Tamper-proof liquid dispensing tap with automatic opening

Abstract

a first body (4, 4B) with an anti-removal and anti-counterfeiting element with a sharp edge (4.5, 4B.5); an internal valve or membrane (5) with an elastic dome housed in the first body (4, 4B); a second actuation element (3) housed in and operably coupled to the internal valve or membrane (5); and a cap (2, 2B) with integrated sealing elements (2.1, 2.2, 2.6, 2.8; 2B.1, 2B.2, 2B.6, 2B.8), wherein the integrated sealing elements (2.1, 2.2, 2.6, 2.8; 2B.1, 2B.2, 2B.6, 2B.8) remain fastened to the cap (2, 2B). A tamper-proof liquid dispensing tap (1, 1B) with automatic opening is described, comprising a cap (2, 2B) stably constrained to a first body (4, 4B) to form an inseparable single part, the cap (2, 2B) being further operably coupled to a second drive element (3), the second drive element (3) being designed to be driven by the cap (2) so as to destroy sealing elements (2.1, 2.2, 2.6, 2.8; 2B.1, 2B.2, 2B.6, 2B.8) of the tap (1, 1B) simultaneously with opening.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a tap for dispensing liquids from a container, particularly preferably from a so-called "bag-in-box" container (hereinafter referred to as BIB). [Background technology]

[0002] In particular, the present invention relates to a dispensing tap, preferably for a BIB system with uncapping, which allows dispensing of a fluid contained inside a container (preferably a BIB) created by an actuating element with a protruding flap on the lower outer surface of the flap protruding from the dispenser tap, as shown in Figure 36, on which a lifting force can be applied, preferably transmitted by the index and ring fingers and compensated by the opposite thumb placed in a position opposite to that which performs the lifting.

[0003] In particular, the new inventive taps must, in accordance with new European and international directives on single-use plastic (SUP) articles, have an anti-counterfeiting or anti-tamper system ("tamper evident") with a breaking band that remains attached to the tap without dispersing in the environment, thus supporting their recovery and recycling.

[0004] The tap of the present invention further has a shape that is advantageous for opening the tamper-evident element on the drive element: in particular, the drive element must be coupled to an elastic element arranged inside the body of the tap of the present invention, which allows for opening (thanks to the traction force exerted on the drive element to which it is coupled) and self-closing (thanks to the elastic properties of the material and the special dome shape).

[0005] Furthermore, the tap of the present invention must be compatible with connector solutions available on the market that are the subject of patents in the name of the same owner of the present application (i.e., US Pat. Nos. 5,629,299; ... and 5,629,299).

[0006] In particular, the tap of the present invention can be considered an innovation of the known version currently on the market and protected by patent application WO 02 / 04499.

[0007] Such known dispensing taps, while functioning effectively, are unable to comply with the new European and international directives on single-use plastic articles (SUPs) while maintaining their current construction, as they have a warranty seal that can be torn off and dispersed into the environment if not disposed of properly.

[0008] As shown in Figures 16, 17, 18 and 19, the configuration of a dispensing tap currently on the market is formed from four elements: a first cap 2A, a first actuation element 3A, an internal valve or membrane 5, and a first body 4. Figure 16 shows a currently on the market tap in the closed position, with the tamper-evident seal intact and emphasizing that the system (preferably the BIB) has not yet been opened as a guarantee to the end consumer. As shown in Figure 35, once the tamper-evident band is removed, the tap is ready to be opened for the first time, as highlighted in the images of Figures 20, 21, 22 and 23. At this stage, the tamper-evident band 2A2 of the first cap 2A in Figures 16, 17, 18, and 19 must be discarded (regardless of whether it is discarded correctly or not, because of its small size, even if it is discarded correctly, it will not be properly recycled and will not ultimately be distinguished, and therefore current applications on the market will no longer comply with the new European and international directives on disposable plastic products (SUP)), after which the first opening can be carried out, as shown in Figure 36.

[0009] Preferably, taps currently on the market can be seen in the open position to allow fluid to be dispensed from the container, as shown in Figures 23, 24, 25 and 26, where the opening force is transmitted to the internal sealing element (internal valve or dome-shaped membrane) 5 of Figure 31, and the first drive element 3A of Figure 18 with the flap 3A1 of Figure 27 is stably connected by its coupling end 3A2 to the cavity of the coupling 5.4 (Figure 21) obtained inside the internal valve or elastic member, as for the version currently on the market also shown in Figures 17, 18 and 25.

[0010] The internal valve or membrane 5 is also intended to be stably and sealingly coupled to the body 4 shown in FIG. 29, particularly with the internal wall 4.4 and the internal throat 4.7 of FIG. 29, in the currently available configuration. The internal valve or membrane 5 is locked in place, and since the internal shape 2A4 of the first cap 2A is stably coupled to the first body 4 of FIG. 29 by welding (particularly ultrasonic welding in the case of conventional taps on the market), the internal valve or membrane 5 resists, among other things, the stresses experienced by the first actuating element 3A of FIG. 27 during the tap 1 opening phase, which are transmitted as described above by the opening force applied to the surface 3A1 of the external flap. A description of the currently available tap 1A is contained in the aforementioned patent document 4, which can be considered a precursor to self-closing dispensers for liquids.

[0011] Referring to FIG. 17, an integral seal 2A with a removable tamper-evident band 2A2 is shown, which, due to its elastic and shape properties, allows the vault to self-close and release the flap 3A1 of the first actuation element 3A of FIG. 27, which is opened by the first actuation element 3A connected via shape 3A2 of FIG. 32 to an internal valve or dome-shaped elastic membrane 5 by a coupling cavity 5.4 of FIG. 31.

