Closure means

Abstract

The present invention relates to a closing means for closing an opening of a container, wherein the closing means comprises: a) a lid assembly comprising: - a lid cover configured to provide a lower plate connected to the upper plate via an upper plate and a wall between them, wherein the upper plate comprises at least one hinge member; - at least one wing member comprising a handling portion, a flipping portion, and a stopper portion, pivotally connected to the lid cover at the hinge member and movable between a first position in which the stopper portion is separated from the upper plate of the lid cover and a second position in which the stopper portion engages with the upper plate of the lid cover and the upward movement of the wing member relative to the lid cover is restricted; and b) a sealing element fitted and fitted around the wall of the lid cover, wherein in a first configuration in which the container is closed by the closing means, the closing means is automatically moved upward as the wing member moves from the first position to the second position.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a new design of a closing means and a container. The present invention also relates to a new method of channeling gas while sealing the container with said closing means and / or while unsealing the container sealed with said closing means. Background Technology

[0002] In today's rapidly changing world, the demand for innovative and efficient packaging solutions is higher than ever. Consumers expect their food and beverage products to remain fresh, flavorful, and safe even after repeated use. Many conventional container designs lack efficient sealing mechanisms. These seals may fail to create a tight seal or effectively expel air, leaving air pockets inside the container. This can result in reduced product freshness and quality. In certain cases, container designs may not prioritize user experience during the closing process. Such closing mechanisms may be difficult to operate or require excessive force, making it difficult for users to effectively expel air. This can lead to frustration and suboptimal sealing results. Furthermore, conventional containers are designed to provide separate closing and gas exchange means, which can cause inconvenience to users. When these means are separate and require distinct operations, they can introduce additional steps and complexity during the closing process, potentially leading to user frustration. The problem to be solved

[0003] The present invention aims to solve these problems by providing an improved sealing mechanism and integrating the closing and gas communication means into a single operation, thereby improving product freshness, quality, and user convenience. Alternatively, the present invention provides an alternative to at least the public. means of solving the problem

[0004] A first aspect of the present invention relates to a closing means for closing an opening of a container, wherein the closing means comprises a) a lid assembly and b) a sealing element, wherein the lid assembly comprises a lid cover and at least one wing member, wherein the lid cover is configured to provide an upper plate and a lower plate connected to the upper plate through a standing wall between them, and wherein the upper plate is provided with at least one hinge member, and the wing member comprises a handling portion, a flipping portion, and a stopper portion, wherein the wing member is pivotally connected to the lid cover at the hinge member and is movable between a first position in which the stopper portion is separated from the upper plate of the lid cover and a second position in which the stopper portion engages with the upper plate of the lid cover and the upward movement of the wing member relative to the lid cover is restricted, and wherein the sealing element is fitted around the standing wall of the lid cover, and the container is closed by the closing means In the first closing configuration, the closing means is characterized by automatically moving upward as the wing member moves from the first position to the second position.

[0005] In some embodiments, at the second position, the stopper portion of the wing member engages with the upper plate of the lid cover.

[0006] In some embodiments, at the second position, the stopper portion of the wing member engages with the upper plate of the lid cover, wherein the angle between the flipping portion and the lid cover does not exceed 90 degrees.

[0007] In some embodiments, in a second configuration in which the closing means is assembled to the container but the container is not yet sealed, the closing means is characterized by automatically moving downward as the wing member moves from the second position to the first position. Preferably, the transition from the second state to the first state can be actuated by pushing the closing means downward. Preferably, the sealing element is received in the container after the container is sealed by the closing means.

[0008] In some embodiments, when two wing members are provided on the lid cover, in the first configuration, the wing members are moved from the first position to the second position so that the closing means automatically moves vertically upward.

[0009] In some embodiments, the handling portion is provided with at least one locking member; and the container has a perimeter wall having a first edge connected to the bottom and a second edge defining the open-top of the container, wherein the second edge is configured to engage with the locking member.

[0010] Preferably, the locking member is selected from an inwardly protruding projection and / or ridge for interacting with the second edge of the container.

[0011] In some embodiments, the lid cover is provided with a toothed member, characterized in that the interaction between the toothed member and the flipping portion of the wing member provides a locking effect.

[0012] Preferably, in the first configuration, the tooth member is covered by at least the flipping part; and in the second configuration, the interaction between the tooth member and the flipping part is free.

[0013] In some embodiments, the container has a perimeter wall having a first edge connected to the bottom and a second edge defining the open-top portion of the container, wherein in the first configuration, the engagement between the flipping portion of the wing member and the second edge of the container is characterized as surface contact. Preferably, in the second configuration, the engagement between the flipping portion of the wing member and the second edge of the container is characterized as line contact or point contact.

[0014] A second aspect of the present invention relates to a new design of the closing means described in the first aspect.

