RECYCLABLE CAP FOR CONTAINERS AND RECYCLABLE CONTAINER AND CAP SET

Abstract

RECYCLABLE CAP FOR CONTAINERS AND CONTAINER AND RECYCLABLE CAP ASSEMBLY The present invention relates to a recyclable cap and the container and cap assembly, preferably intended for perfume, cosmetic, and similar product containers. The cap of the invention is equipped with one or more sets of micro-inserts made of polymer material capable of creating contact between the cap and the container's collar, both preferably metallic, preventing scratches due to friction between the two parts and configured as scratch-resistant elements, as well as enabling coupling in the closure area, providing a good feel in use and improving the consumer experience. Figure for the abstract: Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: RECYCLABLE CAP FOR CONTAINERS AND RECYCLABLE CONTAINER AND CAP ASSEMBLY

[0001] The present invention relates to a recyclable cap for perfumery, cosmetic and similar containers. More particularly, it is a cap of the external protective hood or cap type, coupled to said containers by the outlet area of ​​the product contained inside, specifically, by the area provided with a metal collar, by means of a pressure adjustment.

[0002] The present invention also relates to the container for perfumery, cosmetics and the like, to which the recyclable cap of the invention is coupled, specifically, by the area provided with the metal collar. It is more particularly an assembly in which the metal cap of the cap type is coupled by pressure to said containers, by the outlet area of ​​the product contained inside, specifically, by the area of ​​the container provided with a metal ring or collar. Background of the invention

[0003] Sample and original products use cap-type stoppers or external protective caps, which must convey the elegance and quality of the product contained inside the container. As is known, many cosmetic and perfumery products are commonly associated, for marketing purposes, with another product, specifically, with a sample serving as an advertising medium.

[0004] In the state of the art, there are a variety of stoppers for perfume bottles or flasks, generally made of glass, intended to contain perfumery, cosmetic and similar products, where the stopper covers the outlet area of ​​said product contained in the container. This liquid outlet area is provided with a system for dispensing or dosing the product, coupled to the container by a ring or collar for securing it to the container. The stopper is conventionally coupled to the ring or collar of said dispensing or dosing system or, alternatively, to the body of the container, as is particularly the case with containers whose stopper gives an impression of continuity to the shape of the body of the container in said liquid outlet area.

[0005] There are different solutions in terms of materials for said external protection caps. A conventionally chosen option is to use caps made of thermoplastic material having a higher degree of flexibility and a lower level of friction with the material on which it closes, namely in In most cases, metal or glass containers and therefore a lower risk of scratching the collar, usually metal, after continuous use.

[0006] There are also external protective caps made of materials with little or no deformation, such as wood, metals and glass, equipped with a sheath made of plastic material, sealed, fixed or secured to the cap. The problem with these caps, made of metal for example, equipped with a plastic sheath, is that they are not suitable for recycling. The two parts, sheath and external shell, are in fact generally firmly joined and cannot therefore be recycled, either as plastic or as metal.

[0007] It is therefore further appropriate to provide a stopper for perfumery, cosmetic and similar containers, which fits the container in a safe and reliable manner for the user, and whose continued use does not result in involuntary detachment, normally due to deformation and / or widening of the stopper, and therefore to a loss of pressure of the coupling fit.

[0008] Very often, these containers are also not refillable and therefore generate an ever-increasing volume of waste that is difficult to recycle, as it is, by its very nature, not reusable. It is therefore advisable to provide a cap for perfume, cosmetic and similar containers that is fully recyclable.

[0009] There is therefore a need to provide a cap or hood type stopper for perfumery, cosmetic and similar containers, which is recyclable, which does not scratch the container, in particular its collar, during its continuous use, and which is also safe and reliable for the user, without involuntary detachments. For the coupling of the two metal parts specifically, it is also appropriate to give the user a

[0010] good feeling of use.

[0011] In addition to the above, it is also known in the state of the art that a snap-on closure is chosen for coupling the two parts, the cap and the ring or collar of the container. This closure is generally designed to produce a snap-on effect that is pleasant to the touch and results in a tactile and audible effect, commonly defined as a "click" closure. This type of snap-on closure, particularly appreciated on certain types of containers such as perfumery, for example, is obtained by coupling a projection located inside the cap and a groove located on the ring or collar of the container.

[0012] In all of the above cases, the inserts and / or sheaths are difficult or even impossible to separate from the cap once the product contained in the container has been used up, which makes recycling this type of cap extremely difficult.

[0013] Finally, it is appropriate to provide a cap having an additional manufacturing advantage, which can be manufactured at high speed or at high volume with high reproducibility on each cap. Description of the invention

[0014] The objective of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned problem.

[0015] For the sake of clarity, when the present description indicates that the container incorporates a dispensing / dosing system, this dispensing / dosing system designates any element / device allowing the product contained in the container to exit, in a metered, vaporized, aerosol form, or other conventional dispensing systems, as well as their absence to allow free exit.

[0016] Also for the sake of clarification, the term "polymer material" appearing in the present invention designates a substance composed of large molecules, or macromolecules, formed via the union by covalent bonds of one or more simple units called monomers, which may or may not be obtained synthetically.For the present invention, although it is acceptable to use, as will be indicated below, any composition of polymeric material or other type of material allowing the formation of sets of micro-inserts, their stability of shape and position in the placement area, as well as the properties associated with their function, such as a certain flexibility and a reduced risk of scratching metals, it is preferable to opt, although in a non-limiting manner, for a composition of epoxy resins, which allow a large number of materials to be bonded, including certain plastics, and can be made rigid or flexible, transparent or colored, fast or slow drying. As will be indicated below, the composition of the micro-inserts can vary with the use of other materials meeting the aforementioned requirements.

