Dispensing cap

Abstract

Dispensing cap comprising a body and a lid and a hinge, wherein the body comprises a spout (5) and a conduit (7), with an inner length L, wherein the conduit has an exit orifice with a diameter D, and wherein the ratio L:D is optimized for dispensing behavior in use and leakage reduction.

Description

[0001] DISPENSING CAP

[0002] The present invention relates to a dispensing cap. The invention further relates to a packaging assembly comprising a dispensing cap and a container, and to a method to provide the dispensing cap.

[0003] Background of the invention

[0004] Packaging assemblies comprising a container and a cap are well known to package various liquid and semi-liquid consumer products with various viscosities. Consumers have a variety of expectations of such an assembly. In the first place, the consumer product should be contained. But when used, it often is desired that the consumer product can be dispensed properly from the container, based on need. The cap, required to close the container, should not leak, and allow for proper dispensing, e.g. when the consumer squeezes the container. These requirements are mutually affecting each other, as easy dispensing, typically associated with a bigger opening area of the spout in the cap, is more prone to leakage during storage, whereas a narrower opening area increases the required dosing force which is typically not desired. In particular, these requirements can become challenging when the container is stored upside-down, for example in a container of the tottle-type, where the product is collecting and constantly present in the spout of the cap. Food products comprising water and / or oil may suffer from a phenomenon called syneresis, where liquid escapes the product structure and collects on top of or below the product. Such separated oil or water may leak more easily from the container via openings in the cap during storage. The problem is in particular imminent when products to be dispensed are non-Newtonian liquids, for example as is the case for sauces of the mayonnaise type, as their rheology comes with complications regarding leakage and stickiness to the wall of a container, hampering proper discharge.

[0005] To mitigate these shortcomings, many caps include a separate valve structure. Such a valve structure typically is an element that is mounted separately in the inside of the cap structure. The valve opens upon squeezing of the container, allowing product to pass, and closes when squeezing stops. In this way, leakage of product is prevented. Valves typically involve silicon elements.

[0006] With plastic piling up in the oceans and legislation being developed relating to sustainability in many jurisdictions, it becomes increasingly relevant to produce containers and caps prepared from material that can be recycled. It appears, that it is very hard to separate the valves from the rest of the cap material, in order not to pollute the recycling stream, rendering recyclability a problem. A need therefore was recognized for a cap that allows for proper dispensing of a liquid consumer product, especially of a non-Newtonian liquid consumer product, e.g. a mayonnaise-like sauce, which cap offers at least acceptable protection against leakage during storage e.g. in a container in the upside-down position, and wherein this especially is achieved independent of the presence of a valve, and preferably wherein the cap is a mono-material cap.

[0007] US 5,938,087 discloses a spurt-resistant spout for a dispensing structure including an internal tubular portion having a through bore connecting a dispensing orifice of the spout with the interior of the container and a surrounding wall portion surrounding the tubular portion.

[0008] Summary of the invention

[0009] Surprisingly, this challenge was met, at least to some extent, by a dispensing cap (1) according to the present invention, wherein the cap comprises:

[0010] • A body (2) and a lid (3), hingeably connected to each other via a hinge (4),

[0011] • wherein the body (2) comprises a spout (5) and a conduit (7), with an inner length L,

[0012] • wherein part of the conduit (7) is present at the outside of the spout and part extends at the inside of the spout,

[0013] • wherein the conduit has an exit orifice (8), with a diameter D1 , and an entrance orifice (18) with a diameter D2, and has a distance L1 perpendicularly extending from the exit orifice (8) to the spout-conduit junction (26) and a distance L2 perpendicularly extending from the spout-conduit junction (26) to the entrance orifice (18),

[0014] • wherein the ratio L1 :D1 is from 0.2 to 0.9, preferably from 0.3 to 0.9, more preferably from 0.5 to 0.9, even more preferably from 0.6 to 0.8, and wherein the ratio L2 / D2 is from 0.5 to 1.5, preferably from 0.5 to 1.2, even more preferably from 0.5 to 1 , even more preferably from 0.5 to 0.9 and most preferably from 0.6 to 0.8.

[0015] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a packaging assembly comprising the dispensing cap (1) according to the invention and a container.

[0016] In a third aspect, the invention relates to a method to prepare a dispensing cap according to the invention, the method comprising the steps of: a) Providing liquid polymer, preferably polypropylene, b) Providing a mold defining the shape of a dispensing cap (1) according to the invention, c) Injecting the polymer into the mould to form the dispensing cap (1) according to the invention using injection moulding, to result in a dispensing cap according to the invention. Drawings

[0017] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of the dispensing cap of the present invention in opened position.

[0018] Fig.2 shows a cross sectional side view of the dispensing cap of the present invention in opened position.

[0019] Fig. 3 shows a perspective front view of the dispensing cap of the invention with a cross sectional view of the body part (2).

[0020] Fig. 4 shows a cross sectional, enlarged view of the center of the lid part of the dispensing cap of the invention.

[0021] Fig. 5 shows a magnification of a cross section of the center of the spout (5) and lid part (3) of the dispensing cap in closed position.

[0022] Fig. 6 shows a packaging assembly according to the invention in the form of a tottle.

[0023] Fig. 7 Show a cross sectional view of the conduit of the cap, and indicates the dimensions to calculate the relevant length-width ratios according to the invention.

