Pouring device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a pouring device configured to be coupled to a container and to allow outflow to be regulated when pouring the fluid stored in the container. The pouring element makes combined use of a frame and a pouring part capable of rotating between both such that passage of the fluid is constricted with a larger or smaller section that can be adjusted by the user. According to specific examples, the pouring element has safety elements which prevent oil from coming out of the moving portions, wetting the exterior.

Description

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a pouring device configured to be coupled to a container and to allow outflow to be regulated when pouring the fluid stored in the container.

[0002] The pouring element makes combined use of a frame and a pouring part capable of rotating between both such that passage of the fluid is constricted with a larger or smaller section that can be adjusted by the user. According to specific examples, the pouring element has safety elements which prevent oil from coming out of the moving portions, wetting the exterior.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] There are technical fields in which certain conventional solutions and utensils allow a more or less comfortable use with no significant changes in design being observed. One such technical field is the field of pouring elements for edible oil.

[0004] The storage of oil in oil bottles allows using specific pouring elements for different uses. In large kitchens where there are large amounts of oil, pouring elements have a wide section so as to pour enough oil in a short time without having to wait for a long time. In contrast, for table-top dispensing, the amounts are smaller, and therefore smaller containers with pouring elements having a smaller section are used to adapt the outflow to this other small-scale use.

[0005] Variations of pouring elements to prevent dripping are also known. Oil is a fluid that stains and if the use of an oil container causes the oil to permeate the outer surface, then the handling of said container causes, at the very least, discomfort, if not also problems of staining clothes with the cost that it entails.

[0006] Solutions which prevent dripping usually incorporate a conduit intended for the exit of the oil emerging from an inner area of the upper portion of the pouring element. After pouring the oil, the droplet that remains at the edge thereof moves down along the outer portion of this conduit, however, since the conduit emerges from an inner area, the droplet ends up in said inner area and not on the outside of the container.

[0007] Additionally, the inner area intended for receiving excess droplets is communicated with the inside of the container, recovering the oil and preventing it from overflowing when the container is again tipped to continue serving the oil, for example.

[0008] In any case, the amount of oil to be served depends on the outlet section and cannot be regulated. The document US 7 014 075 B2 defines the preamble of claim 1.

[0009] The present invention solves the identified problems by providing a device which allows regulating the outflow, particularly designed for dispensing edible oil, with a simple rotation of the pouring element.DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention defined in claim 1 relates to a pouring device with flow regulating capacity, comprising: a frame configured to be coupled to a container for storing a fluid; the frame comprising first leak-tight attachment means for attaching the frame to the container, a first passage conduit configured to be in fluidic communication with the inside of the container when it is in the operating mode coupled to the container, a first constricting element of the first passage conduit configured to restrict the passage of fluid when the fluid exits the container in the operating mode.

[0011] The frame is a fixed portion securely coupled in the operating mode to a container for storing a fluid, particularly edible oil.

[0012] The pouring device is intended for being installed in a container and allows regulation in this situation when it is installed given that the fluid is stored in the container and interaction with the fluid occurs in conditions of use. For this reason, the conditions which give rise to situations related directly to the behavior of the fluid are identified with the expression "when it is in the operating mode", although the configuration of the device is described with respect to the portions and parts making up said device and defined regardless of whether or not it is installed in a container.

[0013] The fixing is preferably performed with respect to the outlet neck of the container such that the fluid must now necessarily exit through the frame and particularly through the so-called first passage conduit.

[0014] The sealing means between the frame and the container allows the fluid to only exit through the first passage conduit. Furthermore, regulation is possible by establishing a control in the passage section of the first conduit.

[0015] A first element intervening in the control of the fluid flow is the first constricting element. This first constricting element is an element which partially restricts the passage of oil, therefore leaving a section which will be the maximum passage section of the entire device.

[0016] The device further comprises: a pouring element attached to the frame, wherein the attachment between the pouring element and the frame is rotary with respect to a longitudinal axis X-X' and with axial retention with respect to said longitudinal axis X-X', the pouring element further comprising a second passage conduit in fluidic communication with the first passage conduit of the frame, a second constricting element of the second passage conduit configured to have a first degree of overlap with the first constricting element of the frame in a first angular position of the pouring element with respect to the frame about the longitudinal axis X-X', the overlap being in accordance with the fluid outflow direction in the operating mode, and to have a second degree of overlap with the first constricting element in a second angular position of the pouring element with respect to the frame about the longitudinal axis X-X', the overlap being in accordance with the fluid outflow direction in the operating mode, wherein this second degree of overlap is greater than the first degree of overlap.

[0017] This second part, the pouring element, is attached to the frame such that there is, between both, one degree of freedom, the relative rotation between both about a longitudinal axis X-X'. Given that the frame is fixed to the container, the relative rotation between the pouring element and the frame is also a rotation between the pouring element and the container when it is coupled to said container in the operating mode.

[0018] The pouring element has a second conduit for the passage of the fluid through the pouring element. Since the pouring element is attached to the frame and the second conduit is in fluidic communication with the first passage conduit, the fluid exiting the container through the first passage conduit of the frame is also allowed to pass through the pouring element through the second passage conduit.

[0019] According to preferred embodiments, the pouring element is inserted into the frame such that the frame partially houses the pouring element in the first passage conduit, linking the first passage conduit and the second passage conduit in a very compact manner.

[0020] The pouring element has a second constricting element which establishes a different degree of overlap with the first constricting element of the frame at least in two different angular positions of the pouring element with respect to the frame. The overlap between the first constricting element and the second constricting element is in accordance with the fluid outflow direction in the operating mode, where fluid outflow direction is understood to mean the direction the fluid will follow if the constricting elements limiting the passage of the fluid were not present. According to a preferred example, the overlap being in accordance with the fluid outflow direction in the operating mode of the second degree of overlap is not only greater than the first degree of overlap, but also greater than any other degree of overlap.