[0017] In this regard, polymeric material means any synthetic polymer. Epoxy resins, also called polyepoxides, a class of reactive polymers and prepolymers containing epoxy groups, are preferred. Epoxy resins are a type of so-called structural or engineering adhesives. They are used to bond a wide variety of materials, including some plastics, and can be made rigid or flexible, clear or colored, fast-drying or slow-drying. Preferred epoxy resins are the product of a reaction between epichlorohydrin and bisphenol A.

[0018] According to a first aspect of the invention, the objective of the present invention is to obtain a recyclable cap of the external protective metal hood or cap type, which solves all the problems linked to the recycling of this type of elements for containers, where said cap has a body or carcass provided with an internal cavity configured so as to allow the coupling of said cap and the container, by a pressure adjustment due to the complementary shape of the two parts, configured for said coupling.

[0019] The invention is advantageously based on the fact that the interior cavity of the stopper is provided with one or more sets of micro-inserts made of polymer material, secured to the coupling face of the interior cavity of the entire stopper and positioned in a uniformly distributed manner.

[0020] The preferred use and for which the technical effect obtained by the stopper for containers of the invention is the most important, is aimed at perfumery, cosmetic and similar containers, the specificity of the design of which results in reliable and safe operation, so that the user can exert coupling and decoupling by pressure at will, without the stopper uncoupling or detaching involuntarily from the container.

[0021] It should be taken into account that the cap may have any external shape, without this affecting the indicated inventive concept. The sector for which the present invention is most relevant, that of perfumery, cosmetic and similar containers, is inclined to the singular creation of original shapes, so that the external shape can be of multiple types, while maintaining the internal coupling shapes of the cap and the container, as indicated in the different embodiments described below in this specification.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the proportion of all the sets of micro-inserts integrated into the stopper is equal to or less than 5% of the weight of the entire stopper, and even more preferably, the proportion of the sets of micro-inserts is equal to or less than 3% of the weight of the entire stopper.

[0023] These configurations of proportion of the sets of micro-inserts in relation to the cap, make it possible to obtain a cap recyclable as a metallic product, thanks to its minimal content of materials other than metallic, which improves the durability of the cap as waste and minimizes the number of parts used, all of which also gives a good feeling of use and improves the consumer experience.

[0024] In one embodiment of the invention, the cap comprises a body or carcass and is one-piece.

[0025] In one possible embodiment, the cap of the invention may have an interior cavity having a circular cross-sectional configuration.

[0026] In another possible alternative embodiment, the cap of the invention may have an interior cavity having a polygonal cross-sectional configuration, preferably a triangular cross-section.

[0027] In another different embodiment of the invention, the plug is provided with an inner metal sheath, secured to the body or carcass of the plug, making up the entire metal plug, so that the inner cavity of the plug is the inner cavity of the sheath, and the coupling face, that of the inner cavity of the sheath, the plug being configured in two pieces.

[0028] In this two-piece embodiment, the cap of the invention may have a sheath provided with an interior cavity configured according to a substantially circular cross-section, incorporating rib-shaped protrusions, located as close as possible to the projection of the coupling shapes of the container. The micro-inserts are furthermore positioned in a uniformly distributed manner on said protrusions. Alternatively, in this two-piece embodiment, the interior cavity of the sheath of the cap of the invention may be configured in a polygonal cross-section, preferably in a triangular cross-section.

[0029] For the sake of clarity, cross-section designates the section perpendicular to the axis corresponding to the direction of introduction of the cap onto the collar corresponding to the distribution / dosing system.

[0030] In these embodiments of the plug configured in two pieces, these (the body or the carcass and the sheath) are both preferably made of the same metallic material.

[0031] For embodiments of the two-piece or one-piece configurations of the cap, the metallic materials used are preferably aluminum or steel. Alternatively, another type of metal may be chosen as the material used for the design of the cap.

[0032] Also with respect to any of the preceding embodiments, and optionally although preferably, each set of micro-inserts is provided with several micro-inserts, which are each positioned relative to each other on the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap on the container. Preferably, a set of micro-inserts is provided with a minimum of three micro-inserts.

[0033] With respect to any of the preceding embodiments, optionally although preferably, each micro-insert individually has a substantially spherical shape. Also optionally and with respect to any of the preceding embodiments, two or more sets of said micro-inserts have a substantially elongated shape.

[0034] Also preferably, two or more sets of multiple micro-inserts are each positioned in a direction parallel to the coupling axis of the cap on the container.

[0035] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a recyclable cap for perfumery, cosmetic and similar products, which is very competitive from a purely economic point of view.

[0036] With respect to the set or sets of micro-inserts made of polymer material secured to the coupling face of the interior cavity of the entire one-piece or two-piece cap, these micro-inserts are positioned in a uniformly distributed manner using a system for applying said micro-inserts that can be raised to an industrial level and with high reproducibility of position of said micro-inserts on all the caps.

