Spout for package and package-spout assembly

Abstract

To provide a package-spout assembly clearly and at low cost.SOLUTION: A spout includes: a base frame fitted in around a pouring opening region of a package; an opening assembly which is movably connected to the base frame, and which is fitted so as to cut, rupture, open or pierce the designated opening region at least partially; and a control device constituted so as to control the opening assembly between a stop constitution and an actuation constitution. The control device includes: at least one mutual action element connected to the opening assembly; at least one control ring rotatably connected to the base frame; and at least one mutual action member continued or connected to the control ring and constituted so as to mutually act. When used, the mutual action member mutually acts with the mutual action element so as to induce translation of a cutter of the opening assembly, and an axial end portion of the mutual action member is arranged in a rotation surface fixed with respect to the base frame.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a spout for a package, particularly a package filled with a pourable product, and even more particularly a package filled with a pourable food product.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a package-spout assembly having a package, particularly a package filled with a pourable product, and even more particularly a package filled with a pourable food product, and a spout disposed on the package. [Background technology]

[0003] As is known, many liquid or pourable food products, such as fruit juice, UHT (Ultra High Temperature Treated) milk, wine, tomato sauce, etc., are sold in packages made of sterilized packaging material.

[0004] A typical example is the parallelepiped-shaped package for pourable food products known as Tetrabrik Aseptic®, which is made by sealing and folding a laminated strip packaging material. The packaging material has a multi-layer structure including a cardboard and / or paper-based layer covered on both sides with a layer of heat-sealed plastic material, e.g. polyethylene. In the case of aseptic packages for long-term storage products, the packaging material also includes a layer of oxygen-barrier material, such as aluminum foil, superimposed on the layer of heat-sealed plastic material, which is then covered with another layer of heat-sealed plastic material that ultimately forms the inner surface of the package that contacts the food product.

[0005] Some versions of these packages include a designated pouring opening area that is pierceable and / or burstable and a spout fitted to the package.

[0006] A typical spout includes a base frame having a collar that fits around a designated pouring opening area and defines an interior space and a spout, a ring-shaped cutter that is movably positioned within the interior space, and a threaded lid that screws onto the collar to close or open the spout.

[0007] The lid also includes a plurality of flaps that protrude from the lid into the interior space when the lid is placed against the collar and are configured to contact a respective interacting element of the cutter. During initial unscrewing of the lid, each flap interacts with a respective interacting element to induce rotational translation of the cutter to direct the cutter toward and through the designated pour opening area. The rotational translation of the cutter is also defined by a cam mechanism, one portion of which is provided on the inner surface of the collar and another portion of which is provided on an outer surface of the cutter facing the inner surface of the collar.

[0008] A drawback of these types of spouts is seen in that control of the cutter requires the lid to be separated, which can lead to the lid being lost. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide, in a clear and low-cost manner, an improved spout, particularly for sealed packages filled with pourable products, and even more particularly filled with pourable food products.

[0010] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a package-spout assembly having a spout and a sealed package, particularly filled with a pourable product, and more particularly filled with a pourable food product, in an elegant and low-cost manner. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] According to the present invention there is provided a spout as claimed in the independent claim.

[0012] Further advantageous embodiments of the spout are specified in the dependent claims.

[0013] According to the present invention there is also provided a package-spout assembly as claimed in claim 16.

[0014] Two non-limiting embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view, with parts removed for clarity, of a package-spout assembly having a spout according to a first embodiment of the invention arranged in a first configuration; [Diagram 2] 2 is a schematic perspective view of the package-spout assembly of FIG. 1 with parts removed for clarity, the spout being arranged in a second configuration; FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the package-spout assembly of FIG. 1 with parts removed for clarity, the spout being arranged in a third configuration; [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the spout of FIGS. 1-3 with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 5a-5b] 5A-5C are perspective views, with parts removed for clarity, of details of the spout of FIGS. 1-4 arranged in a first and second configuration, respectively; [Figure 6a-6b] 5 is a perspective view of further details of the spout of FIGS. 1-4 arranged in a first and second configuration, respectively, with parts removed for clarity; FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a detail of the spout of FIGS. 1-4, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 8] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of further detail of the spout of FIGS. 1-4, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 9]FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view, with parts removed for clarity, of a package-spout assembly having a spout according to a second embodiment of the invention arranged in a first configuration; [Figure 10] FIG. 20 is a schematic perspective view of the package-spout assembly of FIG. 18 with parts removed for clarity, the spout being arranged in a second configuration. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the spout of FIGS. 9 and 10 with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a detail of the spout of FIGS. 9-11 with parts removed for clarity. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] The numeral 1 generally denotes a package-spout assembly, - a sealed package 2, in particular a sealed cardboard package, having a designated pouring opening area (not shown, but known as such), - a spout 3, in particular a plastic spout, fitted to the package 2 around a designated pouring opening area; 1 shows a package-spout assembly including:

[0017] Preferably, but not necessarily, the package 2 is filled with a pourable product, in particular a pourable food product, and even more particularly a pasteurized and / or pasteurized pourable food product, such as milk or fruit juice.