[0021] According to the example, the first constricting element and the second constricting element are surfaces transverse to the longitudinal direction, so the overlap occurs in a plane transverse to the longitudinal direction.

[0022] According to another example also applicable to the preceding example, both the frame and the pouring element are formed by cylindrical bodies which give rise to side walls. In order to increase the passage section, the side walls of the frame and of the pouring element have windows through which the relative rotation between the frame and the pouring element give rise to different degrees of overlap of the side walls and the windows which determine a larger or smaller degree of overlap on a surface having a cylindrical configuration, that is, with respect to a radial flow direction.

[0023] According to a preferred example, the rotation between the pouring element and the frame is angularly limited in a pre-established range and wherein the overlap is minimum at one end of the rotation and the overlap is maximum at the other end of the rotation.

[0024] Additionally, the pouring element further comprises: a pouring surface for guiding the fluid leaving the second passage conduit, and gripping means to allow the user to rotate the pouring element with respect to the frame, regulating the fluid outflow in the operating mode.

[0025] The exiting fluid after overcoming first the frame and then the pouring element reaches a pouring surface which allows the fluid to be guided for pouring so that the outflow is under control.

[0026] Additionally, the pouring element has gripping means which allow establishing the angular position with respect to the frame or the container when it is operatively coupled thereto. Typically, the user will have easier access to the container but given that the frame is fixed to the container in the operating mode, the rotation with respect to the container is also a rotation with respect to the frame and regulation of the outflow rate of the fluid is established in this way.

[0027] According to one embodiment, second sealing means are arranged in the rotary attachment between the frame and the pouring element to prevent the passage of fluid unless it is through the first passage conduit and the second passage conduit.

[0028] When there are parts with relative movement, there is the possibility of the fluid exiting between both parts. The most important relative movement is between the frame and the pouring element. In this example, at least sealing means are incorporated between both, which does not prevent relative rotation. According to examples that will be described with the support of the figures, sealing means which will be the only elements establishing certain resistance to the rotation between the frame and the pouring element so as to make it easier for the user to use same will be shown.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the attachment of the pouring element and the frame is by insertion according to the longitudinal direction X-X', wherein the longitudinal direction X-X' is parallel to the axis of rotation of the pouring element with respect to the frame.

[0030] The frame and the pouring element are separate parts which are attached together, providing them with one degree of freedom, relative rotation with axial retention. During the manufacture, the attachment between the parts is carried out by insertion and more preferably by clipping by means of wedged flange elements which are located in one part and establish axial retention as a result of the support thereof on segments of the perimeter edge in fluid passage windows located in the other part.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the first conduit of the frame comprises a first cylindrical body with an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X', and wherein the first constricting element is arranged transverse to the longitudinal axis X-X' connecting two regions of the inner wall of the cylindrical segment and allowing the at least partial passage of the fluid flow according to the longitudinal direction X-X'.

[0032] According to this embodiment, passage restriction is established in the longitudinal direction with a transverse element. This allows the axial passage of the fluid to be regulated and does not prevent the existence of additional passages also with restrictions in the transverse direction, for example, by means of windows and cylindrical surfaces overlapping with the windows. Axial flow regulation and transverse flow regulation being independent of one another allows increasing the regulating capacity because it is established over a larger passage section.

[0033] According to another embodiment applicable to the preceding one, the first cylindrical body of the frame comprises at least a first window to allow the at least partial passage of the fluid flow according to the direction transverse to the longitudinal direction X-X', increasing the passage section of the fluid in the first conduit.

[0034] According to this embodiment, the frame with a first cylindrical body establishes an additional passage for the fluid by means of a window in the cylindrical body which not only allows passage according to the axial direction but also according to the transverse direction, compensating for the passage restriction of the elements which constrict the longitudinal passage by overlap.

[0035] According to another embodiment applicable to the preceding ones, the frame comprises a second cylindrical body, with the first cylindrical body being housed inside the second cylindrical body, and wherein the first cylindrical body is connected with the second cylindrical body by means of a connecting membrane.

[0036] The materials commonly used in parts of this type which incorporate sealing means are deformable, preferably elastically deformable. Although this property is good for adaptation to the surfaces on which sealing must be established, it is not good when there are parts with relative movement since the deformation of one part causes mechanical interference with another part, preventing the correct operation of the device. This is particularly true when the deformation is imposed, for example, by external parts such as the pouring neck of a container which, due to imperfections, may not be evenly shaped or have low tolerance levels.

[0037] According to this example, a first body is intended for generating inner surfaces which give rise to the first conduit, passages by means of windows, or constricting elements for constricting the passage of the fluid interacting with the pouring element, and a second outer body which interacts with the container, therefore the deformations of the first cylindrical body are independent of the deformations of the second cylindrical body. This is true although they are both connected by a connecting membrane.

[0038] According to a more preferred embodiment, the connecting membrane is deformable.

[0039] According to this more preferred example, the relative deformations between the first cylindrical body and the second cylindrical body which give rise to relative movements are absorbed by the deformation capacity of the membrane which establishes the connection between both bodies.

[0040] According to another more preferred embodiment, the connecting membrane is configured as a truncated cone sector.

[0041] With this specific configuration of the membrane, direct transmission of the deformations of the second cylindrical body to the first cylindrical body arranged more to the inside according to the transverse direction and also in the opposite direction is prevented, and it is furthermore a configuration which has been proven to be extremely stable mainly according to the axial direction.

[0042] According to another embodiment applicable to the preceding examples, the second conduit of the pouring element comprises a third cylindrical body with an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X', and wherein the second constricting element is arranged transverse to the longitudinal axis X-X' connecting two regions of the inner wall of the third cylindrical body and allowing the at least partial passage of the fluid flow according to the longitudinal direction X-X'.