[0012] In particular, referring to Figures 15 to 26, they show the transition from the latest versions of prior art dispensing taps currently sold worldwide to the dispensing tap 1A made entirely of plastic material formed by the first body 4 of Figure 29.

[0013] In particular, with reference to Fig. 29, it is formed by a rear elongated zone (rear side 1A) on which the connecting element 4.6 and the anti-removal sharp edge element 4.5 are obtained, which are stably connected to the sharp edge present in the connecting nozzle to the bag (in the BIB version, not shown). With reference to Fig. 19 or 29, the tap 1A can also highlight its front part (front side 1A), in which the front cylinder is arranged perpendicular to the rear side 1A, which, as shown in Figs. 17 and 18, serves as the main seat on which the following is assembled: an internal valve or membrane 5 with an elastic dome made of a flexible elastomeric material, a first drive element 3A connected to the internal valve or membrane 5 with a flexible dome by a mechanical coupling (3A2-5.4) with a connecting end and a connecting cavity, and a first cap 2A with a removable seal 2A2. In particular, with reference to Figure 25, the internal valve or membrane 5 with flexible dome is the "heart" of the dispensing system which actually produces the dispensing tap, based on its position determined by the position of the first drive element 3A, whether it is stably coupled to the first drive element 3A and can exert a traction force on the external flap, which determines whether the tap opens or closes.

[0014] Furthermore, the internal valve or membrane 5 with elastic dome determines the perfect seal of the tap itself against the liquid, interfering with the inner surface of the body, as shown in Figure 18, which shows the following elements: upper seal 4.3 - sealing periphery 5.1, inner wall 4.4 of the lower sealing element (on the liquid outlet hole) - outer vertical wall of the seal 5.3 of the valve or membrane 5A with elastic dome on the body 4A.

[0015] Furthermore, the internal valve or membrane with elastic dome 5 has the function of a "spring" that allows the liquid dispensing hole to be opened and closed, as shown in FIG. 25. Again, the main feature of the internal valve or membrane with elastic dome 5 with spring allows the tap 1A to be automatically closed when the flaps of the first actuation element 3A are released, so that no action is applied to them. For better definition, the first actuation element 3A is stably connected to the internal valve or membrane with elastic dome 5 by the end of a coupling 3A2. The first actuation element 3A is intended to allow the end user to open or close the liquid outlet hole by pulling on the flaps with the index finger, middle finger, or ring finger (alternatively, compensated by the opposing thumb, which generates pressure on the top cap 2A on a specially prepared central seat), as shown in FIG. 30, so that the tip of the internal valve or membrane with elastic dome 5 with spring can release or close the liquid outlet hole.

[0016] Furthermore, the dome valve receives the thrust necessary to keep the tap fully closed (and therefore in a kind of pre-wound state of a spring) from an internal thrust element 2A.4 in FIG. 28 of the particular first cap 2A, always highlighted in FIG. 28, which is the final part assembled to the first body 4, which in this currently manufactured version is welded to the first body 4 by ultrasonic welding.

[0017] The first cap 2A is preferably stably joined to the first body 4A by ultrasonic welding, although with necessary modifications, the two parts can also be stably restrained by an interlock (not shown) or by more modern high-speed welding methods such as laser welding. In particular, the first cap 2A with the removable tamper-evident band 2A2 of FIG. 17 has the characteristics to enhance any application and / or prevent tampering by the end customer. Furthermore, the tamper-evident band 2A2 prevents vertical displacement of the flap due to possible pulling forces applied by fingers, as more clearly shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, thereby ensuring the sealing of the tap 1A from the producer to the consumer.

[0018] In particular, before performing the first opening of the tap 1A, the user must remove the tamper-evident band 2A2 from the tap 1A itself, as shown in Figure 35. In this way, the tamper-evident band 2A2 is completely detached from the tap 1A of the present invention and becomes, as such, a part to be discarded separately from the rest of the package. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0019] [Patent Document 1] French Patent Application Publication No. 2742207 [Patent Document 2] European Patent Application Publication No. 1627850 [Patent Document 3] International Patent Publication No. 2012176221 [Patent Document 4] European Patent Application Publication No. 0432070 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0020] The object of the present invention is to make a dispensing cap that makes it possible to have a tamper-proof system that can be integrated into current taps, with a guarantee seal and automatic opening that complies with the new European and international directives on articles of single-use plastic (SUP), without disrupting the current production system of the taps themselves, and therefore remains connected to the tap after opening and does not disperse in the environment or allows its correct recycling if accidentally discarded, and that is compatible with connection systems available on the market.

[0021] The object of the present invention is therefore to eliminate the tamper-evident band 2A2 of the part of the first cap 2A of Figure 17 and replace it with an innovative part that makes it possible to achieve the same purpose as the part 2A manufactured today, namely the protection of the product contained in the container (preferably a BIB), providing evidence of tampering to the customer, but making it possible to eliminate the 2A2 band that is currently removed and could potentially be dispersed into the environment if not disposed of properly as proposed.

[0022] In particular, Cap 2 in Figure 2 must be designed to meet the requirements of a new European regulation called "Single-Use Plastics" (SUP), recently adopted by the European Parliament on March 27, as well as the requirements of the US California regulation AB319. Both regulations aim to increase the amount of plastic collected and recycled, thereby reducing marine litter. As a result, fast-moving consumer goods (CPG) companies called on their partners to develop solutions that not only comply with the new regulations but also offer environmentally conscious consumers solutions that fit their lifestyles and provide the best packaging experience.

