closure

Abstract

A tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position, the closure comprises a tamper-evident member which moves upon first opening of the lid to indicate the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident member comprises a hollow and the closure further comprises a projection which in the closed position is located out of the hollow and which can engage the hollow during first opening to cause, or help cause, the tamper-evident member to move.

Description

[0001] P12903PC01

[0002] CLOSURE

[0003] The present invention relates generally to closures and particularly, although not exclusively to tamper-evident closures and / or tethered closures.

[0004] Tamper-evident closures are well known and include some means for indicating the closure has been opened / used at least once. In order for such closures to be effective the tamper-evident mechanism must be reliable i.e. it should activate when the closure is opened for the first time.

[0005] Tethered closures are a type of closures that are permanently attached to a container / bottle, preventing it from becoming separated and littered during or after consumption of product. Arranged on the lower edge of the cap wall of closure caps of this type is a retaining / tethering ring that typically engages beneath a bead on a container mouth when the closure cap is in position. On opening the container, the upper cap portion can be removed from the container to enable dispensing, while the lower retaining ring remains firmly connected to the container.

[0006] The present invention seeks to provide improvements in or relating to closures.

[0007] An aspect of the present invention provides a tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position, the closure comprises a tamper-evident member which moves upon first opening of the lid to indicate the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident member comprises a hollow and the closure further comprises a projection which in the closed position is located out of the hollow and which can engage the hollow during first opening to cause, or help cause, the tamper-evident member to move.

[0008] An aspect of the present invention provides a tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position via a hinge, the closure comprises a tamper-evident member which being detached from the closure lid and remaining adjacent to the base upon first opening of the lid to indicate the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident member comprises an aperture and at least one projection and the closure base further comprises a projection which engages the aperture during first opening and the at least one projection engages with engagement means located at the outer surface of the side skirt of the base to cause, or help cause, the tamper-evident member to move.

[0009] An aspect of the present invention provides a tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position, the closure comprises a tamper-evident member which moves upon first opening of the lid to indicate the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident member comprises a hollowP12903PC01

[0010] and the closure further comprises a projection which engages the hollow during first opening to cause, or help cause, the tamper-evident member to move.

[0011] The (or each) hollow may be a through hole or a depression.

[0012] The projection / s for the hollow may be engaged prior to opening and / or during opening.

[0013] The closure may, for example, comprise projections (e.g. hooks) to engage a member from both sides. In one embodiment, for example, inner and outer hooks / projections are provided to engage a tamper tab from both sides. Either or both of the hooks may engage the hole (and / or other part / s of the member).

[0014] The tamper-evident member may further comprise a hook portion. The hook portion may, for example, engage a part of the closure (e.g. a lip) when the lid is being opened to cause it to break away. In some embodiments a tamper-evident tab is provided with a hook at a lower end, for engaging an inward overhang on a fixing ring. The overhang may cause a frangibly held tab to break away from a cap.

[0015] The tamper-evident member may be a tab or the like.

[0016] In some embodiments the tamper-evident member is initially frangibly connected to the closure and when the lid is opened it drops (down).

[0017] In some embodiments in the unopened position at least part of the tamper-evident member is visible and in which upon first opening the tamper-evident member moves so as to be at least partly hidden from view.

[0018] The lid may comprise a cap and a fixing ring and it is the lid cap which moves between the closed and open positions. The fixing ring is attachable to the base.

[0019] In some embodiments the tamper evident member is located on the cap and the fixing ring may at least partly defines a void, and the tamper evident member may move at least partly into the void upon first opening of the closure.

[0020] The tamper evident member may be frangibly connected to the cap and said frangible connections are breakable upon first opening of the closure.

[0021] The closure may comprise a dispensing spout. The spout may be formed integrally with the base, or may be formed separately from and be attachable to the base.P12903PC01

[0022] The closure may further comprise a retaining ring arranged under the base for retaining the closure on the container.

[0023] The closure may comprise a tethering arrangement which permits axial separation of the base from the ring and allows the base to be removed from the container whilst remaining tethered to the ring.

[0024] The tethering arrangement may comprise first and second arms which are non-frangibly connected to the base at one end and non-frangibly connected to the ring at the other end.

[0025] The closure may comprise a hinge arrangement so that the lid is movable between the closed and open positions.

[0026] In embodiments where the lid comprises a cap and a fixing ring the cap may be connected to the ring by a hinge arrangement. In other embodiments a lid is hingedly attached to a base.

[0027] In some embodiments the tethering arrangement is provided generally diametrically opposite the hinge arrangement.

[0028] Closures formed in accordance with the present invention may be configured as a flip-top sports closure.

[0029] A further aspect provides a flip top closure for a container, comprising a base and a lid, the lid and the base are connected to each other by a hinge arrangement so that the lid is movable between a closed and an open position with respect to the base, the closure further comprises a retaining ring arranged under the base for retaining the closure on the container.

[0030] A further aspect provides a flip-top sports closure for a container, comprising a base and a lid, the closure comprises a hinge arrangement so that the lid is movable between a closed and an open position with respect to the base, the closure further comprises a retaining ring arranged under the base for retaining the closure on the container.

[0031] In embodiments where the lid comprises a cap and a fixing ring the cap may be connected to the ring by a hinge arrangement.

[0032] The closure may comprise a tethering arrangement which permits axial separation of the base from the ring and allows the base to be removed from the container whilst remaining tethered to the ring.P12903PC01

[0033] The tethering arrangement may comprise first and second arms which are non-frangibly connected to the base at one end and non-frangibly connected to the ring at the other end.

[0034] The tethering arrangement (which may itself function like a hinge) may be provided generally diametrically opposite the hinge arrangement for the lid (or lid cap).

[0035] The tethering arrangement may comprise a tongue for providing a stable open position of the lid. The tongue may, for example, engage the container neck or the retaining ring to provide the stable open position.