[0024] Fig. 8 shows the conduits of three caps tested in Example 2.

[0025] Detailed description of the invention

[0026] Dispensing cap

[0027] The present dispensing cap allows for easy discharge of product, while leakage of the product via the cap is minimized. This is realized in a cap that is preferably without the use of a valve. Valves typically involve the use of silicon, which negatively affects recycling of the plastic used for the cap. The dispensing cap comprises a body part (2), a lid part (3) and a hinge part (4), in this manner forming a ‘flip-top’ closure. The hinge preferably is a hinge of the ‘butterfly’ type, as known in the art. Accordingly, two positions are discriminated, the open position, wherein typically the lid part is not optimally closing-off the orifice (7), and the closed position, wherein typically the lid is closing-off the orifice (7) in the best achievable manner. It is desired, that the dispensing cap, including the body part, the hinge and the lid forms a one-piece dispensing cap, preferably the cap is from one material. Accordingly, it is desired, that the dispensing cap, including the body part, the hinge and the lid, is from the same material, forming a one-piece dispensing cap. This is typically provided for by using the process of injection moulding during the manufacturing process of the cap. Accordingly, the dispensing cap according to the invention preferably does not comprise a valve. In particular, it is preferred that the dispensing cap does not comprise a valve comprising silicon. The body part (2) comprises a spout (5) with a wall. The shape of the spout may be flat, like a horizontal plane when the cap is in its upright position, a dome, a pyramid, a cone or a truncated cone, even more preferably a frustrum of a cone, most preferably a right frustrum of a cone. Preferably a cone or truncated cone or frustrum of a cone and to achieve optimal results in terms of reduced leakage, especially when liquids like mustard, ketchup, or mayonnaise are to be dispensed, a truncated cone or frustrum of a cone is most preferred. The angle of the wall of the spout, such as in a cone shape, preferably ranges between 25 and 40 °, preferably between 30 and 35 °. It is believed, without willing to be bound to theory, that syneresis liquid expelled from the product to be dispensed is reduced in a spout with truncated cone or frustrum, in particular when a packaging assembly (container with dispensing cap) is used that is stored in upside-down position, like ‘tottles’. Liquid resulting from syneresis during storage is prone to escape via the cap if not hermetically closed off. In the situation that the spout (5) is in the form of a truncated cone, preferably a frustrum, a top platform (6) is preferably present. In general, when a platform (6) is present, the platform is oriented preferably horizontally when the cap is in its upright or downward position. The platform (6) is preferably oriented perpendicular to the midline of the conduit. A spout-conduit junction is preferably represented by a plane that is in the same plane as a horizontal platform (6), and typically perpendicular to the mid axis of the conduit.

[0028] A conduit (7) is located preferably centrally regarding the body part of the dispensing cap, preferably centrally regarding the spout (5), and when a platform (6) is present, preferably centrally in the platform (6). When the spout has the preferred shape of a cone or truncated cone, the cone shape of the spout helps guiding the product to be dispensed to the conduit, and its exit orifice (8).

[0029] The conduit (7) is preferably linear. It preferably has no angles. It is preferably symmetrical, more preferably symmetrical v.a.v. two perpendicular axes of symmetry, and it is most preferably circular symmetrical around the midline of the conduit, and the latter is most preferred in the case of a circular exit orifice (8). Preferably, the conduit does not comprise any protrusion at the inside of the conduit. The wall of the conduit is preferably straight, to form a conduit in the shape of e.g. a frustrum of a cone, preferably a right frustrum of a cone, in this way resulting in a conduit which is tapered towards the exit orifice. It preferably has an inner length L, that extends from the exit orifice (8) to the entrance orifice (18). This distance L is measured as the distance between the midpoints of the orifices. The length L is preferably of from 8,0 to 10,5 mm, more preferably of from 8,5 to 10,0 mm, and most preferably of from 9.0 to 9,5 mm. The conduit extends from the spout outwardly and also extends to the inside (product-facing) part of the cap, in this manner typically protruding through the spout for optimal result. This decreases the risk of leakage even further. Without willing to be bound by theory, the extension of the conduit at the inside of the cap requires more force from the consumer to discharge the liquid product while minimizing leakage and an optimal balance is to be found. Any liquid resulting from syneresis of the product will be less likely to find its way to the entrance orifice (18), reducing the chance of leakage even further. It may be preferred, that between 10 and 100% of the length (longest dimension) of the total conduit is positioned at the outside part of the body part of the cap, more preferably from 20 to 80%, most preferably from 30 to 60%. It may be preferred, that between 10 and 100% of the length (longest dimension) of the total conduit is positioned at the inside part of the body part of the cap, more preferably from 20 to 80%, most preferably from 30 to 60%.

[0030] The conduit has an exit orifice (8) to discharge and dispense the product to be dispensed from the dispensing cap. The diameter D of the exit orifice is preferably of from 4.5 to 7.5 mm, preferably of from 5.0 to 7.0 mm, and most preferably of from 5.55 to 6.5 mm. The diameter of the entrance orifice (18) preferably is from 6.0 to 9.0 mm, preferably of from 6.5 to 8.5 mm, and most preferably of from 7.0 to 8.0 mm. The conduit preferably has no other openings apart from the exit orifice and the entrance orifice.

