Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
1
"Closure with push-pull resealable cap"
Technical Field
The present invention relates to a closure for a container. More
particularly. the invention relates to a resealable push-pull type closure
that
provides resealable access to the contents of a container.
Background Art
Resealable push-pull closures (or as they are sometimes called, "sports
closures") allow a person to pour out a container's contents without the need
to fully remove the closure from the container.
Such closures typically comprise a main cap that seals the container in
the manner of normal closures as known in the art. The top surface of the
ITlalll Cap llol'lllally haS all OpeIlIIlg lIl fltlld COII1111LIIl1Cat10Il
~Nlth the bore of a
spout. The spout in turn has a plug IIleIllber that partially blocks the bore.
To seal the container. a top cap. which also has an aperture. is mounted to
the spout. The top cap is normally movable between at least a first position
in which its aperture is sealed by the plug member so sealing the container
and a SBCOIld pOSItIOIl Ill WhICh the aperture is not sealed by the plug
member so allowing the COIltalIler'S cOIlteIltS to exit from the container
around the plug IIleITlber alld through the aperture of the top cap.
The top cap is generally mounted to the spout in a manner such that is
readily movable between the first and second positions by only one hand or
even by the teeth. This traditionally has made the closure popular with
sportspersons, such as runners or cyclists, who may wish to consume a
product but who may only have one hand free whilst participating in their
sport.
The use of such a closure is. however, not restricted only to containers
for sports drinks and they have found application in an ever wider range of
container types and products in general use by consumers. For example, the
closures have been used to seal containers containing beverages marketed at
children. The closures are often easier to unseal than the traditional
requirement of fully unscrewing a closure from the container. The smaller
opening in the top cap also restricts the rate of flow of the beverage from
the
container making it easier for a child to consume the beverage without mess.
Containers for carbonated beverages must be sealed by closures that
can withstand the increase in pressure created within the container by the
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
2
carbonation of the beverage. The closures must also retain a sufficient
degree of sealing to prevent loss of gas from the container in the time
between filling of the container and eventual COIIStIIIIptI0I1 Of the beverage
by
the COIIStIlIler.
United States Patent specification 5.423,444 discloses a plastic closure
for a container having an externally screw threaded neck that can be used for
carbonated beverages.
The closure in US 5,423.444 has a top portion and an internally
threaded skirt. An annular sealing rib also projects downwardly from the
i0 underside of the top portion. The rib includes a first substantially
cylindrical
portion contiguous with the underside of the top portion and lying adjacent
to or abutting with the skirt, and a second, frusto-conical, portion
contiguous
with the end of the first portion distal to the underside of the top portion
and
extending radially inwardly to a circular free edge. During threaded
attachment of the closure with the neck, the second. frusto-conical, portion
is
engaged by a free end of the neck and folded back towards and preferably
against the first portion of the rib to form a gas tight seal between at least
the
outer surface of the neck of the container and the closure.
United States Patent specification 5.609,263 discloses a closure having
a sealing rib in which there is at the free end of the second portion of the
rib
a thick seal ring of substantially circular cross-sectional shape. The rib and
the seal ring are dlnIeIISI0IIed to engage the free end of the neck when the
closure is threaded onto the neck such that when the neck is fully screwed
into the closure its free end crushes the seal ring directly against the
inside
surface of the top portion of the closure.
Australian Patent Application No 80944/98 discloses still further
variants of the closure described in US 5.423,444. In one variant. the sealing
rib of the closure has a third portion connected to the second portion at or
adjacent its circular edge and extending generally in a direction away from
the top portion. The third portion is substantially no thicker than the second
portion and has a length longer than its thickness. On attachment of this
closure to a container, the third portion is positioned between the neck of
the
container and the underside of the top portion of the closure.
The present invention is directed to a resealable push-pull closure that
is suitable for, but not limited to. sealing containers for carbonated
beverages.
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
3
Disclosure of the Invention
According to a first aspect. the present invention relates to a closure
suitable for InollIltlllg onto a container, the container having an end
portion
defining a container opening, the closure including:
a Illalll ClOStlre 11aV1Ilg:
a top portion having an aperture therethrough;
a skirt portion depending downwardly from the top portion and
adapted to attach to the container end portion;
a sealing means adapted. on attachment of the main closure to a
container. to form a seal with the end portion of the container;
a spout extending upwardly from the top portion. the spout
defining a bore that is in fluid communication with the aperture in the top
portion: and
a plug member having a radially outer surface and mounted to the
spout and extending at least partially across the bore; and
a top cap mounted to the spout, the top cap having an upper portion
that has an inner surface defining all OpeIllIlg through the upper portion,
the
OpeIllllg belIlg in fluid COIIlIIlunlcatlOll ~Nltll the bore of the spout, the
top cap
being relatively movable between a first position where the plug member is
at least partially within the opening and at least a second position where the
plug member is withdrawn from the opening;
wherein, prior to the plug member firstly entering the opening in the
upper portion of the top cap. an annular sealing rib extends inwardly from
the upper portion at least partially across the opening to a free edge, the
inner surface of the opening having an internal diameter relative to the
external diameter of the plug member such that when the plug member
firstly enters the opening, at least a portion of the sealing rib is engaged
by
the plug member and folded back towards the inner surface of the opening to
form a seal between at least the outer surface of the plug member and the top
3o cap.
According to a second aspect, the present invention comprises a top
cap for mounting to a spout of a main closure, the spout defining a bore and
having a plug member extending at least partially across the bore, the top cap
having an upper portion that has an inner surface defining an opening
through the upper portion, and, prior to the mounting of the top cap to the
spout. an annular sealing rib that extends inwardly from the upper portion at
CA 02370963 2001-10-19
WO 00/64774 PCT/AU00/00353
4
least partially across the opening to a free edge, the inner surface of the
opening having an internal diameter relative to the external diameter of the
plug member such that when the plug lTleIIlber firstly enters the opening on
1110L1I1t1Ilg of the top cap to the spout. at least a portion of the sealing
rib is
engaged by the plug member and folded back towards the inner surface of the
opening to form a seal between at least an outer surface of the plug member
and the top cap.