[0036] The closure may further comprise tamper-evident means; for example a tamper-evident drop tab as described herein.

[0037] In embodiments of the present invention the closure may be formed (e.g. moulded from a plastics material) in an open position and then closed (possibly in the mould).

[0038] A further aspect of the present invention provides a closure comprising a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed and an open position, the closure comprising alignment means for aligning the lid as it moves to the closed position.

[0039] The closure may be generally cylindrical. The alignment may be rotational and / or axial alignment.

[0040] In some embodiments cooperating alignment means are provided on a lid and a base, for example in a one-piece closure.

[0041] The lid may be (directly) connected to the base by a hinge.

[0042] In some embodiments the lid comprises a cap and a fixing ring. The fixing ring may be connected or connectable to a base, for example in a two-piece closure. Cooperating alignment means may be provided on the cap and the ring.

[0043] The cap may be connected to the fixing ring by a hinge.

[0044] The lid (which could be a cap) may comprise a sidewall and alignment means may be provided on or by the sidewall, for example at the free end thereof.

[0045] The alignment means may comprise one or more flanges / wings. In some embodiments, for example, alignment means is provided in the formed of a pair of flanges, such as lateral flanges. Diametrically opposed lateral flanges could be provided on a generally cylindrical sidewall.P12903PC01

[0046] The closure may comprise one or more recesses for receiving the or each flange. In some embodiments, for example, recesses are provided on a fixing ring for receiving flanges on a cap. The reverse arrangement is possible i.e. flange / s on a fixing ring and recess / es on a cap.

[0047] The closure may comprise tamper-evident means. The tamper-evident means may comprise a tab, strip, ring or the like. The tamper-evident means may be frangibly connected.

[0048] The tamper-evident member may be initially frangibly connected to the closure and when the lid is opened it may drop down.

[0049] In the unopened position of the closure at least part of the tamper-evident member may be visible and upon first opening the tamper-evident member may move so as to be at least partly hidden from view.

[0050] The tamper evident member may be located on the cap and the fixing ring of the base may at least partly define a pocket, and the tamper evident member may move at least partly into the pocket upon first opening of the closure.

[0051] The closure may be formed so that a tamper-evident member is initially frangibly connected (e.g. to a cap) and the frangible connection may be breakable upon first opening of the closure (e.g. first movement from the closed to the open position).

[0052] The closure may be formed (e.g. moulded from a plastics material) with the lid in an open position.

[0053] In some embodiments the lid is moved to an initially closed position by in-mould closing.

[0054] The closure may comprise a dispensing spout. The spout may be formed integrally with the base or may be formed separately therefrom and is attachable thereto.

[0055] The closure may further comprise a retaining ring arranged under the base for retaining the closure on the container.

[0056] The closure may comprise a tethering arrangement which permits axial separation of the base from the retaining ring and allows the base to be removed from the container whilst remaining tethered to the ring.

[0057] The tethering arrangement may comprise a pair of arms non-frangibly connected to the base and the ring. The arms may be connected to the base by film hinges. A tongue may beP12903PC01

[0058] provided between the arms e.g. depending from the base between the film hinges. The circumferential extent of the tongue may be greater than the sum of the circumferential extents of the film hinges.

[0059] The tethering arrangement may comprise first and second arms which are non-frangibly connected to the base at one end and non-frangibly connected to the ring at the other end.

[0060] The closure may comprise a hinge arrangement and the tethering arrangement is provided generally (diametrically) opposite the hinge arrangement.

[0061] A further aspect provides a tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid comprises a cap and a fixing ring, the fixing ring connects the lid to the base, the cap is connected to the fixing ring by a hinge, the closure comprises a tamper-evident member that becomes detached from the closure lid and remains adjacent to the base upon first opening of the lid to indicate the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident member comprises an aperture and at least one projection , the fixing ring comprises a rear hook which can engage the aperture during first opening of the lid and a front hook which can engage the at least one protection during opening of the lid, and wherein the base exhibit a tethered hinge arrangement .which permits axial separation of the base whilst remaining tethered through the hinge arrangement to the container.

[0062] Closures formed in accordance with the present invention may be configured as a flip-top sports closure.

[0063] The present invention also provides a closure as described herein in combination with a container, for example a beverage container.

[0064] Further aspects and embodiments are listed in the following numbered paragraphs.

[0065] 1. A tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position via a hinge, the closure comprises a tamper-evident member which being detached from the closure lid and remaining adjacent to the base upon first opening of the lid to indicate the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident member comprises an aperture and at least one projection and the closure base further comprises a projection which engages the aperture during first opening and the at least one projection engages with engagement means located at the outer surface of the side skirt of the base to cause, or help cause, the tamper-evident member to move.

[0066] 2. A closure according to paragraph 1, in which the hollow is an aperture / window (a through hole).P12903PC01

[0067] 3. A closure according to paragraph 1 or paragraph 2, in which the closure comprises projections to engage the member from both sides (e.g. front and rear).

[0068] 4. A closure according to any preceding paragraph, in which the tamper-evident member further comprises hook portion, with an aperture, preferably wherein the closure provides two hooks (e.g. to the front and rear of the tab).

[0069] 5. A closure according to any preceding paragraph, in which the tamper-evident member is a tab or the like.

[0070] 6. A closure according to any preceding paragraph, in which the tamper-evident member is initially frangibly connected to the closure and when the lid is opened it drops down.

[0071] 7. A closure according to any preceding paragraph, in which in the unopened position at least part of the tamper-evident member is visible and in which upon first opening the tamper-evident member moves so as to be at least partly hidden from view.

[0072] 8. A closure according to any preceding paragraph, in which the lid comprises a cap and a fixing ring and the lid cap moves between the closed and open positions.

