Chucks for protecting tamper-evidence band of closures

Abstract

Chucks for a closure for mounting onto a finish of a container are provided herein. Systems for mounting a closure onto a finish of a container are further provided. Methods of engaging a closure onto a finish of a container are further provided.

Description

Attomey Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTCHUCKS FOR PROTECTING TAMPER-EVIDENCE BAND OF CLOSURESCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.63 / 738,013, filed December 23, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 804,345, filed May 12, 2025, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to chucks, for example for mounting a closure onto a finish of a container.BACKGROUND

[0003] During capping of a closure onto a container, closure bridges are intended to remain untouched during the capping to provide evidence of tampering. Evidence of tampering can be visualized by a user when the closure bridges have been cracked while opening the cap. However, many bridges fail during capping which can apply high torque to the closure and the bridges, resulting in bridges designs that result in caps being hard to open or failing to break upon opening, preventing identifying of tamper-evidence. Further, chucks may be used to apply the closure to the container but fail to protect the bridges or tamper-evidence band of a closure during application. Therefore, there is a need in the art for means for providing stability to closure bridges while applying closures to containers.SUMMARY

[0004] In some embodiments, a chuck for a closure for mounting onto a finish of a container is disclosed. The chuck includes an upper wall configured to seat against one or more of a top surface of an annular wall of a closure or a top wall of the closure; and an outer wall extending downward from the upper wall, the outer wall having (a) a first portion adapted to engage an outer cylindrical wall of the closure, and (b) a second portion adapted to engage a tamper-evidence band of the closure; wherein the outer wall is configured to stabilize the tamper-evidence band while engaging the closure to a finish of a container.

[0005] In some embodiments, the first portion of the outer wall can be adapted to engage the outer cylindrical wall at a plurality of locations along a height of the outer cylindrical wall. The second portion of the outer wall can be adapted to engage the tamper-evidence band at a plurality of locations along a height of the tamper-evidence band. A diameter of the outer wall can vary along a height of the outer wall. The second portion can be configured to apply a torque to the tamper-Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTevidence band. A diameter of the second portion can be larger than an outer diameter of the tamper-evidence band.

[0006] In some embodiments, a system for mounting a closure onto a finish of a container is disclosed. The system includes a closure including at least one layer of thermoplastic material, the closure further including: (a) a top wall; (b) an annular wall surrounding the top wall and configured to seat against a top surface of a rim of the finish; (c) an outer cylindrical wall extending downward from the annular wall, the outer cylindrical wall spaced outwardly from an outer surface of the rim of the finish to provide a clearance between the closure and the outer surface of the rim of the finish; and (d) a tamper-evidence band connected to the outer cylindrical wall via a connection, the tamper-evidence band being configured to engage with a tamper-evidence ledge of the finish; a chuck including: an upper wall configured to seat against one or more of a top surface of an annular wall of a closure or the top wall of the closure; and an outer wall extending downward from the upper wall, the outer wall having (a) a first portion adapted to engage an outer cylindrical wall of the closure and (b) a second portion adapted to engage the tamper-evidence band of the closure; wherein the outer wall and the tamper-evidence band are configured to remain relatively fixed when the chuck is engaging the closure to the finish of the container; and a rotational module configured to engage the closure onto the finish of the container.

[0007] In some embodiments, the top wall can include a plug seal configured to seal against an inner surface of the finish. The top wall can be configured to sit against the top surface of the rim of the finish of the container. The connection can include a plurality of spaced-apart bridges between the tamper-evidence band and the outer cylindrical wall of the closure. The plurality of spaced-apart bridges can be configured to break when the closure is unthreaded from the finish of the container. The tamper-evidence band can be configured to be retained in position by a ledge of the finish when the closure is unthreaded from the finish. The tamper-evidence band can include a folded band. The closure can further include an inner cylindrical wall that extends downwardly from the annular wall, the inner cylindrical wall configured such that an outwardly facing surface of the inner cylindrical wall has an interference fit with an inwardly facing surface of the finish of the container for scaling against the inwardly facing surface of the finish. In some embodiments, the thermoplastic material can include polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene furandicarboxylate, or a copolymer of polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene furandi carb oxy late. In some embodiments, the closure can further include one or more paper layer. The finish can include one or more threads. The outer cylindrical wall can include external threads configured to engage with the finish. The outer cylindrical wall can include internal threads configured to engage with the finish.Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCT

[0008] In an embodiment, a method of engaging a closure onto a finish of a container is provided. The method including, the closure including: (a) a top wall; (b) an annular wall surrounding the top wall and configured to seat against a top surface of a rim of the finish; (c) an outer cylindrical wall extending downward from the annular wall, the outer cylindrical wall spaced outwardly from an outer surface of the rim of the finish to provide a clearance between the closure and the outer surface of the rim of the finish; and (d) a tamper-evidence band connected to the outer cylindrical wall, the tamper-evidence band being configured to engage with a tamper-evidence ledge of the finish; the method including: fitting a chuck onto the closure, the chuck including: an upper wall configured to seat against one or more of a top surface of an annular wall of a closure or the top wall of the closure; and an outer wall extending downward from the upper wall, the outer wall having (a) a first portion adapted to engage an outer cylindrical wall of the closure, and (b) a second portion adapted to engage a tamper-evidence band of the closure; and controllably engaging the closure onto the finish of the container; wherein a connection between the outer wall and the tamper-evidence band is configured to remain intact while engaging the closure to the finish of the container using the chuck.

[0009] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. It should be understood that the description and specific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.DRAWINGS

[0010] In order that the present disclosure may be well understood, there will now be described various forms thereof, given by way of example, reference being made to the accompanying drawings. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale. Moreover, in the figures, like-referenced numerals designate corresponding parts through the different views.

[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view with a partial diametrical cross-section of an example of a closure mounted to an example of a finish of a container;

[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates a diametrical cross-sectional view of another example of a closure including an external seal for sealing to another example of a finish of a container;

[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of yet another example of a closure;

[0014] FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of yet another example of a closure that is formed but not fully processed about a finish of a container; FIG. 4B illustrates a perspective view of the example of a closure of FIG. 4A that has been fully processed about a finish of a container;

[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates a diametrical cross-sectional view of yet another example of a closure including a plurality of internal knurls about a circumference of an inner surface of a tamper evidence feature;Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCT

[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates a partial diametrical cross-sectional view of the example of a closure of FIG. 5 processed on yet another example of a finish of a container;

[0017] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of yet another example of a closure including a tamper evidence feature including a folded band folded outward around an outer wall;

[0018] FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of yet another example of a closure including a plurality of threads;

[0019] FIG. 9A illustrates a side view of yet another example of a closure including one thread and a plurality of knurls distributed circumferentially;

[0020] FIG. 9B illustrates a side view of yet another example of a closure including three separate threads and a plurality of knurls distributed circumferentially;

[0021] FIG. 9C illustrates a perspective view of the closure illustrated in FIG. 9A;

[0022] FIG. 9D illustrates a perspective view of the closure illustrated in FIG. 9B;

[0023] FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of yet another example of a closure including a plurality of threads;

[0024] FIG. 11A illustrates a perspective view of yet another example of a closure including two separate thermoformed layers that are subsequently combined;

[0025] FIG. 11B illustrates a perspective diametrical cross-sectional view of the example of the closure illustrated in FIG. 11 A;

[0026] FIG. 11C illustrates a diametrical cross-sectional view of the example of the closure of FIGs. 11A and 11B;

[0027] FIG. 12A illustrates a perspective view of yet another example of a closure and an example of a seal;

[0028] FIG. 12B illustrates a perspective view of a closure-seal combination of the example of the closure and the example of the seal illustrated in FIG. 12A;

[0029] FIG. 12C illustrates a perspective view of an example of a closure-seal combination on yet another example of a finish;

[0030] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective diametrical cross-sectional view of yet another example of a closure on yet another example of a finish, a circumference of a top surface of the closure that is ultrasonically or thermally bonded to a top surface of the finish;

[0031] FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective of yet another example of a closure including a branding feature on a top surface;

[0032] FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate a partial perspective view of a chuck surrounding a closure and a close-up view of an engagement between a chuck and a tamper-evidence band of a closure, respectively, according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure;Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCT

[0033] FIGS. 16A-16B illustrate a flowchart diagram and partial side view, respectively, of a chuck including an insert for adjusting a plug seal of the closure, according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure.

[0034] The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses. It should be understood that throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts and features.