Once the sealing rib of the top cap has been folded back towards the
inner surface as the plug member firstly enters the opening in the upper
1o portion, the sealing rib will normally and preferably substantially retain
this
position during any subsequent movement of the top cap between its first
position and second position.
In one embodiment. the inner surface of the opening in the upper
portion of the top cap is substantially cylindrical and extends from an upper
side to an underside of the upper portion. In a preferred embodiment, the
rib, prior to the plug member firstly entering the opening in the upper
portion
of the top cap, has at least a frusto-conical portion extending radially
inwardly to a circular free edge. In this embodiment, the frusto-conical
portion will preferably be engaged by the plug member and folded back
2o towards the inner surface when the plug member at least firstly enters the
opening.
The sealing rib preferably extends inwardly from the inner surface of
the upper portion of the top cap. The sealing rib even more preferably
extends inwardly from a position on the inner surface adjacent the underside
of the upper portion. Where the rib includes or comprises a frusto-conical
portion, the frusto-conical portion preferably does not extend below the
underside of the upper portion. It will be appreciated that the frusto-conical
portion could extend downwardly as far as or even below the underside of
the upper portion in other embodiments. The thickness of the annular
sealing rib can be substantially constant along its length from the inner
surface to its free edge. It will be appreciated that in another embodiment,
the thickness of the sealing rib could vary along its length. For example, the
thickness of the rib could taper in thickness towards its free edge.
Preferably, when the plug member at least firstly enters the opening in
the upper portion of the top cap, the sealing rib will be folded back against
the inner surface of the upper portion. This will cause the sealing rib to
bear
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
more strongly against at least the outside surface of the plug member and so
form a better seal «~ith at least the outside surface of the plug member.
Ill Olle eIIlbOdllllellt. there can be at the line of meeting of the lllller
surface of the upper portion of the top cap and the sealing rib. a weakened
5 zone or annular region of weakness to assist even deformation of the rib
relative to the inner surface when the plug member firstly enters the opening.
In a further embodiment, the rib can include an additional portion
connected to the inwardly extending portion at or adjacent the free edge and
extending generally in a direction awTay from the upper portion to an end
distal the upper portion. Where the sealing rib includes this additional
portion. it preferably seals with the plug member from a position on the outer
surface of the plug member to at least onto the apex of a free end of the plug
member when the plug member at least firstly enters the opening in the
upper portion of the top cap.
i5 The additional portion of the sealing rib is preferably contiguous with
the circular free edge of the inwardly extending portion, though it may be
spaced slightly radially outwardly from it. The additional portion is
preferably substantially no thicker than the inwardly extending portion and
further preferably has a length longer than its thickness. The additional
portion also preferably projects generally axially away from the upper portion
of the top cap to its distal end. The additional portion is preferably
substantially cylindrical and can have both a cylindrical inner surface and a
cylindrical outer surface. The additional portion can join the inwardly
extending portion in an angular disjunction or it may join it in a smooth
angular transition from the generally radially inward direction of the
inwardly extending portion to a generally axial direction.
The top cap preferably has a substantially cylindrical skirt portion
depending downwardly from its upper portion. The skirt portion preferably
extends downwardly at or adjacent the outer edge of the upper portion. An
outside surface of the skirt portion adjacent the upper portion can have an
annular protrusion extending radially outwardly from the outside surface.
The top cap preferably has a secondary sealing member adapted to seal
with the spout. IIl Olle eITlbOdlIIleIlt, the secondary sealing member can
comprise an annular sealing liner positioned under the upper portion and
adjacent the skirt portion of the top cap. Such a sealing liner would be
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
6
sealable with a free end of the spout when the top cap was mounted to the
spout.
In a more preferred embodiment, the top cap is linerless, with the
secondary sealing member comprising an annular sealing rib adapted to seal
with the spout.
The annular sealing rib comprising the secondary sealing member can
project downwardly from an underside of the upper portion and include a
first portion which is contiguous ~n,~ith the upper portion and has an inner
surface, which inner surface lies radially inwardly of the skirt portion, and
at
i0 least a second. frusto-conical. portion contiguous with the first portion
and
separated from the upper portion by the inner surface of the first portion,
the
second portion extending radially inwardly and downwardly to a circular
edge. The inner surface of the first portion preferably has an internal
diameter relative to the external diameter of the spout to which the top cap
is
to be attached such that during attachment of the top cap with the spout, the
sealing rib will be engaged by the spout so folding the second portion
towards at least the inner surface of the first portion of the rib to form a
seal
between at least an outer surface of the spout and the top cap.
In this embodiment, the seal can be formed only with the outer surface
of the spout. In other embodiments, the seal may extend from the outer
surface at least onto the outside radius of the spout. In a still further
embodiment, the seal may extend from the outer surface, around the outside
radius of the spout and onto the free end of the spout.
The inner surface of the first portion of the secondary sealing rib on
the top cap is preferably substantially cylindrical. The first portion of the
secondary sealing rib can comprise a thickening of the skirt portion in the
region adjacent its connection to the upper portion. By comprising such a
thickening, the root of the second portion of the secondary sealing rib is
moved inwardly of the part of the skirt portion having the screw thread or
other attachment means.
In another embodiment, the first portion of the secondary sealing rib
on the top cap is formed radially inwardly of the skirt portion with an
annular space therebetween. In a still further embodiment, the first portion
of the secondary sealing rib can be in abutment with the skirt portion.
In yet a further embodiment, the first portion of the secondary sealing
rib can have a thickness that increases as it extends in a direction away from
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
7
the upper portion of the top cap. The thickness of the first portion can
increase at a uniform rate along the length of the first portion away from the
upper portion, however, it could do so in a non-uniform manner. The
increase in the thickness of the first portion means that the inside surface
and. where there is one. the outside surface, of the first portion will each
not
necessarily be exactly cylindrical. Thev may respectively taper slightly
inwardly and outwardly relative to the axis of the top cap in a direction away
from the upper portion of the top cap.
