Durable bottom portion container

Abstract

To provide a durable bottom dispensing package which is easy to dispense from, has sufficient elasticity to return to its original shape after the dispensing, is easy to clean, and has no leakage during use.SOLUTION: The durable bottom dispensing package is realized by producing a container of the package from an elastomer, and providing an interior surface of the container with at least one circumferentially oriented groove 80.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a durable bottom portion dispenser. [Background technology]

[0002] Liquid consumer products are packaged in a wide variety of containers. An increasing number of products, such as food, personal care products, and cleaning products, are provided in inverted containers because they reduce product retention within the container and allow for easier dispensing. In addition, there is a growing demand for consumer products to reduce their environmental impact. However, a large portion of the environmental impact is caused by packaging, and even when the packaging is recyclable or made from recycled materials, the impact is significant. Therefore, there is a desire to transition from disposable plastic products to more durable containers that can be reused repeatedly.

[0003] For bottom-dispensing packages, the container must be sufficiently flexible to allow the composition contained therein to be easily dispensed. However, if the container is too flexible, it will not return to its original shape after dispensing. Therefore, the container must be sufficiently rigid to allow the container to return to its original shape, which typically means having sufficient elastic springback to generate enough pressure to push air back through the bottom-dispensing orifice. An additional benefit of quick shape rebound is that the liquid contained therein is more quickly absorbed, reducing leakage and stringing. Furthermore, for durable bottom-dispensing containers, the container must be sufficiently durable to withstand repeated use without stress cracking. Typical polyethylene terepthalate (PET) and polyolefin containers are prone to cracking after repeated use and are therefore not particularly suitable for use as durable containers.

[0004] Thus, materials such as elastomers can be used. To provide sufficient elasticity, a high wall thickness is generally required. However, thick walls can make it difficult to administer the composition contained therein, especially in small amounts.

[0005] A further challenge is that the durable packaging exterior must be easy to clean.

[0006] Therefore, there remains a need for a durable bottom dispensing container that is easy to dispense, has sufficient resilience to return to its original shape after dispensing, is easy to clean, and has reduced or no leakage during use.

[0007] European Patent Application No. 3686118(A1) relates to a bottom dispensing package with a base having an orifice with a slit valve, which reduces the tendency to leak even when lower viscosity products are contained within the container. This is achieved by providing a container with a more resilient, resiliently squeezable container. U.S. Patent No. 5,213,236 relates to a dispensing package for fluid products such as liquid soap, shampoo and conditioner, household cleaner, cleaning agent, polish, moisturizing cream, etc., which includes a container with a self-sealing dispensing valve mounted therein. The valve includes a terminal flange, a valve head having a discharge orifice therein, and a connector sleeve having one end connected to the valve flange and an opposite end connected to the valve head adjacent the terminal edge. The connector sleeve has a resiliently flexible structure, so that when pressure within the container rises above a predetermined amount, the valve head shifts outward, causing the connector sleeve to fold and rollably extend. German Patent No. 10122557 (A1) relates to a device on a perforation hole that prevents product dripping after manual wall pressure is released. The device comprises a slit segment in one plane and multiple slit segments in a second plane, each plane segment being positioned such that the bottom edge of the first segment contacts the top edge of the second segment in each case. Two or four segments are preferred, and the container closure is by screw or snap action. The container lid and closure are hinged together, with a preferred segment thickness of 0.25 mm and a device diameter of 10 to 20 mm. Chinese Utility Model No. 2784322(Y) relates to an inverted bottle, which includes a bottle body, a bottle cap, and an outer packing cap, the opening of the bottle body is opened downward, the bottle cap is fixedly connected to the lower end of the bottle body through a screw and has a liquid outlet, and a silica gel inner cap and an inner partition plate are fixed in order at a position between the opening of the bottle cap and the opening of the bottle body.This utility model has a downward opening on the bottle body and uses a silica gel inner cap and a partition plate, so that the liquid inside the inverted liquid bottle cannot spill out. This utility model has the advantages of simple structure, convenient use, hygienic and clean opening, natural, convenient and clean liquid injection application for a bottle that is barely filled with liquid, and special application for filling liquids of various viscosities such as liquid shampoo, cleanser essence, etc. Chinese Patent No. 1507827(A) relates to a wall-mounted liquid soap dispenser for a bathroom. The dispenser uses a bottle with a specific elasticity, which can be used in an inverted state, and its liquid outlet is smaller than the mouth of a typical bottle. A platform surface is formed at the bottle mouth, and an elastic thin sheet is disposed on the platform surface. The elastic thin sheet has multiple openings and a closing seam. The bottle cap has a threaded inner wall and a circular hole in its center, and can be tightly screwed onto the bottle body and used to firmly pressurize the opening and closing seam. This invention has a simple structure and low cost, and also provides an application method. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008 / 029548 (A1) relates to a dispensing package for a fabric treatment composition, such as a bottom dispensing package for a flowable composition. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 244222 (A1) relates to a dispensing system, which includes a bottle, a valve cap, and a dosage cap. The bottle includes a sidewall having at least a flexible portion, and the valve cap controls the dispensing of the flowable product from the bottle into the dosage cap. European Patent Application No. 3321199(A) relates to a liquid seasoning container including a bottle and a cap, for containing a seasoning having a viscosity of 5 Pa·s to 500 Pa·s, wherein the bottle includes a mouth, a body, and a bottom, the body having a flat shape in horizontal cross section in a selected state, the bottle being made primarily from low-density polyethylene, the bottle being flexibly deformed to easily discharge the contents even when the contents are a high-viscosity liquid seasoning, and the original aesthetic appearance of the container is unlikely to be damaged even when the contents are reduced.European Patent Application No. 3492400(A) relates to a liquid dispenser for dispensing liquid from an inverted container. The dispenser comprises a body, a valve, and an anti-shock system specifically adapted to absorb temporary liquid pressure increases (e.g., fluid hammer pressure) to significantly reduce / prevent undesired valve opening and liquid leakage. European Patent Application No. 3784578(A) relates to a reinforcing rib structure arranged circumferentially around a container body portion of a container, the reinforcing rib structure comprising a pair of external ribs arranged around the bottle body, each external rib having a given pattern around the container body, the pattern being a series of at least two arcuate segments with an apex interposed between the two arcuate segments. The pair of external ribs includes an upper external rib and a lower external rib, the apexes of which are opposite each other and shifted by a maximum distance of 5 mm, the upper external rib having a maximum amplitude of 3 to 6.5 mm and an arc portion length of half the circumference of the container, and the lower external rib having a maximum amplitude of 2 to 5 mm and an arc portion length of half the circumference of the container. U.S. Patent No. 3,241,727A relates to a liquid dispenser that automatically vents the interior of a container to the atmosphere in response to distortion of a flexible wall to limit the pressure difference between air trapped within the container and the atmosphere. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] European Patent Application No. 3686118(A1) [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 5,213,236 [Patent Document 3] German Patent No. 10122557(A1) [Patent Document 4] China Utility Model No. 2784322(Y) [Patent Document 5] Chinese Patent No. 1507827(A) [Patent Document 6] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008 / 029548(A1) [Patent Document 7] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 244222(A1) [Patent Document 8] European Patent Application No. 3321199(A) [Patent Document 9] European Patent Application No. 3492400(A) [Patent Document 10] European Patent Application No. 3784578(A) [Patent Document 11] U.S. Patent No. 3,241,727(A) Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The present invention relates to a bottom dispensing package (1) for a liquid composition, comprising: an elastically squeezable container (10) for containing the liquid composition, the elastically squeezable container (10) comprising a container wall (11), the container wall (11) being at least partially made of an elastomer, the container wall (11) of the elastically squeezable container (10) comprising an inner surface (15) and an outer surface (14), the inner surface (15) comprising at least one circumferentially oriented groove (80), the height of the at least one circumferentially oriented groove (80) being between 0.1 mm and 6.0 mm, the height being measured as the distance between a groove bottom (83) and a groove top (82), measured perpendicular to the outer surface (14) of the container wall (11); and a base (20) operably connected to the container (10), the base comprising an orifice (30). [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a front view of a durable, bottom-dispensing package (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The package (1) comprises a resiliently squeezable container (10) and a base (20). The resiliently squeezable container (10) comprises at least one container wall (11). The resiliently squeezable container (10) comprises a wide portion (3) and a narrow portion (2). The base (20) comprises a base wall rim (22) adapted to allow the package (1) to rest in an inverted position on a flat surface. The top of the container (10) comprises a one-way vent (70). [Figure 2]