[0036] The present disclosure provides a chuck for a closure for mounting onto a finish of a container. In some embodiments, the chuck includes an upper wall configured to seat against one or more of a top surface, or top wall, of an annular wall of a closure or an upper wall of the closure; and an outer wall extending downward from the upper wall, the outer wall having (a) a first portion adapted to engage an outer cylindrical wall of the closure, and (b) a second portion adapted to engage a tamper-evidence band of the closure. In some embodiments, the outer wall is configured to stabilize the tamper-evidence band while engaging the closure to the finish of a container.

[0037] Typical capper chucks (“chucks”) on the market today only extend part way down the closure and do not provide any stability around the tamper-evidence band during application of the closure to a container, let alone interact with the tamper-evidence band at all. Bridges are often used to connect the tamper-evidence band to the rest of the closure and are intended to break during opening of the closure by the end consumer but must remain intact during application of the closure to the bottle after filling. The inventors have recognized and appreciated that chuck designs, for example those disclosed herein, which employ geometries that protect and stabilize tamperevidence bands during application can allow bridges (e.g., “weaker” bridges) to remain intact during a capping process. Such a chuck design can result in less waste during the capping process, thereby increasing yields and reducing costs.

[0038] In some embodiments, the chuck can be configured to contact the closure at one or more locations along the closure. In some embodiments, the chuck can be configured to contact knurls on an outer cylindrical wall of the closure. The knurls may include plurality of knurls distributed circumferentially about an outer surface of the outer layer of the outer cylindrical wall. In some embodiments, the plurality of knurls can be along an upper surface of the outer cylindrical wall or a lower surface of the outer cylindrical wall. In some embodiments, any surface of the outer cylindrical wall that does not include the knurls bay be flat and / or cylindrical. In someAttorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTembodiments, the chuck can include projections (e.g., fins, cams, knobs, hooks, extensions, ridges, ledges, or the like) that can engage the knurls in the closure so as to impart a tangential force, or torque, to rotate the closure without significantly increasing the friction between the closure and the finish. This can allow for requiring less than previously required for engaging the closure to the finish.

[0039] In some embodiments, the chuck is configured to contact the closure at a location of an outer cylindrical wall without knurls. In some embodiments, the closure can be forced onto the chuck by biting into the outer cylindrical wall with fins in the chuck that impart a tangential force, or torque. Such engagement may require some increase in normal force to bite into the closure enough to keep it from slipping. For example, a normal force can be perpendicular to the upper wall of the chuck. In some embodiments, a slipping force between the closure and the container should be greater than that required for a fully engaged torque on the closure, but it need not exceed a stripping torque for the closure.

[0040] In some embodiments, the chuck is configured to prevent expansion of a tamper evidence (TE) band during capping, i.e., engaging the closure onto the container. In some embodiments, such expansion prevention is performing using a flat or gentle cylinder at a predetermined diameter to keep the TE band from expanding. In some embodiments, the chuck can have an extended height. In some embodiments, the chuck can include projections that stop before the TE band. In some embodiments, a TE band can further include second projections (e.g., flaps, fins, or the like) that configured to flex and / or fold-in, allowing the TE band to snap over a TE bead on a finish of the container. This differs from closures that use TE bands that are configured to stretch in diameter to go over a TE bead on the finish. Other TE bands may further include cams instead of flaps that do not compress very well. As a result, such caps need the chuck to stop or not extend past a threaded-knurled portion of a skirt of the closure so that the TE band can expand. Contrarily, a chuck described herein may protect a TE band from expanding. This can work better for TE bands made of more brittle materials (e.g., PET, which is more brittle than HDPE), thereby preventing the more brittle material from breaking upon expansion in the chuck.

[0041] In some embodiments, the chuck can be configured to engage a closure using an interference fit. In some embodiments, a TE band can be held up during capping of the container.

[0042] In some embodiments, a finish of a container can be a portion of container adapted to receive a closure. A finish may be formed from a cylindrical wall of the container that defines an opening or an outlet therethrough, and is generally known for being above a neck of the container. In some embodiments, a finish of a container includes one or more threads for engaging with a closure. In some embodiments, a finish is integrated or of unitary construction with otherAttorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTcomponents (e.g., a lip, a neck, a body, or the like) of a container. In some embodiments, a finish comprises any portion of the container that is above an upper terminus of a neck of the container. In some embodiments, a finish of a container terminates at a rim of the container.

[0043] In some embodiments, a first portion of the outer wall is adapted to engage the outer cylindrical wall at a plurality of locations along a height of the outer cylindrical wall. In some embodiments, a second portion of the outer wall is adapted to engage the tamper-evidence band at a plurality of locations along a height of the tamper-evidence band.

[0044] In some embodiments, a diameter of the outer wall varies along a height of the outer wall. In some embodiments, a diameter of the first portion differs from a diameter of the second portion. In some embodiments, a diameter of each of a first portion or a second portion of an outer wall differs along a height of each of the first portion or the second portion, respectively. In some embodiments, a diameter of the outer wall is shaped to conform to an outer surface of an outer cylindrical wall or an outer surface of a tamper-evidence band of a closure.

[0045] In some embodiments, the upper wall of the chuck can include a cavity, for example to interface with a drive unit, not shown, that can provide torque and a normal force to the chuck. In some embodiments, the cavity can be shaped for any desired geometry, such as a square, triangular, trapezoidal, circular (via the use of an interference fit), or the like. In some embodiments, the cavity can penetrate through an entirety of a thickness of the upper wall. In some embodiments, the cavity may only penetrate through a portion of a thickness of the upper wall.

[0046] Further disclosed herein is a system for mounting a closure onto a finish of a container. In some embodiments, the system includes a closure including at least one layer of thermoplastic material. The closure further includes: a upper wall; an annular wall surrounding the top wall and configured to seat against a top surface of a rim of the finish; an outer cylindrical wall extending downward from the annular wall, the outer cylindrical wall spaced outwardly from an outer surface of the rim of the finish to provide a clearance between the closure and the outer surface of the rim of the finish; and a tamper-evidence band connected to the outer cylindrical wall, the tamperevidence band being configured to engage with a tamper-evidence ledge of the finish. In some embodiments, the system further includes a chuck including: an upper wall configured to seat against one or more of a top surface of an annular wall of a closure or the upper wall of the closure; and an outer wall extending downward from the upper wall, the outer wall having (a) a first portion adapted to engage an outer cylindrical wall of the closure and (b) a second portion adapted to engage the tamper-evidence band of the closure. In some embodiments, a connection between the outer wall and the tamper-evidence band is configured to remain intact while engaging the closureAttorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTto the finish of the container using the chuck. In some embodiments, the system further includes a rotational module configured to engage the closure onto the finish of the container.

[0047] In some embodiments, a chuck is fitted to a closure after forming of the closure. In some embodiments, a chuck is used for applying the cap or closure on a commercial filling line. In some embodiments, a chuck is fitted to a closure using a “pick-up plate”. In such an embodiment, the chuck is on a cam rail or even a servo drive attached to a wheel, whereby the chuck comes down approaching a closure that is sitting upright on a surface of a table or a pick-up plate as it rotates round a main capper wheel. The chuck may then settle down on the closure and then rise up on another cam or servo drive attached to the wheel to prepare to push down on a finish of a filled container. In some embodiments, this action happens in the “capper” that follows the “filler” in a beverage line. A small amount of interference between the chuck and the closure holds the closure in place. In some embodiments, such interference can be static or caused by a stretching component, such as by an O-ring, that is built into the chuck.

[0048] In some embodiments, a capping machine rotation motion includes picking up closures, then, optionally, pushing the closures down onto containers. In some embodiments, closures are pushed down while twisting. In some embodiments, a rail and / or a set of “neck knives” hold the container in place while the closure is twisted on. In some embodiments, such pushing and / or twisting is performed while the container is traveling around a capping machine.

[0049] In some embodiments, an upper wall of the closure includes a plug seal configured to seal against an inner surface of the finish. In some embodiments, an upper wall is configured to sit against the top wall of the rim of the finish of the container. In some embodiments, a plug seal includes an inner cylindrical wall that extends downwardly from the annular wall. In some embodiments, the inner cylindrical wall includes a radial surface that is dimensioned for an interference fit with a corresponding inwardly facing surface of the rim of finish for sealing. In some embodiments, the plug seal is configured to establish a sealing interface with the finish. In some embodiments, the lower wall is configured to increase pressure on a sealing interface between the plug seal and the finish.