The inner surface of the first portion serves to form an abutment
1o towards which the second portion is folded during attachment of the top cap
with the spout. Preferably, during attachment, the second portion will be
folded back against the first portion such that it bears against the inner
surface of the first pOrt10I1.
There also can be at the line of meeting of the first and second portions
s5 of the secondary sealing rib of the top cap. a weakened zone or annular
region of weakness to assist even deformation of the second portion relative
to the first as the top cap is attached to the spout as is described in
Australian
patent specification 637706, the contents whereof are incorporated herein by
reference.
20 IIl aIlOther eITlbOdlInellt, prior to the top cap being firstly mounted to
the spout, the secondary annular sealing rib extends radially inwardly from
an inside surface of the skirt portion of the top cap to a free edge. When the
top cap is firstly mounted to the spout, at least a portion of the secondary
rib
is preferably engaged by at least the spout wall and folded back towards an
25 inside surface of the skirt portion to form a secondary seal between at
least
the outer surface of the spout and the skirt portion of the top cap.
Once the secondary sealing rib has been folded back towards the inside
surface of the skirt portion when the top cap is mounted to the spout, the
secondary rib will preferably normally substantially retain this position
30 during any subsequent movement of the top cap between its first position
and second position. It is further preferred. that the secondary rib retains a
seal with the outer surface of the spout when the top cap is in the first
position, when in at least the second position and when being relatively
moved between the first and at least second positions.
35 In one embodiment, the inside surface of the skirt portion of the top
cap is substantially cylindrical. In a preferred embodiment, the secondary
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
8
sealing member comprises an annular sealing rib including at least a frusto-
COI11Ca1 pOrtloll eXtelldlllg fr0111 all lllller surface of the skirt portion
radially
inwardly and downwardly to a circular edge. the frusto-conical portion being
positioned such that during attachment of the top cap with the spout, the
sealing rib will be engaged by the spout so folding the frusto-conical portion
towards at least the inner surface of the skirt portion of the spout to form a
seal between the spout and the top cap.
An annular bead can be disposed on the inside surface of the skirt
portion of the top cap below the secondary sealing rib.
The thickness of the secondar~~ sealing rib can be substantially
constant along its length from the inside surface of the skirt portion to its
free
edge. It will be appreciated that in another embodiment, the thickness of the
secondary sealing rib could vary along its length. For example, the thickness
of the secondary rib could taper in thickness towards its free edge.
Where the secondary sealing rib is frusto-conical and extends inwardly
from the inner surface of the skirt portion, the rib can be distal the
underside
of the upper portion of the top cap. In a further embodiment, the secondary
sealing rib is positioned about midway between the underside of the upper
portion and a free end of the skirt portion.
The inside surface of the skirt portion preferably has attachment
means complementary to attachment means on an external surface of the
spout. IIl Olle eIIlbOdlInellt, the complementary attachment means can
comprise a thread adapted to engage a corresponding thread on the external
surface of the spout. Where the attachment means comprises a thread, a turn
of the top cap in one direction will preferably move the top cap from the
first
position to at least the second position and a turn in an opposite direction
will move the top cap from the second position to at least the first position.
In one embodiment, the thread on the inside surface of the skirt
portion of the top cap comprises two or more thread segments. Each of the
thread segments can be formed with two substantially planar and parallel
end surfaces that are inclined to the axis of the top cap.
In one embodiment. the thread on the external surface of the spout is a
recessed thread adapted to receive the complementary thread of the top cap.
Where the thread on the inside surface of the skirt portion comprises a
number of thread segments. the recessed thread on the spout is preferably
comprised of an equal number of recesses spaced to receive the thread
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
9
segments when the top cap IS IIlollIlted to the spout. Each recess preferably
includes an upwardly directed ramp member so located that on rotation of
the top cap relative to the spout. the thread segments of the skirt portion
enter the ramp member SO I110v1I1g the top cap relatively upwardly on the
spout. The ramp member is preferably formed at an angle between 10 and 50
degrees, more preferably about 30 degrees. relative to a notional radial plane
normal to the longitudinal axis of the spout. When the top cap is firstly
mounted to the spout. the top cap can be preferably pushed onto the spout
such that the thread of the top cap engages within the recessed thread on the
external surface of the spout.
The top cap is preferably provided with a tamper evident band adapted
to provide an indication of movement or attempted movement of the top cap
from its first position at least towards its second position relative to the
spout. The tamper evident band can extend from the skirt portion of the top
cap. and preferably from the free edge of the skirt, by connection through a
frallglble COIlIleCt10I1, such as a plurality of frangible bridges.
The band can comprise a generally cylindrical body portion and an
annular rib extending inwardly of the body portion and adapted to provide a
lip having an inner free edge. When the top cap is firstly mounted to the
spout, the lip engages under a retaining flange extending outwardly from the
spout below the attachment means on the spout. The annular rib is
preferably segmented, with the combined length of the segmented ribs being
preferably equal to at least 50% of the internal circumference of the band.
Each of the rib segments can be separated by a gap and be equally spaced
about the body portion.
Each of the rib segments can each have an upper surface facing
generally towards the upper portion of the top cap and an underside facing
generally away from the upper portion. The underside can slope inwardly
and upwardly from a free end of the body portion. The upper surface of each
rib segment extending inwardly of the body portion can be a compound two-
part surface comprising a first surface contiguous with the body portion of
the band, which surface slopes inwardly and downwardly away from the
upper portion, and a second surface which extends radially inwardly from
the inner terminus of the first surface and has a slope angle substantially
normal to the skirt portion of the top cap.
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
Vl~hen the top cap is firstly mounted to the spout, the rib on the tamper
evident band preferably rides over the retaining flange on the spout and
locates therebeneath without damage to the frangible connection. When the
top cap 1S InoVed frOITl 1tS first position towards at least its second
position,
5 the rib preferably engages with and is held under the retaining flange
thereby
causing breakage of the fraIlglble COI111eCt10I1.
In a preferred embodiment, the outer wall of the spout has a
substantially cylindrical outer surface extending from a free end to the
retaining flange. The outer wall of the spout can also have a cylindrical
outer
1o surface between the retaining flange and the top portion of the main
closure.