[0031] The inside of the conduit preferably is tapered. The diameter of the entrance orifice (18) preferably is larger than the diameter D of the exit orifice (8). The angle of the tapering is preferably of between 3 and 7 °, preferably of between 4 and 6 °.

[0032] The length L of the conduit (7) includes a length L1 of the part of the conduit protruding outwardly from the spout, and measured from the center of the exit orifice (8) to junction of the conduit with the spout, typically platform the (6). This is typically measured as a line perpendicular to spout-conduit junction or the spout-platform junction, typically resulting in the shortest distance. The length L of the conduit includes the length L2 of the part of the conduit that extends from the spout-conduit junction, typically the platform-conduit junction to the entrance orifice (18), and is measured as a line perpendicular to spout-conduit junction or the spout- platform junction, typically resulting in the shortest distance. With other words, typically L1 and L2 are measured along the midline of the conduit. Where e.g. the platform forming a spout-conduit junction has a certain width, the mid of the width is take a reference point to calculate L1 and L2. In the present invention, it was surprisingly found, that an optimal ratio between length L1 of the upper part of the conduit (7) and the diameter D1 of the exit orifice and of the length L2 of the lower part of the conduit and the diameter of the entrance orifice (18) results in superior reduction in leaking, in particular of non-Newtonian fluids to be dispensed, while not affecting the flow rate and / or required discharge squeeze force to a level perceived as inconvenient. Counter-intuitively, it was found that a ratio L1 :D1 below 1 , preferably from 0.2 to 0.9, or preferably from 0.2 to 0.8, more preferably from 0.3 to 0.9, even more preferably from 0.5 to 0.9, and even more preferably from 0.6 to 0.8 and a ratio L2:D2 from 0.5 to 1 .5, preferably from 0.5 to 1.2, even more preferably from 0.5 to 1.0 and even more preferably from 0.5 to 0.9 and most preferably from 0.6 to 0.8 proved optimal, and a significant reduction in leakage was observed. It may be preferred, that the distances L1 and L2 are both 20-80%, preferably 25-75%, preferably 30-70%, more preferably 40-60%, even more preferably 45-55%, of the length of distance L. It may be preferred, that the distance L1 is 20- 80%, preferably 25-75%, preferably 30-70%, more preferably 40-60%, even more preferably 45-55%, of the length of distance L. The distance L1 can for example preferably be from 20 to 60%, or preferably from 25 to 50% of the distance L. It can be preferred, that the distance L2 is larger than the distance L1 .

[0033] The exit orifice (8) can for example have the shape of an ellipse, a star, a triangle, a square or a circle. It was found, that an exit orifice with a circular shape proved most beneficial regarding reduced leakage, in particular when the liquid to be dispensed was a non-Newtonian liquid, such as for example an oil-in-water emulsion, such as for example a sauce of the mayonnaise type. Without willing to be bound to theory, it appeared that especially for non-Newtonian fluids the reduced leakage could be due to the minimal surface area of a circular shape that reduces retention of the liquid to the wall and enhancing recharge of the liquid by the container after a discharge squeeze by a consumer. Accordingly, the exit orifice is preferably circular.

[0034] The body part of the dispense cap typically comprises a connection means (10) to connect the dispensing cap to a container, to form an assembly (27). The connection means can be for example a snap-on closure, or a screw thread. Preferably a screw thread is present. A screw thread allows easy removal to allow reuse or recycling of the dispense cap. The inside of the body part of the cap may contain a pre-discharge area located between the connection means (10) such as a screw thread, and the inside top of the cap, preferably a top platform (6). Especially in the situation that a packaging assembly is stored in the upside-down position, wherein the exit orifice points to the ground, product may sink to this area. As said, it is preferred that the top part of the area comprise a horizontal part, such as a top platform (6). It was found, that the amount of syneresis liquid was less in a cap that has such a top platform (6), truncated cone or preferably a frustrum shape, e.g. right frustrum of a cone, compared to a cap with a cone shape.

[0035] Especially when the spout is in the preferred shape of a truncated cone, most preferably frustrum of a cone, preferably the conduit is positioned in the center of the resulting top platform (6). On the outside part, the conduit may be surrounded by a support rim (16) that radially extends around the conduit (7), to support a corresponding support rim (17) that is preferably present in the lid. When the dispensing cap is in closed position, the support rim (16) from the body part and the support rim from the lid (17) preferably do not touch each other and can define that a pin (12) from the lid descends into the orifice (8) and the conduit (7).

[0036] The body part (2) of the dispensing cap preferably comprises a skirt (9a). The skirt typically extends from the basis of the spout (5). Preferably, the skirt extends from the basis of the spout, upwards, i.e. in the direction of the exit orifice. The shape of the skirt (9a) of the body part preferably continues in a skirt of the lid part (9b). The skirt (9a) preferably is translucent or transparent, preferably transparent. It may be preferred that the skirt of a lid part (9b) is translucent and transparent, preferably transparent. Preferably both the skirts of the body part and the lid part are translucent or transparent, preferably transparent.

