Spouts and package-spout assemblies for packaging

Abstract

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

Description

Technical Field

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

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

Background Art

[0003] As is known, many liquid or injectable food products, such as fruit juices, UHT (ultra-high temperature treated) milk, wine, tomato sauce, etc., are sold in packages made of sterilized packaging materials.

[0004] A typical example is a parallelepiped package for an injectable food product known as Tetra Brik Aseptic (registered trademark), which is made by sealing and folding a laminated strip packaging material. The packaging material has a multi-layer structure including cardboard and / or a paper-based layer covered on both sides with a layer of a heat-sealable plastic material, such as polyethylene. In the case of a sterilized package for a long-term storage product, the packaging material also includes a layer of an oxygen barrier material, such as an aluminum foil, laminated to a layer of a heat-sealable plastic material, and is ultimately covered with another layer of a heat-sealable plastic material that forms the inner surface of the package that comes into contact with the food.

[0005] Some versions of these packages include a designated pour opening area that is perforable and / or rupturable, and a spout fitted to the package.

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

[0007] The lid also includes a plurality of flaps configured to protrude from the lid into the internal space when the lid is in contact with the collar and to contact each of the interacting elements of the cutter. While the lid is initially rotated off, each flap interacts with its respective interacting element to induce a rotational translation of the cutter to guide it toward and through a designated pouring opening area. The rotational translation of the cutter is also defined by a cam mechanism, one part of which is provided on the inner surface of the collar and the other part on the outer surface of the cutter facing the inner surface of the collar.

[0008] A drawback of these types of spouts is that the lid needs to be detached to control the cutter, which can lead to the lid being lost. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

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

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

[0011] According to the present invention, a spout as described in an independent claim is provided.

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

[0013] According to the present invention, the package-spout assembly described in claim 16 is also provided.

[0014] Two non-limiting embodiments of the present invention are described as examples with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view of a package-spout assembly having a spout according to a first embodiment of the present invention, arranged in a first configuration with components removed for clarity. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the package-spout assembly, with parts removed for clarity and the spout positioned in the second configuration. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the package-spout assembly, with parts removed for clarity and the spout positioned in the third configuration. [Figure 4] Figures 1-3 show the spout in an exploded view with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 5a-5b] Figures 1-4 show detailed perspective views of the spouts arranged in the first and second configurations, respectively, with parts removed for clarity. [Figures 6a-6b] Figures 1-4 show perspective views of other details of the spout, arranged in the first and second configurations, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 7] Figures 1-4 show detailed cross-sectional views of the spout with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 8] Figures 1-4 show perspective views of the spout in further detail, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 9]Schematic perspective view of a package-spout assembly having a spout according to a second embodiment of the present invention, arranged in a first configuration, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 10] Schematic perspective view of the package-spout assembly of FIG. 18, with parts removed for clarity, where the spout is arranged in a second configuration. [Figure 11] Exploded view of the spout of FIGS. 9 and 10, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 12] Detailed cross-sectional view of the spout of FIGS. 9 - 11, with parts removed for clarity.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0016] The numeral 1 as a whole represents a package-spout assembly, - A sealed package 2 having a designated pouring opening area (not shown and known as such), particularly a sealed cardboard package, and - A spout 3 fitted to the package 2 around the designated pouring opening area, particularly a plastic spout is shown for a package-spout assembly including.

[0017] Preferably, the package 2 is filled with an injectable product, particularly an injectable food, and more specifically a sterilized and / or pasteurized injectable food such as milk or juice, but not necessarily so.

[0018] The package 2 is obtained from a web of packaging material (not shown) having a multi-layer structure and includes at least one layer of a fibrous material such as paper or cardboard, and at least two layers of a heat-sealable plastic material such as polyethylene inserted between the layers of the fibrous material. One of the two layers of heat-sealable plastic material defines the inner surface of the package 2 that contacts the injectable product. [[ID=三十二]] [[ID=三十三]]

[0019] [[ID=三十四]] Preferably, the web of the packaging material also includes, but is not necessarily, a layer of gas and light shielding material, such as aluminum foil or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film, which is positioned between one of the layers of heat-sealable plastic material and the layer of fibrous material. Preferably, the web of the packaging material also includes, but is not necessarily, a further layer of heat-sealable plastic material inserted between the layer of gas and light shielding material and the layer of fibrous material.