[0015] The present invention has additional aspects relating to a lid assembly, a lid cover, a wing member, a gas communication means, and a sealing element used in the closing means of the first and / or second aspects. The design of these elements serves the important purpose of efficiently removing air from a container before sealing. This design ensures that any excess air is effectively expelled when the lid assembly closes the container. By removing air from the container, the sealing element helps create a sealed environment inside, which is particularly advantageous for preserving the freshness and quality of the contents of the container. This innovative sealing element design improves the sealing process and contributes to the overall effect of the seal. In addition to the sealing element and the gas communication means, the design of the wing member plays a crucial role in ensuring that the lid assembly remains securely attached to the container after closing. The primary purpose of this design improvement is to prevent any accidental detachment or separation of the lid assembly from the container. The new design of the lid cover plays a crucial role in allowing air to be expelled from the container through the gas communication means provided within the lid cover when the lid assembly is closed over the container. When the lid assembly is opened from the container, air will enter the container through the gas communication means. The new design of the wing member plays an important role in allowing air to be discharged from the container through the gas communication means provided within the wing member when the lid assembly is closed over the container. When the lid assembly is opened from the container, air will enter the container through the gas communication means. The new design of the sealing element, the lid cover, and the wing member may be implemented independently or in any combination. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0016] Now, several embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of a closing means sealed on a container. Figure 2 shows an exploded view of the container of Figure 1. FIGS. 3a to 3e show drawings of the lid cover from various perspectives. FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the first embodiment of the closing means. FIGS. 5a to 5e show the wing member from different perspectives. FIGS. 6a to 6d show the sealing element from different perspectives. FIGS. 7(a) to 7(c) show the process of assembling the sealing element to the lid cover from different perspectives. FIG. 8a is a schematic diagram showing how the closing means is sealed to the container. FIG. 8b shows the closure means in a sealed state. FIG. 8c is a schematic diagram showing how the locking mechanism is opened. FIGS. 8d(1) to FIGS. 8d(6) are schematic diagrams showing different containers and the operation of a second type of wing member. FIGS. 8e(1) to FIGS. 8e(6) are schematic diagrams showing different containers and the operation of a third type of wing member. FIGS. 8f(1) to FIGS. 8f(6) are schematic diagrams showing different containers and the operation of a fourth type of wing member. FIGS. 8g (1) to FIGS. 8g (6) are schematic diagrams showing different containers and the operation of a fifth type of wing member. FIGS. 9(a) to 9(c) show the locked state of the prototype of the first embodiment. FIGS. 10(a) to 10(c) show the deformation of the sealing element during compression. FIGS. 11(a) to 11(d) show deformation of the skirt of the sealing element when the closing means is in use. FIG. 12a shows a second embodiment of the closing means. FIGS. 12b and FIGS. 12c show a second embodiment of the closing means from different perspectives. FIG. 13 shows a lid assembly, sealing element, and container of a second embodiment. FIG. 14 shows an exploded view of the lid assembly, sealing element, and container of the second embodiment. FIGS. 15(a) to 15(e) show a second embodiment of a wing member. FIGS. 16(a) to 16(d) show a second embodiment of a lid cover. FIGS. 17(a) and FIGS. 17(b) show the assembly between the first wing member and the lid cover of the second embodiment. FIGS. 18(a) to 18(c) show wing members in different sealed states. FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing how gas flows through the gas communication means while the container is closed by the closing means. FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram showing how gas flows through the gas communication means while opening the container closed by the closing means. FIG. 21 shows a third embodiment of a closing means sealed in a container. FIGS. 22(a) and FIGS. 22(b) show a third embodiment of the closing means from different perspectives. FIG. 23 shows a third embodiment of a lid cover. FIGS. 24(a) to 24(c) illustrate a gas valve from different perspectives. FIG. 25 shows a fourth embodiment of a closing means sealed in a container. FIG. 26 shows an exploded view of a fourth embodiment of a lid assembly. FIGS. 27(a) to 27(c) show the seal for the closing means of the fourth embodiment from different perspectives. FIG. 28 shows a fourth embodiment of a lid cover with cut edges in more detail. FIG. 29 shows a fourth embodiment of a lid cover with cut edges in more detail. FIG. 30 shows a fifth embodiment of a closing means sealed in a container. FIG. 31 shows a sixth embodiment of a closing means sealed in a container. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0017] The present invention is now presented by way of example with reference to the drawings. Objects, features, and aspects of the present disclosure are disclosed in or become apparent from the following description. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the following description is merely an explanation of exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit the broader aspects of the present disclosure. Such broader aspects are embodied in exemplary configurations.

[0018] Unless otherwise defined, technical or scientific terms used in the embodiments of the present invention will have the meaning commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. The expressions “first,” “second,” and similar expressions used in the embodiments of the present invention do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are used merely to distinguish different components. Terms indicating direction, such as “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “top,” and “bottom,” and similar terms, or similar terms, are described merely for the sake of ease of understanding of the exemplary relative positional relationships illustrated in the drawings. This does not limit the components disclosed in the present invention to following only these specific relative positional relationships. “Connection or similar,” “mounting or similar,” “fixing or similar,” or “assembly or similar” are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, whether direct or indirect.