[0037] The base (21) of the body part preferably has a circular or elliptical shape. Preferably, the base of a spout (5) has a circular or elliptical or square shape, preferably a circular shape. Preferably, the base (21) of the body part of the lid co-locates with the base of a spout (5), wherein preferably the spout (5) has the shape of a dome, a cone, a pyramid, or a truncated cone, a frustrum, preferably the shape of a right frustrum of a cone. The top rim (22) of the body part of the lid may have a circular, elliptical or square shape, preferably an elliptical shape. It may be preferred, that the outside wall of the skirt (9a) has a straight of concave shape, preferably concave, to further improve stabilization in case of an upside-down positioning of the dispensing cap (e.g. in the case of a tottle-type packaging assembly). Support rims (15) may be present on the internal surface (11) of the spout.

[0038] The lid typically comprises a cover platform (23). The cover platform is preferably level. This allows stable positioning of a packaging assembly comprising the dispensing cap on the cap. The bottom edge (24) of the lid part typically contacts the top rim (22) of the body part when the dispensing cap is in closed position. The bottom edge preferably has the same shape as the top rim of the body part of the cap, and accordingly preferably has a circular, elliptical or square shape, preferably an elliptical shape. The top rim (25) of the lid part preferably has the same shape as the bottom rim (24). Preferably, the top rim (25) has a circular, elliptical or square shape, preferably an elliptical shape. Preferably, the diameter of the top rim (25) is larger than that of the bottom rim (24).

[0039] The lid (3) preferably comprises a pin (12). The pin preferably has a top surface in the form of a dome, i.e. a segment of a sphere. In particular, it was found, that a closed, e.g. a solid, dome shape is optimal, particular in the context of non-Newtonian fluid, e.g. compared to a dome shape that is open and comprises several walls to form an ‘open dome’, and thereby defining ‘chambers’. A dome shape, in particular a solid dome, proved optimal to push back any traces of liquid into the conduit during closure of the dispensing cap, thereby reducing leakage. The pin (12) is typically located in the center of the lid. The pin is designed to fit in the exit orifice (8), preferably to close it off and preventing product to escape the conduit (7). Accordingly, the diameter of the pin (below the dome) preferably is more than 4.5 and less than 7.0 mm, preferably more than 5.0 and less than 6.5 mm, more preferably more than 5.5 and less than 6.0 mm. The length of the pin, measured from the base connected to the lid is preferably from 3.0 to 5.5 mm, preferably of from 3.5 to 5.0 mm, more preferably of from 4.0 to 4.5 mm. The cross section of the pin is preferably circular. It is preferred, that the upper part (20) of the conduit (7) removably connects with the lid part (3) via a lip-groove design, when the dispensing cap is in closed position. A lip-groove feature is as such known in the art, but its advantages were to the knowledge of the inventor up to now not recognized and applied in caps to disperse liquid or semi-liquid products, in particular of the non-Newtonian type. A lip / groove feature typically comprises two separate parts that mate closely: the lip and the groove. In this manner a close joint is provided along the walls of the two parts.

[0040] It was surprisingly found, that a lip-groove design proved optimal in providing a clean seal in the context of dispensing caps comprising a pin (12) in the lid, while minimizing the amount of spillage of product over the elements of the inside of the lid part. This worked especially well in the context of dispensing caps comprising a pin (12) in the lid. The upper part of the conduit (20) in this manner forms the lip that upon closure is introduced into the groove (14) on the lid part, that surrounds the pin (12) if present. To this extend, preferably a support rim (17) is present on the lid to form the groove. In the preferred case that a pin (12) is present at the lid, typically the support rim (17) annularly surrounds the pin. The body part (2) of the cap preferably comprises a corresponding support rim (16) that annularly surrounds the conduit. In closed position the support rim (16) of the body part and the support rim (17) of the lid part preferably do not touch each other, reducing friction and to provide more stability to the center part of the closed cap and minimizing moving of the pin in the conduit, and thereby providing optimal functionality of a snap-fit closure and reduced leakage risk, in particular of a nonNewtonian fluid. The width of the support rim (17) in the lid part is preferably of from 0.6 to 1.1 mm, preferably of from 0.8 to 0.9 mm. The width of the support rim (16) of the body part preferably is from 0.2 to 0.6 mm, preferably of from 0.3 to 0.5 mm. The width of the top part (20) of the conduit at its most distal end, i.e. the width of the rim (19) is preferably of from 0.8 to 2.0 mm, preferably from 1.2 to 1.6 mm. The width of the rim (19) preferably corresponds with the width of the groove, wherein the lip (20) will, at least partly, sink upon closure of the cap.

