Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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Pour Cap For Fluid Containers
Field
[0001] This application relates generally to caps for fluid containers, and
more particularly to a pour cap for fluid containers such as sports bottles.
Background
[0002] Fluid containers, such as sports bottles, provide a fluid source for
persons engaged in various activities. Sports bottles typically include a
plastic body
for containing a fluid, and a cap which threadably attaches to the body. The
cap can
also include a valve assembly which can be pushed into the cap to seal the
fluid, or
pulled out of the cap for dispensing the fluid. One aspect of these sports
bottles is that
the fluid cannot be poured through the valve assembly and out of the bottle
into a
person's mouth. Rather, the body of the bottle must be squeezed to force the
fluid
through the valve assembly into the mouth. As the fluid level drops, the
bottle must
also be manipulated to allow air to flow from the atmosphere through the valve
assembly into the bottle.
[0003] For pouring the fluid out of a conventional sports bottle the cap can
be
screwed off, and the fluid poured out of the mouth of the bottle. However,
this can be
inconvenient in many situations, particularly during strenuous activities such
as
walking, biking or running. In addition, if the cap is removed from a
conventional
sports bottle, the fluid is more likely to spill out of the bottle and onto
the ground.
Also, the mouth of the bottle has a relatively large diameter, such that
during drinking
with the cap off, the fluid is prone to splatter onto a person's face and
clothes.
[0004] It would be advantageous for a fluid container to have a cap which
permits the fluid to be easily poured from the container without having to
remove the
cap. It would also be advantageous for a fluid container to have a cap which
offers
some spill protection, and permits a user to drink without wasting or wearing
the
fluid. Further, it would be advantageous for a cap to be capable of use with
containers having different constructions.
[0005] The foregoing examples of the related art and limitations related
therewith are intended to be illustrative and not exclusive. Other limitations
of the
related art will become apparent to those of skill in the art upon a reading
of the
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specification and a study of the drawings. Similarly, the following
embodiments and
aspects thereof are described and illustrated in conjunction with a pour cap
and fluid
container which are meant to be exemplary and illustrative, not limiting in
scope.
Summary
[0006] A pour cap for a fluid container includes a cap body, a gasket mounted
to
the cap body, and a threaded ring with female threads attached to the cap
body. The cap
is configured for removable attachment to male threads on the neck of the
container. The
cap can be positioned on the container in a closed position wherein a sealing
surface on
the gasket is compressed to form a high pressure seal, or in an open position
wherein the
fluid can be poured from the container. In the open position, the gasket
allows fluid flow
through pour openings in the cap body, while first and second low pressure
seals formed
by first and second portions of the gasket prevent unwanted fluid flow through
the cap
body and the threaded ring. A first low pressure seal is formed by the gasket
on the cap
body, and a second low pressure seal is formed by the gasket on the inside
diameter of
the neck of the container.
100071 For switching between the closed position and the open position, a user
can rotate the cap counterclockwise about a quarter turn or more. For
switching between
the open position and the closed position, the user can rotate the cap
clockwise to tighten
the cap on the threaded neck. In the closed position of the pour cap, the cap
body
compresses the gasket with a controlled deformation to form the high pressure
seal. In the
open position of the pour cap, the cap body allows the gasket to restore to an
essentially
undeformed shape, wherein a fluid flow passage is formed, while the two low
pressure
seals prevent unwanted fluid flow through the cap body and the threaded ring.
[0007a] In another embodiment, the invention provides a cap for a container
adapted to contain a fluid. The cap comprises: a cap body configured for
attachment to a
neck of the container having at least one pour opening through which the fluid
can be
poured from the container, the cap body moveable by rotation on the neck of
the
container to an open position or to a closed position and; a deformable gasket
attached to
the cap body having a fluid flow opening, a first portion configured to form a
first seal on
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the cap body, and a second portion configured to form a second seal on an
inside
diameter or a top surface of the neck of the container, the gasket configured
for
deformation and compression by the cap body in the closed position to form a
third seal
on a top surface of the neck of the container, the gasket configured to form a
fluid flow
passage through the gasket in the open position allowing fluid flow from the
container
through the fluid flow opening in the gasket to the pour opening in the cap
body while
maintaining the first seal and the second seal, the fluid flow passage sealed
in the closed
position and having a maximum size in the open position controlled by the
movement of
the gasket to an undeformed state; and a support rib on the cap body
configured to fit into
the neck of the container for maintaining a shape of the gasket during
placement on the
container and during storage of the cap when not on the container.
[0007b] In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a cap for a
container
adapted to contain a fluid. The cap comprises: a cap body configured for
attachment to a
neck of the container having at least one pour opening through which the fluid
can be
poured from the container, the cap body moveable by rotation on the neck of
the
container to an open position or to a closed position and; a deformable gasket
attached to
the cap body having a fluid flow opening, a first portion configured to form a
first seal on
the cap body, and a second portion configured to form a second seal on an
inside
diameter or a top surface of the neck of the container, the gasket configured
for
deformation and compression by the cap body in the closed position to form a
third seal
on a top surface of the neck of the container, the gasket configured to form a
fluid flow
passage through the gasket in the open position allowing fluid flow from the
container
through the fluid flow opening in the gasket to the pour opening in the cap
body while
maintaining the first seal and the second seal, the fluid flow passage sealed
in the closed
position and having a maximum size in the open position controlled by movement
of the
gasket to an undeformed state; wherein the first portion of the gasket seats
in a groove in
the cap body and a groove in the threaded ring to form the first seal.