[0073] 9. A closure according to paragraph 8, in which the tamper evident member is located on the cap and the fixing ring at least partly defines a void, and wherein the tamper evident member moves at least partly into the void upon first opening of the closure.

[0074] 10. A closure according to paragraph 9, in which the tamper evident member is frangibly connected to the cap and said frangible connections are breakable upon first opening of the closure.

[0075] 11. A closure according to any preceding paragraph, comprising a dispensing spout.

[0076] 12. A closure according to paragraph 11, in which the spout is formed integrally with the base.

[0077] 13. A closure according to any preceding paragraph, in which the closure further comprises a retaining ring arranged under the base for retaining the closure on the container.

[0078] 14. A closure according to paragraph 13, in which the closure comprises a tethering arrangement which permits axial separation of the base from the ring and allows the base to be removed from the container whilst remaining tethered to the ring.P12903PC01

[0079] 15. A closure according to paragraph 14, in which the tethering arrangement comprises first and second arms which are non-frangibly connected to the base at one end and non-frangibly connected to the ring at the other end.

[0080] 16. A closure according to any preceding paragraph, in which the closure comprises a hinge arrangement so that the lid is movable between the closed and open positions.

[0081] 17. A closure according to paragraph 16 when dependent on paragraph 15 or paragraph 16, in which the tethering arrangement is provided generally diametrically opposite the hinge arrangement.

[0082] 18. A closure according to any preceding paragraph and configured as a flip-top sports closure.

[0083] 19. A flip top sports closure for a container, comprising a base and a lid, the closure comprises a hinge arrangement so that the lid is movable between a closed and an open position with respect to the base, the closure further comprises a retaining ring arranged under the base for retaining the closure on the container.

[0084] 20. A closure according to paragraph 19, in which the closure comprises a tethering arrangement which permits axial separation of the base from the ring and allows the base to be removed from the container whilst remaining tethered to the ring.

[0085] 21. A closure according to paragraph 20, in which the tethering arrangement comprises first and second arms which are non-frangibly connected to the base at one end and non-frangibly connected to the ring at the other end.

[0086] 22. A closure according to paragraph 20 or paragraph 21, in which the tethering arrangement is provided generally diametrically opposite the hinge arrangement.

[0087] 23. A closure according to any of paragraphs 20 to 22, in which the tethering arrangement comprises a tongue for providing a stable open position of the lid.

[0088] 24. A closure according to any of paragraphs 19 to 23, further comprising tamper-evident means.

[0089] 25. A closure according to any preceding paragraph in combination with a container.P12903PC01

[0090] 26. A closure comprising a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed and an open position, the closure comprising alignment means for aligning the lid as it moves to the closed position.

[0091] 27. A closure according to paragraph 26, in which cooperating alignment means are provided on the lid and the base.

[0092] 28. A closure according to paragraph 27, in which the lid is connected to the base by a hinge.

[0093] 29. A closure according to paragraph 26, in which the lid comprises a cap and a fixing ring and in which cooperating alignment means are provided on the cap and the ring.

[0094] 30. A closure according to paragraph 29, in which the cap is connected to the fixing ring by a hinge.

[0095] 31. A closure according to any preceding paragraph, in which the lid comprises a sidewall and alignment means are provided on or by the sidewall.

[0096] 32. A closure according to any preceding claim, in which the alignment means comprises one or more flanges.

[0097] 33. A closure according to paragraph 32, comprising a pair of lateral flanges.

[0098] 34. A closure according to paragraph 32 or paragraph 33, comprising one or more recesses for receiving the or each flange.

[0099] 35. A closure according to any preceding paragraph, comprising tamper-evident means.

[0100] 36. A closure according to paragraph 10, in which the tamper-evident means comprises a tab, strip, ring or the like.

[0101] 37. A closure according to paragraph 35 or paragraph 36, in which the tamper-evident member is initially frangibly connected to the closure and when the lid is opened it drops down.

[0102] 38. A closure according to any of paragraphs 35 to 37, in which in the unopened position at least part of the tamper-evident member is visible and in which upon first opening the tamper-evident member moves so as to be at least partly hidden from view.P12903PC01

[0103] 39. A closure according to any of paragraphs 35 to 38, in which the tamper evident member is located on the cap and the fixing ring at least partly defines a void, and wherein the tamper evident member moves at least partly into the void upon first opening of the closure.

[0104] 40. A closure according to paragraph 39, in which the tamper evident member is frangibly connected to the cap and the frangible connection is breakable upon first opening of the closure.

[0105] 41. A closure according to any preceding paragraph, in which the closure is moulded with the lid in an open position.

[0106] 42. A closure according to paragraph 41, in which the lid is moved to an initially closed position by in-mould closing.

[0107] 43. A closure according to any preceding paragraph, comprising a dispensing spout.

[0108] 44. A closure according to paragraph 43, in which the spout is formed integrally with the base.

[0109] 45. A closure according to any preceding paragraph, in which the closure further comprises a retaining ring arranged under the base for retaining the closure on the container.

[0110] 46. A closure according to paragraph 45, in which the closure comprises a tethering arrangement which permits axial separation of the base from the ring and allows the base to be removed from the container whilst remaining tethered to the ring.

[0111] 47. A closure according to paragraph 46, in which the tethering arrangement comprises first and second arms which are non-frangibly connected to the base at one end and non-frangibly connected to the ring at the other end.

[0112] 48. A closure according to paragraph 45 or paragraph 46, in which the tethering arrangement comprises a tongue between the arms, in which the arms are connected to the base by film hinges, and in which the circumferential length of the tongue is greater than the sum of the circumferential lengths of the film hinges.

[0113] 48. A closure according to paragraph 46 or paragraph 47, in which closure comprises a hinge arrangement and the tethering arrangement is provided generally diametrically opposite the hinge arrangement.P12903PC01

[0114] 49. A closure according to any preceding paragraph and configured as a flip-top sports closure.