[0043] According to this embodiment, the pouring element also comprises a cylindrical body, the one identified as the third cylindrical body, which incorporates a transverse constricting element cooperating with the transverse constricting element of the frame. In the preferred example, both constricting elements have a flat configuration, parallel to one another, and overlapping according to the axial direction in order to allow a larger or smaller degree of overlap to be established and thereby regulating the passage of the fluid.

[0044] According to a specific embodiment of the preceding one, the third cylindrical body of the pouring element comprises at least a second window to allow the at least partial passage of the fluid flow according to the direction transverse to the longitudinal direction X-X', increasing the passage section of the fluid in the second conduit.

[0045] According to this embodiment, in addition to the regulation allowed by the transverse constricting elements, the cylindrical body of the pouring element comprises at least one window for the transverse passage of fluid, increasing the flow capacity. When this window is combined with windows in the walls of the frame overlapping to a larger or smaller degree with the rotation of the pouring element, then the degree of regulation is successfully increased due to the greater variation of the fluid passage.

[0046] According to a specific embodiment of the preceding one, the frame comprises at least one stop configured to at least partially penetrate the at least a second window of the third cylindrical body of the pouring element, and wherein the stop establishes at least two angular end positions in the rotation of the pouring element with respect to the frame.

[0047] The relative rotation between the pouring element and the frame allows the degree of overlap between the first constricting element and the second constricting element to vary, however, the user may have no reference with respect to the degree of opening or to the direction in which he / she must establish the rotation.

[0048] According to this embodiment, the inclusion of a stop configured to limit the angular path in the relative rotation between the pouring element and the frame allows establishing a limited range in which the user has the can feel that he / she has covered all the possibilities of regulation. This stop also limits the angle between two values of interest.

[0049] According to a specific embodiment of the preceding one, one angular end position is the first angular position of the pouring element, and wherein the other angular end position is the second angular position of the pouring element.

[0050] According to this specific configuration, the relative rotation between the pouring element and the frame is limited between two specific relative angular positions, the positions corresponding to the first angular position of the pouring element and to the second angular position of the pouring element, respectively. These positions are the end positions, so when the user rotates the cap to an end position, he / she will encounter a physical limitation upon rotating same and will know that it is in an end position. The same user, upon rotating the pouring element in the opposite direction, will encounter the other end position, so he / she readily identifies the two end positions which will also provide the minimum flow rate and the maximum flow rate, respectively. As intermediate positions, the user will obtain intermediate flow rates in the operating mode and these positions can be identified without having poured the fluid yet since the ends are identified by rotating the pouring element before pouring, which prevents pouring with the maximum flow rate from the start, for example.

[0051] According to another embodiment applicable to the preceding examples, the first constricting element and the second constricting element are spaced apart according to the longitudinal direction X-X'.

[0052] The first constricting element and the second constricting element have a relative rotational movement. If both parts are in contact, there is a possibly high friction or even an imperfection which may give rise to mechanical interferences which prevent rotation. Any friction between the rotary parts gives rise to a retaining torque which translates into a feeling of resistance for the user which, should such resistance be excessive, is interpreted as being uncomfortable in use or even as an unusable device.

[0053] According to this embodiment, unlike what a person skilled in the art would do given that a flow is cut off always with contact between parts sectioning the passage of the fluid, the first constricting element and the second constricting element are spaced apart.

[0054] In contrast, it has been observed that flow constriction is likewise carried out effectively and friction between parts is prevented, with said friction being limited only to the portions intended for ensuring leak-tightness. The result is a closure which, while maintaining leak-tightness, requires minimal effort in rotating the pouring element which determines the angle and therefore the regulation of the flow.

[0055] According to another embodiment applicable to the preceding examples, the axial retention with respect to the longitudinal axis X-X' between the pouring element and the frame is established by means of at least one axial retention flange emerging from the pouring element adapted for establishing a support on a segment of the perimeter edge of the first window of the frame.

[0056] According to a preferred embodiment, the axial retention according to the longitudinal axis X-X' between the pouring element and the frame is established by means of an axial retention flange emerging from the pouring element and entering a window of the frame. The window of the frame is limited by a perimeter framework on which the flange is supported. During the relative rotation between the pouring element and the frame, the axial retention flange moves along a segment of the framework of the window, continuously ensuring the axial retention.

[0057] According to a specific embodiment of the preceding one, the segment of the perimeter edge of the second window intended for establishing the support of the axial retention flange of the pouring element comprises at least one segment intended for establishing a frictionless retaining support and one segment for friction support so as to generate a retaining force upon rotation between the pouring element and the frame.

[0058] Varying the position of the perimeter edge of the second window where the axial retention flange is supported allows the flange and said edge to have a higher or lower pressure, or even to have no contact at all, preventing friction. According to this embodiment, it is this mechanism which is used to differentiate rotating sectors among the complete range of rotation between the pouring element and the frame. The presence of friction in a support segment means that the range of rotation where friction occurs is identified by the user without requiring visual indications of the angular positions which give rise to one degree of opening or another in flow regulation.

[0059] According to a specific embodiment of the preceding one, the segment of the perimeter edge of the second window intended for establishing the support of the axial retention flange of the pouring element comprises an intermediate segment intended for establishing a frictionless retaining support and two segments for friction support, one at each end of the range of angular rotation between the pouring element and the frame so as to generate a retaining force upon rotation at both ends of said range of rotation.

[0060] According to this preferred example, the segments where friction occurs correspond to the end positions in the range of rotation between the pouring element and the frame. This selection allows the user to know, during rotation, whether he / she is near or at the very end of the angle of rotation without requiring too much effort. Furthermore, in these end positions the relative orientation between the pouring element and the frame is more stable due to mutual friction.

[0061] According to another embodiment, one or more intermediate segments with friction are established, also allowing the intermediate degrees of regulation serving as a reference between one use and another to be identified.

[0062] According to a specific embodiment of the preceding one, the pouring surface comprises a perimeter no drip edge which shows a ridged finish according to a cross-section according to a plane containing a longitudinal axis X-X'.