[0007c] In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a cap for a
container
adapted to contain a fluid. The cap comprises: a cap body configured for
attachment to a
neck of the container having at least one pour opening through which the fluid
can be
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poured from the container, the cap body moveable by rotation on the neck of
the
container to an open position or to a closed position and; a deformable gasket
attached to
the cap body having a fluid flow opening, a first portion configured to form a
first seal on
the cap body, and a second portion configured to form a second seal on an
inside
diameter or a top surface of the neck of the container, the gasket configured
for
deformation and compression by the cap body in the closed position to form a
third seal
on a top surface of the neck of the container, the gasket configured to form a
fluid flow
passage through the gasket in the open position allowing fluid flow from the
container
through the fluid flow opening in the gasket to the pour opening in the cap
body while
maintaining the first seal and the second seal, the fluid flow passage sealed
in the closed
position and having a maximum size in the open position controlled by movement
of the
gasket to an undeformed state; wherein the second portion of the gasket
includes an o-
ring feature configured to seat in the inside diameter or an edge of the neck
of the
container to form the second seal.
[0007d] In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a cap for a
container
adapted to contain a fluid. The cap comprises: a cap body configured for
attachment to a
neck of the container having at least one pour opening through which the fluid
can be
poured from the container, the cap body moveable by rotation on the neck of
the
container to an open position or to a closed position and; a deformable gasket
attached to
the cap body having a fluid flow opening, a first portion configured to form a
first seal
on the cap body, and a second portion configured to form a second seal on an
inside
diameter or a top surface of the neck of the container, the gasket configured
for
deformation and compression by the cap body in the closed position to form a
third seal
on a top surface of the neck of the container, the gasket configured to form a
fluid flow
passage through the gasket in the open position allowing fluid flow from the
container
through the fluid flow opening in the gasket to the pour opening in the cap
body while
maintaining the first seal and the second seal, the fluid flow passage sealed
in the closed
position and having a maximum size in the open position controlled by movement
of the
gasket to an undeformed state; wherein the gasket includes at least one
thinned segment
configured to maintain flexibility and provide a localized place of
predictable
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deformation in the open position of the pour cap for maintaining the first
seal and the
second seal, and the maximum size of the flow passage.
[0008] A method for sealing and pouring a fluid from a container having a
threaded neck includes the step of providing a pour cap having a cap body with
one or
more pour openings, a gasket on the cap body, and a threaded ring on the cap
body
having threads for engaging the threaded neck on the container. The method can
also
include the step of tightening the cap body on the threaded neck of the
container to a
closed position wherein controlled deformation of the gasket seals the
container with a
high pressure seal. The method can also include the step of rotating the cap
body on the
threaded neck of the container to an open position wherein the gasket returns
to an
essentially undeformed state to form a fluid flow passage, while providing
first and
second low pressure seals for preventing unwanted fluid flow through the cap
body and
the threaded ring. In the open position, the method can also include the step
of pouring
the fluid through the gasket, through the flow passage, and through the pour
openings in
the cap body.
[0008a] In another embodiment, the invention provides a method for sealing and
pouring a fluid from a container having a threaded neck. The method comprises
the steps
of: providing a pour cap having a cap body with one or more pour openings, a
deformable gasket on the cap body having a fluid flow opening, a first portion
configured
to form a first seal on the cap body, and a second portion configured to form
a second
seal on an inside diameter or a top surface of the neck of the container, and
a threaded
ring on the cap body having threads for engaging the threaded neck on the
container;
tightening the cap body on the threaded neck of the container to a closed
position wherein
deformation of the gasket seals the container with a high pressure seal;
rotating the cap
body on the threaded neck of the container to an open position wherein the
gasket returns
to an essentially undeformed state to form a fluid flow passage through the
gasket, while
maintaining the first seal and the second seal for preventing unwanted fluid
flow through
the cap body and the threaded ring; and controlling a deformation of the
gasket in the
open position using a plurality of thinned segments on the gasket so that the
fluid flow
passage has a maximum size in the open position.
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Brief Description of the Drawings
[0009] Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in the referenced figures of the
drawings. It is intended that the embodiments and the figures disclosed herein
are to be
considered illustrative rather than limiting.