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

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

[0022] Referring particularly to Figures 1 and 3, package 2 extends along the longitudinal axis A.

[0023] Ideally, package 2 is a parallelepiped, but this is not necessarily the case.

[0024] In particular, the designated pouring opening area of ​​package 2 is configured to be at least partially (irreversibly) opened and / or burst and / or cut and / or perforated in order to allow the injectable product to flow out of package 2, in particular through the spout 3. More specifically, the designated pouring opening area is configured to allow the injectable product to flow out after the loss of its integrity, and to protect the injectable product from the external environment before it is cut and / or opened and / or burst and / or perforated.

[0025] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the designated pouring opening region includes a separation membrane (not shown, but known) configured to be ruptured and / or opened and / or cut and / or perforated. In particular, the separation membrane separates the inside of package 2 from the outside of package 2 in the region of the designated pouring opening region, and especially in the designated pouring opening region. Preferably, the separation membrane includes, but is not limited to, a gas and light shielding material, such as aluminum foil or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film.

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

[0027] Referring particularly to Figure 4, the spout 3 is at least, - A base frame 4 configured to fit around a designated pouring opening area of ​​package 2, - An opening assembly 5, which is movably connected to a base frame 4 and is adapted to at least partially cut and / or burst and / or open and / or perforate a designated pouring opening area, - A control device configured to interact with the opening assembly 5 and to control the opening assembly 5 between a stop configuration, in particular, a stop configuration in which the opening assembly 5 is retracted from the designated pouring opening area when the base frame 4 is fitted around the designated pouring opening area, in particular the separation membrane (i.e., when the opening assembly 5 is controlled in the stop configuration, it will not open and / or cut and / or burst and / or perforate the designated pouring opening area, in particular the separation membrane, when in use) and an operating configuration in which, when in use, the opening assembly 5 is configured to at least partially cut and / or burst and / or open and / or perforate the designated pouring opening area, in particular the separation membrane, when the base frame 4 is fitted around the designated pouring opening area, in particular the separation membrane. Includes.

[0028] According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment, the spout 3 also includes an outlet cap 6 configured to allow the outflow of an injectable product from the package 2 when the spout 3 is positioned in the package and when a designated pouring opening area, in particular the separation membrane, is at least partially open and / or cut and / or ruptured and / or perforated.

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

[0030] Referring particularly to Figures 4, 6a and 6b, the base frame 4 includes a connecting base 11 configured to connect and / or link the spout 3 to the package 2, and a collar 12 that defines and / or defines the boundary of the internal space 13 and is connected to the connecting base 11.

[0031] Preferably, the connecting base 11 is configured and / or fixed to the outer surface of the package 2, particularly in the area of ​​a designated pouring opening region, and more specifically in the area of ​​a designated pouring opening region, but is not necessarily so.

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

[0033] Preferably, at least a portion of the connecting base 11 has a substantially plate-like structure, but this is not necessarily the case.

[0034] Primarily, the collar 12 extends from the connecting base 11 along the longitudinal axis B, and particularly parallel to the longitudinal axis B, which is the central axis of the collar 12, but is not necessarily so.

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

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

[0037] Referring particularly to Figures 4, 5a and 5b, at least a portion of the opening assembly 5 is configured to at least translate, in particular to rotate and translate, in order to control the opening assembly 5 from a stationary configuration to an operating configuration.

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

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

[0040] In particular, the cutter 16 is movable between a stop position in which the operable assembly 5 is in a stopped configuration and an operating position in which the operable assembly 5 is in an operating configuration. Specifically, when the cutter 16 is positioned in the stop position with the spout 3 positioned in the package 2, it is positioned away from and / or at a distance from a designated pouring opening area, in particular the separation membrane, and when it is positioned in the operating position, it cuts and / or opens and / or ruptures and / or perforates a designated pouring opening area, in particular the separation membrane.

[0041] Preferably, the cutter 16 includes the outer surface 18 and the inner surface 19, but this is not necessarily the case.

[0042] Preferably, the cut section 17 has (including) a serrated profile, but is not necessarily required.