[0063] The use of this device with fluids that tend to stain, such as food-grade oil, should not give rise to the external staining of both the device itself and of the container on which it is installed. In particular, the device must incorporate design solutions which prevent the droplets remaining on or adhered to the pouring element after pouring the oil from ending up in the outer area of the pouring element or on the outer surface of the container.

[0064] To prevent the presence of droplets that slide down the outer part of the pouring element, according to this embodiment, the pouring element has an edge with a ridged finish. This ridged perimeter edge forces the last droplet to come off because it is not able to remain adhered to the pouring element, preventing it from subsequently sliding down the outer face of the pouring element and staining areas that are in contact with the user should it remain adhered thereto.

[0065] According to a specific embodiment of the preceding one, according to a cross-section according to a plane containing a longitudinal axis X-X', the angle formed between a longitudinal axis X-X' and an axis that goes through the point established by the perimeter no drip edge according to the section and is tangent to the pouring element is: less than 50 degrees, and more preferably less than 47 degrees, and more preferably less than 45 degrees, and more preferably less than 40 degrees, and more preferably less than 35 degrees, and more preferably less than 32 degrees, and more preferably less than 30 degrees.

[0066] Once the droplet that may stain the outer part of the pouring element comes off, it falls following the direction of the action of gravity, i.e., vertically. It has been observed that the pour flow usually stops at about 45 degrees of inclination of the container in the most unfavorable situation, when the container is completely full. The presence of rotation regulating elements means that these elements are the ones shown to be more prominent and therefore more susceptible to staining as the droplet falls.

[0067] According to these embodiments, a degree of stylization of the pouring element has been established taking into account its height and radial projection. That is, from the perimeter edge where the droplet comes off, two reference lines are taken according to a cross-section plane containing a central longitudinal axis X-X'. A first line parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X' which goes through the end of the perimeter edge and corresponds to a vertical projection when the container is supported vertically. The second reference line goes through this very edge and is tangent to the device. This condition of tangency is the one which coincides with the trajectory that would be followed by the center of a droplet coming off the edge when the container and the device are inclined and leads to contact.

[0068] The described angles are preferred angles of slenderness which ensure that the falling droplet does not contact the device and stain it.

[0069] According to another embodiment applicable to the preceding examples, the frame comprises a first disk and the pouring element comprises the second disk, wherein the first disk and the second disk are adapted for being arranged in contact with one another by sealing means.

[0070] According to this embodiment, the frame and the pouring element have two parallel contacting disks. A first axial retention which limits the insertion of the pouring element into the frame is established between both disks. Additionally, the contact between both disks favors the effective inclusion of sealing means.

[0071] According to a specific embodiment of the preceding one, the second disk comprises a housing for at least partially housing the first disk, leaving the second disk more accessible for the user than the first disk.

[0072] The frame is fixed once it is operatively inserted into the container. The rotating element is the pouring element. According to this embodiment, by partially concealing the first disk, i.e., the disk of the frame, the user more readily contacts the pouring element when he / she seeks to rotate the pouring element for regulating same.

[0073] According to another embodiment applicable to the preceding examples, the device comprises a cap for closing the pouring surface.

[0074] The cap allows the container to be transported without the content of the container coming out. However, specific designs of the cap allow increasing the degree of closure leak-tightness and safety.

[0075] In particular, according to another more specific example, the cap comprises a cylindrical body adapted for being supported on the second disk of the pouring element when it is operatively closed.

[0076] The insertion of the cylindrical body into the pouring surface ensures the position of the cap and the closure between the cap and the pouring element.

[0077] Furthermore, according to another more specific example, the cap comprises a cylindrical body for insertion into the pouring surface, and wherein the pouring surface comprises a plurality of longitudinal flanges between which there is a plurality of longitudinal channels to allow the exit of air during insertion of the cap.

[0078] According to this embodiment, the insertion of a cylindrical body into the pouring surface can cause an overpressure inside the container as a result of the plunger effect. This embodiment allows the retention between the cap and the pouring surface to be maintained through the longitudinal flanges and at the same time allows air to exit through the channels. At the end of the insertion process, given that the exit of air has been allowed, there is no overpressure which forces the fluid to come out, for example, through the sealing means.DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0079] These and other features and advantages of the invention will be more clearly understood based on the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment given solely by way of non-limiting illustrative example in reference to the attached figures. Figures 1 and 2Figure 1 shows a bottom view of the device according to a preferred example of the invention and a portion of a container. This same figure shows the plane of section giving rise to the section according to an elevational view of Figure 2. Figure 3This figure shows a perspective view of two parts of the device according to the same embodiment, i.e., the frame and the pouring element. The perspective view is sectioned according to a vertical plane so as to allow observing the inner portions and the figures also show a relative position spaced according to an axial direction so as to allow observing inner portions of the frame. Figure 4This figure shows the same section as the preceding figure in an elevational view and with the pouring element inserted into the frame without axial spacing, so as to allow observing the interaction between both parts; mainly the means which ensure leak-tightness. Figure 5This figure shows the frame-pouring element assembly according to the same embodiment without sectioning and with a bottom view but with a slight foreshortening in order to observe the interaction between the two parts. Figures 6A and 6BThese two figures show a top plan view of the same embodiment in order to observe two angular end positions of the pouring element with respect to the frame, with Figure 6A showing a maximum open position and Figure 6B showing a minimum open position. Figures 7A and 7BThese figures show the device shown in Figures 6A and 6B, respectively, but with an inclination which allows observing details of the inner walls and elements moving relatively between the pouring element and the frame. Figure 8AThis figure shows a perspective view of the frame according to the same embodiment without the pouring element seen from an upper portion which allows observing the housing where the pouring element enters. Figure 8BThis figure shows the pouring element according to the same embodiment in a perspective view without the frame and allows observing the details of the inner walls thereof, as well as any lower portion. Figure 9AThis figure shows a perspective view according to the same embodiment of the frame without the pouring element seen from a lower portion which allows observing the flow constricting elements, as well as the axial retention elements. Figure 9BThis figure shows the pouring element in a perspective view according to the same embodiment without the frame and allows observing the details of the flow constricting elements, as well as the axial retention elements. Figure 10This figure shows a section of a container with an embodiment of the invention in an inclined position in order to observe the geometric configuration which prevents external wetting in conditions of use. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0080] According to the first inventive aspect, the present invention relates to a device for regulating the flow in a pouring element configured to be installed on the mouth of a container, for example, a bottle. Flow regulation in the pouring operation when the container is a container containing edible oil is if particularly interest in this embodiment.