[0023] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the present invention. The package (1) comprises a resiliently squeezable container (10) and a base (20). The resiliently squeezable container (10) comprises at least one container wall (11). The resiliently squeezable container (10) comprises a widened portion (3). The interior surface (15) of the container wall (11) comprises a zone (4) having grooves (80). The exterior wall (14) of the container wall (11) is smooth. The container (10) comprises an orifice (30) including a slit valve (40). The base (20) of the package (1) comprises a base wall (23) connected to the periphery of the bottom surface (21) and extending from the periphery of the bottom surface (21) to a base wall rim (22), such that the bottom portion of the package (1) can rest on the base wall rim (22). The base wall (23) includes an aperture (26) connecting the outer base wall surface (24) to the inner base wall surface (25). [Figure 3]

[0023] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the present invention. The package (1) comprises a resiliently squeezable container (10) and a base (20). The resiliently squeezable container (10) comprises at least one container wall (11). The container wall (11) has both a wide portion (2) and a narrow portion (3), with the narrow portion (3) overlying the wide portion (2). The interior surface (15) of the container wall (11) comprises a zone (4) having grooves (80). The exterior wall (14) of the container wall (11) is smooth. The top of the container (10) comprises a one-way vent (70). The base (20) of the package (1) comprises a base wall (23) connected to the periphery of the bottom surface (21) and extending from the periphery of the bottom surface (21) to a base wall rim (22), allowing the bottom-dispensing package (1) to rest on the base wall rim (22). The base (20) includes an anti-shock system (50) disposed upstream of the orifice (30). The anti-shock system (50) includes a housing (51) extending longitudinally and radially inward from the base (20) and having a cavity (52) therein, the housing (51) including at least one inlet opening (53a) providing a fluid passageway for liquid from the resiliently squeezable container (10) into the housing (51) and at least one outlet opening (53b) providing a fluid passageway for liquid from the housing (51) to the outside atmosphere when the orifice (30) is opened. The cavity (52) is partially occupied by a compressible material (54). [Figure 4]

[0023] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the present invention. The package (1) comprises a resiliently squeezable container (10) and a base (20). The resiliently squeezable container (10) comprises at least one container wall (11). The container wall (11) has both a wide portion (2) and a narrow portion (3), with the narrow portion (3) above the wide portion (2). The interior surface (15) of the container wall (11) comprises a zone (4) having grooves (80). The exterior wall (14) of the container wall (11) is smooth. The top of the container (10) comprises a cap (90) including a one-way vent (70). The base (20) of the package (1) includes a base wall (23) connected to the periphery of the bottom surface (21) and extending from the periphery of the bottom surface (21) to a base wall rim (22) such that the bottom dispensing package (1) can rest on the base wall rim (22). The base (20) includes an anti-shock system (50) disposed upstream of the orifice (30). The anti-shock system (50) includes a housing (51) having an internal cavity (52) and extending longitudinally and radially inward from the base (20), the housing (51) including at least one inlet opening (53a) providing a fluid flow path from the resiliently squeezable container (10) into the housing (51) and at least one outlet opening (53b) providing a fluid escape path from the housing (51) to the outside atmosphere when the orifice (30) is opened. The cavity (52) is partially occupied by a compressible material (54). The base wall (23) includes four channels (27) that are equidistantly spaced apart and connect the outer base wall surface (24) to the inner base wall surface (25). [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the container wall (11) of the embodiment of FIG. 4, showing the grooves (80), groove tops (82) and groove bottoms (83), and the exterior surface (14). FIG. 5 also shows the pitch (81) between adjacent grooves. [Figure 6]6 is a cross-sectional view of a durable liquid dispensing package. The package may have the same properties and features as those detailed herein in connection with any or all of the previous figures, unless expressly excluded or clearly incompatible. Similarly, any or all of the features described with respect to FIG. 6 may be implemented in the examples described in the previous figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] It has been found that forming a durable container as described herein and having circumferentially oriented grooves on the interior surface results in an improved rebound of the container after squeezing, while being more flexible, and also more durable and easier to clean.

[0012] By elastically squeezable, it is meant that the container wall (11) exhibits a sufficient degree of flexibility to allow it to deform in response to manual force applied to the exterior surface of the container wall (11), and a sufficient degree of elasticity to automatically return to its undeformed state when the manual force is removed from the exterior surface of the container wall (11).

[0013] As used herein, the terms "a" and "an" when describing a particular element mean "at least one" of that particular element.

[0014] The term "dose" as used herein is defined as the measured amount of liquid delivered by the package. A dose begins when liquid first exits the cap orifice (30) and ends when the flow of liquid stops.

[0015] As used herein, "substantially independent of pressure" means that the pressure causes less than a 10% variation from the target measured dose.

[0016] As used herein, "substantially constant fluid output or dose" means less than a 10% variation from the target measured dose.

[0017] "Shear thinning" as used herein means that the referenced liquid is a non-Newtonian fluid, preferably having a viscosity that changes with changes in shear rate.

[0018] As used herein, "drip-free" means that no visible residue remains proximal to the nozzle of the cap after administration and / or no liquid exits the elastomeric container without squeezing.

[0019] A preferred field of use is that of dosing devices for home or household applications, typically containing detergents such as hard surface cleaning compositions, liquid laundry detergent compositions, or other cleaning preparations, fabric conditioners, etc., which typically have relatively low low-shear viscosities. A particularly preferred field of use is hard surface cleaning, particularly manual dishwashing. For such applications, the resiliently squeezable container (10) can have a dispensed volume of 0.1 to 5 liters, preferably 0.2 to 1.5 liters, and more preferably 0.25 to 0.75 liters, as measured using the method described herein. The volume of liquid dispensed per squeeze of package (1) is typically 1 mL to 50 mL, preferably 2 mL to 30 mL, and more preferably 3 mL to 20 mL.

[0020] Bottom part distribution package: The present invention relates to a package (1) for repeatedly dispensing a quantity of a liquid. The package (1) comprises a resiliently squeezable container (10) and a base (20) operatively connected to the container (10). The base comprises an orifice (30).

[0021] The bottom-dispensing package (1) offers several advantages over other packaging types. The package (1) does not need to be inverted, requires less user movement for dispensing than packages that dispense from an orifice at the top of the package, and offers better positioning and dispensing control. In addition, there is no need to wait for the liquid contained therein to reach the orifice before dispensing, especially when a small amount of composition remains in the package. Thus, the bottom-dispensing package simplifies tasks such as dishwashing, where repeated doses of detergent composition are required.

[0022] The bottom dispensing package (1) can be used as a dosing device for home or domestic use containing detergents such as hard surface cleaning compositions, liquid laundry detergent compositions, or other cleaning preparations, fabric conditioners, etc. Other areas of use include dosing devices for manual and automatic dishwashing detergents, oral care applications such as hair care products and mouthwashes, beverages (syrups, liquor shots, liquid coffee concentrates, etc.), food applications (food pastes and liquid food ingredients, etc.), insecticides, etc. Preferably, the bottom dispensing container (1) comprises a hard surface cleaning composition, more preferably a manual dishwashing composition.

[0023] The bottom dispensing package (1) can have an internal volume for the liquid contained therein of 0.1 liters to 5.0 liters, preferably 0.2 liters to 1.5 liters, more preferably 0.25 liters to 0.75 liters.

[0024] Elastically squeezable container: The resiliently squeezable container (10) is preferably a bottle. The resiliently squeezable container (10) comprises at least one container wall (11).

