with an inner cavity configured to allow the coupling of this cap (1) in a container (2) at its product outlet area, by press-on fitting by the complementarity of the geometry of the two parts configured to be coupled.

[0074] As will be seen in the following embodiments, the cap (1) comprises in its inner cavity one or more sets of micro-inserts (3) made from polymeric material integral with the coupling face of the inner cavity of the plug assembly and positioned uniformly distributed, wherein preferably the amount of total polymeric material among all the micro-inserts is equal to or less than 5%, and even equal to or less than 3%, by weight with respect to the weight of the assembly of the aluminium or steel cap (1), in the present embodiment, although alternatively other metals can be used.

[0075] Advantageously, the recyclable cap for perfumery, cosmetic and similar containers of the invention is easily recyclable due to the reduced amount of polymeric material integral to the coupling face with respect to the total weight of the cap assembly (1), which also avoids scratches on the parts of the container configured to be coupled by a press-on fit due to the complementarity of their geometry. The recyclable cap (1) further provides an additional useful function of elegance and quality after continued use of the recyclable cap of the invention in a container (2) to which it is attached because scratches on the collar (4) provided on the container (2) are avoided.

[0076] The micro-inserts (3), as indicated by the term "micro", have a small size and their weight does not exceed 10% with respect to the total weight of the cap assembly (1) although, as indicated, the greatest benefit is obtained with percentages by weight with respect to the assembly of less than 5% and, especially, less than 3%. Typically, for a hemispherical micro-insert with a height of about 2 mm and an epoxy resin composition, the weight per micro-insert would be about 4 mg.

[0077] In an embodiment of the present invention, the cap assembly (1) has a single-piece (11). Two different configurations are provided for the single-piece embodiment (1, 11).

[0078] In the first configuration, the cap assembly (1) has an inner cavity with a circular-shaped cross-section (Figure 2A) and a set of three micro-inserts (3) of polymeric material integral with the coupling face of the inner cavity of the cap assembly (1) and positioned uniformly distributed. Each of the multiple micro-inserts (3) is positioned with respect to each other on a same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap (1) on the container (2) (Figure 2A).

[0079] In a second configuration, the cap assembly (1) has an inner cavity with a polygonal cross-section, in this case a triangular section (Figure 2B) and three micro-inserts (3) of polymeric material integral with the coupling face of the inner cavity of the cap assembly (1), one on each of the edges of this inner cavity of triangular section and at the midpoint of each edge, positioned uniformly distributed, equidistant from each other.

[0080] According to this second configuration, in alternative cases of polymeric cross-sections of more sides, the micro-inserts (3) are positioned, at least, at the points corresponding to the points of each of the coupling edges of the inner cavity that are closest to the projection of the coupling geometry of the container.

[0081] The micro-inserts (3) of this embodiment, as well as of subsequent embodiments, are preferably substantially spherical or hemispherical in shape, with a height from the wall where it is fixed towards the inside of the cap cavity of about 2 mm.

[0082] In another different embodiment, the cap assembly (1) has two parts, a body or casing (11) and a sleeve (12), both made from the same metallic material. In this embodiment, the cap (1) comprises a metal inner sleeve (12) integral with the body or housing (11) of the cap, which forms the assembly of the metal cap, so that the inner cavity of the cap (11) is the inner cavity of the sleeve (12) and the coupling face is that of the inner cavity of the sleeve (12).

[0083] Advantageously, the presence of two pieces (11,12) provides greater solidity to the body or housing (11) of the cap (1).

[0084] Therefore, in this embodiment a cap (1) is provided for perfumery, cosmetic and similar containers (2) of even greater solidity and without deformations and / or widenings of the cap, maintaining the press-on fit by coupling to the container (2) in a safe and reliable manner for the user.

[0085] Two different configurations are provided for the two-piece embodiment (11, 12).

[0086] In the first configuration, the cap assembly (1) with two-pieces (11, 12) has an inner cavity with a substantially circular cross-section that includes rib-like protrusions (13) on the sleeve (12), which are closer to the projection of the container coupling geometries (Figure 3A) and with the micro-inserts (3) of polymeric material integrally joined to the coupling face of the inner cavity of the cap assembly (1) and positioned uniformly distributed on these protrusions (13). These protrusions (13) can be, by way of example, grooves stamped on the outer face of the metal sleeve (12) or formed in the embossing of the sleeve (12) itself, to create these ribs without adding material.