[0081] Products such as oil have a high viscosity index and an incorrect handling thereof furthermore gives rise to externally stained containers with the possibility of the user being stained as well. Food-grade oil is a highly valuable liquid and a good regulation allows metering the amount to be poured with a high degree of control according to the requirements of the food being seasoned.

[0082] Figures 1 and 2 show a preferred example of the invention, where Figure 2 is an elevational view of a section according to a vertical section when the container is vertically supported in the operating mode. That is, the container has a longitudinal direction identified as X-X' and in this case this direction is vertical according to the orientation of the figure. In the operating position, a vertical position is a position which follows the direction of the action of gravity.

[0083] Figure 1 is a bottom view which allows observing the device from the also sectioned cavity of the container, that is, from the lower portion. In this same figure, the plane of section used to generate Figure 2 is identified with a discontinuous line and two parallel arrows.

[0084] Figures 1 and 2 show only the portion of the container corresponding to the pouring mouth on which the pouring device (V) is installed according to one embodiment.

[0085] The pouring device (V) is inserted onto the mouth of the container (1) contacting the frame (2) through a first part. The frame (2) is a part which is irremovably arranged integral to the container (1) and wherein first sealing means (2.2) ensure the leak-tightness between the frame (2) and the container (1). In this case, the first sealing means (2.2) are perimeter flanges with a rounded ending and also perimeter flanges with a section ending in a ridge configured to press on the inner surface of the neck of the container (1), sealing the attachment to prevent fluid passage.

[0086] The frame (2) has a first passage conduit (C1) which is identified in Figures 8A and 9A and allows the passage of fluid through the inside of the frame (2). The passage according to this first embodiment is both according to the axial direction X-X' and to the transverse direction as the fluid enters the inside of the frame (2). The fluid, after entering the inside of the frame (2), exits according to the axial direction X-X'.

[0087] The pouring element (3) is fixed in the frame (2), wherein the fixing allows one degree of freedom, a rotation about the longitudinal axis X-X', and wherein axial movement is prevented.

[0088] The pouring element (3) has a second passage conduit (C2) which is identified in Figures 8B and 9B and allows the passage of the fluid through the pouring element (3). The passage according to this first embodiment is both according to the axial direction X-X' and to the transverse direction as the fluid enters the inside of the pouring element (3). That is, the fluid enters the inside of the pouring element (3) and exits according to the axial direction X-X'.

[0089] Given that the pouring element (3) is inserted into the frame (2), the second passage conduit (C2) of the pouring element (3) is housed inside the first passage conduit (C1) of the frame (2) such that the fluid, once entering the first passage conduit (C1), has access to enter the second passage conduit (C2). This is the path that the fluid is allowed to take until it finally exits the pouring element (3) given that there are additionally second sealing means (2.3, 3.5) between the frame (2) and the pouring element (3).

[0090] According to this embodiment, the pouring element (3) comprises a cap (4) having an inner cylindrical body (4.1) for closing the pouring element (3).

[0091] The assembly is closed by a tear-off capsule (5) which protects the assembly until the first use. Once opened, according to this embodiment it uses a weakening line on the capsule (5.1), so that after the initial opening of the capsule (5), it is separated into an upper portion (5.2) housing the cap (4) and having a threaded segment, and a lower skirt (5.3) at least partially concealing the container (1).

[0092] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a section of the frame (2) and the pouring element (3) such that none of the capsule (5), container (1), or cap (4) conceal any portions of both parts (2, 3). Additionally, the pouring element (3) is elevated according to the longitudinal direction X-X' so that it is spaced from the frame (2) and thereby allows viewing the interacting elements of both parts (2, 3).

[0093] The lower portion of Figure 3 shows the frame (2) formed by a first cylindrical body (2.7) adapted for housing part of the pouring element (3) which also has an essentially cylindrical configuration, particularly the lower portion thereof is formed by a cylindrical body which is identified as the third cylindrical body (3.4).

[0094] The first cylindrical body (2.7) comprises second sealing means formed by a perimeter flange (2.3) located in the inner wall of the first cylindrical body (2.7) and a support surface (3.5) against which the perimeter flange (2.3) is supported, ensuring leak-tightness.

[0095] The frame (2) according to this embodiment comprises a second cylindrical body (2.8), this second cylindrical body (2.8) being what fits in the neck of the container (1) and therefore the first sealing means (2.2) are located therein. The forces of interaction between the inner wall of the neck of the container (1) and the second cylindrical body (2.8) can therefore give rise to deformations of the second cylindrical body that would be transferred to the first cylindrical body (2.7).

[0096] To prevent the transmission of deformation-derived movements which in turn generate deformations in the first cylindrical body (2.7), a connecting membrane (2.9) joining the first cylindrical body (2.7) to the second cylindrical body (2.8) is included in this embodiment. Additionally, to prevent deformations in the radial direction from being transmitted through the connecting membrane (2.9), the membrane (2.9) has a configuration with a frustoconical sector shape and is furthermore preferably elastically deformable.

[0097] The second cylindrical body (2.8) of the frame shows a first perimeter disk (2.6). The pouring element (3) also comprises a second perimeter disk (3.3) which, in the operating mode, is arranged parallel to and in contact with the first perimeter disk (2.6) of the frame (2). The support in the axial direction between the first perimeter disk (2.6) and the second perimeter disk (3.3) ensures that the frame (2) and the pouring element (3) are brought together as close as possible.

