Fiber molded push down flip cap

Abstract

The present invention concerns an opening device made from cellulose-based fiber material for a container, wherein the opening device comprises a base comprising a flange, a flange lower surface for attachment to an outside surface and for surrounding a breakable section of the container and means for breaking the breakable section.

Description

[0001] Title

[0002] Fiber molded push down flip cap

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The present invention relates to an opening device comprising a pour spout and a cap which both are made from cellulose fibers. In particular, the present invention relates to an opening device for attachment to a container where the cap is permanently attached to the pour spout via a hinge portion.

[0005] The invention also relates to an assembly comprising a package and opening device comprising a pour spout and a cap which both are made from cellulose fibers. In particular the invention relates to an assembly where the package is paper or paperboard based.

[0006] Background for the invention

[0007] A paper or paperboard-based package is sometimes referred to as a carton and is commonly used to distribute pourable products such as liquid consumables, e.g. dairy products or fruit juices.

[0008] A package or carton is typically produced from a laminate packaging material, which typically comprises a multi-ply paper or paperboard sheet onto which there is laminated one or a plurality of barrier layers for holding the pourable product, e.g. a liquid, and / or prevent migration of air and flavour degrading substances through the paper or paperboard sheet. A barrier layer may typically comprise a polyethylene or an aluminum layer although other types of barrier materials are also used such as metal oxides and high-density paper.

[0009] For protecting the contents of a package or carton it is important that the package or carton is thoroughly sealable. For accessing the contents, it is important that the package or container is provided with means for opening that is functional from the point of view of a consumer. This includes being suitable for pouring the contents in case the package comprises liquid content. The package may also be re-closable for practical reasons and the device should have durability sufficient to last as long as necessary for the consumer to empty the package or carton.

[0010] Typically pour spouts and caps made from plastics have been used for this purpose. However, in recent years a growing focus on the environment and plastic waste has seen producers shift away from loose plastic caps. One effort to provide more environmentally friendly opening devices has been tethered plastic caps to reduce plastic waste. Another has been to omit opening devices and supply containers with breakable portions which the consumer may push down with a finger to access the contents of the container. However, this may risk contamination of the contents of the container and may not give the consumer the option to reclose the container thereby compromising the shelf life of the product.

[0011] In EP4367034A1 some efforts have been made to address this challenge by for example providing a sheet cover for the consumer to push down upon and reclose by use of an adhesive.

[0012] However, this approach may not be a satisfying solution in all scenarios for a consumer. There is therefore a need for new environmentally sustainable opening devices for containers. The opening devices described herein aims to mitigate at least some of the drawbacks of known devices.

[0013] Summary of the invention

[0014] The present invention is set forth and characterized in the independent claims, while the dependent claims describe other characteristics and advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0015] In a first aspect as described herein it is provided an opening device made from cellulose-based fiber material for a container, wherein the opening device comprises a base comprising a flange and a flange lower surface for attachment to an outside surface of the container and for surrounding a breakable section of the container, a pour spout defining a through-hole through the base, and a lid configured for being brought from a closed position where the lid covers the through-hole, and an open position where the lid is removed from the through-hole, the lid comprising a plug configured to sealingly engage with the pour spout when the opening device is in the closed position, wherein the plug comprises a plunger section, a curved or arced expandable plug portion configured for axial movement allowing the plunger section, when the opening device is in the closed position, to be brought from a retracted configuration where the plunger section is confined within the pour spout to an expanded position where the plunger section protrudes through the through-hole.

[0016] The axially expandable plug portion may surround the plunger section or the axially expandable plug portion may be a portion of the plug that is the same portion of the plug as the plunger section, i.e. that the plunger section is an axially expandable portion, for example a curved or dome shaped section that allows for axial expansion.

[0017] The lid may be attached to the base via a hinge such that the lid may pivot about the hinge and alternate between the closed and open position.

[0018] The material of the expandable plug portion may display a substantially uniform cross-sectional thickness.

[0019] The plunger section may be offset towards a side of the plug. This may be beneficial for focusing an applied force to the plunger section at a side of the breakable section, i.e close to a weakened part of the breakable section. This may be helpful in providing a clean break of the breakable section with use of less force compared to when the plunger section is centered on to the breakable section such that an even distribution of force is achieved.

[0020] In one example the plunger section is offset towards a side of the plug that is substantially opposite of the side where the hinge attaches the lid to the base. The plunger section may for example be offset between 160°-200°, 170°-190°, 175°-185° or 180° from the side where the hinge attaches the lid to the base.

[0021] In one example the plug comprises a fastening area which is permanently fastened to at least a portion of the breakable section. The fastening area may cover the entire plunger section or may cover parts of the plunger section. In one example the fastening area is adjacent to the plunger section. The fastening area may typically be fastened with a suitable glue to the breakable section.

[0022] In one example the plunger section is not fastened to the breakable section.

[0023] The plunger section may form a cavity between the breakable section and the plug.

[0024] The breakable section may be configured to tear completely from the container when the lid is brought to the open position for the first time, and wherein the pour spout comprises a pour spout lip which is configured to interact with the breakable section for keeping the lid in the open position.

[0025] The through-hole may define a plane P that is substantially level with and parallel with the flange, and wherein the pour spout extends at an angle of about 15°-90°, 20°- 85°, 25°-80°, 30°-75° or 35°-75° outwards from the through-hole when measured from the plane P.

[0026] In one example the opening device is molded in one piece and the plunger section is an integral part of the lid.

[0027] In one example the hinge comprises a hinge lower portion connected to the base, and a hinge upper portion connected to the lid, wherein the hinge upper portion comprises hinge upper portion edges configured to rest upon the hinge lower portion when the lid is in the open position, for securing the lid in the open position. The lid may comprise at least one internal lid protrusion configured for interaction with the pour spout lip for securing the lid in the closed position.