[0115] 50. A closure according to any preceding claim in combination with a container.

[0116] 51. A closure for a container, the closure comprising a cap part comprising a skirt, a retaining part for retaining the closure on the neck of the container, a tongue extending from the cap skirt towards the retaining part, and a first arm and a second arm positioned on either side of the tongue and connecting the cap skirt to the retaining part, the first arm and the second arm allowing the cap part to be removed from the neck of the container while remaining attached to the retaining part, and when the cap part is actuated to a fully open position the first arm and the second arm cause the tongue to exerts a force against the neck of the container for retaining the cap body in an open position, the first arm and the second arm each comprise a first portion and a second portion, the first portion and the second portion being positioned at an angle in relation to each other when the closure device is in a fully closed position, wherein the first portion lies in a plane substantially parallel to the retaining part, while the second portion extends at an angle from that plane towards the skirt.

[0117] 52. A closure according to paragraph 51, in which each arm is connected to the skirt by a hinge., which is substantially thinner than the tongue, preferably twice as thin as the tongue.

[0118] 53. A closure according to paragraph 52, in which the circumferential extent of the tongue is greater than the combined circumferential / angular extent of the hinges.

[0119] 54. A closure according to any of paragraphs 51 to 53, in which the retaining part comprises a notch corresponding with the tongue.

[0120] 55. A closure according to any of paragraphs 51 to 54, in which the retaining part comprises inclined portions corresponding with the second portions of the arms.

[0121] 56. A closure according to any of paragraphs 52 to 55, in which the hinges connect to the skirt at a point axially above the free end of the skirt.

[0122] 57. A closure according to any of paragraphs 52 to 56, in which the hinges are carried by the second portions of the arms.

[0123] 58. A closure according to any of paragraphs 51 to 57, in which the tongue is initially connected to the retaining part by one or more frangible bridges.P12903PC01

[0124] 59. A closure according to any of paragraphs 51 to 58, in which the arms are connected to the cap skirt and / or retaining part by one or more frangible bridges.

[0125] 60. A closure according to paragraph 58 or 59, in which the bridges are formed by moulding.

[0126] 61. A closure according to paragraph 58 or 59, in which the bridges are formed by slitting.

[0127] 62. A closure according to any of paragraphs 51 to 62, in which the skirt comprises an internal screw thread.

[0128] 63. A tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position, the closure comprises a tamper-evident member which moves upon first opening of the lid to indicate the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident member comprises a hollow and the closure further comprises a projection which in the closed position is located outside (e.g. radially) of the hollow and which can move inside the hollow during first opening to cause, or help cause, the tamper-evident member to move.

[0129] 64. A tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid comprises a cap and a fixing ring, the fixing ring connects the lid to the base, the cap is connected to the fixing ring by a hinge, the closure comprises a tamper-evident member that becomes detached from the closure lid and remains adjacent to the base upon first opening of the lid to indicate the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident member comprises an aperture and at least one projection , the fixing ring comprises a rear hook which can engage the aperture during first opening of the lid and a front hook which can engage the at least one protection during opening of the lid, and wherein the base exhibit a tethered hinge arrangement which permits axial separation of the base whilst remaining tethered through the hinge arrangement to the container.

[0130] Different aspects and embodiments of the invention may be used separately or together.

[0131] Further particular and preferred aspects of the present invention are set out in the accompanying independent and dependent claims. Features of the dependent claims may be combined with the features of the independent claims as appropriate, and in combination other than those explicitly set out in the claims. Each aspect can be carried out independently of the other aspects or in combination with one or more of the other aspects.

[0132] The present invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings.P12903PC01

[0133] The example embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to embody and implement the systems and processes herein described. It is important to understand that embodiments can be provided in many alternative forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein.

[0134] Accordingly, while embodiments can be modified in various ways and take on various alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and described in detail below as examples. There is no intent to limit to the particular forms disclosed. On the contrary, all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims should be included. Elements of the example embodiments are consistently denoted by the same reference numerals throughout the drawings and detailed description where appropriate.

[0135] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein are to be interpreted as is customary in the art. It will be further understood that terms in common usage should also be interpreted as is customary in the relevant art and not in an idealised or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0136] In the following description, all orientational terms, such as upper, lower, radially and axially, are used in relation to the drawings and should not be interpreted as limiting on the invention.

[0137] Figures 1 to 4 show a known tamper-evident flip-top sports closure generally indicated 10 and described in detail in WO 2010 / 112801 A1.

[0138] In brief, the closure 10 comprises a base 15 and a lid 20. The lid 20 comprises a fixing ring 25 and a cap 30. The cap 30 is connected to the ring 25 by a hinge arrangement 35 so that it can be flipped from a closed position (Figures 1 and 3) to an open position (Figure 2).

[0139] The cap 30 includes a tamper-evident drop tab 40 which is frangibly attached at the “front” of the closure, generally opposite the hinge arrangement 35, by frangible bridges 44.

[0140] The tab 40 includes a lower hook 44 and the fixing ring 25 includes an inward lip 27. When the cap 30 is lifted for the first time and flipped over to the open position, the interaction of the hook 44 and the lip 27 means that the tab 40 cannot follow and the bridges 42 are broken. As a result the tab 40 drops down (Figure 4) into, and is retained in, a void / box / cavity 43. The void is formed between the base and the ring.

[0141] At the lower, open end of the base 15 a tamper-evident drop band 17 is provided and defined by a frangible line 19. The base 15 is also provided with an integral drinking spout 16.P12903PC01

[0142] An issue with closures of the type shown in Figures 1 to 4 is illustrated in Figure 5. The tamper evidence is not enough efficient during front pressure at the opening. The tab 140 could go outside.

[0143] Figures 6 to 21 illustrate a two-piece closure 210 with tamper evidence drop tab 240 design on a lid 30. During first opening a tab drops into a pocket 43.