[0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view partially cut away of a first embodiment
pour cap;
[0011] Figure 2 is a cross sectional view of the pour cap of Figure 1 attached
to a
container in an open position;
[0012] Figure 3 is a perspective view partially cut away of a cap body for the
pour
cap of Figure 1;
[0013] Figure 4 is a perspective view partially cut away of a gasket for the
pour
cap of Figure 1;
[0014] Figure 5 is a perspective view partially cut away of a thread ring for
the
pour cap of Figure 1;
[0015] Figure 6 is a cross sectional view of the pour cap of Figure 1 attached
to
the container and shown in a closed position;
[0016] Figure 7 is a cross sectional view of the pour cap of Figure 1 attached
to
the container and shown in an open position;
[0017] Figure 8 is a cross sectional view of a pour cap substantially similar
to the
pour cap of Figure 1 having mating detents for indicating an open position;
[0018] Figures 8 A and 8B are enlarged portions of Figure 8 illustrating the
mating detents;
[0019] Figure 9 is a cross sectional view of the pour cap of Figure 1 attached
to a
container having an extrusion blow mold construction;
[0020] Figure 9A is an enlarged portion of Figure 9 showing a seal;
[0021] Figure 10 is a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment pour cap
with a removeable gasket shown in the open position;
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[0022] Figure 11 is a cross sectional view of the alternate embodiment pour
cap of Figure 11 shown in the closed position;
[0023] Figure 12 is a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment pour
cap with a removeable bellows gasket shown in the closed position;
[0024] Figure 13 is a perspective view partially cut away of the alternate
embodiment pour cap of Figure 10;
[0025] Figure 14 is a cross sectional view of the gasket for the alternate
embodiment pour cap of Figure 10;
[0026] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the gasket for the alternate
embodiment pour cap of Figure 10;
[0027] Figure 16 is a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment single
use pour cap having a tamper ring attached to a disposable container;
[0028] Figure 17 is a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment single
use pour cap without a gasket attached to a disposable container;
[0029] Figure 18 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment pour cap
having a non drip nozzle; and
[0030] Figure 19 is a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment pour
cap having an alternate embodiment cap body.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments
[0031] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, a pour cap 10 for a fluid container 12
includes a cap body 14, a gasket 16 mounted to the cap body 14, and a threaded
ring
18 attached to the cap body 14. In the pour cap 10 the threaded ring 18 and
the cap
body 14 comprise separate elements that are bonded together as one. However,
it is
to be understood that the cap body 14 and the threaded ring 18 can comprise a
single
piece having a unitary molded construction. Some of the alternate embodiments
to be
described illustrate a single piece construction.
[0032] As shown in Figure 2, the fluid container 12 is generally cylindrical
in
shape having an outside diameter sized for handling by a user, and a body
having an
interior portion 28 adapted to contain a fluid 20. In the illustrative
embodiment, the
fluid container 12 comprises an injection blow molded plastic bottle adapted
to
contain a selected volume of the fluid 20 (e.g., 8-64 oz or 200-2000 m1).
However,
the fluid container can comprise any suitable container such as a sports
bottle, a water
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bottle, a beverage bottle, a medical bottle, a coffee cup or a gasoline can.
In addition,
rather than being made of plastic, the fluid container 12 can comprise another
material
such as glass or metal, and can be fabricated using any process known in the
art. The
fluid container 12 can also include a shoulder 30 which facilitates handling
by the
user.
[0033] As also shown in Figure 2, the fluid container 12 includes a neck 22
having male threads 24 on an outside diameter thereof, and an inside diameter
26
formed continuously with the interior portion 28 of the container 12. The neck
22 has
a continuous circular top surface 32 with a selected diameter, which in the
illustrative
embodiment is less than that of a remainder of the container 12.
[0034] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the threaded ring 18 includes female
threads 36 configured for mating engagement with the male threads 24 on the
neck 22
of the container 12 for attaching the pour cap 10 to the container 12. In
addition, the
female threads 36 function to move the pour cap 10 up or down in an axial or z-
direction direction, along the longitudinal axis 40 of the container 12, as
indicated by
double headed cap movement arrow 38 (Figure 2). With right hand female threads
36, rotation of the threaded ring 18 in a clockwise direction moves the pour
cap 10
downward or towards the interior portion 28 of the container 12. Conversely,
rotation
of the threaded ring 18 in a counterclockwise direction moves the pour cap 10
upward, or away from the interior portion 28 of the container 12. As will be
further
explained, clockwise rotation allows the pour cap 10 to be positioned in a
closed
position wherein the container 12 is sealed and no fluid flow through the pour
cap 10
is possible. Conversely, counterclockwise rotation of the threaded ring 18 by
a
quarter turn or more, allows the pour cap 10 to be positioned in an open
position
wherein fluid flow through the pour cap 10 is permitted. Figure 2 illustrates
the pour
cap 10 in an open position. In addition, rotation of the threaded ring 18 in a
counterclockwise direction by about 1.5 to 2 turns allows the pour cap 10 to
be
completely removed from the container 12.
[0035] Referring to Figure 3, the cap body 14 is shown separately. The cap
body 14 has a generally cylindrical peripheral shape, which is slightly larger
than the
outside diameter of the neck 22 of the container 12. The outside diameter of
the cap
body 14 can be selected as required, with from 2 cm to 10 cm being
representative.
The cap body 14 can be formed of a rigid material such as a hard plastic,
using a
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suitable process such as injection molding, extrusion molding or machining.
Suitable
plastic materials for the cap body 14 include high density polyethylene
(HDPE), low
density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate and polyester.
Rather than plastic, the cap body 14 can be made out of glass, ceramic or a
metal,
such as aluminum. As another alternate the cap body 14 can comprise a
composite
material such as a carbon fiber material.