[0037] According to a possible embodiment of the present invention, the system has a distributor of polymer material of said micro-inserts in the semi-fluid state, connected to a jetting valve whose height and application angle are adjustable. The metal cap is furthermore held by a rotating support. The entire system can be synchronized electronically. The system makes it possible to achieve a controlled supply of the volume and position of the polymer material of the micro-insert on the inner face of the metal cap with a high polymer material supply speed and reproducibility on all the caps. As indicated above, the quantity of polymer material is reduced and less than 10%, preferably equal to or less than 5%, and even more preferably, equal to or less than 3% of the total weight of the entire cap.

[0038] In this regard, and according to a possible embodiment of the invention, complementary to any of the preceding embodiments, the inner cavity has a polygonal cross-section provided with micro-inserts, at least positioned at the points corresponding to the points of the coupling adjustment edges of the inner cavity, located closest to the projection of the coupling shape of the container. Specifically to the above, the inner cavity may have a triangular section provided with three micro-inserts positioned on each of the edges of said inner cavity, at the midpoint of each edge.

[0039] According to another possible embodiment of the invention also, complementary to any of the preceding embodiments, each micro-insert is positioned equidistant or consecutive to the other.

[0040] It is necessary to specify that although the greatest advantages and utility of the use of this configuration with one or more sets of micro-inserts are obtained on a pressure closure coupling via a longitudinal movement of the cap on the container, it is appropriate to consider as an alternative and a possible analogous closure system, that where the user exerts pressure following a rotary movement of the cap on the container, allowing a coupling due to the complementarity of shape of the two threaded parts and the rotary pressure.

[0041] In this alternative case, and in a manner similar to the indications relating to a longitudinal closure, the sets of micro-inserts will be at least positioned, at the points of the threads and / or thread hollows of the cap, likely to come into contact with the complementary thread of the container, thus also avoiding scratches between said parts during this similar closure, which does not alter either the configuration or the fundamental characteristics of the invention compared to the other embodiments.

[0042] It should be taken into account that, commonly with the preceding embodiments, the micro-inserts should preferably be considered as being at least formed by an accumulation of polymer material constituting a protuberance emerging from their fixing 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 are mainly composed of an adhesive of the epoxy resin, modified epoxy acrylate resin or modified acrylate type.

[0043] Alternatively, the micro-inserts may be made of other types of synthetic or non-synthetic polymers, as well as other materials allowing the formation of sets of micro-inserts, their stability of shape and position in the placement area and the properties associated with their function such as a certain flexibility and a reduced risk of scratching the metals.

[0044] In accordance with the objective of the invention, and according to a second aspect thereof, the present invention is based on a recyclable metal container and cap assembly defined in the invention, coupled to the container by the outlet zone of the product contained in said container. The container is preferably of the type used in perfumery, cosmetics and the like. Specifically, the container has a ring or collar positioned at the outlet zone of the product contained in said container. The recyclable cap is also coupled to said collar, preferably metal.

[0045] Advantageously, the coupling of said cap and the container obtained via a pressure fit due to the complementarity of shape of the two configured metal parts, is carried out without the formation of scratches by coupling friction, nor deformations or widening of the entire cap. In addition to giving a good feeling of use, in particular due to the improvement of the sliding sensation between the two metal parts, the consumer experience is also improved by the creation of a sound at the time of closing / coupling due to the elastic variation of the section of the cap provided with the micro-inserts, at its closing point.

[0046] This cap is provided with closure adjustment elements at its interior cavity, configured to allow the coupling of said cap to a container. in an outlet area for the contents of the container itself, whether it is a ring or collar for fixing the distribution or dosing system, or a part of the body of the container associated with said outlet area, where this coupling is achieved by a pressure adjustment due to the complementary shape of the two parts.

[0047] For the sake of clarity, when the present description indicates that the container incorporates a dispensing / dosing system, this dispensing / dosing system designates any element / device allowing the product contained in the container to exit, in a metered, vaporized, aerosol form, or other conventional dispensing systems, as well as their absence to allow free exit.

[0048] Preferably for the present container and metal cap assembly, the inner cavity of the cap is provided with one or more sets of micro-inserts such as those described in the first aspect of the invention, where said sets of micro-inserts are secured to the coupling face of the inner cavity of the cap and configured so as to remain positioned at the point corresponding to a height of the cap, understood as the distance from the mouth of the cap, determining the fitting of said sets of micro-inserts on the outlet zone of the contents of the container, at a closing point on said outlet zone.

[0049] Also preferably, each set of micro-inserts has a configuration such that the free passage section left between them at the level of the interior cavity is slightly smaller than the section occupied by a zone anterior to the point of closure of the outlet zone of the contents of the container. Another characteristic of the invention is that the stopper zone provided with the set(s) of micro-inserts is configured so as to deform elastically and to superimpose itself on said anterior zone.

[0050] In this respect, the term "ring or collar for fixing the dispensing / dosing system" should be understood to mean the normally cylindrical and metallic element, although it may have other shapes and materials, joining together said dispensing / dosing system of the product contained and the container, where the geometric shape of its part with the largest diameter or section is complementary to the shape of the cavity of the cap.

[0051] In the same way and also as a possible coupling zone of the cap, it is necessary to understand a part of the body of the container associated with said outlet zone, where the closing coupling of the cap takes place.

[0052] Also for clarification purposes, it is appropriate to take as the closing point of the cap on the container, the position of the coupling path of the cap in the liquid outlet zone, making it possible to determine that the cap has made its maximum coupling movement on the container, either because it reaches a physical stop created for this purpose, or because it abuts against the container itself.