[0144] Figure 12 shows the hole design into the tab to improve the hooking. The cap 230 is shown in an as-moulded state, prior to closing onto a fixing ring.

[0145] The tamper evident feature e.g. a tab 240 is provided with a (roughly central) aperture 250 being generally rectangular shaped. It is contemplated that the aperture 250 may be of other shapes and sizes. For example, the aperture 250 can have a substantially square or substantially oval shape or even two or more apertures or being designed as a horizontal slot or slots. In a preferred embodiment the upper edge of the aperture has an inclined surface of approx. 10, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40,45 and / or preferably 25 ° towards the outer wall of the closure and / or base. This helps the engagement feature 227 to engage and slide into the aperture 250 once the tamper evident feature 250 is being pulled upwards during the attempt to open the lid. In a preferred embodiment, the upper surface of the engagement feature 227 exhibits the same angle of inclination towards the tamper evident feature 240.

[0146] The tamper evident feature 240 exhibit on its lower end a protrusion 244. As evident from Fig.

[0147] 12, this protrusion can exhibit the form of a hook 244, having a concave curved outer wall oriented towards the opening of the closure. Therefore, the middle section 244c is thinner than the edges 244a, 244b, which appears as two wings 244a and 244b. The overall appearance of this protrusion 244 and its specific features 244a, 244b, 244c may vary and may also have a different shape such as being two separate productions having a substantially square, generally circular or generally oval shape. In addition, the location of the protrusion 244 as being shown in the example of Figure 12 as being located underneath the aperture 250, but the skilled person will appreciate the number of protrusions and the location can vary and being located at the edge of the tamper evident feature 240 and / or next to the aperture 250 and / or even above and / or at the back of the tamper evident feature as long as there is a surface which can engage with the at least one engagement feature 227 located at the inner side of the base and / or lid outer wall. It is also possible to have two differently sized protrusion 244 and / or generally offset and thus placed on different locations on the tamper evident feature 240. During the opening process the upper surface of at least one the protrusions 244a, 244b engages with the engagement feature 277 to block the movement of the tamper evident feature 240. These two wings and / or edges 244a and 244b mounted onto the bottom of the tamper evident feature engage with the hook protrusion 227, also called hereinafter the lip hook 227. Hence, a skilledP12903PC01

[0148] person will appreciate that the tamper evident feature 240 exhibits at least one protrusion which is capable of engaging with the lip hook 227 of the base of the closure. The hole in the tab improves the hooking.

[0149] Due to the presence of the aperture 250, the protrusion 262 located on the inner side of the pocket 243 having in the current example the form of a lip hook 262 with a convex surface additionally engages during the opening process with the tamper evident feature 240 thereby securing the tamper evident feature 240 within the pocket 243. The lip hook 262 can also be made of one or two barb hooks, and / or one or two tabs. The advantage of having a convex surface and / or half disc like shape is that the hook 262 slides smoothly into the aperture 250 and thereby constantly increases the engagement surface with the tamper evident feature 240 and thus the engagement force. This makes it nearly impossible for the tamper evident feature 240 to escape the engagement of the hook 227 engagement. While the planar expansion of the convexly shaped protrusion / hook 262, the lower surface of the hook 262 is completely planar similar to the lower surface of the lip hook 227 and the bottom surface of the aperture 250 for providing a good engagement surface. Due to this double hook (262, 227) engagement with the tamper evident feature 240, the tamper evident feature 240 will rupture ant the weakest points which are the bridges moulded either on top and / or on the side of the tamper evident feature 240. The tamper evident feature 240 will disengage with the inner hook 262 and the lip hook 227 and fall inside the closure into the pocket 243.

[0150] Figure 7 shows the front of the closure before opening. Figure 10 shows the front of the closure after first opening.

[0151] Figures 13 to 16 illustrate the corresponding fixing ring 225. The fixing ring 225 comprises an outer wall 226 and an inner wall 228. A slot 229 leading to the void 243 is formed between the walls 226, 228.

[0152] The inner wall 228 comprises a retaining annulus 260 which engages under a corresponding annulus 214 on the dispensing spout 216 (e.g. see Figure 17).

[0153] The inner wall 228 has an inner hook 262 which is opposite the lip hook 227. The hook 262 formed the rear of the slot 229 and the lip 227 forms the front wall of the slot 229. In this embodiment the inner wall 228 also has stabilising / guide tabs 265 which project towards the outer wall.

[0154] Figures 17 and 18 show the closure before first opening, with the top part of the tab 240 visible and the hooks 227, 262 positioned at the level of the tab hole 250.P12903PC01

[0155] As illustrated in Figure 20, when the cap 230 is opened (by pushing inwards and upwards) the tab 240 deforms, causing the rear hook 262 to enter the hole 250 and simultaneously causing the tab hook 244 to engage the outer ring front hook / lip 227. In this embodiment, therefore, the rear hook 262 is a projection which enters / engages the tab hole (the hollow) during first opening to help cause the bridges 242 to break and cause the tamper-evident tab 240 to drop into the void 243 so that the tab is no longer visible. In practice the floor 270 formed at the bottom of the tab hole 250 abuts against the rear hook 262. The tab hook 244 is a continuation of the floor 270. With the tab hole the hooking is by the inner side and the outside.

[0156] This embodiment includes a double hooking feature. The hook features come from both side and in the opposite side. One hook feature is activated at the normal opening of the lid (the two tab hooks 244 on the tab engage the front hook 227); the second is activated by pushing on the thumb recess feature (the hook 262 on the collar which goes into the tab hole 250).

[0157] In this embodiment the tab does not have a further second hook on the top. Thus, the tab fully (or nearly) disappears into the pocket and only the bridges might be visible. Also, the aperture is not visible before opening. Hence, in the unopened position the aperture is not in contact with any of the two projections (hooks) and / or the tab once dislocated from the lid is no longer visible. In this embodiment a full “hole” is provided in the tab and the hook may fully are partly penetrate into the hole; in other embodiments a recess (a blind hole) for engaging with the inner hook is provided.