[0036] As shown in Figure 3, the cap body 14 includes a top surface 42 and
an outer circumferential side 46. The cap body 14 also includes a recessed
bowl 48
extending from the top surface 42 having a generally concave shape similar to
a
shallow soup bowl. The cap body 14 also includes two pour openings 44 on the
top
surface 42 located 180 degrees apart proximate to the outer circumferential
side 46 of
the cap body 14. The pour openings 44 are generally elliptical in shape and
are sized
to pour the fluid 20 (Figure 2) smoothly into another receptacle such as a
user's
mouth. The circumferential side 46 of the cap body 14 is smooth near the pour
openings 44, which permits the user to place his or her mouth around the pour
openings 44 without irritation. In addition, the circumferential side 46 of
the cap
body 14 can include one or more chamfered surfaces 54, such that there are no
sharp
edges on the cap body 14.
[0037] As also shown in Figure 3, the circumferential side 46 of the cap body
14 includes two grip segments 50 spaced 180 degrees apart, which permit the
user to
grip the cap body 14 for rotation in either direction. The grip segments 50
include a
plurality of parallel spaced grooves, which allow the cap body 14 to be
manipulated
without slipping from the user's grasp. The grip segments 50 also extend over
the top
surface 42 and onto the recessed bowl 48 with a curved boundary edge 52.
[0038] As also shown in Figure 3, the cap body 14 includes a continuous
sidewall 56 having a desired thickness which closes the recessed bowl 48, and
defines
the cross sectional shape of the cap body 14. A representative thickness of
the
sidewall 56 can be from 1 mm to 2.5 mm. The cap body 14 also includes an
annular
support rib 58 configured to maintain the shape of the gasket 16 (Figure 2)
during use
and storage. As shown in Figure 2, the support rib 58 has an outside diameter
which
is slightly less than the inside diameter 26 of the neck 22 of the container
12, such that
the support rib 58 nests into the inside diameter 26 of the neck 22 but with
clearance
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for the gasket 16. The support rib 58 thus functions to center and seat the
gasket 16 in
the neck 22 of the container 12.
[0039] As also shown in Figure 3, the cap body 14 also includes a sealing rib
60 and a groove 61 which are configured to seat the gasket 16 (Figure 2) for
providing a first low pressure seal 63 (Figure 7) for sealing the container 12
in a
manner to be further described. In an alternate embodiment cap body 14A
(Figure
11) to be further described, the sealing rib 60 can be eliminated. The cap
body 14
also includes a radiused compression surface 62 configured to compress the
gasket 16
(Figure 2) with a controlled deformation against the top surface 32 (Figure 6)
of the
neck 22 of the container 12 to form a high pressure seal 67 (Figure 6). The
cap body
14 also includes an inner edge 64 which is sized and shaped for attachment to
the
threaded ring 18 (Figure 2). For example, the threaded ring 18 can be attached
to the
cap body 14 using bonded connection such as spin welding, a welding adhesive
or
other suitable adhesive. As another alternative, the threaded ring 18 can be
sized and
shaped to be snapped into the inner edge 64 of the cap body 14, with the
mating
surfaces and dimensions providing a press fit. With a press fit, mating
members such
as splines (not shown) can also be provided for transmitting torque between
the
threaded ring 18 and the cap body 14.
[0040] Referring to Figure 4, the gasket 16 is shown separately. The gasket
16 is a generally ring shaped member which is sized and shaped for attachment
to the
cap body 14. The gasket 16 is configured to seal the container 12 in the
closed
position of the pour cap 10 with the high pressure seal 67 (Figure 6). As used
herein,
the term high pressure seal refers to a hydraulic seal able to resist fluid
pressures in
the range of 10 to 30 psi. In some of the claims to follow the high pressure
seal 67 is
referred to as "a third seal". The gasket 16 is also configured to allow fluid
flow
through the pour openings 44 (Figure 3) in the open position of the pour cap
10. The
gasket 16 is also configured to provide the first low pressure seal 63 (Figure
7) and
the second low pressure seal 65 (Figure 7) which prevent unwanted fluid flow
between the container 12 and the pour cap 10 in the open position of the pour
cap 10.
As used herein, the term low pressure seal refers to a hydraulic seal able to
resist fluid
pressures in the range of 0 to 0.5 psi. In some of the claims to follow, the
first low
pressure seal 63 is referred to as "a first seal" and the second low pressure
seal 65 is
referred to as "a second seal". The gasket 16 can be made of a resilient
polymer
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material such as silicone, urethane, synthetic rubber, natural rubber, or
polyimide. A
representative durometer of the gasket 16 can be from 60-85 Shore A.
[0041] As shown in Figure 4, the gasket 16 includes a shoulder 66 configured
to removeably secure the gasket 16 to the groove 61 (Figure 3) in the cap body
14.
The gasket 16 also includes a bottom portion 72 having an outside diameter
that
substantially matches the inside diameter 26 (Figure 2) of the neck 22 (Figure
2) of
the container 12 (Figure 2). With the outside diameter of the bottom portion
72 of the
gasket 16 being less than the outside diameter of the shoulder 66, that the
gasket 16
has a stepped configuration. The bottom portion 72 of the gasket 16 can have a
tapered shape, and a chamfered edge, to aid in the insertion of the gasket 16
into the
inside diameter 26 (Figure 2) of the neck 22. The gasket 16 also includes o-
ring
features 68 configured to compress against the inside diameter 26 (Figure 2)
of the
neck 22 of the container 12 to form the second low pressure seal 65. The o-
ring
features 68 are shown with a rounded or convex geometry for simplicity.