The external diameter of the outer wall between the flange and the top
portion of the main closure can be greater than that of the outer wall of the
spout extending downwardly from the free end to the flange. The outer wall
can also have a substantially cylindrical inner surface defining a cylindrical
bore therethrough. The bore is preferably centrally located within the spout.
The spout is also preferably centrally located in the top portion of the main
closure. If required, the external diameter of a region of the spout wall
adjacent its free end can be stepped inwardly. This inwardly stepped region
can be used when the secondary sealing member comprises an annular
sealing rib projecting downwardly from an underside of the upper portion of
the top cap.
The plug member is preferably centrally located in the bore of the
spout, with an annular aperture between the plug member and the spout wall
defining the bore. The annular aperture is preferably spanned by a plurality
of bridge members that extend radially lIlWaTdly frOITl the spout wall to
support the plug member. In one embodiment, three equally spaced bridge
members span the annular aperture to the plug member. Each bridge
member in addition to extending inwardly can extend upwardly to the plug
member.
The plug member preferably comprises a tube having a substantially
cylindrical outer surface that is sealed at one end. The outer surface
preferably extends upwardly beyond the extent of the free end of the spout
wall such that the sealed end is distal the free end of the spout.
In one embodiment of the first aspect, the sealing means of the main
closure can comprise an annular sealing liner positioned under the top
portion and adjacent the skirt portion of the main closure.
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
11
In a more preferred eIIlbOd1I11eIlt, the IIlalIl clOSltre 1S linerless, with
the
sealing 111ea11S COI11pr1Slllg all aIlIlular sealing rib adapted to seal ~~ith
the end
portion of the container. The annular sealing rib of the main closure
preferably projects downwardl~- from an underside of the top portion of the
main closure and includes a first portion which is contiguous with the top
portion and has an inner surface. ~~hich inner surface lies radially inwardly
of the skirt portion. and at least a second. frusto-conical, portion
contiguous
with the first portion and separated from the top portion by the inner surface
of the first portion, the second portion extending radially inwardly to a
circular edge. The inner surface of the first portion preferably has an
internal
diameter relative to the external diameter of the end portion of the container
to which the main closure is to be attached such that during attachment of
the main closure with the end portion of the container, the sealing rib will
be
engaged by the end portion of the container so folding the second portion at
least towards the inner surface of the first portion of the rib to form a seal
between at least an outer surface of the end portion of the container and the
main closure.
The end portion of the container to be sealed by the present invention
preferably has a free end, an outside, preferably cylindrical, surface and an
inside, preferably cylindrical. surface. the inside surface defining a bore.
One of or both of the joins bet~nreen the free end and the inside surface and
between the free end and the outside surface can be smoothly curved and
define respectively what are hereinafter called the inner and outer sealing
radii of the end portion of the container.
The main closure is preferably provided with a screw thread on an
inside surface of its skirt portion adapted to engage with a corresponding
thread on an external surface of the end portion of the container. It is,
however, possible for the container and the main closure to be formed with
other complementary attachment means. Such an arrangement could, for
instance, comprise snap-on attachment means having a rib on the inside
surface of the main closure and a corresponding groove on the outside
surface of the end portion of the container.
The inner surface of the first portion of the sealing rib on the main
closure is preferably substantially cylindrical. The first portion of the rib
can
comprise a thickening of the skirt portion in the region adjacent its
connection to the top portion. By comprising such a thickening, the root of
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
12
the second portion of the rib is moved inwardly of the part of the skirt
portion having the screw thread or other attachment means.
Ill allOther elubOdlIIleIlt, the first portion of the sealing rib on the main
closure is formed radiallv inwardly of the skirt portion with an annular space
therebetween. In a still further en lbodiment. the first portion of the
sealing
rib can be in abutment with the skirt portion.
In yet a further embodiment. the first portion of the rib can have a
thickness that increases as it extends in a direction away from the top
portion
of the main closure. This thickening of the first portion serves to increase
the force of the pressure of the rib against the outside surface of the end
p01't1011 Of the COIltalller O11 attaChIlleIlt Of the lllalll C10SU1'e t0 the
end
portion. The thickness of the first portion can increase at a uniform rate
along the length of the first portion away from the top portion, however, it
could do so in a non-uniform manner. The increase in the thickness of the
first portion means that the inside surface and, where there is one, the
outside surface. of the first portion will each not necessarily be exactly
cylindrical. They may respectively taper slightly inwardly and outwardly
relative to the axis of the main closure in a direction away from the top
portion of the main closure.
The inner surface of the first portion serves to form an abutment
towards which the second portion is folded during attachment of the main
closure with the end portion of a container. Preferably, during attachment,
the second portion will be folded back against the first portion such that it
bears against the inner surface of the first portion. This will cause the
second portion to bear more strongly against at least the outside surface of
the end portion of the container and so form a better seal with at least the
outside surface of the end portion.
In a further embodiment, the second portion of the sealing rib of the
main closure can have a substantially constant thickness. In another
embodiment, the second portion can taper in thickness towards its free edge.
In a still further embodiment, the sealing rib of the main closure can
include a third portion connected to the second portion at or adjacent the
circular edge of the second portion and extending generally in a direction
away from the top portion. The third portion is preferably substantially no
thicker than the second portion and further preferably has a length longer
than its thickness. The third portion of the sealing rib is preferably
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
13
contiguous with the circular edge of the second portion, though it may be
spaced slightly radially outwardly from it. The third portion also preferably
projects generally axially away from the top portion of the main closure to
its
distal end. The third portion is preferably substantially cylindrical and can
have both a cylindrical inner surface and a cylindrical outer surface. The
third portion can JOIIl the SeCOIld pOrt10I1 lIl all allgtllar dlSJtlI1Ct1011
Or It may
join it 111 a SITlOOth angular trallsltl0ll from the generally radially inward
direction of the second portion to a generally axial direction. In this
elnbOdlIIleIlt, on attachment of the main closure to the end portion of the
1o container, the third portion preferably seals with the end portion from a
position on the outside surface of the end portion to at least the apex of the
free end of the end portion.