[0023] With reference to these new needs of the market, the applicant has developed a new cap with an integrated guarantee seal, shown in Figure 33. In the case of the interlocking version of Figure 34, designed to facilitate recycling after use, the band is preferably oriented sideways (although the band can also be positioned forward or backward with modifications to the cap and the drive element, always within the scope of the teachings of the present invention), but is no longer detached from the tap as it is today, so that it remains connected to the tap and, upon closure, can go through the appropriate recycling stream.

[0024] Another object of the present invention is to create a tap that will actually replace the old known tap version 1A, made entirely of plastic material (and therefore easily recyclable) and that will fit into a connector system designed specifically for this tap dispenser on the market today, without disrupting the existing production cycle and therefore without having to invest a lot of money in the "green" changes that have been made. [Means for solving the problem]

[0025] As a result of the following description, the above and other objects and advantages of the present invention are achieved by a dispenser as set out in the independent claims. Preferred embodiments and non-obvious variants of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0026] All appended claims are intended to form an integral part of this specification.

[0027] It will be immediately apparent that numerous variations and modifications can be made to what has been described (e.g., with respect to shape, size, arrangement, and parts with equivalent functions) without departing from the scope of the invention as contained in the appended claims.

[0028] The present invention will be better explained by some preferred embodiments thereof, given as non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a tap according to the present invention in a closed position; FIG. [Figure 2] 1 is a front view of one embodiment of a tap according to the present invention in a closed position. FIG. [Figure 3] 1 is a front view and a detailed cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an assembled tap according to the present invention in a closed position. FIG. [Figure 4]1A and 1B are front cross-sectional and side views of one embodiment of a tap according to the present invention in a closed position. [Figure 5] 1 is a side cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a tap according to the present invention in a closed position. FIG. [Figure 6] 1A and 1B are an exploded front view and an exploded side view of an embodiment of a tap according to the present invention. [Figure 7] 1A and 1B are an exploded front view and an exploded side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a tap according to the present invention. [Figure 8] 1 is an exploded cross-sectional isometric view of a tap according to the present invention; FIG. [Figure 9] 1A and 1B are a front view and a side view of a tap according to the present invention in a first opening position. [Figure 10] 1A and 1B are a front view, a cross-sectional view and a detailed view of a tap according to the present invention in an open position. [Figure 11] 1A and 1B show a front view, a cross-sectional view and a detailed view of a tap according to the present invention in a first open position. [Figure 12] 1A and 1B are front and side views of a tap according to the present invention in a closed position after initial opening; [Figure 13] 1A and 1B are a front cross-sectional view, a side view and a detailed view of a tap according to the present invention in a closed position after initial opening. [Figure 14] 1 is a front cross-sectional view of a tap according to the present invention in a closed position after initial opening. FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a tap according to the prior art. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a front view of a tap according to the prior art. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a tap according to the prior art. [Figure 18] 1 is a cross-sectional front view of a prior art tap in a closed position with a seal having an intact removable band. FIG. [Figure 19] 1 is a side view of a prior art tap in a closed position with a seal having an intact removable band; FIG. [Figure 20]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art tap in a closed position with the seal having the removable band removed and discarded. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 is a front view of a prior art tap in a closed position with the seal having the removable band removed and discarded. [Figure 22] FIG. 1 is a side view of a prior art tap in a closed position with the seal having the removable band removed and discarded. [Figure 23] 1 is a perspective view of a tap according to the prior art in its open position; FIG. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is a front view of a prior art tap in its open position. [Figure 25] 1 is a cross-sectional front view of a tap according to the prior art in its open position; FIG. [Figure 26] FIG. 1 is a side view of a prior art tap in its open position. [Figure 27] 1A-1C are cross-sectional front, side, and top isometric views of currently available drive element components of known solutions. [Figure 28] 1A and 1B are front isometric, cross-sectional and top views of a part cap with a removable tamper-evident band, which is a known solution currently on the market and will no longer be in accordance with the future. [Figure 29] For a known solution currently on the market, but providing welding of two parts (body and cap), the front, side isometric, cross-sectional and top views of the body part will remain unchanged in future versions. [Figure 30] 10A-10C show front, side isometric, cross-sectional, and top views of a future version of the body part fitted with a mechanical hook for the cap (for the version with the mechanical hook). [Figure 31] 1A-1C are front, cross-sectional side, and top isometric views of internal valve components of known solutions currently on the market, but which will remain the same for future solutions. [Figure 32]10A-10C show cross-sectional, front, side, top, isometric and detailed views of a future version of the drive element. [Figure 33] Cross-sectional, front, top, isometric and detailed views of a future version of the drive element with welding. [Figure 34] 10A-10D show cross-sectional, front, top, isometric and detailed views of a future interlocking version of the drive element. [Figure 35] Stylized image of the removal of tamper-evident bands from taps currently on the market, which in future will no longer comply with new European and international directives. [Figure 36] Stylized images of taps currently on the market at the opening step (positioning of fingers on the various parts of the tap) after the tamper-evident band has been removed and discarded. [Figure 37] 1A-1C are front, side cross-sectional, and detailed views of an assembly of the tap of the present invention in a future version with a body part and an interlocking cover. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] With reference to the figures, an exemplary and non-limiting embodiment of a dispensing tap 1, 1A, 1B of the present invention is shown and described. It will be clear to those skilled in the art that the described taps can be made in various shapes, sizes and with equivalent details and can be used for various types of containers, such as those known as "bag-in-box" as well as rigid or semi-rigid types.