[0098] Additionally, between the first perimeter disk (2.6) and the second perimeter disk (3.3) there are third sealing means which, in this embodiment, are configured by means of circular flanges located on the first perimeter disk (2.6) of the frame (2) adapted for pressing on the lower surface (3.3.2) of the second perimeter disk (3.3) of the pouring element (3).

[0099] In this embodiment there is additionally a seat for fourth sealing means in a portion in an upper position of the first cylindrical body (2.7). This upper portion of the first cylindrical body (2.7) comprises an oblique seat (2.5) having a groove (2.5.1) on which a perimeter support edge of the pouring element (3) sits.

[0100] In this preferred example, three sealing means are therefore used between the frame (2) and the pouring element (3), the second sealing means (2.2, 3.5) with essentially vertical contacting surfaces on a cylindrical surface, the third sealing means (2.4, 3.3.2) with essentially flat and horizontal contacting surfaces, and the fourth oblique sealing means (2.5, 3.8) with truncated cone-shaped contact surfaces.

[0101] Figure 3 also shows that the lower surface of the second disk (3.3) has a step leaving a small housing for the first perimeter disk (2.6), leaving the second perimeter disk (3.3) more readily accessible by the user. This allows the user, who tends to rotate the pouring element (3), to do so preferably through the gripping means of the pouring element or perimeter knurling (3.3.1) without contacting the fixed first disk (2.6).

[0102] The upper surface of the second disk (3.3) shows graphical elements which help the user to know the direction of rotation of the pouring element (3) whereby a greater flow is achieved and the direction of rotation which reduces the flow.

[0103] Returning to the inner portion of the frame (2), the frame has a first constricting element (2.1) for constricting the passage of the fluid, wherein in this embodiment this element shows a flat configuration connecting two regions of the inner wall of the first cylindrical body (2.7).

[0104] Additionally, the pouring element (3) also shows a second constricting element (3.1) for constricting the passage of the fluid, wherein in this embodiment this element also shows a flat configuration connecting two regions of the inner wall of the third cylindrical body (3.4).

[0105] The relative rotation between the pouring element (3) and the frame (2) allows changing the relative orientation between the first constricting element (2.1) and the second constricting element (3.1). In particular, in this embodiment the pouring element (3) and the frame (2) allow a relative rotation with a limited angular range. This limited range gives rise to a first end position in which the first constricting element (2.1) and the second constricting element (3.1) almost intersect one another, giving rise to a minimum degree of overlap, and a second end position in which the first constricting element (2.1) and the second constricting element (3.1) almost or completely overlap one another as they are almost or completely aligned with one another. In the first angular end position, the degree of constriction established by the first constricting element (2.1) gradually increases as a result the constriction caused by the second constricting element (3.1). In contrast, when both constricting elements (2.1, 3.1) overlap one another as much as possible, the passage of the fluid is prevented as little as possible.

[0106] Intermediate relative angular positions within the range of variation of the relative angular position between the pouring element (3) and the frame (2) also establishes intermediate degrees of constriction which allow continuous flow regulation from a minimum degree of passage to a maximum degree of passage.

[0107] Figure 6A and Figure 7A show a top plan view and slightly inclined view so as to allow observing the second constricting element (3.1) in the foreground and the first constricting element (2.1) in the back with a minimum degree of overlap in order to allow the highest flow rate. Figure 6B and Figure 7B show the pouring element (3) rotated to achieve a smaller degree of overlap between the first constricting element (2.1) and the second constricting element (3.1), achieving a greater degree of closure and a minimum flow rate or flow.

[0108] According to this embodiment, the variation between the maximum degree of passage and the minimum degree of passage has been increased by the presence of a first window (2.7.1) in the first cylindrical body (2.7) of the frame (2) and of a second window (3.6) located in the third cylindrical body (3.4). Both windows (2.7.1, 3.6) are positioned such that when the first constricting element (2.1) and the second constricting element (3.1) have the highest degree of overlap to leave the highest degree of passage of the fluid, the windows (2.7.1, 3.6) also coincide in order to increase the degree of passage of the fluid even further. Likewise, when the first constricting element (2.1) and the second constricting element (3.1) are in a relative angular position

[0109] Returning to Figure 3, a stop (2.10) is seen located inside the frame (2), in this embodiment configured in the form of a triangular portion located between the first constricting element (2.1) and the inner face of the wall of the first cylindrical body (2.7). This stop (2.10) is configured to be at least partially housed inside the second window (3.6) of the pouring element (3). The relative angular movement between the frame (2) and the pouring element (3) therefore causes the stop to move through the opening of the second window (3.6) until the stop abuts with both ends of the perimeter edge thereof.

[0110] Figure 4 shows an elevational view of a section of the frame (2) and of the pouring element (3) without separating them so as to allow observing the interaction of the sealing means described and the relative position of the other elements also described. In particular, the stop (2.10) is seen through the second window (3.6). Likewise, the stop is seen in Figure 8A which shows the frame (2) without the pouring element (3).

[0111] This is the mechanism whereby the angular range of rotation of the pouring element (3) and the frame (2) is established in this preferred example.

[0112] In this embodiment, two pairs of first windows (2.7.1) and two pairs of second windows (3.6) are used. Likewise, two stops (2.10), one for each second window (3.6), are used. Figure 8B allows observing the top view of the pouring element without the elements of the frame (2).

[0113] When the assembly of sealing means has been described, it can be seen that in particular the first perimeter disk (2.6) of the frame (2) and the second perimeter disk (3.3) of the pouring element (3) contact one another, establishing first means for limiting the relative axial movement between both parts (2, 3). However, this contact limits the degree of entry of the pouring element (3) in the frame (2) but does not prevent the exit. For this purpose, considering Figures 5 and 9, two axial retention flanges (3.7) are seen located on the outer surface of the third cylindrical body (3.4) of the pouring element (3) and these axial retention flanges (3.7), in this embodiment, are configured with a wedge shape or at least with a beveled surface in order to allow construction by forced insertion.