[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates a sealed container having a first embodiment of a sealing means (100) sealed in a first embodiment of a container (300). FIG. 2 illustrates that the sealing means (100) comprises a first embodiment of a lid assembly having a lid cover (102) and a pair of wing members (104A, 104B); said lid assembly is coupled with a sealing element (106). In other words, the assembly between the lid cover (102) and the pair of wing members (104A, 104B) defines the first embodiment of said lid assembly. It should be noted that said sealing means of the present invention may operate with only one wing member, three wing members, or four wing members.

[0020] FIGS. 3a through 3e illustrate the lid cover (102) from different perspectives, wherein FIG. 3a is a planar perspective view, FIG. 3b is a first side view, FIG. 3c is a bottom view, FIG. 3d is a bottom perspective view, and FIG. 3e is a second side view. As illustrated in FIGS. 3a and 3b, the lid cover (102) is configured to provide an upper plate (102A) and a lower plate (102B) connected to the upper plate (102A) through the erection walls (102AB). In some embodiments, the size of the lower plate (102B) is smaller than the size of the upper plate (102A), and the lower plate (102B) extends beyond the erection walls (102AB) so that a groove (102C) is formed between the upper plate (102A) and the lower plate (102B). Preferably, the closing means of the present invention is suitable for containers that operate with a sealing portion received inside the container while being sealed. FIG. 3c shows that a plurality of toothed members (102D) are provided in an area around the perimeter of the lid cover (102) and a plurality of hinge members (102E) are also provided. Advantageously, the hinge members (102E) are positioned adjacent to the toothed members (102D). More advantageously, the toothed members (102D) are positioned between the hinge members (102E) as shown in FIG. 3c. The lid cover (102) is additionally provided with a plurality of nodes (102F) around the perimeter of the bottom plate (102B).

[0021] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the assembly between the first wing member (104A) and the lid cover (102). The first wing member (104A) includes a notch (104A-1) at the edge of the wing member (104A), a handling portion (104A-2), a flipping portion (104A-3) having a cut-out (104A-4), and a stopper portion (104A-5). The notch (104A-1) engages with the hinge member (102E) of the lid cover (102), allowing the wing member (104A) to pivot relative to the hinge member (102E). It will be understood that the wing member (104A) can be flipped upward or downward due to the engagement between the notch (104A-1) and the hinge member (102E).

[0022] FIG. 5 illustrates the wing member (104A) from different perspectives, where FIG. 5a is a first perspective view, FIG. 5b is a second perspective view viewed from direction B indicated in FIG. 5a, FIG. 5c is a plan view viewed from direction C indicated in FIG. 5a, FIG. 5d is a front view viewed from direction D indicated in FIG. 5b, and FIG. 5e is a side view viewed from direction E indicated in FIG. 5a. As illustrated in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5a through FIG. 5e, the handling portion (104A-2) is designed in an S-shape to provide a sinking portion (104A-6) and a raised portion (104A-8), respectively, facing the wall of the container (300). Additionally, the handling portion (104A-2) is likewise designed to provide a pair of inner protrusions (104A-7) facing the wall of the container (300). FIG. 5e shows that a pair of tabs (104A-9) adjacent to the protrusion (104A-7) are provided on the inner side of the handling portion (104A-2).

[0023] FIGS. 6a through 6d illustrate the sealing element (106) from different perspectives, wherein FIG. 6a is a planar perspective view, FIG. 6b is a bottom perspective view, and FIGS. 6c and 6d are side views. FIG. 6a shows that the sealing element (106) is provided with a skirt (106A) that is exposed outwardly around the perimeter of the sealing element (106). Preferably, the skirt (106A) is located at the lower edge of the sealing element (106). In these drawings, the sealing element (106) is rectangular in shape, and the skirt (106A) on the longer side of the rectangular shape is shaped into a crest (106B) extending from the lower edge to the upper edge of the sealing element (106), as shown in FIG. 6c. The upper edge of the sealing element (106) is closer to the lid cover (102) within the lid assembly, whereas the lower edge of the sealing element (106) is closer to the container (300) when the lid assembly is assembled to the container (300). FIG. 6b shows that a plurality of studs extending downward from the lower edge of the sealing element (106) are provided. Two studs (106C) are located close to the crest (106B), and four studs (106D) are located at each corner of the rectangular shape of the sealing element (106). Preferably, as shown in FIG. 6d, the studs (106C) are longer than the studs (106D).

[0024] FIGS. 7(a) to 7(c) show the sealing element (106) being assembled to the lid cover (102) by fitting the sealing element (106) around the groove (102C) of the lid cover (102). The studs (106C, 106D) of the sealing element (106) are sized and shaped to fit into the nodes (102G, 102F) of the lid cover (102), respectively.

