Container closure

Abstract

A closure 10 for a container (12, fig 3) such as a bottle. The closure comprises a container engaging portion 14 with a first magnet (16, fig 3), and a token 18 with a second magnet (20, fig 4). When the token is positioned atop the container engaging portion, it is attracted toward the container engaging portion when orientated in a first direction and is repelled away from the container engaging portion when orientated in a second direction. A game with a spindle and token is also claimed.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The invention relates to a container closure. BACKGROUND The field of the present invention generally relates to container closures, and more specifically, to closures that utilize magnetic forces to provide added functionality to a container closure. Container closures are essential components in various industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and chemical sectors, among others. The primary function of a container closure is to provide a secure seal that protects the contents of the container from external contaminants, while also preventing leakage or spillage of the contents. Traditional container closures encompass a wide range of designs and mechanisms, such as screw caps, snap-on lids, stoppers, and press-fit closures. These closures typically rely on mechanical engagement between the closure and the container, which may involve threading, friction, or interlocking features. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the development of alternative closure systems that address the shortcomings of traditional closures. One such approach involves the use of magnetic forces to secure and release the lid of a container. Magnetic closures have been employed in various applications, such as packaging, purses, and electronic devices, due to their ease of use, durability, and reliability. By leveraging magnetic properties, these closures can provide a secure engagement between a closure and a container without the need for complex mechanical engagement or excessive force. Magnetic container closures are known and typically comprise a first magnet associated with the container and a second magnet associated with the closure. The magnets are arranged such that they attract each other when the lid is in a closed position, thereby securing the closure. It is against this background that the present invention has arisen. SUMMARY In general terms, the present disclosure is directed to a closure for a container that uses magnets to provide added functionality thereto. The closure comprises a container engaging portion and a token. Each component has a magnet that is attracted to the other when in one orientation and repelled when in the opposite orientation. Advantageously, the invention provides an integrated interactive game feature as part of a container closure. According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a closure for a container. The closure comprises a container engaging portion which includes a first magnet, and a token which includes a second magnet. When the token is positioned atop the container engaging portion, it is attracted toward the container engaging portion when orientated in a first direction and is repelled away from the container engaging portion when orientated in a second direction. Optionally, at least one side of the token comprises a plurality of regions radially divided and presented on a face of the stopper. Optionally, the container engaging portion comprises an indicator configured to indicate a region of the token that is aligned with the indicator. Optionally, the token may be spun relative to the container engaging portion. Optionally, the container engaging portion comprises a spindle projecting upwardly and the token comprises a central hole therethrough configured to receive the spindle. When in the second orientation, the token is free to rotate around the spindle and is laterally bound by the spindle. Optionally, the container engaging portion comprises a female thread configured to receive a male thread of a bottle. Optionally, the container engaging portion comprises a tapered or straight edged projection configured to be received within a neck of a bottle. Optionally, each of the regions of the token are weighted equally such that when the token is spun relative to the container engaging portion, there is an equal chance of each region aligning with the indicator of the container engaging portion when the token stops spinning. Optionally, at least one region of the token is weighted differently than the other regions, such that there is a different chance of it aligning with the indicator of the container engaging portion when the token stops spinning than other regions. Optionally, the indicator and / or the plurality of regions is photoluminescent. Optionally, at least one region of the token is of a different size compared to at least one other region of the plurality of regions. Optionally, the upper face and / or radial face of the container engaging portion comprises a plurality of regions radially divided and presented thereon and the upper face and / or radial face of the token comprises an indicator configured to indicate a region of the container engaging portion that the indicator is aligned with. Optionally, the token has an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the container engaging portion. Optionally, the token when in the second orientation is configured to float above an upper face of the container engaging portion. Optionally, the length of the spindle is selected based on the repelling strength of the first and second magnets. Optionally, the spindle further comprises a cap or cover with an outer diameter larger than the diameter of the hole in the token to hold the token captive axially relative to the container engaging portion. According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a game apparatus. The game apparatus comprises a base configured to be engaged by a surface or an object. The base comprises a first of a spindle extending upwardly therefore or an aperture therethrough and defining a magnet having a first polarity. The game apparatus further comprises a token. The token comprises a second of a spindle extending therefrom and an aperture therethrough and defining a second magnet having a second polarity. The token can engage the base in a first orientation in which the first polarity and second polarity are opposite, and the token is attracted towards the base, and in a second orientation in which the first polarity and second polarity are the same and the token is repelled away from the base. Optionally, when the token is in the second orientation and the aperture of either the base or token is engaged by the spindle of the other of the base or token, the token may be spun relative to the base. Optionally, one of the base or the token comprises an indicator and the other of the aperture or the token comprises a series of regions such that when the token is spun relative to the base, the indicator aligns with a region to indicate that an activity should be undertaken. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The above and other objects and advantages of the invention of the disclosures will be apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 illustratively shows a closure for a container in a first configuration according to the present disclosure. Figure 2 illustratively shows a closure for a container in a second configuration according to the present disclosure. Figure 3 shows a side view of a first part of a closure for a container according to the present disclosure. Figure 4 shows a side view of a second part of a closure for a container according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Figures 1 to 4 illustratively show a closure (10) for a container (12) according to the present disclosure. The closure (10) comprises a container engaging portion (14) including a first magnet (16) and a token (18) including a second magnet (20). When the token (18) is positioned atop the container engaging portion (14), it is attracted toward the container engaging portion (14) when orientated in a first direction and is repelled away from the container engaging portion (14) when orientated in a second direction. Advantageously, the innovative use of magnets in the closure (10) provides numerous benefits, including a secure and reliable connection between the container engaging portion (14) and the token (18). The magnetic attraction between the first and second magnets, which can be of varying strengths and sizes depending on the specific application, ensures that the closure (10) remains firmly in place when the token (18) is in the first orientation. This is effective in ensuring the token does not become dislodged and lost during storage and transport. Furthermore, the closure (10) of the present invention can be designed to accommodate various types of containers, such as bottles, jars, or boxes, and can be easily adapted to suit different materials, including glass, plastic, or metal. This versatility makes the closure (10) of the present invention flexible in terms of applications across a wide range of product and packaging types. The closure (10) offers a user-friendly experience. When the token (18) is in the second orientation, the repelling force between the magnets allows for easy spinning of the token (18) without the need for excessive force or complex mechanisms. Moreover, the closure (10) can be designed with various aesthetic and functional features, such as textured surfaces for improved grip, or decorative elements that enhance the overall appearance of the container (12). These additional features can be tailored to suit specific branding or marketing requirements, making the closure (10) an attractive option for businesses looking to differentiate their products in a competitive marketplace. In terms of manufacturing, the closure (10) can be produced using a variety of methods, such as injection moulding, extrusion, or 3D printing, depending on the specific materials and design requirements. This flexibility in production allows for cost-effective manufacturing and scalability. In some embodiments, at least one side of the token (18) with a plurality of regions radially divided and presented on a face of the stopper. Advantageously, the radially divided regions on the token (18) provide a visual and functional aspect to the closure (10). These regions can be used as part of a game or promotional activity. The radial division of the regions also allows for easy alignment with the indicator on the container engaging portion (14) to facilitate simple, effective and unambiguous game play. In some embodiments, the container engaging portion (14) comprises an indicator configured to indicate a region of the token (18) that is aligned with the indicator. Advantageously, the inclusion of an indicator on the container engaging portion (14) provides a clear and easily visible reference point for users to align the token (18) with the container engaging portion (14). This ensures proper positioning of the closure (10) and is used in conjunction with the radially divided regions on the token (18) for various purposes. In some embodiments, the token (18) may be spun relative to the container engaging portion (14) when orientated in the second direction. Advantageously, the ability to spin the token (18) relative to the container engaging portion (14) adds an interactive and engaging element to the closure (10). This feature can be used for various purposes, such as games, promotions, or simply as a fun and unique way to open and close the container (12). In some embodiments, the container engaging portion (14) comprises a spindle (22) projecting upwardly therefrom and the token (18) comprises a central hole (24) therethrough configured to receive the spindle (22) of the container engaging portion (14). When in the second orientation, the token (18) is free to rotate around the spindle (22) and is laterally bound by the spindle (22). Advantageously, the spindle (22) and central hole (24) design provide a simple and effective means of engaging the token (18) with the container engaging portion (14) while still allowing for rotation. This design ensures that the token (18) remains securely attached to the container engaging portion (14) while in the second orientation, reducing the risk of accidental detachment or loss of the token (18) when it is spun. In some embodiments, the container engaging portion (14) comprises a female thread configured to receive a male thread of a container (12). Advantageously, the use of threaded connections between the container engaging portion (14) and the container (12) itself provides a secure and reliable means of attaching the closure (10) to the container. This design ensures that the closure (10) remains firmly in place during use, preventing accidental spillage or contamination of the container's (12) contents. In some embodiments, the container engaging portion (14) comprises a tapered or straight edged projection (30) configured to be received within a neck of a container (12). Advantageously, the tapered or straight edged projection (30) design allows for a secure and snug fit between the container engaging portion (14) and the neck of the container (12). This design ensures that the closure (10) remains firmly in place during use, preventing accidental spillage or contamination of the container's (12) contents. In some embodiments, when the token (18) is spun relative to the container engaging portion (14) there is an equal chance of each region aligning with the indicator of the container engaging portion (14) when the token (18) stops spinning. Advantageously, this feature ensures that the closure (10) can be used fairly and consistently for various purposes, such as games or promotions. By providing an equal chance of each region aligning with the indicator, users can be confident that the closure (10) is unbiased and reliable in its operation. In some embodiments, the token (18) has at least one region that is weighted differently than the other regions, such that the at least one region has a different chance of aligning with the indicator of the container engaging portion (14) when the token (18) stops spinning than other regions. Advantageously, the inclusion of a differently weighted region on the token (18) allows for the creation of a biased or "loaded" token (18), which can be useful in certain applications, such as promotional events or games where a specific outcome is desired. By adjusting the weight distribution of the regions on the token (18), the probability of each region aligning with the indicator can be controlled, providing a customizable and versatile experience. In some embodiments, the indicator and / or the plurality of regions is photoluminescent. Advantageously, the use of photoluminescent