[0114] The insertion of the pouring element (3) into the frame (2) causes the axial retention flanges (3.7) to be at least partially housed in the first window (2.7.1) of the frame (2) so that they are supported on a perimeter segment of said window (2.7.1). The pouring element (3) is thereby axially retained with respect to the frame (2) in one direction, for example, as a result of the first perimeter disk (2.6) of the frame (2) being supported on the second perimeter disk (3.3) of the frame (3), and in the opposite or exit direction the axial retention is due to the axial retention flanges (3.7) being supported on one of the perimeter segments of the first window (2.7.1) of the frame (2).

[0115] In this embodiment, the perimeter edge of the first window of the frame (2) shows at least three portions or segments, two end portions or segments which maintain a friction retaining support (2.7.1b) and one intermediate portion or segment with frictionless retaining support (2.7.1a). The transition between an area with frictionless retaining support (2.7.1a) and an area with friction retaining support (2.7.1b) is identified by a step which causes the clearance between the perimeter edge of the first window (2.7.1) and the axial retention flange (3.7) to disappear. Both segments with retaining support (2.7.1a, 2.7.1b) are seen in Figure 5 and Figure 9B.

[0116] Lastly, the second channel (C2) in the pouring element (3) ends in a cylindrical prolongation having a pouring surface (3.2). This pouring surface (3.2) is closed by the cap (4) by means of an inner cylindrical body (4.1) as described. In this embodiment, the contact between the inner cylindrical body (4.1) of the cap (4) and the pouring surface (3.2) is established through a plurality of longitudinal flanges (3.2.1) between which there are defined channels (3.2.2) which are also longitudinal. When the pouring element (3) is closed with the cap (4), it has been observed that the insertion of the inner cylindrical body (4.1) acts like a plunger, increasing the inner pressure of the container (1), and said pressure would be maintained as a result of a sealing ring (4.3). It has been observed that the presence of the longitudinal channels (3.2.2) allow air to exit during insertion of the cap (4), preventing the increase in pressure which gives rise to the oil coming out even through the sealing means over time, staining the outer portions of the pouring device (V).

[0117] In this embodiment, the cap (4) also comprises a pressing body (4.2) formed by a perimeter prolongation which is supported on the upper surface of the second ring (3.3) of the pouring element (3). This pressing body (4.3) is intended for contacting and applying a force on the ring (3.3) in the closed position, increasing the effectiveness of the third sealing means (2.4, 3.3.2).

[0118] Figures 3, 4, 8B, and 10 show retention flanges (3.2.3) located at the ends of the longitudinal flanges (3.2.1) and serve to retain the cap (4) once it is inserted, closing the pouring element (3).

[0119] Lastly, considering Figure 10, a section according to a plane containing the longitudinal direction X-X' and in an inclined position is shown in order to view a position for pouring the fluid contained in the container (1).

[0120] The pouring element (3) has a no drip edge (3.2.4) which, in this embodiment, has a ridged ending according to the section shown in Figure 10. When pouring ends, the flow is cut off, leaving the last droplet in contact with this no drip edge (3.2.4). The ridged configuration of the edge favors the droplet coming off and falling.

[0121] According to this embodiment, the cylindrical body containing the pouring surface (3.2) is slender and in particular has a sufficient height with respect to the second perimeter disk (3.3) so that when the last droplet falls, this droplet does not hit the pouring device (V), in this case the second disk (3.3) which is the most prominent element.

[0122] Figure 10 shows two discontinuous lines, one being parallel to the axis X-X' and determining the distance a between the no drip edge (3.2.4) and the second disk (3.3) and a second line determining the distance b and the line joining the no drip edge (3.2.4) and the edge of the second disk (3.3); that is, it is tangent to the pouring device (V). An angle α as shown in the figure is established between these two lines. The figure also shows a continuous vertical line which identifies the direction in which the droplet falls. If the angle between this continuous line and the first discontinuous line is greater than α, then the trajectory of the droplet falls outside the pouring device (V), which prevents staining same.

[0123] It has been observed that for the conventional use of the pouring device and for preventing staining resulting from the droplet that remains after pouring coming off, the angle α must be less than 50 degrees, and more preferably less than 47 degrees, and more preferably less than 45 degrees, and more preferably less than 40 degrees, and more preferably less than 35 degrees, and more preferably less than 32 degrees, and more preferably less than 30 degrees.

Claims

1. Pouring device (V) with flow regulating capacity, comprising: - a frame (2) configured to be coupled to a container (1) for storing a fluid; the frame (2) comprising first sealing means (2.2) for attaching the frame (2) to the container (1), a first passage conduit (C1) configured to be in fluidic communication with the inside of the container (1) when it is in the operating mode coupled to the container (1), a first constricting element (2.1) of the first passage conduit (C1) configured to restrict the passage of fluid when the fluid exits the container (1) in the operating mode; - a pouring element (3) attached to the frame (2), wherein the attachment between the pouring element (3) and the frame (2) is rotary with respect to a longitudinal axis X-X' and with axial retention with respect to said longitudinal axis X-X', the pouring element (3) further comprising a second passage conduit (C2) in fluidic communication with the first passage conduit (C1) of the frame (2), a second constricting element (3.1) of the second passage conduit (C2) configured to have a first degree of overlap with the first constricting element (2.1) of the frame (2) in a first angular position of the pouring element (3) with respect to the frame (2) about the longitudinal axis X-X', the overlap being in accordance with the fluid outflow direction in the operating mode, and to have a second degree of overlap with the first constricting element (2.1) in a second angular position of the pouring element (3) with respect to the frame (2) about the longitudinal axis X-X', the overlap being in accordance with the fluid outflow direction in the operating mode, wherein this second degree of overlap is greater than the first degree of overlap; and wherein the pouring element (3) further comprises: - a pouring surface (3.2) for guiding the fluid leaving the second passage conduit (C2), and - gripping means (3.3.1) to allow the user to rotate the pouring element (3) with respect to the frame (2), regulating the fluid outflow in the operating mode; wherein the second conduit (C2) of the pouring element (3) comprises a third cylindrical body (3.4) with an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X', and wherein the second constricting element (3.1) is arranged transverse to the longitudinal axis X-X' connecting two regions of the inner wall of the third cylindrical body (3.4) and allowing the at least partial passage of the fluid flow according to the longitudinal direction X-X'; and wherein the third cylindrical body (3.4) of the pouring element (3) comprises at least a second window (3.6) to allow the at least partial passage of the fluid flow according to the direction transverse to the longitudinal direction X-X', increasing the passage section of the fluid in the second conduit (C2).

