Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
2058874
-- 1 --
DISPENSING CLOSURE WITH
PRESSURE-ACTUATED FLEXIBLE VALVE
CROSS REFERENCE TO REL~TED APPLICATION
This is a continuation-in-part application of
co-pending U.S.A. patent application Serial No.
07~641,456 filed on January 14, 1991 by Robert D. Rohr
and John Miller Hess III.
TECHNICAL FIELD
This invention relates ts container closures,
and more particularly to a squeeze-type container
dispensing closure which opens to dispense a fluid
product from the container when the container is
sgueezed and which automatically closes when the
squeezing pressure is released.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
AND
TECHNICAL PROBLEMS POSED BY THE PRIOR ART
A variety of pacXages, including dispensing
packages or containers, have been developed for personal
care products such as shampoo, lotions, etc., as well as
'or other fluid materials. Closures for these types of
containers typically have a flexible, self-sealing,
slit-type dispensing valve mounted over the container
opening. When the container is squeezed, the fluid
contents of the container are discharged through the
valve.
While closures used for such packages may
function generally satisfactorily, there is a need for
an improved closure which can be more easily
manu~actured and asse~bled with reduced manufacturing
costs.
Also, it would be advantageous if such an
improved closure could be provided with a design that
would accommodate high speed, high quantity ;
2~87~
- 2 -
manufacturing techniques with a reduced product reject
rate.
With some conventional designs, there is a
danger that the flexible, sel~-sealing, dispensing valve
may be partially or completely dislodged from the
container closure. This would permit the container
contents to spill out. Also, there is a danger that a
small child might attempt to swallow the loose valve.
In view of these potential problems, it would be
desirable to provide a closure ~3~ign having an improved
valve sealinq and retention capability.
In addition, it would be beneficial if the
design of such an improved closure could accommodate use
of the closure with a variety of conventional containers
having a variety of conventional container finishes,
such as conventional threaded and snap-fit attachment
configurations.
SUNMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a dispensing
closure suitable for an opening in a squeeze-type
ontainer. The closure includes a body for attachment
to the container at the container opening to define a
dispensing passage for communicating between the
container interior and exterior through the container
opening.
Carried within the body is a flexible, self-
sealing valve of the type which opens in response to
increased container pressure. The valve is disposed in
the body across the dispensing passage.
The closure includes one or more unique
features. One feature is a retaining means for
retaining the valve in the body. In one preferred
embodiment, this includes a peripheral flange on the
valve which is oriented to define a central plane
generally transverse to the discharge passage. The
20~8~7~
- 3 -
thickness of the flange normal to the plane is greater
at the peripheral radial edge of the flange than
inwardly thereof. The flange defines first and second
engagement surfaces symmetrically arranged on opposite
sides of the central plane.
First and second spaced-apart clamping members
are provided on the closure body to extend peripherally
around at least a portion of the dispensing passage.
The first and second clamping members define generally
opposed, spaced-apart first and second clamping
surfaces, respectively, for clamping the valve flange
engagement surfaces. The spacing between the clamping
surfaces is less at a location adjacent the dispensing
passage than at a location outwardly therefrom. The
clamping surfaces are symmetrically arranged on opposite
sides of the valve flange central plane.
Another feature which may be optionally
included in the closure is a structural configuration
that prevents "doming" or upwardly convex distortion of
the closure when it is applied to the container. Such
distortion may, if not minimized or controlled, lead to
inadequate retention of the valve and/or looseness of
the valve in the closure. In an extreme case, the valve
might even be expelled from the closure during use.
To overcome this problem, the valve closure
body is provided with a skirt for securing the body to
the container. The body has an annular top wall
extending inwardly from the s~irt to define the
dispensing passage and to define a means, such as a
collar, for receiving the valve. The body includes
flexure means for permitting outward displacement of the
valve receiving means with a minimum of distortion. The
flexure means includes an annular channel in the top
wall located radially outwardly of the valve receiving
means and opening upwardly to define a reduced thickness
20~8874
section of the top wall so as to accommodate elongation
of the section when the top wall is engaged by the
container to which the body is secured. This permits
the top wall to be moved upwardly in a generally planar
configuration without bulging.
Another feature which may optionally be
included in the closure is a structure for insuring the
sealing of the valve when it is not being used to
dispense the contents from the container. In
particular, the closure includes a valve having a
flexible central wall disposed across at least a portion
of the dispensing passage and defining at least one
normally closed dispensing slit.
The body includes a support member spaced
below the valve central wall. Further, a lid is
provided for being disposed on the body in a closed
position over the valve. The lid includes an annular
sealing collar for engaging the valve central wall at a
location radially outwardly of the dispensing slit so as
to force the valve central wall against the support
mem~er to seal the valve closed around the slit.
Another optional feature which may be included
in the closure relates to an improved valve retention
structure. The valve is provided with a peripheral,
flexible flange, and first and second spaced-apart
clamping members on the body extend peripherally around
at least a portion of the discharge passage to clamp the
valve flange. The first and second clamping members
define generally opposed, spaced-apart first and second
clamping surfaces for clamping the valve flange. ~t
least one of the clamping surfaces includes a projecting
protrusion, such as a spike, or plurality of spikes, to
aid in retaining the valve flange between the clamping
members.
2~887~
Another optional valve retention structure
that may be provided in the closure also requires the
valve to have a peripheral flange. The closure body
defines the seat for receiving the valve flange and
defines a cylindrical wall or collar around the valve
seat to surround the periphery of the valve flange and
to receive a novel retaining ring. The ring is attached
to a part of the closure body such as the collar. The
ring engages the valve flange and retains the valve in
the closure body. Various embodiments of the retaining
ring have one or more of the following novel features:
(a) a clamping surface for engaging the
valve flange wherein the clamping surface lies at an
oblique angle to a plane oriented transversely of the
dispensing passage;
(b) a clamping surface with a plurality
of spaced-apart protrusions;
(c) a clamping surface adapted to face
the container and having at least one gripping ring;
(d) a channel for engaging an end of the
collar in a snap-fit engagement; and
(e) a snap-fit engagement with the
collar on the outer side of the valve flange relative to
the container interior.