The closure according to the present invention may be made of any
suitable synthetic plastics material, however it is preferred that it is
formed
from a suitable grade of polyethylene or polypropylene. The top cap may be
formed from a different plastics material to that of the remainder of the
closure. The sealing rib of the main closure is preferably formed integrally
with its top portion, however, it can be envisaged in another embodiment
that at least the sealing rib is formed separately from the main closure and
2o inserted therein.
It will be apparent to persons skilled in the art that numerous
modifications may be made to the main closure described in this
specification without departing from the scope of the invention as earlier
defined. The main closure may, for instance. be provided w=ith a tamper
evident band adapted to provide an indication of removal or attempted
removal of the main closure from a container. The tamper evident band can
extend from the skirt portion by connection through a frangible connection,
such as a plurality of frangible bridges. Each bridge can be angled relative
to
the axis of the closure. The band can have a generally cylindrical body
portion and a segmented rib extending inwardly of the body portion and
adapted to provide a lip having an inner free edge to engage under a retaining
flange extending outwardly from the end portion of the container. In one
embodiment. below each rib segment and extending inwardly of the body
portion there can be a radially inward projection that extends from proximate
the free end of the band to the rib segments. In a preferred embodiment,
each rib segment has a corresponding radially inward projection. In this
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
14
eIllbOdlIIleIlt, each radially lllWard pl'OJeCt10I1 C3I1 abut its
corresponding rib
segment preferably about midway along each segment.
As is described in Australian patent specifications 668197, the
contents whereof are incorporated herein by reference. the combined length
of the segmented ribs on the band can be equal to at least 50% of the internal
circumference of the band. Each of the rib segments can be equally spaced
about the internal circumference of the band and separated from each other
by a gap. Each of the rib segments can each have an upper surface facing
generally towards the top portion of the main closure and an underside
facing generally away from the top portion. with the inner surface of the
band having a plurality of radially inward projections extending from above
the free edge of the band and not extending beyond the inner free edge of the
lip.
As is described in Australian patent specification 683598, the contents
whereof are incorporated herein by reference, the upper surface of each rib
segment extending inwardly of the body portion can comprise compound
two-part surface having a first surface contiguous with the body portion of
the band, which surface slopes inw ardly and downwardly away from the top
portion. and a second surface which extends radially inwardly from the inner
terminus of the first surface and has a slope angle substantially normal to
the
skirt portion of the closure.
As is described in US 5,676.269, the contents whereof are incorporated
herein by reference, the tamper evident band can be joined to the skirt
portion of the main closure by a plurality of frangible bridges and at least
one
non-frangible bridge. The band can further have a substantially L-shaped
slot extending through the side wall of the band, the horizontal leg of which
terminates directly adjacent to or under the non-frangible bridge, and a
weakened frangible region extending from the terminating end of the
horizontal leg axially downwardly to the bottom of the band distal the
3o frangible bridges.
Where the main closure has a screw thread on the inner surface of its
skirt portion, the thread can be continuous or formed of a series of thread
segments. If formed from a series of thread segments, the thread segments
can be arranged, starting from a first thread segment distal to the top, along
a
helical thread locus, as is described in Australian patent specification
668197. Each of the thread segments except the first can be formed with two
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
substantially planar end surfaces that are inclined to the axis of the closure
and face away from the top of the closure. that is they face in the direction
that a mould core used to mould the closure was withdrawn. In this
specification. the term "substantially planar surface" is used to describe a
5 surface that is nearly actually planar or that is curved provided that it
all
faces in the defined direction. The first of the thread segments is preferably
pointed at its end distal to its one adjacent thread segment to assist in
mating
the thread on the main closure with a complementary thread on the neck of a
container.
1o The substantially planar ends of the thread segments can also be
1I1C11Iled t0 a IlOtlOIlal radial plane of the main closure extending from the
longitudinal axis of the main closure to the end of the respective thread
segment such that the ends are inclined to the cylindrical skirt by an angle
that is less than the angle that the respective notional plane makes with that
15 skirt.
To assist in the venting of gas that may be present in the container, the
spaces between the thread segments in adjacent turns of the thread can be
aligned. A groove may also be provided on the inside surface of the skirt of
the main closure extending longitudinally thereof through the aligned spaces.
There also can be at the line of meeting of the first and second portions
of the sealing rib of the main closure, a weakened zone or annular region of
weakness to assist even deformation of the second portion relative to the
first
as the main closure is attached to a container as is described in Australian
patent specification 637706, the contents whereof are incorporated herein by
reference.
Where the main closure has an annular sealing rib comprising a first
portion and at least a second. frusto-conical, portion, the underside of the
top
portion of the main closure can also have an engagement means comprising a
continuous or segmented annular ridge positioned radially inward of the
3o sealing rib. The upper side of the second portion of the rib may also be
formed with a complementary engagement means comprising a continuous
or segmented annular ridge as is described in US 5,782,369, the contents
whereof are incorporated herein by reference. On attachment of the main
closure with the end portion, the engagement means on the second portion
engage with the underside of the top portion. Where the underside of the top
portion has the complementary engagement means, the respective
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
16
COIIIpIeIIleIltary eIlgageIIleIlt means preferably can be adapted to interlock
as
the main closure is attached to the container thereby holding the sealing rib
touching the underside of the top portion stationary and causing the second
portion of the sealing rib to be disposed over a still greater area of the
underside of the top portion as well as the outside surface of the end
portion.
In a further aspect, the present invention comprises a container sealed
by a closure as defined herein.
In yet a further aspect. the present invention comprises a method of
sealing a container comprising the step of mounting a closure according to
the first aspect of the invention to the neck of the container.
In still yet a further aspect. the present invention comprises a mould
for fOTIIIIIlg a Illalll CIOSllre aS defined herein. In a still further
aspect, the
present invention comprises a mould for forming the top cap as defined
herein. The main closure and/or top cap can be formed using injection or
i5 rotary moulding. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that
other suitable techniques for forming the main closure and top cap could also
be utilised.