[0028] The pour spout may comprise a securing notch located externally on the pour spout configured for interaction with the lid outer edge for securing the lid in the closed position.

[0029] In one example the opening device comprises an inner wall, and an outer wall, wherein the perimeter of the inner wall defines the through hole and the outer wall is arranged concentrically outside the inner wall.

[0030] The flange may comprise a lower surface and an upper surface opposite to the lower surface. The flange lower surface may comprise a base recess for accommodating fastening to the container. A larger portion of glue may be used.

[0031] The base recess may comprise at least one base recess channel for accommodating flow of excess glue.

[0032] In one example the fastening area is recessed for accommodating fastening to the breakable section of the container.

[0033] In one example the opening device the fastening area comprises at least one fastening area recess channel for accommodating flow of excess glue.

[0034] The pour spout may comprise an internal pour spout recess for interacting with a structure on the lid for keeping the opening device in a closed position.

[0035] The hinge may comprise at least one hinge cut that may modulate the resilience of the hinge to pivot. Also cuts may help the hinge fold flat when the lid is in the closed position.

[0036] In one example the opening device comprises a lid recess at least partially surrounding the outer perimeter of the plug configured for interaction with a base protrusion, wherein the base protrusion at least partially surrounding the pour spout and at least partially coinciding with the lid recess for keeping the opening device in a closed position.

[0037] In one example the opening device the plunger section is plastically deformable and configured to remain in a collapsed state after opening of the container for the first time. This may provide tamper evidence, i.e. proof that the container has been opened for the first time.

[0038] In a second aspect as described herein is an opening device made from cellulose- based fiber material for a container, wherein the opening device comprises a base comprising a flange, a flange lower surface for attachment to an outside surface and for surrounding a breakable section of the container, a through-hole defined by an inner perimeter of the flange, a flange upper surface opposing the flange lower surface, a pour spout extending from the flange upper surface and surrounding the through-hole, and a lid comprising a pressing area configured for axial movement located on the outside surface of the lid and within the axially expandable lid portion, a plunger configured for axial movement located on the inside surface of the lid and substantially coinciding with the pressing area, wherein the lid is configured for being brought from a closed position where the lid covers the spout and the plunger at least partially covers the through-hole to an open position where the lid is removed from the spout and the plunger is removed from the through-hole, wherein the pressing area is connected to the lid via a curved, waved or arced axially expandable lid portion which allows for axial expansion of the lid when a force is applied to the pressing area allowing the plunger to be brought from a first position where the plunger is disposed within the opening device, and a second position where the plunger protrudes at least partly through the through- hole.

[0039] In one example of the opening device the lid is attached to the base via a hinge which ensures that the lid does not get lost.

[0040] The material of the axially expandable lid-portion may display a substantially uniform cross-sectional thickness.

[0041] At least a portion of the plunger may be fastened to at least a portion of the breakable section. The plunger may for example be fastened by gluing to the breakable section for example by using a polymer-based glue. Preferably the fastening is sufficiently robust such that the breakable section will stay fastened to the plunger when the lid is brought to an open position by a user.

[0042] The opening device may be configured such that the breakable section may interact with a pour spout lip for keeping the lid in an open position after the breakable section has been broken for the first time. This is convenient for keeping the opening device out of the way when the contents of the container is accessed for example by pouring.

[0043] The lid may comprise a second axially expandable lid portion arranged within the perimeter of the axially expandable lid portion and the second axially expandable lid portion may comprise a second pressing area located on the lid outside surface, and a second plunger substantially coinciding with the second pressing area, wherein the second axial expandable lid portion may be configured for axial expansion when a force is applied to the second pressing area and thereby allow the second plunger to be brought from a first position where the second plunger is disposed within the opening device, and a second position where the second plunger protrudes at least partly through the through-hole.

[0044] The second plunger may partly or fully protrude through the through-hole when in the second position as long as the second plunger is able to break at least a part of the breakable section of the container.

[0045] The second plunger may be of the same size as the second pressing area or smaller or larger than the pressing area.

[0046] The second pressing area may display a cavity and the second plunger may display a corresponding bulge on the opposite side of the lid. The bulge may help in focusing the pressure of the second plunger onto a part of the breakable section for optimizing breaking.

[0047] The second expandable lid portion may be offset towards a side of the expandable lid portion. For example to the side substantially opposite of the location of the hinge portion. For example within a range of 160°-200°, 170°-190°, 175°-195° or 180° opposite from the hinge.

[0048] The second plunger may not be fastened to the breakable section.

[0049] The through-hole may define a plane P, and the pour spout may extend at an angle of about 15°-90°, 20°-85°, 25°-80°, 30°-75° or 35°-75° outwards from the through-hole when measured from the plane P. This configuration may help to minimize the amount of residual fluid between the opening device and the container after pouring.

[0050] The plunger may be fastened to the lid for example by gluing. This may be a flexible way of producing an opening device.

[0051] The opening device may in another example be molded in one piece and the plunger may then be an integral part of the lid.

[0052] The hinge may comprise a hinge lower portion connected to the base, and a hinge upper portion connected to the lid, and the hinge upper portion may comprise hinge upper portion edges configured to rest upon the hinge lower portion when the lid is in the open position, for securing the lid in the open position.

[0053] In another example the hinge may comprise a hinge lower portion connected to the base, and a hinge upper portion connected to the lid, and the hinge upper portion may comprise a hinge tab configured for being brought from a first position when the lid is in the closed position in which the hinge tab does not abut against the hinge lower portion, and a second position where lid is in the open position and the hinge tab has been brought through a cut or through-hole in the hinge upper portion for resting upon the hinge lower portion, thereby supporting the lid in the open position.

[0054] The lid may comprise at least one lid protrusion internally in the lid configured for interaction with the pour spout lip for securing the lid in the closed position.