[0050] In some embodiments, a connection between the outer wall and the tamper-evidence band includes a plurality of spaced-apart bridges between the tamper-evidence band and the outer cylindrical wall of the closure. In some embodiments, a plurality of spaced-apart bridges is configured to break when the closure is unthreaded from the finish of the container.

[0051] In some embodiments, at least one of the following is provided: the bridges have a wall thickness between an underside and an upper side which differs by at most 50% and in particular by at most 25% from a wall thickness of the side wall, and in particular the wall thickness of theAttorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTside wall corresponds to the wall thickness of a respective bridge; the wall thickness of the bridges is a maximum of 2 mm; the bridges are evenly spaced around the opening; or the bridges have the same size and shape.

[0052] In some embodiments, a tamper-evidence band is configured to be retained in position by a ledge of the finish when the closure is unthreaded from the finish. In some embodiments, a tamper-evidence band includes a folded band. In some embodiments, the folded band is configured to fold under the tamper evidence ledge of the finish, such that the plurality of bridges breaks when the closure is unthreaded from the finish while retaining the folded band in position.

[0053] In some embodiments, the outer cylindrical wall may include an outer layer folded band disposed radially outward along a bottom circumference of the outer layer of the outer cylindrical wall. In some embodiments, the outer cylindrical wall may include plurality of knurls distributed circumferentially about an outer surface of the outer layer of the outer cylindrical wall. In some embodiments, an inner surface of the outer cylindrical wall may include a thread for engaging a thread of a finish of the container. In some embodiments, the folded band may be configured to lightly fit within a groove between an outer surface of the outer cylindrical wall and the folded band. The folded band is discussed in more detail below.

[0054] In some embodiments, a closure further includes an inner cylindrical wall that extends downwardly from the annular wall, the inner cylindrical wall configured such that an outwardly facing surface of the inner cylindrical wall has an interference fit with an inwardly facing surface of the finish of the container for scaling against the inwardly facing surface of the finish.

[0055] In some embodiments, a thermoplastic material comprises polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene furandi carb oxy late, or a copolymer of polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene furandi carb oxy 1 ate .

[0056] In some embodiments, a closure includes a multilayer closure. In some embodiments, a closure further includes one or more paper layer. In some embodiments, a multilayered closure includes at least one paper layer and at least one thermoplastic layer. In some embodiments, a multilayer closure comprises at least one paper layer positioned between at least two thermoplastic layers. In some embodiments, each of the at least two thermoplastic layers includes a polymer sheet of thermoplastic material. In some embodiments, the polymer sheet includes a very thin layer or recyclable polymer sheet. Such a polymer sheet may be used as the base material for caps and closures described herein. This polymer sheet provides the necessary strength and flexibility required for caps and closures. In some embodiments, the polymer sheet comprises a thickness of less than 5 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.9 mm, less than 0.8 mm, less than 0.7 mm, less than 0.6 mm, less than 0.5 mm., less than 0.4 mm, lessAttorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTthan 0.3 mm, less than 0.2 mm, or less than 0.1 mm. In some embodiments, the thermoplastic material may comprise a polystyrene such as SAN or ABS, or a polyolefin such as PP or PE, or a polycarbonate or, in particular, a polyester such as PET, PBT or PEF. Further, in some embodiments, the polymer sheet can be made from a single thermoplastic material or can be made from a plurality of thermoplastic materials. In one embodiment, the thermoplastic material comprises PET, and the container, which is to be closed with the closure, is also made of PET. The use of PET allows for making mono-material recyclable containers. However, PHA or PLA are also practical options to allow for the manufacture of bio-degradable closures. Further, HDPE or PP can be adapted to the process and allow the use of a wider spectrum of melt flow indices, which would be important for the use of recycled resins.

[0057] In some embodiments, a finish includes one or more threads. In some embodiments, an outer cylindrical wall includes external threads configured to engage with the finish. In some embodiments, an outer cylindrical wall includes internal threads configured to engage with the finish. In some embodiments, the one or more threads are configured for a snap-on engagement with the finish.

[0058] In some embodiments, a closure further includes a plurality of external knurls distributed around a circumference of the outer cylindrical wall. In some embodiments, a closure further includes a plurality of internal knurls distributed around a circumference of the outer cylindrical wall.

[0059] Further disclosed herein is a method of engaging a closure of the present disclosure onto a finish of a container. In some embodiments, the method includes fitting a chuck of the present disclosure onto the closure; and controllably engaging the closure onto the finish of the container. In some embodiments, a connection between an outer wall and a tamper-evidence band is configured to remain intact while engaging the closure to the finish of the container using the chuck.

[0060] In an example, the present disclosure provides closures formed from a polymer that may be recycled in the same recycling stream as the containers closed by the closures. Examples of suitable polymers from which the closures described herein may be formed may include polyester resins, including bio-modified polyesters, such as co-polymers of PET and polyethylene furandi carb oxy late (“PEF”), which may include from 0 to 100 mole percent of each of PET and PET (for example, 100 mole percent or less of PET, with the remainder, if any, being PEF), and co-polymers modified by isophthalic acid (“IP A”) or other additives or co-monomers. In certain examples, closures may be made of a polyester resin that includes PEF of up to 90 mole percent (0.90 mole fraction) of the polyester resin. In other examples, the PEF may be derived from aAttorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTreaction of furandi carb oxy late (“FDCA”) with ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol (“PEG”) and / or diethylene glycol (“DEG”). In still other examples, closures may be made from a polyester resin having a total comonomer content of the reaction product of FDCA with ethylene glycol, PEG, and / or DEG of up to 50 mole percent (0.5 mole fraction) of the polyester resin. The polyester resin may be prepared by a process including melt blending PEF with PET, or by a process that includes reacting ethylene glycol with FDCA. In still other examples, closures may be made by injection molding or compression molding a polyester resin including a total comonomer content of the reaction product of FDCA with ethylene glycol, PEG, and / or DEG of up to 90 mole percent (0.90 mole fraction) of the polyester resin), or up to 50 mole percent (0.50 mole fraction) of the polyester resin, or from 5 to 25 mole percent (from 0.05 to 0.25 mole fraction) of the polyester resin, or from 12 to 15 mole percent (0.12 to 0.15 mole fraction) of the polyester resin. In still other examples, closures may be made by thermoforming a polyester resin having a total comonomer content of the reaction product of FDCA with ethylene glycol, PEG, and / or DEG of up to 50 mole percent (0.50 mole percent) of the polyester resin, or from 0.5 to 20 mole percent (from 0.05 to 0.20 mole fraction) of the polyester resin, or from 1 to 8 mole percent (from 0.01 to 0.08 mole fraction) of the polyester resin. In still other examples, a container may be made of a polyester or polyester resin described herein. A closure comprising a polyester or polyester resin described herein may be heat shrunk to a finish or thermally or ultrasonically bonded to a finish of a container comprising a polyester or polyester resin described herein.

[0061] In another example, a closure may include a plurality of layers of polyester resins. In certain examples, an inner layer of a plurality of layers may be more compliant than an outer layer of the plurality of layers to more readily deform to the finish, and provide a better seal. Additionally, or alternatively, an outer layer may provide more aesthetic appeal than an inner layer, which may be more functional than an outer layer. Examples of techniques for preparing a closure including a plurality of layers of polyester resins may include thermoforming, compression molding, and injection molding.

[0062] As described herein, examples of closures made from polyester resin, such as PET and / or PEF, may have a number of advantages over closures made from conventional materials, such as HDPE and / or PP. For example, the polyester resin closures described herein may help to avoid contaminating a recycle stream and may be made from a high fraction of recycled polyester resin, such as recycled PET (“rPET”). The rPET supply may be cleaner and more readily accessible than HDPE supplies. In certain examples, the polyester resins may be supplemented with biobased PET (“bio-PET”) or virgin-PET. Additionally, or alternatively, another advantage of the polyester resin closures described herein may be that the polyester resin closures may increase theAttorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCToxygen and carbon dioxide barrier compared to HDPE and PP, thereby increasing the resulting shelf-life of beverages due to the improvement in barrier. In certain examples, an oxygen barrier of closures including PET may be at least 10 times greater than an oxygen barrier of closures made from HDPE. In other examples, the oxygen barrier of closures may even further increase if the closures also include FDCA. Additionally, or alternatively, another advantage of the polyester resin closures described herein may be that the polyester resin closures will not float, and may reduce the tendency of closures to contaminate the environment.

