Closure assembly comprising a cap with a tamper-evident ring

Abstract

A closure assembly comprising an article and comprising a cap provided with an integrated tamper-evident ring member. The article has a neck around a product passage. The tamper- evident ring member is adapted to be secured on the neck of the article by means of a securing motion which comprises both an axial and rotational component, and the tamper-evident ring member is connected to the cap body via breakable bridges. The neck and tamper-evident ring member are provided with retention members and windows respectively which block axial and rotational movement of tamper-evident ring member with respect to the neck. The tamper-evident ring member has an oblong shape at the lower end.

Description

[0001] CLOSURE ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A CAP WITH A TAMPER-EVIDENT RING

[0002] The present invention relates to a closure assembly with a tamper-evident ring member, a container with the closure assembly, and a method for assembling the closure assembly.

[0003] Closure assemblies are known with a plastic cap which can be removed by a user through lifting and / or rotational movement from a neck, e.g. the neck of a plastic article or the neck of a spout that has been fitted on a collapsible pouch container.

[0004] In manufacturing a closure assembly, a tamper-evident structure is often integrally moulded as part of the plastic cap. Examples of such closure assemblies are shown in WO 2014 / 007612 and WO2012 / 044166.

[0005] The cap including the tamper-evident ring member has to be fixed to the neck of an article. Upon removal of the cap body the tamper-evident ring member should remain secured to the neck. To ensure this, it is known to provide the tamper-evident ring member and the neck with corresponding snap portions, such that a snap-fit connection is established when the cap is secured on the neck. The snap-fit connection can block axial and / or rotational movement of the tamper-evident ring member with respect to the neck. Examples of such closure assemblies are shown in WG2020 / 050712, WG9733800, and WG2009 / 095297.

[0006] The present invention aims to provide an improved closure assembly. In particular, the invention aims to provide a closure assembly which allows for an easier assembly process, as well as providing a closure assembly wherein the tamper-evident ring member is axially and rotationally fixed with respect to the neck of the article.

[0007] The present invention provides a closure assembly according to claim 1.

[0008] The oblong shape of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member allows - during the securing of the cap to the neck - the retention members to be located inside of the oblong contour of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member, when looking in a top view. When the first axis is approximately aligned with the retention member axis, the retention members will be located inside of the contour of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member. This allows the tamper-evident ring member to move axially downward and partially over the retention members. When the cap is further rotated the retention members will elastically deform the tamper-evident ring member until a snap-fit connection is established between the retention members and the retention windows. The retention members are then retained by the retention windows so that the tamper-evident ring member is axially and rotationally fixed with respect to the neck of the article. Upon opening of the closure assembly, the tamper-evident ring member remains in place on the article.

[0009] The oblong shape may be an oval shape, e.g. an elliptical shape, so with a continuously curved circumference, but other oblong shapes, e.g. an oblong shape including straight sections in the circumference, or a combination of curved and straight sections, are also envisaged. In practical embodiments, e.g. as shown in the drawings, the oblong shape can be an oval shape.

[0010] The present invention, for example, allows for assembly of the closure assembly by using a screwing machine for the cap. Such screwing machines are commonly used to assemble screw type closure assemblies. However, as explained herein, the present invention envisages that a screwing machine may also be used when the cap body is not a screw cap but embodied as a snap cap. Herein the interior side of the skirt and an exterior side of the neck are provided with cooperating snap-fit portions which allow to snap-fit the cap body on the neck. For example, the invention allows for one assembly station with a screwing machine to be used both for assembly of closure assemblies with a screw cap and with a snap cap. For example, such assembly station is present in a filling machine, wherein a container, e.g. a pouch or carton, provided with or incorporating the article is first filled with a product via the neck and then the cap is assembled thereon to close the container.

