Containers, closures, and methods of manufacture and use

Abstract

Provided herein is a dispensing bottle including a container body and a closure cap having a tamper-evident configuration. The closure cap includes a base and a flip-top lid. The base includes a skirt having internal threads and a plurality of alignment bulges disposed on the inner surface of the skirt. The upper central surface of the base has a teardrop-shaped opening and a lip around the opening. The lid includes a sealing rim protruding inward from the upper surface of the lid. The sealing rim is configured to engage with the lip around the teardrop-shaped opening to prevent fluid from flowing through the closure cap. The alignment bulges are configured to engage with a ring on the neck of the container body to separate the lower base ring from the remainder of the closure cap when the closure cap is removed from the container body, thereby providing the tamper-evident configuration.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 434,842, filed December 22, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Technical Field]

[0002] This application relates generally to containers for fluids. More particularly, this disclosure relates to containers having closure caps. [Background technology]

[0003] Fluid containers or bottles are known for holding and dispensing fluids, such as personal care products, condiments, and other foods and / or beverages. To facilitate dispensing the contents of the container, these bottles often have a closure cap with a flip-top lid and an opening at the base of the cap for accessing or dispensing the contents of the bottle. Additionally, for product integrity and food safety reasons, tamper-evident features may be incorporated into these containers, such as the flip-top lid. These tamper-evident features provide visual or tactile evidence to a consumer that the flip-top lid has previously been opened.

[0004] The tamper-evident design of the bottle may incorporate multiple plastic components or components that separate to provide visual or tactile evidence to the consumer. For example, such a tamper-evident design may incorporate a removable tear strip. Removable tear strips or other separate components may not be easily recyclable and may therefore be disposed of as trash after being removed from the remainder of the bottle or closure cap.

[0005] Additionally, a tamper-evident feature may be provided, for example, by providing a liner at the open end of the bottle beneath the closure cap to seal the contents of the bottle. Removal of all or part of such a liner can provide a visual indication of whether the contents of the bottle have previously been accessed. However, adding such a liner adds a manufacturing step to seal the liner to the bottle, which may be cumbersome for individuals with limited manual dexterity. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 is a top perspective view of a dispensing bottle with a closure cap and a container body, the closure cap shown in a closed position. [Figure 2] 2 is an exploded side view of the dispensing bottle of FIG. 1, showing the closure cap in an open position after molding. [Figure 3] 2 is a top perspective view of the closure cap of FIG. 1, showing the closure cap in an open position after molding. [Figure 4] 2 is a bottom plan view of the closure cap of FIG. 1, showing the closure cap in an open position. [Figure 5] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the closure cap of FIG. 1, showing the closure cap in a closed position. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the closure cap of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is an enlarged bottom perspective view of the closure cap of FIG. 1. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is an enlarged side view of the container body of FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the closure cap of FIG. 1. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the container body and closure cap of FIG. 1. [Figure 11] 1 is a flow diagram of a method for manufacturing a closure cap according to some embodiments. [Figure 12]1 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method for manufacturing a dispensing bottle according to some embodiments. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a cutting element according to some embodiments. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a top view of the cutting element of FIG. 13. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a closure cap in an initial open configuration according to some embodiments. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a front view of the closure cap of FIG. 15 in an initial closed configuration. [Figure 17] FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of a portion of the closure cap of FIG. 15 during an initial opening operation. [Figure 18] FIG. 16 is a front view of the closure cap of FIG. 15 in a re-closed configuration after initial opening. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the size and / or relative location of some elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to facilitate an understanding of each embodiment of the present invention. Also, common elements that are useful or necessary in commercially feasible embodiments but are well-understood are often not shown so as not to obscure the view of the various embodiments of the present invention. While certain acts and / or steps may be described or illustrated in a particular chronological order, those skilled in the art will understand that such specificity with respect to order is not actually required. Terms and phrases used herein shall have the ordinary technical meaning ascribed to them by those skilled in the art, unless a different meaning is specifically defined herein.

[0008] Dispensing bottles are provided with closure caps having tamper-evident features. The tamper-evident features provide an indication to a consumer as to whether the dispensing bottle has been previously opened, and in particular may include an indication as to whether the closure cap of the dispensing bottle has been at least partially unscrewed or otherwise removed from the container body of the dispensing bottle. The closure caps provided herein include a base and a lid movable relative to the base via a hinge. The closure cap may be coupled to the neck of the container body, for example, via a threaded connection. The closure caps described herein may provide various recyclability advantages. For example, the tamper-evident features and / or portions thereof may remain attached to the closure cap after the dispensing bottle or closure cap has been opened. By retaining various, and in some embodiments all, of the tamper-evident features on the closure cap, the closure cap and the tamper-evident features can be recycled as a unit. Additionally, if the tamper-evident arrangement and / or portions thereof remain secured to the closure cap, there may be fewer or no separate pieces of material that need to be recycled or disposed of separately.

[0009] In one aspect, the base of the closure cap has a skirt with internal threads and multiple alignment bulges disposed on the inner surface of the skirt. The base also typically has an upper central surface with an opening having a peripheral lip. In one configuration, the lid of the closure cap includes an upper surface having a sealing rim protruding inwardly from the upper surface, the sealing rim configured to engage with the peripheral lip of the opening when the lid is in the closed position to prevent fluid from flowing through the closure cap. In one exemplary embodiment, the alignment bulge of the base is configured to engage with a ring on the neck of the container body when the closure cap is removed from the container body, separating the lower base ring from the remainder of the closure cap, thereby forming a tamper-evident configuration. In this manner, separation of the lower base ring from at least a portion of the closure cap can provide a visual and / or tactile indication that the closure cap has been at least partially unscrewed from the container body.

[0010] Previous solutions, such as those incorporating a removable tear strip or other release member, may include tamper-evident structures that are separate or independent from the closure cap. However, the closure caps described herein include one or more tamper-evident structures that remain as part of or integral with the closure cap during the closure cap's lifecycle. For example, a lower base ring is part of a tamper-evident structure integrated into the closure cap. A tamper-evident structure that includes a lower base ring provides evidence that the closure cap has previously been unscrewed or removed from the container body. In such an example, if a user unscrews the closure cap from a bottle and removes the liner, the lower base ring may provide evidence or indication that the closure cap has been unscrewed, even after the closure cap has been rethreaded onto the bottle.