[0055] The pour spout may comprise a securing notch located externally on the pour spout configured for interaction with the lid outer edge for securing the lid in the closed position.

[0056] The pour spout may comprise an inner wall, and an outer wall, where the perimeter of the inner wall may define the through-hole and the outer wall is arranged concentrically outside the inner wall. This configuration may allow the inner wall of the pour spout to be close to the through hole and therefore also the opening created when the breakable section is broken. This may result in minimal residual liquid after pouring from the container.

[0057] The flange lower surface may comprise a base recess for accommodating fastening to the container, this may accommodate an amount of glue that could secure even better fastening of the opening device to the container.

[0058] The base recess may comprise at least one base recess channel for dispensing of excessive fastening material such as glue. There may be a plurality of channels for example 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6.

[0059] The plunger may comprise a plunger recess for accommodating fastening to the breakable section of the container, this may accommodate an amount of glue that could secure even better fastening of the plunger to the breakable section.

[0060] The opening device (100) according to claim 19, wherein the plunger recess (115) comprises at least one plunger recess channel (115). The pour spout may comprise a pour spout recess on the pour spout internal side for interacting with a structure on the lid for keeping the opening device in a closed position.

[0061] The hinge may comprise at least one hinge cut for adapting the resistance to pivoting around the hinge and / or for allowing the hinge to enter a flat state where the hinge lower portion and the hinge upper portion is folded over each other and are substantially parallel. This configuration may be referred to as a flat state. The cut prevents the hinge from bulging apart.

[0062] The pressing area may be resilient and configured to remain in a collapsed state after opening of the container for the first time and thus function as tamper evidence if the container has already been opened for the first time.

[0063] The opening device may comprise a lid recess at least partially surrounding the axially expandable portion configured for interaction with a base protrusion and the base protrusion may at least partially be surrounding the pour spout and at least partially be coinciding with the lid recess for keeping the opening device in a closed position. In one example configuration the said lid recess and base protrusion is annular or arranged in sections that coincide. In one example configuration the lid recess is a protrusion and the base protrusion is a recess.

[0064] Above-discussed preferred and / or optional features of each aspect and embodiment may be used, alone or in appropriate combination, in the other aspects and embodiments of the invention.

[0065] Brief description of the figures

[0066] Fig. 1 shows a container with a closed opening device attached.

[0067] Fig. 2a shows a side view of a closed opening device.

[0068] Fig. 2b shows a perspective view of a closed opening device.

[0069] Fig. 2c shows a perspective view of a closed opening device.

[0070] Fig. 3a shows a side view of an open opening device.

[0071] Fig. 3b shows a perspective view of an open opening device.

[0072] Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of an open opening device.

[0073] Fig. 5a shows a side view of an activated opening device

[0074] Fig. 5b shows a cross-section view of a closed opening device.

[0075] Fig. 5c shows a cross-section view of an activated opening device. Fig. 6a shows a side view of an opening device with a breakable section attached.

[0076] Fig. 6b shows a perspective view of an opening device with a breakable section attached.

[0077] Fig. 7a shows a perspective view of an open opening device.

[0078] Fig. 7b shows a perspective view of an open opening device.

[0079] Fig. 8a shows a front view of an open opening device

[0080] Fig. 8b shows a perspective view of an open opening device.

[0081] Fig. 8c shows a perspective view of an open opening device.

[0082] Fig. 8d shows a cross section of an open opening device.

[0083] Fig 9a shows a side view of a closed opening device.

[0084] Fig. 9b shows a cross-section of a closed opening device.

[0085] Fig 10a shows a perspective view of an embodiment of an open opening device.

[0086] Fig 10b shows a perspective view of an embodiment of an open opening device.

[0087] Fig 11 shows a perspective view of an open opening device.

[0088] Fig. 12a shows a container with a closed opening device attached.

[0089] Fig 12b shows a container with an open opening device attached.

[0090] Fig. 13a shows a front view of an opening device

[0091] Fig. 13b shows a perspective view of an opening device.

[0092] Fig. 13c shows a perspective view of an opening device.

[0093] Fig. 13d shows a cross section of an opening device.

[0094] Fig. 14a shows a perspective view of an opening device.

[0095] Fig. 14b shows a perspective view of an opening device.

[0096] Fig. 14c shows a cross section of an opening device.

[0097] Fig. 15a shows a perspective view of an opening device.

[0098] Fig. 15b shows a perspective view of an opening device.

[0099] Fig. 16a shows a side view of an opening device.

[0100] Fig. 16b shows a perspective view of an opening device. Detailed description of the invention

[0101] In the following, embodiments of the invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. However, it is specifically intended that the invention is not limited to the embodiments and illustrations contained herein but includes modified forms of the embodiments including portions of the embodiments and combinations of elements of different embodiments as come within the scope of the following claims.

[0102] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which, for clarity, have been described above in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which, for brevity, have been described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. In particular, it will be appreciated that features described in relation to one particular embodiment may be interchangeable with features described in relation to other embodiments.

[0103] The opening devices described herein are manufactured from cellulose based fiber material that can be obtained from for example bark, wood and leaves from plants or plant-based material. In addition to cellulose the fibers may contain hemicellulose and lignin. Different percentages of these components may alter the mechanical properties of the fibers. Suitable sources for cellulose based fiber material may for example be Radiata pine and / or Norway spruce. Other sources may also be suitable, for example algae and aquatic plants.

[0104] Plant material may be processed into a pulp containing cellulose fibers. This pulp may be convenient for producing products of various shapes for example caps. Thermoforming is one process that may be utilized for production of caps from cellulose based fiber material.

[0105] Thermoforming may be done by using wet pulp fibers. A 20 g / 1 pulp suspension may be loaded into a mold and vacuum-dewatered. After dewatering, the pulp fibers can be hot-pressed into the desired shape of the cap. The temperature during the dewatering and the hot-pressing may for example vary between 90° and 170° and the pressure may be about 50 bar.

