Container closure assembly and container having a closure assembly

Abstract

A closure assembly (3) for a container (1) filled with or fillable with a pourable product is described, comprising: a collar (14) including an external threaded portion; a lid (8) including an internal threaded portion, the internal and external threaded portions configured to secure the lid (8) to the collar (14) by rotating the lid (8) relative to the collar (14); a ring member (9); a cutting device (18); a control device configured to control the cutting device (18); and one or more coupling elements (101, 102), each having a first end (101A, 102A) connected to the lid (8) and a second end (101B, 102B) connected to the ring member (9). In the open state, the lid (8) is rotatable around the torsion axis (H), and in this state, the first rim (27) of the lid (8) can be positioned in a temporary locking position, at least partially, to rest against the outer threaded portion (140) of the collar (14).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a closure assembly for a container, particularly a container that can be filled with pourable products, and more particularly a container that can be filled with or filled with pourable food products.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a container that can be filled with or filled with pourable products, more specifically a container that can be filled with or filled with pourable food products, and having a closure assembly.

Background Art

[0003] As is well known, many liquids or pourable food products such as fruit juice, UHT (ultra-high temperature treated) milk, wine, tomato sauce, etc. are sold in containers such as composite packages, bottles, cans, etc.

[0004] Furthermore, it is known that such containers are provided with a closure assembly so that the pourable product in the container can be selectively dispensed.

[0005] A typical closure assembly includes a collar having a pouring outlet connected to the container and enabling the pouring of the pourable product from the container, and a lid configured to selectively open and close the pouring outlet and connected to the collar when the pouring outlet is closed.

[0006] Furthermore, it is known that the closure assembly typically includes a ring member coupled to and surrounding the collar. The axial movement of the ring member along the collar is typically restricted by an annular ridge projecting radially from the collar to ensure that the ring member remains coupled to the collar.

[0007] Furthermore, before the lid is initially removed, the ring member and the lid are connected to each other by a connecting bridge, which breaks while the lid is being initially removed from the collar. After the lid is initially removed from the collar, the ring member and the lid are separated from each other.

[0008] The lid detaches from the ring component, and therefore, when removing the lid from the collar to open the spout, the lid separates from the container, which is inconvenient. This means, for example, that the user needs to hold the lid with one hand and the container with the other. Furthermore, this inconvenience can lead to the lid being carelessly discarded.

[0009] To overcome these inconveniences, it has been proposed to attach the lid to a ring member using a connecting element. Although such closure assemblies work satisfactorily, there is a desire in this field for further improvements to such closure assemblies. In particular, tethered caps have the inconvenience that once the cap is opened, the lid interferes with the spout when pouring liquid products from the container. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0010] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved closure assembly for a container that can be filled with or filled with pourable products, and more particularly for a container that can be filled with or filled with pourable food, in a simple and low-cost manner.

[0011] Advantageously, a further objective of the present invention is to provide, in a simple and low-cost manner, an improved closure assembly for containers that minimizes the strain acting on the ring member during the operation of each lid.

[0012] Advantageously, another object of the present invention is to provide, in a simple and low-cost manner, a container that can be filled or filled with a pourable product, and more particularly with a pourable food, having a closure assembly that minimizes the strain acting on the ring member during the operation of each lid.

[0013] According to the present invention, a closure assembly according to independent claim 1 is provided.

[0014] Further advantageous embodiments of the closure assembly are provided in the dependent claims.

[0015] According to the present invention, the container described in claim 14 is provided.

[0016] According to the present invention, the method described in claim 15 is provided. [Means for solving the problem]

[0017] Hereinafter, non-limiting embodiments of the present invention will be described illustratively with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view of a part of a container having a closure assembly according to the present invention, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of the closure assembly, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is an enlarged perspective view showing details of the closure assembly, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 4] This is a further enlarged perspective view showing details of the closure assembly in Figure 1, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 5] This figure shows the closure assembly in the open position before the lid is rotated around the torsion axis. [Figure 6]This is a diagram showing the closure assembly of FIG. 1 in an open state before rotating the lid around the torsion axis. [Figure 7] This is a diagram showing the closure assembly of FIG. 1 in an open state after rotating the lid around the torsion axis. [Figure 8] This is a diagram showing the closure assembly of FIG. 1 in an open state after rotating the lid around the torsion axis. [Figure 9] This is a diagram showing the closure assembly of FIG. 1 in an open state after rotating the lid around the torsional axis.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] Reference numeral 1 generally indicates a container such as a bottle, (composite) package, can, etc., and includes a body 2 and a closure assembly that can be coupled or is coupled to the body 2.

[0020] Although not essential, preferably, the container 1 is filled with or can be filled with a pourable product, particularly a pourable food product, more particularly, a sterilized and / or aseptically processed pourable food product such as fruit juice, milk (e.g., ultra-high temperature treated milk), water, wine, tomato sauce, sugar, salt, etc.

[0021] In the following description, reference is made to a composite container 1, particularly a container 1 obtained from a web of packaging material having a multi-layer structure, but this is not intended to limit the scope of protection defined by the appended claims.

[0022] Particularly, the web of packaging material comprises at least one layer of a fibrous material such as a paper or cardboard layer, and at least two layers of a heat-seal plastic material such as polyethylene that sandwich the layers of fibrous material between each other. One of these two layers of heat-seal plastic material defines the inner surface of the body 2 that contacts the pourable product.

