U.S. patent application number 10/735277 was filed with the patent office on 2004-11-25 for systems, devices and methods for opening a bottle sealed with a stopper and for sealing a bottle.
Invention is credited to Gardner, William A., Virdee, Alan, Whelan, Patrick M..
Application Number | 20040232102 10/735277 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46300519 |
Filed Date | 2004-11-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040232102 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gardner, William A. ; et
al. |
November 25, 2004 |
Systems, devices and methods for opening a bottle sealed with a
stopper and for sealing a bottle
Abstract
An apparatus for removing a stopper from a bottle by rotating a
threaded capsule surrounding the threaded neck of a bottle. The
capsule is preferably received over a narrowed neck of the bottle
to maintain the appearance of a foil-wrapped and cork-closed
bottle. The bottle may be sealed with plugs (natural cork,
synthetic cork, molded plugs), planar seals, or a combination
thereof. The capsule may engage the stopper directly or by way of a
stopper anchor. Aspects of the invention include preventing
uncontrolled egress of stoppers from pressurized bottles, the
resealing of various forms of bottles after removal of the stopper,
locking the closure in place, and providing evidence of
tampering.
Inventors: |
Gardner, William A.;
(Yountville, CA) ; Whelan, Patrick M.; (Vacaville,
CA) ; Virdee, Alan; (Rio Linda, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
JOHN P. O'BANION
O'BANION & RITCHEY LLP
400 CAPITOL MALL SUITE 1550
SACRAMENTO
CA
95814
US
|
Family ID: |
46300519 |
Appl. No.: |
10/735277 |
Filed: |
December 12, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10735277 |
Dec 12, 2003 |
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10443461 |
May 21, 2003 |
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10443461 |
May 21, 2003 |
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10306633 |
Nov 27, 2002 |
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6763961 |
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10306633 |
Nov 27, 2002 |
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09760375 |
Jan 12, 2001 |
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6510957 |
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09760375 |
Jan 12, 2001 |
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09273838 |
Mar 22, 1999 |
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6179140 |
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09273838 |
Mar 22, 1999 |
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08746799 |
Nov 18, 1996 |
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5884789 |
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60443020 |
Jan 27, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
215/299 ;
215/296; 215/364; 81/3.45 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 39/0011 20130101;
B67B 7/06 20130101; B65D 39/16 20130101; B65D 1/0246 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
215/299 ;
215/296; 215/364; 081/003.45 |
International
Class: |
B65D 039/00 |
Claims
1-64 (canceled)
65. An apparatus for sealing a bottle, comprising: a stopper for
sealing a pouring spout within a neck portion of a bottle; a shank
member retained within said stopper; and means for attaching said
shank member to a head member to which a stopper extraction force
may be applied in response to rotation of a threaded sleeve
retained about the neck portion of the bottle.
66. An apparatus as recited in claim 65, wherein the assembly of
said stopper and shank member is configured for being installed
within the neck of the bottle prior to being engaged by said head
member.
67. An apparatus as recited in claim 65, wherein said stopper
comprises cork material formed into a shape suitable for sealing
the pouring spout within the neck of a bottle for retaining fluids
therein.
68. An apparatus as recited in claim 65, wherein said stopper
comprises a compliant material retained about a frame formed by
said shank member, wherein said stopper is suitably shaped for
sealing the pouring spout and retaining fluids in the bottle.
69. An apparatus as recited in claim 68: wherein said frame
comprises a first polymer material configured from which to form a
rigid structure; and wherein said compliant material comprises a
second polymer material having greater elasticity than said first
polymer material.
70. An apparatus for removing a stopper from a bottle, comprising:
a stopper frame of a substantially rigid material; an elastic
sealing material retained upon said stopper frame to form a stopper
having a size and shape adapted for sealing a pouring spout in a
neck portion of a bottle; and means for attaching said stopper
frame to a head member to which a stopper extraction force may be
applied in response to rotation of a threaded sleeve retained about
the neck portion of the bottle.