[0018] The package 2 is obtained from a web of packaging material (not shown) having a multi-layer structure, including at least one layer of fibrous material, such as paper or cardboard, and at least two layers of heat-sealable plastic material, such as polyethylene, between which the layers of fibrous material are interposed. One of the two layers of heat-sealable plastic material defines the inner surface of the package 2 that is in contact with the pourable product.

[0019] Preferably, but not necessarily, the web of packaging material also comprises a layer of gas and light-shielding material, such as aluminum foil or an ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film, in particular arranged between one of the layers of heat-sealing plastic material and the layer of fibrous material. Preferentially, but not necessarily, the web of packaging material also comprises a further layer of heat-sealing plastic material interposed between the layer of gas and light-shielding material and the layer of fibrous material.

[0020] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the spout 3 is attached to the package 2 before, during or after the forming, filling and sealing of the package 2 by a molding process and / or adhesive bonding and / or welded bonding.

[0021] Alternatively, the spout 3 may be attached to the web of packaging material before the web of packaging material is placed into the packaging machine or while the web of packaging material is advancing through the packaging machine to form, fill and seal the packages 2 from the web of packaging material.

[0022] With particular reference to FIGS. 1 and 3, the package 2 extends along a longitudinal axis A.

[0023] Preferentially, but not necessarily, the package 2 is parallelepiped shaped.

[0024] In particular, the designated pour opening area of ​​the package 2 is configured to be at least partially (irreversibly) opened and / or ruptured and / or cut and / or pierced to allow the flow of pourable product from the package 2, in particular through the spout 3. Even more particularly, the designated pour opening area is configured to allow the flow of pourable product after loss of its integrity, and to protect the pourable product from the outside environment prior to cutting and / or opening and / or rupturing and / or piercing it.

[0025] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the designated pour opening area comprises a separator membrane (not shown, known) configured to be ruptured and / or opened and / or cut and / or pierced. In particular, the separator membrane separates the inside of the package 2 from the outside of the package 2 in the area of ​​the designated pour opening area, in particular at the designated pour opening area. Preferentially, but not necessarily, the separator membrane comprises a gas and light shielding material, such as an aluminum foil or an ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film.

[0026] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the separator membrane is defined by a portion of the web of packaging material, in particular a portion of the web of packaging material distinct from the layer of fibrous material.

[0027] With particular reference to FIG. 4, the spout 3 comprises at least: - a base frame 4 configured to fit around a designated pour opening area of ​​the package 2; - an opening assembly 5 movably connected to the base frame 4 and adapted to at least partially cut and / or burst and / or open and / or pierce a designated pouring opening area; a control device configured to interact with the opening assembly 5 and to control the opening assembly 5 between a stop configuration, in particular in which the opening assembly 5 is retracted from the designated pour opening area when the base frame 4 is fitted around the designated pour opening area, in particular the separator membrane (i.e. the opening assembly 5 does not open and / or cut and / or rupture and / or pierce the designated pour opening area, in particular the separator membrane, when controlled in the stop configuration) and an activation configuration, in which the opening assembly 5 is configured to at least partially cut and / or rupture and / or open and / or pierce the designated pour opening area, in particular the separator membrane, when the base frame 4 is fitted around the designated pour opening area, in particular the separator membrane, in use; Includes.

[0028] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the spout 3 also includes an outlet cap 6 configured to allow the pourable product to flow out of the package 2 when the spout 3 is disposed in the package and when, in use, the designated pour opening area, in particular the separator membrane, is at least partially opened and / or cut and / or ruptured and / or perforated.

[0029] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the spout 3 also includes a lid assembly 7 for at least selectively closing or opening the outlet cap 6, the lid assembly 7 being controllable at least between a closed configuration (see FIG. 1 ) in which the lid assembly 7 closes and / or covers the outlet cap 6, particularly to prevent the exit of the pourable product from the package 2, and an open configuration (see FIG. 3 ) in which the lid assembly 7 opens the outlet cap 6, particularly to allow the exit of the pourable product from the package 2.