Brief Description of Drawings
The following description of a preferred embodiment of the present
invention is provided as an example of the invention and is described with
reference to the accompanying drav~rings, in which:-
Fig. 1a is a sectional viev~~ through a main closure of a closure
according to the first aspect of the present invention depicted above the free
end of a container to be sealed by the closure;
Fig. 1b is a sectional view along line I-I of Fig. 1a;
Fig. 2a is an enlarged side elevational view of the spout of the main
closure depicted in Fig. 1a;
Fig. 2b is a representation of the thread recesses of the spout of Fig. 2a;
Fig. 3a is a cross-sectional view of the top cap shown before being
mounted to the spout of the main closure depicted in Fig. 1a; and
Fig. 3b is a representation of the thread segments on the inside surface
of the skirt of the top cap depicted in Fig. 3a.
Best Mode of Carrying Out the Invention
The closure according to the present invention when put together
comprises the main closure 10 depicted in Fig. 1a and the top cap 50
depicted in Fig. 3a.
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/A000/00353
17
An example of a bottle 80 to be sealed by the closure according to the
present 1I1V2I1t1011 1S fOTIIled frOIIl polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and
is for
a carbonated beverage (see Fig. 1a). The end portion 81 of the bottle 80 has a
free end 82. an outside cylindrical surface 83 and an inside cylindrical
surface 84. with the inside surface 84 defining a bore 85. The join between
the free end 82 and the inside surface 84 and the join between the free end 82
and the outside surface 83 are each smoothly curved and define respectively
inner and outer sealing radii 86.87 of the end portion 81 of the bottle 80.
While the present closure can seal bottles 80 having the end portion 81 as
1o depicted in Fig. 1a, it will be readily appreciated that the closure can
seal
bottles having different end portion configurations, such as no outer or inner
sealing radii, or only one of the outer or inner sealing radii.
The main closure 10 comprises a circular top 11 and a depending skirt
12. The radially inside surface of the skirt 12 is provided with a screw
thread
13 that is adapted to mate with a corresponding thread on the neck of a bottle
80 to which the main closure 10 is adapted to be attached. While the
embodiment of the main closure depicted in Fig. 1a has a continuous screw
thread 13, it will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the
thread
could comprise a number of thread SegIIleIItS eXteIldIIlg along a helical
locus
on the inside surface of the skirt 12. Other suitable means for attaching the
main closure 10 to the bottle would also be immediately apparent to a person
skilled in the art.
The radially outside surface of the skirt 12 carries a series of fine
vertical ribs 14. The fine ribs 14 in the depicted embodiment terminate at
the lower edge of the skirt 12 in a narrow circumferential rib 15.
A sealing rib 16 is provided on the underside of the top 11 of the main
closure 10. The rib 16 is continuous and annular. Seen in cross-section the
rib 16 has a first portion 17 and a second, frusto-conical, portion 18. The
first
portion 17 is contiguous with the top 11 and is spaced radially inwardly from
the skirt 12. While depicted spaced radially inwardly from the skirt 12, it
will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the first portion 17 could be
positioned such that it abuts the skirt 12 or it could comprise a thickening
of
the skirt portion 12 adjacent the top 11. The inner surface 19 of the first
portion 17 is substantially cylindrical, while the second portion 18 is of
substantially constant thickness as it extends radially inwardly from its
outer
edge which is contiguous with the lower end of the first portion 17. While
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
18
depicted as being of substantially constant thickness, it will be appreciated
by a person skilled in the art that the second portion 18 could taper slightly
in thickness as it extends radially inwardly from its outer edge. A sharp edge
21 is formed between the first portion 17 and the second portion 18. This
sharp edge 21 defines a line of weakness between the two portions 17,18 for a
purpose that will be described later in this specification.
The second portion 18 of the rib 16 also has formed on its upper
surface and proximate its free edge. a continuous annular ridge 22. The
underside of the top 11 has formed on its surface inwardly of the first
portion
17 a continuous annular ridge 23. When the main closure 10 is mounted to
and turned relatively on to the end portion 81 of the bottle 80, the second
portion 18 contacts the free end 82 of the bottle 80 and is caused to fold up
towards and. in this embodiment, against the inner surface 19 of the first
portion 17. As the main closure 10 is further relatively turned on to the end
i5 portion 81, contact is made between the underside of the top 11 and the
ridge
22 on rib 16 and between the ridge 23 and the upper surface of the second
portion 18.
Upon still further relative turning on of the main closure 10 to the end
portion 81, the ridge 22 abuts with the ridge 23 thereby ensuring the second
2o portion 18 is wedged between the free end 82 of the bottle 80 and the
underside of the top 11, ie. the movement attaching the main closure 10
tends to pinch the second portion 18 of the rib 16 between the free end 82 of
the bottle 80 and the underside of the top 11. This in turn pulls the second
portion 18 tightly in towards the outer sealing radius 87 and the cylindrical
25 outer surface 83 of the end portion 81 to produce a tight seal that extends
from the free end 82 around the outer sealing radius 87 and down onto at
least the outer surface 83 of the end portion 81 of the bottle 80.
Attached to the free end of the skirt 12 of the main closure 10 is a
tamper evident band 24 that is adapted to provide an indication of removal or
30 attempted removal of the main closure 10 from the bottle 80. The tamper
evident band 24 is connected to the skirt 12 by a plurality of frangible
bridges
25 spaced about the circumference of the free edge of the skirt 12.
The band 24 has a cylindrical body portion 26 and a plurality of spaced
rib segments 27 that extend inwardly of the body portion 26 and which are
35 adapted to provide a lip having an inner free edge to engage under a
retaining
flange extending outwardly from the end portion 81 of the bottle 80 below
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
19
the screw thread thereon. Below each rib segment 27 and extending
inwardly of the body portion 26 is a radially inwardly extending projection
28 that extends from the free end of the body portion 26 to a position about
midway along each rib segment 27.
The upper surface of each rib segment 27 extending inwardly of the
body portion 26 can comprise a first surface 29 contiguous with the body
portion 26 of the band 24, which surface slopes inwardly and downwardly
away from the top portion 11. and a second surface 31 which extends radially
inwardly from the inner terminus of the first surface 29 and has a slope angle
i0 substantially normal to the skirt 12 of the main closure 10.