[0025] The top of the container 10 distal to the base 20 can be closed. Alternatively, the container can preferably include a cap 90, which is preferably removable. Preferably, the cap 90 is included on the top of the container distal to the base 20. The cap 90 provides for easy refilling of the container 10 without the need to remove the base 20. The cap 90 can be a screw-on cap, a push-on cap, or any other form of cap that sealingly engages with the container 10. Because the container wall 11 is at least partially made of an elastomer, the container wall 11 has high flexibility. Therefore, if desired, the cap 90 can include a mounting ring fixedly attached to the container wall 11, for example, by gluing or welding. Alternatively, the container wall 11 can be molded onto the cap 90, or vice versa. The cap 90 may be permanently attached to the housing, for example via a string or plastic cord, or may be completely removable. The cap 90, and its attachment ring, if present, are preferably rigid.

[0026] Conventionally, containers for bottom dispensing applications have been designed to be as rigid as possible in order to maintain their shape after use. If prior art containers are too elastic, they either do not easily return to their original shape after being squeezed during use, or they return to their original shape slowly. In the latter case, the user must wait an unacceptable amount of time before being able to administer an additional amount of the composition.

[0027] The package (1) of the present invention is expected to be durable so that it can be repeatedly refilled and reused. In contrast, materials such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene, and polypropylene are prone to strain hardening and cracking after repeated use, especially when at a thickness that provides the desired spring back after use.

[0028] Therefore, the container wall (11) used in the present invention is at least partially made of an elastomer, preferably an elastomer selected from the group consisting of a thermoplastic elastomer, a silicone rubber, a rubber, or a combination thereof, with a thermoplastic elastomer and / or a silicone rubber being preferred, and a thermoplastic elastomer being particularly preferred. The container wall (11) is preferably made entirely of an elastomer, except for any components necessary to connect an optional cap (90) and / or base (20).

[0029] Elastomers are viscoelastic polymers that generally have a low Young's modulus and a high yield strain compared to other materials. Elastomers are amorphous polymers that exist above their glass transition temperature, allowing for considerable segmental movement. They are therefore relatively soft and deformable at ambient temperatures, e.g., 21°C.

[0030] Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) are copolymers or physical mixtures of polymers, such as plastics and rubbers, including materials with both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties. Thermoplastic elastomers are relatively easy to manufacture, for example, by injection molding. Thermoplastic elastomers exhibit advantages typical of both rubbery and plastic materials. The primary difference between thermoset and thermoplastic elastomers is the type of crosslinking in their structure. The crosslinks in thermoset polymers are covalent bonds, such as those formed during the vulcanization process. In contrast, the crosslinks in thermoplastic elastomer polymers are physical and reversible, typically involving entanglements, weaker dipole or hydrogen bonds, or material phase differences such as crystalline regions. For example, one of the constituent polymers, or a segment of the constituent polymers, has a melting point or glass transition temperature significantly above room temperature. Examples of suitable thermoplastic elastomers, their methods of manufacture and processing can be found in "Handbook of Thermoplastic Elastomers", December 2007, Drobny, ISBN 9780815515494.

[0031] Thermoplastic elastomers include reactor-made thermoplastic elastomers such as styrene block copolymers (SBCs), thermoplastic polyether block amides (TPAs), thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPUs), and thermoplastic copolyester elastomers (TCAs). Reactor-made thermoplastic elastomers are implemented as a single polymer formed through a reaction process, resulting in polymer segments that provide thermoplastic properties and polymer segments that provide elastomeric properties. Other thermoplastic elastomers include blends of polymers, such as homopolymers and / or copolymers, which produce crystalline domains in which blocks from the polymer cocrystallize with blocks in adjacent chains, such as in copolyester rubbers. Depending on the length of the blocks, the domains are generally more stable than the latter due to their higher crystalline melting points. The crystalline melting point determines the processing temperature required to mold the material and the final service temperature of the resulting thermoplastic elastomer. Such materials include Hytrel® (a polyester-polyether copolymer) and Pebax® (a nylon or polyamide-polyether copolymer). Reactor-made thermoplastic elastomers, especially thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPUs), are preferred.

[0032] Thermoplastic elastomers, often referred to as "thermoplastic olefins," are typically derived from polyolefins and are also preferred for their improved recyclability. Thermoplastic elastomers may contain additional components such as plasticizers, fillers, compatibilizers, etc.

[0033] Silicone rubber is an elastomer made from silicone. It is often a one- or two-component polymer and can contain fillers to improve properties or reduce cost. Silicone rubber is generally non-reactive, stable, and resistant to environmental extremes and a wide range of temperatures while still maintaining its properties. Due to these properties and ease of manufacturing and molding, silicone rubber can be found in a wide variety of products, including voltage line insulation, automotive applications, cooking, baking, and food preservation products, clothing such as underwear, sportswear, and footwear, electronics, medical devices and implants, and home repair and hardware in products such as silicone sealants. Silicones are typically highly adhesive gels or liquids that are converted to silicone rubber by curing, such as vulcanization (condensation curing), catalytic curing, or peroxide curing. This is usually done in a two-step process, first at the point of fabrication into the desired shape, followed by a lengthy post-cure process. The curing process can be accelerated by applying heat or pressure.

[0034] Suitable rubbers can be either natural or synthetic. Naturally derived rubbers include suitable polymers derived from natural sources, most often isoprene with small impurities of other organic compounds. Natural rubber is typically harvested in the form of latex. The latex is then refined to produce rubber ready for commercial processing. Synthetically derived rubbers are man-made elastomers derived from petroleum by-products and crosslinked by vulcanization. Rubbers can be used alone or in combination with other materials.

[0035] The elastomer may have a Shore A (Type A) hardness of 0 to 80, preferably 5 to 60, and more preferably 10 to 40. Shore A hardness may be measured using the method described in ISO 868:2003 (last reviewed and validated in 2018). The elastomer may have a tensile elongation (at break) of 200% to 1000%, preferably 250% to 750%, and more preferably 300% to 700%, measured in the machine direction at 23°C and an extension rate of 200 mm / min using the method described in ISO 37:2017 (last reviewed and validated in 2022). Elongation at break is a characteristic value that represents the maximum elongation experienced by a tensile test specimen at the moment of break. It therefore represents the deformability of a material under tensile load. The elastomer may have a compression set of less than 50%, preferably less than 35%, and more preferably less than 20%, measured over a 72-hour period at 23°C using the method described in ISO 815-1:2019. Compression set measures the ability of an elastomer to resist hardening and retain its elastic properties at ambient temperature after prolonged compression. As such, compression set provides an indication of the elastomer's ability to resist physical or chemical changes that prevent it from returning to its original dimensions or from excessively losing its elasticity after release of a deforming force.

[0036] The container wall (11) can have a widened portion (3) so that at least a portion of the exterior surface of the container (10) has a convex shape. The widened portion (2) is preferably located on the container wall (11) where the container (10) is typically gripped and squeezed. For good gripping and dispensing, the widened portion (2) preferably has a radius of 25 mm to 120 mm, preferably 40 mm to 100 mm, and more preferably 50 mm to 80 mm. If the cross section of the widened portion (2) of the container wall (11) is non-circular, such as elliptical, the radius is calculated based on a circular cross section having the same cross-sectional area. The radius of the widened portion (2) is calculated where the cross-sectional area is greatest.

[0037] The container wall (11) may have a narrow portion (3) such that at least a portion of the exterior surface of the container wall (11) has a narrower concave shape than adjacent portions of the container (10).

[0038] The narrow portion (3) is preferably located adjacent to the wide portion (2) of the container wall (11), particularly adjacent to where the container wall (11) is typically gripped and squeezed. The narrow portion (3) preferably has a radius of 10 mm to 80 mm, preferably 20 mm to 70 mm, more preferably 30 mm to 60 mm. If the cross section of the narrow portion (3) of the container wall (11) is non-circular, such as elliptical, the radius is calculated based on a circular cross section having the same cross-sectional area. The radius of the narrow portion (3) is calculated where the cross-sectional area is smallest.

[0039] At least one groove (80) is preferably located at least partially in the wide portion (2) of the container wall (11).