[0030] With particular reference to Figures 4, 6a and 6b, the base frame 4 includes a connecting base 11 configured to couple and / or connect the spout 3 to the package 2, and a collar 12 that defines and / or bounds an interior space 13 and is connected to the connecting base 11.

[0031] Preferentially, but not necessarily, the connecting base 11 is configured and / or fixed to the outer surface of the package 2, in particular in the area of ​​the designated pour opening area, and even more particularly at the designated pour opening area.

[0032] In particular, the connecting base 11 includes an opening, in particular a circular opening, and a collar 12 surrounding the opening, such that, in use, when the designated pouring opening area is opened and / or cut and / or ruptured and / or perforated and the spout 3 is engaged with the package 2, a fluid connection is established between the interior of the package 2 and the interior space 13 (i.e., the pourable product may flow into at least a portion of the interior space 13).

[0033] Preferentially, but not necessarily, at least a part of the connecting base 11 has a substantially plate-like configuration.

[0034] Preferentially, the collar 12 extends, in particular from the connection base 11, along a longitudinal axis B, in particular parallel to the longitudinal axis B, in particular the longitudinal axis B being the central axis of the collar 12, but this is not necessarily the case.

[0035] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the collar 12 has a circular shape, in particular a circular cross-sectional shape, in a plane perpendicular to the axis B.

[0036] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, collar 12 includes an inner surface 14 facing toward interior space 13, and an outer surface 15 opposite inner surface 14 (and interior space 13).

[0037] With particular reference to Figures 4, 5a and 5b, at least a portion of the aperture assembly 5 is configured to at least translate, in particular rotate and translate, to control the aperture assembly 5 from an at rest configuration to an actuated configuration.

[0038] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the opening assembly 5 comprises a (ring-shaped) cutter 16, at least a cutting section 17 (at the axial end portion of the cutter 16) of the cutter 16 adapted to open and / or cut and / or rupture and / or perforate a designated pouring opening area, in particular the separation membrane.

[0039] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, in use, while controlling the opening assembly 5 from the stopped configuration to the actuated configuration, at least the cutter 16 approaches the designated pour opening area, in particular the separation membrane, until it contacts and preferentially at least partially penetrates the designated pour opening area, in particular the separation membrane.

[0040] In particular, the cutter 16 is movable between a rest position in which the operative assembly 5 is in a rest configuration and an operative position in which the operative assembly 5 is in an operative configuration. In particular, with the spout 3 disposed in the package 2, the cutter 16 is spaced and / or spaced from a designated pouring opening area, in particular the separator membrane, when disposed in the rest position, and cuts and / or opens and / or ruptures and / or pierces the designated pouring opening area, in particular the separator membrane, when disposed in the operative position.

[0041] Preferentially, but not necessarily, the cutter 16 includes an outer surface 18 and an inner surface 19 .

[0042] Preferentially, but not necessarily, the cutting section 17 has (includes) a sawtooth profile.

[0043] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, at least a portion of the opening assembly 5, in particular the cutter 16, is movably disposed within the interior space 13. In particular, the cutter 16, and even more particularly at least the outer surface 18, is at least partially in contact with the inner surface 14.

[0044] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the cutter 16 is configured to at least translate, in particular rotate and translate, upon actuation of the control device to move from a stopped position to an active position (i.e., when, in use, the active assembly 5 is controlled from the stopped configuration to the active configuration).

[0045] More specifically, the cutter 16 is rotatable about its own central axis C, in particular, axis C being parallel to axis B, and even more specifically coaxial with axis B, and is configured to move along a direction D parallel to axis C (and B), in particular towards (and through) a designated pour opening area, in particular the separation membrane.

[0046] In particular, the control device is configured to actuate rotation of the cutter 16 about axis C and translation of the cutter 16 along direction D to control the opening assembly 5 from an at rest configuration to an activated configuration, in use.

[0047] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the control device includes a set of cams configured to guide the movement of the cutter 16 from a rest position to an active position.

[0048] Preferentially, but not necessarily, the cam group includes a cam profile 20 and at least one, and preferentially a plurality of, guide elements 21, which are configured to cooperate with each other to guide the cutter 16 during movement between the rest position and the operating position.

[0049] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the cam profile 20 and the guide element 21 cooperate in such a way that the cutter 16 performs a rotational translational movement when moving from a rest position to an active position, in use.

[0050] Preferentially, the cam profile 20 is associated with and / or connected to and / or integral with the cutter 16, and more particularly with the outer surface 18. In particular, the cam profile 20 protrudes from and / or is integral with the cutter 16, and in particular with the outer surface 18, but this is not necessarily the case.