[0023] The packaging material preferably includes a web, gas barrier and light barrier material layers, such as aluminum foil or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film, and is particularly positioned between one of the heat-sealable plastic material layers and a fibrous material layer. The packaging material web preferably also includes a further heat-sealable plastic material layer interposed between the gas barrier / light barrier material layer and the fibrous material layer.

[0024] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the body 2 defines a sealed package, particularly a sealed carton package, having a designated spout surface area (not shown as it is known), and the closure assembly 3 is attached to the body 2, particularly around the designated spout surface area.

[0025] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the closure assembly 3 is applied to the body 2 before, during, or after the formation, filling, and sealing of the body 2 by a molding process and / or adhesive bonding and / or ultrasonic bonding.

[0026] Alternatively, the closure assembly 3 can be applied to the web of the packaging material before or while the web of the packaging material is being advanced in a packaging machine for forming, filling, and sealing the body 2 from the web of the packaging material.

[0027] Referring particularly to Figure 1, the main body 2 extends along the vertical axis A, the first horizontal axis B, and the second horizontal axis C. Specifically, axis A is perpendicular to axes B and C, and axes B and C are perpendicular to each other.

[0028] While not mandatory, preferably, the extension of body 2 along axis A is greater than the extension of body 2 along axes B and C.

[0029] While not mandatory, the main body 2 is preferably in the shape of a parallelepiped.

[0030] According to the non-limiting embodiments disclosed, the body 2 comprises a first wall portion which is particularly lateral with respect to axis A, and more particularly perpendicular, from which the body 2 extends along axis A. Preferably, though not essential, the first wall portion defines a support surface of the container 1, particularly the body 2, which can be in contact with a support, such as a shelf, when exposed or stored, for example, in a sales outlet during use. In particular, when placed on a support and / or when a consumer consumes a pourable product from the container 1 during use, the first wall portion defines a bottom wall portion.

[0031] While not mandatory, preferably, the main body 2 comprises a plurality of side walls 4 that are (fixedly) connected to the first wall and extend from the first wall substantially parallel to the axis A.

[0032] While not mandatory, preferably, the main body 2 includes at least one second wall portion 5 located opposite the first wall portion and (fixedly) connected to the side wall 4. In other words, the side wall 4 is interposed between the first wall portion and the second wall portion 5. In particular, when placed on a support and / or during use, when a consumer consumes a product that can be poured from the container 1, the second wall portion 5 defines the top wall portion.

[0033] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the first wall and the second wall 5 may be parallel to each other. Alternatively, the first wall and the second wall 5 may be inclined relative to each other.

[0034] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the second wall portion 5 has a predetermined surface area for the spout.

[0035] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, a surface area of ​​a predetermined spout of the body 2 is provided with a spout for discharging a product that can be poured out of the body 2.

[0036] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, a surface area of ​​a given spout comprises a separation membrane that seals the spout. In particular, the separation membrane is configured to be at least partially (and irreversibly) openable and / or burstable and / or cutable and / or perforated so as to hold the pourable product in the body 2 when the pourable product is intact and to allow the pourable product to flow out of the body 2 through at least a portion of the spout. In particular, the separation membrane is configured to allow the pourable product to flow out after the pourable product has lost its integrity and to protect the pourable product from the external environment before it is cut and / or opened and / or burst and / or perforated.

[0037] While not essential, preferably, the separation membrane includes a gas and light barrier material, such as aluminum foil or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film.

[0038] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the separation membrane is defined by a portion of the web of the packaging material, and in particular, a portion of the layer of the web of the packaging material is distinct from the layer of the fibrous material.

[0039] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the closure assembly 3 comprises and / or is formed from a polymer material.

[0040] Alternatively, the closure assembly 3 includes and / or is formed from a metallic material.

[0041] Referring particularly to Figures 1 to 4, the closure assembly 3 comprises at least a closing group, and the closing group is - lid 8; - Ring member 9; and - One or more connecting elements 101, 102, in a specific example, two connecting elements 101, 102 are connected to the lid 8 and the ring member 9. It is equipped with.

[0042] Preferably, the closed group is integrally molded from a molten polymer.

[0043] It should be noted that the coupling elements 101 and 102 are connected to the lid 8 and ring member 9 in a manner that is unbreakable and / or at least resistant to separation. This means that during normal use of the closure assembly 3, the coupling elements 101 and 102 remain connected to the lid 8 and ring member 9. In particular, the coupling elements 101 and 102 are connected to the lid 8 and ring member 9 in a manner that resists forces exceeding those normally acting during normal use of the closure assembly 3. An example of such excess forces is when a user attempts to remove the coupling elements 101 and 102 from the lid 8 and / or ring member 9 by pulling the lid 8 and ring member 9 in opposite directions.

[0044] In particular, the connecting elements 101 and 102 connect the lid 8 and the ring member 9 to each other.

[0045] According to some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, the closure assembly 3 comprises one or more burstable first connecting bridges 11 that connect the ring member 9 and the lid 8 to each other. In particular, as will be described in more detail below, the first connecting bridges 11 are configured to burst during the initial operation of the lid 8 (by the consumer).