[0053] This configuration makes it possible to have a container and metal cap assembly, where the cap, as seen in the first aspect of the invention, is suitable for recycling because it is mainly composed of metal, and where the elements of the cap allowing a pressure closure with a “click” coupling effect, are composed of small micro-insertions, micro-inserts, without the interior part of the cap having to be mechanized.

[0054] The desired closing sensation effect is generated by the reduction of the free section of the internal cavity by the set(s) of micro-inserts, so as to allow the opening and introduction of the cap into the area of ​​the dispensing / dosing system. Thus, when the position of said sets of micro-inserts reaches the point corresponding to the height where the closing point is located on the outlet area of ​​the contents of the container, where said coupling area and closing point have a diameter or section greater than the free section left by the sets of micro-inserts between them, an elastic deformation of the area of ​​the cap where these sets of micro-inserts are located is caused in order to be able to adapt to said area.

[0055] According to a possible embodiment of the invention, the closing point is a point in the outlet zone of the contents of the container, within a surface with a substantially continuous section at the level of the front zone, without grooves, protuberances or recesses associated with the coupling point of the sets of micro-inserts of the cap located at the start of said front zone, of a section larger than the free passage section of the cap.

[0056] Thanks to this configuration, the meeting between the area in front of the outlet area of ​​the contents of the container, whether it is a ring or collar, or the coupling area on the body of the container itself, and the sets of micro-inserts of the cap, causes elastic deformation and the sound and contact “click” effect, with a view to obtaining a good feeling of use and improving the consumer experience.

[0057] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the closing point is a recess in the outlet zone of the contents of the container located posteriorly, in the direction of introduction of the stopper, to a prior zone of larger section than the free passage section of the stopper, where the stopper and its sets of micro-inserts are configured for their coupling in said recess, the stopper being retained in this recess by the elastic recovery of its shape.

[0058] 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, whether it is a ring or collar, or the coupling zone on the body of the container itself, preceded by a front zone having an occupied section greater than the section free passage of the plug with its sets of micro-inserts, which means that the area of ​​the sets of micro-inserts, once the recess is reached, quickly returns to its original shape and this end-of-coupling contact effect and even a slight coupling sound of the micro-inserts in said recess occur.

[0059] For clarification, whether it is a ring or collar, or a coupling zone on the body of the container itself, the recess must be understood as a groove of section smaller than the front zone or a zone previously flanked by a zone of a radius greater than the rest of the ring or collar, or of the coupling zone on the body of the container itself.

[0060] As indicated in the first aspect of the invention, the different micro-inserts composing each set of micro-inserts are at least formed of an accumulation of material constituting a protuberance emerging from their fixing position on the coupling face of the interior cavity of the cap towards the central axis of the coupling direction of the cap on the container.

[0061] The composition of the aforementioned micro-inserts makes it possible, when the ring or collar, or the coupling zone on the body of the container itself is made of metallic material, to avoid scratching the metallic zones when the cap passes for its fitting onto the closing point.

[0062] Preferably, for any of the above embodiments, each set of micro-inserts is provided with several micro-inserts configured so as to create a shape such that: - A set of spherical caps; or - An elongated band-like assembly; or - A discontinuous set of micro-inserts positioned substantially relative to each other on the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap on the container

[0063] These geometric formations of sets of micro-inserts make it possible to ensure the function described with the technical effect described above.

[0064] Both in the single-piece embodiment and in the embodiment of the cap forming a carcass and sheath assembly, the internal cavity of the cap may be provided with auxiliary elements for protecting against interference between the cap and the collar, during the interaction of the walls of said internal cavity of the cap linked to their coupling in the outlet zone of the contents of the container by means of: - Protuberances in the form of longitudinal ribs; or - Auxiliary sets of micro-inserts positioned in said cavity interior.

[0065] Preferably, as indicated in the first aspect of the invention, the composition of the entirety of the micro-insert assemblies configured for interlocking at the point for closing the outlet area of ​​the contents of the container, as well as auxiliary sets of micro-inserts or protrusions in the form of longitudinal ribs, is a polymer composition in a proportion equal to or less than 5% of the weight of the entire cap.

[0066] This makes it possible to have on the same cap, a set of elements improving the sensation of use and the consumer experience when closing, but also avoiding possible scratches when inserting the cap on containers equipped with a ring or collar, or a coupling zone on the body of the container itself, made of metallic material likely to be scratched by the cap, also metallic.

[0067] According to another possible embodiment of the invention, the internal face of the cap is provided with two or more sets of micro-inserts, where each set of micro-inserts is positioned relative to each other on the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap on the container and in turn, on the position corresponding to the determined point of interlocking of said sets of micro-inserts at the point of closing of the outlet zone of the contents of the container, so that said sets of micro-inserts serve both as auxiliary elements for protection against scratches and as coupling elements in the closing zone.

[0068] This thus advantageously makes it possible to obtain the two effects improving the sensation of use and the consumer experience during closing, by using the same sets of micro-inserts located at the corresponding determined point, with the cap closed, at the height of the groove of the ring or collar. Description of the drawings

[0069] In order to complete the description provided and to allow a better understanding of the characteristics of the invention, in accordance with a preferred example of a practical embodiment thereof, there is attached as an integral part to said description a set of drawings representing, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, the following elements:

[0070] [Fig-1] [Fig.l] shows in two views (A, B) in perspective, in (A), a view exploded view showing the entire cap configured for coupling at the collar with which the container is provided, by a pressure fit due to the complementary shape of the two parts; and in (B), a perspective view of the container with coupling of the cap assembly of the invention.