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

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

[0045] More specifically, the cutter 16 is rotatable about a central axis C of the cutter 16 itself, in particular axis C is parallel to axis B, and more specifically coaxial with axis B, and is configured to move along a direction D parallel to axis C (and B), in particular toward (and through) a designated pouring opening region, in particular a separation membrane.

[0046] In particular, the control device is configured to activate the rotation of the cutter 16 around axis C and the translation of the cutter 16 along direction D in order to control the opening assembly 5 from a stopped configuration to an operating configuration when in use.

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

[0048] Preferably, the cam group includes a cam profile 20 and at least one, preferably multiple, guide elements 21, and the cam profile 20 and guide elements 21 are configured to cooperate with each other to guide the cutter 16 as it moves between a stop position and an operating position, but not necessarily.

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

[0050] Preferably, the cam profile 20 is associated with and / or connected to and / or integrated with the cutter 16, and more specifically with the outer surface 18. In particular, the cam profile 20 protrudes from and / or is integrated with the cutter 16, especially the outer surface 18, but is not necessarily so.

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

[0052] Referring particularly to Figures 4, 6a and 6b, the outlet cap 6 is rotatably connected to the base frame 4, in particular to the collar 12, and in particular the outlet cap 6 is rotatable around its respective axis of rotation E.

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

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

[0055] More specifically, the outlet cap 6 includes a connecting ring 27 configured to rotatably connect the outlet cap 6 itself to the collar 12, and a stub 28, which is preferably, but not necessarily, a spout 26, and is particularly implemented as a mouthpiece.

[0056] Preferably, the connecting ring 27 is in contact with at least the collar 12, in particular at least the outer surface 15, and more specifically the outer surface 15 and the inner surface 14, but is not necessarily so.

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

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

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

[0060] Referring particularly to Figures 4, 5a, 5b, 6a, and 6b, the control device is - The opening assembly 5, in particular connected to the cutter 16, has a particularly integrated set of multiple interaction elements 29, - At least one control ring rotatably connected to the base frame 4, particularly the collar 12, around a rotation axis F that is parallel to axis B and / or axis C and / or axis E, and more specifically coaxial with axis B and / or axis C and / or axis E, - A plurality of interaction members 30 connected and / or linked to a control ring, each of which is configured to interact with one of its own interaction elements 29. Includes.

[0061] In particular, each interacting member 30 is connected to and / or linked to the control ring such that the rotation of the control ring around the axis F also induces the rotation of the interacting member 30, especially around the axis F.

[0062] In particular, during use, when the control ring rotates around the rotation axis F, the interaction element 29 and the interaction member 30 interact with each other such that the cutter 16 translates at least from the stop position to the operating position. Specifically, the interaction of the interaction element 29 and the interaction member 30 is such that, during use, when the control ring rotates, a rotational translation movement of the cutter 16 occurs to move the cutter 16 from the stop position to the operating position. More specifically, during use, when the control ring rotates, the cutter 16 translates along direction D and rotates around axis C.

[0063] While the rotational and translational movement of the cutter 16 is primarily guided by the cooperation of the guide element 21 and the cam profile 20, this is not always the case.

[0064] Each interacting member 30 includes an axial end portion 31 located particularly on the terminal side relative to the control ring, and in particular within a plane of rotation perpendicular to the rotation axis F, and during use, when the control ring rotates around the rotation axis F, the plane of rotation is fixed to the base frame 4 and / or package 2 and / or designated pouring opening area. In other words, the interacting members 30 and their respective axial end portions 31 do not translate relative to the base frame 4 and / or package 2 and / or designated pouring opening area.

[0065] According to the disclosed preferred non-limiting embodiments, each interacting member 30 rotates around axis F when the control ring rotates around axis F during use.

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

[0067] According to the disclosed preferred non-limiting embodiments, the control ring is defined by a portion of the outlet cap 6, particularly by a connecting ring 27, and thus the rotation of the control ring around axis F is actuated by the rotation of the outlet cap 6 around axis E during use. Additionally, an interacting member 30 is connected to the portion of the outlet cap 6 that defines the control ring. In other words, the outlet cap 6 includes the control ring.

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

[0069] Preferably, each interaction element 29 is positioned on the inner surface 19 of the cutter 16, but this is not necessarily the case. In particular, each interaction element 29 protrudes away from the inner surface 19.