[0041] To further stabilize the pin (12), if present, within the conduit, in the closed position of the dispensing cap, in closed position, the upper part (20) of the conduit is preferably removably locked into the groove (14) via a snap-fit closure. Preferably, one or more snap fits (13) (i.e. lateral extensions) are annularly positioned around the inside of the groove (14). Snap fits are preferably arranged annularly. Snap fits are preferably arranged at the inside wall of the groove (14), i.e arranged preferably at the inside wall of the support rim (17) of the lid. Snap fits could be connected to and extending from the pin (12) or connected to and extending from the inside wall of the support rim (17) of the lid, more preferably they are connected to and extending from the inside wall of the support rim (17). It can be preferred, that snap fits (13) protrude from the inside wall of the support rim (17) of the lid and from the upper part (2) of the conduit, e.g. at a position lower than the rim (19). As mentioned earlier herein, the top edge of the conduit (7) preferably comprises a rim (19) that is preferably laterally extending. Upon closure, the laterally extending rim (19) snaps under the one or more snap fits (13) in the groove (14), thereby securing the position of the pin in the conduit. Alternatively, it may be preferred that an annular rim is located in the groove as a snap fit and the laterally extending top rim (19), or snaps protruding from the upper part (20) of the conduit, snaps over it upon closure. It can be preferred, that the extending top rim (19) is segmented, forming ‘snaps’ that snap over a snap fit (13) in the form of a rim located in the groove (either connected to the pin or to the inner wall of the support rim of the lid part (17), the latter being preferred), or over snap fits (13) located in the groove, (either connected to the pin or to the inner wall of the support rim of the lid part (17), the latter being preferred). Accordingly, preferably a total of 1 to 10, more preferably from 2 to 7, and more preferably from 3 to 6 snap fits (13) may be present at the inside wall of the support rim (17), or at the outside wall of the top part (20) of the conduit or both.

[0042] The dispensing cap is preferably made in one piece, for example resulting from a process that involves injection moulding, as known in the art. Accordingly, the dispensing cap is preferably made from one material. It is preferred that the dispensing cap consists of polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, low-density polyethylene, high density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene or polycarbonate, more preferably of polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or polyethylene, and even more preferably, the dispensing cap is made from polypropylene, e.g. in view of injection moulding quality in the context of the invention.

[0043] The advantage achieved by the present invention is that by an optimal ratio of orifice diameter and conduit length a valveless dispensing cap could be provided wherein leakage was reduced to acceptable levels, while maintaining an acceptable force required to discharge the product, in comparison to existing valveless dispensing caps.

[0044] The present invention describes several features that further improve the rheology upon discharge vs. optimization of anti-leakage performance of the present invention. As the skilled person can envision, a combination of one or more of such features with the present invention is in particular preferred, to achieve the most optimal performance. In a particularly preferred aspect the invention relates to a dispensing cap (1) comprising:

[0045] • A body (2) and a lid (3), hingeably connected to each other via a hinge (4),

[0046] • wherein the body (2) comprises a spout (5) and a conduit (7), with an inner length L,

[0047] • wherein part of the conduit (7) is present at the outside of the spout and part extends at the inside of the spout,

[0048] • wherein the conduit has an exit orifice (8), with a diameter D1 , and an entrance orifice (18) with a diameter D2, and has a distance L1 , perpendicularly extending from the exit orifice (8) to the spout-conduit junction (26) and a distance L2 perpendicularly extending from the spout-conduit junction (26) to the entrance orifice (18),

[0049] • wherein the ratio L1 :D1 is from 0.2 to 0.9, preferably from 0.3 to 0.9, more preferably from 0.5 to 0.9, even more preferably from 0.6 to 0.8, and wherein the ratio L2:D2 is from 0.5 to 1.5, preferably from 0.5 to 1.2, even more preferably from 0.5 to 1.0, even more preferably from 0.5 to 0.9 and most preferably from 0.6 to 0.8, wherein the cap body comprises a top platform (6), radially extending outward around the part of the conduit (7) that is present on the outside of the spout, wherein the cap body (2) comprises a skirt (9a), positioned radially outward of the conduit (7), wherein the lid comprises a pin (12) to fit in the exit orifice (8), preferably surrounded by a support rim (17), wherein the upper part (20) of the conduit (7) removably connects with the lid part via a lip (20) - groove (14) design, when the dispensing cap is in closed position, wherein in closed position of the dispensing cap, the top rim (19) of the conduit (7) is removable locked into the groove (14) of the lid part (3) via a snap fit closure, preferably wherein one or more snap fits (13) are annularly positioned at an inside wall of the support rim (17). The inside wall of the support rim (17) is the wall facing the pin (12) and the wall of the conduit (20) when the cap is in closed position.

[0050] In another particularly preferred aspect the invention relates to a dispensing cap (1) comprising:

[0051] • A body (2) and a lid (3), hingeably connected to each other via a hinge (4),

[0052] • wherein the body (2) comprises a spout (5) and a conduit (7), with an inner length L,

[0053] • wherein part of the conduit (7) is present at the outside of the spout and part extends at the inside of the spout, • wherein the conduit has an exit orifice (8), with a diameter D1 , and an entrance orifice (18) with a diameter D2, and has a distance L1 perpendicularly extending from the exit orifice (8) to the spout-conduit junction (26) and a distance L2 perpendicularly extending from the spout-conduit junction (26) to the entrance orifice (18),

[0054] • wherein the ratio L1 :D1 is from 0.2 to 0.9, preferably from 0.3 to 0.9, more preferably from 0.5 to 0.9, even more preferably from 0.6 to 0.8, and wherein the ratio L2:D2 is from 0.5 to 1.5, preferably from 0.5 to 1.2, more preferably from 0.5 to 1.0 and even more preferably from 0.5 to 0.9 and most preferably from 0.6 to 0.8, wherein the cap body comprises a top platform (6), radially extending outward around the part of the conduit (7) that is present on the outside of the spout, wherein the cap body comprises a skirt (9a), positioned radially outward of the conduit (7), wherein the lid comprises a pin (12) to fit in the exit orifice (8), wherein the upper part (20) of the conduit (7) removably connects with the lid part via a lip (20) - groove (14) design, when the dispensing cap is in closed position, wherein the inside of the conduit is tapered, with the exit orifice (8) having a smaller diameter than the entrance orifice (18).