[0087] In the first configuration, each set of micro-inserts comprises a plurality of micro-inserts (3) and each of the plurality of micro-inserts (3) is positioned relative to each other on a same plane transverse to the axis of coupling of the cap (1) on the container (2) (Figure 3A).

[0088] In a second configuration, the cap assembly (1) has an inner cavity with a polygonal cross-section, in this case with a triangular section (Figure 3B) and with three sets of micro-inserts (3) of polymeric material integral with the coupling face of the inner cavity of the cap assembly (1) and positioned uniformly distributed.

[0089] In the second configuration, the micro-inserts (3) are positioned at least at the points corresponding to the points of the coupling edges of the inner cavity that are closest to the projection of the geometry of the container. In the second preferable configuration with a triangular section (Figure 2B), there is a minimum of three micro-inserts (3) positioned one on each of the edges of this triangular inner cavity and at the midpoint of each edge.

[0090] In both previous embodiments and in all the configurations described with the recyclable cap (1) and single-piece metal cap (11) or two-piece metal cap (11, 12), each set of micro-inserts can comprise multiple micro-inserts (3) and each of the multiple micro-inserts (3) be positioned with respect to each other on a same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap (1) on the container (2).

[0091] Preferably, a set of micro-inserts comprises a minimum of three micro-inserts (3) (Figures 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B).

[0092] Optionally, and in addition to the above, the cap assembly (1) may include two or more sets of multiple micro-inserts (3), and in this case, the two or more sets are each positioned in a direction parallel to the coupling axis of the cap (1) on the container (2). In another arrangement of these two or more sets of multiple micro-inserts (3), each of these micro-inserts (3) is positioned consecutively with respect to another, so that the micro-inserts (3) can have a slightly elongate shape. In another alternative arrangement, the micro-inserts (3) can be positioned equidistant from one another, each assembly following a direction parallel to the coupling axis of the cap (1) on the container (2).

[0093] The micro-inserts (3) are formed at least by an accumulation of polymeric material forming a protrusion that emerges from its fixed position on the coupling face of the inner cavity of the body or housing (11) or sleeve (12) of the cap (1) towards the central axis of the coupling direction of the cap (1) in the container (2). This protuberance, as stated, may have a substantially spherical shape, although other shapes are possible associated with the equipment that positions the micro-inserts (3) in their final location in the cavity of the cap (1).

[0094] The micro-inserts (3) of polymeric material include any type of synthetic polymer. Its composition mostly comprises an adhesive of the epoxy resin, modified epoxy acrylate resin or modified acrylate type.

[0095] The micro-inserts (3) as defined in the present invention allow coupling of the cap assembly (1) in a container (2) provided with a metal collar (4) in the area of the collar (4) without causing friction scratches after multiple actions of coupling and uncoupling the cap (1) from the container (2) in the collar (4). These coupling and uncoupling actions of the complementary geometries, as indicated above, must be understood as a longitudinal pressure insertion cap, such as an insertion cap with rotary pressure by screwing.

[0096] A further object of the invention is the container (2) comprising at least one recyclable cap (1) for containers as described above coupled to the container (2) in the outlet area of the product contained in this container.

[0097] The recyclable metal cap (1) of the invention is designed to be coupled to a container (2) provided with a collar (4) also from the same or different metal as the cap assembly (1) without causing scratches due to the continuous use of this type of containers.

[0098] With respect to a preferred embodiment of the container (20) and recyclable metal cap (1) assembly, and as shown in Figures 5 and 2A, there is provided a recyclable metal cap (1) that is configured to be coupled to a container (20) at the outlet zone of the product contained in said container (20).

[0099] The cap (1) comprises a single body (11) with an inner cavity (21), which in the present embodiment is circular in section. Alternatively, as can be seen in Figures 3A and 3B, the cap (10) can contain an inner part by way of a sleeve (12) and, as can be seen in Figures 2B and 3B, the shape of the cross-section of the inner cavity can be non-cylindrical. This inner cavity (21) must allow the entry of the cap (1) on the supply / dosing system (40), in this case a sprayer, and fit the geometry of the ring or collar (4) that joins the supply / dosing system (40) to the container (20), to perform a final closing coupling by press-on fitting of the cap (1) on said ring or collar (4).