[0011] The closure caps provided herein can further include one or more tamper-evident features for the flip-top lid on the lid. Thus, the closure cap can include tamper-evident features for two different access points to the contents of the dispensing bottle in a single plastic member. As a result, the closure cap can be manufactured as a single plastic member that can provide evidence of both (1) unscrewing the closure cap and (2) opening the flip-top lid. Furthermore, the closure cap provides such evidence without using a separate plastic member that is separated or removed when accessing the contents of the dispensing bottle. Because the single plastic member does not require a separate, removable plastic member, the closure cap can be recycled as a single unit, eliminating the generation of small amounts of plastic waste.

[0012] Furthermore, in some configurations, the dispensing bottle may not need to seal a liner to the container body to provide tamper or opening evidence because the tamper-evident features of the closure cap itself provide an indication as to whether the closure cap has previously been (at least partially) removed from the container body. Thus, the manufacturing method for the dispensing bottle need not include an additional step to seal the liner to the container body. Instead, because the tamper-evident features are incorporated into the closure cap itself, simply attaching or bonding the closure cap to the container body can provide tamper evidence.

[0013] In certain aspects, the dispensing bottles provided herein further include a closure cap having a teardrop-shaped opening oriented at an angle for optimal dispensing of the liquid. Suitable characteristics include, for example, droplets or fluids being ejected in a uniform stream or manner. Additionally, the teardrop-shaped opening may facilitate ventilation of the container body as the fluid is poured from the dispensing bottle.

[0014] 1-10, an exemplary embodiment of a dispensing bottle 10 having at least some of the above-described characteristics is shown.

[0015] 1 and 2 illustrate a dispensing bottle 10 that can be used to contain and dispense a fluid product. The dispensing bottle 10 includes a closure cap 24 connected or coupled to a container body 12. The container body 12 is a vessel, e.g., a bottle, for receiving and storing a fluid, such as a fluid food product, a fluid cosmetic product, or other consumer fluid product. Examples of fluid food products include Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, oil, marinades, fish sauce, hot sauce, and dressings. Examples of other fluid cosmetic products include perfumes, aftershaves, cleansers, dyes, dye removers, and other personal hygiene products. In some embodiments, the dispensing bottle 10 may be used with low-viscosity products and / or products containing small particles. The container body 12 has a closed first end 14 and an at least partially open second end 16. The open second end 16 includes a neck 18 configured to receive the closure cap 24.

[0016] As an example, the neck 18 of the container body 12 includes external threads 20 and a ring 22 (see, e.g., FIGS. 2 and 8). A raised band or bead of material extends around the circumference of the neck 18, forming the ring 22. In use, the ring 22 typically engages the inner diameter of the closure cap 24 when the closure cap 24 is attached to the container body 12. In some configurations, the ring 22 may be continuous around the entire circumference of the neck, while in other configurations, the ring may be discontinuous circumferentially. The ring 22 is positioned below the external threads 20 of the neck 18 of the container body 12; that is, the ring 22 is closer to the closed first end 14 than the external threads 20.

[0017] 2 and 8, in one approach, the ring 22 has a downwardly sloping portion 22a that meets a ledge 22b. The downwardly sloping portion 22a may have an angle of about 20 to about 90 degrees, about 30 to about 80 degrees, or in some embodiments, about 40 to about 70 degrees relative to the horizontal (i.e., a line substantially parallel to the closed first end 14 of the container body). In use, the downwardly sloping portion 22a and the ledge 22b may contribute to easier installation of the closure cap 24 onto the neck 18 of the container body 12 than removal. In use, when the closure cap 24 is unscrewed from the container body 12, the ring 22 functions as a retaining ring, partially retaining the lower base ring 42 of the closure cap 24 around the neck 18. In this manner, when the closure cap 24 is fully unscrewed from the container body 12, the lower base ring 42 is actuated or separated from the remainder of the closure cap 24 by the retaining ring.

[0018] The container body 12 may be transparent or translucent to allow a user to see through the container body 12. For example, the user may be able to see the fluid in the container body 12 and / or determine the amount of fluid remaining in the container body 12. In one approach, the container body 12 may be constructed of glass. In another approach, the container body 12 may be formed of a plastic material, such as polypropylene, polyethylene (e.g., HDPE, LDPE, LLDPE, MDPE, HMWPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and / or other food-grade plastics or polymers.

[0019] The closure cap 24 includes a base 26 hingedly connected to a lid 28. The lid 28 of the closure cap 24 is movable relative to the base 26 via a hinge 30 to provide a flip-top cover for the open second end 16 of the container body 12. The flip-top lid 28 is attachable to the neck 18 of the container body 12 and is movable between a closed position ( FIG. 1 ) and an open position ( FIG. 2 ) to selectively allow fluid to flow out of the container body 12. In FIG. 1 , the lid 28 is depicted in the closed position, which may prevent fluid from flowing out of the dispensing bottle 10. In FIG. 2 , the lid 28 is depicted in the open position, which may allow fluid to flow out of the dispensing bottle 10. The closure cap 24 may be formed from a plastic material, such as polypropylene, polyethylene (e.g., HDPE, LDPE, LLDPE, MDPE, HMWPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and / or other food-grade plastics or polymers.

[0020] 3 and 4, further details of the base 26 and lid 28 of the closure cap 24 are shown. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the closure cap 24 is depicted in an open position after the closure cap 24 has been molded and before the tamper-evident features (i.e., the tamper-evident capture mechanism 56 and the upstanding protrusions 58) engage to secure the lid 28 to the base 26. The base 26 of the closure cap 24 includes an upper surface 32 having a central surface 34 that defines a dispensing opening 36 to allow fluid to flow through the closure cap 24 and dispense fluid from the container body 12. In one approach, the opening 36 is formed in a teardrop shape, tapering from a wide rounded portion 36a to a narrow rounded portion 36b. However, it is contemplated that the opening 36 may be formed in other shapes to dispense liquid from the dispensing bottle 10 in a desired manner. The central surface 34 may also be curved. In one approach, for example, the central surface 34 may be convex and project outward from the interior of the closure cap 24 and / or container body 12. An annular lip 38 extends around the periphery of the central surface 34 and thus surrounds the opening 36. The annular lip 38 may be attached to or integrally formed with the base 26 of the closure cap 24. The annular lip 38 may curve outward from the opening 36.

[0021] In some embodiments, the base 26 and central surface 34 of the closure cap 24 are formed as an integral or unitary piece, for example, by molding or 3D printing. In other embodiments, the base 26 and central surface 34 may be formed as separate pieces and then joined together. For example, the central surface 34 may be formed as a disk that is inserted into a central opening in the base 26 of the closure cap 24. Such a disk may be coupled to the base 26, for example, by a snap-fit ​​connection, a friction-fit connection, or other mechanical attachment. In one approach, the disk may be welded, glued, or otherwise bonded to the base 26.