[0031] A first embodiment of the tap 1 of the present invention is shown in Figure 1 and uses a first body 4 of Figure 29 which is considered traditional as it allows to reuse such parts of taps currently on the market (thus resulting in considerable cost and time savings), which is then combined with a new innovative cap 2 of Figure 33.

[0032] A second embodiment of the tap 1B of the present invention is shown in Figure 37, which instead uses a second body 4B (shown in detail in Figure 30) paired with the new third cap 2B of Figure 34, by changing only the connection method between the cap 2 and the first body 4 (traditional welding between the two parts as today) and the connection method (interlock) between the third cap 2B and the second body 4B, both of which have a shape useful for obtaining a joint between the two parts useful for delivery.

[0033] Both versions (Tap 1 in FIG. 1 and Tap 1B in FIG. 37) comply with the new European and international directives on disposable plastic articles (SUPs). In both versions, they also use a new drive flap (second drive element) 3, FIG. 32, with a drive opening lug or wedge 3.4, FIG. 32, integrated into each fin (allowing the current drive element to be modified by simply and inexpensively adding the drive lug or wedge 3.4, FIG. 32, for each fin opening). The internal valve or membrane with elastic dome 5, FIG. 31, is the same as that currently used in Tap 1A on the market, shown in FIG. 15. The fact that currently manufactured parts can be reused (or can be reused anyway with minor modifications, as in the case of the drive element with the added wedge) saves time and money and adds further value to the invention, as the new shape is "hidden" and therefore does not change the customer's final perception.