[0106] Another process for producing the opening devices described herein is dry forming. This process is known as a method that requires little energy, e.g. compared to wet molding. In dry forming, a fiber base web is fed to a pressure molding apparatus, also known as a compression molding apparatus, and subsequently pressed to a fiber-based product. More details on this process can be found for example in WO2021 156190A1. Fig. la shows an embodiment of an opening device 100 attached to an outside surface 204 of a container 200. The opening device 100 is shown in a closed position and covers a breakable section 206 (not shown). The breakable section 206 may for example be a weakened section of a wall of the container 200. For example, an area of partial cuts, or a single partial cut, through the container outside surface 204.

[0107] Fig. 2a shows a side view of the opening device 100 which comprises a lid 110 and a base 140. The base 140 comprises a flange 141 with a flange lower surface 142 for fastening to the outside surface 204 of the container 200 covering the breakable section.

[0108] The flange lower surface 142 is substantially parallel to a plane P which will be further explained below. The opening device 100 displays a axial direction A which is perpendicular to the direction of the flange lower surface 142 and the plane P.

[0109] Fig 2b shows a perspective view of the opening device 100 in a closed position. The lid 110 comprises a plug 111 which is configured for sealingly closing a pour spout 146 (shown in fig 3a). The plug 111 comprises a plunger section 114 which is configured for movement in the axial direction A. This movement in the axial direction A is facilitated by a curved or arced axially expandable plug portion 117 that may expand in the axial direction A when a force is applied due to deformation of the expandable plug portion 117. The force may be applied via a pressing area 116. In the embodiment shown the expandable plug portion 117 coincides with the area if the plunger section 114.

[0110] Also shown is the outside surface of the lid 112.

[0111] Fig 2c shows a perspective view of the opening device from below. The inside surface of the lid 113 is shown together with the plug 111 and the plunger section 114 as seen from below. Adjacent to the plunger section 114 a fastening area 115 is located. The fastening area 115 is for fastening the opening device to the container 200 and may be recessed for accommodating a volume of glue. Also shown is the flange lower surface.

[0112] Fig. 3a shows a sideview of the opening device 100. The base 140 comprises a pour spout 146 that extends from the flange 141. The pour spout 146 defines a through- hole 143 that extends through the base 140. A plane P is defined by the through- hole 143 at the level of the flange lower portion 142. The plane P extends to infinity in space beyond the opening device 100. The opening device 100 is in the open position where the lid 110 and the plug 111 does not cover the pour spout 146 and the through-hole 143. Fig. 3b shows a perspective view of the opening device 100 in the open position. The lid 110 comprises a pull tab 118 at the outer perimeter of the lid 110 for easy opening. Also shown is the flange upper surface 144 which is opposite of the flange lower surface 142.

[0113] Fig. 4 shows the opening device 100 in a perspective view where the fastening area 115 is seen. The lid also comprises a lid annular recess 122 that can be seen as a circumferential recess around the outside of the plug 111. The lid annular recess is configured for interacting with a base protrusion 155 by snapping into place to keep the opening device 100 in the closed position. The opening device 100 may close in a sealing manner by means of a tight fit between the plug 111 and the pour spout 146.

[0114] The plunger section 114 is shown offset to the side of the lid 110 opposite of the side where the hinge 130 attaches the lid 110 to the base 140.

[0115] Fig. 5a shows a side view of the opening device in the closed position where the plunger section 114 has been activated. Activation of the plunger section 114 is done by applying a force to the plunger section 114. This causes the expandable plug portion 117 to collapse and the plunger section 114 to move in the axial direction A.

[0116] Fig 5b shows a cross section of the non-activated opening device 100 attached to the breakable section 206.

[0117] Fig 5c shows a cross section of the activated opening device 100 attached to the breakable section 206. The plunger section 114 has travelled through the through hole 143 and the breakable section 206 has been broken. The contents of the container 200 would be available to the consumer.

[0118] Figs 6a and 6b shown views of the opening device 100 where the opening device has been activated by applying force to the plunger section 114. The breakable section has been broken and completely torn from the container 200 when the lid 110 was brought to the open position. The breakable section 206 is shown to rest upon a pour spout lip 145. This configuration helps to keep the lid 110 in the open position.

[0119] The plunger section 114 is shown offset to the side of the lid 110 opposite of the side where the hinge 130 attaches the lid 110 to the base 140.

[0120] Fig 7a shows an embodiment that comprises fastening area channels 115b in fastening area 115. These channels may provide a way for excess glue to flow during fastening of the opening device 100 to a container 200. Fig 7b shows that the opening device may comprise base recess 148 and base recess channels 148b to accommodate for a volume of glue and a way for excess glue to flow during fastening of the opening device 100 to a container 200.

[0121] Fig 8a shows an embodiment of an opening device 100 in an open position. The opening device 100 comprises a base 140 and a lid 110. The lid 110 is connected to the base 140 via a hinge 130. The hinge 130 provides a pivot axis that the lid 110 may pivot about such that the lid 110 may be brought from an open position to a closed position and vice versa.

[0122] The base 140 comprises a flange 141 having a flange lower surface 142 which is adapted for fastening to the outer surface 204 of the container 200. In some examples, the flange lower surface 142covers the breakable section 206. The flange may be fastened by any means known to the skilled person such as by application of glue.

[0123] The base 140 also comprises a through-hole 143 that is defined by a pour spout 146. In some examples, it may be said that the through-hole 143 is defined by an inner perimeter of the flange 141. The through-hole 143 is adapted to at least partly coincide with the breakable section 206 of the container 200. The through-hole 143 may have a bigger, smaller or the same size cross-sectional area as the breakable section 206.