[0011] In practical embodiments, the screwing machine may impart a constant axial and rotational motion to the cap, i.e. a helical motion. The constant rotational component of the securing motion then ensures that the first axis of the oblong lower end of the tamper-evident ring member will at some point line up with the retention member axis. The constant axial component of the securing motion will then ensure that the oblong lower end of the tamper- evident ring member will move over the retention members. This happens while the cap rotates further, such that an inside surface of the oblong lower end of the tamper-evident ring member comes into contact with the outer ends of the retention members. When the cap is further rotated and moved downward in the helical securing motion, the retention members deform the oblong lower end of the tamper-evident ring member, generally press it outwardly, until a snap-fit connection is established between the retention members and the retention windows. When this snap-fit connection is established, the elastically deformed section of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member regains its original non-deformed shape. It is desirable to limit the forces acting on the closure assembly as well as on any assembly equipment used to assemble the closure assembly during the securing of the cap to the neck. For example, the breakable bridges between the skirt and the tamper-evident ring member should remain unbroken during the securing of the cap to the neck. In this context, the present invention allows to limit the torsional force or torque required to secure the cap to the neck by comprising a lower end of the tamper-evident ring member with an oblong shape. This oblong shape allows the retention member to be located inside of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member when the first axis is substantially aligned with the retention members axis, thus not requiring the cap to be forcibly pressed over the retention members which would cause significant forces acting on the cap as well as any assembly equipment used to assemble the closure assembly. Additionally, the oblong shape of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member will - during the securing motion - cause a more gradual elastic deformation of the tamper-evident ring member, which reduces the forces acting on the cap as well as any assembly equipment, for example ensuring that the torque exerted remains under a certain threshold until the snap-fit connection is established.

[0012] In embodiments, the cap can be secured on the neck with a securing motion regardless of the direction of the rotational component of the securing motion, i.e. the cap can be secured to the neck both when the rotational component of the securing motion is clockwise and when it is counter clockwise.

[0013] The cooperating retention members and retention windows secure the tamper-evident ring both in the axial and rotational directions with respect to the neck. The tamper-evident ring member thus remains in the same place when the cap body is removed from the neck, which is especially beneficial when a tether is provided between the tamper-evident ring member and the cap body. In practical embodiments, the simple geometry and shape of the retention members and retention windows also reduces the complexity of the moulds needed to produce closure assembly, saving both cost and material.

[0014] In an embodiment, e.g. when the securing motion is a helical securing motion, the retention members and retention windows are angled with respect to the main axis of the neck. Preferably, the angle of the retention members and retention windows is the same, e.g. the angle being between 80 - 85 degrees with respect to the main axis. Preferably, the angle of the retention members and windows corresponds to the pitch of a screwing machine used to assemble the closure assembly, the angle of the retention members and retention windows aiding in the establishment of the snap-fit connection during the securing motion. In an embodiment, the largest dimension of the oblong lower end of the tamper-evident ring member is between 10 - 30% larger, preferably between 20 - 25% larger, than the smallest dimension of the oblong lower end of the tamper-evident ring member.

[0015] In an embodiment, the largest dimension of the oblong lower end of the tamper-evident ring member is between 15 - 25 millimetres, e.g. between 17 - 20 millimetres.

[0016] In an embodiment, the smallest dimension of the oblong lower end of the tamper-evident ring member is between 10 - 20 millimetres, e.g. between 13 - 17 millimetres.

[0017] In an embodiment, the distance between the outer ends of the retention members is between 10 - 20 millimetres, e.g. between 13 - 17 millimetres.

[0018] In an embodiment, there is - when the first axis and the retention members axis are aligned - a clearance or spacing between the outer ends of the retention members and an inner surface of the oblong lower end of the tamper-evident ring member. This allows for a gradual elastic deformation of the tamper-evident ring member by the retention members, as well as ensuring that the oblong lower end of the tamper-evident ring member can easily move axially downward past the retention members.

[0019] In an embodiment, the retention members have a radial extension relative to the neck of between 0,5 - 2 millimetres, e.g. between 0,75 - 1 ,25 millimetres. The radial extension of the retention members is practically such that the cap cannot be secured by a purely axial securing movement and it also ensures that a user is not capable of inadvertently removing the tamper-evident ring member from the neck of the article.

[0020] In an embodiment, the outer ends of the retention members have a substantially constant radial extension with respect to the neck, e.g. the outer ends of the retention members have no ramp feature wherein the extension of the retention member gradually increases. This ensures that once the retention member is retained within a respective one of the retention windows, the tamper-evident ring member is not able to be rotated in either rotational direction, as well as in axial direction with respect to the neck.

[0021] In an embodiment, the cap further comprises:

[0022] - two cam ramps integrally moulded with the tamper-evident ring member and each having a first ramp profile which is angled with respect to the main axis, which cam ramps are arranged at the upper end of the tamper-evident ring member, - two cam recesses wherein each cam recess is positioned opposite a respective cam ramp at the lower edge of the skirt each having a second ramp profile which is angled with respect to the main axis to interact with the first ramp profile, wherein - upon first time opening of the closure assembly by rotation of the cap body relative to the article about the main axis - the first and second ramp profiles interact in order to cause axial displacement of the cap body with respect to the tamper-evident ring member. This embodiment is especially beneficial when the cap body is embodied as a snap cap, wherein an interior side of the skirt and the exterior side of the neck are provided with cooperating snap-fit portions that allow to snap-fit the cap body on the neck portion. For example, the cap body is placed back on the neck after the first time removal of the cap body, wherein the snap-fit portions releasably secure the cap body to the neck. In an embodiment, the cooperating cam ramps and recesses allow a user to only rotate the cap body in one direction with respect to the tamper-evident ring member.