However,
the o-ring features 68 can be formed with any suitable geometry such as an
angular
geometry or other shape, as long as a circumferential line of contact is
achieved
against the inside diameter 26 (Figure 2) of the neck 22.
[0042] As shown in Figure 4, the gasket 16 also includes a set of fluid flow
openings 70 proximate to the bottom portion 72. The fluid flow openings 70 are
generally elliptical in shape and can have a desired diameter, number and
spacing.
For example, the fluid flow openings 70 can be equally radially spaced along
the
circumference of the bottom portion 72. In the open position of the pour cap
10, the
fluid flow openings 70 allow the fluid 20 (Figure 2) to flow through the
gasket 16,
and then through the pour openings 44 (Figure 3) in the cap body 14.
[0043] As shown in Figure 4, the gasket 16 also includes a U-shaped shoulder
74 on the inside surface of the bottom portion 72 proximate to the fluid flow
openings
70. The shoulder 74 is configured to center the gasket 16 on the support rib
58
(Figure 3) of the cap body 14 when the pour cap 10 is mounted to the neck 22
of the
container 12. The gasket 16 also includes thinned segments 71 with thinned
sidewalls
76 that help the gasket 16 to maintain flexibility and provide a localized
place of
predictable deformation in the closed position of the pour cap 10 and for
maintaining
the low pressure seals 63, 65 in the opening position. In addition, as will be
further
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explained, the thinned segments 71 roll back to an essentially undeformed
state with
little force when the pour cap 10 is loosened.
[0044] As shown in Figure 4, the gasket 16 also includes a sealing surface 78
configured to seal against the top surface 32 (Figure 2) and inside edge of
the neck 22
(Figure 2) of the container 12. As will be further explained, the sealing
surface 62
(Figure 3) on the cap body 14 compresses the sealing surface 78 of the gasket
16
against the top surface 32 (Figure 2) and inside edge of the neck 22 (Figure
2) to form
the high pressure seal 67 (Figure 6). During initial placement of the pour cap
10 on
the container 12 it is also necessary to align the gasket 16 such that it
seats on the
inside diameter 26 of the neck 22 of the container 12. In this position, the o-
ring
features 68 form the second low pressure seal 65 (Figure 6). The tapered shape
of the
end portion 72 of the gasket 16 facilitates this alignment.
[0045] Referring to Figure 5, the threaded ring 18 is shown separately. The
threaded ring 18 is generally ring shaped, and is sized and shaped to be
bonded or
spin welded to the cap body 14 (Figure 3). The threaded ring 18 includes the
female
threads 36 configured for mating engagement with the male threads 24 (Figure
2) on
the neck 22 (Figure 2) of the container 12. The female threads 36 are not
continuous,
but rather flat surfaces 64 are formed between the female threads 36 for
economic
reasons. The threaded ring 18 also includes a pinch rib 84 configured to seal
and
secure the shoulder 66 of the gasket 16 (Figure 2) on the pour cap 10. It
should be
understood, although not shown in the drawings, that the threaded ring 18 can
be
joined to the cap body 14 with a snap fit geometry in combination with axial
splines.
The splines would counteract torsional forces that occur during tightening and
loosening of the pour cap 10.
[0046] Referring to Figure 6, the pour cap 10 is shown in the closed position.
In the closed position, the gasket 16 hydraulically seals the neck 22 of the
container
12. For initiating the closed position, the pour cap 10 can be rotated
clockwise such
that female threads 36 on the threaded ring 18 are tight on the male threads
24 on the
neck 22 of the container 12. In addition, the gasket 16 is shaped for
compression with
a controlled deformation by the surface 78 and the radiused surface 62 of the
cap
body 14 against the top surface 32 and inside edge of the neck 22 of the
container 12.
Also in the closed position, the first low pressure seal 63 (Figure 6) and the
second
low pressure seal 65 (Figure 6) are formed by the gasket 16. However, in the
closed
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position the low pressure seals 63, 65 (Figure 6) are superseded by the high
pressure
seal 67 (Figure 6).
[0047] Referring to Figure 7, the pour cap 10 is shown in an open position.
To move the pour cap 10 from the closed position (Figure 6) to the open
position
(Figure 7), the pour cap 10 can be rotated counterclockwise by a quarter turn
or more.
As will be further explained the cap body 14 can also have an alignment mark
118A
(Figure 13) which indicates the placement of the pour cap 10 in the open or
closed
position. As another alternative shown in Figure 8, the male threads 24 on the
neck
22 of the container 12 can include detents 86 which mate with mating detents
88 on
the female threads 36 of the threaded ring 18 to communicate with noise and
resistance the rotation of the pour cap 10 at the open position. However, the
detents
86, 88 are optional and are not essential to the operation of the pour cap 10.
[0048] As shown in Figure 7, in the open position, the pour cap 10 has been
moved upward by rotation of the female threads 36 on the thread ring 18
against the
male threads 24 on the neck 22 of the container 12. In addition, the gasket 16
is no
longer compressed such that the high pressure seal on the top surface 32 of
the neck
22 of the container 12 is no longer present. However, the first low pressure
seal 63
and the second low pressure seal 65 are maintained by the gasket 16. The low
pressure seals 63, 65 prevent the fluid 20 from flowing between the gasket 16
and the
inside diameter 26 and then through the mating threads 24/36. However, the
fluid 20
can flow through the fluid flow openings 70 in the gasket 16 and through a
passage 82
formed between the gasket 16 and the support rib 58 of the cap body 14.