materials for the indicator and / or regions on the token (18) and container engagement portion (14) enhances the visibility and aesthetic appeal of the closure (10), particularly in low-light conditions. This feature can be especially useful for promotional events or games, where increased visibility and attention-grabbing design elements are desirable. In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of regions of the rotatable disc is of a different size compared to at least one other region of the plurality of regions. Advantageously, the use of differently sized regions on the token (18) allows for further customization and versatility in use the closure (10). For example, a desired outcome for a game or promotional activity may dictate use of a larger region on the token (18) than for an outcome that is less desirable. In some embodiments, the closure (10) for a container comprises an upper face and / or radial face of the container engaging portion (14) with a plurality of regions (26) radially divided and presented thereon, and an upper face and / or radial face of the token (18) with an indicator configured to indicate a region of the container engaging portion (14) that the indicator is aligned with. This configuration provides a clear and easily visible alignment system, ensuring that there is no ambiguity in perceived alignment between the container engaging portion (14) and token (18). In some embodiments, the token (18) has an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the container engaging portion (14). Advantageously, this design ensures a seamless and aesthetically pleasing appearance for the closure (10), with the token (18) and container engaging portion (14) appearing as a single, unified component when the closure (10) is in place. In some embodiments, the token (18) when in the second orientation is configured to float above an upper face of the container engaging portion (14). Advantageously, the floating design of the token (18) in the second orientation allows for easy and smooth rotation of the token (18) relative to the container engaging portion (14). This feature enhances the interactive and engaging nature of the closure (10), providing a satisfying user experience when spinning the token (18) for various purposes, such as games or promotional activities. In some embodiments, the length of the spindle is selected based on the repelling strength of the first and second magnets. Advantageously, the careful selection of spindle (22) length based on the magnetic repelling strength ensures that the token (18) remains securely attached to the container engaging portion (14) while still allowing for smooth and easy rotation. In some embodiments, the spindle (22) further comprises a cap or cover (not shown) with an outer diameter greater than the diameter of the hole through the token (18), so as to hold the token (18) captive axially relative to the container engaging portion (14). Advantageously, the inclusion of a cap or cover on the spindle (22) ensures that the token (18) remains securely attached to the container engaging portion (14), preventing accidental detachment or loss of the token (18). In some embodiments, the aperture (24) of either the container engaging portion (14) or token (18) is engaged by the spindle (22) of the other of the base or token (18), allowing for the token (18) to be spun relative to the base. Advantageously, the ability to spin the token relative to the container engaging portion (14) adds an interactive and engaging element to the game apparatus. This feature can be used for various purposes, such as determining a player's turn, selecting a random game action, or simply as a fun and unique way to interact with a game. The spindle and aperture design provide a simple and effective interface between the token (18) and container engaging portion (14). In some embodiments, one of the container engaging portion (14) or the token (18) comprises an indicator (28) and the other of the container engaging portion (14) or the token (18) comprises a series of regions (26) such that when the token (18) is spun relative to the container engaging portion (14), the indicator (28) aligns with a region (26) to indicate that an activity should be undertaken. Advantageously, the inclusion of an indicator (28) and a series of regions (26) on the container engaging portion (14) or token (18) provides a clear and easily visible reference point for users to determine the outcome of the spinning action. This ensures proper functioning of the closure (10) and can be used for various purposes, such as determining a player's turn, selecting a random game action, or providing a visual cue for a specific activity. The use of an indicator (28) and regions (26) also adds an element of chance and unpredictability to the game, increasing the overall enjoyment and engagement for players. It will be understood that the term photoluminescent as used herein may refer to a material or substance that absorbs light energy and re-emits it as visible light, often used in glow-in-the-dark applications, such as safety signs, watch dials, and various consumer products. It will be understood that the term floating as used herein may refer to the state or position of the token (18) relative to the container engaging portion (14), where it is neither fully attracted nor repelled by the container, allowing for smooth rotation and adjustment of the magnetic force between the token (18) and the container engaging portion (14). It will be appreciated by the person of skill in the art that various modifications may be made to the above-described examples without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Although combinations of features are recited in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification, these combinations are not intended to limit the disclosure of various implementations. In fact, many of these features may be combined in ways not specifically recited in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification. Although each dependent claim listed below may directly depend on only one claim, the disclosure of various implementations includes each dependent claim in combination with every other claim in the claim set. No element, act, or instruction used herein should be construed as critical or essential unless explicitly described as such. Also, as used herein, the articles “a” and “an” are intended to include one or more items and may be used interchangeably with “one or more.” Further, as used herein, the article “the” is intended to include one or more items referenced in connection with the article “the” and may be used interchangeably with “the one or more.” Furthermore, as used herein, the term “set” is intended to include one or more items (e.g., related items, unrelated items, a combination of related and unrelated items, and / or the like), and may be used interchangeably with “one or more.” Where only one item is intended, the phrase “only one” or similar language is used. Also, as used herein, the terms “has,” “have,” “having,” or the like are intended to be open-ended terms. Further, the phrase “based on” is intended to mean “based, at least in part, on” unless explicitly stated otherwise. Also, as used herein, the term “or” is intended to be inclusive when used in a series and may be used interchangeably with “and / or,” unless explicitly stated otherwise (e.g., if used in combination with “either” or “only one of’).