[0158] Figures 21 and 22 show the tab dropped after first opening and reclosing.

[0159] As shown in Figure 25, with the tab hole the extraction force is increased by around 100%.

[0160] Figures 26 to 33 show top, bottom, left side, right side, front, rear, perspective views of a tethered, tamper-evident sportscap 310 formed in accordance with the present invention.

[0161] The closure 310 comprises a base 315 and a lid 320.

[0162] The base 315 comprises a generally cylindrical sidewall 316 and an integral dispensing spout 317.

[0163] The lid 320 comprises a fixing ring 325 and a cap 330. The cap 430 comprises a generally circular, flat top plate 431 from which depends a sidewall 432. The cap 430 is connected to the ring 425 by a hinge arrangement 435 so that it can be flipped from a closed position (Figures 26 to 33) to an open position (Figure 36). In this embodiment the hinge arrangement is a double hinge, with a first hinge 436 and a second hinge 437. The first and second hinges work independently of each other.P12903PC01

[0164] The sportscap 310 has a particular orientation, with a tamper-evident arrangement 340 provided at the “front” and a hinge arrangement 335 provided at the “back”.

[0165] The sportscap 310 also comprises a tethering arrangement 380. The tethering arrangement is positioned at the front. The tethering arrangement allows the tilting of the sportscap if the base is unscrewed.

[0166] The sportscap 310 base comprises a lower annular cap retaining part 383 (which cannot be removed from a container neck once fitted), two arms 384a, 384b, two (film) hinges 385a, 385b.

[0167] Each arm 384a, 384b has the shape of an arc of a circle and is connected to the part 386 on the one hand, and to the base on the other hand. Along the upper and lower edge of the arms there are frangible bridges 387.

[0168] Each arm 384a, 384b is connected to the retaining part 383 at a location which is angularly distant with respect to the hinges 385a, 385b to which it is connected.

[0169] The film hinges 385a, 385b comprise walls of reduced thickness, of generally quadrilateral shape (other shapes are possible, such as generally rectangular or square), connected to the base sidewall 316 on the one hand and to respective arms 384a, 384b on the other hand.

[0170] The base also comprises a tongue 391 depending axially between the two hinges 385a, 385b. The hinges 385a, 385b are symmetrical with respect to the median axis of the tongue 391.

[0171] The film hinges 385a, 385b generally have a reduced thickness and being located radially inwards compared to the arms 384a, 384b and outer side of the skirt / base. The arms 384a, 384b, while having substantially the same thickness, having an inclination section substantially based underneath the film hinges 385a, 385b towards the direction of the tongue 391. This inclined section 389 are a bit larger as the of the arms inclined toward. This ensures that the torsion forces during the opening process can be translated from the arms 384a, 384b onto the film hinges resulting in an even translation of the rotational forces and coordinated and strong bending of the film hinges 385a, 385b, which is necessary as due to the prominent and rather large tongue 391.

[0172] In addition, the tongue 391 exhibits at least twice, three, four, and / or even five times the thickness as the film hinges 385a, 385b. In a preferred embodiment the tongue 391 exhibits a substantially bigger diameter then the arms 385a, 385b and / or the lower tamper evident band and / or the side skirt of the closure / base. This has the effect that the opening of the closure the tongue 391 precisely rolls over the neck engagement treads 310 in a tight and secure mannerP12903PC01

[0173] as a repeated open and closing process and thus enables a more convenient opening for the consumer. A repeated opening and closing of the closure is guaranteed as the reinforced tongue 391 will not break or get tired due to the weight of the overall closure. In a further preferred embodiment, the tongue 391 having substantially the shape of a rectangle. In the present example the surface of the tongue 391 is substantially smooth. This is particularly beneficial if the engagement threads on the neck have a round edge which increase the smooth rotation of the tongue surface during the opening process. However, the skilled person will appreciate that on the external surface of the tongue 391 one, two, three, four, five and / or six ribs and / or 1, 2,3 and / or 4 lips could also be placed.

[0174] The base skirt 316 is provided with a helical screw thread which compliments those of a container neck.

[0175] This tongue 391 has a length such that, during tilting of the sportscap 310 (Figures 34 and 35) it bears against the container neck and exerts, via this bearing, a pulling on the arms 384a, 384b. A stable open position can be achieved (Figure 36).

[0176] In practice, the closure placed on the container by simple screwing (or the device may be added after capping). During the first unscrewing, the base progressively leaves its position which is axially close to the retaining part 383 until it reaches a position which is axially remote from the part 383, in which the helical threads of the container and of the base are out of engagement. The frangible bridges 387 rupture during this movement and the arms 384a, 384b pass from their folded position to the unfolded position shown in by pivoting.

[0177] The sportscap may be tilted by virtue of the film hinges 385a, 385b and by rolling and deformation of the tongue 391 against the neck.

[0178] The base can be removed and replaced. The tongue, arms and hinge of the device effectively allows the sportscap to be of a “double flip-top" type, with the hinging movement provided by the hinge arrangement and the tethering arrangement being opposite to each other.

[0179] Referring now to Figure 37 to 48 there is shown a closure 410 formed in according with the present invention.

[0180] The closure 410 comprises a base 415 and a lid 420.

[0181] The base 415 comprises a generally cylindrical sidewall 416 and an integral dispensing spoutP12903PC01

[0182] The lid 420 comprises a fixing ring 425 and a cap 430. The cap 430 comprises a generally circular, flat top plate 431 from which depends a sidewall 432. The cap 430 is connected to the ring 425 by a hinge arrangement 435 so that it can be flipped from a closed position (Figures 34 to 39) to an open position (Figures 40 and 41). In this embodiment the hinge arrangement is a double hinge, with a first hinge 436 and a second hinge 437.