[0025] FIG. 8a shows the state in which the closing means (100) is assembled to the container (300). In the state disclosed in FIG. 8a, because the long edge of the upper plate (102A) of the lid cover (102) hinders the upward pivot rotational movement of the stopper portion (104A-5) of the wing member (104A), the wing member (104A) is no longer allowed to pivot upward relative to the hinge member (102E). When the closing means (100) disclosed in FIG. 8a is further pressed downward by a force of direction (F1), the closing means (100) will be fixed to the container (300) as shown in FIG. 8c. Advantageously, the design of the sinking portion (104A-6) and the raised portion (104A-8) of the wing member (104A) assists in transmitting a downward force (indicated by arrow F1 in FIG. 8a) applied by a user to a horizontal force (indicated by arrow F2 in FIG. 8a) acting on the wing member (104A). In terms of operation, if a user can apply a pushing force (F2) on the wing member (104A), due to the design of the wing member, the closing means (100) can consequently be automatically lowered or pushed down by the downward force (F1). The design of the sinking portion (104A-6) and the raised portion (104A-8) of the wing member (104A) assists in transmitting the horizontal force (F2) to the downward force (F1), or vice versa. It will be understood that the operation of the wing member of the present invention provides a levering effect for operabably opening and closing the closing means of the present invention. Advantageously, the angle between the flipping part (104A-3) and the lid cover (102) (indicated as "An" in FIG. 8a) does not exceed 90 degrees.

[0026] In FIG. 8b, the protrusion (104A-7) engages with the catch portion (302) of the container (300), and the flipping portion (104A-3) rests on the edge (304) of the container (300). In FIG. 8b, the flipping portion (104A-3) and the edge (304) of the container (300) make surface contact, whereas in FIG. 8a, the flipping portion (104A-3) and the edge (304) of the container (300) make line contact or point contact. The interaction between the catch portion (302) and the protrusion (104A-7) is understood to form a locking mechanism that prevents the closing means (100) from detaching from the container (300) after the closing means (100) has closed the container (300). Additionally, the interaction between the locking portion (302) and the raised portion (104A-8) will be understood to form another locking mechanism to prevent the closing means (100) from disengaging from the container (300) after the closing means (100) has closed the container (300). It should be noted that the design of the wing member (104A) is merely an example to illustrate the locking mechanism and should not be interpreted as the sole means of operating the crest (106B) of the sealing element (106), nor as the sole means of operating the closing means of the present invention. Advantageously, experimental results show that the closing means made of plastic material works well with the sealing element (106). Suitable interactions for the locking mechanism may be snapping, interlocking, magnetic interaction between components, etc.

[0027] FIG. 8c shows how the closing means (100) is opened. As illustrated in FIG. 8c, an outward pulling force (F3) is applied. By doing so, the interaction between the locking portion (302) and the ridge (104A-8), and the interaction between the locking portion (302) and the protrusion (104A-7) will consequently be released. Under the pulling force (F3), the wing member (104A) pivots upward around the lid cover, and accordingly, the flipping portion (104A-3) acts against the edge (304) of the container (300), thereby providing a lever effect in terms of the flipping portion (104A-3) as a beam, point "P" as a hinge or fulcrum in FIG. 8a and FIG. 8c, F3 as an effort point, and the lid cover as a load. Due to the pulling force (F3) above, the closing means of FIG. 8c will automatically move upward by the lift force (F4) resulting from the lever effect. From the above description, it can be understood that when a user opens the closing means of the present invention from the sealed container, the bottom of the container may remain on the table. To facilitate the opening of the closing means, the user does not need to tilt the sealed container at a certain angle. In an embodiment in which the closing means comprises two wing members, the closing means may be operated to automatically move vertically up and down relative to the open-top portion of the container when sealing and when unsealing, respectively.

[0028] Regarding the "levering effect" mentioned above, it is realized by a levering system defined by the cooperative action between the handling portion (104A-2), the flipping portion (104A-3), and the edge (304) of the container (300), and the pivotable rotatable movement between the wing member (104A) and the lid cover, particularly at the hinge member (102E). It will be understood that the levering system of the present invention is not achieved only by the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 8c. FIGS. 8d(1)-(6) are schematic diagrams showing the operation of a second type of wing member for different containers, wherein FIGS. 8d(1)-(3) shows a configuration in which the closing means is sealed to the container, and FIGS. 8d(4)-(6) shows a configuration in which the closing means is open. FIGS. 8e(1)-(6) are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of a third type of wing member for different containers, wherein FIGS. 8e(1)-(3) shows a configuration in which the closing means is sealed to the container and FIGS. 8e(4)-(6) shows a configuration in which the closing means is open. FIGS. 8f(1)-(6) are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of a fourth type of wing member for different containers, wherein FIGS. 8f(1)-(3) shows a configuration in which the closing means is sealed to the container and FIGS. 8f(4)-(6) shows a configuration in which the closing means is open. FIGS. 8g(1)-(6) are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of a fifth type of wing member for different containers, wherein FIGS. 8g(1)-(3) shows a configuration in which the closing means is sealed to the container and FIGS. 8g(4)-(6) shows a configuration in which the closing means is open. These drawings show that the lever system of the present invention operates on different types of containers having second edges of various shapes. Specifically, the second edge of the container in FIG. 8d (1), FIG. 8e (1), FIG. 8f (1) and FIG. 8g (1) is rolled outward to provide a surface (304), and then the edge is further rolled to form a catch (302).The second edge of the container in FIG. 8d (2), FIG. 8e (2), FIG. 8f (2) and FIG. 8g (2) is configured to be rolled outward to provide a surface (304-2). The second edge of the container in FIG. 8d (3), FIG. 8e (3), FIG. 8f (3) and FIG. 8g (3) is configured as a free edge (304-3). It should be noted that the aforementioned lever system still operates regardless of whether a locking element is provided on the wing member.