[0051] Preferentially, but not necessarily, the guide element 21 is connected to and / or associated with and / or integrated with the base frame 4, in particular the collar 12, and even more particularly the inner surface 14. In particular, the guide element 21 protrudes from and / or is integrated into the inner surface 14.

[0052] With particular reference to Figures 4, 6a and 6b, the outlet caps 6 are rotatably connected to the base frame 4, and in particular to the collar 12, such that in particular the outlet caps 6 are rotatable about a respective axis of rotation E.

[0053] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment and as further described in more detail below, the outlet cap 6 carries and / or includes at least a portion of the control device, and in particular, each portion of the control device is integrated into the outlet cap 6.

[0054] More specifically, the spout 3, and in particular the outlet cap 6, includes a pouring outlet 26 configured to allow for the controlled outflow of the pourable product.

[0055] Even more specifically, the outlet cap 6 includes a connecting ring 27 configured to rotatably connect the outlet cap 6 itself to the collar 12, and a stub 28, in particular realised as a mouthpiece, preferably, although not necessarily, having a spout 26.

[0056] Preferentially, but not necessarily, the connecting ring 27 contacts at least the collar 12, in particular at least the outer surface 15, and even more particularly the outer surface 15 and the inner surface 14.

[0057] In particular, the inner surface of each of the connecting rings 27 faces towards the outer surface 15 and in particular is at least partially in contact with the outer surface 15 .

[0058] In particular, the coupling ring 27 at least partially surrounds a portion of the collar 12 .

[0059] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the coupling ring 27 is coaxial with the collar 12 .

[0060] With particular reference to Figures 4, 5a, 5b, 6a and 6b, the control device comprises: a plurality of interacting elements 29 connected, in particular integrated, to the opening assembly 5, in particular to the cutter 16; at least one control ring rotatably connected to the base frame 4, in particular to the collar 12, in particular around a rotation axis F parallel to the axis B and / or the axis C and / or the axis E, and more particularly coaxial with the axis B and / or the axis C and / or the axis E; a plurality of interaction members 30 connected and / or coupled to the control ring, each interaction member 30 being configured to interact with one respective interaction element 29; Includes.

[0061] In particular, each interaction member 30 is coupled and / or connected to a control ring such that rotation of the control ring about axis F induces rotation of the interaction member 30 also about axis F.

[0062] In particular, the interaction elements 29 and the interaction members 30 interact with one another such that, in use, upon rotation of the control ring about rotation axis F, the cutter 16 translates at least from a parked position to an actuated position. In particular, the interaction of the interaction elements 29 and the interaction members 30 is such that, in use, upon rotation of the control ring, a rotational translational movement of the cutter 16 is caused to move the cutter 16 from a parked position to an actuated position. Even more specifically, in use, upon rotation of the control ring, the cutter 16 translates along direction D and rotates about axis C.

[0063] Preferentially, but not necessarily, the rotational translational movement of the cutter 16 is guided by cooperation of the guide element 21 and the cam profile 20 .

[0064] Each interacting member 30 includes an axial end portion 31 that is disposed distally relative to the control ring, in particular in a plane of rotation perpendicular to the axis of rotation F, and which, in use, is fixed relative to the base frame 4 and / or package 2 and / or designated pour opening area upon rotation of the control ring about the axis of rotation F. In other words, the interacting members 30 and respective axial end portions 31 do not translate relative to the base frame 4 and / or package 2 and / or designated pour opening area.

[0065] According to the disclosed preferred, non-limiting embodiment, each interaction member 30 rotates about axis F upon rotation of the control ring about axis F, in use.

[0066] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, in use, rotation of the control ring and interaction member 30 about axis F is translated into at least a translational, preferentially a rotational translational, movement of the cutter 16 by interaction between the interaction member 30 and the interaction element 29 and cooperation between the cam profile 20 and the guide element 21.

[0067] According to the disclosed preferred and non-limiting embodiment, the control ring is defined by a part of the outlet cap 6, in particular the connecting ring 27, such that rotation of the control ring about axis F is actuated, in use, by rotation of the outlet cap 6 about rotation axis E. Additionally, an interaction member 30 is connected to the part of the outlet cap 6 that defines the control ring. In other words, the outlet cap 6 includes the control ring.

[0068] Alternatively, the control ring may be different from the outlet cap 6 .

[0069] Preferentially, but not necessarily, each interacting element 29 is disposed on the inner surface 19 of the cutter 16. In particular, each interacting element 29 protrudes away from the inner surface 19.