[0183] The cap 430 includes a tamper-evident drop tab 440 which is frangibly attached to the sidewall 432 at the “front” of the closure, generally opposite the hinge arrangement 435, by frangible bridges 444.

[0184] The tab 440 includes a hook (not shown) and the fixing ring 425 includes an inward lip (not show). When the cap 430 is lifted for the first time and flipped over to the open position, the interaction of the hook and the lip means that the tab 440 cannot follow and the bridges 444 are broken. As a result the tab 440 drops down into, and is retained in, a pocket, as generally described in relation to Figures 5 to 25. The pocket is formed between the base and the fixing ring.

[0185] At the free end (opposite the top plate) of the cap sidewall 432 two (in this embodiment) depending flanges 450, 455 are provided. The flanges 450, 455 are acuate in this embodiment. Correspondingly, the fixing ring 425 is provided with two recesses 460, 465. The “front” edge 461 of the recesses is generally axial / vertical; the rear edge 462 is inclined. The flanges are correspondingly shaped, with a generally axial / vertical front edge 451 and an inclined rear edge 452. In an alternative embodiment (not shown) the recesses are provided on or by the base; in further embodiments a cap is connected directly to a base (there is no fixing ring).

[0186] The flanges / recesses help with alignment of the cap. In this embodiment the lid is formed with the cap in an open position relative to the ring. When the lid is closed the flanges enter the recesses. The corresponding inclined edges help allow the flanges to enter the recess on a closing arc. When a moulding tool is used to close the lid the flanges / recess help with alignment of the cap to the ring to provide a smooth closing operation. In addition this helps to protect the frangible bridges that connect the tab to the cap when the cap closes onto the ring; and can help protect the bridges when the lid is ejected.

[0187] In embodiments with a lid and a separate base, with a fixing ring used to connect the lid to the base, the lid and the base may be formed separately and assembled together (e.g. in an automated process) as a separate operation. In some embodiments an in-mould assembly operation may be used.P12903PC01

[0188] The closure 410 is also provided with a tethering arrangement 470 which tethers the base onto a container neck in use. The base can be removed (e.g. unscrewed) but the tether retains the closure so that it can be recycle together with a container.

[0189] Figures 49 to 52 show a closure 510 formed according to a further embodiment.

[0190] In this embodiment the tongue 591 has an extension 592 that extends radially outwards. This enables the outer surface of the tongue to precisely roll over the threaded interfaces (ring 1 and ring 2) of the bottle neck in a controlled manner, which provides to the costumer a very smooth opening experience. Moreover, the thickness of the tongue 591 ensures that no interference of the other parts of the hinge and / or closure engages with the neck and thus all weight of the closure is being translated upon the opening onto the tongue 591. This enables a very controlled and quick opening procedure. Furthermore, the tongue 591 also has a thickness which is substantially thicker than the hinges 585a and 585b, preferably two, three, four or even five times, the lower edge of the tongue 591 is locked under another threaded interface (second “ring”) of the neck and locks the tongue 591 in this position. This does not mean that a lower edge of the tongue 591 engages with the “second” ring of the neck directly and / or in a tight manner as there will be still a small space between the second ring and the lower edge of the tongue, but in case of movement of the closure by the consumer, it will be shifted against the ring and thus blocks any further movement.

[0191] The surface of the tongue 591 can obviously have some further modifications. As the skilled person will appreciate adding further ribs onto the surface increase the width of the tongue 591 and / or lips are possible. One or, two, three, four and / or five etc. lips will have the advantage of adding a further engagement means to the tongue 591 to secure it to the neck. Such a a snap back engagement, wherein after the rolling process of the tongue 591 is complete the lip to be places on the upper part of the tongue 591 opposite of the lower edge of the tongue 591 can engage and snap underneath the lower ring over which the tongue was rolling over to increase the stable open position. Of course, having two lips could be used to engage the closure on the hight where the tongue 591 would engage with the threaded interface from both sides up and down to lock like a zipper the lower threaded interface / ring.

[0192] Figures 53 to 56 show a tetherable closure 610 formed according to a further embodiment.

[0193] The closure 610 comprises a cap part 695 and a lower retaining ring 680 (which forms part of a tethering arrangement) for retaining the closure on the neck of a container (not shown). In this embodiment the closure is formed as a single piece (e.g. by injection moulding plastics material).P12903PC01

[0194] The cap part 695 comprises a generally cylindrical side skirt 696 that depends from a top plate 697.

[0195] A tongue 691 depends from the cap skirt 696 towards the retaining ring 680. In other embodiments (not shown) a tongue is not provided.

[0196] A first arm 684a and a second arm 684b is provided. The first arm 684a and the second arm 684b each comprise a first portion 688 and a second 689 portion. The first portion and the second portion are positioned at an angle in relation to each other when the closure device is in a fully closed position. The first portions of each arm lie in a plane substantially parallel to the plane X-X of the retaining part, while the second portions extend at an angle from that plane towards the skirt.

[0197] The inclined portion 689 of each arm is connected to the cap skirt 696 by a hinge 685a, 685b. The arms and the hinges allow the cap part to be removed from the neck of the container while remaining attached to the retaining part, and when the cap part is actuated to a fully open position the first arm and the second arm cause the tongue to exert a force against the neck of the container for retaining the cap body in an open position.

[0198] Each arm 684a, 684b has the shape of an arc of a circle. Along the upper and lower edge of the arms there are frangible bridges 687. Frangible bridges 681 also connect the free end of the tongue to the retaining ring.

[0199] Each arm 684a, 684b is connected to the retaining ring 680 at a location which is angularly distant with respect to the hinges 685a, 685b.