[0029] The closing process of the closing means (100) can be classified into three stages. For clarity, the prototypes of FIGS. 9(a) through 9(c) may be referenced. FIGS. 9(a) shows a configuration in which the closing means (100) is positioned on the container (300). First, the lower plate (102B) of the lid cover (102) is aligned with the edge (304) of the container (300) to form a substantially flat surface. The flipping portion (104A-3) of the lid cover rests on the edge (304) of the container, where there is little to no contact between the bottom surface of the flipping portion and the edge of the container. In some embodiments, the flipping portion (104A-3) is floating on the edge (304) of the container (300). Here, "floating" means that a significant portion or the entire bottom surface of the flipping portion (104A-3) does not come into contact with the edge of the container. Additionally, the flipping portion (104A-3) remains separated from the toothed member (102D), and the toothed member is positioned above it. This configuration indicates that the closing means (100) is in an unsealed state. In particular, the sealing element (106) plays an important role even in this state. Specifically, the skirt (106A) of the sealing element is in close contact with the inner edge of the container cavity to ensure a snug fit. Additionally, the skirt (106A) is dimensioned to fit within the narrow gap between the cavity edge and the bottom plate (102B). To describe the state of the sealing element (106) in more detail, FIGS. 10(a) and FIGS. 11(a) show the location of the crest (106B), and FIGS. 10(a) through FIGS. 10(c) focus only on the sealing element (106) for brevity. By combining these details, the configuration of the lid assembly and the role of the sealing element shown in FIG. 9(a) can be fully understood.When a downward force is applied to the closing means (100) illustrated in FIG. 9(a), the lower plate (102B) of the lid cover descends slightly into the cavity of the container (300). As a result, the lower plate (102B) is positioned below the edge (304) of the container (300), as shown in FIG. 9(b). The flipping portion (104A-3) of the wing member contacts (adjacently) and is in close contact with the toothed member (102D), and the bottom surface of the flipping portion (104A-3) engages with the edge (304) of the container (300). This arrangement ensures close alignment between the flipping portion (104A-3) and the toothed member (102D). The closing means (100) is referred to as being in a quasi-sealed state. "Semi-sealed" means a state similar to or nearly identical to a sealed state, but may not be completely stable or permanent because the protrusion (104A-7) does not engage with the catch (302) of the container (300). The user can open the closing means (100) without releasing the locking mechanism. The state of the sealing element (106), in particular the position of the crest (106B), is disclosed in FIG. 10(b). During the transition from FIG. 9(a) to FIG. 9(b), most of the air inside the container (300) is discharged through the hole formed between the crest (106B) of the sealing element and the edge (304) of the container. When a downward force is further applied to the closing means (100) in FIG. 9(b), additional changes occur. The lower plate (102B) of the lid cover is recessed slightly deeper into the container (300) and is positioned much lower than the edge (304). At the same time, the flipping portion (104A-3) covers at least partially the toothed member (102D) to prevent the wing member (104A) from pivoting upward. This configuration indicates that the closing means (100) is now sealed."Sealing" means that the contents of the container (300) are effectively isolated from the surrounding atmosphere. The user can open the closing means (100) by releasing the locking mechanism. In particular, the state of the sealing element (106), specifically the crest (106B), is illustrated in FIG. 10(c), which visually demonstrates the position and sealing effect in the closing means (100). It will be understood that the interaction between the flipping part (104A-3) and the toothed member (102D) forms another locking mechanism that prevents the closing means (100) from detaching from the container (300) after the closing means (100) has closed or sealed the container (300). Additionally, it will be understood that gas discharge from the container is maximized when the flipping part (104A-3) covers at least partially the toothed member (102D). The toothed member covered by the flipping part provides a locking effect that prevents the closing means from moving upward after sealing due to an increase in internal pressure caused by spoilage gas generated from food stored inside the container.

[0030] FIGS. 11(a) through 11(d) illustrate the gradual change in the shape of the crest (106B) of the sealing element (106) within the prototype. In FIG. 11(a), the lid cover (102) is in an unsealed state, indicating that it is not yet completely closed. FIGS. 11(c) and 11(d) illustrate the lid cover (102) being pushed further downward until it reaches the sealed configuration of FIG. 11(d). FIGS. 11(b) and 11(c) illustrate a "quasi-sealed" state, which is an intermediate stage between the unsealed state and the sealed state of the lid cover (102). In particular, FIG. 11(c) illustrates an important aspect of the crest (106B) being deformed as the lid cover (102) moves downward. Due to this modification, two apertures (106B1) are formed between the skirt (106A) of the crest (106B) and the edge (304) of the container. These apertures serve the important purpose of facilitating the release of gas from inside the container while simultaneously providing a substantial seal on the contents stored inside from the surrounding atmosphere. When the lid cover (102) is sealed, it may be observed that only a portion of the skirt (106A) of the crest (106B) protrudes slightly outward or is exposed. This observation demonstrates the sealing effect of the closing means, where the protrusion indicates the secure sealing and isolation of the contents of the container.