[0070] Preferentially, but not necessarily, in use, each interacting element 29 contacts a respective interacting member 30 when controlling the operative assembly 5 from the rest configuration to the actuated configuration.

[0071] Preferentially, but not necessarily, each interaction element 30 protrudes and / or extends from the control ring, in particular the outlet cap 6 , into the interior space 13 .

[0072] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, each interaction member 30 includes an engagement surface 37 in contact with a respective interaction element 29. In particular, each engagement surface 37 has a profile that is inclined with respect to the axis F.

[0073] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, in use, during movement of the cutter 16 from the parked position to the activated position, each interaction element 29 slides along its respective engagement surface 37. In particular, while the interaction member 30 and the respective engagement surface 37 undergo only rotational movement about axis F, the interaction element 29 undergoes both rotation about axis F and translation along direction D.

[0074] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, each interacting member 30 is realized in the form of a flap.

[0075] According to alternative non-limiting embodiments, each interacting member 30 may be realized in any other way, for example in the form of a guide bar.

[0076] With particular reference to FIG. 7, the spout 3 also includes a connecting group 38 configured to connect the control ring and / or outlet cap 6 to the base frame 4 in a manner such that the control ring and / or outlet cap 6 are rotatable about axes F and E, respectively, and translation of the control ring and / or outlet cap 6 relative to the base frame 4 is blocked and / or prevented.

[0077] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the linking group 38 is at least one groove having: - a base frame 4 and / or a collar 12 and / or an outer surface 15, and - the control ring and / or the outlet cap 6 and / or the connecting ring 27 and / or the inner surface of the connecting ring 27 The at least one groove is associated with and / or connected to one of the

[0078] In particular, the linking group 38 also comprises at least one, and preferentially a plurality of, engagement members 40 configured and / or adapted to engage with the grooves; - a base frame 4 and / or a collar 12 and / or an outer surface 15, and - the control ring and / or the outlet cap 6 and / or the connecting ring 27 and / or the inner surface of the connecting ring 27 . . . , at least one, and preferentially a plurality of, engagement members 40 associated with one another of the first and second engagement members 40 .

[0079] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the groove has an annular shape.

[0080] According to an alternative embodiment not shown, the groove may have an arcuate profile or may include multiple arcuate sections.

[0081] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, each engagement member 40 has an arcuate profile.

[0082] According to an alternative embodiment, the engagement member 40 may have a circular shape.

[0083] With particular reference to FIG. 7, the groove is disposed in the base frame 4 , in particular in the collar 12 , and even more particularly in the outer surface 15 .

[0084] According to the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the linking group 38 includes two annular projections 39 spaced apart from one another and projecting from the base frame 24, particularly the collar 12, and even more particularly from the outer surface 15, and defining a groove.

[0085] Preferentially, the groove and / or the annular projection 39 are integral with the base frame 4, but this is not necessarily the case.

[0086] With particular reference to FIG. 7 , each engagement member 40 is disposed on the inner surface of the control ring and / or outlet cap 6 and / or connecting ring 27 and / or connecting ring 27 and protrudes from the inner surface of the control ring and / or outlet cap 6 and / or connecting ring 27 and / or connecting ring 27 into a groove.

[0087] Preferentially, but not necessarily, each engagement member 40 is integral with the control ring and / or the outlet cap 6 and / or the connecting ring 27 and / or with an inner surface of the connecting ring 27 .

[0088] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the control device further comprises at least one engagement element 32 connected to the control ring, in particular the outlet cap 6, and at least a first abutment element 33 and at least a second abutment element 34, which are coupled and / or connected and / or arranged on the base frame 4 and configured to interact with the engagement element 32 and to cooperate to define an angled start position and an angled end position, respectively, of the control ring, in particular also of the outlet cap 6.

[0089] In particular, with the control ring disposed in the angled start position and the angled end position, the outlet assembly 5 is controlled in a rest position and an active position, respectively, to control the opening assembly and / or cutter 16 in a rest configuration and an active configuration, respectively. In use, the control ring, and in particular the outlet cap 6, is rotated from the angled start position to the angled end position to control the outlet assembly 5 from the rest configuration to the active configuration and / or the cutter 16 from the rest position to the active position.

[0090] Preferentially, but not necessarily, the angled start position and the angled end position are defined by the engagement element 32 contacting the first abutment element 33 and the second abutment element 34 respectively.

[0091] According to the illustrated preferred and non-limiting embodiment, the engagement element 32 is at least partially interposed between the first abutment element 33 and the second abutment element 34 .