[0200] The hinges 685a, 685b comprise walls of reduced thickness, of generally quadrilateral shape (other shapes are possible, such as generally rectangular or square). The flexibility allows the tilting of the cap in use by means of the tethering arrangement if the base is unscrewed. As shown in the Figures 55 to 68 the opening mechanism of the tethered hinge is shown.

[0201] In Figures 55 to 58 the base is unscrewed. The retaining ring 680 is retained beneath the container neck bead 679 by a retention flap 682.

[0202] Figures 59 to 68 show progressively the base 615 rotating. In Figures 61 and 62 the tongue 691 has engaged the neck and with continued rotation the tongue rolls against the neck until a stable docking position is reached at approximately 160 degrees.

[0203] Hence, while the opening angle of tethered hinge allows for 100, 120, 130, 140, 150 and preferably 160° as depicted in the Figures, the overall closure will engage with the shoulder ofP12903PC01

[0204] the bottle and thus enables a stable open position, and the closure cannot move further in any direction.

[0205] The hinges 685a, 685b are symmetrical with respect to the median axis of the tongue 691.

[0206] The retaining ring 680 comprises a notch 698 located beneath the tongue. This enables the tongue to rotate freely around its axis without interference of the lower TE and 680. The ring 680 also comprises an inclined portion 699a, 699b at either side of the notch, and generally following (parallel to) the incline of each inclined arm portion 689.

[0207] The inclined arm portions 689 are substantially longer than the film hinges 685a and 685b and are located underneath the film hinges 685a and 685b. In a further embodiment, the arms are substantially straight but either exhibit a material thickening underneath the film hinges 685a and 685b and / or only the lower end facing towards the tamper evident band and / or any other reinforcement features which an improved translation of the opening / torsion force of the arms onto the film hinges 685a and 685b The inclined arm portions 689 allow a more focused translation of rotational forces onto the lower end of the film hinges 685a and 685b and ensure a coordinated and strong bending of the film hinges 685a and 685b. This effect is even enhanced by the location of the film hinges 685a and 685b being located radially inwards compared to the tongue 691.

[0208] This tethering arrangement could be used for different types of closures, including caps for carbonated beverages and / or flat water and / or food closures. In other words, for one-piece, two-piece and three-piece closures, sports closures and the like.

[0209] Although illustrative embodiments of the invention have been disclosed in detail herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is understood that the invention is not limited to the precise embodiments shown and that various changes and modifications can be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

P12903PC01CLAIMS1. A tamper-evident closure for a container, the closure comprises a base and a lid, the lid is movable between a closed position and an open position, the closure comprises a tamper-evident member which moves upon first opening of the lid to indicate the closure has been opened, the tamper-evident member comprises a hollow and the closure further comprises a projection which in the closed position is located out of the hollow and which can engage the hollow during first opening to cause, or help cause, the tamper-evident member to move.

2. A closure according to claim 1, in which the hollow is an aperture.

3. A closure according to claim 1 or claim 2, in which the closure comprises projections to engage the member from both front and rear sides.

4. A closure according to any preceding claim, in which the tamper-evident member further comprises one or more hook portions.

5. A closure according to any preceding claim, in which the tamper-evident member is a tab or the like.

6. A closure according to any preceding claim, in which the tamper-evident member is initially frangibly connected to the closure and when the lid is opened it drops.

7. A closure according to any preceding claim, in which in the unopened position at least part of the tamper-evident member is visible and in which upon first opening the tamper-evident member moves so as to be at least partly hidden from view.

8. A closure according to any preceding claim, in which the lid comprises a cap and a fixing ring and the lid cap moves between the closed and open positions.

9. A closure according to claim 8, in which the tamper evident member is located on the cap and the fixing ring at least partly defines a void, and wherein the tamper evident member moves at least partly into the void upon first opening of the closure.

10. A closure according to claim 9, in which the tamper evident member is frangibly connected to the cap and said frangible connections are breakable upon first opening of the closure.

11. A closure according to any preceding claim, comprising a dispensing spout.P12903PC0112. A closure according to claim 11 , in which the spout is formed integrally with the base.

13. A closure according to any preceding claim, in which the closure further comprises a retaining ring arranged under the base for retaining the closure on the container.

14. A closure according to claim 13, in which the closure comprises a tethering arrangement which permits axial separation of the base from the ring and allows the base to be removed from the container whilst remaining tethered to the ring.

15. A closure according to claim 14, in which the tethering arrangement comprises first and second arms which are non-frangibly connected to the base at one end and non-frangibly connected to the ring at the other end.

16. A closure according to any preceding claim, in which the closure comprises a hinge arrangement so that the lid is movable between the closed and open positions.

17. A closure according to claim 16 when dependent on claim 15 or claim 16, in which the tethering arrangement is provided generally diametrically opposite the hinge arrangement.

18. A closure according to any preceding claim and configured as a flip-top sports closure.

19. A flip top sports closure for a container, comprising a base and a lid, the closure comprises a hinge arrangement so that the lid is movable between a closed and an open position with respect to the base, the closure further comprises a retaining ring arranged under the base for retaining the closure on the container.

20. A closure according to claim 19, in which the closure comprises a tethering arrangement which permits axial separation of the base from the ring and allows the base to be removed from the container whilst remaining tethered to the ring.

21. A closure according to claim 20, in which the tethering arrangement comprises first and second arms which are non-frangibly connected to the base at one end and non-frangibly connected to the ring at the other end.

22. A closure according to claim 20 or claim 21, in which the tethering arrangement is provided generally diametrically opposite the hinge arrangement.

23. A closure according to any of claims 20 to 22, in which the tethering arrangement comprises two arms and a tongue between the arms for providing a stable open position of theP12903PC01lid, the arms are joined to the base by film hinges, the circumferential extent of the tongue is greater than the sum of the circumferential extents of the hinges.

24. A closure according to any of claims 19 to 23, further comprising tamper-evident means.

25. A closure according to any preceding claim in combination with a container.

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