[0055] In an even more particularly preferred aspect the invention relates to a dispensing cap (1) comprising:

[0056] • A body (2) and a lid (3), hingeably connected to each other via a hinge (4),

[0057] • wherein the body (2) comprises a spout (5) and a conduit (7), with an inner length L,

[0058] • wherein part of the conduit (7) is present at the outside of the spout and part extends at the inside of the spout,

[0059] • wherein the conduit has an exit orifice (8), with a diameter D1 , and an entrance orifice (18) with a diameter D2, and has a distance L1 perpendicularly extending from the exit orifice (8) to the spout-conduit junction (26) and a distance L2 perpendicularly extending from the spout-conduit junction (26) to the entrance orifice (18),

[0060] • wherein the ratio L1 :D1 is from 0.2 to 0.9, preferably from 0.3 to 0.9, more preferably from 0.5 to 0.9, even more preferably from 0.6 to 0.8, and wherein the ratio L2:D2 is from 0.5 to 1.5, preferably from 0.5 to 1.2, even more preferably from 0.5 to 1.0, and even more preferably from 0.5 to 0.9 and most preferably from 0.6 to 0.8, wherein the cap body comprises a top platform (6), radially extending outward around the part of the conduit (7) that is present on the outside of the spout, wherein the cap body comprises a skirt (9a), positioned radially outward of the conduit (7), wherein the lid comprises a pin (12) to fit in the exit orifice (8), preferably wherein the surface of the pin (12) facing the body (2) in closed position of the dispensing cap, is in the form of a dome, and wherein the lid preferably comprises a support wall (17), wherein the upper part (20) of the conduit (7) removably connects with the lid part via a lip (20) - groove (14) design, when the dispensing cap is in closed position, wherein in closed position of the dispensing cap, the upper part of the conduit (20) of the conduit (7) is removably locked into the groove (14) of the lid part (3) via a snap fit closure, preferably wherein snap fits (13) are annularly positioned at an inside wall of the support rim (17). wherein the inside of the conduit is tapered with the exit orifice (8) having a smaller diameter than the entrance orifice (18).

[0061] Packaging assembly

[0062] In a further aspect, the invention relates to a packaging assembly comprising the dispensing cap of the invention and a container. The cap and the container are suitably connected via a connection means (10), which preferably is a screw thread, but may be a snap-on connection.

[0063] The container is preferably an upside-down bottle, commonly known in the field as a container of the ‘tottle’ type. Although the present invention proves advantageous regarding leakage reduction while optimizing sgueezing force to discharge product, in both upside-up bottles and in tottles, the advantage is more predominant for tottles, as the risk of product leakage is more imminent. The volume of the container is preferably of from 200 to 1000 ml, such as preferably from 220 to 275 or from 400 to 500 ml. or more preferably of from 650 to 1000 ml, and most preferably from 225 to 800 ml. It may be preferred, that the container is made from one material to improve recyclability of the container material. Preferably, the container is made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), or polypropylene (PP). More preferably, the container is made from PET or PP and most preferably, the container is made from PET. The container preferably comprises recycled PE, recycled PP or recycled PET, preferably comprises recycled PP or recycled PET, and most preferably comprises recycled PET.

[0064] It is preferred, that the packaging assembly comprises a liguid or semi-liguid product, preferably a liguid or semi-liguid consumer product. Preferably the packaging comprises a non-Newtonian product, preferably a non-Newtonian food product.

[0065] The firmness of the product, in particular when the product is an emulsion such as an oil-in- water emulsified food product, can be characterised by the Stevens value of the product, which determines the hardness of the product. The product preferably has a Stevens value at 20°C ranging from 80 gram to 240 gram, preferably from 100 gram to 220 gram, more preferably ranging from 120 to 200 gram. The Stevens value is determined at 20°C by using a Stevens LFRA Texture Analyser (ex Brookfield Viscometers Ltd., UK) with a maximum load / measuring range of 1000 grams, and applying a penetration test of 25 mm using a grid, at 2 mm per second penetration rate, in a cup having a diameter of 65 mm, that contains the product; wherein the grid comprises square openings of approximately 3x3 mm, is made up of wire with a thickness of approximately 1 mm, and has a diameter of 40 mm. This methodology is further described herein in the experimental section.

[0066] Liquid or semi-liquid products may be selected from the group consisting of sauces, such as mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, salad dressing, variety sauces, laundry detergent, shower gel, sauce, soup, soap, shampoo, fabric conditioner, wok sauces, tomato sauce. It is in particular preferred, that the product is selected from mayonnaise and mayonnaise-like sauce, mustard, ketchup, in particular non-Newtonian variants thereof. It can be preferred that the product comprises oil and water, preferably in an emulsified form, and most preferably wherein the product is an oil-in-water emulsion.

[0067] Method to produce the dispensing cap

[0068] In a further aspect, the invention relates to a method to prepare a dispensing cap according to the invention, the method comprising the steps of: a) Providing liquid polymer, preferably polypropylene, b) Providing a mold defining the shape of a dispensing cap (1) according to the invention, c) Injecting the polymer into the mould to form the dispensing cap (1) according to the invention using injection moulding, to result in a dispensing cap according to anyone of the preceding claims.