[0049] Figure 7 also illustrates the formation of the passage 82 with the
gasket 16 in an essentially undeformed state. As shown in Figure 7, during
formation
of the passage 82, the controlled deformation of the gasket 16 reverses
itself, and the
gasket 16 returns essentially to its' molded shape in its' undeformed state.
The flow
rate of the fluid is affected by the size of the passage 82 and by the size of
the pour
openings 44 in the cap body 14. One way of insuring a sufficiently large size
for the
passage 82 is to control the deformation of the gasket 16 as the pour cap 10
is rotated
to the open position. In particular, the gasket 16 can be configured such that
the
deformation essentially occurs in the thinned segments 71 (Figure 4). As the
pour cap
is continually loosened by counterclockwise rotation, the gasket shoulder 66
moves away from the top surface 32 of the neck 22 of the container 12, while
the
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thinned segments 71 (Figure 4) are sufficiently uncurled from the deformed
shape of
the gasket 16 in the closed position to a state of essentially undeformed
geometry. At
this point, the passage 82 has a maximum size and provides a maximum flow
rate.
The o-ring features 68 (Figure 4) will remain pressed against the inside
diameter 26 of
the neck 22 during transition between the closed and opened positions and vice
versa
such that the low pressure seal is always maintained.
[0050] Figure 9 illustrates a fluid container 12A having a neck 22F with a
flanged top surface 32F. In this case the fluid container 12F can be formed
using an
extrusion blow molding process. As illustrated in Figure 9, the pour cap 10
can be
used with the container 12F substantially as previously explained for the
container 12
formed by an injection blow molding process. With the neck 22F only the upper
o-
ring feature 68 engages the flanged top surface 32F to form a lower pressure
seal 65F
as shown in Figure 9A.
[0051] Referring to Figures 10-15, an alternate embodiment pour cap 10A is
shown attached to the container 12. The pour cap 10A includes a cap body 14A,
a
gasket 16A removeably attached to the cap body 14A, and a threaded ring 18A
attached to the cap body 14A. The pour cap 10A is substantially similar in
structure
and function to the pour cap 10 (Figure 1) but includes some different
features and
operational characteristics. One major difference is in the structure and
function of
the gasket 16A which can be more easily removed from the pour cap 10A for
cleaning.
[0052] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the gasket 16A includes a moveable
portion 92A on an upper portion 102A (Figure 14), which as will be further
explained, allows for a larger relative motion between the cap 10A and the
container
12. In addition, the cap body 14A does not include the sealing rib 60 (Figure
3), and
the threaded ring 18A does not include the pinch rib 84 (Figure 5). In the
pour cap
10A, a tip of the gasket 16A forms a sealing lip 96A, which seals against a
non
drafted surface 94A on the cap body 14A to form a first low pressure seal 63A
(Figure 10). The sealing lip 96A is configured to slide between an edge 98A of
the
threaded ring 18A and an inner compression surface 100A on the cap body 14A.
In
particular, the sealing lip 96A can slide within this range of motion in the
open
position of the cap 10A such as during pouring or drinking of the fluid 20
from the
container 12.
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[0053] As shown in Figure 10, when the pour cap 10A is initially screwed
onto the container 12, the moveable portion 92A of the gasket 16A initially
contacts
surface 98A and is pushed upward until it contacts the upper surface 100A on
the cap
body 14A. During this motion, the sealing lip 96A of the gasket 16A contacts
the
smooth surface 94A on the cap body 14A to form the first low pressure seal
63A. As
the cap 10A is fully tightened by clockwise rotation of the cap 10A to the
closed
position, the gasket 16A is compressed between the compression surface 62A on
the
cap body 14A and the top surface 32 and inside edge of the fluid container 12
to form
the high pressure seal 67A (Figure 11). As shown in Figure 10, as the cap 10A
is
rotated counterclockwise to the open position, the moveable portion 92A of the
gasket
16A will remain seated on the top surface 32 of the container neck 22, until
the
sealing lip 96A of the gasket 16A contacts the top edge 98A of the threaded
ring 18A.
If the cap 10A is rotated further in the counterclockwise direction, the
gasket 16A will
be pulled from its' seated position. With further cap rotation beyond this
point, the
cap 10A can be completely removed from the container 12.
[0054] Referring to Figures 14 and 15, the gasket 16A has a specific shape
that provides for optimal operation. The gasket 16A includes an upper portion
102A
and a lower portion 104A. The lower portion 104A of the gasket 16A has a
thicker
wall thickness than the upper section 102A. This assures that there is a
higher
compressive force between the o-ring features 68A, and the inside diameter 26
(Figure 11) of the container neck 22 (Figure 11), than between the cap body
14A and
the sealing lip 96A on the upper portion 102A of the gasket 16A. Stated
differently,
there is more friction between the gasket 16A and the inside diameter 26
(Figure 11)
of the container neck 22 (Figure 11), than between the sealing lip 96A and the
non
drafted sealing surface 94A on the cap body 14A of the gasket 16A. This
assures that
the cap 10A can move upward and downward relative to the lower portion 104A of
the gasket 16A, which remains stationary and seated in the inside diameter 26
(Figure
11) of the container neck 22 (Figure 11) to form the second low pressure seal
65A
(Figure 11). In this regard, the lower portion 104A of the gasket 16A must
remain
seated in the inside diameter 26 (Figure 12) of the container neck 22 (Figure
11) in
the open position of the cap 10A to form the second low pressure seal 65A
(Figure
11) during pouring or drinking from the cap 10A.