[0046] While not required, preferably, the closure assembly 3 comprises a tamper-evidence ring 12 and one or more ruptureable (second) connecting bridges 13 that connect the tamper-evidence ring 12 and the ring member 9 to each other. In particular, as will be described in more detail below, the second connecting bridges 13 are configured to rupture during the initial operation of the lid 8.

[0047] In particular, the ring member 9 is interposed between the lid 8 and the tamper-evidence ring 12.

[0048] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the closure assembly 3 also comprises a collar 14 defining and / or having a spout 15, the spout 15 being configured to allow a pourable product to flow out of the container 1.

[0049] In particular, color 14 is positioned around the dispensing hole.

[0050] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the collar 14 extends along the longitudinal axis E. In particular, the collar 14 has an annular shape, and more specifically, an annular cross-sectional shape with respect to a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis E.

[0051] In particular, the collar 14 defines and / or partitions and / or provides a channel for the pourable product. More specifically, the channel is interposed and / or designed to be interposed between the spout 15 and the dispensing hole.

[0052] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the ring member 9 and / or tamper-evidence ring 12 are attached to the collar 14 and positioned around the collar 14.

[0053] Preferably, the second ring member 9 and / or tamper-evidence ring 12 are coaxial with the collar 14.

[0054] Preferably, the lid 8 is connected to and / or connectable to the collar 14 and is configured to selectively close or open the spout 15 in order to prevent or allow the outflow of the pourable product from the container 1 through the spout 15, respectively.

[0055] According to some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, the lid 8 can be controlled to at least a closed position (see Figures 1 to 4) configured to close the lid 8 and / or close the spout 15, and an open position (not shown) configured to open the lid 8 and / or open the spout 15.

[0056] Preferably, the lid 8 is controlled to a closed position and an open position, with the lid 8 either coupled to or detached from the collar 14. In particular, when the lid 8 is controlled to the closed position, it is coaxial with the collar 14 and / or the spout 15, and when the lid 8 is controlled to the open position, it is preferably lateral to the collar 14, although this is not essential. In other words, when the lid 8 is in the closed position, the lid 8 is connected to the collar 14 and covers the spout 15, and when the lid 8 is in the open position, the lid 8 is separated from the collar 14 and clears the spout 15.

[0057] More specifically, in the disclosed examples, the lid 8 is controlled between a closed position and an open position by a screwing action. In particular, the lid 8 has an internal thread portion located particularly on the inner surface of the lid 8, and the collar 14 has an external thread portion 140 located particularly on the outer surface of the collar 14. Preferably, the internal and external thread portions 140 are configured to selectively tighten and loosen the lid 8 relative to the collar 14 by relative rotation between the lid 8 and the collar 14. The lid 8 can be positioned in a closed state fixed to the collar 14 and in an open state disconnected from the collar (even if the first and second connecting elements 101, 102 are still connected to the collar 14). In Figures 1 and 3, the lid 8 is positioned in the closed state, but in Figures 6 to 9, it is positioned in the open state.

[0058] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the internal thread portion and / or external thread portion 140 define a cam mechanism.

[0059] Prior to the initial control (initial operation) of the lid 8 from the closed position to the open position, the first connecting bridge 11 connects the ring member 9 and the lid 8 to each other, and it should be noted that during use, while the lid 8 is being controlled from the closed position to the open position for the first time, the first connecting bridge 11 will irreversibly break.

[0060] In particular, the second connecting bridge 13 connects the ring member 9 and the tamper-evidence ring 12 in an equivalent manner before the lid 8 is first controlled from the closed position to the open position, and during use, the second connecting bridge 13 irreversibly breaks while the lid 8 is first controlled from the closed position to the open position.

[0061] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the closure assembly 3 further comprises a coupling base 16 that supports the collar 14. The coupling base 16 is configured to couple and / or connect to the body 2.

[0062] While not mandatory, preferably, the binding base 16 is configured and / or fixed to the outer surface of the container 1, particularly its body 2, and more particularly to the outer surface of the second wall portion 6. In particular, the binding base 16 is more specifically positioned on the surface area of ​​the designated spout.

[0063] In particular, the coupling base 16 has an opening, and the collar 14 surrounds the opening so that when in use, the separating membrane is opened and / or cut and / or ruptured and / or penetrated, thereby establishing fluid communication between the inside of the body 2 and the spout 15 (i.e., the pourable product can flow out of the container 1).

[0064] While not essential, preferably, at least a portion of the bonding base 16 has a (substantially) plate-like structure.

[0065] According to some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, the closure assembly 3, in particular the collar 14, includes an interacting device configured to interact with the ring member 9 to prevent the ring member 9 from detaching from the collar 14. In particular, the interacting device is configured to restrict the axial movement of the ring member 9 along the longitudinal axis E.

[0066] More specifically, the interacting device includes an annular ridge 17 (radially) projecting (radially) from the collar 14. In particular, the annular ridge 17 projects (radially) from the outer surface of the collar 14 and moves away from the outer surface of the collar 14. According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the annular ridge 17 has a continuous shape. Alternatively, the annular ridge 17 may have a discontinuous shape (for example, the annular ridge 17 may be formed from a number of single pieces projecting from the collar 14).