Numerous other advankages and features of
the present invention will become readily apparent from
the following detailed description of the invention,
from the claims, and from the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In the accompanying drawings forming part of
the specification, in which like numerals are employed
~o designate like parts throughout the same, -
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one form of a
closure of the present invention showing an optional lid
in a closed position on the closure;
2~87~
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the closure in
FIG. 1 shown with the lid in an open position:
FIG. 3 is a vi~w similar to FIG. 2, but
showing the internal components in an exploded,
perspective arrangement;
FIG. 4 is a greatly enlarged, fragmentary,
cross-sectional view taken generally along the plane 4-4
in FIG. l;
FIG. 5 is a greatly enlarged, cross-sectional
view taken generally along the plane 5-5 in FIG. 2:
FIG. 6 is a greatly enlarged, fragmentary,
plan view of the underside of the closure lid taken
generally along the plane 6-6 in FIG. 2;
FIG. 7 is a greatly enlarged, fragmentary,
plan view of the closure body taken generally along the
plane 7-7 in FIG. 3;
FIG. 8 is a greatly enlarged, cross-sectional
view of the insert ring taken generally along the ~lane
8-8 in FIG. 3;
FIG. 9 is a plan view taken generally along
the plane 9-9 in FIG. 8;
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view similar to
FIG. 5, but showing a defective design of a closure body
without a valve and retaining ring;
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view similar to
FIG. 5, but with the valve removed, and the right-hand
side of FIG. 11 illustrates, in phantom lines, the
orientation of the closure before it is fully assembled
on a container while the left-hand side of FIG. 11
illustrates, in solid lines, the final orientation of
the closure when fully assembled on the container;
FIG. 12 is a view similar to FIG. 4, but
showing a second embodiment of the closure;
FIG. 13 is a view similar to FIG. 12, but
showing a third embodiment of the closure;
2~8874
FIG. 14 is a view similar to FIG. 13, but
showing a fourth embodiment of the closure;
FIG. 15 is a plan view of an insert ring for
the closure illustrated in FIG. 14;
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken
generally along the plane 16-16 in FIG. 15;
FIG. 17 is a view similar to FIG. 14, but
showing a fifth embodiment of the closure;
FIG. 18 is a fragmentary, cross-sectional view
taken generally along the plane 18-18 in FIG. l9 and
showing a sixth embodiment of the closure with the valve
and lid removed for purposes of illustrating interior
details;
FIG. 19 is a fragmentary, plan view of the
body of the closure shown in FIG. 18;
FIG. 20 is a view similar to FIG. 18, but
showing the closure body assembled with the valve,
retaining ring, and closure lid;
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the interior
of the lid of the closure illustrated in FIG. 20;
FIG. 22 is a plan view of the underside of
another embodiment of an insert ring that may be
incorporated in an embodiment of the closure of the
present invention;
FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken
generally along the plane 23-23 in FIG. 22;
FIG. 24 is a fragmentary, plan view of the
body of a seventh embodiment of the closure of the
present invention shown with the valve and lid removed
to illustrate interior details;
FIG. 25 is a ~ragmentary, cross-sectional view
taken generally along the plane 25-25 in FIG. 24;
FIG. 26 is a plan view of an embodiment of an
insert ring that may be employed with the closure body
illustrated in FIGS. 24 and 25;
21D~887~
FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view taken
generally along the plane 27-27 in FIG. 26;
FIG. 28 is a fragmentary, plan view of the
insert ring taken along the plane 28-28 in FIG. 27;
FI~. 29 is a plan view of another embodiment
~f an insert ring which may be employed in the closure
body illustrated in FIGS. 24 and 25;
FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view taken
generally along the plane 30-30 in FIG. 29;
FIG. 31 is a perspective view of another, and
preferred, embodiment of the closure of the present
invention showing the closure body and lid in the as
molded orientation and showing the internal components
in an exploded, perspective arrangement,
FIG. 32 is an enlarged plan view of the
retaining member taken generally along the plane 32-32
in FIG. 31;
FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view taken
generally along the plane 33-33 in FIG. 31 but showing
the lid in a fully opened position; and
FIG. 33A is a greatly enlarged, fragmentary,
cross-sectional view of the valve flange clamping region
shown in FIG. 33;
FIG. 34 is a view similar to FIG. 33 but
showing the lid fully closed.
DESCRIPTION ~F THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
While this invention is susceptible of
embodiment in many different forms, this specification
and the accompanying drawings disclose only some
specific forms as examples of the invention. The
invention is not intended to be limited to the
embodiments so described, and the scspe of the invention
will be pointed out in the appended claims.
For ease of description, the closure
of this invention is described in the normal (upright)
2 ~ 7 4
operating position, and terms such as upper, lower,
horizontal, etc., are used with reference to this
position. It will be understood, however, that the
closure of this invention may be manufactured, stored,
transported, used, and sold in an orientation other than
the position described.
With reference to the figures, a first
embodiment of the closure of the present invention is
illustrated in FIGS. 1-9 and 11 and is represented
generally in many of those figures by reference numeral
40. The closure 40 is adapted to be disposed on a
container, such as a container 42 (FIG. 11), which has a
conventional mouth or opening formed by a neck 44 or
other suitable structure. The closure 40 may be
~5 fabricated from a thermoplastic material, or other
materials, compatible with the container contents.
As best illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the closure
40 includes a housing, base, or body 50. In the
illustrated embodiment, the housing or body 50 includes
a peripheral wall in the form of a cylindrical skirt 52.
The skirt 52 includes, on its interior surface, a
conventional thread 54 or other suitable means (e.g.,
snap-fit bead (not illustrated)) for engaging suitable
cooperating means, such as a thread 56 (FIG. 11), on the
container neck 44 to releasably secure the body 50 to
the container 42 (FIG. 11).
In the first embodiment illustrated in FIGS.
1-9 and 11, the body 50 includes a top wall 58 (FIGS. 2,
4, 5, 7, and 11) which defines a divided dispensing
passage 62 as best illustrated in FIGS. 4, 5 and 7. The
dispensing passage 62 establishes communication between
the container interior and exterior through the
container opening defined by the container neck 44.
As best illustrated in FIG. 11, the body 50
includes an internal sealing ring 64 which projects
2~8~7~
-- 10 --
downwardly from the underside of the top wall 58 and
functions as a seal for protruding against or into the
container neck 44 for engaging a peripheral surface of
the neck 44 to effect a tight seal.
The closure body top wall 58 also includes a
central support member 68 wi~hin the dispensing aperture
62 for supporting a dispensing valve 70 as described in
more detail hereinafter.
The support member 68 has an upwardly facing
concave surface 74 (FIGS. 5 and 7) which is surrounded
by a flat, annular, peripheral surface 76. The support
member 68 is maintained in position within the
dispensing passage 62 by radially oriented arms 80 (FIG.