[0040] The container wall (11) preferably has both a wide portion (2) and a narrow portion (3), and more preferably the narrow portion (3) is above the wide portion (2). Such a container (10) provides improved springback to its original shape when the squeezing pressure is removed.

[0041] The wide portion (2), preferably both the wide portion (2) and the narrow portion (3), have either a circular or elliptical cross section, with a circular cross section being preferred. Such a cross section has been found to provide improved springback of the container wall (11) to its original shape after the squeezing pressure is removed. This is in contrast to more rigid bottom-splitting containers, such as those made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene, polypropylene, etc., where essentially flat front and preferably rear panels are also more desirable.

[0042] The container (10) can have a height of 75 mm to 300 mm, preferably 100 mL to 270 mL, more preferably 150 mm to 225 mm, where the height of the container is measured from the inner surface of the orifice (30) in the bottom dispensing package (1) to the top of the container (10) or the top of the cap (90), if present.

[0043] The container wall (11) can have a thickness of 0.25 mm to 8.0 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 6.0 mm, and more preferably 1.0 to 4.0 mm. If a groove (80) is present, the wall thickness is measured as the distance between the outer surface (14) and the groove apex (82), measured perpendicular to the outer surface (14) of the container wall (11).

[0044] The resiliently squeezable container (10) can be made using any suitable molding process, such as injection molding, rotational molding, or compression molding.

[0045] Injection molding is a process in which a molten plastic material is injected into a mold and then cooled and solidified to produce a molded part. This method is suitable for mass production of products with complex shapes. In injection molding, the elastomer is first melted so that it can be inserted into an injection unit, which can be a plunger, extruder, etc. The injection unit is typically heated above the melting temperature of the elastomer. The molten elastomer is then injected into a mold. Once injected, the elastomer can be vulcanized or cooled to form the shape of the mold and produce an elastomeric molded part. For thermoplastic elastomers, cooling is typically sufficient.

[0046] In transfer molding, the elastomer is heated, but the mold is not. The liquid elastomer remains in a molten state until the molding process begins. A syringe, such as a plunger, forces the elastomer into a closed mold, where it forms a shape after cooling or vulcanizing. Once cooled, the mold can be opened to release the container.

[0047] Compression molding is a molding method in which a preheated molding material is first placed into an open, heated mold cavity. The mold is then closed with an upper or plug member, and pressure is applied to bring the material into contact with all mold surfaces while maintaining the heat and pressure until the molding material cures. When the process uses thermosetting resins, for example, in the form of granules, putty-like mass, or preforms at a partially cured stage, the process is essentially a vulcanization process. Fibers can be added to the molding material to improve strength or elasticity. Advanced composite thermoplastic resins can also be compression molded with unidirectional tape, woven fabric, randomly oriented fiber mats, or chopped strands. Elastomers can be loaded into the mold in either pellet or sheet form, or the mold can be loaded from a plasticizing extruder. The materials are heated above their melting point, molded, and cooled. The more evenly the feed material is distributed over the mold surfaces, the less directional flow occurs during the compression stage. Compression molding can also be used to produce a sandwich structure that incorporates a core material, such as honeycomb or polymer foam, into the resiliently squeezable container (10).

[0048] At least one groove: The interior surface (15) of the resiliently squeezable container (10) includes at least one circumferentially oriented groove (80). Providing at least one circumferentially oriented groove (80) on the interior surface results in greater flexibility and springback of the container, while ensuring that the exterior surface (14) can remain smooth or textured as desired, for example, with the addition of a logo or trademark. Additionally, the exterior surface (14) of the container (10) remains easy to clean. The at least one groove (80) is preferably oriented essentially horizontally. Thus, the groove (80) can have a spiral configuration or can be one or more horizontal grooves (80). Multiple horizontal grooves (80) are preferred.

[0049] The presence of such grooves has been found to improve the re-expansion of the elastically squeezable container 10 back to its original shape, even when the container is made from a flexible material such as an elastomer, particularly when the at least one groove 80 is positioned where the container 10 has a widened portion 2 such that at least a portion of the exterior surface of the container 10 has a convex shape, particularly when the widened portion 2 is located on the container 10 where the container 10 would typically be grasped and squeezed.

[0050] The at least one circumferentially oriented groove (80) may extend over at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 95%, and most preferably 100% of the circumferential length of the interior surface (15) of the container wall (11) in which the at least one circumferentially oriented groove (80) is located.

[0051] The interior surface (15) of the vessel wall (11) preferably comprises a plurality of circumferentially oriented grooves (80). The circumferentially oriented grooves (80) may be present over a groove zone (4) extending over at least 25%, preferably at least 50%, and more preferably at least 75% of the height of the vessel wall (11).

[0052] When circumferentially oriented grooves (80) are present, the grooves (80) may be spaced apart such that the pitch (81) is less than 1 mm to 15 mm, preferably 2 mm to 12 mm, and more preferably 2.5 mm to 10 mm, where the pitch (81) is defined as the distance between two adjacent peaks of the circumferentially oriented grooves (80) on the interior surface (15) of the elastically squeezable container.

[0053] The pitch (81) may be constant, but more preferably varies across the interior surface (15) of the container wall (11). The pitch (81) may increase and then decrease again as the grooves (80) progress up the interior surface (15) of the container wall (11), so that the pitch (81) is widest where the container wall (11) is typically gripped and squeezed. Such a distribution of pitch (81) increases the flexibility of the container wall (11) where the container (10) is gripped and squeezed, and increases the stiffness of the container wall (11) further away from this location, thus improving the springback of the container (10) without increasing its stiffness.

[0054] As previously mentioned, when the grooves (80) are present, the container wall (11) can have a thickness of 0.25 mm to 8.0 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 6.0 mm, and more preferably 1.0 to 4.0 mm, measured as the distance between the outer surface (14) of the container wall (11) and the groove apex (82), measured perpendicular to the outer surface (14).

[0055] The distance between the groove bottom (83) and the outer surface (14) of the container wall (11) can be 0.1 mm to 6.0 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 5.0 mm, and most preferably 1.0 mm to 3.0 mm.

[0056] The height of the at least one circumferentially oriented groove (80) is between 0.1 mm and 6.0 mm, preferably between 0.5 mm and 5.0 mm, preferably between 1.0 mm and 3.0 mm, the height being measured as the distance between the groove bottom (83) and the groove top (82), both measured perpendicular to the exterior surface (14) of the container wall (11).

[0057] In the absence of grooves (80), the container wall (11) can have a thickness, measured perpendicular to the exterior surface (14) of the container wall (11), of 0.25 mm to 8.0 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 6.0 mm, and more preferably 1.0 to 4.0 mm. Thus, the container wall (11) without grooves (80) can be thicker or thinner than the wall (11) with grooves (80) present. In a preferred embodiment, the wall (11) without grooves (80) is thicker than the wall (11) with grooves present. In such an embodiment, the flexibility of the container wall (11) is highest where the grooves (80) are present.

[0058] All of the above features result in both easy squeezing and improved springback after the squeezing pressure is removed.

[0059] The outer surface 14 of the container wall 11 may include additional grooves or ribs. However, the outer surface is preferably essentially free of such additional grooves or ribs, except for such additional grooves and ribs that form part of markings such as trademarks, ingredients, etc. If such additional grooves or ribs are present on the outer surface 14 of the container wall 11, the thickness of the container wall 11 and the distance between the groove bottom 83 and the outer surface 14 of the container wall 11 are measured assuming that such additional grooves, ribs, and other markings are not present on the outer surface 14 of the container wall 11, i.e., assuming that the outer surface 14 is smooth.

[0060] One-way ventilation: The resiliently squeezable container 10 may include a one-way vent 70. The one-way vent 70 allows air to enter the container 10 while preventing the escape of air or other contents from the container 10. The one-way vent 70 is preferably located at the top of the container 10 and / or in the container wall 11 above 90% of the package height, with the top of the container 10 being preferred. If the container 10 includes a cap 90, the one-way vent 70 is preferably located within the cap 90, more preferably in the center of the cap 90.