[0022] Turning to FIG. 5, the shape and orientation of the central surface 34 and opening 36 are shown in more detail. Because the central surface 34 of the base 26 is convex, the opening 36 is sloped so that one end is higher than the other. The narrow rounded portion 36b of the opening 36 may be located closer to the center of the central surface 34 than the wide rounded portion 36a. The convex shape of the central surface 34 forms a dome below the central surface 34, which may act as an air passage, allowing the fluid product to return to the dispense bottle 10 after dispensing. In use, the sloped teardrop-shaped opening 36 may contribute to dispensing the liquid in an even flow and at the proper volume. Furthermore, the central surface 34 and the teardrop-shaped opening 36 form a chamber that is filled with the product, and the teardrop-shaped design allows for air ventilation within the chamber. The teardrop shape of the opening 36 may help limit or avoid excess product remaining in the opening 36 after dispensing.

[0023] 3 and 4 , the lid 28 of the closure cap 24 has an upper surface 53. The lid 28 also includes a sealing rim 54 that protrudes inward from the upper surface 53. The sealing rim 54 is configured to engage the annular lip 38 on the upper surface 32 of the base 26 when the lid 28 is in the closed position. As shown in FIG. 5 , when the lid 28 is in the closed position, the sealing rim 54 may engage the annular lip 38 of the base 26, sealing the space around the central surface 34 and covering the opening 36, thereby preventing fluid from flowing through the closure cap 24. In one example structure, the annular lip 38 is flared or has an outwardly protruding upper end. In an approach such as that shown in FIG. 5 , only a portion of the annular lip 38 (e.g., the portion adjacent the opening 36) has a flared upper end. Furthermore, in some approaches, the annular lip 38 has a notch or ledge that engages with a corresponding structure on the sealing rim 54. When the lid 28 is in the open position, at least a portion of the sealing rim 54 may disengage from the annular lip 38 to expose the opening 36 to allow fluid to flow from the dispensing bottle 10 through the closure cap 24.

[0024] The base 26 of the closure cap 24 includes a skirt 40 that depends or extends downwardly from the top surface 32. In one configuration, the skirt 40 extends downwardly from the periphery of the top surface 32 of the closure cap 24. The outer surface of the skirt 40, or portions thereof, may be provided with ribs or other textured surfaces or non-slip materials to improve grip when threading or unthreading the closure cap 24 onto the container body 12. The inner surface of the skirt 40 is configured to engage with the outer surface of the neck 18 of the container body 12. For example, the inner surface of the skirt 40 includes skirt threads 41 that correspond to the external threads 20 of the container body 12. The closure cap 24 may be secured to the container body 12 by threading the skirt threads 41 of the base 26 onto the external threads 20 of the neck 18 of the container body 12. However, the inner surface of the closure cap 24 may also be configured to engage with the neck 18 by other suitable means, such as a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0025] The skirt 40 of the base 26 further includes a lower base ring 42. The lower base ring 42 is positioned opposite the top surface 32 of the base 25. By way of example, the skirt 40 includes a slit 44 or discontinuous cutouts around a portion of its periphery, defining the lower base ring 42. One or more narrow bridges of material 45 extend through the slits 44, or between separate portions of the slits 44, to secure the lower base ring 42 to the remainder of the skirt 40. The interrupted portions of the slits 44 form anchor points 52, which secure the remainder of the skirt 40 to the lower base ring 42 when the closure cap 24 is unscrewed from the container body 12. The anchor points 52 are wider bridges of material extending through the slits 44, or between separate portions of the slits 44; in one approach, the anchor points 52 are wider than the bridges 45. In one approach, the hinge 30 of the closure cap 24 is aligned with the anchor point 52 (see FIG. 4), while in other configurations, the anchor point 52 and the hinge are not necessarily aligned. As proposed, the slits 44 are comprised of a plurality of discontinuous through-cuts through the skirt 40 of the base 26. The through-cuts are discontinuous, thus defining the location of the bridge 45 and the anchor point 52. The slits 44 are shown in detail in FIG. 9. The anchor point 52 is the portion of the skirt 40 where no through-cuts exist, allowing the lower base ring 42 to be secured to the remainder of the closure cap 24 when the closure cap 24 is at least partially unscrewed from the neck 18 of the container body 12.

[0026] In some embodiments, the thickness of the skirt 40 may vary along one or more dimensions. For example, the thickness of the skirt 40 may vary along the perimeter and / or height of the skirt 40. In one approach, the skirt may be thicker at or near (e.g., below) the anchor points 52. Providing an area of ​​increased thickness may, for example, form a partial slit 44 in the skirt 40. For example, during manufacturing, a knife or other slitting device may penetrate only partially through the skirt 40, thereby forming a partial slit 44 that extends through a portion of the thickness of the skirt 40.

[0027] The slits 44 in the skirt 40 and the ring 22 on the neck 18 combine to form a tamper-evident configuration that indicates when the closure cap 24 has been at least partially unthreaded from the neck 18. In use, this tamper-evident configuration provides a visual indication of whether the dispensing bottle 10 has previously been opened or its contents otherwise accessed. In particular, the tamper-evident configuration can indicate when the closure cap 24 has been at least partially unthreaded from the neck 18 of the container body 12. For example, the closure cap 24 can be manually forced with fingers or other tools to unscrew from the container body 12 and access the contents of the container body 12. As the closure cap 24 is unthreaded, at least a portion of the material bridge 45 securing the lower base ring 42 to the skirt 40 may break. Unthreading the closure cap 24 may be initially smooth and require increasing force as the closure cap 24 is unscrewed to break the bridge 45. When the bridge 45 breaks, the remainder of the closure cap 24 (e.g., the portion of the closure cap 24 above the lower base ring 42) can be removed from the neck 18 of the container body 12. However, when the closure cap 24 is unscrewed, the anchor points 52 may remain intact or unbroken. In this manner, the anchor points 52 can secure the remainder of the closure cap 24 to the lower base ring 42. The anchor points 52 hold the lower base ring 42 and the remainder of the closure cap 24 together as a single piece of material, allowing them to be recycled as a unit and eliminating the need to separately discard the lower base ring 42. Furthermore, when the closure cap 24 is unscrewed, the ring 22 of the neck 18 of the container body 12 may engage the interior of the closure cap 24 (see FIG. 10 ), securing the lower base ring 42 in place around the neck 18.