7) which extend from an annular seat or valve clamping
member 84 (FIGS. 3 and 4).
The upwardly facing surface of the seat or
clamping member 84 may be characterized as a seating
surface or clamping surface 112 for engaging the valve
70 as will be described in detail hereinafter.
The closure body top wall 58 also defines a
receiving means, such as an upwardly projecting,
generally cylindrical, collar 88, for receiving the
valve 70 and a retaining ring 90.
As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 5, the valve 70
includes a flexible central wall 92 which is disposed
across at least a portion of the dispensing passage in
the body 50. The valve central wall 92 defines at least
one normally closed dispensing slit 94. Preferably, two
such slits 94 are disposed at intersecting right angles
to form a cross shape. Each slit 94 extends completely
through the thickness of the central wall 92.
The valve central wall on 92 is surrounded by
generally cylindrical portion 96 from which extends a
flange 98. In the preferred form illustrated in the
first embodiment of the closure shown in FIGS. 1-9 and
20~874
11, the valve flange 98 has a cross-sectional shape as
viewed in FIG. 5 which may be characterized as a
"dovetail" shape.
When the valve 70 is disposed in the closure
body 50 in the dispensing passage 62, the valve
peripheral flange 98 is oriented to define a central
plane 100 (FIG. 5) that is generally transverse to the
discharge passage 62. The thickness of the flange
normal to the plane is greater at the peripheral radial
edge of the flange than inwardly thereof. The thickness
of the valve flange 98 may also be characterized as
decreasing with increasing distance from the flange
peripheral edge. The flange 98 defines first and second
engagement surfaces 101 and 102 which are symmetrically
orientéd on opposite sides of the central plane.
The insert ring so is adapted to be disposed
in the body collar 88 by means of a snap-fit engagement
as illustrated in FIG. 5. To this end, the collar 88
defines an annular channel or recess 106 for receiving
the ring 90. The ring 90 has a generally frustoconical
configuration in cross-section as illustrated in FIG. 5,
and the ring is symmetrical about a central plane
perpendicular to the ring axis. Thus, the ring 90 may be
mounted in the closure body collar 88 without regard to
a particular azimuthal orientation and without regard to
a particular upside down/right side up orientation.
When the insert ring 90 is mounted in the
collar 88 over the valve flange 98 as illustrated in
FIG. 5, the valve 70 is effectively retained in the
closure body 50. The first engagement surface 101 of
the valve flange 98 is clamped by the insert ring 90,
and the insert ring 90 may be defined as a first
clamping member having a first clamping surface 111
(FIG. 5) for contacting the valve flange surface 101.
2~887~
- 12 -
The first clamping suxface 111 is spaced from
the valve body second clamping surface 112. Both
clamping surfaces 111 and 112 are svmmetrically arranged
on opposite sides of the valve flange central plane 100
S (FIG. 5). The spacing between the clamping surfaces 111
and 112 is less at a location adjacent the dispensing
passage than at a location outwardly therefrom. That
is, the spacing between the clamping surfaces increases
with increasing distance from the dispensing passage.
Preferably, the surface profile of each
clamping surface 111 and 112 generally conforms to the
surface profile of the adjacent valve flange surface 101
and 102, respectively.
Preferably, the valve flange engagement
lS surfaces 101 and 102 diverge in a direction away from
the dispensing passage in a uniform manner, such as at
the constant taper angle illustrated. Similarly, the
spaced-apart clamping surfaces 111 and 112 also
preferably diverge in a direction away from the
dispensing passage in a uniform manner, such as at the
constant taper angle illustrated. Preferably, and
as illustrated in FIG. 5, the first clamping surface 111
on the retaining ring 90 has a frustoconical
configuration, and the second clamping surface 112 on
the closure body seat 84 also has a frustoconical
configuration.
The novel closure illustrated in FIGS. 1-9 and
11 provides a clampinq arrangement which securely holds
the valve 70 in the closure body without requiring
special internal support structures or bearing members
adjacent the interior ~urface of the valve cylindrical
portion 96. This permits the region adjacent the
interior surface of the cylindrical portion 96 to be
substantially open, free, and clear so as to minimize
2~87~
- 13 -
any restriction on the flow of the container contents
through the passage 62.
The valYe 70 functions in a well-known manner.
When the container 42 (FIG. 11) is subjected to external
forces, as when the container is squeezed to dispense
the contents, the fluid material in the container is
forced up against the valve 70 to temporarily deform the
valve central portion 92 whereby the fluid material is
discharged from the container through the slits 94.
When the application of external pressure on the
container is terminated, the inherent resilience of the
valve material causes the valve to return to its normal,
unstressed, closed orientation. Flexible, self-sealing
valves of this type are well-known in the art. For
example, see U.S. Patent Nos. 1,607,993, 1,82S,553,
2,802,607, 2,937,795 and 3,257,046.
The valve 70 may be fabricated from
thermoplastic materials, such as polypropylene,
polyethylene, copolyester elastomers, polyurethane,
various styrenes, and chlorinated olefins. It is also
contemplated that other materials may be used, such as
thermoset materials, including silicone, natural rubber,
and ethylene.
The closure may be provided with a lid 120.
The lid 120 may be a separate, unconnected component
which may be placed on, and removed from, the closure
body 50. Preferably, the lid 120 is mounted to an edge
of the closure body 50 as illustrated in FIG. 2. The
lid is adapted to be pivoted between (1) a closed
position (FIG. 1) over the closure top wzll 58 and valve
70 and (2) an open position spaced away from the top
wall 58 and valve 70 (FIG.-2).
In the preferred embodiment, the lid 120 is
connected to the closure body 50 by suitable means, such
as a snap-action hinge 124 as illustrated in FIG. 2.
20~8~74
- 14 -
Such a snap-action hinge 124 is formed integrally with
the closure housing 50 and lid 120. The illustrated
snap-action hinge 124 is a conventional type described
in U.S.A. Patent No. 4,403,712.
Preferably, the lid 120 and closure body are
molded as a unitary structure from suitable
thermoplastic materials, such as polypropylene or
polyethylene.
When the closure body is molded from
thermoplastic materials, the provision of the flat
annular surface 76 around the concave support member
surface 74 aids in the molding process. This eliminates
having to mold an acute angle at the peripheral edge of
the concave surface 74. Such a sharp angle is difficult
to mold and is more likely to break.