[0071] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] shows a one-piece embodiment of the plug of the invention, in two different configurations (A, B) in elevation and sectional views; (A) shows a circular cross-sectional view, and (B) a circular cross-sectional view. triangular cross-section with a set of three uniformly positioned micro-inserts.

[0072] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] shows another embodiment, different and alternative to that of [Fig.2], of the plug of the invention in two pieces, body or carcass and sheath, having two different configurations (A, B) by elevation and profile views. (A) shows a substantially circular cross-sectional view incorporating rib-like protuberances; and (B), a cross-sectional view with a sheath with a triangular interior cavity and a set of three uniformly positioned micro-inserts.

[0073] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] shows an embodiment of the cap and container assembly not coupled together by a terminal closure point.

[0074] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] shows an elevational view of the cap and container assembly not coupled together, with a coupling of the cap and the container body, resulting in continuity of diameter of the body itself.

[0075] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the recyclable cap, of the external protective hood or cap type, for containers of perfumery products and the like, and of the container and cap assembly comprising it, shown in the drawings. Detailed description of the invention

[0076] In more detail and according to one of the preferred embodiments of the invention, as shown in the figures, we have a recyclable cap (1) for containers (2) of the metal cap or hood type, made of aluminum or steel, where said cap comprises a body or carcass (11) provided with an internal cavity configured to allow the coupling of said cap (1) on the container (2) at the product outlet zone, by a pressure adjustment due to the complementarity of shape of the two parts, configured for their coupling.

[0077] As will be seen in the following embodiments, the inner cavity of the cap (1) is provided with one or more sets of micro-inserts (3) made of polymer material, secured to the coupling face of the inner cavity of the cap assembly and positioned in a uniformly distributed manner, where the amount of total polymer material of the set of micro-inserts is preferably equal to or less than 5%, and even equal to or less than 3% of the weight of the cap assembly (1), made of aluminum or steel in the present embodiment, although it is alternatively possible to use other metals.

[0078] Advantageously, the recyclable cap for perfumery, cosmetic and similar containers of the invention is easily recyclable due to the reduced quantity of polymer material secured to the coupling face, relative to the total weight. of the entire cap (1), which also prevents scratching of the parts of the container configured to be coupled by a pressure fit due to the form complementarity. The recyclable cap (1) also provides an additional useful function of elegance and quality with continued use of the recyclable cap of the invention on the container (2) with which it is coupled, by preventing scratches on the collar (4) with which the container (2) is provided.

[0079] As indicated by the term "micro", the micro-inserts (3) are small in size and their weight does not exceed 10% of the total weight of the entire plug (1) although, as has been indicated, their greatest advantage is obtained with weight percentages of less than 5% of the entire, and even more particularly, less than 3%. Typically, for a hemispherical micro-insert with a height of about 2 mm and composed of epoxy resin, the weight of each micro-insert would be about 4 mg.

[0080] In one embodiment of the present invention, the entire cap (1) is a one-piece (11). Two different configurations are provided for the one-piece embodiment (1, 11).

[0081] In the first configuration, the cap assembly (1) is provided with an inner cavity having a circular cross-section (Figure 2A) and a set of three micro-inserts (3) made of polymer material, secured to the coupling face of the inner cavity of the cap assembly (1) and positioned in a uniformly distributed manner. Each micro-insert (3) is positioned relative to each other on the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap (1) on the container (2) (Figure 2A).

[0082] According to a second configuration, the entire plug (1) is provided with an internal cavity having a polygonal cross-section, in this case triangular (figure 2B), and three micro-inserts (3) made of polymer material, secured to the coupling face of the internal cavity of the entire plug (1), one on each edge of said internal cavity with triangular cross-section, at the midpoint of each edge, and positioned in a uniformly distributed manner, equidistant from each other.

[0083] According to this second configuration, in alternative cases having polymer cross-sections with more sides, the micro-inserts (3) are at least positioned, at the points corresponding to the points of each coupling adjustment edge of the inner cavity, located closest to the projection of the coupling shape of the container.

[0084] The micro-inserts (3) of this embodiment and of the subsequent embodiments preferably have a substantially spherical or hemispherical shape, with a height of approximately 2 mm from the fixing wall towards the inside of the cavity of the plug.

[0085] According to another embodiment, the entire plug (1) is made up of two parts, body or carcass (11) and sheath (12), both composed of the same metallic material. In this embodiment, the plug (1) comprises an inner metallic sheath (12), secured to the body or carcass (11) of the plug, to form the entire metallic plug, so that the inner cavity of the plug (11) is the inner cavity of the sheath (12) and the coupling face, that of the inner cavity of the sheath (12).

[0086] Advantageously, the presence of two parts (11, 12) gives greater solidity to the body or carcass (11) of the stopper (1).

[0087] This embodiment therefore provides a cap (1) for containers (2) for perfumery, cosmetics and the like, of even greater strength and without deformation and / or widening of the cap, thus maintaining the pressure-coupling fit to the container (2) in a safe and reliable manner for the user.

[0088] Two different configurations are provided for the two-piece construction (11, 12).