[0034] Referring to the figures, the tap of the present invention is provided in two main configurations (Tap 1 shown in Figures 1-14, and Tap 1B shown in Figure 37), in the first configuration Tap 1 basically comprises: The first body 4 (Fig. 29) is a "conventional" body of the same shape as currently used for taps 1A currently on the market (this offers a significant advantage in terms of the manufacturing costs and time of the entire project, since the parts and equipment can be used to produce the existing tap 1A and to make the tap 1 of the present invention. Such a first body 4 preferably has an elongated end (rear side 4) formed by a cylinder 4.3 arranged perpendicular to the front cylinder 4.2 of Fig. 29, and has the following: (1) the shape required for the purpose of obtaining a connection-liquid sealing element 4.6 on the connection nozzle with the container (not shown) thanks to the interference between the surfaces of the related parts (in this case, between the first body 4 and the connection nozzle with the container (not shown)); 29, and (2) the area (front side 4) where the anti-removal (anti-counterfeit) sharp-edged fitting element 4.5 with the container (not shown, preferably but not limited to a BIB) is made. At the front side of the front side 4 of FIG. 29, there is a cylinder 4.2, inside of which the internal sealing wall 4.4 and internal sealing groove 4.7 of FIG. 29 are obtained, which are connected to the sealing periphery 5.1 and vertical sealing wall 5.3 of the internal valve or membrane 5 with the elastic dome of FIG. 31. A seat 4.8 is also obtained on the front cylinder, which serves as a guide / seat for the driving lug 3.4 of FIG. 32. Such a first body 4 of FIG. 29 is used for conventional connection methods with the cap 2 of FIG. 33, namely ultrasonic welding and laser welding. The second body 4B (best shown in FIG. 30) (which is a body with a shape with a recess and a recess / tooth portion 4B.9 to be coupled with the third cap 2B of FIG. 34, where a fastening shape is obtained at the top, has an elongated end (rear side 4B) formed from a cylinder 4B.3, preferably arranged perpendicular to the front cylinder 4B.2 of FIG. 30, and the shape required to obtain the connection / liquid sealing element 4B.6 is obtained on the connection nozzle, the connection nozzle with the container (not shown), and the anti-removal (anti-counterfeit) sharp fitting element 4B.5 with the container (not shown, preferably but not limited to BIB) The front side has a cylinder 4B.2, inside of which an internal sealing wall 4B.4 and an internal sealing groove 4B.7 are provided, which are connected to the sealing periphery 5.1 and vertical sealing wall 5.3 of the internal valve or membrane 5 with the elastic dome of FIG. 31. The front cylinder also has a seat 4B.8, which serves as a guide and seat for the drive lug 3.4 of FIG. 32. Such a second body 4B also has a cavity-type and tooth-type fastening shape 4B.9, which is used in the version of the tap interlocking dispenser 1B of FIG. 37 and which exactly utilizes the interlocking shapes present in the second body 4B of FIG. 30 and the third cap 2B of FIG. 34. an internal valve or membrane 5 with an elastic dome of FIG. 31 (common to both versions 1 and 1B) (which includes a fastening zone 5.4 inside the part as shown in FIG. 31 and a sealing recess 5.1 and a vertical sealing wall 5.3 which, as will be seen later, are operatively coupled by sealing the fluid with the internal shape of the body 4, 4B. The special dome-shaped shape and the materials used make the particular internal valve or membrane 5 with an elastic dome of FIG. 31 elastic, providing the tap 1, 1B with the particular function of self-closing the valve 5 when the external mechanical force applied by the user to the external flap of the first actuating element 3A2 of FIG. 32 is removed); a drive end 3.2 (FIG. 32) (which has the feature of maintaining all the characteristics of the first element 3A currently used on the taps in production, but with the addition of two drive lugs or wedges 3.4 on the top of the outer flap 3.1 (thus simply modifying the current production tooling to allow the part to be adapted to the new configurations of Tap 1 in FIG. 1 and Tap 1B in FIG. 37) that guide the fin / flap 2.1 obtained on the cap 2 (FIG. 33) and the feature 2B.1 obtained on the third cap 2B (FIG. 34) to open Tap 1 in FIG. 1 and Tap 1B in FIG. 37 (and simultaneously destroy the warranty seal); and, as shown in FIG. 36, fastening features are present on the drive end 3.2 and outer flap 3.1 in FIG. 32 to ensure a finger grip area to allow opening of the taps. There are guide and sliding features 3.5 that mate with features 4.8 and 4B.8 obtained on Taps 1 and 1B, respectively). The cap 2 (best shown in FIG. 33), which in its version used with the first body 4 of FIG. 29, as is done today in the tap 1A currently on the market, is provided with an integrated sealing system that remains fastened to the cap 2 of FIG. 33 and is then stably joined to the first body 4, forming a single inseparable part as required by the new European and international directives on disposable plastic articles (SUP). Referring to FIG. 33, the characteristic of the new cap 2 with tamper-evident lateral fins / flaps 2.1 restrained to the body of the cap 2 can be highlighted by two flexible hinges 2.6 integrated in the cap 2, which have the function of keeping the two tamper-evident fins / flaps 2.1 restrained to the body of the cap 2, thus complying with the new European and international directives on disposable plastic articles (SUP). There may also be a jumper type "thin" connecting element 2.2 that joins the tap 2.1 to the body of the cap 2 in the center of the fastening ring 2.8. These connecting jumpers are broken during the first opening by the thrust of the driving lug or wedge 3.4 of Fig. 32 obtained on the driving element, guaranteeing an immediate visual feedback to the final customer who sees the side flap raised as shown in Fig. 13 and understands that the tap 1, 1B has already been opened, thus avoiding dangerous counterfeiting to the final customer. One can notice the shape of the ramps 2.5 which serve to couple with the drive lugs or wedges 3.4 of FIG. 32 obtained on the drive element 3 and allow the two lateral fins / flaps 2.1 of the seal to perform a rotation (guided by the coupled ramps 2.5), thus serving to convert the attempt to lift the flap 3.1 exerted by the user's fingers on the outer flap 3.1 of the drive element 3 (as shown in FIG. 36) into a torque on the fins / flaps 2.1 of FIG. 33 which has as its centre of rotation the connection of the connecting flap 2.6 of FIG. 33.Next to the hinge 2.6 there is also a lateral relief 2.7 (Fig. 33) which serves to allow the flexible hinge 2.6 to be acquired. There is also a concave seat 2.3 which serves as a seat for the opposing thumb, as shown in Fig. 36. There is a vertical profile 2.4 which serves to keep the internal valve or membrane 5 with the elastic dome in place thanks to the connection between the guide profile 2.9 of the second drive element 3 in Fig. 32 and the upper surface 5.5 of the internal valve or membrane 5 with the elastic dome after the tap 1, 1B is fully assembled. The third cap 2B (best shown in FIG. 34), in its version used with the second body 4B of FIG. 30 for the interlocking system between the second body 4B and the third cap 2B, is provided with an integrated sealing system that remains fixed to the cap, as required by the new European and international directives on disposable plastic articles (SUP). With reference to FIG. 33, it is possible to highlight the properties of the new third cap 2B, which is provided with tamper-resistant side fins / flaps 2B.1 that are restrained to the body of the third cap 2B by two flexible hinges 2B.6 integrated into the cap, which have the function of keeping the tamper-resistant fins / flaps 2B.1 restrained to the body of the third cap 2B, thus complying with the new European and international directives on disposable plastic articles (SUP). There are also jumper-type "thin" connecting elements 2B.2 that join the two lateral fins / flaps 2B.1 to the body of the third cap 2B by means of fixed and stable fastening rings 2B.8. These connecting jumpers 2B.2 is broken during initial opening by the thrust of the drive lug or wedge 3.4 of Figure 32 obtained on the second drive element 3, ensuring immediate visual feedback to the final customer who will see the side flap raised as shown in Figure 13 and understand that the tap 1, 1B has already been opened, thus avoiding dangerous counterfeiting for the final customer.On the inside of the fin / flap 2B.1 of Figure 34 there is an inclined surface 2B.5 which serves to couple with the drive lug or wedge 3.4 of Figure 32 obtained on the second drive element 3 of Figure 32, and (coupled ramp 2B. There is also a profile with two lateral flaps 2.1 of the seal that perform a rotation (guided by the flaps 2.5) and therefore serve to convert the attempt to lift the flap 3.1 exerted by the user's fingers on the outer flap 3.1 of the second actuation element 3 (as shown in Figure 36) into a torque on the fin / flap 2.1B of Figure 34, which has as its center of rotation the connection of the connecting flap 2.6 of Figure 34. Next to the hinge 2B.6 of Figure 34 there is a lateral relief 2B.7 (Figure 34) that serves to make it possible to obtain a flexible hinge 2B.6.As shown in FIG. 36, there is a concave seat 2B.3, FIG. 34, which serves as a seat for the opposing thumb and preferably also as a seat for the material injection point. A guide profile 2B.9, FIG. 34, is present for the second drive element 3, FIG. 32. After complete assembly of the tap 1B, there is a vertical profile 2B.4, FIG. 34, which serves to hold the internal valve or membrane 5 with the elastic dome in place by coupling with the upper surface 5.5 of the internal valve or membrane 5 with the elastic dome. Finally, there are two or more holes 2.10, FIG. 34, at the top of the third cap 2B, FIG. 34, which allow for the acquisition of the internal fixed tooth 2.11, FIG. 34, which is then stably coupled with the coupling profile (profile 4B.9) obtained on the second body 4B, FIG. 30.