The use of the separate, snap-fit retaining
ring 90 accommodates the manufacture of the closure 40
and accommodates assembly of the components. In some
applications, it may be desireable to hold the retaining
ring 90 in a place in the closure body 50 by additional
or other means, such as sonic welding, adhesive bonding,
chemically fused bonding, or friction welding bonding.
In any case, it is preferable to provide a
reduced spacing between the ring 90 and the closure body
seat 84 inwardly from the peripheral edge of the valve
flange 98. This provides a reduced volume region and
requires substantially increased forces for valve
removal.
The valve retention capability of the closure
can be increased even further by providing at least one
projecting protrusion on one of the clampin~ surfaces.
For example, in the preferred embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 1-9 and 11, projecting protrusions in the form of
teeth or spikes 130 are circumferentially spaced-apart
on the closure body seat clamping surface 112.
2~8874
- 15 -
Additionally, the clamping surface 112 includes a
stepped ring or ridge of material 136. The protrusions,
such as teeth-like projections, spikes, and rings,
increase the retaining force because they become
embedded in the valve flange material or otherwise
deform the valve flange material. If desired, such
protrusions could be additionally or alternatively
provided on the clamping surface 111 that is defined by
the retaining ring 90.
When a closure is applied to a container (as
illustrated in FIG. 11), there is a potential for
distorting the closure and loosening the clamped valve
70. This potential problem is illustrated in FIG. 10
for a closure 40' that does not include a special
compensating structure provided by a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
In particular, with reference to FIG. 10, the
closure 40' is shown with the valve and retaining ring
removed from the closure body 50' which is threadingly
engaged with a container 42'. As the closure body 50'
engages the top end surface of the neck of the container -
42', the closure body top wall 58' begins to be pushed
upwardly so as to bow upwardly or "dome".
Because the closure top wall 58' is connected
about its outer periphery to the side wall or skirt of
the closure body 50', the top wall 58' moves upwardly a
greater amount at locations radially inwardly from the
periphery of the closure body than it does at the outer
periphery of the closure body. This "doming" phenomenon
causes the collar 88' to be expanded radially outwardly
as indicated by the angle A in FIG. 10. This results in
the diameter of the collar 88' increasing at the
retaining ring receiving recess 106'. As a consequence,
the retaining ring (not illustrated) may become loose
and may even be forced out of the collar 88'. This
20~8~74
- 16 -
would permit the valve (not illustrated) to be expelled
from the closure.
A feature of the preferred embodiment of the
present invention functions to overcome the "doming"
tendency of the closure body 50 when it is applied to a
container 42 as illustrated in FIG. 11. Specifically,
an annular channel 140 is defined in the top wall 58
radially outwardly of the collar 88. Preferably, the
channel 140 has a V-shaped cross-section and opens
upwardly around the collar 88 to define a reduced
thickness section in the top wall. This accommodates
elongation of the section when the top wall 58 is
engaged by the end of the container neck.
The right-hand side of FIG. 11 illustrates (in
phantom) the position of the container top wall 58 prior
to engagement of the top wall 58 by the top of the
container neck 44. In this position, before the closure
40 is fully threaded onto the container neck 44, the
reduced cross-sectional thickness of the top wall 58
below the annular channel 140 is substantially
unstressed and undeformed.
However, when the upper end of the container
neck 44 engages the closure top wall (at seal 64 on the
top wall 58) as illustrated in solid lines in the left-
hand side of FIG. 11, the portion of the top wall 58radially inwardly of the annular channel 140 is moved
upwardly with considerably less "doming" because the
reduced thickness section below the channel 140 can
deform and elongate. This acts as a flexure means or
hinge means to some extent.
The portion of the top wall 58 radially
inwardly of the channel 140 is thus pushed up with
considerably less distortion, and the collar 88 tends to
remain in the oriqinal, unstressed, vertical
orientation. This means that the diameter of the ring
2~5887~
receiving recess 106 of the collar 88 remains
substantially unchanged as the closure is tightly
engaged with the container neck. As a result, the valve
70 will remain properly retained within the closure 40.
Another feature of the preferred embodiment of
the closure of the present invention prevents
inadvertent discharge or leakage of the container
contents out of the closure. This feature relies on a
unique cooperation between the closure lid 120, the
valve 70, and the support member 68.
Specifically, the closure lid 120, as best
illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 6, includes an annular
sealing collar 160 for engaging the valve central wall
92 when the lid 120 is closed as illustrated in FIG. 4.
The collar 160 forces the valve central wall 92 against
the closure body support member 68 so as to seal the
valve closed around the slits 94 ~FIGS. 2 and 3).
Preferably, the lid 120 also includes an outer
annular sleeve 170 that is shorter than the annular
sealing collar 160. The lid 120 further includes lugs
172 which are circumferentially spaced apart around the
inner periphery of the lid sleeve 170. The lugs 172 are
unitary with the lid sleeve 170, and each lug 172 has an
end surface that is coplaner with the sleeve end
surface.
The lugs 172 and sleeve 170 function to force
a peripheral, annular flat surface 178 of the valve 70
downwardly when the lid is closed (FIG. 4). This helps
to deform the valve central wall 92 downwardly to
conform with the support member 68 so that the valve
slits 94 are effectively sealed within the annular
sealing collar 160.
Further, to ensure that the sealing collar 160
effectively engages the valve central wall 92, the
sealing collar 160 preferably has a frus~oconical end
20~8874
- 18 -
surface 180. The frustoconicai end surface 180 defines
an angle that is equal to the angle of a line tangent to
the support member concave surface 74 at a point axially
aligned with a selected point on the end surface 180
when the lid is closed.
When the closure lid 120 is open, the valve
70, owing to its inherent resiliency, returns to its
original, unstressed configuration (FIG. 5). In that
configuration, the valve central wall 9~ is spaced
upwardly from the support member concave surface 74, and
the valve cylindrical portion 96 assumes its original,
unstressed cylindrical configuration. In this
configuration, the contents of the container may pass up
through the dispensing passage 62 and out through the
valve 92 when the pressure of the liquid is sufficient
to overcome the resilient closure forces of 'he valve
70.
FIGS. 12-30 illustrate other optional features
of the present invention which may be employed in place
of some of the previously described structures. FIGS.
12-14, 17, and 20 illustrate embodiments in which
various, self-sealing, flanged valves are employed. The
flanged valves are generally illustrated in simplified
cross-sectional views to show the overall cross-
sectional configurations. The particular valve internal
configurations, wall thicknesses, curvatures of the
valve central wall portions, etc. may be of any suitable
design consistent with the valve mounting flange
structure that is illustrated.