[0092] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the first abutment element 33 and the second abutment element 34 are arranged such that, in use, a rotation of the control ring, in particular also the outlet cap 6, of 160° to 200°, in particular substantially 180°, controls the control ring, in particular also the outlet cap 6, from an angled start position to an angled end position.

[0093] More specifically, the first abutment element 33 and the second abutment element 34 are arranged on the collar 12, in particular on the outer surface 15. In particular, the first abutment element 33 and the second abutment element 34 are angularly displaced with respect to each other.

[0094] Preferentially, the first abutment element 33 and the second abutment element 34 are integral with the base frame 4 and in particular with the collar 12, although this is not necessarily the case.

[0095] With particular reference to Figures 4 and 8, the lid assembly 7 is configured to at least selectively close and open the spout 26 (when controlled in a closed configuration and an open configuration, respectively) to prevent and allow, respectively, the flow of the pourable product.

[0096] Preferentially, but not necessarily, the lid assembly 7 comprises a ring-shaped frame 35 which is rotatable around the respective rotation axis G and which is connected to the control ring, in particular also to the outlet cap 6, in such a way that rotation of the control ring, in particular also to the outlet cap 6, results in rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35 and / or that rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35 results in rotation of the control ring, in particular also to the outlet cap 6.

[0097] In use, according to the illustrated preferred non-limiting embodiment, a user touches a portion of the ring-shaped frame 35 and rotates the ring-shaped frame 35 to actuate the rotation of the control ring and outlet cap 6 simultaneously.

[0098] Preferentially, but not necessarily, the lid assembly 7 also includes a lid 36 that is hingedly connected to the ring-shaped frame 35 and is displaceable and / or controllable between at least a closed position in which the lid 36 fully closes the spout 26 and / or the outlet cap 6 and an open position in which the lid 36 fully opens the outlet cap 6 and / or the spout 26.

[0099] Preferentially, but not necessarily, the lid 36 is also displaceable and / or controllable at least in an intermediate position in which the lid 36 partially opens the outlet cap 6 and / or the spout 26 .

[0100] In particular, with the lid 36 in the closed and open positions, the lid assembly 7 is controlled in a closed configuration and an open configuration, respectively. With the lid 36 controlled in an intermediate position, the lid assembly 7 is controlled in a respective intermediate configuration. The intermediate positions of the lid 36 are believed to be of assistance to the consumer, particularly during initial use of the package 2.

[0101] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the spout 3 further includes an actuation device configured to control the lid 36 from a closed position to an intermediate position upon rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35 around the axis G.

[0102] More specifically, the actuation device includes at least one cam element 41, in certain cases two of which are shown, connected to and / or arranged and / or integral with the base frame 4, in particular the collar 12, and more particularly the outer surface 15, and at least one counter cam element 42, in certain cases two of which are shown, connected to and / or arranged and / or integral with the lid 36 and configured to interact with the cam element 41 in use during at least a portion of the rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35 to move the lid 36 from the closed position to an intermediate position.

[0103] In particular, each cam element 41 and each counter cam element 42 are positioned such that starting from at least a first defined angular position of the ring-shaped frame 35, each cam element 41 and each counter cam element 42 engage with each other such that upon further rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35, each counter cam element 42 advances along the cam surface of the cam element 41.

[0104] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the outlet cap 6 comprises at least one through hole 43, in the particular case two are shown, through which at least one respective counter cam element 42 passes.

[0105] In use, the consumer actuates the rotation of the control ring to control the opening assembly 5 from an inactive configuration to an active configuration such that the opening assembly 5 pierces and / or cuts and / or opens and / or ruptures a designated spout area, in particular the separator membrane.

[0106] In particular, upon rotation of the control ring, the cutter 16 translates toward and through the separation membrane.

[0107] According to the illustrated preferred and non-limiting embodiment, the control ring is integral with the outlet cap 6, therefore, rotation of the control ring also means rotation of the outlet cap 6. In particular, the consumer contacts and rotates the ring-shaped frame 35 to induce rotation of the control ring and outlet cap 6.

[0108] During rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35, the actuation device ensures that the lid 36 is controlled from the closed position to an intermediate position.

[0109] With reference to Figures 9 to 12, the numeral 3' refers to an alternative embodiment of a spout according to the present invention, as spout 3' is similar to spout 3, and the following description is limited to the differences therebetween, and where possible, the same reference numbers are used for identical or corresponding parts.

[0110] In particular, the spout 3' differs from the spout 3 in that it does not include an outlet cap 6. Alternatively, the base frame 4 includes and / or defines the outlet cap 6.