[0063] Additionally, or alternatively, another advantage of the polyester resin closures described herein may be that the polyester resin closures may provide for lighter container finishes, which may reduce the cost of materials and the amount of material wasted. Additionally, or alternatively, another advantage of the polyester resin closures described herein may be that because the coefficient of thermal expansion of a polyester resin closure described may closely match the coefficient of thermal expansion of a PET finish of a container, the ability to successfully seal a lighter finish may improve. Additionally, or alternatively, another advantage of the polyester resin closures described herein may be that during a deformation caused by an external force, such as during storage or transportation, a closure and a finish may deform similarly due to the material of the closure and the finish being similar, resulting in the sealing between the closure and finish remaining intact.

[0064] Additionally, or alternatively, another advantage of the polyester resin closures described herein may be that because the polyester resin closures are made from a material similar to, or the same as, the container, such as, for example, PET, the closures may be thermally or ultrasonically welded to the finish of the container. In some examples, a polyester resin closure described herein may be welded to a PET finish at one or more locations. In certain examples, a closure may be welded to a top rim of a finish to provide an additional seal between the closure and the finish. In other examples, one or more spot welds may be included so as to provide evidence of lack of tampering. The ability to weld a closure to a PET container may also offer a unique way to meet the tethering requirements of the European Union and considered for the United States. In still other examples, a polyester resin closure described herein may include a tamper-evident (“TE”) band, a spiral tether, or another feature such as a hinge that is spot welded at one or more terminal points to the container, providing a tether with controlled strength.

[0065] In an example, the closures described herein may require from 10 N to 20 N of force for removal.

[0066] In an example, polyester resin closures described herein may be made via a thermoforming process. Thermoformed closures may be designed to balance wall thickness and tuning for anAttorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTinterference fit with container finishes within the elastic limit of PET or any of the other polymers described herein, such as by, for example, including a plug seal or an external seal. Because of the relatively higher stiffness of polyester resins, such as PET, compared to HDPE and PP (for example, on the order of two times higher), the seal designs for conventional HDPE and PP closures may be ineffective for thermoformed polyester resin disclosures described herein, because the seal designs for conventional HDPE and PP closures rely upon a relatively high level of elastic deformation that is generally not achievable with thermoformed polyester resin closures described herein. Accordingly, in certain examples, the seal configurations of thermoformed polyester resin closures may be tailored to provide sufficient sealing with less material strain.

[0067] In an example, closures described herein may be made by vacuum forming. In certain examples, closures described herein may be made via pressure-assisted vacuum forming at pressures up to 4 bar, preferably up to 24 bar, and more preferably up to 40 bar. In other examples, a thermoformed polyester resin closure with a plug seal may include a relatively wide sealing surface that may be designed to bridge defects (for example, scratches) that may be present in the finish of a container. By contrast, plug seals of conventional HDPE and PP closures take advantage of the relative softness of the HDPE and PP material and are designed with relatively high levels of elastic deformation that result in relatively smaller areas of sealing contact with the finish. In still other examples, a polyester resin closure described herein, such as a thermoformed polyester resin disclosure, may include a sealing surface of a plug seal with a width of 0.7 millimeters that may be configured for a finish with an inner diameter of 26 millimeters, and a width of 1.5 millimeters that may be configured for a finish with an inner diameter of 48 millimeters.

[0068] In an example, a plug seal of a closure described herein may be configured for providing an interference fit with a finish, such that a sealing surface of the closure may provide sufficient pressure against a mating surface of the finish and provide sufficient sealing, including for containing pressurized contents, such as carbonated liquids. An amount of interference may refer to a difference between a radius of a sealing surface of a closure and a corresponding sealing surface of a finish. The amount of interference may vary depending on a diameter of a finish and a wall thickness of a closure. In certain examples, an amount of interference may range from 0.02 millimeters to 0.2 millimeters for material thicknesses in a range of from 0.2 millimeters to 0.5 millimeters. In other examples, an amount of interference for a closure thermoformed from a sheet of PET having a thickness of 0.5 millimeters may be 0.05 millimeters. An amount of interference may be adjusted, for example by changing a behavior of the polyester resin such as by including FDCA and / or DEG, such that a softer polymer may result in a larger interference fit and / or a largerAttorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTthickness. The values for interference disclosed herein are nominal interference values provided as examples, and variations from the disclosed values may occur due to manufacturing variability.

[0069] In an example, a polyester resin closure described herein may be thermoformed from a sheet of polyester resin described herein having a thickness of from 0.20 millimeters to 2.00 millimeters. In certain examples, a sheet of polyester resin may have a thickness of from 0.20 millimeters to 1.95 millimeters, or to 1.90 millimeters, or to 1.85 millimeters, or to 1.80 millimeters, or to 1.75 millimeters, or to 1.70 millimeters, or to 1.65 millimeters, or to 1.60 millimeters, or to 1.55 millimeters, or to 1.50 millimeters, or to 1.45 millimeters, or to 1.40 millimeters, or to 1.35 millimeters, or to 1.30 millimeters, or to 1.25 millimeters, or to 1.20 millimeters, or to 1.15 millimeters, or to 1.10 millimeters, or to 1.05 millimeters, or to 1.00 millimeters, or to 0.95 millimeters, or to 0.90 millimeters, or to 0.85 millimeters, or to 0.80 millimeters, or to 0.75 millimeters, or to 0.70 millimeters, or to 0.65 millimeters, or to 0.60 millimeters, or to 0.55 millimeters, or to 0.50 millimeters, or to 0.45 millimeters, or to 0.40 millimeters, or to 0.35 millimeters, or to 0.30 millimeters, or 0.25 millimeters; or from 0.25 millimeters, or from 0.30 millimeters, or from 0.35 millimeters, or from 0.40 millimeters, or from 0.45 millimeters, or from 0.50 millimeters, or from 0.55 millimeters, or from 0.60 millimeters, or from 0.65 millimeters, or from 0.70 millimeters, or from 0.75 millimeters, or from 0.80 millimeters, or from 0.85 millimeters, or from 0.90 millimeters, or from 0.95 millimeters, or from 1.00 millimeters, or from 1.05 millimeters, or from 1.10 millimeters, or from 1.15 millimeters, or from 1.20 millimeters, or from 1.25 millimeters, or from 1.30 millimeters, or from 1.35 millimeters, or from 1.40 millimeters, or from 1.45 millimeters, or from 1.50 millimeters, or from 1.55 millimeters, or from 1.60 millimeters, or from 1.65 millimeters, or from 1.70 millimeters, or from 1.75 millimeters, or from 1.80 millimeters, or from 1.85 millimeters, or from 1.90 millimeters, or from 1.95 millimeters to 2.00 millimeters; or any range that may be formed from any two of the foregoing numbers, including any subranges therebetween. Preferably, a sheet of polyester resin may have a thickness of from 0.50 millimeters to 0.90 millimeters, including any of 0.50 millimeters, 0.55 millimeters, 0.60 millimeters, 0.65 millimeters, 0.70 millimeters, 0.75 millimeters, 0.80 millimeters, 0.85 millimeters, or 0.90 millimeters, including any ranges or subranges therebetween. In other examples, a desirable or preferable thickness of a sheet of a polyester resin described herein used to prepare a polyester resin closure described herein may be a determinable function of a diameter of a polyester resin closure.

[0070] In an example, so as to enable a plug seal of a closure described herein to deform when engaging a finish, a thermoformed polyester resin closure may be configured with sufficient radial clearance between an outer surface of the finish and an outer wall of the closure, which enclosesAttorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTthe outer surface of the finish. Without a radial clearance, a plug seal of a closure may not be able to fully insert within a finish, or stress on a closure may be high enough to cause failure.

[0071] In an example, a thermoformed polyester resin closure described herein may be configured with an external seal that seals with an outer surface of a mouth of a finish. The external seal may be achieved with an interference fit with the finish. An amount of interference may depend on the application. Examples of interferences and wall thicknesses disclosed above for the plug seal may be used for the external seal. In certain examples, a sealing of the external seal may be enhanced by taking advantage of an ability of a polyester resin to heat shrink by heat shrinking a closure after capping.

[0072] To achieve a suitable interference of a seal, such as a plug seal and / or an external seal, with the finish, and in certain examples, a suitable clearance between an outer wall of a closure and a finish, the dimensions of the interference and the clearance may be well controlled during manufacture by thermoforming a closure using a male mold that matches a shape of a desired interference with the finish while accounting for shrinkage. The features of the closure that may provide the interference and clearance with the finish may be in contact with the mold.