FIG. 12 illustrates a second embodiment of the
invention wherein the closure body includes a top wall
58A defining the dispensing passage 62A. No valve
support member, such as valve support member 68 shown in
FIG. 3, is provided in this embodiment.
20~8874
-- 19 --
The closure body top wall 58A includes a
generally cylindrical collar 88A for receiving a self-
sealing valve 70A. The valve 70A includes a peripheral,
generally planar, flange s8A which is seated on an
upwardly facing surface 112A on the body clamping member
or seat 84A. The clamping surface 112A preferably
includes protrusions 130A, and these protrusions 130A
may be spikes, teeth, or annular rings having a sharp
edge for gripping the valve flange 98A.
The upper end of the collar 88A is provided
with a radially inwardly extending bead 89A and with a
radially outwardly extending bead 91A. A retaining ring
90A is provided with a channel 93A for mating with the
collar beads 89A and 91A to form a snap-fit engagement
between the retaining ring 90A and the collar 88A.
A radially inwardly extending portion of the
ring 90A functions as a clamping member defining a
downwardly facing clamping surface lllA. The clamping
surface lllA preferably includes protrusions 115A which
may be in the form of teeth, spikes or sharp annular
rings for engaging the valve flange 98A.
A separate or attached lid 120A is provided,
if desired, for covering the valve 70A as well as the
retaining ring 90A and closure body top wall 58A. The
lid 120A has an annular sealing ring or spud 160A for
sealing against the valve flange 98A.
A third embodiment of the closure is
illustrated in FIG. 13. The closure body has a top wall
58B defining a dispensing passage 62B and defining an
upstanding, generally cylindrical collar 88B. The body
top wall 58B has a clamping member 84B with a clamping
surface 112B defining protrusions 30B for engaging a
flange 98B of a self-sealing valve 70B. The upper end
of the collar 88B defines a radially outw~rdly
projecting bead 91B.
2~5~874
-- 20 --
A retaining ring sos is proYided with a
channel s3B for forming a snap-fit engagement with the
collar 88B. The retaining riny 90B has a radially
inwardly projecting clamping member defining a
downwardly facing clamping surface lllB.
A cover or lid 120B can be provided as a
separate component or may be provided as a component
that is hingedly attached to the closure body. The lid
120B has an annular sealing ring or spud 160B for
sealing against the exterior peripheral surface of the
. retainer ring 90B.
A fourth embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 14-16
employs an annular segment as a retaining ring 90C. The
segment ring 90C is sufficiently flexible to permit it
to be inserted past a bead 107C defined by the closure
body top wall 58C around the dispensing passage 62C.
The ring 90C is sufficiently resilient to remain engaged
above the bead 107C when subjected to downwardly
directed reaction forces.
The closure body top wall 58C has a generally
cylindrical collar 88C with a radially inwardly
projecting clamping member 84C.
A self-sealing valve 70C is provided with a
mounting flange 98C which is clamped between the ring
90C and the clamping member 84C. The clamping member
84C defines a seating surface 112C which functions as a
clamping surface, and the ring 90C defines a clamping
surface lllC. The clamping surface lllC of the ring 90C
includes three circular arc gripping rings 115C. The
clamping surface 112C includes a protrusion 130C which
may be in the form of a gripping ring, teeth, or spikes.
Although not illustrated, the closure may
include a lid similar to the lid 120B illustrated in
FIG. 13.
2058874
- 21 -
~ fifth embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 17
wherein a self-sealing valve 70D is provided with a
peripheral ~lange 98D. The flange 98D has an axial
cross-section in the shape of a diverging dovetail
configurationO The valve flange 98D is carried on the
valve closure body top wall 58D in a cylindrical collar
88D. The bottom of the flange 98D is disposed on an
inwardly projecting lower clamping meMber 84D whi~h
defines a frustoconical seating and clamping surface
112D.
A retaining ring 90D is provided with a
channel 93D for receiving the cylindrical collar 88D.
The retaining ring soD may be sonically welded to the
collar 88D. The retaining ring 90D includes an inwardly
extending clamping member having a downwardly facing
frostoconical clamping surface lllD. The clamping
surfaces 84D and lllD diverge with increasing radial
distance from a dispensing passage 62D defined by the
body top wall 58D.
A lid 120D may be provided if desired as a
separate or integral part of the closure.
Further, the clamping surfaces lllD and 112D
may be provided with protrusions, such as teeth, spikes,
or rings for gripping the valve flange 98D.
A sixth embodiment of a closure body is
illustrated in FIGS. 18-21 wherein the closure body
includes a top wall 58E defining an interrupted
dispensing passage 62E (FIG. 19). The top wall 58E
includes a central support member 68E which is
maintained in the dispensing passage 62E by arms 80E.
The closure body top wall 58E includes a lower
clamping member 84E defining an frustoconical clamping
surface 112D that functions as the lower seat for a
peripheral mounting flange 98E of a self-sealing valve
70E.
20~8874
- 22 -
The closure body top wall 58E includes a
cylindrical collar 88E having an outwardly directed bead
91E. A retaining ring 90E (FIG. 20) is provided with a
channel 93E for conforming to the collar 88E and being
mounted thereon in a snap-fit engagement to retain the
valve 70E in the closure body. The body top wall 5~E
also defines an annular channel 97E (FIGS. 18 and 20)
for receiving the lower portion of the wall of the ring
90E. This prevents the ring 90E from being pried off
with a fingernail or tool.
A novel lid 120E is provided for covering the
closure body top wall 58E, valve 70E, and retaining ring
90E. As illustrated in FIGS. 20 and 21, the lid 120E
includes a sleeve 170E for engaging the exterior of a
cylindrical portion 96E of the valve 70E. Further, the
lid 120E includes a plurality of downwardly extending
lugs 172E which define a spoke-like configuration and
which are adapted to engage the top surface of the valve
70E.
The lid 120E may be a separate, removeable
component or may be attached to the closure body by a
suitable hinge structure. In any event, when the lid
120E is properly closed over the valve 70E (FIG. 20),
the side of the valve cylindrical portion 96E is sealed
by the lid sleeve 170E, and the upper surface of the
valve 70E is restrained against outward deformation by
the lugs 172E.
The self-sealing valve 70E includes a
conventional dispensing structure, such as a slit or
slits (not illustrated). However, the opening of the
valve in the outward direction will be substantially
restrained by the lid lugs 172E. Further, any leakage
through the valve 70E will be retained within the lid by
sleeve 170E.