OIl attaC11IT1eIlt t0 the end portion 81 of the bottle 80. the inward
projections 28 allow the rib segments 27 to ride out and over the retaining
flange on the end portion 81 of the bottle 80 without damaging the frangible
bridges 25. When the main closure 10 is removed from the bottle 80, the rib
segments 27 catch underneath the retaining flange on the bottle 80 so leading
to breakage of the frangible bridges 25. The band 24 is thereby retained on
the end portion 81 of the bottle 80. Breakage of the bridges 25 provides an
indication to a consumer that the main closure 10 has been previously
removed from the bottle 80.
The top 11 has a centrally located aperture 32 therethrough and a
spout 33 extending upwardly from the top 11. The spout 33 has a wall 34
defining a bore 35 that is in fluid communication with the aperture 32 in the
top 11.
The wall 34 of the spout 33 has a substantially cylindrical outer
surface 37 extending from its free end 38 to the retaining flange 39. The wall
34 of the spout 33 can also have a cylindrical outer surface 40 between the
retaining flange 39 and the upper side of the top 11 of the main closure 10.
The external diameter of the outer wall 40 between the flange 39 and the top
11 is greater than that of the outer wall 34 of the spout 33 extending
downwardly from the free end 38.
A plug 36 is mounted to the spout 33 and is centrally located in the
bore 35, with an annular aperture 41 between the plug 36 and the spout 33.
The annular aperture 41 is spanned by a three equally spaced bridge
members 42 that extend radially inwardly from the spout 33 to support the
plug 36 to the spout 33. The plug 36 comprises a tube having a substantially
cylindrical outer surface that extends upwardly beyond the extent of the free
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
end 38 of the spout 33 and has a sealed end 43 that is distal the free end 38
of
the spout 33.
The top cap 50 that is mountable to the spout 33 has an upper portion
51 that has a cylindrical inner surface 52 defining an opening 53 through the
5 upper portion 51. The opening 53 is adapted to relatively receive the plug
36
on spout 33 and is further described below. Prior to the plug 36 firstly
relatively entering the opening 53 from beneath on mounting of the top cap
50 to the spout 33 and adopting a first position relative to the spout 33, a
sealing rib 54 extends radially inwardly from the inner surface 52. The rib 54
10 is frusto-conical in form. substantially of constant thickness and extends
radially inwardly to a circular free edge 55. At the line of meeting of the
inner surface 52 and the sealing rib 54. a sharp edge 56 is formed that
defines
a line of weakness between the inner surface 52 and the rib 54. The sharp
edge 56 assists even deformation of the rib 54 relative to the inner surface
52
z5 when the plug 36 firstly relatively enters the opening 53 from beneath and
then folds back the sealing rib 54 towards and, in this embodiment, against
the inner surface 52. By being folded back against the inner surface 52, the
sealing rib 54 bears strongly against at least the outside surface of the plug
36
and so forms a gas-tight seal between the top cap 50 and the plug 36 when
2o the plug 36 is within the opening 53.
Once the sealing rib 54 has been folded back towards the inner surface
52 as the plug 36 firstly relatively enters the opening 53, the sealing rib 54
will normally substantially retain this position during any subsequent
movement, including longitudinal movement or rotational movement, of the
top cap 50 relative to the spout 33.
The top cap 50 has a skirt 57 depending downwardly from its upper
portion 51. An outside surface of the skirt 57 adjacent the upper portion 51
has an annular protrusion 58 extending radially outwardly therefrom that
assists a user in manipulation of the top cap 50 on the spout 33.
The top cap 50 also has a secondary sealing rib 59. In Fig. 3a, the
secondary sealing rib 59 is depicted in the position it would take prior to
the
attachment of the top cap 50 to the spout 33. The rib 59 has a first or root
portion 59a that is contiguous with the skirt 57 and a second, frusto-conical,
portion 59b that is contiguous with the first portion 59a and extends radially
inwardly and downwardly to a free edge 61. The first portion 59a has a
substantially cylindrical inner surface while the frusto-conical portion 59b
is
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
21
substantially of constant thickness along its length. When the top cap 50 is
firstly IllollIlted to the spout 33, the second frusto-conical portion 59b is
engaged by the free end 38 of the spout 33 and folded back towards and
preferably against the inner cylindrical surface of the first portion 59a to
form
a secondary seal between the spout 33 and the top cap 50.
It will be appreciated that the distance of the second portion 59b from
the upper portion 51 of the top cap 50 and the length of the second portion
59b will govern the overall position of the seal formed between the secondary
sealing rib 59 and the spout 33. If the second portion 59b is positioned
closer
to the underside of the upper portion than that depicted in Fig. 3a, then the
second portion 59b may IlOt be folded back against the first portion 59a but
instead will be pinched between the free end 38 of the spout 33 and the
underside of the upper portion 51. In an alternative arrangement. the
distance between the underside of the upper portion 51 and the second
i5 portion 59b may be such that the second portion 59b is folded back against
the inner surface of the skirt portion 5 7 and only forms a seal with the
outer
surface 37 of the spout 33.
In the embodiment depicted in Fig. 3a, the second portion 59b is of a
length that it will be folded back towards and preferably against the
2o cylindrical inner surface of the first portion 59a and the region
comprising
the join between the underside of the upper portion 51 and the inside surface
of the skirt 57. This serves to extend the seal from the outer radius of the
spout 33 (ie the region extending between its free end 28 and its cylindrical
outer surface 37) and preferably onto its outer cylindrical surface 37. It
will
25 be appreciated that the second portion 59b could be extended compared to
that depicted in Fig. 3a such that m~hen folded back towards the inner surface
of the first portion 59a, the seal would extend from at least the outer
surface
of the spout 33, around the outside radius of the spout and onto the free end
38 of the spout 33. The presence of the sealing rib 59 serves to ensure no
loss
30 of seal between the spout 33 and the skirt 57 of the top cap 50.
Once the secondary sealing rib 59 has been folded back when the top
cap 50 is mounted to the plug 36, the rib 59 will normally substantially
retain
this position during any subsequent movement, including longitudinal and
rotational movement, of the top cap 50 relative to the spout 33.