[0070] In preference, when the operational assembly 5 is controlled from a stopped configuration to an operational configuration during use, each interaction element 29 comes into contact with its respective interaction member 30, but this is not necessarily the case.

[0071] Preferably, each interacting element 30 protrudes and / or extends from the control ring, in particular from the outlet cap 6 into the internal space 13, but is not necessarily so.

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

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

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

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

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

[0077] According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment, the connecting group 38 is at least one groove, - Base frame 4 and / or collar 12 and / or outer surface 15, and - Control ring and / or outlet cap 6 and / or connecting ring 27 and / or inner surface of connecting ring 27 It includes at least one groove related to and / or connected to one of the following.

[0078] In particular, the connecting group 38 also includes at least one, preferably a plurality of, engaging members 40 configured to engage with and / or engage with the groove, - Base frame 4 and / or collar 12 and / or outer surface 15, and, - Control ring and / or outlet cap 6 and / or connecting ring 27 and / or inner surface of connecting ring 27 It includes at least one, preferably multiple, engaging members 40 related to the other of the other.

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

[0080] According to alternative embodiments not shown, the groove may have an arc-shaped profile or may include multiple arc-shaped sections.

[0081] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, each engaging member 40 has an arc-shaped profile.

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

[0083] Referring particularly to Figure 7, the grooves are located on the base frame 4, especially the collar 12, and more specifically on the outer surface 15.

[0084] According to an illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the connecting group 38 includes two annular projections 39 spaced apart from each other, projecting from the base frame 24, in particular the collar 12, and more specifically the outer surface 15, and defining a groove.

[0085] Preferably, the grooves and / or annular projections 39 are integrated with the base frame 4, but this is not always the case.

[0086] Referring particularly to Figure 7, each engaging member 40 is positioned on the inner surface of the control ring and / or outlet cap 6 and / or connecting ring 27 and / or connecting ring 27, and protrudes from the inner surface of the control ring and / or outlet cap 6 and / or connecting ring 27 and / or connecting ring 27 into the groove.

[0087] Preferably, each engaging member 40 is integrated with the inner surface of the control ring and / or outlet cap 6 and / or connecting ring 27 and / or connecting ring 27, but this is not necessarily the case.

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

[0089] In particular, with the control ring positioned at an angled start position and an angled end position, the outlet assembly 5 is controlled in the stop position and the operating position, respectively, in the stop configuration and the operating configuration of the opening assembly and / or cutter 16. During use, the control ring, especially the outlet cap 6, is rotated from the angled start position to the angled end position in order to control the outlet assembly 5 from the stop configuration to the operating configuration, and / or the cutter 16 from the stop position to the operating position.

[0090] Preferably, the angled starting position and angled ending position are defined by the engaging element 32 that is in contact with the first contact element 33 and the second contact element 34, respectively, but this is not always the case.

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

[0092] According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment, the first contact element 33 and the second contact element 34 are arranged in use to control the control ring, and especially the outlet cap 6, by a rotation of 160° to 200°, and especially substantially 180°, from an angled starting position to an angled ending position.

[0093] More specifically, the first contact element 33 and the second contact element 34 are positioned on the collar 12, particularly on the outer surface 15. In particular, the first contact element 33 and the second contact element 34 are angularly displaced from each other.

[0094] Preferably, the first contact element 33 and the second contact element 34 are integrated with the base frame 4, particularly the color 12, but this is not always the case.

[0095] Referring particularly to Figures 4 and 8, the lid assembly 7 is configured to at least selectively close and open the spout 26 (when controlled in a closed configuration and an open configuration, respectively) in order to prevent and allow the outflow of the injectable product.

[0096] Preferably, the lid assembly 7 includes a ring-shaped frame 35 which is rotatable around each pivot axis G, and the rotation of the control ring, particularly the outlet cap 6, causes the rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35 and / or the rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35 causes the rotation of the control ring, particularly the outlet cap 6, in such a manner that the ring-shaped frame 35 is connected to the control ring, particularly the outlet cap 6, but is not necessarily so.

[0097] According to the illustrated preferred non-limiting embodiment, during use, the user contacts a portion of the ring-shaped frame 35 and rotates the ring-shaped frame 35 to simultaneously activate the rotation of the control ring and the outlet cap 6.