[0023] In an embodiment, the cam ramps have a considerable height at their highest point, e.g. between 1.5 and 2.5 millimetres, e.g. between 1.75 - 2.25 millimetres, relative to their lowest point. This allows to achieve a significant axial displacement of the cap body which aids in breaking the bridges. This may allow for the bridges to be designed sufficiently strong to remain intact during the assembly.

[0024] Preferably, the axial displacement of the cap body is such that the snap-fit portion of the cap body moves axially past the snap-fit portion of the neck, such that the cap body is easily removable from the neck by a user.

[0025] In an embodiment, each cam ramp is connected via a breakable bridge to the skirt.

[0026] In an embodiment, each cam ramp and associated cam recess has a vertical torque load surface. In embodiments, a breakable bridge connects the vertical torque load surfaces of the respective cam ramp and the cam recess to each other. During the assembly of the closure assembly these torque load surfaces transmit the rotational force or torque from the cap body, e.g. driven by the screwing machine, to the tamper-evident ring. Herein, securing the cap is preferably done so that the load is transmitted from the one vertical torque load surface on the cap as pressure onto the other vertical torque load surface, which effectively pushes the tamper-evident ring forward on so reduces stress on the breakable bridge. For example, the securing motion is clockwise. In an embodiment, the retention windows are aligned substantially parallel with the first axis of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring.

[0027] In an embodiment, the retention windows are elongated and have a length between 3 - 7 millimetres, preferably between 4 - 6 millimetres, more preferably 5 millimetres. The retention members are dimensioned to fit snugly into the windows.

[0028] In an embodiment, the tamper-evident ring member has a circular shape at the upper end thereof, wherein the tamper-evident ring member gradually transitions from the oblong shape at the lower end thereof to the circular shape at the upper end of the tamper-evident ring member.

[0029] In an embodiment, the two cam ramps, at least part thereof, are arranged above the respective retention windows.

[0030] In an embodiment, the two retention members are diametrically opposed, and the retention windows are diametrically opposed.

[0031] In an embodiment, the cap is configured to be engaged by a screwing machine, e.g. the screwing machine being configured to perform an axial and rotational securing movement of the cap with respect to the neck, so a helical securing motion. In an alternative embodiment, the cap is configured to be secured to the neck by the securing motion including an axial motion followed by a rotational movement of a 90 degrees turn of the cap with respect to the neck.

[0032] In an embodiment, the article is embodied as a spout, wherein the spout comprises a spout base and a neck. As known in the art, the spout base may be configured to be heat-sealed to a container, e.g. to a pouch or a carton. The integrally moulded neck may protrude upward from the spout base.

[0033] In an embodiment, the cap body comprises grip enhancing feature, e.g. ribs at its outer circumference or a handle portion, or diametrically opposed wing portions as is known in the art.

[0034] In an embodiment, the cap body comprises an annular gripping ring which extends about the cap body skirt, wherein the annular gripping is integral with the skirt via a spoke structure including one or more spoke portions, e.g. wherein the one or more spoke portions each extend radially and in a vertical plane between the skirt and the gripping ring. In an embodiment, the annular gripping ring is embodied as a circular gripping ring, e.g. wherein a lower end of the gripping ring has a smaller diameter than an upper end of the gripping ring. The diameter of the gripping ring may gradually increase from the lower end towards the upper end of the gripping ring.

[0035] In an embodiment, the gripping ring is embodied as an annular, yet non-circular gripping ring, e.g. an oblong gripping ring or a rectangular gripping ring or a triangular gripping ring or a multi-sided gripping ring, e.g. octagonal or hexagonal.

[0036] In an embodiment, a lower end of the annular gripping ring is located at a level which is higher than a plane perpendicular through the upper end of the tamper-evident ring member, e.g. the vertical distance to the upper end of the tamper-evident ring member being between 5 - 15 millimetres.