2~8g74
- 23 -
When the lid 120E is closed over the valve
70E, the bottom of the valve 70E is spaced above the
closure body support member 68E. When lid 120E is
removed, and the closure is used for disp~nsing, the
support member 68E prevents an inadvertent impact on the
valve 70E from forcing the ~alve 70E too far inwardly
into the closure. Further, depending upon the exact
con~iguration of the self-sealing valve 70E that is
selected, the valve 70E may also be maintained in a
downwardly deformed position against the support member
68E when the lid 120E is in the closed position. In
that situation, the closed position deformation of the
valve 70E would be analogous to that which occurs with
respect to the embodiment of the closure 40 illustrated
in FIG. 4 and discussed above in detail.
An alternate form of a retaining ring that can
be employed in place of the retaining ring 90E in FIG.
20 is illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23 and is designated
therein generally by the reference numeral 90F. The
ring 90F includes a channel 93F for accommodating the
snap-fit engagement with the closure body collar 88E.
The retaining ring 90F further includes a radially
inwardly extending alamping member defining a downwardly
directed clamping surface lllF. The clamping surface
lllF includes a plurality of teeth or spikes 115F. As
best illustrated in FIG. 22, the spikes 115F are
arranged in two concentric circles. In each circle, the
spikes 115F are circumferentially spaced apart. The
spikes 115F in the outer circle are offset relative to
the spikes 115F in the inner circle.
A seventh embodiment of a closure is
illustrated in FIGS. 24 and 25 wherein the body top wall
is designated generally by the reference numeral 58G.
The top wall 58G is adapted to receive a suitable, self-
2~874
sealing, flanged, dispensing valve (not illustrated),
such as the valve 70E illustrated in FIG. 20.
The central portion of the top wall 58G is
similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 19 and
includes an interrupted or divided dispensing passage
62G through which a liquid can be dispensed around a
central support member 68G. The support member 68G is
joined to a lower clamping member 84G by arms 80G. The
lower clamping member 84G defines an upwardly facing
clamping surface 112G for engaging the underside of the
self-sealing valve flange (not illustrated).
The enclosure body top wall 58G includes a
generally cylindrical collar 88G which is adapted to
receive the self-sealing valve. The collar 88G defines
an inwardly open channel 106G for receiving a suitable
retaining ring.
A first alternate form of a suitable retaining
ring 90G is illustrated in FIGS. 27-28, and a second
alternate form of a retaining ring 90H is illustrated in
FIGS. 29 and 30. The ring 90G has a plurality of
circumferentially spaced-apart stiffening lugs 97G on
the inside of the ring. The outside of the ring 90G
includes a bead 99G for being received in the closure
body collar channel 106G in a snap-fit engagement.
The retaining ring 90G has a lower,
frustoconical, clamping surface lllG. Spikes or teeth
115G project downwardly from the surface lllG for
engaging the valve flange. As best illustrated in FIG.
28, the teeth 115G are in a staggered relationship.
This relationship may be alternatively described as
defining two, concentric circles of spaced-apart spikes.
The concentric circles of spikes are azimuthally
oriented so that each spike on the inner circle is
equidistant from two adjacent spikes on the outer
circle.
2~887~
-- 25 --
The alternate form oP the ring soH illustrated
in FIGS. 29 and 30 is symmetrical about a central plane
passing through the ring and oriented perpendicular to
the longitudinal axis of the ring. Because of this,
either side of the ring may be positioned to engage the
valve flange. Each side of the ring defines a
frustoconical surface lllH, and the peripheral edge of
the ring defines a bead 99H for being received in the
closure body collar recess 106G (FIG. 25) in a snap-fit
engagement. The ring 90H does not have protrusions,
such as spikes or retaining rings, but such protrusions
could be provided if desired.
In all of the above discussed embodiments
where it is a desired to provide protrusions on the
clamping surfaces of the retaining ring and/or the
closure body top wall seat, the protrusion may be
provided in the form of an elongate member (e.g., tooth
or spike~ bent over near its base so as to extend
generally radially outwardly relative to the dispensing
passage and generally parallel to the engagement surface
of the valve flange. With such an arrangement, forces
tending to pull the valve flange inwardly and upwardly
out of the closure body will cause the "bent over"
spikes to engage the flange and be forced radially
inwardly. This would tend to urge the spikes to pivot
away from the "bent over'i position toward a vertical
position. This would increase the engagement between
the spikes and the valve flange and contribute to
increased reaction forces for retaining the valve
flange.
The presently contemplated preferred
embodiment of the closure of the present invention is
illustrated in FIGS. 31-34 and is represented generally
in those figures by reference-numeral 40J. The closure
40J is adapted to be disposed on a container (not
20~887~
- 26 -
illustrated) which has a conventional mouth or opening
formed by a neck or other suitable structure. The
closure 40J may be fabricated from a thermoplastic
material, or other materials, compati~le with the
container contents.
The closure 40J includes a housing, base, or
body 50J. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing or
body 50J includes a peripheral wall in the form of an
oval skirt 52J.
The body 50J includes a downwardly depending
collar 51J (FIGS. 33 and 34). The interior surface of
the collar 51J has a conventional snap-fit bead 54J or
other suitable means (e.g., a thread (not illustrated))
for engaging suitable cooperating means, such as an
annular groove (not illustrated) that is typically
provided on the container neck to releasably secure the
body 50J to the container.
The body 50J includes a top wall 58J ~FIG. 31)
which defines a dispensing passage 62J (FIG. 31). The
dispensing passage 62J establishes communication between
the container interior and exterior through the
container opening defined by the container neck.
The closure body top wall 58J also includes a
first clamping member in the form of an inner flange 59J
around the dispensing aperture 62J for clamping a soft,
resilient, dispensing valve 70J as described in more
detail hereinafter. The first clamping member or flange
59J has a first, downwardly facing clamping surface
lllJ. The clamping surface lllJ may be characterized as
a seating surface and preferably includes protrusions in
the form of sharp annular rings 115J. In a preferred
embodiment, there are two concentric rings 115J of
identical cross section which each have a projection
height in the range of about 0.007 inch to about 0.012
inch. The transverse cross-sectional profile of each
2~8~74
- 27 ~
ring is a 30-60-90 triangle in which the 60 angle is
defined at the outwardly projecting end of the ring.