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

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

[0100] In particular, when the lid 36 is in the closed position and the open position, the lid assembly 7 is controlled in the closed configuration and the open configuration, respectively. When the lid 36 is controlled in the intermediate position, the lid assembly 7 is controlled in the respective intermediate configuration. The intermediate position of the lid 36 is considered to be particularly helpful to the consumer during the initial use of package 2.

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

[0102] More specifically, the actuation device includes at least one cam element 41, two of which are illustrated in particular, connected to and / or positioned and / or integrated with the base frame 4, particularly the collar 12, and more specifically with the outer surface 15; and at least one counter cam element 42, two of which are illustrated in particular, connected to and / or positioned and / or integrated with the lid 36 and configured to interact with the cam element 41 to apply force to the lid 36 when used in at least a portion of the rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35 in order to move the lid 36 from a closed position to an intermediate position.

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

[0104] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the exit cap 6 includes at least one through-hole 43, two of which are shown in particular, through which at least one countercam element 42 passes.

[0105] During use, the consumer activates the rotation of the control ring to control the opening assembly 5 from a stopped configuration to an operating configuration so that the opening assembly 5 perforates and / or cuts and / or opens and / or ruptures a designated spout area, in particular the separation membrane.

[0106] In particular, when the control ring rotates, the cutter 16 translates toward and through the separation membrane.

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

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

[0109] Referring to Figures 9-12, the number 3' indicates that spout 3' is similar to spout 3, and therefore refers to an alternative embodiment of the spout according to the present invention. The following description is limited to the differences between them, and where possible, the same reference numerals are used for identical or corresponding parts.

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

[0111] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the spout 3', in particular the base frame 4, and more specifically the collar 12, includes a spout 50 which is fluidly connected in particular to the internal space 13 and is configured to allow controlled outflow of the injectable product from the package 2, in particular when the separation membrane has lost its integrity.

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

[0113] In particular, spout 3' also differs from spout 3 in that it includes lid assembly 7'. Since lid assembly 7' is similar to lid assembly 7, the following description is limited to the differences between them, and where possible, the same reference numerals are used for similar or corresponding parts.

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

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

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

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

[0118] Primarily, the connecting group 37 rotatably connects and / or links the ring-shaped frame 35 to the base frame 4, particularly the collar 12, but not necessarily. In particular, the ring-shaped frame 35 supports one of the grooves and the engaging member 40, particularly the engaging member 40 in the illustrated example.

[0119] According to a preferred, non-limiting embodiment, the interaction member 30 is connected to the lid assembly 7', particularly to the lid 36. More specifically, the interaction member 30 protrudes from the lid 36.

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

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

[0122] Since using a 3' spout is similar to using a 3' spout, the following explanation will be limited to the differences between them.

[0123] In particular, the consumer operates the rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35 around axis G (and therefore around axis F) in order to control and / or move the opening assembly 5 from a stationary configuration to an operational configuration. The rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35 also results in the rotation of the interacting member 30 around axis F (and axis G). In particular, since the lid 36 is connected to and / or hinged to the ring-shaped frame 35, the rotation of the ring-shaped frame 35 is transferred to the lid 36 and thereby to the interacting member 30.

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

[0125] In particular, spouts 3 and 3' allow the separation membrane to be punctured and / or cut and / or opened and / or ruptured without separating any component from the package-spout assembly 1 itself.

[0126] Another advantage is that it allows the lid 36 to be partially opened while the ring-shaped frame 35 is rotating, facilitating the overall use of the package-spout assembly 1.