71. An apparatus as recited in claim 70: wherein said stopper frame
and said elastic sealing material form a stopper; and wherein said
stopper is configured for being installed within the neck of the
bottle prior to being engaged by the head member.
72. An apparatus as recited in claim 71, wherein said means for
attaching said stopper frame to said head member comprises a press
fit connector.
73. An apparatus as recited in claim 72: wherein said press fit
connector is configured for engaging said head member in response
to application of a first level of force; and wherein disengagement
requires utilizing a substantially larger second level of
force.
74. An apparatus as recited in claim 73, wherein said second level
of force exceeds approximately fifty pounds.
75. An apparatus as recited in claim 73, wherein said stopper and
said head member are configured for engagement in response to at
least one protrusion on one member being received into at least one
mating aperture in the other member.
76. An apparatus as recited in claim 73: wherein said stopper frame
comprises a first polymer material for forming a rigid structure;
and wherein said elastic sealing material comprises a second
polymer material having greater elasticity than said first polymer
material; said second polymer material for forming a seal about a
portion of said rigid structure.
77. An apparatus as recited in claim 73, further comprising an
annular lip of said elastic material disposed proximal a top
portion of said stopper frame and configured for retention between
a sleeve and bottle as a compression gasket.
78-220 (canceled)
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of copending U.S.
application Ser. No. 10/443/461 filed on May 21, 2003, which is a
continuation-in-part of copending U.S. application Ser. No.
10/306,633 filed on Nov. 27, 2002, which is a continuation of U.S.
Ser. No. 09/760,375 filed on Jan. 12, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No.
6,510,957, incorporated herein by reference, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/273,838 filed
Mar. 22,1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,179,140, incorporated herein by
reference, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser.
No. 08/746,799 filed on Nov. 18,1996, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,884,789,
incorporated herein by reference. This application also claims
priority from U.S. provisional application serial No. 60/443,020
filed on Jan. 27, 2003, incorporated herein by reference, and U.S.
provisional application serial No. 60/382,410 filed on May 21,
2002, incorporated herein by reference.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable
INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT
DISC
[0003] Not Applicable
NOTICE OF MATERIAL SUBJECT TO COPYRIGHT PROTECTION
[0004] A portion of the material in this patent document is subject
to copyright protection under the copyright laws of the United
States and of other countries. The owner of the copyright rights
has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the
patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the
United States Patent and Trademark Office publicly available file
or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
The copyright owner does not hereby waive any of its rights to have
this patent document maintained in secrecy, including without
limitation its rights pursuant to 37 C.F.R. .sctn. 1.14.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0005] 1. Field of the Invention
[0006] This invention pertains generally to devices and methods for
sealing and opening bottles or similar containers and, more
particularly, to extracting a stopper from a bottle by rotating a
sleeve that is threaded onto the bottle.
[0007] 2. Description of the Background Art
[0008] Wine and various other beverages, as well various liquid
food products, are often packaged in glass bottles that are sealed
with a stopper. The stoppers can be made from variety of materials,
but are typically fabricated from natural cork or a synthetic cork
material. Difficulties encountered with opening stopper sealed
bottles has led to a number of devices and methods for extracting
the stoppers. Many of those devices consist of awkward, cumbersome,
or clumsy, auxiliary cork removing devices (such as cork screws,
cork pullers, pressure pumps, etc.).
[0009] In addition, "easy-open" containers such as snap-top cans
and screw-cap bottles are well known. While such containers can be
easier to open than stopper sealed bottles, they have not been
widely adopted in certain industries, such as the wine. One
particularly salient reason for lack of acceptance in the wine
industry is that such "easy-open" containers lack the aesthetic
appeal of corked bottles that is important to wine consumers.
Another is that such "easy open" containers are not compatible with
bottling lines.
[0010] Pressurized containers, such as bottles containing sparking
wine, present other challenges. One such challenge is opening the
bottle without the risk of injury from a stopper being blown out of
the bottle and becoming a projectile. A number of patents and
publications attempt to address this danger inherent with sparking
wine closures, such as the following patents which are incorporated
herein by reference: U.S. Pat. No. 5,803,281, U.S. Pat. No.