[0073] Because thermoformed polyester resins are relatively stiff, a sealing surface of a polyester resin closure may have a relatively low surface roughness. In certain examples, a low surface roughness may be achieved by polishing regions of a thermoforming mold that form the sealing surfaces. In other examples, portions of a thermoforming mold that do not form the sealing surfaces of the closure are not polished, or are not polished to the same degree as portions that do form the sealing surface so as to avoid a closure sticking to the mold and being difficult to release. Examples of a roughness of sealing surface(s) of a closure may include about 0.2 microns (an Ra value of 0.2 or an N4 finish).

[0074] In various examples, a seal, a thread-engagement, and / or a TE band of a polyester resin disclosure described herein may be configured to provide an opening torque in a range of from 0.45 N-m to 1.24 N-m, and preferably 1.02 N-m. In various examples, a closure may be configured to provide a pressure retention of less than or equal to 2 bar, and preferably less than or equal to 10 bar.

[0075] In an example, a polyester resin used in thermoformed closures described herein may include some amount of FDCA and / or DEG, which may provide numerous advantages. For example, FDCA and DEG may interfere with crystal formation, so resulting material may have a longer processing window in which to form features on the closure. Additionally, including FDCA and / or DEG may make material of a closure sufficiently different from material of a finish such that the closure does not fuse to the container during storage. Additionally, including FDCA and / orAttorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTDEG may lower a modulus of material of a closure, which may allow for higher material strains, and higher material strains may be useful for increasing a seal between a closure and a finish.

[0076] In an example, a closure may be made by injection molding or compression molding a polymer resin. In certain examples, the polyester resin may include some amount of FDCA and / or DEG. The FDCA and / or DEG content may sufficiently reduce the modulus of the material such that a closure may easily eject from various cavities of a mold. For example, a modulus of the amorphous phase of the material may be in the range of 1 to 3 GPa. An increased FDCA content may increase the processing window such that ejection of a closure is easier, because the polyester resin may remain soft for a longer period of time. The amount of FDCA and / or DEG in a polyester resin that is submitted to injection molding or compression molding may be relatively higher than an amount of FDCA and / or DEG in a thermoformed closure because of a need for greater compliance in injection molding or compression molding. In certain examples, an ability of a material to flow during injection molding or compression molding may be increased by limiting an intrinsic viscosity of the material. Examples of methods of limiting an intrinsic viscosity of the material may include limiting the duration of solid-state polymerization of the polyester resin after synthesizing the polyester resin. In certain examples, an intrinsic viscosity may be in a range of from 0.4 dL / g to 0.7 dL / g. Similar to thermoformed closures, by including FDCA and / or DEG in a polyester resin closure described herein, the closure material may be made sufficiently different from a finish material such that the closure may not fuse to the container during storage. Further, by including FDCA and / or DEG in a polyester resin closure described herein, the modulus of the closure material may be lowered, which may allow for higher material strains, and which may increase the seal between the closure and the finish.

[0077] In an example, a movable core component may be used in injection molding or compression molding in order to reduce the need of warm threads so as to strip stiff PET, which is conventionally performed with injection molded HDPE. In certain examples, an FDCA-, PEG-, and / or DEG-modified polyester resin may be used in combination with a movable core.

[0078] In certain examples, closures may be colored using dye or dyeing processes that are compatible with recycling. For example, a dye used to color a closure may be compatible with recycling. In other examples, a dye or an ink may be removable via washing. In still other examples, a nanocoating may be deposited on a surface of a closure.

[0079] Closures may be configured to fit custom or industry standard finishes. Examples of industry standard thread finishes may include 26 / 22, 29 / 25, 29 / 21, 28PCO1881, 30 / 25, 38 / 33, and 48 mm.

[0080] Closures Made of Copolymers of PET and PEF (“PETF”)Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCT

[0081] In an example, a closure may be made of a PET -based copolymer that may be particularly suited for injection molding and / or thermoforming. The PET -based copolymer incorporates a comonomer to control crystallization and reduce melt processing temperatures. In certain examples, the present disclosure provides a copolymer of PET and PET (also referred to as a FDCA-modified PET copolymer, or “PETF”). In other examples, the FDCA may be incorporated at a range of amounts such as to enhance the polymer reaction rates during both melt and solid state polymerization, and such as to allow polymer performance that may match traditional PET controlled by adding an amount of IPA. In still other examples, FDCA may be substituted for or added to PET in addition to IPA so as to make PETF. In still other examples, FDCA may be added in a low fraction, and the PETF copolymer product may be made following the same process as to make PET.

[0082] Thermoformed PET Closure with Plug Seal

[0083] Referring to FIG. 1, a side view with partial diametrical cross section of an example of a thermoformed polyester resin closure 100 mounted to an example of a finish 200 of a container typically used for storing liquid contents, such as still or carbonated drinks, is illustrated. Closure 100 may be made of any of the polyester resins described herein. Closure 100 includes internal threads 102 formed into outer cylindrical wall 104 of closure 100 for engaging with external threads 206 of finish 200. The threads 206 may be continuous threads or may be interrupted threads. Other examples may be configured for snap-on engagement with finish 200. Outer cylindrical wall 104 extends downwardly from annular wall 112.

[0084] Closure 100 includes plug seal 108 for sealing against inner surface 204 of finish 200. Plug seal 108 includes cylindrical wall 110 that extends downwardly from annular wall 112 of closure 100. Annular wall 112 may be configured to seat against top surface 210 of rim 208 of finish 200.Outwardly facing radical surface 114 of inner cylindrical wall 110 of plug seal 108 may be dimensioned for an interference fit with the corresponding inwardly facing surface 204 of rim 208 of finish 200 for sealing. In certain examples, an interference fit may be 0.05 millimeters for a wall thickness of 0.5 millimeters. As closure 100 is threaded onto finish 200, plug seal 108 is forced into the mouth of finish 200 into a compressed state in which outwardly facing radial surface 114 of plug seal 108 pushes against inwardly facing surface 204 of finish 200, forming a seal, the mouth being the open volume between diametrically opposing inwardly facing surfaces 204 of rim 208 of finish 200. Inner cylindrical wall 110 extends downwardly from annular wall 112 to lower wall 120. The degree of interference fit and dimensions of plug seal 108 and finish 200 determine the sealing force and, thus, these parameters may be adjusted to adjust the degree of sealing force for a given application. The interference fit between plug seal 108 and finish 200Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTmay serve as a locking feature for locking closure 100 to finish 200. Plug seal 108 may include chamfer 122 for guiding plug seal 108 past lip 212 of the mouth of finish 200 as closure 100 is capped onto the container.

[0085] Plug seal 108 may be configured to have a relatively wide sealing interface with finish 200, the sealing interface being the contact area between outwardly facing radial surface 114 and inwardly facing surface 204 of finish 200, the sealing interface being designed to bridge defects (for example, scratches) that may be present in finish 200. An example width for the contact area between outwardly facing radial surface 114 and inwardly facing surface of the finish for finish 200 with an inner diameter of 26 millimeters may be 0.7 millimeters, and for finish 200 with an inner diameter of 48 millimeters may be 1.5 millimeters.

[0086] To enable closure 100 to elastically deform in the region of plug seal 108, closure 100 may be designed for a clearance between outer skirt 126 of outer cylindrical wall 104 of closure 100 and corresponding outer surface 214 of rim 208 of finish 200. The amount of clearance may be at least as much as the amount of interference of plug seal 108 with finish 200. For example, the amount of clearance may be 0.05 millimeters or more for an interference of 0.05 millimeters.

[0087] An interference fit 250 may be provided for threads 102 to ensure that closure 100 is tightly fitted to finish 200. An exemplary interference fit is 0.05 millimeters. Interference fit 324 of threads 102 may also serve as locking feature for locking closure 100 to finish 200. The interference may increase with reduction of the modulus of the material of closure 100.

[0088] Closure 100 includes tamper evidence feature 116, which in FIG. 1 is illustrated in the form of folded band 106 that engages with a tamper evidence ledge 202, or tamper evidence bead, of finish 200. As closure 100 is threaded onto finish 200, folded band 106 rides over ledge 202, and once folded band 106 has cleared ledge 202, fits into place beneath ledge 202, as illustrated in FIG. 1. Tamper evidence feature 116 may include a plurality of spaced-apart bridges 128 that connect folded band 106 to main body 124 of closure 100. In the event that closure 100 is unthreaded from finish 200, folded band 106 will be retained in position by ledge 202. The upward force from unthreading of closure 100 will eventually cause sufficient stress on bridges 128 that they will break, providing evidence that closure 100 has been tampered with.