[0035] Two preferred embodiments of the invention are described, a "conservative," cheap, and "fast" version that utilizes existing welding technology between two parts (the cap 2 in FIG. 33 and the first body 4 in FIG. 29) and therefore allows for the reuse of parts of currently used solutions, as well as the equipment used to make the parts, and a new version that utilizes a connection between two parts instead (the third cap 2B in FIG. 34 and the second body 4B in FIG. 30), although of course further modifications and variations are possible within the same inventive idea.

[0036] In particular, with reference to FIG. 3, the tap 1 of the present invention is highlighted in its conventional configuration in cross section and detail view in the closed position, with the cap 2 preferably ultrasonically welded onto the first body 4 (although such description is also fully relevant to the tap 1B of the present invention in FIG. 37, with the interlocking technique between the third cap 2B and the second body 4B), and it will be noted that an internal valve or membrane 5 with an elastic dome, preferably made of a flexible material with elastic memory, is inserted into the cylindrical front seat part 4.2 obtained in the front part (front side 4) of the first body 4 of FIG. 29, and interferes with the upper outer surface of the sealing periphery 5.1 of the internal valve or membrane 5 with an elastic dome of FIG. 31, creating a liquid-tight seal (4.2-5.1 in FIG. 3). Meanwhile, the lower vertical sealing wall 5.3 of the internal valve or membrane with the elastic dome 5 of Figure 31, in the closed position, is coupled with the inner surface of the liquid outlet hole of the first body 4 (internal sealing groove 4.7 of Figure 29), creating a lower seal (internal sealing groove 4.7 - vertical sealing wall 5.3 of Figure 3) at the liquid outlet hole.

[0037] Continuing to look at FIG. 3, it can be noticed that the second actuation element 3 of FIG. 32 is inserted above the internal valve or membrane 5 with elastic dome (preferably interlocking and locking the first body 4 and the second actuation element 3 thanks to the shape obtained on the two parts), and the interlocking shape obtained on the actuation end 3.2 of FIG. 32 stably locks the internal valve or membrane 5 with elastic dome, and its coupling (or interlocking) cavity 5.4 of FIG. 31 creates a stable coupling 3.2-5.4 that allows the transmission of an opening force from the second actuation element 3 of FIG. 3 to the internal valve or membrane 5 with elastic dome of FIG. 3, allowing deformation as shown in FIG. 11, releasing the liquid outlet hole 4.1 and allowing the delivery of the liquid contained inside the container (preferably, but not limited to, a BTB).

[0038] Continuing the analysis, as the final component forming the new taps 1 and 1B of the present invention (in their alternative configurations), a cap with a non-removable integral seal, as required by EU and international directives on disposable plastic articles (SUP), is inserted inside the front part of the first body 4 of FIG. 3. It should be noted that the components cap 2 of FIG. 33 and cap 2B of FIG. 34 (together with the second body 4B of FIG. 30) and the second drive element 3 of FIG. 32 represent a true innovation, allowing for a quick and economical adaptation to existing markets, particularly for the versions of the tap 1 from FIG. 1 onwards, requiring only a "rebuilt" component, i.e., the most innovative and popular component (cap 2), while in the case of the second drive element 3 of FIG. 32, a simple modification of existing equipment is sufficient, preferably but not exclusively by adding an opening drive lug or wedge 3.4 of FIG. 32 to obtain a coupling groove 4.9B of FIG. 30 that interlocks with the undercut 2.11 of FIG. 34 made on the cap.

[0039] More specifically, with reference to FIG. 33, one can notice the lateral tamper-evident fin / flap 2.1 of FIG. 33, which is constrained to the body of the cap 2 of FIG. 33 by the fin / flap or jumper 2.1 and flexible hinge 2.6, as opposed to the "traditional" version molded to be welded to the first body 4 of FIG. 29. Preferably, the jumper 2.2 of FIG. 33 has the purpose of keeping the flap of the second actuation element 3 closed when the tap is sealed and does not need to be opened, assuring the end user that the product contained inside the container (preferably, BIB) to which the tap 1, 1B of the present invention is connected has not suffered from counterfeiting and / or initial opening. The second function of the jumper 2.2 is to laterally release the fin / flap 2.1 of the cap 2, which remains constrained only by the center of the two hinges 2.6 of FIG. 33 (one on each side). The driving lug or wedge 3.4 of Figure 32 is broken by the torque type movement applied to the fin / flap 2.1 of Figure 33 by the second driving element 3 of Figure 32 and cooperates with an internal feature 2.5 found on the inside of the flap 2.1 of the cap 2, which has the purpose of converting the translational movement of the second driving element 3 of Figure 32 into a torque-like movement during initial and subsequent opening.

[0040] Preferably, there is an annular, rigid and fixed fastening area 2.8 (Fig. 33) which serves as an external guide and in particular as a base for connecting the jumper 2.2 of the tamper-evident seal, ensuring the necessary rigidity to withstand the stresses of unwanted opening, which are ejected by the flap 3.6, Fig. 32, of the second actuating element 3, Fig. 32, and consequently by the two tamper-evident fins / flaps 2.1 of the cap 2, Fig. 33. The size of the jumper 2.2, Fig. 33, allows for better control of the opening strength guaranteed to the end customer.