[0037] In an embodiment, the cap is further provided with an integral tether, wherein the tether is at one end integrally moulded to the tamper-evident ring member and at the other end thereof integrally moulded to the cap body. The present invention is particularly beneficial for a closure assembly provided with a tether, as the tamper-evident ring member is locked in both the axial and rotational direction with respect to the neck by the cooperating retention windows and members. The tether will thus always remain at the same location relative to the neck, which leads to a more predictable user experience.

[0038] In an embodiment, the tether is integrally moulded to the annular gripping ring of the cap body, e.g. to a lower edge of the annular gripping ring or to the lower edge of a spoke portion.

[0039] In an embodiment, the tether - prior to a user removing the cap body - comprises an undulating tether section having elongated tether portions, e.g. three vertically oriented elongated tether portions, wherein successive elongated tether portions are connected to each other by a bending portion.

[0040] For example, the tether is located, seen in side view, between the tamper-evident ring member and the lower end of the gripping ring or the spoke portion.

[0041] For example, in a top view, the tether is located inside of the contour of the annular gripping ring. Preferably, the tether extends in a vertical plane that is in common with one of the spoke portions.

[0042] In an embodiment, the neck of the article is provided with a horizontal flange structure which, e.g., has an upper and a lower horizontal flange. The upper and lower horizontal flanges both extend radially outward from the neck. Preferably, the horizontal flanges extend further radially from the main axis than the tamper-evident ring member when the cap is secured to the neck of the article. In embodiments, the horizontal flanges - when seen in top view - are of a non-circular cross-sectional shape.

[0043] In an embodiment, the lower horizontal flange is located at a vertical level above the spout base, and the upper horizontal flange is located at a vertical level above the lower horizontal flange. In an embodiment a pair of parallel walls extend between the lower and upper horizontal flange, wherein the two walls are tangent to the neck.

[0044] The present invention also relates to a container, e.g. for containing a liquid, e.g. a beverage, a food product, etc., wherein the container comprises the closure assembly described herein. Preferably, the container comprises a collapsible pouch. For example, the article is a spout which is heat-sealed to the container.

[0045] The present invention further relates to a method for assembling the closure assembly described herein, or a container comprising the closure assembly described herein. The method comprises moving the cap in a securing motion which comprises both an axial and a rotational movement along and about the main axis of the neck so as to establish a snap-fit connection between the retention members and the retention windows.

[0046] In an embodiment, a screwing machine is used to provide the securing motion of the cap, preferably wherein a constant axial pitch is used.

[0047] The present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings: Fig. 1 shows a front view of the closure assembly,

[0048] Fig. 2 shows a vertical cross-section of the closure assembly.

[0049] Figs. 3a-c show a horizontal cross-section of the closure assembly,

[0050] Figs. 4a-b show a front view of the separated article and cap,

[0051] Figs. 5a-d show different views of the closure assembly,

[0052] Fig 6 shows an enlarged view of the closure assembly,

[0053] Fig. 7 shows an enlarged view of the retention member. Figure 1 shows the closure assembly 1 which comprises an article 10 and a cap 50.

[0054] The article 10 is moulded of a plastic material and is here embodied as a spout, which comprises a spout base 15 and a neck 11 around a product passage 12, shown in Figure 2. The neck 11 is integrally moulded to the spout base 15 and protrudes upwards.

[0055] The neck has a main axis 13 and forms a mouth at the top end of the product passage 12. The neck 11 generally has a circular cross section, wherein the centre of the circular cross section coincides with the main axis 13 of the neck 11.

[0056] The cap 50 is provided with the integrated tamper-evident ring member 60 and is moulded of a plastic material.

[0057] The cap 50 is secured on the neck 11 of the article 10 by means of a securing motion which comprises both an axial and rotational component along and about the main axis 13.

[0058] The cap 50 comprises a cap body 51 which has a top wall structure 52 and a downward depending skirt 53. The skirt has a lower edge 53a remote from the top wall structure 52. The cap body 51 seals the product passage 12 in a closed position of the cap body on the neck 11.

[0059] The top wall structure 52, in this example, comprises an indentation 52a and a central protrusion 52b to form a W-seal, which seals onto the inside of the neck. Other designs are possible as well for the cap body, e.g. the top wall structure, and the sealing onto the neck. For example, the cap body seals both on the interior and the exterior side of the neck, and / or on top of the neck.

[0060] The cap 50 is a snap cap and is adapted to be manually removed from the neck 11 of the article 10 by a user to open the product passage 12.