[0067] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the closure assembly 3 comprises an interaction unit coupled in particular to the collar 14, which interacts with the ring member 9 and / or tamper-evidence ring 12 during the initial time when the lid 8 is controlled from the closed position to the open position to actuate the rupture of the first connecting bridge 11 and / or the second connecting bridge 13.

[0068] Referring particularly to Figure 2, the closure assembly 3 also includes a cutting device 18 configured to rupture and / or penetrate and / or cut and / or open the separation membrane, and a control device configured to control the cutting device 18 from a stationary position to an operating position adapted to cause the cutting device 18 to rupture and / or penetrate and / or cut and / or open the separation membrane.

[0069] While not mandatory, preferably the cutting device 18 has an annular shape and is positioned within the flow path of the collar 14 when in a stationary position, and at least partially protrudes from the flow path when controlled to an operating position.

[0070] In particular, the cutting device 18 is positioned in a resting position before the lid 8 is first controlled from the closed position to the open position, and is positioned in an operating position after the lid 8 has been first controlled to the open position.

[0071] While not mandatory, preferably, the cutting device 18 is positioned both when in the stationary position and in a position axially elevated relative to the operating position (relative to the longitudinal axis E).

[0072] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the control device comprises a control flap 19, preferably connected to the lid 8. The control device may also comprise an interaction element 20 connected to the cutting device 18. The control device may also comprise a cam mechanism 21 (see Figure 2; not described in detail as it is known) that is partially related to the cutting device 18 and partially related to the collar 14.

[0073] According to some non-limiting embodiments not shown, the cam mechanism 21 may include each threaded portion.

[0074] While not mandatory, preferably, the control device is configured to operate when the lid 8 is first controlled from the closed position to the open position in order to move the cutting device 18 from the stationary position to the operating position (irreversibly).

[0075] Referring particularly to Figures 1 to 4, the ring member 9 has a central axis F. Specifically, the central axis F is parallel to the longitudinal axis E, and more specifically, coaxial with the longitudinal axis E, when the ring member 9 and / or closure assembly 3 are coupled to the collar 14.

[0076] In particular, the central axis F defines the central axis of the closed group.

[0077] Preferably, the lid 8 is positioned coaxially with the ring member 9 and / or the central axis F when the lid 8 is in the closed position.

[0078] Preferably, the tamper-evidence ring 12 is coaxial with the ring member 9 and / or the central axis F.

[0079] Referring specifically to Figures 1 to 4, the lid 8 is configured as follows: - A top wall 25 configured to cover the spout 15 when the lid 8 is in the closed position; - Side walls 26 projecting (axially) from the top wall 25, and configured to at least partially surround the collar 14 when the lid 8 is controlled to the closed position (and / or closed position).

[0080] Preferably, the side walls 26 have their respective annular cross-sectional profiles with respect to a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis E and / or central axis F, when the lid 8 is in the closed position.

[0081] In particular, with the lid 8 in the closed position, the top wall 25 is lateral, especially perpendicular, to the central axis F, and the side walls 26 are (substantially) parallel to the longitudinal axis E and / or the central axis F.

[0082] According to several possible non-limiting embodiments, the lid 8, in particular the top wall 25 and / or side walls 26, are coupled to and detached from the collar 14 when the lid 8 is in the closed and open positions, respectively, during use.

[0083] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, the lid 8, in particular the side walls 26, comprises a first rim 27. In particular, the first rim 27 defines an opening in the lid 8 that faces the top wall 25.

[0084] The first rim 27 may have a first surface 28.

[0085] More specifically, the first surface 28 extends within the first plane, which in particular is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis E and / or central axis F when the lid 8 is in the closed position.

[0086] According to some preferred, non-limiting embodiments, the ring member 9 comprises a second rim 29 facing the first rim 27, particularly when the lid 8 is in the closed position.

[0087] The second rim 29 may have a second surface 30 facing the first surface 28.

[0088] More specifically, the second surface 30 extends within the second plane. Preferably, the second plane is parallel to the first plane, particularly when the lid 8 is in the closed position.

[0089] Referring particularly to Figures 2 to 4, each connecting element 101, 102 preferably has at least the following configuration: - Each has one (straight) intermediate section 35; - Cover 8, in particular the first rim 27, and even more particularly the first surface 28, and each one first curved portion 36 connected to the intermediate portion 35; and - A ring member 9, in particular the second rim 29, and more specifically the second surface 30, and each of the two second curved portions 37 connected to the intermediate portion 35.

[0090] In other words, each connecting element 101, 102 preferably includes an intermediate portion 35 interposed between the first curved portion 36 and the second curved portion 37.

[0091] More specifically, each intermediate portion 35 comprises a first end 38 and a second end 39 opposite to the first end 38. Preferably, the intermediate portion 35 extends (substantially and) linearly between the first end 38 and the second end 39.

[0092] In particular, the first curved section 36 is connected to the first end section 38, and the second curved section 37 is connected to the second end section 39.

[0093] Preferably, each connecting element 101, 102 is S-shaped.

[0094] Advantageously, each intermediate portion 35 is preferably inclined and / or not parallel to the lid 8, in particular the first rim 27, and even more particularly the first surface 28, in the absence of external stresses and / or forces acting on the closure assembly 3 (which may result from the user operating the closure assembly 3).