[0124] The flange 141 comprises a flange upper surface 144 that is facing the opposite way of the flange lower surface 142. A pour spout 146 is extending from the flange upper surface 144 and surrounds the through-hole 143. Note that the flange 141 extends radially towards the through-hole 143 from the pour spot 146. The opening device 100 thus has a hidden flange 141 when fastened to a container 200.

[0125] The lid 110 also comprises a plug 111 that comprises a plunger section 114. The plunger section 114 is arranged to coincide with the through-hole 143 when the opening device is in the closed position as shown in fig 9a.

[0126] The plunger section 114 is surrounded by a curved, waved or arced area 117 where the material of the plug I l l is curved, waved or arced such that it allows for the plunger section 114 to axially extend away from the lid when a force is applied to the plunger section 114 in the direction of the through-hole 143.

[0127] In some examples, it may be said that a pressing area 116 is arranged on the lid 110 at the lid outside surface 112 opposite of the plunger 114. This can be seen in Figure 8C. In some examples, it may be said that the plunger 114, and the pressing area 116 is attached to the lid 110 via the curved, waved or arced area 117 where the material of the lid 110 is curved, waved or arced such that it allows for the plunger 114 to axially extend away from the lid when a force is applied to the pressing area 116 in the direction of the through-hole 143.

[0128] The lid 110 comprises at least one lid protrusion 119 located internally in the lid and adapted for interaction with a pour spout lip 145 arranged at an end of the pour spout 146 distal from the through-hole 143. The lid may comprise a plurality of lid protrusions 119, for example 1, 2, 3, 4 or more. Interaction between the lid protrusion 119 and the pour spout lip 145 secures the lid 110 in the closed position.

[0129] Fig. 8a also shows a pour spout recess 153 that may interact with a portion of the lid 110 for keeping the lid 110 in the closed position.

[0130] Fig. 8b shows that the through-hole defines a plane P. In some examples, it may be said that a plane P is defined by the through-hole 143 at the level of the flange lower portion 142. The flange upper surface 144 generally extends in the plane P. The plane P extends to infinity in space beyond the opening device 100. When the opening device 100 is attached to a container 200 the plane P will be parallel to the wall of the container 200 to which the opening device 100 is attached to. The pour spout 146 may extend from the flange upper surface 144 at an angle of about 15°- 90°, 20°-85°, 25°-80°, 30°-75° or 35°-75° when measured from the plane P. When the angle is at or below for example 85° the residual fluid left after pouring from an open container 200 may be reduced compared to when the angle is 90°. Other beneficial angles may be about 80°, 75°, 70° or an angle in-between those values. This may be beneficial since pulp material is generally affected detrimentally by fluids which may typically be contained in a container 200 as described herein. This is especially true if the molded pulp material is not protected in some way, for example by a moisture protective coating, such as a polymer.

[0131] The opening device 100 may advantageously be arranged at a breakable section 206 such that plunger section 114 is located on the container outside surface 204 and aligned with the breakable section 206.

[0132] When pressure is applied to the plunger section 114 the curved, waved or arced plug portion 117 may deform to allow an axial movement of plunger section 114 into the through-hole 143. In some examples, this may be when pressure is applied to the pressing area 116. The plug portion 117 is adapted such that at least at full axial extent the plunger area 114 is allowed to move through plane P and thereby break the breakable section 206 when the opening device is attached to a container 200. In some example, this may be when the opening device is covering the breakable section 206. In some examples, this may be when the through-hole 143 is aligned with said breakable section 206. It is understood that the plunger section 114 may move through plane P before full axial extent of the plug portion 117 is reached. Fig 8c shows an embodiment of the opening device 100 where the hinge 130 comprises a hinge lower portion 131 connected to the base and a hinge upper portion 132 connected to the lid 110. The pivot axis of the hinge 130 is between the hinge lower portion 131 and the hinge upper portion 132. The hinge upper portion 132 displays a hinge upper portion edge 133 at least on one side on the outer perimeter of the hinge upper portion 132, optionally on both sides. When the opening device 100 is in the open position, the hinge upper portion edge 133 may be brought into a position where the hinge upper portion edge 133 is resting upon the hinge lower portion 131. This secures the lid 110 in an open position and may be convenient for a user about to pour from the container 200. The hinge upper portion edge 133 is preferably flexible and resilient such that it is possible for a user to force the upper portion edge 133 past the hinge lower portion 131 when bringing the opening device 100 from the open to the closed position and vice versa. The hinge upper portion edge 133 may be adapted to be spaced apart slightly less than the width of the hinge lower portion 131 when there is a hinge upper portion edge 133 on both sides of the hinge upper portion 132.

[0133] Also shown on Fig. 8c is a base recess 148 on the lower surface 142 of the flange

[0134] 141. The base recess 148 is adapted to allow for a volume of fastening means such as glue to be deposited therein. This may result in a greater adhesive effect to a container 200 than when no base recess 148 is present on the flange lower surface

[0135] 142. The lid may comprise a pull tab 118 located near or at the edge of the lid 110 opposite of the hinge 130 for facilitating opening of the lid 110.

[0136] Fig. 8d shows a cross section of an embodiment of the opening device 100 where the plunger section 114 comprises a fastening area 115 adapted for fastening to the breakable section 206. In some examples, the fastening area 1155 may be referred to as a plunger recess 115. The fastening area 115 may be recessed. The fastening or plunger area may be adapted to allow for a volume of fastening means such as glue to be deposited therein. This may result in a greater adhesive effect than when the plunger section 114 has no fastening area 115 that is recessed. Also shown is a view of the hinge upper portion edge 133 resting on the hinge lower portion 131 for keeping the lid 110 in the open position.

[0137] Fig. 9a shows a side view of an embodiment of the opening device 100 in a closed position and attached to a container outside surface 204 at the breakable section 206.