[0061] Caps containing one-way vents are commercially available, such as vented caps sold by Dow Corning and Nalgene. However, such caps are typically designed to vent gas from within the container to the outside, preventing pressure buildup within the container while preventing air from entering the container. In contrast, a suitable cap (90) with one-way vent (70) for use in the present invention should allow air to enter the container through the one-way vent (70) while preventing the contents of the container (10) from escaping through the one-way vent (70).

[0062] For a typical bottom portion dispensing package (1), the springback of the container (10) after the squeezing force for dispensing is removed provides a pressure differential that draws air through the orifice (30), allowing the container (10) to return to its original shape after squeezing the container (10). Thus, in a typical prior art resiliently squeezable container, the container must be sufficiently rigid to be able to provide sufficient springback force to draw air through the orifice (30) and allow the container (10) to return to its original shape. When the resiliently squeezable container (10) is equipped with a one-way vent (70) as described herein, the container (10) can be made more malleable while still being able to return to its original shape after the squeezing force for dispensing is removed.

[0063] Thus, when the container (10) is equipped with a one-way vent (70), the resiliently squeezable container (10) can have a Resilience Index of 0.75% to 1.75%, preferably 0.85% to 1.4%, as measured using the Resilience Index method described herein.

[0064] The desired resiliency of the resiliently squeezable container 10 can be achieved using any suitable means, including through the selection of the material used to form the container 10, through limiting wall thickness by using less resin material to make the container 10, or through the use of grooves 80 and their configurations as described herein.

[0065] As previously mentioned, the one-way vent (70) allows the container (10) to recover to its original shape while not requiring air to be drawn through the orifice (30). Thus, the orifice (30) can be made more resilient to leakage of the composition contained within the package (1). The one-way vent (70) preferably has an opening pressure that is lower than the pressure required to draw air back through the orifice (30) in the base (20).

[0066] The one-way vent (70) can have an opening pressure differential from the outside (45) to the inside (46) of 10 mbar to 250 mbar, preferably 15 mbar to 150 mbar, more preferably 25 mbar to 75 mbar, measured at 20°C.

[0067] The opening pressure differential (mbar) is typically measured using a water column with the valve sealingly attached to the bottom of the column, and then measuring the height of water required to open the valve at the target temperature. The opening pressure is typically available from the valve manufacturer, including in the technical literature provided for the valve.

[0068] Suitable one-way valves include duckbill valves, umbrella valves, flapper valves, ball valves, degassing valves, and spring-loaded valves.

[0069] Duckbill valves are typically one-piece elastomeric components that act as backflow prevention devices or one-way or check valves. They have a duckbill-shaped elastomeric lip that prevents backflow and allows forward flow. A key advantage of duckbill valves over other types of one-way valves is that they are self-contained; the critical sealing function is an integral part of the one-piece elastomeric component, as opposed to valves where the sealing element must engage a smooth seating surface to form a seal. Therefore, duckbill valves are easily incorporated and assembled into a wide variety of devices without the hassle or problems associated with the surface finish quality of the mating seat and / or complex assembly processes. Duckbill valves can be supplied by Minivalve (The Netherlands).

[0070] Umbrella valves and Belleville valves are elastomeric valve components with a diaphragm-shaped sealing disc (umbrella shape). These elastomeric parts are used as sealing elements in backflow prevention devices, one-way valves, check valves, vent valves, pressure relief valves, and metering valves. When attached to a valve seat, the convex diaphragm flattens against the seat, absorbing a specific amount of seat irregularity and creating a specific sealing force. Umbrella valves allow forward flow when head pressure generates enough force to lift the convex diaphragm from the seat, thus allowing flow at a predetermined pressure in one direction and immediately preventing backflow in the opposite direction. Umbrella valves can be supplied by Minivalve (The Netherlands).

[0071] Degassing valves are typically found on coffee bags, allowing gases generated by roasted beans to escape from the bag. When used in the present invention, the degassing valve is installed inverted so that air can enter the package (1) through the one-way vent (70) but cannot exit the package. Degassing valves are well known and typically include a cap, an elastic disk, a viscous layer, a plate (usually made of polyethylene), and a paper filter. An elastic disk, such as a rubber diaphragm, is enclosed within the valve, and the side positioned on the outside of the container (10) or cap (70) has a viscous layer of sealant liquid that maintains surface tension against the valve. When the pressure differential from the resiliently squeezable container (10), which resiliently returns to its original shape, exceeds the surface tension, the elastic disk is released, allowing air to enter the container (10). Suitable degassing valves are provided by EPAC Flexible (Ghana), MTPak (China), WIPF Doypak (Turkey), and others. Since the degassing valve is installed inversely on the container (10) or cap (70), the valve is preferably protected by an air permeable cover.

[0072] A spring-loaded valve comprises a spring that holds a closure means, such as a ball or pin, in place. An opposing pressure differential is therefore required to open the valve. The spring can be metal or another resilient material, such as a suitable plastic or rubber.

[0073] base: The package comprises a base (20) operably connected to the container (10). The base comprises an orifice (30) that optionally includes a slit valve (40).

[0074] Base 20 may include a cap (not shown) that is at least partially, and more preferably completely, removable from base 20. If the package is to be more resistant to leakage due to pressure changes during use, shipping, and storage, the cap is preferably not sealingly engaged with orifice 30. Preferably, base 20 does not include a cap, or base 20 includes a cap that is completely removable and can be removed and discarded before first use. Alternatively, base 20 may also include a sticker covering orifice 30 as additional protection against leakage during shipping.

[0075] A suitable slit valve 40 may be a flexible, elastomeric, resilient, two-way, self-closing slit-type valve mounted within the orifice 30. The slit valve 40 includes a flexible central portion 41 having a slit 42 therein. The slit 42 typically extends radially outward toward a distal end 43. For example, the orifice 30 may include a slit valve 40 formed from one slit 42 or two or more intersecting slits 42 that can open to allow liquid to be dispensed through the orifice 30 in response to an increase in pressure within the resiliently squeezable container 10, such as when the resiliently squeezable container 10 is squeezed. The slit valve 40 preferably includes at least two coincident slits 42, preferably forming a star-shaped pattern and defining flaps 44. More preferably, the slit valve includes two coincident slits (42) to balance ease of administration with prevention of leakage.

[0076] The slit valve 40 is typically designed to close the orifice 30 and stop liquid flow through the orifice 30 in response to a reduction in the pressure differential across the slit valve 40. The amount of pressure required to open the slit valve 40 depends in part on the internal resistance of the slit valve 40. "Internal resistance" (i.e., cracking pressure) refers to a predetermined resistance threshold to deformation / opening of the slit valve 40. In other words, the slit valve 40 tends to resist deformation / opening so that it remains closed under steady-state liquid pressure pressing against the inside 45 of the orifice 30. The amount of pressure required to deform / open the valve must overcome this internal resistance. This internal resistance should not be so low as to cause liquid leakage. Thus, the slit valve (40) preferably has an opening pressure differential from the inside (45) to the outside (46) of the orifice (30) of at least 10 mbar, preferably at least 15 mbar, more preferably at least 25 mbar, measured at 20° C. The internal resistance should not be so high as to make it difficult to dispense a dose of liquid.

[0077] The use of a slit valve (40) that opens at a relatively low pressure differential helps to prevent the composition from spraying out of the orifice (30), particularly when the bottom dispensing package (1) contains a low viscosity liquid. -1 When the liquid detergent composition has a viscosity of 100 mPa·s to 3,000 mPa·s, preferably 300 mPa·s to 2,000 mPa·s, and most preferably 500 mPa·s to 1,500 mPa·s, measured at a shear rate of 100 / min, the slit valve (40) preferably opens at a pressure difference of 10 to 250 mbar, preferably 15 to 150 mbar, and more preferably 25 to 75 mbar, measured at 20°C.

[0078] Furthermore, the use of a slit valve 40 that opens at such a low pressure differential also means that a smaller pressure differential is required to draw air through the slit valve 40, at which point removal of the squeeze allows the container 10 to return to its original shape. This is particularly important for packages 1 with more resilient containers 10, as insufficient pressure differential across the slit valve 40 means that not enough air will be drawn through the valve 40 and into the container 10 to allow the container to return to its undeformed shape.