[0095] Alternatively or additionally, each intermediate portion 35 is preferably inclined and / or not parallel to the ring member 9, in particular the second rim 29, and more particularly the second surface 30, in the absence of external stresses and / or forces acting on the closure assembly 3 (which may result from the user manipulating the closure assembly 3).

[0096] Preferably, each intermediate portion 35 is inclined with respect to the first plane and / or the second plane, and / or not parallel, in particular, when there are no external stresses and / or strains and / or forces acting on the closure assembly 3 (which may result from the user operating the closure assembly 3).

[0097] In other words, each intermediate portion 35 comprises at least two virtual linear projections 40, one extending linearly from the first end 38 and away from the first end 38, and the other extending linearly from the second end 39 and away from the second end 39. In particular, the virtual linear projections 40 intersect the first plane and / or the second plane.

[0098] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, each intermediate portion 35 is inclined with respect to the central axis F and / or longitudinal axis E. In particular, each intermediate portion 35 is lateral with respect to the central axis F and / or longitudinal axis E, but not perpendicular (i.e., each intermediate portion 35 draws an angle between 0° and 90° with respect to the central axis F and / or longitudinal axis E, excluding 0° and 90°).

[0099] Preferably, the closure assembly 3 comprises a gap 41 positioned between and / or separated by the lid 8, particularly the first rim 27, and even more particularly the first surface 28, and the ring member 9, particularly the second rim 29, and even more particularly the second surface 30, with each coupling element 101, 102 positioned within the gap 41.

[0100] Referring particularly to Figures 2 to 4, each first curved section 36 is connected to the first rim 27, in particular to the first surface 30, at its respective first position 42, and each second curved section 37 is connected to the second rim 29, in particular to the second surface 30, at its respective second position 43.

[0101] Advantageously, each first position 42 and each second position 43 are angularly offset from each other, particularly axially, especially around (and along) the central axis F.

[0102] According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, each first curved portion 36 is convex with respect to the ring member 9, and each second curved portion 37 is concave with respect to the ring member 9. In other words, each first curved portion 36 is concave with respect to the lid 8, and each second curved portion 37 is convex with respect to the lid 8.

[0103] In particular, each first curved portion 36 is curved toward the ring member 9 (facing toward the ring member 9), and each second curved portion 37 is curved toward the lid 8 (facing toward the lid 8).

[0104] Advantageously, each coupling element 101, 102 is elastically deformable, and in particular, the coupling elements 101, 102 act as spring elements during use, while handling and / or operating the closure assembly 3, especially the closing group (e.g., moving the lid 8 from the closed position to the open position).

[0105] More specifically, each first curved portion 36 constitutes a first engagement surface 44, and each second curved portion 37 constitutes a second engagement surface 45. Preferably, each connecting element 101, 102 is deformable such that its respective first engagement surface 44 abuts against the lid 8 (each first contact portion of the first rim 27, particularly the first contact portion of the first surface 28) and its second engagement surface 45 abuts against the ring member 9 (the second contact portion of the second rim 29, particularly the second contact portion of the second surface 30).

[0106] In other words, each first engagement surface 44 and each second engagement surface 45 are adapted to engage with each first contact and each second contact, respectively, particularly during handling and / or operation of the closure assembly 3, and more particularly during handling and / or operation of the closure group. In particular during use, each engagement surface 44 and each engagement surface 45 engage with each first contact and each second contact, respectively, while removing the closure group from the mold tool and / or while attaching the closure group to the collar 14.

[0107] Furthermore, during use, the connecting elements 101 and 102 may deform as a result of strain and / or stress and / or force acting on the closure assembly 3, particularly the closing group 7, during handling and / or operation (e.g., the movement of the lid 8 from the closed position to the open position).

[0108] During use, the consumer selectively opens and closes the spout 15 by operating the closure assembly 3, particularly the closing group, to control the lid 8 in the open or closed position.

[0109] In particular, prior to the first operation of the closure assembly 3, especially the closing group, the lid 8 is in the closed position, and the first connecting bridge 11 and preferably the second connecting bridge 13 are intact (i.e., not broken). When the lid 8 is first controlled from the closed position to the open position, the first connecting bridge 11 and preferably the second connecting bridge 13 also break irreversibly.

[0110] This ensures that the connecting elements 101 and 102 are connected (fixed) to each other, the lid 8 and the ring member 9. Furthermore, this means that the lid 8 is joined to the collar 14 by the ring member 9. In addition, the tamper-evidence ring 12 is detached from the ring member 9, enabling tamper-proofing.

[0111] Furthermore, while the lid 8 is first controlled from the stationary position to the operating position, the cutting device 18 is activated, in particular cutting and / or penetrating and / or opening and / or rupturing the separation membrane.

[0112] During the operation of the closure group, particularly during the control of the lid 8, the coupling elements 101 and 102 elastically deform between the closed and open positions, thereby at least partially absorbing external stresses and / or forces acting on the closure assembly 3 and / or the closure group.

[0113] Furthermore, each first engagement surface 44 and each second engagement surface 45 can abut against the opposing first contact portion and the opposing second contact portion, respectively.

[0114] Referring particularly to Figures 2 to 4, the inner threaded portion (on the lid 8) and the outer threaded portion (on the collar 14) are configured to allow the lid 8 to be fixed to the collar 14 by rotating the lid 8 in a first rotational direction relative to the collar 14, and / or to be loosened from the lid 8 by rotating the lid 8 in a second rotational direction relative to the collar 14. The second rotational direction is opposite to the first rotational direction.