[0031] Due to the sealing effect described above, even though the three locking mechanisms discussed above—namely, the locking mechanism formed by the interaction between the catch (302) and the protrusion (104A-7), another locking mechanism formed by the interaction between the catch (302) and the protrusion (104A-8), and the interaction between the flipping part (104A-3) and the toothed member (102D)—are not provided in the closing means, the closing means will still be fixed after being sealed in the container because the pressure inside the container is lower than atmospheric pressure. The atmospheric pressure will apply a downward force to the lid cover. Therefore, in the examples of FIG. 8d (3), FIG. 8e (1)-(6), FIG. 8f (1)-(6) and FIG. 8g (1)-(6), even though the locking mechanism is not provided in these figures, the closing means in these examples will not be easily opened after being sealed in the container.

[0032] FIG. 12a illustrates a second embodiment of the closing means (500) together with the container (300). FIG. 12b and FIG. 12c illustrate the closing means (500) in different viewpoints, wherein the closing means (500) is provided with a first wing member (504A) and a second wing member (504B). FIG. 13 clearly illustrates the container (300), the lid cover (502), the first wing member (504A), and the sealing element (106). The sealing element of FIG. 13 is identical to the sealing element (106) of the first embodiment. Thus, the second embodiment of the closing means (500) is distinguished from the first embodiment of the closing means (100) in that the second embodiment of its lid assembly is different from the first embodiment of the lid assembly. For brevity, only the differences between the first and second embodiments of the lid assembly will be described in detail below. In a second embodiment of the lid assembly of the present invention, a lid cover (502), a pair of wing members (504A, 504B), and a gas communication means are provided. The lid cover (502) and the wing members (504A, 504B) represent a second embodiment of the lid cover and wing members of the present invention. FIG. 14 shows an exploded view of the closing means (500) including the lid assembly and the sealing element.

[0033] FIGS. 15(a) through 15(e) illustrate a second embodiment of the first wing member (504A). The shape of the first wing member (504A) is substantially the same as the shape of the first wing member (104A), but differs in that it has a hole (504A-10) formed in the central region of the flipping portion (504A-3). As shown in FIG. 15(c), the hole (504A-10) is a through hole. In some embodiments, the hole (504A-10) may operate with a gas valve. In the second embodiment of the present invention, the hole (504A-10), the gas valve, and the gas communication member (514) define a gas communication means for the second embodiment of the lid assembly.

[0034] FIGS. 16(a) through 16(d) illustrate a lid cover (502), which is configured to provide a lower plate (502B) connected to the upper plate (502A) through an upper plate (502A) and an erection wall (502AB), wherein the erection wall (502AB) defines a groove (502C) between them. The structure of the lid cover (502) is substantially the same as the structure of the lid cover (102), but differs in that, as shown in FIG. 16(d), the lid cover (502) is provided with a gas communication member (514) defined by a gas channel between a first opening (506) and a second opening (508). The first opening (506) is located on the upper plate (502A), and the second opening is located on the erection wall (502AB). As can be seen from FIG. 16(a), two gas communication members (514) are provided. The number of disclosed gas communication members is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. In the invention, "gas channel" by definition refers to a channel that enables fluid communication between the internal space of a container and the atmosphere, and is not limited to the features described herein.

[0035] FIGS. 17a and 17b illustrate the assembly between the first wing member (504A) and the lid cover (502), with some areas cut off for illustrative purposes. As illustrated, the first opening (506) is adjacent to the hole (504A-10). In FIGS. 17a and 17b, fluid communication exists between the hole (504A-10) and the gas channel formed by the communication between the first and second openings (506, 508). However, it will be understood that when the closing means of the second embodiment is used, a gas valve will be installed within the hole (504A-10). FIGS. 18(a) through 18(c) show the closing means (500) in a sealed state ( FIG. 18(a)), a semi-sealed state ( FIG. 18(b)), and an unsealed state ( FIG. 18(c)). For brevity, the gas valve that must be mounted within the hole (504A-10) when the closing means (500) is used is not shown.