[0079] The opening pressure differential (mbar) is typically measured using a water column with the slit valve sealingly attached to the bottom of the column, and then measuring the height of water required to open the slit valve at the target temperature. Opening pressures are typically available from the valve manufacturer, including in the technical literature provided for the valve.

[0080] Preferably, the slit valve (40) is 0.1 cm 2 ~10cm 2 , more preferably 0.3 cm 2 ~5cm 2 , most preferably 0.5 cm 2 ~2cm 2 Preferably, slit valve 40 has a height of 1 mm to 10 mm, more preferably 2 mm to 5 mm. Other dimensions can be used as long as they allow slit valve 40 to remain in a fully closed position at rest.

[0081] The slit valve (40) can be made from thermoplastic elastomers, silicones, and blends thereof, preferably silicones, and can include additives known in the art, for example, to optimize the durability and flexibility of the valve.

[0082] Because the resiliently squeezable container is made from an elastomer, the bottom dispensing package (1) of the present invention is less prone to leakage due to pressure changes (e.g., temperature changes) during storage and shipping. However, leakage can also result from a temporary increase in liquid pressure due to an impact, such as when the package is dropped or when sufficient force is applied to a surface. This temporary increase in liquid pressure inside the container, also known as fluid hammer pressure, can cause the liquid to momentarily force open the valve, causing the liquid to leak.

[0083] Accordingly, the base (20) of the bottom dispensing package (1) may further include an anti-shock system (50) located upstream of the orifice (30), as described in EP 3492400 A1. The system (50) comprises a housing (51) having a cavity (52) therein and extending longitudinally and radially inward from the base (20), the housing (51) comprising at least one inlet opening (53a) providing a flow path for liquid from the resiliently squeezable container (10) into the housing (51) and at least one outlet opening (53b) providing an escape path for liquid from the housing (51) to the external atmosphere when the orifice (30) is opened, the cavity (52) adapted to be partially occupied by a compressible material (54).

[0084] Suitable compressible material (54) may be selected from gas, foam, sponge, or balloon, preferably gas, more preferably air. The ratio of the volume of gas, preferably air, inside the housing (51) to the volume of the elastically squeezable container (10) in the steady state may be greater than 0.001, preferably between 0.005 and 0.05, more preferably between 0.01 and 0.02.

[0085] The housing (51) may have an internal volume of 200 mm to 250,000 mm, preferably 1,500 mm to 75,000 mm. The inlet openings (53a) may have a total surface area of ​​1 mm to 250 mm, preferably 15 mm to 150 mm. The housing (51) typically comprises or is made of a plastic material, preferably a thermoplastic material, preferably polypropylene.

[0086] The bottom dispensing package (1) may further comprise a baffle (60) positioned between the interior (45) of the orifice (30) and the shock resistant system (50), preferably the baffle (60) including an obstruction member (61) supported by at least one support member (62) that accommodates movement of the obstruction member (61) between a closed position that blocks the flow of liquid when the baffle (60) is subjected to a fluid hammer pressure upstream.

[0087] The base (20) can include a bottom surface (21) that can optionally be adapted to allow the package (1) to rest on a flat surface. Alternatively, the base (20) can include a base wall (23) that extends at least partially, preferably fully connected to the periphery of the bottom surface (21) and from the periphery of the bottom surface (21) to a base wall rim (22), such that the bottom-dispensing package (1) can rest on the base wall rim (22). Such a base wall (23) can further include an outer base wall surface (24) and an inner base wall surface (25).

[0088] Alternatively, or in addition, at least a portion of the base 20 can be made from an elastomer to reduce leakage due to transient increases in liquid pressure from impact. By making at least a portion of the base 20 from an elastomer, at least a portion of the transient liquid pressure increase (hydraulic hammer pressure) described above is absorbed. The body of the base 20 is preferably made at least in part from an elastomer. The body of the base refers to the features of the base 20 that are formed together during molding of the base 20. This excludes elements such as optional slit valves 40, shock-resistant systems 50, and the like, which are typically formed separately and mechanically connected to the body of the base 20. As a result, leakage due to transient increases in liquid pressure from such impact is reduced or even avoided. Preferably, the bottom wall 23 comprises an elastomer. For example, the base wall (23) can be molded from a hard plastic such as polypropylene, and an elastomeric lip including the base wall rim (22) can be overmolded onto the base wall (23). More preferably, the bottom wall (23) is made from an elastomer.

[0089] However, when the base wall 23 is at least partially made of an elastomer, the base 20 may stick to surfaces due to negative pressure generated within the interior space bounded by the base wall 23, especially when the base wall rim 22 is wet. Therefore, the base wall 23 may include at least one hole 26, and / or the base rim 22 may include at least one channel 27. Such holes 26 and channels 27 connect the exterior base wall surface 24 and the interior base wall surface 25, thereby avoiding the generation of negative "suction" pressure within the interior region of the base wall 23. The bottom wall 23 may include 1 to 8 holes 26, preferably 1 to 4 holes 26. The base rim 22 may include 1 to 8 channels 27, preferably 1 to 4 channels 27, and more preferably 4 channels 27. A channel (27) in the bottom wall rim (22) is preferred.

[0090] The elastomer used in the base (20) can have a Shore A (Type A) hardness of 0 to 80, preferably 5 to 60, and more preferably 10 to 40. Shore A hardness can be measured using the method described in ISO 868:2003 (last reviewed and validated in 2018). The elastomer can have a tensile elongation (at break) of 200% to 1000%, preferably 250% to 750%, and more preferably 300% to 700%, measured in the machine direction at 23°C and an extension rate of 200 mm / min using the method described in ISO 37:2017 (last reviewed and validated in 2022). Elongation at break is a characteristic value that represents the maximum elongation experienced by a tensile test specimen at the moment of break. It therefore represents the deformability of a material under tensile load. The elastomer may have a compression set of less than 50%, preferably less than 35%, and more preferably less than 20%, measured over a 72-hour period at 23°C using the method described in ISO 815-1:2019. Compression set measures the ability of an elastomer to resist hardening and retain its elastic properties at ambient temperature after prolonged compression. As such, compression set provides an indication of the elastomer's ability to resist physical or chemical changes that prevent it from returning to its original dimensions or from excessively losing its elasticity after release of a deforming force.

[0091] The body of the base 20 and the resiliently squeezable container 10 may be co-molded together, particularly if they are made from the same elastomer. In such embodiments, the resiliently squeezable container 10 and the base 20 are essentially a single element.

[0092] Liquid composition: The bottom dispensing container (1) has a low tendency to leak, so the bottom dispensing container (1) is viscous and has a viscosity of 10 s according to the viscosity test method described herein. -1The composition is particularly suitable for containing liquid compositions, in particular liquid detergent compositions, having a viscosity of from 100 mPa·s to 3,000 mPa·s, preferably from 300 mPa·s to 2,000 mPa·s, and most preferably from 500 mPa·s to 1,500 mPa·s, measured at a shear rate of 100 mPa·s to 1,500 mPa·s. The composition may be a Newtonian or non-Newtonian fluid, preferably a Newtonian fluid.

[0093] The composition preferably has a density of 0.5 g / mL to 2 g / mL, more preferably 0.8 g / mL to 1.5 g / mL, and most preferably 1 g / mL to 1.2 g / mL.

[0094] The detergent composition, particularly when formulated as a manual dishwashing composition, may comprise from 5% to 50%, preferably from 8% to 45%, most preferably from 15% to 40% by weight of the total composition of a surfactant system.

[0095] For manual dishwashing applications, the surfactant system preferably comprises an alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant and a co-surfactant. The co-surfactant may be selected from the group consisting of amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, and mixtures thereof. The surfactant system may comprise the anionic surfactant and the co-surfactant in a weight ratio of 8:1 to 1:1, preferably 4:1 to 2:1, and more preferably 3.5:1 to 2.5:1.