[0115] Each connecting element 101, 102 has a first end 101A, 102A connected to the lid 8 and a second end 101B, 102B connected to the ring member 9. In particular, each connecting element 101, 102 is elongated between its respective first end 101A, 102A and its respective second end 101B, 102B.

[0116] In each coupling element 101, 102, the first ends 101A, 102A are positioned downstream of the second ends 101B, 102B along the second rotational direction. In other words, in each coupling element 101, 102, the first ends 101A, 102A are positioned upstream of the second ends 101B, 102B along the first rotational direction. This configuration is particularly advantageous during the initial opening of the closure assembly (when the separation membrane is broken by the cutting device 18), and in fact, it allows the lid 8 (held by the user) to drag the ring member 9 in the second direction without putting excessive stress on the coupling elements 101, 102. Therefore, even if a large force is required to break the separation membrane, the coupling elements 101, 102 will not break.

[0117] Preferably, the first ends 101A and 102A of each connecting element 101 and 102 are connected to the first rim 27 of the lid 8. Preferably, the second ends 101B and 102B of each connecting element 101 and 102 are connected to the second rim 29 of the ring member 9.

[0118] Preferably, the closure assembly 3 comprises a first coupling element 101 and a second coupling element 102 defining one or more coupling elements 101, 102. The first coupling element 101 and the second coupling element 101 are angularly separated from each other (along the first and / or second rotational directions). In particular, the first coupling element 101 is positioned upstream of the second coupling element 102 along the second rotational direction. More specifically, the first end 101A of the first coupling element 101 is positioned upstream of the first end 102A of the second coupling element 102, and the second end 101B of the first coupling element 101 is positioned upstream of the second end 102B of the second coupling element 102 along the second rotational direction. More preferably, the first end 101A of the first coupling element 102 is positioned upstream of the second end 102B of the second coupling element 102 along the second rotational direction.

[0119] In one embodiment, the first coupling element 101 and the second coupling element 102 are positioned within an angular sector having an angular extension in the range of 20 to 180 degrees (preferably 20 to 100 degrees, more preferably 20 to 90 degrees, and even more preferably 30 to 80 degrees) around the central axis F of the closure assembly 3.

[0120] Preferably, the minimum distance between the first coupling element 101 and the second coupling element 102 is greater than the minimum thickness of the first coupling element 101 and / or the second coupling element 102. In particular, the minimum thickness is considered to be along the circumference of the closure assembly.

[0121] The first and second connecting elements 101 and 102 are structured such that the lid 8 has a hinge axis L that allows it to rotate relative to the ring member. In particular, when the lid 8 moves from a closed state to an open state, it rotates about the hinge axis L, and vice versa. Note that when the lid 8 moves from a closed state to an open state, and vice versa, it can move by both rotational motion about the hinge axis L and movement along the longitudinal axis E.

[0122] When the lid 8 is in the open position, it is further rotatable around a torsion axis H. The torsion axis H is substantially perpendicular to the hinge axis L. Preferably, the torsion axis H is also substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis E. By rotating around the torsion axis H, the lid 8 can be positioned in a temporary locking position in which the first rim 27 of the lid 8 contacts, at least partially, the external threaded portion 140 of the collar. The temporary locking position is a stable position.

[0123] The lid 8, positioned in a temporary locked position, is located on the side of the collar 14. When viewed from directly above (as shown in Figure 9, etc.), the spout is completely free, meaning the lid 8 is completely outside of it. In this way, the lid 8 does not obstruct the flow of the product.

[0124] In particular, the closure assembly is designed so that the user starts from the closed state and performs the following actions in sequence: 1) Rotate the lid 8 around the longitudinal axis E relative to the collar 14 to remove the lid from the collar 14 and move the lid 8 from the closed state to the open state. 2) In the open state, rotate the lid 8 relative to the collar 14 around the hinge axis L, and at the same time move the lid 8 (slightly) along the longitudinal axis E, partially moving the lid 8 away from the spout (to the intermediate position shown in Figures 5 and 6). 3) While the lid is still open, rotate the lid 8 around the torsion axis H relative to the collar 14 to move the lid 8 to a temporary locked position (shown in Figures 7, 8, and 9). 4) Dispense the product from the container through the spout 15.

[0125] In the closed position, the length of the first connecting element 101 is greater than the distance from the second end 101B of the first connecting element 101 to the first end 101A of the first connecting element 101, and the length of the second connecting element 102 is greater than the distance from the second end 102B of the second connecting element 102 to the first end 102A of the second connecting element 102. Such lengths of the first and second connecting elements 101, 102, combined with the appropriate selection of material and elasticity of the first and second connecting elements 101, 102, allow the lid 8 to be twisted around the torsion axis H and placed in a temporary locked position.

[0126] In the open state, before the lid 8 is rotated around the twist axis H, the first coupling element 101, the second coupling element 102, the first rim 27 of the lid 8, and the second rim 29 of the ring member 9 define an opening. In particular, the opening has a bottom boundary defined by the second rim 29, an upper boundary defined by the first rim 27, and a pair of side boundaries defined by the first and second coupling elements 101 and 102. The twist axis H passes through this opening. This opening is shown, for example, in Figure 5.