2. Device according to claim 1, wherein second sealing means (2.3, 3.5) are arranged in the rotary attachment between the frame (2) and the pouring element (3) to prevent the passage of fluid unless it is through the first passage conduit (C1) and the second passage conduit (C2).

3. Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the attachment of the pouring element (3) and the frame (2) is by insertion according to the longitudinal direction X-X', wherein the longitudinal direction X-X' is parallel to the axis of rotation of the pouring element (3) with respect to the frame (2).

4. Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first conduit (C1) of the frame (2) comprises a first cylindrical body (2.7) with an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X', and wherein the first constricting element (2.1) is arranged transverse to the longitudinal axis X-X' connecting two regions of the inner wall of the cylindrical segment (2.7) and allowing the at least partial passage of the fluid flow according to the longitudinal direction X-X'.

5. Device according to claim 4, wherein the first cylindrical body (2.7) of the frame (2) comprises at least a first window (2.7.1) to allow the at least partial passage of the fluid flow according to the direction transverse to the longitudinal direction X-X', increasing the passage section of the fluid in the first conduit (C1).

6. Device according to any of claims 4 to 5, wherein the frame comprises a second cylindrical body (2.8), with the first cylindrical body being housed inside the second cylindrical body (2.7), and wherein the first cylindrical body (2.7) is connected with the second cylindrical body (2.8) by means of a connecting membrane (2.9).

7. Device according to claim 6, wherein the connecting membrane (2.9) is deformable.

8. Device according to any of claims 6 to 7, wherein the connecting membrane (2.9) is configured as a truncated cone sector.

9. Device according to the claim 1, wherein the frame (2) comprises at least one stop (2.10) configured to at least partially penetrate the at least a second window (3.6) of the third cylindrical body of the pouring element (3), and wherein the stop (2.10) establishes at least two angular end positions in the rotation of the pouring element (3) with respect to the frame (2).

10. Device according to claim 9, wherein one angular end position is the first angular position of the pouring element (3), and wherein the other angular end position is the second angular position of the pouring element (3).

11. Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first constricting element (2.1) and the second constricting element (3.1) are spaced apart according to the longitudinal direction X-X'.

12. Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the axial retention with respect to the longitudinal axis X-X' between the pouring element (3) and the frame (2) is established by means of at least one axial retention flange (3.7) emerging from the pouring element (3) adapted for establishing a support on a segment of the perimeter edge of the first window (2.7.1) of the frame (2).

13. Device according to the claim 12, wherein the segment of the perimeter edge of the second window (3.6) intended for establishing the support of the axial retention flange (3.7) of the pouring element (3) comprises at least one segment intended for establishing a frictionless retaining support (2.7.1a) and one segment for friction support (2.7.1b) so as to generate a retaining force upon rotation between the pouring element (3) and the frame (2).

14. Device according to claim 13, wherein the segment of the perimeter edge of the second window (3.6) intended for establishing the support of the axial retention flange (3.7) of the pouring element (3) comprises an intermediate segment intended for establishing a frictionless retaining support (2.7.1a) and two segments for friction support (2.7.1b), one at each end of the range of angular rotation between the pouring element (3) and the frame (2) so as to generate a retaining force upon rotation at both ends of said range of rotation.

15. Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pouring surface (3.2) comprises a perimeter no drip edge (3.2.4) which shows a ridged finish according to a cross-section according to a plane containing a longitudinal axis X-X'.

16. Device according to claim 15, wherein according to a cross-section according to a plane containing a longitudinal axis X-X', the angle formed between a longitudinal axis X-X' and an axis that goes through the point established by the perimeter no drip edge (3.2.4) according to the section and is tangent to the pouring element (3) is: less than 50 degrees, and more preferably less than 47 degrees, and more preferably less than 45 degrees, and more preferably less than 40 degrees, and more preferably less than 35 degrees, and more preferably less than 32 degrees, and more preferably less than 30 degrees.

17. Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame (2) comprises a first disk (2.6) and the pouring element (3) comprises a second disk (3.3), wherein the first disk (2.6) and the second disk (3.3) are adapted for being arranged in contact with one another by third sealing means (2.4, 3.3.2).

18. Device according to claim 17, wherein the second disk (3.3) comprises a housing for at least partially housing the first disk (2.6), leaving the second disk (3.3) more accessible for the user than the first disk (2.6).

19. Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the device (V) comprises a cap (4) for closing the pouring surface (3.2).

20. Device according to claim 19, wherein the cap (4) comprises a cylindrical body adapted for being supported on the second disk (3.3) of the pouring element (3) when it is operatively closed.

21. Device according to any of claims 19 to 20, wherein the cap (4) comprises a cylindrical body (4.1) for insertion into the pouring surface (3.2), and wherein the pouring surface (3.2) comprises a plurality of longitudinal flanges (3.2.1) between which there is a plurality of longitudinal channels (3.2.2) to allow the exit of air during insertion of the cap (4).

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