[0041] Continuing the explanation, at the top of the cap 2, we can notice a trap 2.3 (Fig. 33) that serves as a seat for the opposing thumb when opening the tap 1, 1B of the present invention as shown in the image of Fig. 36, and also as a hidden location for the injection point of the plastic material. Preferably, two elongated shapes 2.10 are provided inside, which, when the tap 1, 1B of the present invention is assembled, serve as sliding seats for the second drive element 3 (Fig. 32) thanks to the tracks 2.9 (Fig. 33) provided inside them, in which the protrusion 3.3 (Fig. 32) of the second drive element 3 slides, ensuring linear sliding and guidance. The extensions 2.10 also serve to keep the internal valve or membrane 5 with the elastic dome in place, due to the plane 2.4 (Fig. 33) lying on the plane 5.5 (Fig. 31) of the internal valve or membrane 5 with the elastic dome.

[0042] The above description is almost the same for the second version 1B of the tap of the invention. The main difference is that in the cap 2B of Fig. 34, a fastening shape 2B.11 is obtained, which, combined with the seat 4B.9 obtained in the second body 4B of Fig. 30, creates a stable connection comparable to welding between the two parts. The resulting hole, preferably located at the top, serves to obtain the internal toothing 2.11 of Fig. 34 in a simple way (at the level of the mold structure that produces the third cap 2B of Fig. 34).

[0043] Another difference is in the second body 4B, from which the fastening seat 4B.9 in FIG. 30 of the toothing 2B.11 in FIG. 34 is obtained, as mentioned above.

[0044] For the rest, what is explained below is valid for both the inventive tap 1 of FIG. 1 and the tap 1B of FIG.

[0045] 1, 2 and 3, one can see the tap 1 of the invention (for the interlock solution 1B see FIG. 37) in its closed position and with the tamper-evident sealing fin / flap 2.1 closed as a guarantee for the end customer. As can be seen from FIGS. 3 and 4, the driving lug or wedge 3.4 rests on the tamper-evident guide rib 2.5 and is ready at any time to transmit the opening force and convert the upward movement of the second driving element 3 into a torque movement of the lateral fin / flap 2.1 of the cap 2, which can destroy the jumper and thus allow the upward movement of the second driving element 3, which is connected by its shape-locking to the internal valve or membrane 5 with an elastic dome, allowing the tap to be opened and the fluid contained in the container (preferably BIB) to be dispensed.

[0046] 9, 10 and 11 it can be seen what happens during the first opening of the tap 1, 1B of the invention, when the second actuation element 3 has finished its execution, by the action of the fingers and opposable thumb, the tamper-evident fins / flaps 2.1 are in a fully open position, as highlighted in FIG. 36. The main feature of these flaps is that they are obtained in a single piece, and that the hinge-type features 2.6, all in a single piece, ensure that the tamper-evident fins / flaps 2.1 remain restrained to the body of the cap 2, and therefore, even after the jumper 2.2 is destroyed, remain restrained to the surroundings and are not dispersed in the environment, allowing the application to comply with the new European and international directives on single-use plastic articles (SUP).

[0047] Finally, Figures 12, 13 and 14 highlight the situation after the finger stops the traction exerted on the flap 3.6 of the second actuation element 3. The internal valve or membrane 5 with its elastic dome causes the whole system to return to its starting position shown in Figures 12, 13 and 14, but it is emphasized that the tap 1, 1B has been opened for the first time (tamper-proof) thanks to the position of the tamper-proof fin / flap 2.1, which remains in an elevated position and the cap 2 with the destroyed jumper 2.2 remains connected, providing immediate visual evidence to the end customer.

Claims

1. A tamper-proof liquid dispensing tap (1, 1B), A housing body (4, 4B), an internal valve or membrane (5) with an elastic dome housed in said housing body (4, 4B); an actuation element (3) housed in and operatively coupled to said internal valve or membrane (5) with said elastic dome; a cap (2, 2B) comprising an integral sealing element (2.1, 2.2, 2.6, 2.8; 2B.1, 2B.2, 2B.6, 2B.8) and a cap body, the cap (2, 2B) being arranged above the accommodating body (4, 4B) and stably restrained thereto to form an inseparable single part, the cap (2, 2B) being further operably coupled to the driving element (3); Equipped with the actuating element (3) comprises an external flap (3.1) which is designed to be actuated by the lifting of the external flap (3.1) by the user's finger, acting on the internal valve or membrane (5) to open the tap (1); said integral closure element (2.1, 2.2, 2.6, 2.8; 2B.1, 2B.2, 2B.6, 2B.8) comprising tamper-evident lateral fins / flaps (2.1) constrained to said cap body by flexible hinges (2.6); 1. A tamper-evident liquid dispensing tap (1, 1B) characterized in that the actuating element (3) is designed to break the integral closure elements (2.1, 2.2, 2.6, 2.8; 2B.1, 2B.2, 2B.6, 2B.8) simultaneously upon opening, so that the broken integral closure elements (2.1, 2.2, 2.6, 2.8; 2B.1, 2B.2, 2B.6, 2B.8) remain fastened to the cap (2, 2B) and pivot about the flexible hinge (2.6) to raise the tamper-evident lateral fins / flaps (2.1) and indicate that the tap (1) has been opened.