[0089] In the first configuration, the entire two-piece (11, 12) cap (1) is provided of an inner cavity having a substantially circular cross-section, incorporating protrusions (13) in the form of ribs at the level of the sheath (12), which are located as close as possible to the projection of the coupling shapes of the container (figure 3A), as well as micro-inserts (3) made of polymer material, secured to the coupling face of the inner cavity of the entire cap (1) and positioned in a uniformly distributed manner on said protrusions (13). These protrusions (13) may be, for example, grooves stamped on the external face of the metal sheath (12) or formed during the stamping of the sheath (12) itself, to create these ribs without adding material.

[0090] In the first configuration, each set of micro-inserts comprises several micro-inserts (3), each positioned relative to one another on the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap (1) on the container (2) (figure 3A).

[0091] According to a second configuration, the entire plug (1) is provided with an interior cavity having a polygonal cross-section, in this case triangular (figure 3B), and three sets of micro-inserts (3) made of polymer material, secured to the coupling face of the interior cavity of the entire plug (1) and positioned in a uniformly distributed manner.

[0092] In the second configuration, the micro-inserts (3) are at least positioned, at the points corresponding to the points of the coupling adjustment edges of the inner cavity, located closest to the projection of the coupling shape of the container. In the second preferred configuration in triangular section (Figure 2B), with a minimum of three micro-inserts (3) positioned on each of the edges of said triangular inner cavity, at the midpoint of each edge.

[0093] In the two preceding embodiments and in all of the configurations described of the recyclable (1) and single-piece (11) or two-piece (11, 12), each set of micro-inserts can be provided with several micro-inserts (3), and each micro-insert (3) positioned relative to each other on the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap (1) on the container (2).

[0094] Preferably, a set of micro-inserts comprises at least three micro-inserts (3) (Figures 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B).

[0095] Optionally and in addition to the above, the entire cap (1) may be provided with two or more sets of several micro-inserts (3), positioned in this case so as to each follow 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 micro-inserts (3), each micro-insert (3) is positioned consecutively to the other, so that the shape of the micro-inserts (3) may be slightly elongated. In another alternative arrangement, the micro-inserts (3) may be positioned equidistant from each other and each set following a direction parallel to the coupling axis of the cap (1) on the container (2).

[0096] The micro-inserts (3) are at least formed from an accumulation of polymer material constituting a protuberance emerging from their fixing position on the coupling face of the interior cavity of the body or carcass (11), or of the sheath (12) of the cap (1), towards the central axis of the coupling direction of the cap (1) on the container (2). As indicated previously, this protuberance may have a substantially spherical shape, although other shapes are possible, associated with the equipment positioning the micro-inserts (3) on their final location in the cavity of the cap (1).

[0097] The micro-inserts (3) made of polymer material incorporate any type of synthetic polymer. These are mainly composed of an adhesive of the epoxy resin, modified epoxy acrylate resin or modified acrylate type.

[0098] The micro-inserts (3) as defined in the present invention allow the coupling of the entire cap (1) to a container (2) provided with a metal collar (4) at the collar area (4), without causing scratches by friction after multiple coupling and decoupling actions of the cap (1) and the container (2) at the collar (4). By these actions of coupling and decoupling by form complementarity, as indicated previously, a longitudinal pressure inlet cap must be understood as a rotary pressure inlet cap by thread.

[0099] Additional object of the invention, the container (2) comprising at least one recyclable cap (1) for containers as described previously, coupled to the container (2) at the outlet zone of the product contained in said container.

[0100] The recyclable cap (1) made of metallic material of the invention is designed to be coupled to a container (2) provided with a collar (4) made of metallic material. also, identical or different from that of the entire cap (1), without scratches due to the continuous use of this type of container.

[0101] Relative to a preferred embodiment of the recyclable metal container (20) and cap (1) assembly, and as shown in FIGS. 5 and 2A, we have a recyclable metal cap (1) configured to be coupled to a container (20) at the outlet zone of the product contained in said container (20).

[0102] The cap (1) comprises a single body (11) provided with an inner cavity (21) having a circular section, in the present embodiment. Alternatively, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the cap (10) may be provided with a sheath-shaped inner part (12). As shown in Figures 2B and 3B, the shape of the section of the inner cavity may also not be cylindrical. This inner cavity (21) must allow the cap (1) to enter the dispensing / dosing system (40), in this case a vaporizer, and adjust to the shape of the ring or collar (4) securing the dispensing / dosing system (40) to the container (20), to allow the final closing coupling by pressure adjustment of the cap (1) on said ring or collar (4).

[0103] The ring or collar (4) comprises a recess (22), or depression, of a radius or section smaller than at least one area anterior (24) to it (22), so that the cap can couple and close securely and effectively in said recess (22), which in the present embodiment, will be considered as the closing point (P) of the cap (1) on the ring or collar (4).

[0104] Advantageously, the inner cavity (21) of the cap (1) is provided with three sets of micro-inserts (3) positioned at the point (T) corresponding to the determined height, in the position corresponding to the closing point (P) of the cap (10) on the container (20), of fitting of said sets of micro-inserts (3) on the recess (22) of the ring or collar (4). Alternatively, a smaller or larger number of sets of micro-inserts (3) could be provided, although this configuration is considered one of the most effective in terms of the effect obtained and minimizing the creation of micro-inserts.

[0105] These sets of micro-inserts (3) are at least formed of an accumulation of polymer material, according to the material used in the present preferred embodiment, constituting a protuberance emerging from their fixing position on the coupling face of the interior cavity (21) of the cap (1) towards the central axis of the coupling direction of the cap (1) on the container (20).