[0138] Fig. 9b shows a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of the opening device 100 in a closed position and attached to a container outside surface 204. Note that the plunger section 114 is fastened to the breakable section 206 and that the plunger section 114 displays at least a slightly smaller cross-sectional area than the breakable section 206. This allows the plunger section 114 to fully enter through the breakable section 206 such that it is broken and the content of the container 200 may be accessed by a consumer. It is noted that the lid 110 should be brought to at least a partly open position for the contents of the container 200 to be freely accessible. Note that it is also possible for a consumer to partially break the breakable section 206 by partially pressing the plunger section 114 through the plane P when the opening device is attached at the breakable section of a container 200. In some examples, it may be said that it is also possible for a consumer to partially break the breakable section 206 by partially pressing the plunger 114 through the through-hole 143. When the consumer brings the lid 110 towards the open position, the breakable section 206 may fully break, since it is fastened to the plunger section 114.

[0139] Also shown in Fig. 9b is the axially expandable plug portion 117 and the curved, waved or arced shape which allows for axial expansion of the plunger section 114 into the through-hole 143, and through plane P, when a force is applied to the plunger section 114.

[0140] Fig. 10a shows an embodiment of the opening device 100 comprising a pour spout 146. The pout spout 146 comprises a pour spout outer wall 152, that extends from the flange upper surface 144 to a pour spout upper surface 154, and a pour spout inner wall 151 that extends from the pour spout upper surface 154 towards the through-hole 143. The pour spout upper surface 154 connects the pour spout inner wall 151 to the pour spout outer wall 152.

[0141] The inner wall 151 may be arranged such that it defines the through-hole 143. This arrangement may allow for minimizing any residual liquid after a consumer has poured from the container 200. The outer wall 152 may be arranged and adapted for interaction with the lid 110 for keeping the lid 110 in a closed position. In one example the pour spout outer wall 152 may comprise a securing notch 147 adapted for interaction with a lid outer edge 121 for keeping the lid 110 secured in a closed position.

[0142] Fig. 10b shows a perspective view of the opening device 100. The pour spout inner wall 151 defines the through-hole 143. The flange 141 extends radially from the pour spout outer wall 152 away from the through-hole 143 for facilitating molding of this embodiment of the opening device 100 in one piece.

[0143] Fig. 11 shows an embodiment of the opening device 100 wherein the hinge 130 comprises hinge alternating cuts 136 for adapting the resistance of the hinge 130 to allow the lid 110 to pivot about the pivot axis of the hinge 130. If more material is cut from the hinge 130 the resistance for the lid 110 to pivot is less. Also if more material is cut from the hinge 130 the lid 110 is less biased towards the open position. The cuts 136 may also allow the hinge 130 to enter a flat state where the hinge lower portion 131 and the hinge upper portion 132 is folded over each other and are substantially parallel. This configuration may be referred to as a flat state.

[0144] The plunger section 114 and or the axially expandable plug portion 117 may be manufactured of a resilient material such that after pressure has been applied to it for the first time it will remain in a collapsed position and thereby act as tamperevidence by alerting a consumer that the container 200 has been opened for a first time. This configuration may apply to all embodiments described herein.

[0145] Fig. 12a shows an embodiment of a opening device 100 attached to an outside surface 204 of a container 200. The opening device 100 is shown in a closed position.

[0146] Fig. 12b shows an embodiment of a opening device 100 attached to an outside surface 204 of a container 200. The opening device 100 is shown in an open position giving a consumer access to the contents of the container 200 through a breakable section 206 after said breakable section 206 has been broken.

[0147] Fig. 13a-13d show an embodiment of the opening device 100 of Figure 12a-b comprising a base 140 connected to a lid 110 via a hinge 130. The hinge 130 comprises a hinge lower portion 131 connected to the base 140, and a hinge upper portion 132 connected to the lid 110. The hinge upper portion 132 comprises a hinge tab 134 configured for being brought from a first position when the lid 110 is in the closed position in which the hinge tab 134 does not abut against the hinge lower portion 131, and a second position where lid 110 is in the open position and the hinge tab 134 has been brought through a cut or through-hole 135 in the hinge upper portion (133) for resting upon the hinge lower portion 131, thereby supporting the lid 110 in the open position.

[0148] The lid 110 comprises at least one lid protrusion 119 located internally in the lid and adapted for interaction with a pour spout lip 145 arranged at an end of the pour spout 146 distal from the through-hole 143. The lid may comprise a plurality of lid protrusions 119, for example 1, 2, 3, 4 or more. Interaction between the lid protrusion 119 and the pour spout lip 145 secures the lid 110 in the closed position.

[0149] Referring to Figs. 13a-13d it can be seen that the plunger 114 have an elongated shape. The plunger 114 may be attached to the lid 110 after molding, for example by gluing the plunger 114 to the lid 110. The flange 141 extends from the pour spout 146 towards and defines the perimeter of the through-hole 143.

[0150] Figs. 14a-14c show an embodiment of the opening device 100 comprising a base 140 connected to a lid 110 via a hinge 130. The base comprises the pour spout 146 and the flange 141 extends radially from the pour spout 146 and away from the through-hole 143. The cross-sectional area of the lid 110 may be adapted to make a tight fit around the pour spout 146 for securing the opening device in the closed position.

[0151] Fig. 15a and 15b shows an embodiment of the opening device 100 where the lid 110 comprises a second axially expandable lid portion 117b that is arranged within the axially expandable portion 117. The second axially expandable portion 117b displays a second pressing area 116b on the outside of lid 110 and a second plunger 114b on the inside of the lid 110, which substantially coincides with the pressing area 116b. The second plunger 114b is preferably not fastened to the breakable section 206, although it may be fastened. The area of the plunger 114 is preferably fastened to the breakable section 206. When the second pressing area 116b is subjected to applied pressure for the first time, the second plunger 114b axially moves towards the through hole 143 and breaks at least a part of the breakable section 206. When the lid 110 is brought to the open position the breakable section 206 will at least partially tear from the container 200 and remain attached to at least a part of the plunger 114 and thereby the breakable section will be brought away from the container 200 to allow access to the contents therein. In one configuration the breakable section 206 fully tears from the container 200 such that it may follow the lid 110 and be brought fully through the through-hole 143.