[0036] FIG. 19 illustrates the gas flow when the closing means (500) is in a state of being sealed to the container. As can be observed from the drawing, the protrusion (504A-7) engages with the catch (302) of the container (300). Additionally, the arrows in FIG. 19 show that gas or pressure from inside the container is discharged through the gas valve (600) mounted within the hole (504A-10). It will be understood that when maximum air is discharged from the container, the hole (506) is compressed in close contact with the gas valve (600). Meanwhile, as previously described, the flipping portion of the wing member covers at least partially the toothed member of the lid cover to prevent the lid cover from being pushed back up. FIG. 20 illustrates the gas flow at the point when the closing means (500) intends to release the seal of the container, that is, during the process of opening the closing means. The arrows in FIG. 20 indicate how atmospheric gas proceeds into the container through the gas valve (600). The gas communication means disclosed in FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 includes a gas channel member (514), a hole (504A-10), and a gas valve (600). The lid assembly of the second embodiment may work well with the sealing element (106) or any conventional sealing element. When the lid assembly of the second embodiment works with the sealing element (106), a deformation of the crest (106B) of the sealing element provides a first passage for discharging gas from the container as described above, and the gas communication member provides a second passage for discharging gas from inside the container. Additionally, the first passage and the second passage may operate independently. Advantageously, experimental results show that the closing means of the second embodiment works well with containers made of plastic, glass, or metal.

[0037] FIG. 21 illustrates a third embodiment of a closing means (700) sealed on a container (300). For brevity, only the differences between the previous embodiments and the closing means of the third embodiment will be described in detail below. FIG. 22(a) and FIG. 22(b) illustrate the closing means (700) viewed from different angles. The sealing element of the third embodiment is identical to the sealing element (106) of the first embodiment. As can be observed, the closing means (700) comprises a lid assembly and a sealing element, the lid assembly comprising a lid cover (702), a pair of wing members (104A, 104B), and a gas communication means having a gas valve (714). Preferably, at least a portion of the gas valve (714) is made of a polymer material and / or an elastic material.

[0038] FIG. 23 shows a perspective view of the lid cover (702) and shows that a concave area (702J) is provided on its upper surface. Within the concave area, there is a hole (702K) in the form of a through hole. The hole (702K) is sized to accommodate the gas valve (714) in a tight fit. Specifically, the gas valve can be operably opened and closed to control the air flowing into or out of the container through the gas valve (714). The gas valve (714) and the hole (702K) together form a means of gas communication in this embodiment. FIG. 24(a) through FIG. 24(c) clearly show the gas valve (714) from different angles. The illustration of the gas valve (714) disclosed in FIG. 24(a) through FIG. 24(c) is merely illustrative for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0039] In the third embodiment above, when the user wishes to seal the container with the closing means (700), the gas valve is first opened. Then, the user closes the container by pushing the lid cover (702) downward. During this process, the air inside the container will be discharged through the gas valve (714). As described above, after the closing means is locked, the user can close the gas valve (714). When the user wishes to open the sealed container, the gas valve (714) is first opened, and the wing members are lifted upward to release the container from the sealed state to the unsealed state.

[0040] It will be understood that the closing means of the third embodiment may work well with the sealing element (106) or any conventional sealing element. When the closing means of the third embodiment works with the sealing element (106), a deformation of the crest (106B) of the sealing element provides a first passage for discharging gas from inside the container as described above, and the gas communication means defined by the gas valve (714) and the hole (702K) provides a second passage for discharging gas from inside the container. Additionally, it will be understood that the first passage and the second passage may operate independently. Advantageously, according to experimental results, the closing means of the third embodiment works well with containers made of plastic, glass, or metal.

[0041] FIGS. 25 to 28 show a fourth embodiment of the closing means (900) of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 25 shows the closure means (900) sealed in a container (300). For brevity, only the differences between the previous embodiments and the fourth embodiment of the closure means will be described in detail below. As can be seen, the closure means (900) comprises a lid assembly and a sealing element, the lid assembly comprising a lid cover (902), a pair of wing members (904A, 904B), and a gas communication means as described above. The closure means (900) further comprises an access means comprising a pair of removable seals (914A, 914B). The access means will be described in detail below. The sealing element of FIG. 25 is the same as that utilized in the previous drawings. Of course, the closure means (900) may use any conventional sealing element available on the market.

[0043] FIG. 26 shows an exploded view of a fourth embodiment of the lid assembly. Each long edge of the lid cover (902) is provided with a flange region (902J) having a first opening (906) and a pair of holes (908A, 908B) respectively located on both sides of the flange region (902J).

[0044] FIG. 27 illustrates the seal (914A) from different perspectives. FIG. 27(a) is a front perspective view of the seal (914A), FIG. 27(b) is a bottom perspective view of the seal (914A), and FIG. 27(c) is a bottom perspective view of the seal (914A). Posts (914A-1, 914A-2) are disposed on the sides of the seal (914A), each sized to fit into a pair of holes (908A, 908B). The seal (914A) is provided with a concave area (914A-3) sized to be fitted into the flange area (902J). The concave area and the flange area are merely exemplary. In some embodiments, the flange area may be formed on the seal instead, that is, replacing the concave area. Likewise, the concave area may instead be provided in the lid cover, that is, replacing the flange area. In the concave area (914A-3), two holes (914A-4, 914A-5) for assembling the seal (914A) onto the lid cover (902) are present on its sides. FIGS. 28 and 29 illustrate the lid cover of the fourth embodiment in more detail, with the edges of the lid cover cut off. In the flange area (902J), it can be seen that two posts (908C, 908D) are formed therein. The two posts (908C, 908D) are sized to fit into the two holes (914A-4, 914A-5). The flange area (902J), the posts (908C, 908D), and the pair of holes (908A, 908B) are used to accommodate the seal (914A) and define an access means that allows a user to clean the first opening (906) and the gas communication member (defined within the gas channel of FIG. 16(d)) between the first opening (906) and the second opening (908).When the seal (914A) is disassembled / removed from the lid cover (902), the first opening (906) will be exposed to the outside. The access means disclosed in the fourth embodiment is merely exemplary, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that adaptive modifications can be made based thereon.