2. The housing body (4) is a front cylinder (4 front, 4.2) containing an internal valve or membrane (5) with said elastic dome; a rear end (4) formed by a cylinder (4.3) equipped with means designed to connect a nozzle to a container for liquid; Equipped with said elongated end (4 rear) is arranged perpendicular to the front cylinder (4 front, 4.2); The front cylinder (4, front side, 4.2) has an internal sealing wall (4.4) on its inner side and an internal sealing groove (4.7) forming a liquid outlet hole, the internal sealing wall (4.4) and the internal sealing groove (4.7) being designed to couple with the sealing periphery (5.1) and the vertical sealing wall (5.3) of the internal valve or membrane (5) with the elastic dome, respectively; the front cylinder (4.2) further comprises a seat (4.8) designed to act as a guide and seat for a drive lug (3.4) provided on top of the outer flap (3.1) of the drive element (3); The means at the rear end of the elongated end (4) a connecting and liquid-tight element (4.6) for the connecting nozzle; an anti-removal and anti-counterfeiting element with sharp edges (4.5) for fitting to the container; The tap (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises:

3. two said tamper-evident lateral fins / flaps (2.1) are constrained to said cap body by two integrated flexible hinges (2.6), said two integrated flexible hinges (2.6) maintaining said two tamper-evident lateral fins / flaps (2.1) constrained to said cap body; The cap (2) a jumper-type "thin" connecting element (2.2) designed to restrain the two tamper-evident lateral fins / flaps (2.1) to the cap body by means of a fastening ring (2.8), the connecting element (2.2) being designed to be broken upon initial opening by the thrust of the driving lug or wedge (3.4) on the top of the outer flap (3.1) of the driving element (3); a ramp element (2.5) accommodated inside the tamper-evident lateral fin / flap (2.1) and coupled with the drive lug or wedge (3.4) of the drive element (3), designed so that the two tamper-evident lateral fins / flaps (2.1) can perform a rotation guided by the coupled ramp (2.5) and convert an attempt to lift the outer flap (3.1) of the drive element (3) by a user's fingers into a torque on the tamper-evident lateral fin / flap (2.1) having a rotation center at the connection of the flexible hinge (2.6); a lateral relief (2.7) arranged next to said flexible hinge (2.6) and designed to provide the flexible hinge (2.6); a concave seat (2.3) located in the center of the upper surface of the cap, serving as a seat for the opposing thumb; a guide profile (2.9) of the drive element (3) extending into the interior of the housing body (4); a vertical profile (2.4) designed to maintain the position of the internal valve or membrane (5) with the elastic dome by engaging with the upper surface (5.5) of the internal valve or membrane (5) with the elastic dome after the tap (1) has been fully assembled; The tap (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that it comprises:

4. the receiving body (4B) comprises a front cylinder (4B.2) shaped with recesses / teeth (4B.9) for connection with the cap (2B), the front cylinder (4B.2) accommodating an internal sealing wall (4B.4) and an internal sealing groove (4B.7) designed to connect with the sealing periphery (5.1) and vertical sealing wall (5.3) of the internal valve or membrane (5) with the elastic dome, the front cylinder (4B.2) further comprising a guiding and receiving seat (4B.8) for a driving lug (3.4) provided on the upper part of the external flap (3.1) of the driving element (3); 2. The tap (1B) according to claim 1, characterized in that the accommodating body (4B) further comprises an elongated end (4B rear) formed from a cylinder (4B.3) arranged perpendicular to the front cylinder (4B.2), the elongated end (4B rear) being designed to obtain a connection and liquid sealing element (4B.6) on a connecting nozzle with a liquid container and an anti-removal and anti-counterfeiting fitting element (4B.5) with sharp edges.

5. The cap (2B) is two tamper-evident lateral fins / flaps (2B.1) constrained to said cap body by two integral flexible hinges (2B.6); a jumper-type "thin" connecting element (2B.2) designed to restrain the two tamper-evident lateral fins / flaps (2B.1) to the cap body by means of a fixed and stable fastening ring (2B.8), the connecting element (2B.2) being designed to be broken during initial opening by the thrust of the driving lug or wedge (3.4) on the top of the outer flap (3.1) of the driving element (3); a ramp-type profile (2B.5) arranged inside the tamper-evident lateral fin / flap (2B.1) and coupled with the drive lug or wedge (3.4) obtained on the drive element (3), the two lateral fins / flaps (2B.1) being designed to perform a rotation guided by the coupled ramp (2B.5) and to convert an attempt to lift the outer flap (3.1) of the drive element (3) by the user's fingers into a torque on the tamper-evident lateral fin / flap (2.1B) having as its center of rotation the connection of the flexible hinge (2.6); a lateral relief (2B.7) arranged next to said hinge (2B.6) and designed to make it possible to obtain a flexible hinge (2B.6); a concave seat (2B.3) located in the center of the upper surface of the cap, serving as a seat for the opposing thumb; a guide profile (2B.9) of the drive element (3) extending into the interior of the housing body (4B); a vertical profile (2B.4) designed to maintain the position of the internal valve or membrane (5) with the elastic dome by engaging with the upper surface (5.5) of the internal valve or membrane (5) with the elastic dome after the tap (1B) has been fully assembled; two or more holes (2.10) in the top of the cap (2B) designed to obtain internal fastening teeth (2.11) that stably engage with the recesses / teeth (4B.9) obtained on the receiving body (4B); The tap (1B) according to claim 4, characterized in that it comprises:

6. The driving element (3A) a drive end (3.2) comprising at least two external flaps (3.1) and a drive lug or wedge (3.4) on top of the external flaps (3.1), designed to guide the tamper-evident lateral fins / flaps (2.1) obtained on the cap (2) or the tamper-evident lateral fins / flaps (2B.1) obtained on the cap (2B), so as to destroy the security seal of the tap (1, 1B) simultaneously with opening; fastening features on the drive end (3.2) and on the outer flap (3.1) designed to ensure a gripping area for the fingers so that the tap can be opened; A tap (1, 1B) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it comprises a guide and sliding profile (3.5) combined with a seat (4.8, 4B.8) obtained on the tap (1, 1B).

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