[0096] The surfactant system may comprise 40% to 90%, preferably 65% ​​to 85%, more preferably 70% to 80% by weight of the surfactant system of an anionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of alkyl sulfates, alkyl alkoxy sulfates, and mixtures thereof, preferably an alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant, more preferably an alkyl sulfate anionic surfactant. Preferred alkyl alkoxy sulfates are alkyl ethoxy sulfates. More preferred anionic surfactants are alkyl ethoxy sulfates or mixed alkyl sulfate-alkyl ethoxy sulfate anionic surfactant systems having a molar average degree of ethoxylation of less than 5, preferably less than 3, more preferably less than 2, and greater than 0.5. The molar average degree of ethoxylation is calculated as the molar average degree of ethoxylation for the alkyl ethoxy sulfate blend or, if alkyl sulfate is present, for the mixed alkyl sulfate-alkyl ethoxy sulfate anionic surfactant system.

[0097] Preferably, the alkyl ethoxy sulfate, or mixed alkyl sulfate-alkyl ethoxy sulfate, anionic surfactant has a weight average branching level of 5% to about 60%, preferably 10% to 50%, more preferably 20% to 40%. The weight average degree of branching is calculated as the weight average degree of branching for the alkyl ethoxy sulfate blend or, if alkyl sulfates are present, for the mixed alkyl sulfate-alkyl ethoxy sulfate anionic surfactant system.

[0098] Suitable examples of commercially available alkyl sulfate anionic surfactants include those derived from alcohols sold by Shell under the trade name Neodol® or by Sasol under the trade names Lial®, Isalchem®, and Safol®, or some of the natural alcohols manufactured by Procter & Gamble Chemicals.

[0099] The surfactant system may contain additional anionic surfactants, including sulfonate or sulfosuccinate anionic surfactants such as HLAS. However, the composition preferably contains less than 30% by weight, preferably less than 15% by weight, more preferably less than 10% by weight of the surfactant system of additional anionic surfactants. Most preferably, the surfactant system does not contain additional anionic surfactants other than alkyl sulfate anionic surfactants.

[0100] The composition may further comprise, as part of the surfactant system, a co-surfactant selected from the group consisting of amphoteric surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, and mixtures thereof. The composition preferably comprises from 0.1% to 20%, more preferably from 0.5% to 15%, especially from 2% to 10% co-surfactant by weight of the cleaning composition.

[0101] The surfactant system of the cleaning composition of the present invention preferably comprises from 10% to 40%, preferably from 15% to 35%, more preferably from 20% to 30% co-surfactant by weight of the surfactant system.

[0102] The co-surfactant is preferably an amphoteric surfactant, more preferably an amine oxide surfactant. Preferably, the amine oxide surfactant is selected from the group consisting of alkyl dimethyl amine oxide, alkyl amidopropyl dimethyl amine oxide, and mixtures thereof. Alkyl dimethyl amine oxides such as C8-18 alkyl dimethyl amine oxide or C10-16 alkyl dimethyl amine oxide (e.g., cocodimethyl amine oxide) are preferred. Suitable alkyl dimethyl amine oxides include C10 alkyl dimethyl amine oxide surfactants, C10-12 alkyl dimethyl amine oxide surfactants, C12-C14 alkyl dimethyl amine oxide surfactants, and mixtures thereof. C12-C14 alkyl dimethyl amine oxides are particularly preferred.

[0103] Suitable zwitterionic surfactants include betaine surfactants. Such betaine surfactants include alkyl betaines, alkylamido betaines, amidoazolinium betaines, sulfobetaines (INCI sultaines), and phosphobetaines. The most preferred zwitterionic surfactant is cocoamidopropyl betaine.

[0104] Preferably, the surfactant system may further comprise from 1% to 25%, preferably from 1.25% to 20%, more preferably from 1.5% to 15%, and most preferably from 1.5% to 5% by weight of the surfactant system of an alkoxylated nonionic surfactant.

[0105] Preferably, the alkoxylated nonionic surfactant is a linear or branched primary or secondary alkyl alkoxylated nonionic surfactant, preferably an alkyl ethoxylated nonionic surfactant, preferably containing an average of 9 to 15, preferably 10 to 14 carbon atoms in the alkyl chain and an average of 5 to 12, preferably 6 to 10, most preferably 7 to 8, units of ethylene oxide per mole of alcohol.

[0106] Alternatively, or in addition, the composition may include an alkyl polyglucoside ("APG") surfactant, which may improve lather over comparable nonionic surfactants, such as alkyl ethoxylated surfactants. When present, the alkyl polyglucoside may be present in the surfactant system at a concentration of 0.5% to 20%, preferably 0.75% to 15%, more preferably 1% to 10%, and most preferably 1% to 5%, by weight of the surfactant composition.

[0107] The cleaning composition may have a pH of 5 to 12, more preferably 7.5 to 10, measured at 20° C. at a 10% dilution with distilled water. The pH of the composition may be adjusted using pH adjusting ingredients known in the art.

[0108] Suitable cleaning compositions are described in European Patent Application No. 3511402.

[0109] Test Method: Immersion volume, overflow volume and elasticity index The test is carried out on containers that are at least 3 days old to avoid the effects of shrinkage of the containers after manufacture. The test is carried out at a room temperature of 20°C and a room pressure of 1013±1 Pa.

[0110] Distilled water having a density of 1.000±0.002 g / mL when measured at 20° C. is added to a beaker of at least 5 L volume. If desired, dye can be added to improve visibility, provided the target density is achieved.

[0111] The container is weighed using a laboratory balance with an accuracy of 0.001 g.

[0112] The container is then completely immersed in a beaker with the opening facing up, and 20°C distilled water is poured into the beaker, followed by gentle shaking to expel any remaining air from the container. Holding the container by the hardest part of the neck, the container is carefully lifted out of the beaker, while avoiding squeezing the container and allowing any solution to leak out. The filled container is wiped dry and reweighed on a balance to determine the weight of the solution contained in the container when it was immersed. From the weight of the distilled water, the immersion volume (mL) can be deduced. The container is then refilled to the brim with additional 20°C distilled water, and the container is reweighed to determine the weight of the distilled water contained in the container after refilling to the brim. From the weight of this surfactant solution, the expelled volume can be deduced. The expelled volume is the total volume of distilled water contained in the container after refilling. The time between immersion in the water bath and weighing should be less than 2 minutes.

[0113] The elasticity index is calculated using the following formula and is expressed as a percentage:

[0114]

number

[0115] Peak Pressure The peak pressure is the pressure in the empty container at a defined temperature above the filling temperature. A temperature and pressure probe (preferably an MSR145B4 data logger) is placed in the empty container, the container is capped with a sealing engagement cap (without an orifice), and the container is maintained at a temperature of 20°C and an atmospheric pressure of 1013±1 Pa, while ensuring that no additional pressure above ambient atmospheric pressure is exerted on the container during capping. The container is placed in a constant temperature oven and set to the desired temperature at 1013±1 Pa for 4 hours, and the maximum (peak) pressure logged by the temperature and pressure probe is recorded. The method is repeated using five different containers, and the average peak pressure is recorded.

[0116] leakage The container was filled to 10% of the container size (recommended fill volume) with Fairy® original dark green dishwashing product having a viscosity in the range of 1,000±200 mPa·s at 20°C and left for 10 seconds. -1 The shear rate is measured at 1000 kJ / min (e.g., Belgian Market Products, 2018), and the container is sealed with a cap equipped with a V21-145 slit valve (supplied by Aptar). After weighing the cup, the container is placed inverted in the cup, and the cap of the container is positioned at a distance from the bottom of the cup. The container is then placed in a constant temperature oven at 40°C. After 1 hour, the container and cup are removed from the oven, the container is removed from the cup, the cup is reweighed, and the weight of the product leaking from the container is measured.