As illustrated in FIGS. 31 and 33, the
dispensing valve 70J is mounte~ in the closure body 50J.
The valve 70J is substantially identical to the valve 70
discussed above with reference to the first embodiment
illustrated in FIGS. 1-9 and 11. Specifically, the
valve 70J includes a flexible central wall 92J which is
disposed across at least a portion of the dispensing lO passage 62J in the body 50J. The valve central wall 92J
defines at least one normally closed dispensing slit
94J. Preferably, two such slits 94J are disposed at
intersecting right angles to form a cross shape. Each
slit 94J extends completely through the thickness of the
central wall 92J.
The valve central wall 92J is surrounded by
generally cylindrical portion 96J from which extends a
flange 98J. In the preferred form, the valve flange 98J
has a cross-sectional shape, as viewed in FIG. 33A,
which may be characterized as a "dovetail" shape.
When the valve 70J is disposed in the closure
body 50J in the dispensing passage 62J, the valve
peripheral flange 98J is oriented to define a central
plane lOOJ (FIG. 33A) that is generally transverse to
the discharge passage 62J. The thickness of the flange
98J normal to the plane is greater at the peripheral
radial edge of the flange than inwardly thereof. The
thickness of the valve flange 98J may also be
characterized as decreasing with increasing distance
from the flange peripheral edge. The flange 98J defines
first and second engagement surfaces lOlJ and 102J which
are symmetrically oriented on opposite sides of the
central plane lOOJ. Preferably, the first and second
engagement surfaces lOlJ and 102J are each oriented at
about a 22 angle relative to the central plane lOOJ.
2~87~
- 28 -
A second clamping member in the form of an
insert retaining ring 90J is adapted to be disposed in
the body collar 51J by means of a snap-fit engagement as
illustrated in FIG. 33A. To this end, the collar 51J
defines an annular channel or recess 106J for receiving
the ring 90. The ring 90J includes a peripheral flange
99J which is shaped to be received in, and mate with,
the collar annular channel 106J. To aid in assembly,
the flange 99J is preferably somewhat resilient to
facilitate insertion of the ring 90J into the closure
body collar 51J.
The ring 90J includes a generally cylindrical,
internal, sealing ring or collar 64J which projects
downwardly from the underside of the ring 90J and
functions as a seal for protruding against or into the
neck of the container (not illustrated). The collar 64J
engages a peripheral surface of the container neck to
effect a tight seal.
The ring 90J has a clamping wall or member 84J
(FIG. 33A) which extends between the outer flange 99J
and the inner collar 64J. The upwardly facing surface
of the wall or member 84J may be characterized as a
seating surface or second clamping surface 112J for
engaging the valve 70J as will be described in detail
hereinafter.
Preferably, upwardly projecting protrusions in
the form of teeth or spikes 130J are circumferentially
spaced-apart in the clamping surface 112J. In the
presently contemplated preferred embodiment, twelve such
spikes 130J are equally spaced around the annular
clamping surface 112J. Each spike has a height in the
- range of about 0.007 inch to about 0.012 inch.
Also, a ring 131J is preferably provided
inwardly of the spikes 130J. The ring 131J preferably
has the same cross-sectional configuration and cross-
2~8874
- 29 -
sectional dimensions as the rings 115J on the body first
clamping surface lllJ. In a presently contemplated
product, the diameter of the inner ring 115J is about
0.562 inch, the diameter of the outer ring 115Jis about
0.626 inch, the diameter of the second clamping surface
ring 131Jis about 0. 559 inch, and the upwardly
projecting teeth 130J are arranged in a circle having a
diameter of about 0.623 inch.
The insert ring 9oJis symmetrical around its
~ 10 vertical axis and may thus be mounted in the closure
body collar 51J without regard to a particular azimuthal
orientation. When the insert ring 90J is mounted in the
collar 51J under the valve flange 98J as illustrated in
FIG. 33A, the valve 70J is effectively retained in the
closure body 50J. The first engagement surface lOlJ of
the valve flange 98Jis clamped by the closure body
first clamping surface lllJ. The second engagement
surface 102J of the valve flange 98Jis clamped by the
second clamping surface 112J of the insert ring 90J
The first clamping surface lllJ is spaced from
the second clamping surface 112J. Both clamping
surfaces lllJ and 112J are symmetrically arranged on
opposite sides of the valve flange central plane lOOJ
(FIG. 33A). The spacing between the clamping surfaces
lllJ and 112Jis less at a location adjacent the
dispensing passage than at a location outwardly
therefrom. That is, the spacing between the clamping
surfaces increases with increasing distance from the
dispensing passage.
Preferably, the surface profile of each
clamping surface lllJ and 112J generally conforms to the
surface profile of the adjacent valve flange engagement
surfaces lOlJ and 102J, respectively. It is preferred
that the valve flange engagement surfaces lOlJ and 102J
diverge in a direction away from the dispensing passage
20~8g74
- 30 -
in a uniform manner, such as at the constant taper angle
illustrated (about 22 rela~ive to the plane lOOJ for
the presently contemplated preferred embodiment).
Similarly, the spaced-apart clamping surfaces lllJ and
112J also preferably diverge in a direction away from
the dispensing passage in a uniform manner, such as at
the constant taper angle illustrated (about 22 relative
to the plane lOOJ for the presently contemplated
preferred embodiment). Thus, as illustrated in FI~.
~ 10 33A, the first clamping surface lllJ and the second
clamping surface 112J each have a frustoconical
configuration.
The novel closure illustrated in FIGS. 31-34
provides a clamping arrangement which securely holds the
valve 70J in the closure body without requiring special
internal support structures or bearing members adjacent
the interior surface of the valve cylindrical portion
96J. This permits the region adjacent the interior
surface of the cylindrical portion 96J to be
substantially open, free, and clear so as to minimize
any restriction on the flow of the container contents
through the passage 62J.
A novel valve support system is provided by
the insert ring 90J. In particular, as shown in FIGS.
32 and 33, the support ring 90J includes a central
support member 68J within the dispensing aperture of the
closure body. The support member 68J has an upwardly
facing concave surface 74J which is surrounded by a
flat, annular, peripheral surface 76J. The support
member 68J is connected with the ring inner collar 64J
by radially oriented arms 80J.
The valve 70J functions in the same manner as
the valve 70 described above with reference to the first
embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-9 and 11. The valve
70J may be fabricated from the same materials discussed
2~58~7~
- 31 -
with reference to the valve 70 used in the first
embodiment.