[0089] Optionally, one or more of bridges 128 may be dimensioned such that its or their breaking stress is greater than the breaking stress of remaining bridges 128 such that the one or more bridges 128 will remain intact to provide a tether to keep closure 100 attached to the bottle upon removal.

[0090] In certain examples of closure 100, a pull tab may be included in place of folded band 106 as tamper evidence feature 116. The pull tab may be configured such that the pull tab must be at least partially removed in order to disengage closure 100 from finish 200.Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCT

[0091] Closure 100 may be thermoformed with a sheet of PET (or any of the materials described herein) with a thickness of 0.22 millimeters to 1.0 millimeters, preferably about 0.5 millimeters.

[0092] In other examples, the interface between annular wall 112 and top surface 210 of rim 208 of finish 200 may serve as a secondary seal. In still other examples, the secondary seal may be formed and / or enhanced by welding the two surfaces together, such as ultrasonically or via direct application of heat.

[0093] In still other examples, the portion of closure 100 with the greatest diameter is cylindrical in shape without any significant outwardly projecting interruptions in the general cylindrical shape. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, lower outer wall 120 of outer cylindrical wall 104 of main body 124, which is at the greatest diameter of closure 100, may be vertical, which may enable the use of conventional capping equipment, which is typically designed to grip onto cylindrical shapes.

[0094] Lower wall 130 extends across a bottom of inner cylindrical wall 110. In certain examples, lower wall 130 may have a concave upward shape as illustrated in the example in FIG. 1 that, when pressure is applied (upward against lower wall 130 from pressurized contents of the container that closure 100 closes, becoming convex downward. A change in shape may result in the pressure applied to lower wall 130 increasing the pressure on the sealing interface between plug seal 108 and finish 200. In other examples, lower wall 130 may include one or more ridges, such as cylindrical ridges, or other features to control a shape that lower wall 130 may form when under pressure.

[0095] Thermoformed polyester resin closures may be configured with an external seal instead of or in addition to a plug seal. External seals may be easier to thermoform than plug seals and may provide sufficient sealing for at least some beverages. Optionally, a heat shrinking step may be used to solidify the external seal of the closure.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 2, a diametrical cross-sectional view of another example of a thermoformed resin closure 300 that includes external seal 380 for sealing to finish 350 of a container is illustrated. Closure 300 may be made of any of the polyester resins described herein. External seal 380 may be provided by an interference fit between an inner surface 302 of the top end of closure 300 and outer surface 354 of mouth 352 of finish 350. An exemplary interference fit may be 0.05 milliliters.

[0097] Similar to closure 100 illustrated in FIG. 1, closure 300 may be configured for threaded engagement with finish 350 or may be configured for a snap-on pressure fit engagement with finish 350. Closure 300 may also include a tamper evidence feature such as folded band 304 like folded band 106 in closure 100.Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCT

[0098] Referring to FIG. 3, a perspective view of yet another example of a closure 400 is illustrated. Outer wall 402 of closure 400 includes a plurality of threaded portions 404 equally distributed around outer wall 402. In between each of the plurality of threaded portions is each of a plurality of knurled portions 406, the plurality of knurled portions 406 equally distributed around outer wall 402. The knurls (or “ridges”) of the plurality of knurled portions 406 may be axial and extend at least part of the way between annular wall 408 and lower outer wall 410.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 4A, a perspective view of yet another example of a closure 450, which is formed but not fully processed about a finish of a container, is illustrated. Lower wall 452 includes tamper evidence feature 456 and folded band 454 that has not been processed to fold behind tamper evidence feature 456 and under a ledge of a finish (not shown). FIG. 4B illustrates a perspective view of yet another example of a closure 460 that has been fully processed with folded band 454 processed to fold behind tamper evidence feature 456 and under a ledge of a finish (not shown).

[0100] Referring to FIG. 5, a diametrical cross-sectional view of yet another example of a closure 500 including a plurality of internal knurls 504 about the circumference of an inner surface of tamper evidence feature 502. Plurality of internal knurls 504 may result in unconventional handling by contacting a surface of folded band 506 when closure 500 is processed on a finish of a container.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 6, a partial diametrical cross-sectional view of the example of closure 500 illustrated in FIG. 5 processed on a finish 600 of a container is illustrated. As illustrated in FIG. 6, a surface of folded band 506 is in contact with plurality of internal knurls 504 of tamper evidence feature 502.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 7, a perspective view of yet another example of a closure 700 is illustrated. Closure 700 includes a tamper evidence feature including a folded band 702 that is folded outward around outer wall 706 of closure 700. Folded band 702 includes a plurality of slits 704 that are evenly distributed circumferentially about folded band 702.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 8, a side view of yet another example of a closure 800 is illustrated. Closure 800 includes a plurality of threads 802 evenly distributed about a side wall of closure 800, each distinct thread of the plurality of threads 802 including one of a corresponding plurality of thread starts 804.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 9A, a side view of yet another example of a closure 900 is illustrated. FIG. 9C illustrates closure 900 in a perspective view. Closure 900 includes one thread 902, with one thread start 904 at the beginning of thread 902. Tamper evidence feature 906 includes a plurality of knurls distributed circumferentially about closure 900. FIG. 9B illustrates a side viewAttorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTof yet another example of a closure 950, and FIG. 9D illustrates closure 950 in a perspective view. Closure 950 includes a plurality of threads 952, such as, for example, three threads distributed evenly about the side wall of closure 950. Each of the plurality of threads 952 includes one of a corresponding plurality of thread starts 954. In certain examples, an example of closure 900 may be compatible with industry standard container finish PCO 1881. In other examples, an example of closure 950 may be compatible with industry standard container finish 26 / 22 mm. FIGs. 9A, 9B, 9C, and 9D illustrate that closures 900, 950 may be prepared from polyester resins described herein for a variety of finish formats with a range of numbers of thread starts and in a range of sizes.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 10, a side view of yet another example of a closure 1000 is illustrated. Closure 1000 includes a plurality of threads 1002, each of which includes one of a corresponding plurality of thread starts 1004. In certain examples, plurality of threads 1002 may include three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, or more distinct threads, corresponding, respectively, to a plurality of thread starts 1004, which may include three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, or more distinct thread starts in a number that equals the number of threads. Plurality of threads 1002 may allow snap-on application of closure 1000 to a finish of a container, and twist-off removal of closure 1000 from the finish.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 11 A, a perspective view of yet another example of a closure 1100 is illustrated. Closure 1100 includes two separate thermoformed layers that are subsequently combined: outer layer 1104, which includes a plurality of knurls 1102 distributed circumferentially about an outer surface of an outer layer of the outer cylindrical wall of outer layer 1104, and inner layer 1106, which includes thread 1108 on an inner surface of the inner layer outer cylindrical wall. Outer layer 1104 includes first shaped downward depression 1120 in an outer layer lower wall, and inner layer 1106 includes a second shaped downward depression 1118 in an inner layer lower wall, as the perspective diametrical cross-sectional view of FIG. 11B illustrates. As illustrated in the diametrical cross-sectional view in FIG. 11C, a lower surface 1114 of first shaped downward depression 1120 may confront and lock axially against an upper surface 1116 of second shaped downward depression 1118. Outer layer 1104 includes outer layer folded band 1110 disposed radially outward along a bottom circumference of the outer layer of the outer cylindrical wall which may confront and lock within a groove of inner layer folded band 1112. Outer layer 1104 and inner layer 1106 may lock rotationally and axially when combined, but may be thermoformed separately so that plurality of knurls 1102 and inner thread 1108 may both be defined by direct contact with a surface of a mold.Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCT

[0107] Referring to FIG. 12A, a perspective view of yet another example of a closure 1200 is illustrated. Closure 1200 may be used with a finish of a container including a wide mouth. Closure 1200 includes thread 1204 and top surface 1202. Closure 1200 may be configured to close over a seal 1210. Seal 1210 may be attached to top surface 1232 of a finish 1230 of a container about circumference 1212 of seal 1210. Seal 1210 may be a foil seal. Seal 1210 may be configured as a tamper evidence feature that indicates whether a container has been opened by breaking contact between circumference 1212 and top surface 1232. Seal 1210 may include a brand logo on a face of seal 1210 facing top surface 1202 of closure 1200. FIG. 12B illustrates the closure-seal combination 1220 of closure 1200 with seal 1210 when seal 1210 is within closure 1200 and visible through top surface 1202. FIG. 12C illustrates a perspective view of closure-seal combination 1220 on finish 1230. Thread 1204 of closure contacts thread 1234 of finish 1230, such that closure 1200 covers seal 1210. Under closure 1200, circumference 1212 of seal 1210 is attached to top surface 1232.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 13, a perspective diametrical cross-sectional view of yet another example of a closure 1300 on a finish 1350 of a container is illustrated. Finish 1350 may have a wide diameter, corresponding to a container with a wide mouth. Top surface 1302 of closure 1300 includes circumference 1304 that is ultrasonically or thermally bonded to top surface 1352 of finish 1350

[0109] Referring to FIG. 14, a perspective view of yet another example of a closure 1400 is illustrated. Closure 1400 includes branding feature 1402 in a top wall, or top surface, of closure 1400, which may be selectively colored. The geometry of closure 1400 may enhance the surface stiffness of closure 1400.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 15A, a partial perspective view of a chuck 1510 surrounding a closure 1500, according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, is illustrated. The chuck 1510 includes an upper wall 1511 with a part 1511a shown seated against a top surface of an annular wall of a closure, and a second part 1511b seated against a top surface 1501 of the closure 1500. In some embodiments, part 1511a can engage knurling on the top of the closure 1500, for example the knurling 1102 of the closure 1100 illustrated in FIG. 11A. For example, second part 151 la, or which ever surface is complimentary to the closure, can have complementary geometry to engage any knurls on the closure. In some embodiments, the upper wall 1511 can include a cavity, illustrated as a rectangular lumen. The cavity can engage with a drive unit to apply a torque to the chuck 1510 to drive the closure 1500 onto a finish of a container. While the cavity is illustrated as extending through the entire thickness of the upper wall 1511, the cavity may only extend partially through the thickness. In some embodiments, the cavity can be generally square,Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTrectangular, triangular, any polygonal shape, cylindrical, or other shape. The chuck 1510 further includes an outer wall 1512 extending downward from the upper wall 1511. The outer wall 1512 is shown having a first portion 1512a adapted to engage an outer cylindrical wall 1502 of the closure 1500, and a second portion 1512b adapted to engage a tamper-evidence band 1503 of the closure 1500. The outer wall 1512 is configured to stabilize the tamper-evidence band 1503 while engaging the closure 1500 to a finish of a container.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 15B, a close-up view of an engagement between the outer wall 1512 of the chuck 1510 and the tamper-evidence band 1503 of the closure 1500 is illustrated. As shown, the first portion 1512a is engaged with the outer cylindrical wall 1502 and the second portion 1512b is engaged with the tamper-evidence band 1503. In some embodiments, the second portion 1512b can include spring loaded detents that can engage the tamper-evidence band 1503. The engagement between the second portion 1512b and the tamper-evidence band 1503 can be maintained while applying the closure 1500 to a container, allowing the connection (e.g., any bridges) between the tamper-evidence band 1503 and the outer cylindrical wall 1502 to remain intact during the application. The connection is then intended to break upon removing the closure 1500 from the container, serving as tamper evidence.

[0112] Additionally, or alternatively, the chuck 1510 can help reduce broken bridges and reduce tamper evidence band breakage during the application of a cap to a bottle. In some embodiments, the chuck 1510 can do this with two distinct features: the second portion 1512b can have a chuck diameter that encapsulates the tamper evidence band of the cap with a larger diameter than the tamper evidence band itself. The larger inner diameter of the second portion 1512b can allow for temporary expansion in the radial direction of the tamper evidence band 1503 as the band passes over bottle finish features. Second, the inside surface of the second portion 1512b of the chuck 1510 that encapsulates the band 1503 allows for torque transmission- but no or minimal top load transmission- to the tamper evidence band 1503 in this expanded state. The lack of top load transmission can prevent excessive tensile stress on the bridges during application, and the ability to transmit torque can ensure that the band 1503 does not lag behind the cap 1502 while rotating onto the bottle (and instead keeps the band in phase with the cap). The inner surface of the chuck 1510 which contacts the expanded tamper evidence band 1503 can be designed to transmit torque in many ways, including but not limited to a matching knurl pattern to the tamper evidence band, a toothed surface which can interact with the band via interference fit, or an elastic surface that can comply to the band shape once expanded. In an embodiment, to further reduce tensile hoop stress on the tamper evidence band 1503 the gap between the tamper evidence band 1503 and features on the finish of the container can be reduced to a temporary smaller value. The reducedAttorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTgap can force most of the strain accommodation of passing over bottle features to be accommodated by a temporary folding of the tabs or flaps protruding from the tamper evidence band 1503. In an embodiment the tabs can be the same, or similar to the folded band 106, as shown in FIG. 1. These tabs can be folded at a hinge which can allow for additional compression during capping to provide stress relief to the band while passing over bottle features, including finally passing over and locking behind the tamper evidence bead on the finish. Allowing for some expansion of the band, and intentionally transmitting minimal-to-no top load while still transmitting torque in this expanded state can allow for fewer broken bridges during cap application, fewer broken tamper evidence bands during cap application, reduced torque requirements during cap application. The former two have economic benefits and the latter is a product quality benefit.

[0113] FIGS. 16A-16B illustrate a diagram flowchart and partial side view, respectively, of a chuck including an insert for adjusting a plug seal of the closure, according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. For example, the insert can be disposed on a bottom surface of the upper wall of the chuck and can be aligned with the plug seal of the closure. As the chuck is capping the closure, the insert can apply a downward force on the plug seal to ensure proper engagement of the plug seal with the finish. Referring to FIG. 16A, a photograph of a closure (i) is provided, followed by a side view diagram (ii) of the closure. Here, the closure includes a plug seal at a top portion of the closure and tabs, i.e., one or more folding tabs, at a bottom part of the closure, i.e., at a distal end of an outer cylindrical wall. FIG. 16A further includes diagram of a side view of a chuck engaging the closure (iii), as well as a diagram of a side view of a chuck including an insert below an upper wall of the chuck that interfaces with a plug seal of the closure. Here, the insert allows for separation between the upper wall of the chuck and the plug seal such that there is space between an annular wall of the closure and the upper wall of the chuck. FIG.16A further includes a diagram of a side view of the insert of the chuck engaging the closure (v). As the chuck is pressed against the closure, the insert is allowed to contact and stretch the plug seal down and in toward a center of the closure. A diameter and a delta (i.e., a critical offset) are two variables of the closure that may be adjusted based on an impact on an effective diameter of the plug seal when engaging the closure with the chuck or capping the closure onto a container. A critical offset is a lateral distance between an edge of the insert and an inner surface of an outer wall of a chuck, as shown in FIG. 16B. In some embodiments, such an adjustment may be temporary. In particular, temporarily reducing a diameter of the plug seal during capping may allow reduce wear and friction between a finish of the container and the plug seal. Such an adjustment allows for a more pristine seal due to a lower force being applied during capping.Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTReferring to FIG. 16B, an outline of an insert for pushing down on the plug seal is illustrated, showing a rounded shape rather than a flat shape of the insert as shown in FIG. 16A. Such a diagram indicates that an insert can have multiple shapes, depending on a desired diameter of the plug seal during capping. While certain variable values, or dimensions, are shown in FIG. 16B, these are merely an example and are not intended to limited the scope of this disclosure.

[0114] The present disclosure additionally provides methods of making closures described herein.

[0115] In an example, a method of making a closure described herein may include thermoforming a sheet of polyester resin into the closure. In certain examples, the thermoforming may include applying the sheet of polyester resin to a male mold.

[0116] In another example, a method of making a closure described herein may include injection molding or compression molding a polyester resin into the closure.

[0117] The present disclosure additionally provides methods of sterilizing closures and containers described herein.