[0106] The polymer material used for the formation of said micro-inserts is of the epoxy resin type. In this case, they form a spherical cap protruding from the wall of the interior cavity (21). Alternatively, these micro-inserts could form a elongated set in the shape of an ellipse or strip, as well as a discreet set of micro-inserts in different possible orientations.

[0107] In the present embodiment, the sets of micro-inserts (3) have a proportion equal to or less than 3% of the weight of the entire cap (1), although other proportions are possible, these being preferably less than 5% of the weight, in order to be able to consider the cap as metallic and therefore recyclable as such.

[0108] Alternatively, these micro-insert compositions can be replaced by compositions of other types of polymers, synthetic or not, or other materials allowing the formation of sets of micro-inserts, their stability of shape and position in the placement area and the properties associated with their function such as a certain flexibility and a reduced risk of scratching the metals.

[0109] The micro-insert assemblies (3) have a size leaving a free passage section (S) at the level of the internal cavity (21), slightly smaller than the section occupied by the anterior zone (24) at the recess (22) of the ring or collar (25) of the container (20). In order to preserve this body of larger section of the ring or collar (4), the stopper (1) deforms elastically. Once this anterior zone (24) is preserved, the micro-insert assembly (3) couples onto said recess (22) by returning to its original shape, the stopper (1) remaining retained in it (22) by the shape of the micro-insert assembly (3), which causes the sensation of fitting and a slight coupling sound or closing "click" due to the contact of the micro-insert assemblies (3) returning to their initial position after elastic widening to preserve the anterior zone (24).

[0110] In an alternative embodiment, with respect to the composition of the plug (1) and as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, instead of being formed in one piece, the plug (10) comprises a metal inner sheath (12), secured to the body or carcass (11) of the plug (1) to form the entire metal plug (1), such that the inner cavity of the plug (10) is the inner cavity of the sheath (12) and the coupling face, that of the inner cavity of the sheath (12). In the present embodiment, the entire plug (1) is configured such that the metals used for the body or carcass (11) and for the sheath (12) are the same, aluminum or steel, although they can alternatively be composed of another metal.

[0111] In alternative embodiments to the formal configuration of the inner cavity, as shown in Figures 2B and 3B, the inner cavity (21) of the cap has a polygonal, in this case triangular, cross-section and three sets of micro-inserts (3) positioned at the midpoints of the edges, the point of adjustment by coupling of the inner cavity (21) as being the closest of the projection of the coupling shape onto the ring or collar (4) of the container (2). Other polygonal shapes are possible provided that they conform to the shape of the ring or collar (4) of the container (2).

[0112] As shown in Figure 3A, the inner cavity (21) is provided with auxiliary elements for centering and interfering with the interaction of the walls of said inner cavity (21) of the plug (1) during its coupling to the ring or collar (4), by means of protuberances (13) in the form of longitudinal ribs.

[0113] These auxiliary scratch protection elements are provided with sets of micro-inserts (3) positioned in said inner cavity. These sets of micro-inserts (3), located on the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap (1), serve to prevent scratches and are also located at the position corresponding to the determined nesting height of said sets of micro-inserts (3) in the recess (22) of the ring or collar (4) for fixing the dispensing / dosing system on the container (2), the cap (1) closed on the container (20), so that said sets of micro-inserts (3) are configured both to prevent scratches on the ring or collar (4), as well as to allow coupling in the closure area, on the same set of micro-inserts (3).

[0114] In the embodiments without ribs, as well as in the embodiments with or without sheath (12), this duality of placement in the closed position and prevention of scratches of the ring or collar (4), is also achieved.

[0115] In alternative embodiments, two or more independent micro-insert sets could be provided located at different heights, each micro-insert set being configured for a different function, such that said micro-insert sets serve as scratch protection elements, and are also configured to allow coupling in the closure area.

[0116] In any of these previous cases, the proportion of the composition of the totality of the sets of micro-inserts (3) made of polymer material, is equal to or less than 5% of the weight of the whole of the stopper.

[0117] As shown in [Fig.l], and alternatively to the embodiment of [Fig.4] above where the fitting is carried out on a closing point (P) formed by a reinforcement (22), the ring or collar (4) is provided with a closing point (P) at a ring surface without recesses, having in said area of ​​the ring or collar (4) a continuous section without grooves, protuberances or recesses associated with the coupling point of the sets of micro-inserts (13, 130) of the plug (10). This closing point (P) is located at the start of a front area (24) of larger section than the free section (S) of passage of the plug (1), causing, when the sets of micro-inserts (3) reach said area, the elastic deformation of the cap and micro-inserts, as well as coupling with a closing “click” effect, at this point corresponding to the closing point (P).

[0118] Analogously to the previous embodiments, as shown in [Fig.5], the coupling of the cap occurs at the closing point (P) included in an area of ​​the container body (20), which, in this embodiment, gives continuity to the shape of the container, although other coupling points on the container body are possible apart from the ring or collar (4).

[0119] Although reference has been made to concrete embodiments of the invention, it is obvious to an expert in the field that the recyclable metal cap, as well as the entire container containing it, described herein, are susceptible to numerous variations and modifications, and that each detail mentioned can be replaced by another technically equivalent one, without departing from the scope of protection defined by the appended claims.