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

Claims

1. A spout (3, 3') for a sealed package (2) filled with an injectable product, The spout (3) is at least, - A base frame (4) configured to fit around a designated pouring opening area of ​​the sealing package (2), - An opening assembly (5) is movably connected to the base frame (4) and is adapted to at least partially cut and / or burst and / or open and / or perforate the designated pouring opening area, and the opening assembly (5) includes a cutter (16), at least a cutting section (17) of the cutter (16) is adapted to open and / or cut and / or burst and / or perforate the designated pouring opening area, - A control device configured to interact with the opening assembly (5) and to control the opening assembly (5) between a stop configuration and an operating configuration configured such that, when in use, the opening assembly (5) is configured to at least partially cut and / or burst and / or open and / or perforate the designated pouring opening area with the base frame (4) fitted around the designated pouring opening area. - Outlets (26, 50) configured to allow controlled flow of the injectable product, - A lid assembly (7, 7') for selectively closing or opening the spouts (26, 50), wherein the lid assembly (7, 7') is controllable between a closed configuration in which it closes the spouts (26, 50) and an open configuration in which it opens the spouts (26, 50), Equipped with, The control device, - Multiple interaction elements (29) connected to the opening assembly (5), - At least one control ring (35) rotatably connected to the base frame (4) around each of the rotation axes (E; F; G), - A plurality of interaction members (30) configured to be connected to and / or linked to the lid assembly (7') and to interact with the interaction element (29), Equipped with, The interaction member (30) is connected to and / or linked to the control ring (6, 35) such that the rotation of the control ring (6, 35) also induces the rotation of the interaction member (30). During use, when the control ring rotates around the rotation axis (E; F; G), the interaction member (30) interacts with the interaction element (29) to induce translation of the cutter (16) of the opening assembly (5) in order to control the opening assembly (5) from the stopped configuration to the operating configuration. The lid assembly (7, 7) further comprises a lid (36) hinged to the control ring (35), the lid (36) being displaceable between a closed position where it completely closes the spouts (26, 50), an intermediate position where it partially opens the spouts (26, 50), and an open position where it completely opens the spouts (26, 50). The spout further comprises an actuation device configured to control the lid (36) from the closed position to the intermediate position when the spout rotates around the rotation axis (G) of the control ring (35), The actuation device includes at least one cam element (41) connected to the base frame (4), and at least one counter cam element (42) connected to the lid (36) and configured to interact with the cam element (41) to apply force to the lid (36) when the control ring (35) is used in part of the rotation to move the lid (36) from the closed position to the intermediate position. Spout (3, 3').

2. The base frame (4) is A connecting base (11) connects the spout (3) to the package (2), The internal space (13) is defined, and the collar (12) is connected to the connecting base (11), The spout according to claim 1, comprising the features described above.

3. The cam element (41) is integrated with the outer surface (15) of the collar (12). The spout according to claim 2.

4. The connecting base (11) has an opening, and the collar (12) surrounds the opening, so that when in use, the designated pouring opening area of ​​the package (2) bursts open, and a fluid connection is established between the inside of the package (2) and the internal space (13) with the spout (3) fitted into the package (2). The spout according to claim 2 or 3.

5. At least a portion of the connecting base (11) has a substantially plate-like structure. The spout according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

6. The cam element (41) and the counter cam element (42) are positioned such that, starting from a first determined angular position of the control ring (35), the cam element (41) and the counter cam element (42) engage with each other such that, as the control ring (35) rotates further, the counter cam element (42) advances along the cam surface of the cam element (41). A spout according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. Including two cam elements (41) and two corresponding counter cam elements (42), A spout according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The interaction member (30) protrudes from the lid (36), A spout according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The base frame (4) includes a collar (12) that defines the boundary of the internal space (13), The spout according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the opening assembly (5) is positioned within the internal space (13) and is in at least partial contact with the inner surface (14) of the collar (12).

10. The aforementioned collar (12) extends along the longitudinal axis (B), The cutter (16) is rotatable about a central axis (C) parallel to the longitudinal axis (B), and is configured to move toward the designated pouring opening area along a direction (D) parallel to the central axis (C) and the longitudinal axis (B). The spout according to claim 9.

11. The cutter (16) is ring-shaped. A spout according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. During the control of the opening assembly (5) between the stop configuration and the operation configuration, the cutter (16) is configured to rotate and translate. A spout according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The control device includes a group of cams configured to guide the movement of the cutter (16) from the stop position to the operating position. The cam group comprises a cam profile (20) and at least one guide element (21), and the cam profile (20) and the guide element (21) are configured to work together to guide the cutter (16) during movement between the stop position and the operating position. A spout according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The cam profile (20) is connected to the cutter (16), and the guide element (21) is connected to the base frame (4). The spout according to claim 13.

15. A package-spout assembly (1) comprising a sealed package (2) filled with an injectable product including a designated spout area, and a spout (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 fitted around the designated spout area.

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