[0028] In some embodiments, the closure cap 24 may include one or more tamper-evident features for the flip-top lid 28. For example, the closure cap 24 may include one or more features further described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 298,522, filed January 11, 2022, entitled "Container, Closure, and Method of Manufacture," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0029] In one approach, the closure cap 24 includes one or more tamper-evident capture mechanisms 56 on the sides of the lid 28 and one or more upstanding protrusions 58 on the base 26 of the lid 28. The tamper-evident capture mechanisms 56 are configured to engage with the upstanding protrusions 58 on the base 26 of the closure cap 24. The tamper-evident capture mechanisms 56 are configured to mate with the upstanding protrusions 58. The tamper-evident capture mechanisms 56 are located on the side of the lid 28 opposite the hinge 30. However, the tamper-evident capture mechanisms 56 may be located anywhere on the sides of the lid 28. The tamper-evident capture mechanisms 56 are located adjacent to the tabs 57 on the lid 28, and in some embodiments, on both sides of the tabs 57 on the lid 28. Tab 57 sits above a recess 59 in the side of lid 28 and can be grasped to remove lid 28 from base 26 and expose opening 36 .

[0030] The upstanding projection 58 is also disposed in the recess 59. In one approach, the tamper-evident capture mechanism 56 is a projection that projects radially outward from the side of the lid 28, with the upstanding projection 58 including one or more openings aligned to receive the projection. The upstanding projection 58 includes a line of weakness or area of ​​weakness 55. The line of weakness or area of ​​weakness 55 may be located at the base of the upstanding projection 58 and is typically breakable, frangible, or severable. The line of weakness or area of ​​weakness 55 may be located in any suitable location on the upstanding projection 58. The line of weakness or area of ​​weakness 55 can facilitate separation of the upstanding projection 58 from the remainder of the base 26. Furthermore, the tamper-evident capture mechanism 56 may be configured to retain the upstanding projection 58, or a portion thereof, after separation from the base 26 of the closure cap 24. Thus, the tamper-evident capture mechanism 56 can prevent the upstanding projection 58 from completely separating or falling off the closure cap 24 and being discarded as a separate plastic member.

[0031] In use, the lid 28 is manually lifted from the base 26, for example, using a finger, an instrument, or other tool to remove the lid 28 from the base 26 and access the opening 36 to dispense fluid from the container body 12. When the tab 57 is pushed upward, the tamper-evident capture mechanism 56 applies a force to the upstanding projection 58. This force separates the upstanding projection 58 from the remainder of the base 26 along the line or area of ​​weakness 55. The tamper-evident capture mechanism 56 of the lid 28 may retain the upstanding projection 58 after it is separated from the base 26. In this manner, the capture mechanism 56 can prevent the upstanding projection 58 from being torn or separated from the base 26 and discarded as a separate plastic member. The tamper-evident capture mechanism 56 and the upstanding projection 58 may provide a visual and / or tactile indication of whether the flip-top lid 28 has been previously opened.

[0032] 6 and 7, the inner surface of the skirt 40 is provided with an internal thread 46, one or more alignment bulges 48, and one or more engagement protrusions 50. The internal thread 46 of the skirt 40 is disposed above the slit 44, and the alignment bulge 48 and engagement protrusions 50 are disposed below the slit 44. Thus, the alignment bulge 48 and engagement protrusions 50 are disposed on the lower base ring 42 of the skirt 40, and the internal thread 46 is disposed above the lower base ring 42.

[0033] The internal threads 46 of the skirt 40 are configured to threadably engage with the external threads 20 of the neck 18 of the container body 12. When the closure cap 24 is coupled to the container body 12, the internal threads 46 of the skirt 40 engage with the external threads 20 of the neck 18 of the container body 12. However, the manner in which the closure cap 24 engages with the container body 12 may vary. For example, in some embodiments, the engagement may be a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0034] In the exemplary embodiment, the alignment bulges 48 are positioned below the internal threads 46 of the skirt 40. The alignment bulges 48 are spaced apart from one another around the periphery of the skirt 40. In some embodiments, the alignment bulges 48 may be spaced apart at approximately equal intervals around the periphery of the skirt 40. As shown, the alignment bulges 48 protrude from the inner surface of the skirt 40 toward the interior of the closure cap 24. The alignment bulges 48 include a flat first surface 48a and a rounded second surface 48b. The flat first surface 48a is configured to engage with the ledge 22b of the ring 22 of the container body 12 when the closure cap 24 is fully threaded onto or coupled to the neck 18 of the container body 12. In this manner, the alignment bulges 48 help secure the lower base ring 42 of the skirt 40 around the ring 22 of the neck 18. For example, when force is applied to remove the closure cap 24 from the container body 12 , the alignment bulge 48 may catch on the ring 22 and hold the lower base ring 42 in place around the ring 22 .

[0035] Engagement protrusions 50 are also disposed on the inner surface of the lower base ring 42 of the skirt 40. The engagement protrusions 50 are spaced apart from one another around the periphery of the skirt 40. In some embodiments, the engagement protrusions 50 may be approximately equally spaced around the periphery of the skirt 40. The engagement protrusions 50 are disposed above the alignment bulges 48 and below the internal threads 46. In some embodiments, one or more engagement protrusions 50 are vertically aligned with a corresponding alignment bulge 48, with the engagement protrusions disposed above the engagement protrusions 50. The alignment bulges 48 typically have a longer length than the engagement protrusions 50. The engagement protrusions 50 protrude from the inner surface of the skirt 40 toward the interior of the closure cap 24. The engagement protrusions 50 may be rectangular and have a flat surface 50a configured to engage with the downwardly inclined portion 22a of the ring 22. At least a portion of the alignment bulge 48 is adjacent to the engagement protrusion 50, and the alignment bulge 48 is disposed below the corresponding engagement protrusion 50. Thus, when the closure cap 24 is fully threaded or otherwise coupled to the neck 18 of the container body 12, the engagement projections 50 help secure the closure cap 24 around the ring 22 of the neck 18.

[0036] In some embodiments, the skirt 40 may include about two to about ten alignment bulges 48, and in some embodiments, about four to about six. The skirt 40 may include about two to about twelve, or about five to about seven, engagement protrusions 50. In some embodiments, the skirt 40 may include five or six engagement protrusions 50. In some embodiments, the number of alignment bulges 48 may be the same as the number of engagement protrusions 50. In other non-limiting embodiments, the number of alignment bulges 48 may be fewer than the number of engagement protrusions 50, and an area on the lower base ring 42 where no alignment bulge 48 is present may be provided. For example, the number of alignment bulges 48 may be one less than the number of engagement protrusions 50. The area where no alignment bulge 48 is present is an area where the closure cap 24 initially lifts, providing leverage for removing the remainder of the cap from the lower base ring 42. The area where no alignment bulge 48 is present may be located below the hinge 30. 6 shows an area without alignment bulges 48 (i.e., an area below anchor points 52), in other embodiments, such an area may not be present on skirt 40. For example, in one approach, alignment bulges 48 and corresponding engagement protrusions 50 may be located around the entire periphery of the skirt. Thus, in one approach, the area below anchor points 52 may include both alignment bulges 48 and engagement protrusions 50.