Claims

Claims

1. Recyclable cap (1) of the metal cap or hood type for containers (2), wherein said cap comprises a body or carcass (11) provided with an inner cavity configured to allow the coupling of said cap (1) to a container (2), by a pressure fit due to the complementarity of shape of the two parts configured to be coupled, characterized in that the inner cavity of the cap (1) is provided with one or more sets of micro-inserts (3) made of polymer material, secured to the coupling face of the inner cavity of the entire cap and positioned in a uniformly distributed manner, wherein the micro-inserts (3) have a proportion equal to or less than 5% of the weight of the entire cap (1).

2. Recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to claim 1, wherein the weight proportion of the micro-inserts (3) is equal to or less than 3% of the weight of the entire cap (1).

3. A recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the entire cap (1) is a single piece.

4. Recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the cap (1) is provided with an inner metal sheath (12), secured to the body or carcass (11) of the cap, to form the entire metal cap, so that the inner cavity of the cap (11) is the inner cavity (21) of the sheath (12) and the coupling face, that of the inner cavity of the sheath (12).

5. Recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the interior cavity (21), whether that of the body or carcass (11), or that of the lining (12), has a substantially circular cross-section incorporating rib-shaped protuberances (13), located closest to the projection of the coupling shapes of the container, the micro-inserts (3) being positioned in a uniformly distributed manner on said protuberances (13).

6. A recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each set of micro-inserts (3) comprises several micro-inserts configured so as to constitute a shape such as: - A spherical cap assembly; or - An elongated strip-like assembly; or A discontinuous assembly of micro-inserts positioned relative to each other, substantially on the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap on the container; and wherein the inner face (21) of the cap (1) has two or more independent sets of micro-inserts located at different heights, each set of micro-inserts being configured for a different function, so that said sets of micro-inserts (3) serve as scratch protection elements and are configured to allow coupling in the closure area.

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

8. A recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner cavity has a polygonal cross-section and micro-inserts at least positioned at points corresponding to the points of the coupling adjustment edges of the inner cavity, located closest to the projection of the coupling shape of the container.

9. Recyclable cap (1) for containers, according to claim 1, wherein the inner cavity has a triangular section with three micro-inserts (3) each positioned on each edge of said inner cavity, 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 composed of at least one accumulation of polymeric material, to form a protuberance emerging from their fixing position on the coupling face of the interior cavity (21) of the cap (1) towards the central axis of the coupling direction of the cap (1) on the container (2), wherein the micro-inserts (3) are mainly composed of an adhesive of the epoxy resin, modified epoxy acrylate resin or modified acrylate type.

11. Recyclable metal container and cap assembly, wherein said cap (1) is provided with a body or carcass (11) having an interior cavity (21) provided with closure adjustment elements, said inner cavity (21) being configured to allow the coupling of said cap (1) to a container (2) at an outlet zone (40) of the contents of the container itself (2), whether it is a ring or collar (4) for fixing the dispensing or dosing system, or a part of the body of the container (2) associated with said outlet zone (40), where the coupling is obtained by a pressure adjustment due to the complementarity of the shape of the two parts (1, 40); characterized in that the stopper (1) is as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. Recyclable metal container and cap assembly, according to claim 11, wherein the inner cavity (21) of the cap (1) coupled to the container (2) is provided with one or more sets of micro-inserts (3), secured to the coupling face of the inner cavity (21) of the cap and configured so as to remain positioned at the point (T) corresponding to a height of the cap determining the fitting of said sets of micro-inserts (3) on the outlet zone (40) of the contents of the container (20), at a closing point (P) on said outlet zone (40); where the configuration of each set of micro-inserts (3) is such that the free passage section (S) left between said sets of micro-inserts (3) in the interior cavity (21), is slightly smaller than the section occupied by a front zone (24) at the closing point (P) of the outlet zone (40) of the contents of the container (2); and where the zone of the cap (1) provided with the set(s) of micro-inserts (3) is configured to deform elastically and overlap this front zone (24).

13. A recyclable metal container and 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 a section substantially continuous with the front zone (24), without grooves, protuberances and recesses associated with the coupling point of the sets of micro-inserts (3) of the stopper (1), located at the beginning of said front zone (24) of a section larger than the free passage section (S) of the stopper (1); or - A recess (22) in the outlet zone (40) of the contents of the container (2) located posteriorly, in the direction of introduction of the stopper, to a front zone (24) of a section larger than the free passage section of the stopper (1), where the stopper and its sets of micro-inserts (3) are configured for their coupling in said recess (22), the recovery of the shape retaining the stopper (1) in said recess (22).

14. A recyclable metal container and cap assembly according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein each set of micro-inserts (3) is provided with several micro-inserts configured so as to constitute a shape such as: - A spherical cap assembly; or - An elongated band-like assembly; or - A discontinuous set of micro-inserts positioned substantially relative to each other on the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap on the container

15. Recyclable metal container and cap assembly, according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the inner face (21) of the cap (1) is provided with two or more sets of micro-inserts (3), where each set of micro-inserts (3) is positioned relative to each other on the same plane transverse to the coupling axis of the cap on the container and in turn, on the position corresponding to the determined point of interlocking of said sets of micro-inserts (3) at the closing point (P) of the outlet zone (40) of the contents of the container (2), in the closing position of the cap (1) on the container (2), so that said sets of micro-inserts (3) serve as auxiliary elements for protection against scratches and are configured to allow coupling in the closing zone.

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