35 Also disposed on the inside cylindrical surface of the skirt 5 7 is an
annular bead 60. The bead 60 is adapted to contact the wall 34 of the spout
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
22
33 when the top cap 50 is mounted to the spout 33 even when the top cap
has been relatively moved from its first position to a second position where
the plug 36 is withdrawn from the opening 53. The bead 60 serves to help
prevent the bottle's contents, such as a carbonated beverage, from leaking
down the side of the spout 33 between the spout 33 and the top cap 50 even
when the top cap 50 is moved t0 1tS SeCOIld pOS1t10I1. The bead 60 is.
however. IlOt adapted to provide a seal for the container.
The inside cylindrical surface of the skirt 57 has two thread segments
62 formed with substantially planar and parallel end surfaces 62a that are
1o inclined to the axis of the top cap 50. The thread segments 62 are adapted
to
engage two complementary thread recesses 44 in the wall 34 when the top
cap 50 is mounted to the spout 33.
Each thread recess 44 includes an upwardly directed ramp member 45
and a holding area 46. The ramp members 45 are so located that on rotation
of the top cap 50 relative to the spout 33, the thread segments 62 enter and
move up the respective ramp members 45 so moving the top cap 50 relatively
upwardly on the spout 33. The relative upward movement of the top cap 50
serves to disengage the plug 36 from opening 53 in the upper portion 51 of
the top cap 50. Rotation of the top cap 50 in the opposite direction returns
the thread segments 62 down the respective ramp members 45 and into the
holding areas 46.
The respective ramp members 45 are formed at an angle of about 30
degrees relative to a notional radial plane normal to the skirt 5 7 of the top
cap 50. When the top cap 50 is firstly mounted to the spout 33, the top cap
50 is pushed relatively downwardly onto the spout 33 such that the thread
segments 62 engage within the thread recesses 44 on the spout 33.
The top cap 50 is provided ~~ith a tamper evident band 63 that
provides an indication of movement or attempted movement of the top cap
50 relative to the spout 33 after the top cap 50 has been mounted on the
spout 33. The tamper evident band 63 is connected to the skirt 57 by a
plurality of frangible bridges 64.
The band 63 comprises a generally cylindrical body portion 65 and a
plurality of rib segments 66 that extend inwardly of the body portion 65 and
provide a lip having all lllller free edge. The rib segments 66 are equally
spaced about the body portion 65 and constitute greater than 50% of the
internal circumference of the body portion 65.
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
23
Each of the rib segments 66 have an upper surface 67 facing generally
towards the upper portion 51 of the top cap 50 and an underside 68 facing
generally away from the upper portion 51. The underside 68 slopes inwardly
and upwardly from a free end 69 of the body portion 65. The upper surface
67 of each rib segment 66 comprises a first surface 71 contiguous with the
body portion 65, which surface slopes inwTardly and downwardly away from
the upper portion 51. and a second surface 72 which extends radially
inwardly from the inner terminus of the first surface 71 and has a slope angle
substantially normal to the skirt 57.
When the top cap 50 is firstly mounted to the spout 33. the underside
68 of each rib segment 66 helps the rib segments 66 to ride over the retaining
flange 39 on the spout 33 and locate therebeneath without damaging the
frangible bridges 64. When the top cap 50 is then rotated relative to the
spout 33 to move the opening 5 3 relatively clear of the plug 36, the rib
segments 66 engage with and are held under the retaining flange 39 thereby
causing breakage of the frangible bridges 64. While counter-rotation of the
top cap 50 will move the top cap 50 relatively back down the spout 33, the
breakage of the bridges 64 serves to indicate to the consumer of the bottle's
contents that the top cap 50 has been previously unsealed from the plug 36.
2o A further overcap can be provided to attach over the top cap of the
closure. The overcap acts to protect and keep clean the top cap 50 while the
closure 10 is sealed to the bottle 80. A shrink wrap plastic sheet can also be
applied about the bottle 80 and the closure once the closure is sealed to the
bottle 80 to protect and keep clean the top cap 50.
The main closure 10 and top cap 50 can be fabricated from
polyethylene by injection moulding. Other suitable materials and fabrication
techniques can be readily envisaged.
The main closure 10 and top cap 50 will normally be moulded
separately in appropriate moulds before the top cap 50 is mounted to the
spout 33. At mounting, the sealing ribs 54 and 59 will be folded back and
seal respectively with the plug 36 and spout 33, the thread segments 62 also
engage within the thread recesses 44, and the rib segments 66 engage beneath
the retaining flange 39. The bottle 80 is filled with a carbonated beverage
before the entire closure is turned onto the end portion 81 so forcing the rib
segments 27 on band 24 of the main closure 10 over the retaining flange on
the end portion 81 of the bottle 80. As the main closure 10 is turned onto the
WO 00/64774 CA 02370963 2001-10-19 PCT/AU00/00353
24
end portion 81. the second portion 18 of the sealing rib 16 is also folded
back
and seals ~Nith at least the outer surface 83 of the elld portion 81 of the
bottle
80. The closure has then sealed the bottle 80.
To access the carbonated beverage, the consumer has two choices.
Firstly. they can choose to remove the entire closure by simply unscrewing
the main closure 10 from the end portion 81 so breaking the frangible bridges
25. Alternatively, the consumer can choose to turn the top cap 50 so
relatively disengaging the plug 36 from the opening 53 and breaking the
frangible bridges 64. The beverage can then be poured through the spout 33
i0 and exit the bottle 80 through the annular aperture 41 and opening 53, with
leakage of the beverage between the spout 33 and inside surface of the skirt
57 prevented or at least substantially prevented by the annular bead 60. If
the consumer wishes to reseal the bottle 80, the top cap 50 is counter-rotated
returning the plug 36 into the opening 53 and into abutment with the sealing
rib 54.
It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous
variations and/or modifications may be made to the invention as shown in
the specific embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the
invention as broadly described. The present embodiments are, therefore, to
be considered in all respects as illustrative and IlOt restrictive.