[0100] The ring or collar (4) comprises a recess (22), or depression, with a radius or section smaller that at least a zone (24) previous to the recess (22) so that the cap can perform its secure and effective coupling and closure in said recess (22), which in the present embodiment will be considered as the closure point (P) of the cap (1) on the ring or collar (4).

[0101] Advantageously, the cap (1) comprises in its inner cavity (21) three sets of micro-inserts (3) positioned at the point (T) corresponding to the specified height, in the position corresponding to the closing point (P) of the cap (10) on the container (20), of coupling of these sets of micro-inserts (3) to the recess (22) of the ring or collar (4). Alternatively, one could have a more or fewer micro-insert sets (3), although this configuration is considered one of the most efficient as relates to the effect achieved and the minimization of micro-insert creation.

[0102] These sets of micro-inserts (3) are formed at least by an accumulation of polymeric material, according to the material used in the present preferred embodiment, forming a protrusion emerging from its fixed position on the coupling face of the inner cavity (21) of the cap (1) towards the central axis of the coupling direction of the cap (1) in the container (20).

[0103] The polymeric material used for the formation of these micro-inserts is of the epoxy resin type, and in this case, they form a spherical cap that protrudes from the wall of the inner cavity (21). Alternatively, they could form an elongate set in the form of an ellipse or strip, as well as a discrete set of micro-inserts in different possible orientations.

[0104] In the present embodiment, the sets of micro-inserts (3) have a proportion equal to or less than 3% by weight with respect to the weight of the set of the cap (1), although other proportions are possible, being preferably less than 5% by weight, in order to be able to consider the metal cap recyclable as metal.

[0105] Alternatively, these compositions of the micro-inserts can be replaced by compositions of other types of polymers, synthetic or not, or other materials that allow the formation of sets of micro-inserts, their geometric stability and their stable position in the placement zone and the properties associated with their function such as a certain flexibility and minimal possibility of scratching of the metals.

[0106] The micro-insert assemblies (3) have a size that leaves a free passage section (S) in the inner cavity (21), which is slightly smaller than the section occupied by the area (24) prior to the recess (22) of the ring or collar (25) of the container (20). In order to pass this larger-section body of the ring or collar (4), the cap (1) is elastically deformed and, once this prior area (24) is passed, the set of micro-inserts (3) is coupled in said recess (22) returning to its original geometry, the cap (1) being retained in it (22) by the geometry of the set of micro-inserts (3) and causing the feeling of coupling and a slight coupling sound or closing "click" by the contact of the sets of micro-inserts (3) when returning to its original position after elastically widening to pass the previous area (24).

[0107] In an alternative embodiment with respect to the composition of the cap (1), as can be seen in figures 3A and 3B, the cap (10), instead of being formed by a single piece, comprises a metal inner sleeve (12) integral with the body or housing (11) of the cap (1), which forms the assembly of the metal cap (1), so that the inner cavity of the cap (10) is the inner cavity of the sleeve (12) and the coupling face is that of the inner cavity of the sleeve (12). In the present embodiment the cap assembly (1) is configured such that the metals used for the body or housing (11) and the sleeve (12) are the same, either aluminium or steel, although alternatively they could be made from different metals.

[0108] In alternative embodiments to the configuration of the geometry of the inner cavity, as can be seen in Figures 2B and 3B, the inner cavity (21) of the cap has a polygonal, in this case triangular, cross-section with three sets of micro-inserts (3) positioned at the mid-points of the edges, which will be the points where the coupling of the inner cavity (21) is made, since they are closer to the projection of the coupling geometry on the ring or collar (4) of the container (2). Other polygonal shapes would always be possible depending on the geometry of the ring or collar (4) of the container (2).

[0109] As can be seen in Figure 3A, the inner cavity (21) includes auxiliary elements for centring and interfering with the interaction of the walls of said inner cavity (21) of the cap (1) in its coupling to the ring or collar (4) by means of protrusions (13) in the form of longitudinal ribs.