[0152] The second axially expandable section 117b may be manufactured of a resilient material such that after pressure has been applied to it for the first time it will remain in a collapsed position and thereby act as tamper-evidence by alerting a consumer that the container 200 has been opened for a first time.

[0153] The axially expandable section 117 may be manufactured of a resilient material such that after pressure has been applied to it for the first time it will remain in a collapsed position and thereby act as tamper-evidence by alerting a consumer that the container 200 has been opened for a first time.

[0154] Also shown in fig. 15a is a lid recess 122 arranged annularly around the axially expandable area 117. The lid recess 122 is configured for interacting with a base protrusion 155 that is arranged annularly around the pour spout 146.

[0155] Figs. 16a and 16b shows an embodiment of the opening device 100 where the breakable section 206 has been torn of the container and is fastened to at least a part of the plunger 114. The through-hole 143, the pour spout 146 and the size of the breakable section 206 is configured such that the breakable section 206 may interact with the pour spout lip 145 when the lid 110 is in the open position such that the lid 110 is kept in an open position for easy access to the contents of the container 200 and keeping the lid 200 out of the way when pouring contents from the container 200. It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which, for clarity, have been described above in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which, for brevity, have been described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

[0156] In the preceding description, various aspects of the opening device according to the invention have been described with reference to the illustrative embodiment. For purposes of explanation, specific numbers, systems and configurations were set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the apparatus and its workings. However, this description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications and variations of the illustrative embodiment, as well as other embodiments of the apparatus, which are apparent to person skilled in the art to which the disclosed subject-matter pertains, may lie within the scope of the present invention as defined by the following claims.

[0157] Numbered Clauses:

[0158] The following numbered clauses are also provided:

[0159] Clause 1. An opening device made from cellulose-based fiber material for a container, wherein the opening device comprises a base comprising a flange a flange lower surface for attachment to an outside surface and for surrounding a breakable section of the container, a through-hole defined by an inner perimeter of the flange, a flange upper surface opposing the flange lower surface, a pour spout extending from the flange upper surface and surrounding the through-hole, and a lid comprising a pressing area configured for axial movement located on the outside surface of the lid and within the axially expandable lid portion, a plunger configured for axial movement located on the inside surface of the lid and substantially coinciding with the pressing area, wherein the lid is configured for being brought from a closed position where the lid covers the spout and the plunger at least partially covers the through-hole to an open position where the lid is removed from the spout and the plunger is removed from the through-hole, wherein the pressing area is connected to the lid via an expandable lid portion which allows for axial expansion of the lid when a force is applied to the pressing area allowing the plunger to be brought from a first position where the plunger is disposed within the opening device, and a second position where the plunger protrudes at least partly through the through-hole.

[0160] Clause 2. The opening device as described in clause 1, wherein the lid is attached to the base via a hinge.

[0161] Clause 3. The opening device as described in clause 1 or 2, wherein the material of the expandable lid-portion displays a substantially uniform cross-sectional thickness.

[0162] Clause 4. The opening device as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein at least a portion of the plunger is fastened to at least a portion of the breakable section.

[0163] Clause 5. The opening device as described in clause 4, wherein the opening device is configured such that the breakable section may interact with a pour spout lip for keeping the lid in an open position after the breakable section has been broken for the first time.

[0164] Clause 6. The opening device as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the lid comprises a second axially expandable lid portion arranged within the axially expandable lid portion, wherein the second axially expandable lid portion comprises a second pressing area located on the lid outside surface, and a second plunger substantially coinciding with the second pressing area, wherein the second axial expandable lid portion is configured for axial expansion when a force is applied to the second pressing area and thereby allowing the second plunger to be brought from a first position where the second plunger is disposed within the opening device, and a second position where the second plunger protrudes at least partly through the through-hole.

[0165] Clause 7. The opening device as described in clause 6, wherein the second expandable lid portion is offset towards a side of the expandable lid portion. Clause 8. The opening device as described in clause 6 or 7, wherein the second plunger is not fastened to the breakable section.

[0166] Clause 9. The opening device as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the through-hole defines a plane P, and wherein the pour spout extends at an angle of about 15°-90°, 20°-85°, 25°-80°, 30°-75° or 35°-75° outwards from the through-hole when measured from the plane P.

[0167] Clause 10. The opening device as described in any one of the preceding claues, wherein the plunger is fastened to the lid.

[0168] Clause 11. The opening device as described in in any of clauses 1 to 8, wherein the opening device is molded in one piece and the plunger is an integral part of the lid.

[0169] Clause 12. The opening device as described in any of clauses 2 to 11, wherein the hinge comprises a hinge lower portion connected to the base, and a hinge upper portion connected to the lid, wherein the hinge upper portion comprises hinge upper portion edges configured to rest upon the hinge lower portion when the lid is in the open position, for securing the lid in the open position.

[0170] Clause 13. The opening device as described in any of clauses 2 to 12, wherein the hinge comprises a hinge lower portion connected to the base, and a hinge upper portion connected to the lid, wherein the hinge upper portion comprises a hinge tab configured for being brought from a first position when the lid is in the closed position in which the hinge tab does not abut against the hinge lower portion, and a second position where lid is in the open position and the hinge tab has been brought through a cut or through-hole in the hinge upper portion for resting upon the hinge lower portion, thereby supporting the lid in the open position.

[0171] Clause 14. The opening device as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the lid comprises at least one lid protrusion internally in the lid configured for interaction with the pour spout lip for securing the lid in the closed position.