[0037] 10 , when the closure cap 24 is threaded onto the neck 18 and fully seated on the container body 12, the alignment bulge 48 is located below the ring 22 and the engagement protrusions 50 are located above the ring 22, securing the lower base ring 42 of the closure cap 24 in place. The alignment bulge 48 is typically longer than the engagement protrusions 50 and also protrudes more from the inner surface of the skirt 40 into the interior of the closure cap 24 than the engagement protrusions 50. In this way, the alignment bulge 48 and the engagement protrusions 50 help to hold the lower base ring 42 around the ring 22 when the closure cap 24 is unscrewed from the container body 12.

[0038] In use, the ring 22 on the neck 18 of the container body 12 and the slit 44 and lower base ring 42 of the closure cap 24 form a tamper-evident configuration. Such a tamper-evident configuration indicates whether the closure cap 24 has been at least partially unscrewed or otherwise removed from the container body 12. The ring 22 functions as a retaining ring, allowing the ring 22 to retain the lower base ring 42 of the base 26 on the neck 18 when the closure cap 24 is at least partially unscrewed from the container body 12. Furthermore, when the closure cap 24 is unscrewed, the remainder of the closure cap 24 (e.g., the portion of the closure cap 24 above the lower base ring 42) remains connected to the lower base ring 42 via the anchor points 52. Thus, when the closure cap 24 is unscrewed from the container body 12, the lower base ring 42 is only partially separated from the remainder of the closure cap 24.

[0039] As described above, the alignment bulge 48 and engagement projection 50 contribute to retaining the lower base ring 42 around the ring 22 of the neck 18 when the closure cap 24 is unscrewed or otherwise removed from the container body 12. Accordingly, unscrewing the closure cap 24 from the neck 18 of the container body 12 may cause at least a portion of the material bridge 45 to break. When the bridge 45 breaks, the portion of the skirt 40 above the slit 44 separates from the lower base ring 42, leaving only the anchor points 52 intact. This breaking of the bridge 42 and / or separation of the lower base ring 42 from the remainder of the closure cap 24 provides a visual and / or tactile indication to a user that the closure cap 24 has been unscrewed or otherwise removed to access the contents of the container body 12.

[0040] In use, when the closure cap 24 is unscrewed from the neck 18 of the container body 12, the bridge 45 may break, separating the lower base ring 42 from the remainder of the skirt 40. Such separation provides a visual, tamper-evident indication that the closure cap 24 has been at least partially removed from the container body 12. After the closure cap 24 is unscrewed, the lower base ring 42 may remain attached to the container body 12. A user may eventually remove the lower base ring 42 from the container body 12, for example, to discard the closure cap 24 after the useful life of the dispensing bottle 10.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 11 , an example of a method 60 for manufacturing a closure cap described herein is shown. The method 60 includes forming 62 a closure cap (typically in an open configuration). The closure cap may be formed by a molding process using one or more molds. The closure cap may be formed as a unitary material or a single-piece structure, and in some embodiments, the closure cap is formed in a single mold. The closure cap includes a base and a lid movable relative to the base via a hinge. The base includes a skirt having internal threads and a plurality of alignment bulges. The base also has a central surface with an opening having a peripheral lip. The lid includes a top surface having a sealing rim protruding inwardly from the top surface and configured to engage with the peripheral lip of the opening after assembly to prevent fluid from flowing through the closure cap. In the closure cap, the alignment bulge of the base is configured to engage with the bottle retaining ring to separate the lower base ring from the remainder of the closure cap when the flip-top cap is removed from the bottle, thereby forming a first tamper-evident configuration. In some embodiments, the closure cap may be the closure cap 24 described in connection with FIGS. 1-10 or may include one or more of the configurations of the closure cap 24.

[0042] The method 60 further includes a step 64 of scoring a plurality of through cuts around the skirt of the closure cap. The scoring step 64 can be performed in any suitable manner, for example, using one or more knives, blades, lasers, or other instruments. In one approach, the scoring step 64 can be performed using a cutting element 90, shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 . Scoring 64 the skirt of the closure cap can form slits around the skirt, defining a lower base ring on the skirt. Such scoring creates one or more narrow bridges of material and / or anchor points that extend through the slits and connect or attach the lower base ring to the remainder of the skirt.

[0043] Also, in an alternative embodiment, the central surface containing the opening may be molded separately from the closure cap (e.g., as a central disk). The central disk may then be held to the base of the closure cap by a snap-fit ​​or other friction-fit connection. Thus, method 60 may also include snapping the central disk into the closure cap. In some aspects, the central disk may be bonded or attached to the closure cap by other suitable means, such as adhesive, welding, solvent bonding, or mechanical fastening.

[0044] In one approach, the base of the closure cap formed in step 62 further includes one or more upstanding protrusions, and the lid further includes one or more tamper-evident capture features on the sides. If these upstanding protrusions and tamper-evident capture features are included in the closure cap, method 60 further includes step 68 of securing the lid to the closure cap via the tamper-evident capture features. Additionally, the closure cap may be molded with the lid in an open configuration. Thus, method 60 may also include the step of closing the lid and securing the upstanding protrusions on the base of the closure cap against the tamper-evident capture features on the lid.

[0045] 12 illustrates a method 70 for manufacturing a dispensing bottle as described herein. Method 70 includes step 72 of forming a vessel having external neck threads and a retaining ring formed on the neck of the vessel and positioned adjacent the open end of the vessel.

[0046] Method 70 also includes filling the vessel with a fluid, such as a fluid food product, a fluid cosmetic product, or other fluid consumable product, step 74. After filling the vessel, step 74, it may not be necessary to seal the container with a liner to provide tamper-evident protection to the vessel.