[0061] The tamper-evident ring member 60 is integrally formed to the lower edge of the skirt 53a of the cap and is connected to the lower edge via breakable bridges 61 a, b.

[0062] The tamper-evident ring member 60 has a lower end 60a and an upper end 60b. The lower end of the tamper-evident ring member 60a has an oblong shape with a first axis a1 corresponding to a largest dimension of the oblong shape and a second axis a2 corresponding to a smallest dimension of the oblong shape.

[0063] The oblong shape of at least the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member 60a may be an oval as shown here in the drawings. In embodiments, the oval shape could be an ellipse. Other oblong shapes are also possible to embody the inventive closure assembly.

[0064] The largest dimension of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member a1 may be between 10 - 30% larger, preferably between 20 - 25% larger, than the smallest dimension of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member a2.

[0065] In embodiments, the largest dimension of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member a1 may be between 15 - 25 millimetres, e.g. between 17 - 20 millimetres.

[0066] In embodiments, the smallest dimension of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member a2 may be between 10 - 20 millimetres, e.g. between 13 - 17 millimetres.

[0067] In embodiments, the distance between the outer ends of the retention members a3 may be between 10 - 20 millimetres, e.g. between 13 - 17 millimetres.

[0068] It is noted that dimensions may, of course, be different, e.g. depending on the size of the product passage, etc.

[0069] The neck 11 is provided with two opposed outwardly protruding retention members 14. These members 14 are integrally moulded to the neck. A retention members axis a3 extends through outer ends of the retention members 14.

[0070] The tamper-evident ring member 60 is provided with two opposed retention windows 62, here arranged along., i.e. parallel to, the second axis a2.

[0071] Each retention window 62 is configured to retain therein a respective one of the retention members 14, such that the tamper-evident ring 60 is axially and rotationally fixed with respect to the neck 11. So, once a retention member 14 is snapped into a window 62, the tamper- evident ring member cannot be rotated in any direction and cannot be moved up and down. The distance between the retention members outer ends along the axis a3 is larger than the smallest dimension along the axis a2 and smaller than the largest dimension along the axis a1 of the oval lower end of the tamper-evident ring member 60a.

[0072] As shown in Figure 3a, the oval shape of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member 60a allows the retention members 14 to be located inside of the contour of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member 60a. When the first axis a1 is approximately aligned with the retention member axis a3, the retention members 14 will be located inside of the oval contour of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member 60a, this allows the tamper-evident ring member 60 to move axially downward and past the retention members.

[0073] As shown, the cap body of the closure assembly 1 is embodied as a snap cap, wherein an interior side of the skirt 53 and the exterior side of the neck 11 are provided with cooperating snap-fit portions 56a, b that allow to snap-fit the cap body 51 on the neck 11. Here the neck is provided with protrusions 56a, while the skirt is locally decreased in diameter 56b, wherein when the cap body 51 is placed back on the neck 11 after the first time removal of the cap body, the snap-fit portions 56a, b removable secure the cap body to the neck.

[0074] For example, when a screwing machine is used to assemble the closure assembly, the screwing machine imparts a combined constant rotational and axial securing motion, so a helical securing motion. The constant rotational component of the securing motion ensures that the first axis a1 of the oval lower end of the tamper-evident ring member 60a will at some point line up with the retention member axis a3, shown in Figure 3a. The constant axial component of the securing motion will then ensure that the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member will move past the retention members. This happens while the cap 50 rotates further, such that portions of the inside surface of the oval lower end of the tamper-evident ring member come into contact with the outer ends of the retention members 14, as shown in Figure 3b. When the cap is further rotated and moved downward, the retention members 14 elastically deform the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member 60a until a snap-fit connection is established between the retention members 14 and the retention windows 62. When this snap-fit connection is established, the elastically deformed section of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member regains its original non-deformed shape, as shown in Figure 3c.

[0075] As can be seen in figure 3c, if the second axis a2 would be substantially aligned with the retention members axis a3, the retention members 14 will block a downward axial movement of the cap 50 over the members 14. Due to the distance between the outer ends of the retention members 14 being larger than the smallest dimension along the second axis a2 of the oval lower end of the tamper-evident ring member 60a, it is not possible to secure the cap on the members 14 by a purely axial securing motion. By requiring a combined axial and rotational securing motion along and about the central axis, it is ensured that a snap-fit connection is established between the retention member and the retention windows.