Claims

1. A closure for a container comprising:a container engaging portion including a first magnet;a token including a second magnet;wherein the token, when positioned atop the container engaging portion is attracted toward the container engaging portion when orientated in a first direction and is repelled away from the container engaging portion when orientated in a second direction.

2. A closure for a container according to claim 1, wherein at least one side of the token comprises a plurality of regions radially divided and presented on a face thereof.

3. A closure for a container according to claim 2, wherein the container engaging portion comprises an indicator configured to indicate a region of the token that is aligned with the indicator.

4. A closure for a container according to claim 3, wherein the token, when orientated in the second direction may be spun relative to the container engaging portion.

5. A closure for a container according to claim 1 wherein the container engaging portion comprises a spindle projecting upwardly therefrom and the token comprises a central hole therethrough configured to receive the spindle of the container engaging portion, wherein the token when in the second orientation is free to rotate around the spindle and is laterally bound by the spindle.

6. A closure for a container according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the container engaging portion comprises a female thread configured to receive a male thread of a bottle.

7. A closure for a container according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the container engaging portion comprises a tapered or straight edged projection configured to be received within a neck of a bottle.

8. A closure for a container according to claim 4, wherein each of the regions is weighted equally such that when the stopper is spun relative to the container engaging portion there is an equal chance of each region aligning with the indicator of the container engaging portion when the stopper stops spinning.

9. A closure for a container according to any of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one region is weighted differently to the other regions such that the at least one region that is weighted differently has a different chance of aligning with the indicator of the container engaging portion when stopper stops spinning than other regions.

10. A closure for a container according to claim 4 wherein the indicator and / or the plurality of regions is photoluminescent.

11. A closure for a container according to claim 4, wherein at least one of the plurality of regions of the rotatable disc is of a different size compared to at least one other region of the plurality of regions.

12. A closure for a container according to claim 1, wherein an upper face and / or radial face of the container engaging portion comprises a plurality of regions radially divided and presented thereon and an upper face and / or radial face of the token comprises an indicator configured to indicate a region of the container engaging portion that the indicator is aligned with.

13. A closure for a container according to any preceding claim, wherein the token has an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the container engaging portion.

14. A closure for a container according to claim 13, wherein the token when in the second orientation is configured to float above an upper face of the container engaging portion.

15. A closure for a container according to claim 14, wherein the length of the spindle is selected based on the repelling strength of the first and second magnets.

16. A closure for a container according to claim 5, wherein the spindle further comprises a cap, or cover, having an outer diameter greater than the diameter of the hole through the token so as to hold the token captive axially relative to the container engaging portion.

17. A game apparatus comprising:a base configured to be engaged by a surface or an object, the base comprising a first of a spindle extending upwardly therefore or an aperture therethrough and defining a magnet having a first polarity; anda token comprising a second of a spindle extending therefrom and an aperture therethrough and defining a second magnet having a second polarity, the token being capable of engaging the base in a first orientation in which the first polarity and second polarity are opposite and the token is attracted towards the base and in a second orientation in which the first polarity and second polarity are the same and the token is repelled away from the base.

18. A game apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the token is in the second orientation and the aperture of either the base or token is engaged by the spindle of the other of the base or token, the token may be spun relative to the base.

19. A game apparatus according to claim 17 or claim 18, wherein one of the base or the token comprises an indicator and the other of the aperture or the token comprises a series of regions such that when the token is spun relative to the base, the indicator aligns with a region to indicate that an activity should be undertaken.

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