[0047] The method 70 further includes a step 76 of molding a closure cap. The closure cap includes a base and a flip-top lid. The base has an opening for dispensing fluid. The base further includes a skirt having internal threads, a plurality of alignment bulges, and a plurality of engagement protrusions. The flip-top lid is movable relative to the base via a hinge and may include a tamper-evident capture mechanism located on the flip-top lid opposite the hinge. The flip-top lid further includes a top surface having a sealing rim protruding inwardly from the top surface. The sealing rim is configured to engage with a lip around the opening to prevent fluid from flowing through the closure cap. The alignment bulge and engagement protrusions of the base are configured to engage with a retaining ring of the container to partially separate the lower base ring from the remainder of the closure cap when the closure cap is at least partially unscrewed from the container. In this manner, the alignment bulge and the retaining ring form a tamper-evident feature of the dispensing bottle. The tamper-evident configuration may indicate that the closure cap has previously been at least partially unscrewed or otherwise removed from the vessel. In some embodiments, the closure cap may be closure cap 24 described in connection with FIGS. 1-10 or may include one or more of the configurations of closure cap 24.

[0048] The method further includes scoring the closure cap to form one or more through-cuts in the skirt of the closure cap. The through-cuts are discontinuous and disposed around at least a portion of the circumference of the skirt of the closure cap. The through-cuts define a lower base ring disposed at the base of the skirt. The lower base ring may function as a tamper-evident feature of the closure cap.

[0049] In some embodiments, method 70 also includes step 80 of closing a flip-top lid and securing the closure cap lid via one or more tamper-evident capture mechanisms. For example, the closure cap flip-top lid may be molded in an open configuration, and the flip-top lid must be closed to seal the contents of the filled container. The closure cap is then threaded onto the neck of the container to create a filled and sealed dispensing bottle.

[0050] 13 and 14 show an example of a cutting element 90 that may be used to form multiple through cuts around the skirt of a closure cap. For example, the cutting element 90 may be used to form the slits 44 on the skirt 40 of the closure cap 24 shown in FIGS. 1-10.

[0051] The cutting element 90 includes a radially extending blade 92 having a cutting edge 94. The blade 92 can have a variety of shapes or configurations. For example, the blade 92 may be semi-circular or rectangular. The cutting edge 94 of the blade 92 is provided with a series of notches or cutouts 96. The notches or cutouts 96 form gaps in the cutting edge 94, defining a series of cutting segments 98. The notches or cutouts 96 are strategically positioned along the cutting edge 94 and define the locations of through-cuts and material bridges that extend through the slits in the skirt. When the cutting element 90 is used, the cutting segments 98 form multiple through-cuts in the skirt of the closure cap, creating the slits 44. Similarly, the notches or cutouts 96 form material bridges that extend through the slits 44. In some approaches, the closure caps may be fed to the cutting element 90 (e.g., via a cutting machine) in a random order or orientation.

[0052] The cutting element 90 may include one or more mounts 100 for attaching or otherwise securing the cutting element 90 to a housing or fixture of a powered cutting device or other manufacturing device. Any suitable mount 100 may be used to couple the cutting element 90 to the powered cutting device or manufacturing device. In use, the powered cutting device 90 may bring the cutting element 90 into contact with the closure cap and / or rotate the cutting device 90 to move the cutting blade 94 around the closure cap.

[0053] The cutting element 90 may be made of metal, such as, for example, various steels or metal alloys. It is contemplated that the blade 92 and / or cutting edge 94 may be made of the same or different materials.

[0054] A method for dispensing fluid from a filled dispensing bottle may include providing a closure cap having one or more of the configurations described in connection with FIGS. 1-10. For example, such a dispensing bottle may include a closure cap having a base and a flip-top lid hingedly connected to the base. The closure cap base may include internal threads, a plurality of alignment bulges, and a skirt having a plurality of discontinuous through-cuts disposed on a portion of the skirt's circumference. The closure cap base further includes one or more upstanding protrusions, a central surface having a teardrop-shaped opening therethrough, and a lip extending around the central surface. The flip-top lid is movable relative to the base via the hinge from a first open position to a second closed position. The flip-top lid includes an upper surface, and the upper surface may have a sealing rim protruding inwardly from the upper surface. The sealing rim is configured to engage the lip of the base to prevent fluid from flowing through the teardrop-shaped opening. Additionally, the flip-top lid may include a capture mechanism disposed opposite the hinge. There may be two access points for accessing a filled dispensing bottle closed with a closure cap as described herein, and either or both access points may include a tamper-evident feature.

[0055] A method for dispensing fluid from a filled dispense bottle may include unscrewing the closure cap from the filled dispense bottle to at least partially disengage a lower base ring of the closure cap from a base of the closure cap, exposing the open end of the dispense bottle, and pouring fluid from the filled dispense bottle. The alignment bulge of the base is configured to engage a bottle retaining ring on the container body of the dispense bottle to separate the lower base ring from the remainder of the closure cap when the flip-top cap is at least partially removed from the container body. Accessing the contents of the filled bottle in this manner may provide a first tamper-evident feature due to the lower base ring and the combination of the slit in the closure cap and the ring on the neck of the container body.

[0056] The method for dispensing fluid from a filled dispensing bottle may also include rotating the flip-top lid of the closure cap to a first open position. Rotating the flip-top lid can separate one or more upstanding projections from the base of the closure cap and retain the upstanding projections on the flip-top lid via a capture mechanism. The upstanding projections on the base and the capture mechanism on the flip-top lid form a second tamper-evident configuration. Opening the flip-top lid in this manner allows fluid to be poured through the teardrop-shaped opening.

[0057] 15 illustrates another closure cap 124 configured for use with a container that holds and dispenses a consumable fluid (e.g., a liquid condiment, beverage, cooking oil, etc.). As shown, the closure cap 124 includes a flip-top lid 128 and a base 126 that screws onto the bottle neck, as described above. The closure cap 124 also includes an opening 136 in the base 126, which may be oval-shaped. Additionally, the opening 136 may have an oblique orientation, as described above.

[0058] In an exemplary configuration, opening 136 has a teardrop spout 137 configuration. In some approaches, teardrop-shaped spout 137 may have a first wide end and a second narrow end, with the second narrow end terminating in a rounded narrow point. In an exemplary configuration, the narrow point is located at the apex of a sloped configuration (see, e.g., FIG. 5).

[0059] Additionally, the base 126 may include an annular lip 138 around the spout opening 136, and the flip-top lid 136 may include a sealing rim 154 that mates with and corresponds to the lip 138 when the flip-top lid 136 is in the closed position. In this manner, the annular lip 138 and the sealing rim 154 may cooperate to prevent fluid from leaking through the lid.

[0060] Figure 15 shows the closure cap 124 in its molded initial open configuration, and Figure 16 shows the closure cap 124 in its initial closed configuration (i.e., the lid's normal position during shipping to a store or on display). The closure cap 124 typically has at least two tamper-evident features. A first tamper-evident element indicates that the closure cap has previously been unscrewed from the bottle, and a second tamper-evident element indicates that the flip-top lid has previously been flipped open from its initial closed position. The first tamper-evident element 161 may include a ring on the neck of the container and a band that engages it, as described above.