The closure 40J is preferably provided with a
lid 120J. The lid 120J may be a separate, unconnected
component which may be placed on, and removed from, the
closure body 50J. Preferably, the lid 120J is mounted
to an edge of the closure body 50J as illustrated in
FIG. 31. The lid 120Jis adapted to be pivoted between
(1) a closed position (FIG. 34) over the ~losure top
wall 58J and valve 70J and (2) an open position spaced
away from the top wall 58J and valve 70J (FIG. 33).
Preferably, the lid 120J and closure body 50J
are molded as a unitary structure from suitable
thermoplastic materials, such as polypropylene or
polyethylene. In the preferred embodiment, the lid 120J
is connected to the closure body 50J by suitable means,
such as a conventional living, film hinge 124J as
illustratad in FIGS. 33 and 34. Such a hinge 124J is
formed integrally with the closure housing 50J and lid
120J.
The lid 120J can be held or maintained in the
fully opened position illustrated in FIG. 33 by means of
an interference fit. Specifically, the closure body
sXirt 52J includes a recess 123J which is open to the
exterior surface of the skirt. The lid 120J includes a
suitable projec:tion 125J which can be forced into the
slot 123J when the lid 120Jis in the fully opened
position as illustrated in FIG. 33. The walls of the
slot 123J and/or the projection 125J have a sufficient
resiliency to accommodate an interference fit. Thus,
when t~e lid 120J is fully opened as illustrated in FIG.
33, the container can be inverted to dispense the
contents, and the lid 120Jwill not fall forward into
the dispensing stream.
20~8874
- 32 -
A feature of the preferred embodiment of the
closure of the present invention prevents inadvertent
discharge or leakage of the container contents out of
the closure. This feature relies on a.unique
cooperation between the closure lid 120J, the valve 70J,
and the support member 68J.
Specifically, the closure lid l~OJ, as best
illustrated in FIGS. 31, 33, and 34, includes an annular
sealing collar 160J for engaging the valve central wall
92J when the lid 120J is closed as illustrated in FIG.
34. The collar 160J forces the valve central wall 92J
against the closure body support member 68Jso as to
seal the valve closed around the slits 94J(FIG. 31).
Preferably, the lid 120J also includes an
outer annular sleeve 170J that is shorter than the
annular sealing collar 160J. The lid 120J further
includes lu~s 172J(FIG. 31) which are circumfe!rentially
spaced apart around the inner periphery of the lid
sleeve 170J. The lugs 172J are unitary with the lid
sleeve 170J, and each lug 172J has an end surface that
is coplaner with the sleeve end surface.
The lugs 172J and sleeve 170J function to
force a peripheral, annular flat surface 178J of the
valve 70J downwardly when the lid is closed ~FIG. 34).
This helps to deform the valve central wall 92J
downwardly to conform with the support member 68Jso
that the valve slits 94J are effectively sealed within
the annular sealing collar 160J.
Further, to ensure that the sealing collar
160J effectively engages the valve central wall 92J, the
sealing collar 160J preferably has a frustoconical end
surface 180J. The frustoconical end surface 180J
defines an angle that is equal to the angle of a line
tangent to the support member concave surface 74J at a
2~8874
point axially aligned wi h a selected point on the end
surface 180J when the lid is closed.
When the closure lid 120~ is open, the valve
70J, owing to its inherent resiliency, returns to its
original, unstressed confiyuration (FIG. 33). In that
configuration, the valve central wall 92~ is spaced
upwardly from the support member concave surface 74J
(FIG. 33), and the valve cylindrical portion 96J assumes
its original, unstressed cylindrical configuration. In
this configuration, the contents of the container may
pass up through the dispensing passage 62J (FIG. 31) and
out through the valve 92J when the pressure of the
liquid is sufficient to overcome the resilient closure
forces of the valve 70J.
In a preferred method for making the closure
40J, the closure body 50J and lid 120J are molded as a
unitary structure from polypropylene in the orientation
illustrated in FIG. 31. As the closure 40J is ejected
from the mold (not illustrated), the lid 120J is moved
by the mold into the fully closed position (FIG. 34).
Next, the valve 70J is inserted into position against
the closed lid 120J and against the clamping surface
lllJ. Subsequently, the retaining ring 90J is inserted
into the snap-fit engagement with the closure body
collar 51J so as to tightly clamp the valve 70J. The
closure 40J is then ready for assembly onto a suitable
container.
Preferably, the retainer ring 90J is also
molded from suitable thermoplastic materials. The
pro~ision of the flat annular surface 76J around the
concave support member surface 74J aids in the molding
process. This eliminates having to mold an acute angle
at the peripheral edge of the concave surface 74J. Such
a sharp angle is difficult to mold and is more likely to
break.
2~8874
The use of the separate, bottom-insertable,
snap-fit, retaining ring 90J accommodates the
manufacture of the closure 40J and accommodates assembly
of the components. In some applications, it may be
desireable to hold the retaining ring 90J in place in
the closure body 50J by additional or other means, such
as sonic welding, adhesive bonding, chemically fused
bonding, or friction welding bonding.
In any case, it is preferable to provide a
reduced spacing between the ring 90J and the closure
body seat lllJ inwardly from the peripheral edge of the
valve flange 98J. This provides a reduced volume region
and requires substantially increased forces for valve
removal.
The valve retention capability of the closure
is increased even further by the provision of the unique
projecting rings 115J on the closure body clamping
surface lllJ and by the rings 131J and spikes 130J on
the ring clamping surface 112J. The spikes and rings
increase the retaining force because they become
embedded in the valve flange material or otherwise
deform the valve flange material. If desired,
additional or other types of protrusions could be
provided on the clamping surfaces lllJ and 112J.
In a preferred method for making the closure
40J, the closure body and lid are molded from
polypropylene in the orientation illustrated in FIG. 31.
As the closure is ejected from the mold ~not
illustrated), the lid 120J is moved by the mold into the
fully closed position (FIG. 34). Next, the valve 70J is
inserted into position against the closed lid 120J and
against the clamping surface lllJ. Subsequently, the
insert retaining ring 90J is inserted into the snap-fit
engagement with the closure body collar 51J so as to
20~887~
- 35 -
tiqhtly clamp the valve 70J. The closure is then ready
for assembly onto a suitable container.
It will be readily observed from the foregoing
detailed description of the invention and from the
illustrations thereof that numerous other variations and
modifications may be effected without departing from the
true spirit and scope of the novel concepts or
principles of this invention.