[0069] It can be preferred, that step b) comprises the provision of several moulds of different elements of the cap, for example a mould comprising the skirt of the body part, the hinge part and the lid part of the cap, and in a second mold the spout (5) of the body part is formed. However, it is more preferred, that the dispensing cap is produced in one mould. It can be preferred though, that in step c) injection moulding is carried out using one or ore injection points, as known in the art. This can be preferred for example if a different color or material of the spout is desired. For example two injection points may be preferred, in a process called bi-injection moulding, in this manner producing a spout (5) with a colour that is different from that of the rest of the cap.

[0070] Use It was found in the present invention that a specific ratio of the diameter of the exit orifice (8) to the total length of the conduit (7) resulted in an improved anti-leakage performance while maintaining a comfortable force required to discharge the product. Accordingly, in a further aspect the invention relates to the use of a ratio L1 :D1 from 0.2 to 0.9, preferably from 0.3 to 0.9, more preferably from 0.5 to 0.9, even more preferably from 0.6 to 0.8 and L2:D2 of 0.5 to 1.5, preferably from 0.5 to 1.2, even more preferably from 0.5 to 1.0, even more preferably from 0.5 to 0.9 and most preferably from 0.6 to 0.8, in a dispensing cap (1) comprising:

[0071] • a body (2) and a lid (3), hingeably connected to each other via a hinge (4),

[0072] • wherein the body (2) comprises a spout (5) and a conduit (7), with an inner length L,

[0073] • wherein the conduit has an exit orifice (8), with a diameter D1 , and an entrance orifice (18) with a diameter D2, and has a distance L1 perpendicularly extending from the exit orifice (8) to the spout-conduit junction (26) and a distance L2 perpendicularly extending from the spout-conduit junction (26) to the entrance orifice (18),

[0074] • to improve anti-leakage performance while maintaining a comfortable force required to discharge product. The dispensing cap preferably does not comprise a valve. The dispensing cap is preferably connected to a container, to form a packaging assembly, wherein the packaging assembly is preferably of the tottle-type. The anti-leakage and rheology performance is in particularly achieved for a non-Newtonian liquid, and mentioned packaging assembly accordingly preferably comprises a non-Newtonian liquid.

[0075] Method

[0076] Stevens value in gram: the hardness of a product to be dispensed by the packaging assembly, in particular the hardness of an oil-in-water emulsified food product, is determined by using the Stevens value. The Stevens value is determined at20°C by using a Stevens LFRA Texture Analyser (ex Brookfield Viscometers Ltd., UK) with a maximum load / measuring range of 1000 grams, and applying a penetration test of 25 mm using a grid, at 2 mm per second penetration rate, in a cup having a diameter of 65 mm, that contains the emulsion; wherein the grid comprises square openings of approximately 3x3 mm, is made up of wire with a thickness of approximately 1 mm, and has a diameter of 40 mm. One end of a shaft is connected to the probe of the texture analyser, while the other end is connected to the middle of the grid. The grid is positioned on the flat upper surface of the emulsion in the cup. Upon starting the penetration test, the grid is slowly pushed downward into the emulsion by the texture analyser. The peak force exerted on the probe is recorded and translated into the Stevens value in gram. The grid is made from stainless steel, and has 76 holes, each hole having a surface area of approximately 3x3 mm. The invention is now exemplified by the following, non-limiting examples.

[0077] Examples

[0078] Example 1

[0079] Example 1 exemplifies several caps (#1-6) with variations in the diameters of the entrance orifice (D2) and exit (D1) orifice as well as in the length of the part of the conduit that is located inside (L2) and outside (L1) of the cap. Outlet velocity and surface pressure to release product were compared to reference values as observed in a commercial cap using a silicon valve.

[0080] The outlet velocity and surface pressure were measured using Solidworks flow simulations.

[0081] With the following fluid properties: Material type: non-Newtonian; Density: 910 kg / mA3; Specific heat: 335000 J / (kg*K); Thermal conductivity: 0.2 W / (m*K); Consistency coefficient:

[0082] 77 Pa*s; Yield stress: 59.6 Pa. Gravity: Y-component -9.81 m / s2; Flow type: Laminar flow; Lid 1 : Bottle’s neck and Lid 2: The outside orifice.

[0083] It is desired that the internal cap pressure, as measured at the inside of platform (6) in the cap, is comparable to the reference value of a closure with silicon valve, since it is unwanted to have a too high of an inside pressure the closure, this will translate in a too high dosing force.

[0084] Results are depicted in table 1 below.

[0085] Table 1 Reference Cap #1 is a cap as commercially used with a silicon valve. To create an equal comparison with caps #2-6, the influence of the valve on (initial) exit flow speed and pressure upon squeezing was omitted by removing the silicon valve, Cap #2, according to the invention, proved most optimal, resembling most closely the discharge velocity (outlet velocity) and internal closure pressure max (bottom) of a reference cap that includes a silicon valve. Comparative Caps #3 and 4, which have a larger external length of the conduit (L1), a smaller diameter of the exit orifice (D1), showed suboptimal discharge velocities and max bottom surface pressures. The tests indicate that optimal values are obtained with L1 :D1 ratio around 0.7. Example 5 illustrates that a cylindrical conduit (exit orifice same size as entrance orifice) results in an increase in exit speed and pressure. Comparative Cap 6, having a relatively long inside conduit length resulted in high product left-over, which is undesired from a cost and sustainability perspective.