[0117] Leak resistance during impact The purpose of the leak-proof test is to evaluate the ability of a liquid dispenser to prevent leakage of liquid from an inverted container during an "impact." The impact occurs when the inverted container is dropped, dispenser-side down, from a specific height onto a flat surface. The drop is intended to simulate the temporary increase in liquid pressure that occurs with an impact in an inverted container. The leak-proof ability of a liquid dispenser is evaluated by measuring the drop height at which the volume / weight of liquid does not leak during the drop. A higher leak-proof drop height correlates to a better leak-proof ability of the liquid dispenser. The steps of the method are as follows: 1. Use a drop test apparatus as shown in Figure 10. The apparatus consists of two top and bottom open-ended cylindrical tubes with a diameter of approximately 12 cm; i.e., the outer tube tightly surrounds an inner tube that can be moved vertically into the outer tube, and the outer tube has a cutout section that allows visual assessment of the relative height of the inner tube within the outer tube using a rating scale applied to the outer tube. A removable lever is applied to the bottom of the inner tube, and an inverted container (2) is positioned within the inner tube with its opening facing downwards so that it rests on the lever. When the lever is manually removed, the inverted container falls, and the amount of leaked liquid after exposure is measured. To do this, a piece of paper is placed on the hard surface at the bottom of the open-ended outer container to capture the leaked liquid. The weight of the paper is measured on a scale before and after the drop test to determine the amount of leaked liquid. The height to which the lever was positioned before manual removal is measured as the drop height. 2. An inverted container (2) having a defined volume (e.g., 400 mL or 650 mL) is filled with a standard liquid dishwashing detergent having a density of 1.03 g / mL and a Newtonian fluid viscosity of 1000 cps at 20°C, as measured with a Brookfield Type DV-II equipped with a spindle 31 rotating at 12 RPM, to a defined fill level within the inverted container. For example, a 400 mL inverted container is filled with 400 mL of liquid dishwashing detergent, and a 650 mL inverted container is filled with 650 mL of liquid dishwashing detergent. The liquid fill level, inverted container volume, and liquid composition are kept constant when cross-comparing different closed systems. 3. Assemble a liquid dispenser with a valve (Simplicity 21-200 "Simplisqueeze®" valve available from Aptar Group, Inc.) with an inverted container (2) as shown in Figure 4. The liquid dispenser has a frusto-conical exterior (e.g., 65 mm bottom diameter, 34 mm top diameter, and 30 mm height) for resting on a flat surface, and is optionally equipped with internally deployed baffles (e.g., 7 mm diameter, five ribs extending outward from a 4 mm central ball), an anti-shock system (30) according to the present invention, or both. 4. Set the drop height of the drop tester (2cm to 15cm). 5. Cut a piece of paper approximately 7cm x 7cm to fit the opening at the bottom of the outer tube. 6. Weigh the paper strip using a Mettler Toledo PR1203 balance and record the weight. 7. Place the piece of paper under the opening at the bottom end of the outer tube. 8. Place the assembled liquid dispenser and inverted container (2) liquid dispenser side down into the inner tube of the drop tester. 9. With a quick, smooth movement, pull back the lever inside the drop tester. 10. Remove the tube and assembled liquid dispenser and inverted container from the drop tester. 11. Weigh the paper strip again and record the weight. Calculate the difference in weight of the paper. Delta corresponds to the amount of liquid that leaked out of the liquid dispenser. 12. Repeat steps 5-11 four more times for a total of five replicates for each test condition. 13. Calculate the average maximum drop height without liquid leakage.

[0118] viscosity The viscosity of the liquid detergent compositions is measured using a DHR-1 rotational flow meter manufactured by TA Instruments using a cone-plate geometry with a diameter of 40 mm, an angle of 2.008°, and a truncated gap of 56 μm. Unless otherwise stated, viscosity is measured at 10 s -1 The shear rate is measured.

[0119] Dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm."

Claims

1. A bottom portion-dispensing package (1) for a liquid composition, comprising: a. a resiliently squeezable container (10) for containing said liquid composition, said resiliently squeezable container comprising a container wall (11), said container wall (11) being at least partially made from an elastomer; an elastically squeezable container (10), wherein the container wall (11) of the elastically squeezable container (10) comprises an inner surface (15) and an outer surface (14), the inner surface (15) comprises at least one circumferentially oriented groove (80), the at least one circumferentially oriented groove (80) being formed so as not to affect the surface shape of the outer surface (14), the height of the at least one circumferentially oriented groove (80) being between 0.1 mm and 6.0 mm, the height being measured as the distance between a groove bottom (83) and a groove top (82) measured perpendicular to the outer surface (14) of the container wall (11); a base (20) operably connected to said container (10), said base comprising an orifice (30);

2. 2. The bottom portion dispensing package (1) of claim 1, wherein the interior surface (15) of the container (10) comprises a plurality of circumferentially oriented grooves (80) across a groove zone (4) extending over at least 25% of the height of the container (10).

3. 3. A bottom portion dispensing package (1) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the container wall (11) has a wide portion (2) so that at least a portion of the outer surface of the container (10) has a convex shape, and the at least one groove (80) is at least partially positioned in the wide portion (2) of the container wall (11).

4. 2. The bottom portion dispensing package (1) of claim 1, wherein the height of the at least one circumferentially oriented groove (80) is between 0.5 mm and 5.0 mm, and the height is measured as the distance between the groove bottom (83) and the groove top (82) measured perpendicular to the outer surface (14) of the container wall (11).

5. 2. The bottom portion dispensing package (1) of claim 1, wherein the interior surface (15) comprises at least two circumferentially oriented grooves (80), and when the circumferentially oriented grooves (80) are present, the grooves (80) can be spaced apart such that a pitch (81) is less than 1 mm to 15 mm, the pitch (81) being defined as the distance between two adjacent peaks of the circumferentially oriented grooves (80) on the interior surface (15) of the resiliently squeezable container.

6. 2. The bottom portion dispensing package (1) of claim 1, wherein when the groove (80) is positioned, the container wall (11) has a wall thickness of 0.25 mm to 8.0 mm, the thickness being measured as the distance between the outer surface (14) of the container wall (11) and the groove bottom (83), measured perpendicular to the outer surface (14).

7. 2. The bottom portion dispensing package (1) of claim 1, wherein the elastomer used to make the resiliently squeezable container (10) is selected from the group consisting of a thermoplastic elastomer, a silicone rubber, a rubber, or a combination thereof.

8. The elastomer used to make the elastically squeezable container (10) is a. a Shore A (Type A) hardness of 0 to 80, wherein the Shore A hardness is measured using the method described in ISO 868:2003; and b. A tensile elongation (at break) measured in the machine direction at an extension rate of 200 mm / min at 23° C. using the method described in ISO 37:2017 from 200% to 1000%; and c. A compression set of less than 50%, measured over 72 hours at 23°C using the method described in ISO 815-1:2019.

9. 2. The bottom portion dispensing package (1) according to claim 1, wherein the container (10) has a wide portion (2) such that at least a portion of the outer surface of the container (10) has a convex shape.

10. 2. The bottom portion dispensing package (1) of claim 1, wherein the container wall (11) has a narrow portion (3) so that at least a portion of the outer surface of the container (10) has a concave shape, the container wall (11) has both a wide portion (2) and a narrow portion (3), and the narrow portion (3) is above the wide portion (2).

11. 2. The bottom portion dispensing package (1) of claim 1, wherein the container (10) is provided with a one-way vent (70) that allows air to enter the container (10) while preventing air from escaping from the container (10), and the one-way vent (70) is positioned in the top of the container (10) and / or the container wall (11) at a height greater than 90% of the height of the package.

12. 2. The bottom dispensing package (1) of claim 1, wherein the orifice (30) comprises a slit valve (40), the slit valve (40) opening at a pressure difference of 10 to 250 mbar measured at 20°C.

13. The base (20) does not include a cap, or 2. The bottom portion dispensing package (1) of claim 1, wherein the base (20) is fully removable and includes a cap that can be removed and discarded before first use.

14. The bottom portion dispensing package (1) contains a liquid detergent composition, the liquid detergent composition containing 10s －１ 2. The bottom portion dispensing package (1) according to claim 1, having a viscosity of 100 mPa·s to 3,000 mPa·s, measured at a shear rate of 100 mPa·s to 3,000 mPa·s.

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