[0111] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the spout 3', particularly the base frame 4, and even more particularly the collar 12, includes a pouring outlet 50, particularly in fluid communication with the interior space 13 and configured to allow controlled outflow of the pourable product from the package 2, particularly in the event that the separator membrane loses its integrity.

[0112] According to the non-limiting embodiment shown in Figures 9-12, the collar 12 has a spout 50 and defines the mouthpiece of the spout 3'.

[0113] Notably, spout 3' differs from spout 3 in that it also includes a lid assembly 7'. Because lid assembly 7' is similar to lid assembly 7, the following description is limited to the differences therebetween and, where possible, uses the same reference numbers for like or corresponding parts.

[0114] In particular, the lid assembly 7' is configured to at least selectively close or open the spout 50. The lid assembly 7' is therefore controllable at least between a closed configuration (see Figure 9) in which the lid assembly 7' closes and / or covers the spout 50, in particular to prevent the exit of the pourable product from the package 2, and an open configuration (see Figure 10) in which the lid assembly 7' opens the spout 50, in particular to allow the exit of the pourable product from the package 2.

[0115] In particular, the lid 36 of the lid assembly 7' is controllable between a closed position and an open position, such that the lid assembly 7' is controlled in a closed configuration and an open configuration, respectively, i.e., when the lid 36 is controlled in the closed position and the open position, respectively, the lid 36 closes and / or covers the spout 36 and opens the spout 36.

[0116] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the lid assembly 7' includes the control device.

[0117] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the ring-shaped frame 35 of the lid assembly 7' defines and / or includes a control ring. In particular, the axis F and the axis G are coincident.

[0118] Preferentially, but not necessarily, the linking group 37 rotatably couples and / or connects the ring-shaped frame 35 to the base frame 4, in particular to the collar 12. In particular, the ring-shaped frame 35 carries one of the grooves and the engagement member 40, in particular the engagement member 40 in the example shown.

[0119] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the interaction member 30 is connected to the lid assembly 7', in particular to the lid . Even more specifically, the interaction member 30 protrudes from the lid .

[0120] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the interaction member 30 is connected to an inner surface of the lid 36 facing the base frame 4 and / or to the interior space 13, and the lid 36 is placed and / or moved and / or controlled in the closed position. In particular, with the lid 36 in the closed position, the interaction member 30 protrudes from the inner surface of the lid 36 into the interior space 13.

[0121] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the ring-shaped frame 35 (control ring) and the lid 36 are connected to each other. In particular, the lid 36 is hinged to the ring-shaped frame 35 (control ring).

[0122] Use of Spout 3' is similar to use of Spout 3, so the following discussion will be limited to those differences.

[0123] In particular, to control and / or move the opening assembly 5 from the stopped configuration to the activated configuration, the consumer actuates the rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35 about axis G (and thus about axis F). The rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35 also results in the rotation of the interaction member 30 about axis F (and axis G). In particular, since the lid 36 is connected and / or hinged to the ring-shaped frame 35, the rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35 is transferred to the lid 36 and thereby to the interaction member 30.

[0124] The advantages of the spout 3 and the spout 3' according to the invention become apparent from the above description.

[0125] In particular, spout 3 and spout 3' allow for piercing and / or cutting and / or opening and / or rupturing the separator membrane without separating any part from the package-spout assembly 1 itself.

[0126] Another advantage is seen in allowing the lid 36 to be partially opened during rotation of the ring-like frame 35, facilitating the overall use of the package-spout assembly 1.

[0127] However, obviously modifications can be made to the spout 3 and spout 3' described herein without departing from the scope of protection defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A spout (3, 3') for a sealed package (2) filled with a pourable product, comprising: The spout (3) comprises at least - a base frame (4) adapted to fit around a designated pour opening area of ​​said sealed package (2); an opening assembly (5) movably connected to said base frame (4) and adapted to at least partially cut and / or burst and / or open and / or pierce said designated pouring opening area; a control device configured to interact with said opening assembly (5) and to control said opening assembly (5) between a stopped configuration and an actuated configuration, in which, in use, said opening assembly (5) is configured to at least partially cut and / or burst and / or open and / or pierce said designated pouring opening area with said base frame (4) fitted around said designated pouring opening area; Including, The control device at least one interaction element (29) connected to said aperture assembly (5); at least one control ring (6, 35) rotatably connected to said base frame (4) about a respective axis of rotation (E; F; G); at least one interaction member (30) connected and / or coupled to said control ring (6, 35) and adapted to interact with said interaction element (29); Including, the interaction member (30) is coupled and / or connected to the control ring (6, 35) such that rotation of the control ring (6, 35) also induces rotation of the interaction member (30); said interacting member (30) comprising an axial end portion (31) arranged in a plane of rotation perpendicular to said axis of rotation (E; F; G); wherein, in use, upon rotation of said control ring about said axis of rotation (E; F; G), said interaction member (30) interacts with said interaction element (29) to induce a translation of at least a cutter (16) of said opening assembly (5) to control said opening assembly (5) from said stopped configuration to said activated configuration; In use, upon rotation of the control ring (6,35), the surface of rotation is fixed relative to the base frame (4), the spout (3,3').