[0076] The retention windows 62 of the tamper-evident ring member are aligned with the first axis a1 and are located at the points which between them correspond to the smallest dimension of the lower end 60a of the tamper-evident ring member 60, e.g. the retention points are arranged at the respective points where the second axis a2 intersect the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member 60a. When the cap 50 is secured to the neck 11, the second axis a2 is aligned with the retention members axis a3, as shown in Figure 3a.

[0077] The retention members 14 and retention windows 62 are angled with respect to the main axis 13 of the neck. The angle of the retention members 14 and retention windows 62 is the same, preferably the angle corresponding to the pitch of the helical screw motion, e.g. being between 80 - 85 degrees with respect to the main axis 13. The angle of the retention members and retention windows aids the establishment of the snap-fit connection during the securing motion, e.g. when the motion is helical by a screwing machine.

[0078] The retention members 14 may have a radial extension relative to the neck of between 0,5 - 2 millimetres, e.g. between 0,75 - 1 ,25 millimetres. The radial extension of the retention members 14 ensures that the cap 50 cannot be secured by a purely axial securing movement and it also ensures that a user is not capable of inadvertently removing the tamper-evident ring member from the neck of the article.

[0079] A retention member 14 is shown in Figure 7. The entire retention member protrudes outward and an outer end thereof has a substantially uniform radial extension with respect to the neck, e.g. the outer ends of the retention members form a substantially straight wall, i.e. there is no ramp feature where the radial extension of the retention member gradually increases. This enhances that once the retention member is retained within a respective one of the retention windows 62, the tamper-evident ring member is not able to be rotated in either rotational direction, as well as moved in axial direction with respect to the neck 11.

[0080] As can be seen in Figure 3a, when the first axis a1 and the retention members axis a3 are aligned, a clearance or spacing is present between the outer ends of the retention members and an inner surface of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member. This enhances a gradual elastic deformation of the tamper-evident ring member by the retention members and ensures that the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member 60a can move axially downward and over the retention members 14.

[0081] As is shown in Figure 6, the cap 50 further comprises:

[0082] - two cam ramps 54 integrally moulded with the tamper-evident ring member 60 and each having a first ramp profile which is angled with respect to the main axis 13, which cam ramps 54 are arranged at the upper end of the tamper-evident ring member 60b,

[0083] - two cam recesses 55 wherein each cam recess 54 is positioned opposite a respective cam ramp 54 at the lower edge of the skirt 53a each having a second ramp profile which is angled with respect to the main axis 13 to interact with the first ramp profile.

[0084] Upon first time opening of the closure assembly by rotation of the cap body 51 relative to the article 10 about the main axis 13, the first and second ramp profiles interact in order to cause axial displacement of the cap body 51 with respect to the tamper-evident ring member 60. Herein the axial displacement facilitates the release of the snap connection of the cap body relative to the neck and for the breakable bridges 61a, b to be broken.

[0085] The cam ramps 54 have a considerable height at their highest point which may, in embodiments, be between 1.5 and 2.5 millimetres. The ramp height creates a significant axial displacement of the cap body, e.g. an axial displacement at least sufficient to push the snap- fit portion of the cap 56b past the snap-fit portion of the spout 56a, releasing the cap for easy removal by the user.

[0086] Each cam ramp 54 is connected via a breakable bridge 61b to the skirt.

[0087] Each cam ramp 54 and cam recess 55 has a vertical torque load surface 54a, 55a. One breakable bridge 61b connects the vertical torque load surfaces of the respective cam ramp and the cam recess 54a, 55a to each other.

[0088] The cooperating cam recesses and ramps 54,54 allow for a user to rotate the cap body 51 with respect to the neck 11 in a removal rotational direction, wherein the cap body 51 rotates with respect to the tamper-evident ring member 60 and the breakable bridges 61 a, b break. Due to the vertical torque load surface 54a, 55a, the cam recesses and ramps block a rotation of the cap body with respect to the tamper-evident ring member in the other direction. The retention windows 62 are substantially parallel to the first axis a1 of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring 60a.

[0089] The retention windows 62 may have a length between 3 - 7 millimetres, e.g. between 4 - 6 millimetres.

[0090] The two cam ramps 54, at least part thereof, are arranged above the respective retention windows 62.

[0091] The tamper-evident ring member has a circular shape 60 at the upper end 60b thereof, wherein the tamper-evident ring member gradually transitions from the oval shape at the lower end 60a thereof to the circular shape at the upper end 60b of the tamper-evident ring member.

[0092] The two retention members 14 are diametrically opposed and the retention windows 62 are diametrically opposed.