[0061] More specifically, the first tamper-evident element 161 or configuration identifies whether the closure cap 124 has been unscrewed from the bottle. Structurally, this may include a lower base ring 142 of the cap skirt connected to the remainder of the cap skirt by a narrow bridge 145 (formed between slits 144, see, e.g., FIG. 18 ). In use, the lower base ring 142 is separated or pulled away from the remainder of the skirt by a bottle neck retaining element or ring 22 (described above) located below the threads. In this manner, once separated, the lower base ring 142 visually indicates whether the closure cap 124 has previously been unscrewed from the bottle.

[0062] In some embodiments, the second tamper-evident element 163 or configuration that indicates whether the flip-top lid has been previously opened may include multiple aspects. In an exemplary embodiment, the closure cap incorporates at least one of a movable member (e.g., an upstanding protrusion 158) and / or an extensible and frangible mechanism 121 (e.g., an S-shaped bridge of material 119). Figure 15 illustrates both of these tamper-evident aspects that indicate whether the lid has been flipped from its initial closed position.

[0063] In the initial molded configuration of FIG. 15 , the upstanding projection 158 is initially integrally molded or connected to the base 126. Furthermore, the upstanding projection 158 typically has a shape that engages with the lid 128 when the closure cap is initially closed ( FIG. 16 shows the closure cap in its initial closed configuration). In one approach, the upstanding projection 158 has one or more openings 123 that engage and receive a tab, protrusion, or catch mechanism 156 attached to or integrally molded into the lid 128. FIG. 16 shows the upstanding projection 158 with two openings 123 and an associated catch mechanism 156 extending through the two openings 123, coupling the movable upstanding projection 158 to the flip-top lid 128.

[0064] After initial closure, the force connecting the upstanding projection 158 and the capture mechanism 156 is greater than the strength of the connection between the upstanding projection 158 and the base 126. The weakening of the connection between the upstanding projection 158 and the base 126 may be formed by a molding process, or may be partially formed by a weakening process, such as by providing a line or area of ​​weakness between the upstanding projection 158 and its connection to the base 126 by a scoring mechanism. Due to the strength of the connection between the upstanding projection 158 and the capture mechanism 156, after initial opening, the upstanding projection 158 is separated from the base and captured within or coupled to the lid 128 via the capture mechanism 156.

[0065] Figure 15 also shows the stretchable frangible mechanism 121 in an initial configuration as an S-shaped bridge of material 119. The stretchable frangible mechanism 121 is configured to indicate whether the closure cap 124 has previously been opened. Figure 16 shows two such stretchable frangible S-shaped bridges 119. Initially (i.e., as molded), the stretchable frangible S-shaped bridges 119 are connected at one end to the base 124 and at the other end to a movable portion. In one configuration, the movable portion includes an upstanding protrusion 158, although other movable members may be used.

[0066] During the initial opening procedure (see FIG. 17), a pair of frangible S-shaped bridges 119 connecting the movable portion and base 126 begin to stretch and eventually break upon opening. More specifically, the frangible S-shaped bridges 119 separate into two portions, an upper portion 119a and a lower portion 119b. Thereafter, the upper portion 119a of the S-shaped bridges remains secured to the movable portion or upstanding protrusion 158, and the lower portion 119b remains secured to the base 126. After the closure cap 124 is reclosed, a user or consumer can easily visually determine whether the closure cap 124 has been previously opened by checking for the broken S-shaped bridges.

[0067] As shown in Figure 18, after the initial opening, the S-bridges stretch and thin, indicating the previous opening along with the multiple members. The user may also feel a tactile pop or break as the S-bridges separate, and the force required to open the lid becomes more consistent along the opening path after the initial opening. While the S-bridges of the material described herein are connected to the base 126 and the movable upstanding protrusions 158, other movable members may be used.

[0068] Throughout this specification, references to "one example," "one example," "another example," "some examples," "other examples," etc. mean that particular elements (e.g., configurations, structures, characteristics) described in connection with that example are included in at least one example described herein, and may or may not be included in other examples. It is also understood that elements described in any example can be combined in any suitable manner in various examples, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0069] In describing and claiming the examples disclosed herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0070] Although several examples have been described in detail, it should be understood that the disclosed examples may be modified, and therefore the foregoing description should not be considered limiting.

Claims

1. a container body having a neck including an external thread and a ring and configured to hold a liquid seasoning, beverage, or cooking oil; a closure cap having a base and a flip-top lid movable relative to one another via a hinge; Equipped with the flip-top lid has an internal protrusion and is movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position the internal protrusion engages a lip around an opening in the base and prevents fluid from flowing out of the closure cap, and in the open position the internal protrusion allows fluid to flow out of the closure cap; the base has internal threads configured to engage the external threads of the neck, a skirt formed with one or more alignment bulges, one or more engagement protrusions, and a slit partially disposed around the skirt; the slit in the skirt and the ring in the neck form a tamper-evident configuration by forming a lower base ring that is only partially separated from the remainder of the closure cap except for an anchor point, and the lower base ring separates from the remainder of the base when the flip-top lid is at least partially detached from the container body. Dispensing bottle.

2. 10. The dispensing bottle of claim 1, wherein said slits comprise a plurality of discontinuous through-cuts through said skirt of said base.

3. The dispensing bottle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the slit is disposed in the skirt of the base between the internal thread of the base and the one or more engagement protrusions.

4. A dispensing bottle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one material bridge extends through said slit.

5. 5. The dispensing bottle of claim 1, wherein the one or more engagement protrusions have a first side with a sloped shape and a second side with a relatively flat surface configured to engage with the ring on the neck of the container body.

6. The dispensing bottle of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the ring of the neck includes a downward slope and a ledge.

7. A dispensing bottle as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein when the closure cap is fully inserted into the neck portion of the container body, a downwardly inclined portion of the ring engages with the one or more engagement protrusions of the skirt and a shelf portion of the ring engages with the one or more alignment bulges of the skirt.

8. The dispensing bottle according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the one or more engagement protrusions are disposed adjacent to the slit below the hinge.

9. The dispensing bottle of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the base has a teardrop-shaped opening.

10. 10. The dispensing bottle of claim 9, wherein the teardrop-shaped opening is sloped, with one end of the opening being higher than another end.

11. 10. The dispensing bottle of claim 9, wherein the teardrop-shaped opening is disposed on a surface of the base, the central surface being convex.