[0127] Preferably, in the temporary locked position of the lid 8, the first rim 27 of the lid 8 is positioned at least partially below the outer threaded portion 140 along the longitudinal axis E (i.e., the first rim 27 of the lid 8 is closer to the coupling base 16 than at least a portion of the outer threaded portion 140). In particular, the elasticity of the first and second coupling elements 101, 102 twisted around the torsion axis H pushes the lid 8 away from the coupling base 16, while the outer threaded portion 140 acts as an obstruction, pressing the first rim 27 against the outer threaded portion 140 and holding the lid 8 in the temporary locked position.

[0128] It should be noted that the lid 8 is rotatable together with the ring 9 about the longitudinal axis E, and the outer threaded portion 140 extends 360 degrees about the longitudinal axis E, so the lid 8 can be positioned in all temporary locking positions about the longitudinal axis E, that is, the lid 8 can be positioned in all temporary locking positions about the longitudinal axis E.

[0129] Preferably, in the temporary locked position of the lid 8, the lid 8 rests on a plane that is inclined at an angle with respect to a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction E. This angle is preferably between 5 and 60 degrees, and more preferably between 10 and 30 degrees. As a result, the axis G of the lid (the axis on which the first rim 27 extends circumferentially) is inclined at this angle with respect to the longitudinal axis E.

[0130] Preferably, in the temporary locked position of the lid 8, the inner surface of the top wall 25 of the lid 8 faces the coupling base 16. When the lid 8 is in the closed position, the inner surface of the top wall 25 faces the spout 15.

[0131] This disclosure also provides a method for opening a closure assembly 3 applied to a container 1 filled with a dispensable product. The closure assembly 3 conforms to one or more embodiments of this disclosure. The method includes the following steps: - The lid 8 is rotated relative to the collar 14 around the longitudinal axis E, moving the lid 8 from a closed state where it is fixed to the collar 14 to an open state where it is released from the collar 14; The lid 8 is rotated around the longitudinal axis E, and the cutting device 18 is controlled from a stationary position to an operating position via the control device; With the lid 8 in the open position, the lid 8 is further rotated around the torsion axis H to position the lid 8 in a temporary locked position. In this temporary locked position, the first rim 27 of the lid 8 contacts, at least partially, the external threaded portion 140 of the collar 14.

[0132] The advantages of the closure assembly 3 according to the present invention should be clear from the above description.

[0133] Firstly, since the lid 8 can be placed in a temporary locked position, it is ensured that the lid does not obstruct the outflow of the product from the spout.

[0134] In particular, the connecting elements 101 and 102 allow any strain and / or stress and / or force acting on the closure assembly 3, especially the closing group 7, to be dampened.

[0135] A further advantage has been observed in that the handling and / or operation of the closure assembly 3, particularly the closure group 7, is more consumer-friendly.

[0136] Furthermore, by providing two or more connecting elements 101 and 102, it is possible to increase the tethering force between the ring member 9 and the lid 8.

[0137] Another advantage relates to the attachment of the closure group 7 to the collar 14. To attach the closure group 7 to the collar 14, the closure group 7 is pressed against the collar 14. This allows the coupling elements 101 and 102 to absorb at least a portion of the acting force, thereby reducing the risk of possible deformation of the collar 14 and / or the container 1 and / or the closure group. In particular, each first engaging surface 44 and each second engaging surface 45 abut against the lid 8 and the ring member 9, respectively.

[0138] The applicant has also observed that by the specific formation of the connecting elements 101 and 102, it is possible to design a forming tool with a longer lifespan for connecting elements 10 having other shapes. In particular, by the specific shape and size of the connecting elements 101 and 102, it is possible to provide a forming tool having a portion defining the connecting elements 101 and 102, the portion having dimensions that provide a longer lifespan.

[0139] Furthermore, when removing the closing group from the molding die, the first engaging surface 44 and the second engaging surface 45 come into contact with the lid 8 and the ring member 9, respectively, thus limiting deformation.

[0140] However, modifications may be made to the container 1 and / or closure assembly 3 described herein without departing from the scope of protection defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A closure assembly (3) for a container (1) filled with or capable of being filled with a pourable product, A collar (14) defines a spout (15) that extends around the longitudinal axis (E), includes an external threaded portion (140), and is configured to allow the pourable product to flow out of the container, A lid (8) having a first rim (27) and including an internal threaded portion, the internal threaded portion and the external threaded portion are configured such that the lid (8) can be fixed to the collar (14) by rotating the lid (8) relative to the collar (14) about the longitudinal axis (E), and the lid (8) can be positioned in a closed state fixed to the collar (14) and an open state released from the collar (14). A ring member (9) having a second rim (29) facing the first rim (27), A cutting device (18) configured to break a separation membrane that seals the dispensing hole provided in the container, A control device comprising a control flap (19) connected to the lid (8), and configured to control the cutting device (18) from a stationary position to an operating position adapted to cause the cutting device (18) to rupture the separation membrane, The device comprises a first coupling element (101) and a second coupling element (102), each angularly spaced apart from one another, and each having a first end (101A, 102A) connected to the first rim (27) of the lid (8) and a second end (101B, 102B) connected to the second rim (29) of the ring member (9), wherein the first coupling element (101) and the second coupling element (102), and the lid (8) have a hinge axis (L) that is rotatable relative to the ring member (9), In the open state, the lid (8) is further rotatable about a torsional axis (H) substantially perpendicular to the hinge axis (L), and the lid (8) can be positioned in a temporary locking position in which the first rim (27) of the lid (8) at least partially abuts against the outer threaded portion (140) of the collar (14), and the temporary locking position is a stable position. Closure assembly (3).