[0093] The cap body, in this example, further comprises an annular gripping ring 70 which extends about the cap body skirt 53, the annular gripping 70 is integral with the skirt 53 via a spoke structure including spoke portions 71 , here four spoke portions.

[0094] The spoke portions 71 each extend radially and in a vertical plane between the skirt 53 and the gripping ring 70.

[0095] The annular gripping ring 70 is a circular gripping ring.

[0096] It is shown here, that the lower end of the gripping ring 70a has a substantially smaller diameter than an upper end of the gripping ring 70b. The diameter of the gripping ring gradually increases from the lower end 70a towards the upper end 70b of the gripping ring.

[0097] The lower end of the annular gripping ring 70a is located at a level above the upper end of the tamper-evident ring member 60, e.g. the vertical distance between the tamper-evident ring member being between 5 - 15 millimetres.

[0098] The cap 50 is further provided with a tether 100. The tether 100 is at one end 100a integrally moulded to the tamper-evident ring member 60 and at the other end thereof integrally moulded to the lower edge 70c of the annular gripping ring 70 of the cap body 51 or, in another embodiment a lower end of a spoke portion.

[0099] The tether 100 - prior to a user removing the cap body - comprises an undulating tether section having vertically oriented elongated tether portions 101 , here three portions 101. Successive tether portions 101 are connected to each other by a bending portion 102.

[0100] The tether is, seen in side view, arranged between a plane perpendicular to the main axis 13 and through the upper end of the tamper-evident ring member 60 and a parallel plane through the lower end of the annular gripping ring 70.

[0101] In top view, the tether 100 is located inside of the contour of the annular gripping ring 70.

[0102] As shown and as preferred, the tether 100 extends in the same vertical plane as one of the spoke portions 71. This is visible also in Figure 5d.

[0103] The neck of the article 11 is provided with a horizontal flange structure 16 which here has a lower horizontal flange 16a and an upper horizontal flange 16b. The upper and lower horizontal flanges 16a, b both extend radially outward from the neck 11. The horizontal flanges 16a, b extend further radially from the main axis 13 than the tamper-evident ring member 60 when the cap is secured to the neck of the article. The horizontal flanges 16a,b - when seen in top view - are of a non-circular cross-sectional shape.

[0104] The lower horizontal flange 16a here is located at a vertical level above the spout base 15, and the upper horizontal flange 16b is located at a vertical level above the lower horizontal flange 16a. Two parallel walls extend between the lower and upper horizontal flanges, wherein the two walls are tangent to the neck.

[0105] When the cap 50 is secured to the neck 11 of the article, the established snap-fit connection between the retention members 14 and retention windows 62 axially and rotationally fixes the tamper-evident ring member 60 relative to the neck. Upon first-time opening of the closure assembly 1 of by a user, the cap body 51 is rotated relative to the tamper-evident ring member 60 and the neck 11. The cam ramps and recesses cause an axial displacement of the cap body relative to the tamper-evident ring member which aids in breaking the breakable bridges 61a, b between the tamper-evident ring member 60 and the lower end of the skirt 53a of the cap body 50, allowing a user to remove the cap body from the neck. The tamper- evident ring member, due to the permanent snap-fit connection between the retention members and windows 14, 62, remains secured to the neck and in place. The tether 100 between the cap body 51 and the tamper-evident ring member 60 ensures that the cap body 51 remains attached to the tamper-evident ring member 60.

Claims

C L A I M S1. A closure assembly (1) comprising an article (10) and a cap (50) which is provided with an integrated tamper-evident ring member (60), wherein:- the article (10) is made, e.g. moulded, of a plastic material and forms a neck (11) around a product passage (12) in the article, the neck having a main axis (13) and forming a mouth at a top end of the product passage,- the cap (50) provided with the integrated tamper-evident ring member (60) is moulded of a plastic material and is adapted to be secured or is secured on the neck (11) of the article by means of a securing motion which comprises both an axial and a rotational component along and about the main axis (13), wherein the cap (50) comprises a cap body (51) with a top wall structure (52) and a downward depending skirt (53), the skirt having a lower edge remote from the top wall structure, wherein the cap body (51) is adapted to seal the product passage in a closed position of the cap body (51) on the neck, and wherein the cap body (51) is adapted to be manually removed from the neck of the article by a user to open the product passage, wherein the tamper-evident ring member (60) is integrally formed to the lower edge of the skirt (53) and connected to the lower edge via one or more breakable bridges (61 a, b), wherein the tamper-evident ring member (60) has an upper end (60b) and a lower end (60a), wherein the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member has an oblong shape with a first axis (a1) and a second axis (a2), wherein the first axis (a1) corresponds to a largest dimension of the oblong shape and the second axis (a2) corresponds to a smallest dimension of the oblong shape, wherein the neck is provided with two opposed outwardly protruding retention members (14), wherein a retention members axis (a3) extends through outer ends of the retention members, and wherein the tamper-evident ring member is provided with two opposed retention windows (62) arranged at the second axis (a2), each retention window (62) being configured to retain therein a respective one of the retention members (14), such that the tamper-evident ring (60) is axially and rotationally fixed with respect to the neck,wherein the distance between the outer ends of the two retention members (14) is larger than the smallest dimension of the oblong shape and smaller than the largest dimension of the oblong shape of the lower end (60b) of the tamper-evident ring member (60).