[0172] Clause 15. The opening device as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the pour spout comprises a securing notch located externally on the pour spout configured for interaction with the lid outer edge for securing the lid in the closed position. Clause 16. The opening device as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the pour spout comprises an inner wall, and an outer wall, wherein the perimeter of the inner wall defines the through-hole and the outer wall is arranged concentrically outside the inner wall.

[0173] Clause 17. The opening device as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the flange lower surface comprises a base recess for accommodating fastening to the container.

[0174] Clause 18. The opening device as described in clause 17, wherein the base recess comprises at least one base recess channel.

[0175] Clause 19. The opening device as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the plunger comprises a plunger recess for accommodating fastening to the breakable section of the container.

[0176] Clause 20. The opening device as described in clause 19, wherein the plunger recess comprises at least one plunger recess channel.

[0177] Clause 21. The opening device as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the pour spout comprises a pour spout recess on the pour spout internal side for interacting with a structure on the lid for keeping the opening device in a closed position.

[0178] Clause 22. The opening device as described in any one of clauses 2 to 21, wherein the hinge comprises at least one hinge cut.

[0179] Clause 23. The opening device as described in any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the pressing area is resilient and configured to remain in a collapsed state after opening of the container for the first time.

[0180] Clause 24. The opening device as described in any one of clauses 2 to 23, comprising a lid recess at least partially surrounding the axially expandable portion configured for interaction with a base protrusion, wherein the base protrusion at least partially surrounding the pour spout and at least partially coinciding with the lid recess for keeping the opening device in a closed position.

[0181] List of references:

Claims

CLAIMS1.An opening device (100) made from cellulose-based fiber material for a container (200), wherein the opening device (100) comprises a base (140) comprising a flange (141) a flange lower surface (142) for attachment to an outside surface (204) of the container (200) and for surrounding a breakable section (206) of the container (200), a pour spout (146) defining a through-hole (143) through the base (140), and a lid (110) configured for being brought from a closed position where the lid (110) covers the through-hole (143), and an open position where the lid (110) is removed from the through-hole (143),- the lid (110) comprising a plug (111) configured to sealingly engage with the pour spout (146) when the opening device (100) is in the closed position, wherein the plug (111) comprises a plunger section (114), a curved or arced axially expandable plug portion (117) configured for axial movement allowing the plunger section (114), when the opening device (110) is in the closed position, to be brought from a retracted configuration where the plunger section (114) is confined within the pour spout (146) to an expanded position where the plunger section (114) protrudes through the through-hole (143).2.The opening device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the lid (110) is attached to the base (140) via a hinge (130).3.The opening device (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the material of the expandable plug portion (117) displays a substantially uniform cross- sectional thickness.4.The opening device (100) according to claim any of the preceding claims, wherein the plunger section (114) is offset towards a side of the plug (111) for focusing an applied force to the plunger section at a side of the breakable section (206).5The opening device (100) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the plunger section (114) is offset towards a side of the plug (111) that is substantially opposite of the side where the hinge (130) attaches the lid (110) to the base (140)6.The opening device (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the plug (111) comprises a fastening area (115) which is permanently fastened to at least a portion of the breakable section (206).7.The opening device (100) according to claim 6, wherein the plunger section (114) is not fastened to the breakable section (206).8.The opening device (100) according to claim 2 and 6 or 7, wherein the breakable section (206) is configured to tear completely from the container (200) when the lid is brought to the open position for the first time, and wherein the pour spout (146) comprises a pour spout lip (145) which is configured to interact with the breakable section (206) for keeping the lid (110) in the open position.9.The opening device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the through- hole (143) defines a plane P that is substantially level with and parallel with the flange, and wherein the pour spout (146) extends at an angle of about 15°-90°, 20°- 85°, 25°-80°, 30°-75° or 35°-75° outwards from the through-hole (143) when measured from the plane P.10.The opening device (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the opening device (100) is molded in one piece and the plunger section (114) is an integral part of the lid (100).11.The opening device (100) according to any of the preceding claims 2-10, wherein the hinge (130) comprises a hinge lower portion (131) connected to the base (140), and a hinge upper portion (132) connected to the lid (110),wherein the hinge upper portion (132) comprises hinge upper portion edges (133) configured to rest upon the hinge lower portion (131) when the lid (110) is in the open position, for securing the lid (110) in the open position.12.The opening device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lid (110) comprises at least one internal lid protrusion (119) configured for interaction with the pour spout lip (145) for securing the lid (110) in the closed position.15.The opening device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pour spout (146) comprises a securing notch (147) located externally on the pour spout (146) configured for interaction with the lid outer edge (121) for securing the lid (110) in the closed position.16.The opening device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein pour spout (146) comprises an inner wall (151), and an outer wall (152), wherein the perimeter of the inner wall (151) defines the through hole (143) and the outer wall (152) is arranged concentrically outside the inner wall (151).17.The opening device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flange lower surface (142) comprises a base recess (148) for accommodating fastening to the container (200).18.The opening device (100) according to claim 17, wherein the base recess (148) comprises at least one base recess channel (148b)19.The opening device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 6-18, wherein the fastening area (115) is recessed for accommodating fastening to the breakable section (206) of the container (200).20.The opening device (100) according to claim 19, wherein the fastening area (115) comprises at least one fastening area recess channel (115b).21.The opening device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pour spout (146) comprises an internal pour spout recess (153) for interacting with a structure on the lid (110) for keeping the opening device (100) in a closed position.22.The opening device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 2-21, wherein the hinge (130) comprises at least one hinge cut (136).23The opening device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a lid recess (122) at least partially surrounding the outer perimeter of the plug (111) configured for interaction with a base protrusion (155), wherein the base protrusion (155) at least partially surrounding the pour spout (146) and at least partially coinciding with the lid recess (122) for keeping the opening device (100) in a closed position.

24. The opening device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plunger section (114) is plastically deformable and configured to remain in a collapsed state after opening of the container (200) for the first time.

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