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[0055] Another feature of the thin wall of the upper portion 102A (Figure 14)
of the gasket 16A (Figure 14) is that it is more flexible than the lower
portion 104A
(Figure 14) of the gasket 16A (Figure 14). This flexibility is critical
because there is
relative motion between the female threads 36A (Figure 13) on the cap body 14A
(Figure 13) and the male threads 24 (Figure 11) on the neck 22 (Figure 11) of
the
container 12 (Figure 11) due to clearances. These clearances are necessary for
proper
operation of the threads, and also occur due to variations in the manufacture
of the
cap 10A (Figure 11) and the container 12 (Figure 11). This relative motion can
occur
when the cap 10A (Figure 11) is pushed from side to side or wiggled in an
angular
direction. In order to obtain the desired flexibility, the gasket 16A includes
a radiused
corner 106A (Figure 14), a vertical wall 108A (Figure 14), and the moveable
portion
92A (Figure 14) on an upper portion 102A thereof that are thinned. In
particular, the
gasket 16A includes thinned sidewalls 110A (Figure 14) in the upper portion
102A
above the radiused corner 106A (Figure 14), and thick sidewalls 112A (Figure
14) in
the lower portion 104A below the radiused corner 106A (Figure 14). According
to
good plastic injection mold practices, once the wall section is thinned at the
radiused
corner 106A (Figure 14), all remaining downstream wall sections (i.e., lower
portion
104A (Figure 14) should be thinned. For economic reasons the gasket 16A can be
made from a single material. However, the desired flexibility of the upper
section
102A can be achieved using a more costly overmolding process. In this way, a
more
flexible material can form the upper portion 102A and join with a stiffer
material used
to form the lower portion 104A of the gasket 16A. This same method can be used
to
make the coefficient of friction of the upper portion 102A different than the
lower
portion 104A..
[0056] During use of the gasket 14A (Figure 14), it is advantageous for the
sealing lip 96A (Figure 14) to maintain a perfectly round geometry when the
cap 10A
(Figure 12) is moved side-to-side or wiggled. The gasket 14A (Figure 14) is
constructed such that the sealing lip 96A (Figure 14) maintains its' round
shape. As
shown in Figure 14, the sealing lip 96A includes a beveled surface 114A
(Figure 14)
which stiffens the top edge of the sealing lip 96A (Figure 14) so that it
remains
circular when the cap 10A (Figure 12) is moved side-to-side or wiggled. If the
sealing lip 96A (Figure 14) were not made rigid by the beveled surface, it
could flex
in such a way that it would break contact with the smooth surface 94A (Figure
12) on
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the side of the cap body 14A (Figure 12). To stiffen the sealing lip 96A
(Figure 15)
further, the gasket 16A (Figure 15) includes ribs 116A (Figure 15) which
support the
beveled surface 114A (Figure 14) of the sealing lip 96A (Figure 14). With this
construction, the sealing lip 96A (Figure 15) remains circular with any
sideward
motion of the cap 10A (Figure 12). Further, the thinned vertical side wall
108A
(Figure 14) and the radiused corner 106A (Figure 14) provide hinge points that
allow
the sealing lip 96A (Figure 14) to maintain a hydraulic seal even if the cap
10A
(Figure 12) is pushed into a state of non-concentric alignment and/or wiggled
upward
or downward.
[0057] The beveled surface 114A (Figure 14) is also angled to promote liquid
flow into the container 12 (Figure 12). The stiffening ribs 116A (Figure 15)
also keep
the sealing lip 96A (Figure 15) from turning inside out when the gasket
16A(Figure
11) is pulled upward from the neck 22 (Figure 11) of the container 12 (Figure
11).
Furthermore, the vertical length of the sealing lip 96A (Figure 11) is
sufficient to
maintain contact with the smooth surface 94A (Figure 11) when the cap 10A
(Figure
11) is wiggled angularly to an extreme position. If the maximum angular
rotation is
known, simple geometry can be used to calculate the length of the sealing lip
96A
(Figure 11) that will insure that contact is maintained.
[0058] As shown in Figure 12, the moveable portion 92A (Figure 11) can be
shaped as a bellows moveable portion 92AB which allows an even greater range
of
cap and bottle misalignment. As shown in Figure 13, a top surface 120A of the
gasket 10A can also include an alignment feature 118A such as a raised cross.
With
the cap body 14A being made of a transparent material, the alignment feature
118A
(Figure 13) can be used to indicate whether the cap 10A (Figure 13) is fully
tightened
or not. In particular, when the cap 10A (Figure 13) is tightened, the
alignment feature
118A (Figure 13) will contact the cap body 14A (Figure 13). If the cap 10A
(Figure
13) is molded from a transparent material, the contact between the gasket 16A
(Figure
13) and the cap body 14A (Figure 13) will make the shape of the alignment
feature
118A (Figure 13) visible through the cap body 14A (Figure 13). When the cap
10A
(Figure 13) is loosened, and contact between the cap body 14A (Figure 13) and
gasket
16A (Figure 13) is broken, the alignment feature 118A (Figure 13) will not be
seen
with clarity.