[0118] In an example, a method of sterilizing a closure and a container described herein may include applying the closure to the container, and exposing the closure and the container to a source of electromagnetic radiation of a wavelength of from 200 to 300 nanometers. In certain examples, the exposing may be for a duration from 1 minute, or from 2 minutes, or from 5 minutes, or from 10 minutes, or from 15 minutes, or from 20 minutes, or from 25 minutes to 30 minutes or more; or from 2 minutes to 5 minutes, or to 10 minutes, or to 15 minutes, or to 20 minutes, or to 25 minutes, or to 30 minutes or more; or any range made from any two of the foregoing numbers, including any subranges therebetween. In other examples, the source of electromagnetic radiation may be of a wavelength of 253 nanometers to 254 nanometers. In still other examples, the source of electromagnetic radiation may be of a wavelength of from 255 nanometers to 280 nanometers. In still other examples, the source of electromagnetic radiation may be of a wavelength of about 230 nanometers. Examples of sources of electromagnetic radiation may include a low-pressure mercury lamp, ultraviolet light-emitting diodes, and a pulsed-xenon lamp.

[0119] The uses of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the present disclosure (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of the term “plurality of’ is defined by the Applicant in the broadest sense, superseding any other implied definitions or limitations hereinbefore or hereinafter unless expressly asserted by Applicant to the contrary, to mean a quantity of more than one. All methods described herein may be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein by context.Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCT

[0120] As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and all purposes, all ranges recited herein also encompass any and all possible sub-ranges and combinations of sub-ranges thereof, as well as the individual values making up the range, particularly integer values. It is therefore understood that each unit between two particular units is also disclosed. For example, if “10 to 15” is disclosed, then 11, 12, 13, and 14 are also disclosed, individually, and as part of a range. A recited range (for example, weight percentages or carbon groups) includes each specific value, integer, decimal, or identity within the range. Any listed range may be easily recognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range being broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, or tenths. As will also be understood by one skilled in the art, all language such as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” “more than,” “or more,” and the like, include the number recited and such terms refer to ranges that can be subsequently broken down into subranges. In the same manner, all ratios recited herein also include all sub-ratios falling within the broader ratio. Accordingly, specific values recited for radicals, substituents, and ranges are for illustration only; they do not exclude other defined values or other values within defined ranges for radicals and substituents. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

[0121] One skilled in the art will also readily recognize that where members are grouped together in a common manner, such as in a Markush group, the invention encompasses not only the entire group listed as a whole, but each member of the group individually and all possible subgroups of the main group. Additionally, for all purposes, the invention encompasses not only the main group, but also the main group absent one or more of the group members. The invention therefore envisages the explicit exclusion of any one or more of members of a recited group. Accordingly, provisos may apply to any of the disclosed categories or examples whereby any one or more of the recited elements, species, or examples may be excluded from such categories or examples, for example, for use in an explicit negative limitation.

[0122] As used herein, the terms “comprise(s),” “include(s),” “having,” “has,” “can,” “contain(s),” and variants thereof, are intended to be open-ended transitional phrases, terms, or words that do not preclude the possibility of additional acts or structures. The present description also contemplates other examples “comprising,” “consisting of,” and “consisting essentially of,” the examples or elements presented herein, whether explicitly set forth or not.

[0123] In describing elements of the present disclosure, the terms “1st,” “2nd,” “first,” “second,” “A,” “B,” “(a),” “(b),” and the like may be used herein. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element, but do not limit the corresponding elements irrespective of the nature or order of the corresponding elements.Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCT

[0124] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meanings as those generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. Such terms as those defined in a generally used dictionary are to be interpreted as having meanings equal to the contextual meanings in the relevant field of art.

[0125] As used herein, the term “about,” when used in the context of a numerical value or range set forth means a variation of ±15%, ±14%, ±10%, or ±5%, among others, would satisfy the definition of “about,” unless more narrowly defined in particular instances.

[0126] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to examples and the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, but may be variously modified and altered by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0127] The subject-matter of the disclosure may also relate, among others, to the following aspects:

[0128] In addition to the features mentioned in each of the independent aspects enumerated above, some examples may show, alone or in combination, the optional features mentioned in the dependent aspects and / or as disclosed in the description above and shown in the figures.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTCLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A chuck for a closure for mounting onto a finish of a container, the chuck comprising: an upper wall configured to seat against one or more of a top surface of an annular wall of a closure or a top wall of the closure; andan outer wall extending downward from the upper wall, the outer wall having (a) a first portion adapted to engage an outer cylindrical wall of the closure, and (b) a second portion adapted to engage a tamper-evidence band of the closure;wherein the outer wall is configured to stabilize the tamper-evidence band while engaging the closure to a finish of a container.

2. The chuck of claim 1, wherein the first portion of the outer wall is adapted to engage the outer cylindrical wall at a plurality of locations along a height of the outer cylindrical wall.

3. The chuck of claim 1, wherein the second portion of the outer wall is adapted to engage the tamper-evidence band at a plurality of locations along a height of the tamper-evidence band.

4. The chuck of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the outer wall varies along a height of the outer wall.

5. The chuck of claim 1, wherein the second portion is configured to apply a torque to the tamper-evidence band.

6. The chuck of claim 1, wherein a diameter of the second portion is larger than an outer diameter of the tamper-evidence band.

7. A system for mounting a closure onto a finish of a container, the system comprising: a closure comprising at least one layer of thermoplastic material, the closure further comprising:(a) a top wall;Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCT(b) an annular wall surrounding the top wall and configured to seat against a top surface of a rim of the finish;(c) an outer cylindrical wall extending downward from the annular wall, the outer cylindrical wall spaced outwardly from an outer surface of the rim of the finish to provide a clearance between the closure and the outer surface of the rim of the finish; and(d) a tamper-evidence band connected to the outer cylindrical wall via a connection, the tamper-evidence band being configured to engage with a tamper-evidence ledge of the finish;a chuck comprising:an upper wall configured to seat against one or more of a top surface of an annular wall of a closure or the top wall of the closure; andan outer wall extending downward from the upper wall, the outer wall having (a) a first portion adapted to engage an outer cylindrical wall of the closure and (b) a second portion adapted to engage the tamper-evidence band of the closure;wherein the outer wall and the tamper-evidence band are configured to remain relatively fixed when the chuck is engaging the closure to the finish of the container; and a rotational module configured to engage the closure onto the finish of the container.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the top wall comprises a plug seal configured to seal against an inner surface of the finish.

9. The system of claim 7, wherein the top wall is configured to sit against the top surface of the rim of the finish of the container.

10. The system of claim 7, wherein the connection comprises a plurality of spaced-apart bridges between the tamper-evidence band and the outer cylindrical wall of the closure.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the plurality of spaced-apart bridges are configured to break when the closure is unthreaded from the finish of the container.

12. The system of claim 10, wherein the tamper-evidence band is configured to be retained in position by a ledge of the finish when the closure is unthreaded from the finish.

13. The system of claim 7, wherein the tamper-evidence band comprises a folded band.Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCT14. The system of claim 7, wherein the closure further comprises an inner cylindrical wall that extends downwardly from the annular wall, the inner cylindrical wall configured such that an outwardly facing surface of the inner cylindrical wall has an interference fit with an inwardly facing surface of the finish of the container for scaling against the inwardly facing surface of the finish.

15. The system of claim 7, wherein the thermoplastic material comprises polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene furandi carboxyl ate, or a copolymer of polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene furandi carb oxy late.

16. The system of claim 7, wherein the closure further comprises one or more paper layer.

17. The system of claim 7, wherein the finish comprises one or more threads.

18. The system of claim 7, wherein the outer cylindrical wall comprises external threads configured to engage with the finish.

19. The system of claim 7, wherein the outer cylindrical wall comprises internal threads configured to engage with the finish.

20. A method of engaging a closure onto a finish of a container, the closure comprising:(a) a top wall;(b) an annular wall surrounding the top wall and configured to seat against a top surface of a rim of the finish;(c) an outer cylindrical wall extending downward from the annular wall, the outer cylindrical wall spaced outwardly from an outer surface of the rim of the finish to provide a clearance between the closure and the outer surface of the rim of the finish; and(d) a tamper-evidence band connected to the outer cylindrical wall, the tamperevidence band being configured to engage with a tamper-evidence ledge of the finish;the method comprising:fitting a chuck onto the closure, the chuck comprising:an upper wall configured to seat against one or more of a top surface of an annular wall of a closure or the top wall of the closure; andan outer wall extending downward from the upper wall, the outer wall having (a) a first portion adapted to engage an outer cylindrical wall of the closure,Attorney Docket No. 227254-716601 / PCTand (b) a second portion adapted to engage a tamper-evidence band of the closure; andcontrollably engaging the closure onto the finish of the container;wherein a connection between the outer wall and the tamper-evidence band is configured to remain intact while engaging the closure to the finish of the container using the chuck.

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