12. 12. The dispensing bottle of claim 1, wherein the closure cap further comprises a second tamper-evident feature that indicates when the flip-top lid is moved from the closed position to the open position for the first time.

13. 13. The dispensing bottle of claim 1, wherein the base further comprises one or more upstanding protrusions, and the flip-top lid further comprises one or more capture mechanisms located on an opposite side of the flip-top lid from the hinge.

14. 11. The dispensing bottle of claim 10, wherein one or more upstanding protrusions on the base have a line or area of ​​weakness adjacent a base portion of the protrusion, facilitating separation of the one or more upstanding protrusions from the remainder of the base, and a capture mechanism on the flip-top lid is configured to retain the one or more upstanding protrusions after separation from the base.

15. A closure cap including a base and a flip-top lid movable relative to the base via a hinge, The base is a skirt having internal threads, a plurality of alignment bulges, and a plurality of discontinuous through cuts; a central surface having a teardrop-shaped opening configured to dispense a fluid condiment, beverage, or cooking oil, and a lip around the opening; one or more upstanding protrusions; Including, the through cut is disposed partially around the skirt; The flip-top lid is a top surface having a sealing rim configured to engage the lip around the teardrop-shaped opening to prevent fluid from flowing through the closure cap; a tamper-evident capture mechanism located on the flip-top lid opposite the hinge; Including, the sealing rim projects inwardly from the upper surface; the plurality of alignment bulges are configured to engage a bottle retaining ring and separate a lower base ring from a remainder of the closure cap when the closure cap is at least partially removed from the bottle, thereby providing a first tamper-evident configuration. Closure cap.

16. 2. The closure cap of claim 1, wherein the one or more upright protrusions of the base have a line or area of ​​weakness adjacent to the base of the protrusion to facilitate separation from the remainder of the base, and wherein a tamper-evident capture mechanism of the flip-top lid is configured to retain the one or more upright protrusions after they are separated from the base.

17. forming a closure cap in one or more molds; The closure cap includes a base and a flip-top lid movable relative to the base via a hinge; The base is a skirt having internal threads and a plurality of alignment bulges; a central surface having a teardrop-shaped opening configured to dispense a fluid condiment, beverage, or cooking oil and a lip around the teardrop-shaped opening; one or more upstanding protrusions; Including, The flip-top lid is a top surface having a sealing rim configured to engage the lip after assembly to prevent fluid from passing through the closure cap; a tamper-evident capture mechanism located on the flip-top lid opposite the hinge; Including, the sealing rim projects inwardly from the upper surface; forming the plurality of alignment bulges on the base configured to engage a bottle retaining ring to separate a lower base ring from a remainder of the closure cap when the closure cap is removed from the bottle, thereby providing a first tamper-evident configuration; applying a plurality of discontinuous through cuts disposed partially around the skirt; securing the one or more upstanding protrusions of the base to the tamper-evident capture mechanism of the flip-top lid; Including, A method for manufacturing a closure cap.

18. a molding step for molding a closure cap; The closure cap includes a base and a flip-top lid movable relative to the base via a hinge from a first open position to a second closed position; The base is a skirt having internal threads and a plurality of alignment bulges; a central surface having a teardrop-shaped opening configured to dispense a fluid condiment, beverage, or cooking oil and a lip around the teardrop-shaped opening; one or more upstanding protrusions; Including, The flip-top lid is a top surface having a sealing rim configured to engage the lip after assembly to prevent fluid from passing through the closure cap; a tamper-evident capture mechanism located on the flip-top lid opposite the hinge; Including, the sealing rim projects inwardly from the upper surface; a molding step, wherein the plurality of alignment bulges on the base are configured to engage a bottle retaining ring to separate a lower base ring from a remainder of the closure cap when the closure cap is removed from the bottle, thereby forming a first tamper-evident configuration; applying a plurality of discontinuous through cuts disposed partially around the skirt; a closing step after the molding step of closing the flip-top lid onto the base in a molded open configuration to secure the one or more upstanding protrusions of the base against the tamper-evident capture mechanism of the flip-top lid; Including, A method for manufacturing a closure cap.

19. forming a vessel having external neck threads and a retaining ring; a filling step of filling the vessel with a fluid; a molding step for molding a closure cap; The closure cap has a base and a flip-top lid movable relative to the base via a hinge; The base is a skirt having internal threads, a plurality of alignment bulges, and a plurality of discontinuous through cuts; a central surface having a teardrop-shaped opening configured to dispense a fluid condiment, beverage, or cooking oil, and a lip around the opening; one or more upstanding protrusions; Including, the through cut is disposed partially around the skirt; The flip-top lid is a top surface having a sealing rim configured to engage around the teardrop-shaped opening to prevent fluid from exiting through the closure cap; a tamper-evident capture mechanism located on the flip-top lid opposite the hinge; Including, the sealing rim projects inwardly from the upper surface; a molding step, wherein the plurality of alignment bulges of the base are configured to engage the retaining ring of the vessel to partially separate a lower base ring from a remainder of the closure cap when the closure cap is at least partially removed from the vessel, thereby forming a first tamper-evident configuration; a closing step of closing the flip-top lid onto the base to secure the one or more upstanding protrusions of the base against the tamper-evident capture mechanism of the flip-top lid; a threading step of threading the closure cap onto the filled vessel; Including, A method for manufacturing a filled dispensing bottle.

20. providing a closure cap having a base and a flip-top lid hingedly connected to the base and movable relative to the base via the hinge from a first open position to a second closed position; The base is a skirt having internal threads, a plurality of alignment bulges, and a plurality of discontinuous through cuts; a central surface having a teardrop-shaped opening configured to dispense a fluid condiment, beverage, or cooking oil, and a lip around the opening; one or more upstanding protrusions; and the through cut is disposed partially around the skirt; The flip-top lid is a top surface having a sealing rim configured to engage the lip of the base after assembly to prevent fluid from passing through the closure cap; a capture mechanism located on the flip-top lid opposite the hinge; Including, the sealing rim projects inwardly from the upper surface; the plurality of alignment bulges on the base are configured to engage a bottle retaining ring to separate a lower base ring from a remainder of the closure cap when the closure cap is removed from the bottle, thereby providing a first tamper-evident configuration; providing, wherein the one or more upstanding protrusions on the base and the capture mechanism on the flip-top lid form a second tamper-evident configuration; or rotating the flip-top lid from the second closed position to the first open position, separating the one or more upstanding projections from the base and holding the one or more upstanding projections against the flip-top lid via the capture mechanism, and allowing the fluid to pour through the teardrop-shaped opening; Including, A method for dispensing fluid from a filled dispensing bottle.

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