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[0059] Referring to Figure 16, an alternate embodiment pour cap 10B is
constructed for use with a disposable, single use, container 12B, such as a
beverage
container adapted to contain water, vitamin enriched water, juice or soda. In
this
application, assuring low cost and ease of high volume assembly are critical.
The cap
10B includes a cap body 14B having a pour opening 44B, a gasket 16B and a
tamper
proof ring 120B for safety purposes. Alternately, a heat shrink film (not
shown) can
be placed around the cap 10B in place of the tamper proof ring 120B. The
shrink film
has the advantage that it provides a sanitary barrier as well as a safety
seal.
[0060] As shown in Figure 16, the cap body 14B includes female threads 36B
that mate with male threads 24B on an inside diameter 26B of the neck of the
container 12B. The cap body 14B has a one piece construction so there is no
discrete
thread ring as in the previous embodiments. The cap body 14B and the tamper
proof
ring 120B can also be formed with a one piece construction. The gasket 16B
fits
within the container neck 26B and acts as a seal between the container 12B and
the
cap body 14B in three different places. A high pressure seal 122B is formed by
pinching of the gasket 16B when the cap 10B is in a closed position. This high
pressure seal 122B insures the contents don't leak when the cap 10B is fully
tightened.
A first low pressure seal 124B is formed between the gasket 16B and the cap
body
14B and a second low pressure seal 125B is formed between the container neck
26B
and the gasket 16B. The low pressure seals 124B, 125B prevent fluid from
pouring
down the neck 22B of the container 12B, when the cap 10B is in the open
position
and the fluid contents are poured though holes 44B in the cap 10B. In
addition,
angled surfaces 132B are required to guide the interfering surfaces together
during
assembly.
[0061] Referring to Figure 17, an alternate embodiment pour cap 10C is
substantially similar to pour cap 10B (Figure 16) and includes a cap body 14C
having
a pour opening 44C, and a tamper proof ring 122C, but no gasket. This
construction
is the cheapest and easiest to assemble. The cap 10C (Figure 17), and the cap
10B
(Figure 16) as well, require the neck 22C of the container 12C and the sealing
surfaces 126C, 128C and 130C on the cap body 14C to be free of draft and
parting
lines. In the pour cap 10C, the neck 22C of the container 12C contacts the
sealing
surface 126C on the cap body 14C which seals against the inside diameter of
the neck
22C. As also shown in Figure 17, there needs to be a slight interference fit
between
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the second sealing surface 130C and the outside diameter of the neck 128C to
insure
constant contact between mating surfaces. This requirement can be achieved
using a
thin wall, made from easily malleable polyethylene material. With undersizing
of the
cap 10C, it can stretch over the neck 22C and over time, relax any stress that
occurred
due to the interference fit. Furthermore, polyethylene offers little friction
when
sliding against the container 12C, so that the interference fit will not cause
excessive
drag when screwing the cap 10C open and closed. Lastly, it should be noted
that
angled surfaces 132C are necessary to guide the interfering surfaces together
during
assembly.
[0062] Referring to Figure 18, an alternate embodiment pour cap 10D is
substantially similar to the pour cap 10 (Figure 1) or the pour cap 10A
(Figure 11). In
addition, the pour cap 10D includes a spout 126D formed on one or more pour
openings 44D on the pour cap 10D. The spout 126D allows a fluid, such as toxic
liquid, to be more easily poured from the pour cap 10D.
[0063] Referring to Figure 19, an alternate embodiment pour cap 10E is
substantially similar to the pour cap 10 (Figure 1) or the pour cap 10A
(Figure 11).
The alternate embodiment pour cap 10E has several improvements. Firstly, the
pour
openings 44E are positioned on the uppermost portion, or on the crests of the
cap
body 14E, so only a glance is required to orient the cap 10E to a drinking
position.
The cap 10E is perfectly round which requires a search for the location of the
pour
openings 44E before orienting to one's lips. Secondly, there is a greater
distance
between the pour openings 44E and the gasket 16E so fluid flows back into the
container 12 (Figure 1) with a greater momentum to counter act meniscus forces
that
can cause the fluid to collect in the narrow gaps between the gasket 16E and
the cap
body 14E. Thirdly, there is a greater volume of empty space (gas) above the
gasket
16E to absorb a pressure pulse when a pressurized container 12 (Figure 1) is
quickly
opened. Pressure can occur in a container 12 (Figure 1) due to carbonation, or
when
the fluid is heated after the cap 10E has been placed in the closed position.
Fourthly,
the cap body 14E includes a ridge 136E that straightens the top edge of the
gasket
16E if the cap 10E is not on a container, and the gasket 16E is pushed upward
within
the cap body 14E. A chamfer 134E on the o-ring features of the gasket 16E also
help
to guide the gasket 16E smoothly into the inside diameter of the container
neck.
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[0064] Thus the disclosure describes an improved pour cap for fluid
containers and an improved method for pouring fluids from containers. While
the
description has been with reference to certain preferred embodiments, as will
be
apparent to those skilled in the art, certain changes and modifications can be
made
without departing from the scope of the following claims.