[0045] FIG. 30 illustrates a fifth embodiment of the closing means of the present invention. The fifth embodiment includes a lid cover (930) and a flange area (930J) covering the first opening. FIG. 30 also shows a cap (934) that is sized and shaped to be received within the flange area (930J). The wing member is provided with a cover (936) having a sized opening to receive the cap (934) in a tight fit. The cover (936) is pivotally rotatably or hingedly connected to the wing member so that the cover (936) can be positioned between a first position in which the cover (936) engages with the flange area (930J) and a second position in which the cover (936) does not engage with the flange area (930J). When the cover (936) is in the second position, the cap (934) is removed so that the first opening of the gas channel is exposed to the outside. It will be understood that the cover (936) is not limited to being provided only on the wing member. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 31 illustrating a sixth embodiment of the closing means of the present invention, the cover (936) may be provided on the lid cover (930) and the cap (934) is fitted tightly into the opening of the cover (936). The sixth embodiment shows a cover (946) pivotally or hingedly connected to the lid cover.

[0046] Considering the foregoing description, particularly the features of the closing means and the container of the present invention, when the closing means of the present invention is pushed downward, the gas inside the container will be discharged in an operating manner through the disclosed gas communication means. Conversely, when the closing means of the present invention is pulled upward, the atmospheric gas will proceed into the container through the disclosed gas communication means.

[0047] The foregoing description should not be interpreted as being limited only to the examples or drawings. Rather, it should be clearly understood that such variations and modifications are included within the scope of the disclosure of the invention. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be utilized in different embodiments to create another embodiment. Accordingly, this specification is intended to encompass such variations and modifications as being within the scope of their equivalents.

Claims

Claim 1 A closing means for closing an opening of a container, wherein the closing means comprises: a) a lid assembly comprising: - a lid cover configured to provide a lower plate connected to the upper plate through an upper plate and a wall between them, wherein the upper plate is provided with one or more hinge members; - one or more wing members comprising a handling portion, a flipping portion, and a stopper portion, wherein the wing member is pivotally connected to the lid cover at the hinge member and is movable between a first position in which the stopper portion is separated from the upper plate of the lid cover and a second position in which the stopper portion engages with the upper plate of the lid cover and the upward movement of the wing member relative to the lid cover is restricted; and b) a sealing element fitted around the wall of the lid cover, wherein in a first configuration in which the container is closed by the closing means, the closing means automatically moves upward as the wing member moves from the first position to the second position. Claim 2 A closing means according to claim 1, characterized in that, at the second position, the stopper portion of the wing member engages with the upper plate of the lid cover. Claim 3 A closing means according to claim 1, characterized in that, at the second position, the stopper portion of the wing member engages with the upper plate of the lid cover, and the angle between the flipping portion and the lid cover does not exceed 90 degrees. Claim 4 A closing means according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein in a second configuration in which the closing means is assembled to the container but the container is not yet sealed, the closing means automatically moves downward as the wing member moves from the second position to the first position. Claim 5 A closing means according to claim 4, characterized in that the transition from the second configuration to the first configuration can be operated by pushing the closing means downward. Claim 6 A closing means characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 3, when two wing members are provided on the lid cover, in the first configuration, when the wing members are moved from the first position to the second position, the closing means automatically moves vertically upward. Claim 7 In paragraph 4, the sealing element is characterized by being received in the container after the container is sealed by the closing means. Claim 8 A closing means according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the handling portion is provided with one or more locking members, and the container comprises a perimeter wall having a first edge connected to the bottom and a second edge defining an open-top portion of the container, wherein the second edge is configured to engage with the locking members. Claim 9 A closing means according to claim 8, wherein the locking member is selected from an inwardly protruding projection and / or a ridge for interacting with the second edge of the container. Claim 10 A closing means according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a toothed member is provided on the lid cover, and the interaction between the toothed member and the flipping portion of the wing member provides a locking effect. Claim 11 A closing means according to claim 10, wherein in the first configuration, the tooth member is partially or wholly covered by the flipping part; and in the second configuration, the interaction between the tooth member and the flipping part is not restricted. Claim 12 A closing means according to claim 4, wherein the container comprises a perimeter wall having a first edge connected to the bottom and a second edge defining the open-top portion of the container, and wherein, in the first configuration, the engagement between the flipping portion of the wing member and the second edge of the container is a surface contact. Claim 13 A closing means according to claim 12, characterized in that, in the second configuration above, the engagement between the flipping portion of the wing member and the second edge of the container is a line contact or a point contact.

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