[0086] Example 2.

[0087] In Example 2 three conduit designs were compared regarding the squeeze force required to discharge 15 ml of product (mayonnaise) from a tottle container. The cap conduit has the following dimensions in mm (dimensions after 3D printing): Cap 1 : L1 : 5.0, D1 : 6.0; L2: 0.3, D2: 6.0. Cap 2: L1 : 5.0, D1 : 6.0; L2: 4.3, D2: 6.0. Cap 3: L1 : 5.0, D1 : 6.0; L2: 4.3, D2: 8.0.

[0088] Test method: Squeeze tests - (amount of Newtons required to dose 13 grams of product). Tests were carried out at room temperature, recipe: Ligeresa Original Mayonnaise™.

[0089] Samples were furthermore tested for leakage of product. The caps were combined with a container with 430 ml of mayonnaise and squeezed ten times. Between each squeeze, the bottle was shaken up-side down with a closed closure.

[0090] The following caps where prepared, as depicted in figure 8: Fused Deposition Modelling 3D- printed PLA caps 1) no design, 2) tube design, 3) cone design, exit orifice smaller than entrance orifice.

[0091] Result: Conclusion: The three tested conduit designs showed comparable results regarding squeeze force required to discharge 15 ml, and were all in the optimal range of less than 60 N. Cap #3, with tapered walls of conduit, resulted in most clean inside of the cap. No product spillage observed within the cap body or at the inside of the lid. Caps (1) and (2) did result in spoilage at the inside of the cap. Without willing to be bound to theory, the product gets sucked back into the packaging the easiest with a conduit having a ‘cone design’ (3). This tapered design appears optimal for still providing a relatively low required squeeze force, provided for by a relatively large opening, and as most desired by consumers, while decreasing the chance of leaking.

Claims

Claims1. Dispensing cap (1) comprising:• A body (2) and a lid (3), hingeably connected to each other via a hinge (4),• wherein the body (2) comprises a spout (5) and a conduit (7), with an inner length L,• wherein part of the conduit (7) is present at the outside of the spout and part extends at the inside of the spout,• wherein the conduit has an exit orifice (8), with a diameter D1 , and an entrance orifice (18) with a diameter D2, and has a distance L1 perpendicularly extending from the exit orifice (8) to the spout-conduit junction (26) and a distance L2 perpendicularly extending from the spout-conduit junction (26) to the entrance orifice (18),• wherein the ratio L1 :D1 is from 0.2 to 0.9, preferably from 0.3 to 0.9, more preferably from 0.5 to 0.9, even more preferably from 0.6 to 0.8, and wherein the ratio L2:D2 is from 0.5 to 1.5, preferably from 0.5 to 1.2, even more preferably from 0.5 to 0.9 and most preferably from 0.6 to 0.8.

2. Dispensing cap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inside of the conduit is tapered with the exit orifice (8) having a smaller diameter than the entrance orifice (18), preferably is tapered with the same angle over the length of the conduit and at all sides of the conduit, preferably with an angle of 3 to 7 °.

3. Dispensing cap according to anyone of the preceding claims, wherein the wall of the conduit is straight from entrance orifice to exit orifice, preferably circular symmetrical symmetric.

4. Dispensing cap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cap body (2) comprises a top platform (6), radially extending outward around the cap, preferably a horizontal platform.

5. Dispensing cap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the conduit does not comprise any protrusion at the inside of the conduit.

6. Dispensing cap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the exit orifice is positioned centrally v.a.v. the cap.

7. Dispensing cap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lid comprises a pin (12) to fit in the exit orifice (8).

8. Dispensing cap according to claim 7, wherein the surface of the pin (12) facing the body (2) in closed position of the dispensing cap, is in the form of a dome.

9. Dispensing cap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper part (20) of the conduit (7) removably connects with the lid part via a lip (20) - groove (14) design, when the dispensing cap is in closed position.

10. Dispensing cap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in closed position of the dispensing cap, the upper part (20) of the conduit (7) is removable locked into the groove (14) of the lid part (3) via a snap-fit closure, preferably wherein one or more snap fits (13) are annularly positioned at an inside wall of a support wall (17) of the lid.

11. Dispensing cap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cap is a one- piece dispensing cap.

12. Packaging assembly comprising the dispensing cap (1) according to any one of the preceding claims and a container.

13. Packaging assembly according to claim 12, wherein the container is removably connected to the dispensing cap (1) via a screw thread (10).

14. Packaging assembly according to any one of claims 12 or 13, wherein the container comprises a non-Newtonian liquid, preferably a non-Newtonian food product.

15. Method to prepare a dispensing cap according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising the steps of: a) Providing liquid polymer, preferably polypropylene, b) Providing a mold defining the shape of a dispensing cap (1) according to anyone of claims 1 to 12, c) Injecting the polymer into the mould to form the dispensing cap (1) according to anyone of claims 1 to 12 using injection moulding, to result in a dispensing cap according to anyone of the preceding claims.

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