2. Closure assembly according to claim 1, wherein the cap body (51) is embodied as a snap cap, wherein an interior side of the skirt (53) and an exterior side of the neck (11) are provided with cooperating snap-fit portions (56a, b) which allow to snap-fit the cap body (51) on the neck (11).

3. Closure assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cap (50) comprises:- a cam ramp (54) integrally moulded with the tamper-evident ring member (60) and having a first ramp profile, preferably two cam ramps (54) on opposite sides of the tamper-evident ring member (60), wherein each cam ramp is arranged at the upper end (60a) of the tamper- evident ring member,- a cam recess (55) positioned opposite to a respective cam ramp (54) at the lower edge of the skirt (53), each cam recess having a second ramp profile to interact with the first ramp profile, wherein - upon first time opening of the closure assembly including a rotation of the cap body (52) relative to the article about the main axis (13) - the first and second ramp profiles interact in order to cause axial displacement of the cap body with respect to the tamper-evident ring member, preferably, wherein the axial displacement of the cap body is such that a snap-fit portion of the cap body moves axially past a snap-fit portion (56a) of the neck.

4. Closure assembly according to claim 3, wherein each cam ramp (54) is integrally connected to the skirt via a breakable bridge (61b).

5. Closure assembly according to claim 3 or 4, wherein each cam ramp and cam recess have a vertical torque load surface, wherein a breakable bridge connects the vertical torque load surfaces of the respective cam ramp and the cam recess to each other.

6. Closure assembly according to any one or more of claims 1 - 5, wherein the retention windows are substantially parallel to the first axis (a1) of the lower end (60b) of the tamper- evident ring.

7. Closure assembly according to any one or more of claims 1 - 6, wherein the tamper- evident ring member (60) has a circular shape at the upper end (60a) thereof, wherein thetamper-evident ring member gradually transitions from the oblong shape at the lower end thereof to the circular shape at the upper end of the tamper-evident ring member.

8. Closure assembly according to any one or more of claims 1 - 7, wherein the cap is further provided with a tether (100), wherein the tether is at one end connected to the tamper- evident ring member (60) and at the other end thereof connected to the cap body (51), e.g. to an annular gripping ring (70) of the cap body.

9. Closure assembly according to any one or more of claims 1 - 8, wherein the cap (50) is configured to be secured on the neck by a helical securing motion.

10. Closure assembly according to any one or more of claims 1 - 9, wherein the retention members (14) and the retention windows (62) are angled with respect to the main axis (13) of the neck, e.g. at an angle of 80 - 85 degrees with respect to the main axis.

11. Closure assembly according to any one or more of claims 1 - 8, wherein the cap is configured to be secured on the neck by the securing motion including a pure axial motion followed by a pure rotational motion, e.g. followed by a 90 degrees turn of the cap with respect to the neck.

12. Closure assembly according to any one or more of claims 1 - 11 , wherein the largest dimension of the oblong shape of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member is between 10 - 30% larger, preferably between 20 - 25% larger, than the smallest dimension of the oblong shape of the lower end of the tamper-evident ring member.

13. A container, e.g. comprising a collapsible pouch, for containing a liquid, e.g. a beverage, wherein the container comprises the closure assembly (1) according to any one or more of claims 1 - 12.

14. A method for assembling a closure assembly according to any one or more of claims 1 - 12, or a container according to claim 13, wherein the method comprises moving the cap in a securing motion which comprises both an axial and a rotational component along and about the main axis of the neck, so as to establish a snap-fit connection between the retention members (14) and the retention windows (16).

15. Method according to claim 14, wherein a screwing machine is used to provide the securing motion of the cap.

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