2. In the closed state, the length of the first connecting element (101) is greater than the distance from the second end (101B) of the first connecting element (101) to the first end (101A) of the first connecting element (101), and The length of the second connecting element (102) is greater than the distance from the second end (102B) of the second connecting element (102) to the first end (102A) of the second connecting element (102). The closure assembly (3) according to claim 1.

3. Each of the first connecting element (101) and the second connecting element (102) is, The middle section (35) and The first rim (27) and the first curved portion (36) connected to the intermediate portion (35), It comprises the second rim (29) and a second curved portion (37) connected to the intermediate portion (35), The intermediate portion (35) is inclined with respect to the first rim (27) of the lid (8) and / or the second rim (29) of the ring member (9), and in each of the first coupling element (101) and the second coupling element (102), the first curved portion (36) is connected to the first rim (27) at the first end (101A, 102A), and the second curved portion (37) is connected to the second rim (29) at the second end (101B, 102B). The closure assembly (3) according to claim 2.

4. The first rim (27) has a first surface (28), The second rim (29) has a second surface (30) that faces the first surface (28), Each first curved portion (36) is connected to the first surface (28), and each second curved portion (36) is connected to the second surface (30). Each intermediate portion (35) is inclined with respect to the first surface (28) and / or the second surface (30), each first curved portion (36) is convex with respect to the ring member (9), and each second curved portion (37) is concave with respect to the ring member (9). The closure assembly (3) according to claim 3.

5. In the open state, before the lid (8) is rotated around the twist axis (H), the first coupling element (101), the second coupling element (102), the first rim (27) of the lid (8), and the second rim (29) of the ring member (9) define an opening, and the twist axis (H) passes through the opening. The closure assembly (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The torsional axis (H) is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (E). A closure assembly (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The first coupling element (101) and the second coupling element (102) are arranged within an angular sector having an angular extension in the range of 20 to 90 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis (E). A closure assembly (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. In the temporary locked position of the lid (8), the first rim (27) of the lid (8) is positioned at least partially below the outer threaded portion along the longitudinal axis (E). The closure assembly (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. In the temporary locked position of the lid (8), the lid (8) is placed on a plane that is angle-inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (E). A closure assembly (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The angle is between 5 and 60 degrees, preferably between 10 and 30 degrees. The closure assembly (3) according to claim 9.

11. The control device further comprises an interaction element (20) connected to the cutting device (18) and a cam mechanism (21) that is partially associated with the cutting device (18) and partially associated with the collar (14). A closure assembly (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The container (1) further comprises a bonding base (16) that supports the collar (14) and is configured to be bonded to the outer surface of the main body (2) of the container (1), wherein at least a portion of the bonding base (16) has a plate-like structure. The lid (8) comprises a top wall (25) configured to cover the spout (15) when the lid (8) is in the closed state, and a side wall (26) protruding from the top wall (25), wherein the top wall (25) has an inner surface facing the spout (15) when the lid (8) is in the closed state. In the temporary locked position of the lid (8), the inner surface of the top wall (25) faces the coupling base (16). A closure assembly (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The present invention further includes a tamper-evidence ring (12) and at least one breakable connecting bridge (13) that breakably connects and / or breakably links the ring member (9) and the tamper-evidence ring (12) to each other. A closure assembly (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A pourable product container (1) comprising at least one body (2) into which a pourable product is filled or can be filled, and at least one closure assembly (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A method for opening a closure assembly (3) applied to a container (1) filled with a pourable product, The closure assembly (3) is A spout (15) is defined, configured to allow the pourable product to flow out of the container, and a collar (14) extends about the longitudinal axis (E) and includes an external threaded portion (140), A lid (8) having a first rim (27) and an internal threaded portion, A ring member (9) having a second rim (29) facing the first rim (27), Cutting device (18), A control device including a control flap (19) connected to the cover (8), A first coupling element (101) and a second coupling element (102) are angularly spaced apart from each other, each having a first end (101A, 102A) connected to the first rim (27) of the lid (8), and a second end (101B, 102B) connected to the second rim (29) of the ring member (9), Equipped with, This method is The steps include rotating the lid (8) around the longitudinal axis (E) relative to the collar (14) to move the lid (8) from a closed state in which it is fixed to the collar (14) to an open state in which the lid is released from the collar (14), The steps include: rotating the lid (8) around the longitudinal axis (E) and controlling the cutting device (18) via the control device from a stationary position to an operating position in which the cutting device (18) breaks the separation membrane that seals the dispensing hole provided in the container; In the open state, the lid (8) is rotated around a torsion axis (H) substantially perpendicular to the hinge axis (L), so that the lid (8) can be positioned in a temporary locking position where the first rim (27) of the lid (8) at least partially contacts the outer threaded portion (140) of the collar (14), and the temporary locking position is a stable position, step and Methods that include...

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