2. the control device further comprises at least one engagement element (32) connected to the control ring, and at least a first abutment element (33) and a second abutment element (34) coupled to the base frame (4) and configured to interact with the engagement element (32) and to cooperate to define, respectively, an angled start position and an angled end position of the control ring, 2. The spout of claim 1, wherein the angled start position and the angled end position are defined by the engagement element (32) contacting the first abutment element (33) and the second abutment element (34), respectively.

3. The spout according to claim 2, wherein the base frame (4) comprises a collar (12), and the first abutment element (33) and the second abutment element (34) are arranged on an outer surface (15) of the collar (12).

4. A spout according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first abutment element (33) and the second abutment element (34) are arranged such that, in use, a rotation of the control ring of between 160° and 200°, in particular substantially 180°, controls the control ring from the start position to the end position.

5. The spout according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a group of cams configured to guide movement of the cutter (16) from a rest position to an actuated position, where the opening assembly (5) is in the closed configuration and the actuated configuration, respectively.

6. The cam group includes a cam profile 20 and at least one guide element (21), the cam profile (20) and the guide element (21) are configured to cooperate with each other to guide the cutter (16) during movement between the rest position and the operating position; 6. The spout of claim 5, wherein one of the cam profile (20) and the guide element (21) is connected to the base frame (4) and the other of the cam profile (20) and the guide element (21) is connected to the cutter (16).

7. The base frame (4) includes a collar (12) that defines an internal space (13), The spout of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the opening assembly (5) is disposed within the interior space (13) and is at least partially in contact with an inner surface (14) of the collar (12).

8. The spout of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the cutter (16) is configured to rotate and translate during control of the opening assembly (5) between the stopped configuration and the activated configuration.

9. the spout further comprises an outlet cap (6) rotatably coupled to the base frame (4) and configured to allow the outlet of the pourable product from the package (2) when the spout (3) is disposed in the package (2); A spout according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outlet cap (6) carries at least a control ring and an interaction member (30) of the control device.

10. 10. The spout of claim 9, wherein the control ring and the interacting member (30) are integral with the outlet cap (6), and rotation of the outlet cap (6) results in rotation of the control ring, in use.

11. The spout, - a spout (26, 50) configured to allow a controlled outflow of said pourable product; a lid assembly (7, 7') for at least selectively closing or opening said outlet (26, 50), said lid assembly (7, 7') being controllable at least between a closed configuration in which said lid assembly (7, 7') closes said outlet (26, 50) and an open configuration in which said lid assembly (7) opens said outlet (26, 50); The spout of any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising:

12. the lid assembly (7) comprises a rotatable ring-shaped frame (35) coupled to a control ring in such a way that rotation of the control ring results in rotation of the ring-shaped frame (35) and / or rotation of the ring-shaped frame (35) results in rotation of the control ring, the lid assembly (7) includes a lid (36) hingedly connected to the ring-shaped frame (35) and displaceable between at least a closed position in which the lid (36) completely closes the spout (26, 50), at least an intermediate position in which the lid (36) partially opens the spout (26, 50), and an open position in which the lid (36) completely opens the spout (26, 50); The spout of claim 11, further comprising an actuation device configured to control the lid (36) from the closed position to the intermediate position upon rotation of the ring-shaped frame (35).

13. 13. The spout of claim 12, wherein the actuation device comprises at least one cam element (41) connected to the base frame (4) and at least one counter cam element (42) connected to the lid (36) and configured to interact with the cam element (41) to apply a force to the lid (36) during at least a portion of the rotation of the ring-shaped frame (35) to move the lid (36) from the closed position to the intermediate position.

14. The spout of claim 13, wherein the outlet cap (6) includes at least one through hole (43) through which the at least one counter cam element (42) passes.

15. The spout of claim 11, wherein the interacting member (30) is connected to the lid assembly (7').

16. A package-spout assembly (1) comprising a sealed package (2) filled with a pourable product having a designated spout area, and a spout (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 15 fitted around the designated spout area.

Images