[0110] These auxiliary scratch-protection elements comprise the sets of micro-inserts (3) positioned in said inner cavity. These sets of micro-inserts (3) located in the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap (1) are used to prevent scratching but, in addition, are located in the position corresponding to the specified coupling height of these sets of micro-inserts (3) on the recess (22) of the ring or collar (4) for fixing the supply / dosing system to the container (2), in the closing position of the cap (1) on the container (20), so that said sets of micro-inserts (3) are configured both to prevent scratching of the ring or collar (4) and to perform the coupling in the closing area, by the same set of micro-inserts (3).

[0111] In the previous claims without ribs, as well as in those with or without a sleeve (12), this duality in the placement on the closing position and the position of prevention of scratching of the ring or collar (4), is equally realised.

[0112] In alternative embodiments, two or more sets of independent micro-inserts are located at different heights, each set of micro-inserts being configured for a different function, such that said sets of micro-inserts act as scratch-protection elements and are configured to perform the coupling in the closure zone.

[0113] In any of these above cases, the sum of the sets of micro-inserts (3) composed of polymeric material have a represent a proportion equal to or less than 5% by weight with respect to the weight of the set of the cap.

[0114] As can be seen in Figure 1, and alternatively to the embodiment of Figure 4 above where the coupling occurs at a closure point (P) formed by a recess (22), the ring or collar (4) comprises a closure point (P) on a surface of the ring without recesses, having in said area of the ring or collar (4) a continuous section without notches, protrusions or recesses associated with the coupling point of the micro-insert assemblies (13, 130) of the cap (10). This closing point (P) is located at the beginning of a previous area (24) with a larger section than the free section (S) of passage of the cap (1), so that when the sets of micro-inserts (3) reach this area, the elastic deformation of the cap and micro-inserts occurs and the coupling with a closing "click" takes place at said point corresponding to the closing point (P).

[0115] Analogously to the previous embodiments, as can be seen in Figure 5, the cap makes its coupling on the closure point (P) comprised in an area of the body of the container (20), which in this embodiment gives continuity to the shape of the container, although other coupling points to the body of the container are possible outside the ring or collar (4).

[0116] Although reference has been made to a specific embodiment of the invention, it is evident to a person skilled in the art that the recyclable metal cap, as well as the container assembly incorporating same, described above are susceptible to numerous variations and modifications, and that all the details mentioned may be substituted by other technically equivalent ones, without departing from the scope of protection defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. Recyclable cap (1) of the metal cover type for containers (2), wherein this cap comprises a body or housing (11) with an inner cavity configured to allow the coupling of this cap (1) in a container (2), by a press-on fitting by complementarity of the geometry of the two parts configured to be coupled, characterised in that the cap (1) comprises in its inner cavity one or more sets of micro-inserts (3) of polymeric material fixed to the coupling face of the inner cavity of the cap assembly and positioned uniformly distributed, wherein the micro-inserts (3) have a proportion equal to or less than 5% by weight with respect to the weight of the cap assembly (1).

2. Recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to claim 1, wherein the micro-inserts (3) have a proportion equal to or less than 3% by weight with respect to the weight of the cap assembly (1).

3. Recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the cap assembly (1) is in a single-piece.

4. Recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the cap (1) comprises a metal inner sleeve (12) integrally fixed with the body or housing (11) of the cap, which forms the assembly of the metal cap, such that the inner cavity of the cap (11) is the inner cavity (21) of the sleeve (12) and the coupling face is that of the inner cavity of the sleeve (12).

5. Recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the inner cavity (21), either of the body or housing (11) or of the sleeve (12), has a substantially circular cross section that includes rib-like protrusions (13) that are closer to a projection of the coupling geometries of the container, with the micro-inserts (3) positioned uniformly distributed on these protrusions (13).

6. Recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each set of micro-inserts (3) comprises multiple micro-inserts configured to form one of the following geometries: - a ball cap assembly; or - a strip-like elongate assembly; or - a discontinuous set of micro-inserts positioned with respect to each other substantially on a same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap on the container; and wherein on the inner face (21) of the cap (1) there are two or more sets of independent micro-inserts located at different heights, each set of micro-inserts being configured for a different function, such that said sets of micro-inserts (3) act as scratch-protection elements, as well as configured to perform the coupling in the closing zone.

7. Recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each set of micro-inserts comprises multiple micro-inserts (3) and each of the multiple micro-inserts (3) is positioned with respect to each other on a same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap on the container, wherein each of the micro-inserts (3) is positioned equidistant from each other.

8. Recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner cavity, either of the body or housing (11) or of the sleeve (12), has a polygonal cross section with the micro-inserts positioned, at least, at the points corresponding to the points of the coupling edges of the inner cavity that are closest to a projection of the coupling geometry of the container.

9. Recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to claim 8, wherein the inner cavity, either of the body or housing (11) or of the sleeve (12), has a triangular section with three micro-inserts (3) positioned one on each of the edges of this inner cavity and at the midpoint of each edge.

10. Recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the micro-inserts (3) are formed at least by an accumulation of polymeric material forming a protrusion that emerges from its fixed position on the coupling face of the inner cavity (21) of the cap (1) towards the central axis of the coupling direction of the cap (1) in the container (2), wherein the micro-inserts (3) have a composition mainly comprising an adhesive of the epoxy resin, modified epoxy acrylate resin or modified acrylate type.

11. Container and recyclable metal cap assembly, wherein this cap (1) comprises a body or housing (11) with an inner cavity (21) with closure adjustment elements, said inner cavity (21) being configured to allow the coupling of this cap (1) to a container (2) in an outlet area (40) of the contents of the container (2) itself, either a ring or collar (4) for fixing the supply or dosing system or a part of the body of the container (2) associated with this outlet area (40), wherein this coupling is carried out by a press-on fit by complementarity of the geometry of both parts (1,40); characterised in that the cap (1) is as described in any of claims 1 to 10.

12. Container and recyclable metal cap assembly, according to claim 11, wherein the cap (1) coupled to the container (2) comprises in its internal cavity (21) one or more sets of micro-inserts (3) integral with the coupling face of the internal cavity (21) of the cap and configured so that they are positioned at a point (T) corresponding to a height in the cap that determines the fit of these sets of micro-inserts (3) on the outlet area (40) of the contents of the container (20), at a closing point (P) on this outlet area (40); wherein each set of micro-inserts (3) has a configuration such that a free passage section (S) left between said set of micro-inserts (3) in the inner cavity (21) is slightly smaller than the section occupied by a previous zone (24) to the closing point (P) of the outlet zone (40) of the contents of the container (2), previous to the point where the cap reaches its closed position on the container according to the direction of introduction of the cap; and wherein the zone of the cap (1) containing the one or more sets of micro-inserts (3) is configured to elastically deform and overlap this previous zone (24).

13. Container and recyclable metal cap assembly, according to claim 12, wherein the closure point (P) is: - a point of the outlet zone (40) of the contents of the container (2) within a surface of substantially continuous section in the previous zone (24) without notches, protrusions or recesses associated with the point of coupling of the sets of micro-inserts (3) of the cap (1) located at the beginning of this previous zone (24) with a larger section than the free passage section (S) of the cap (1); or - a recess (22) in the outlet zone (40) of the contents of the container (2) located subsequently, in the direction of introduction of the cap, to a previous zone (24) with a larger section than the free passage section of the cap (1), where the cap and its sets of micro-inserts (3) are configured to be coupled in said recess (22), the cap (1) being retained in this recess (22) by the elastic recovery of its geometry.

14. Container and recyclable metal cap assembly, according to any one of the preceding claims 11 to 13, wherein each micro-insert assembly (3) comprises a plurality of micro-inserts configured to form one of the following geometries: - a ball cap assembly; or - a strip-like elongate assembly; or - a discontinuous set of micro-inserts positioned with respect to each other substantially in the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap on the container.

15. Recyclable metal container and cap assembly, according to any of claims 11 to 14, wherein on the inner face (21) of the cap (1) there are two or more sets of micro-inserts (3), where each set of micro-inserts (3) is positioned with respect to each other in the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap on the container and in turn in the position corresponding to a certain point of coupling of these sets of micro-inserts (3) at the closure point (P) on the outlet zone (40) of the contents of the container (2), in the closure position of the cap (1) on the container (2), so that said sets of micro-inserts (3) act as auxiliary elements of protection against scratching, as well as configured to perform the coupling in the closure zone.