4,592,477, U.S. Pat. No. 4,392,579, U.S. Pat. No. 4,076,142, U.S.
Pat. No. 3,944,104, U.S. Pat. No. 3,847,295, PCT Published
Application No. WO 97/28056, French No. FR 74 28101 and German No.
DE 196 09 487 C1.
[0011] A completely adequate means for quick and easy removal of
corks or other stoppers from wine bottles, for example, should meet
four basic requirements. The first is that the stopper should
provide an adequate seal against the inside walls of the neck of
the bottle. The second is that a permanently installed pulling
device should not protrude through the bottom or sides of the
stopper and should not split or tear the stopper because of the
likelihood of resultant wine leakage and/or wine oxygenation or
other contamination. The third is that installation of the stopper
and stopper-puller mechanism into the wine bottle should not unduly
complicate the present bottle-corking technology used throughout
the industry. The fourth is that the stopper should be easily
extractable by the consumer without the use of a cumbersome
auxiliary device.
[0012] The foregoing requirements are also applicable to other
bottled beverages as well as to some liquid foods. Furthermore,
bottlers continually seek advanced closure designs to improve the
aesthetics and usage factors for non-cork closures, such as
currently served by the metal screw-cap market, or similar
non-corked bottle segments of the market.
[0013] Therefore, a need exists for an apparatus that allows for
"easy extraction" of the stopper while still providing an adequate
stopper/glass seal that meets the four basic requirements outlined
above. As used herein, "easy extraction" means that no cumbersome,
awkward, or clumsy auxiliary equipment, such as cork screws that
must be screwed into the stopper by the consumer, blade style
removers that require inserting a pair of blades between the
stopper and bottle, or air-pump removers that require a needle to
be forced through the stopper and air pumped into the bottle to
increase pressure, and so on, is required of the consumer, and that
adequate pulling forces are as easily applied as with conventional
cork screws. A further need exists for advanced closures, with or
without corks, that provide adequate sealing, may be opened without
resorting to the use of external equipment, and which satisfy seal
integrity, taste, and aesthetic criteria for a variety of bottled
fluid products. The present invention satisfies these needs, as
well as others, and overcomes the deficiencies of previously
developed bottle closures.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] The present invention pertains to various embodiments of
sleeved closure capsules, and associated adaptations of stoppers
and bottles, that can provide the desirable appearance and use
factors of traditional corked bottles while simplifying opening the
bottle and serving the beverage. In many cases, bottling costs can
also be reduced by employing the systems, devices, and methods of
the present invention. The invention is particularly well suited
for use with beverages such as still wines and sparkling wines
(champagnes), although it may be used in connection with bottles
that contain other types of liquid food products.
[0015] In general terms, several aspects of the invention are to
provide for (1) extracting the stopper (e.g., cork) in response to
torque that is easily applied by the user without a separate tool,
(2) storing a reseal cap as part of the traditional-looking
package, (3) resealing the bottle without reusing the stopper, (4)
providing a drip resistant pour spout, (5) masking the threads of
the bottle neck to simulate a foil-finished bottle, and (6)
preventing inadvertent seal loss and providing tamper
indications.
[0016] In accordance with an aspect of the prevent invention, a
bottle sealed with a stopper is opened by rotating a sleeve that is
annularly disposed about the neck of the bottle.
[0017] According to another aspect of the invention, the seal or
stopper is removed from the bottle by rotating a closure capsule
that is disposed about the bottle neck. The closure capsule
comprises at least a threaded sleeve, and may include other
elements adapted for removing the stopper and/or resealing the
bottle.
[0018] According to another aspect of the invention, the closure
capsule forms a part of an overall closure system, also referred to
as a closure, that can include a seal or stopper assembly.
[0019] One of the objectives for many of the embodiments of the
present invention is that of simulating the appearance of
traditional foil-wrapped bottles. It will be appreciated, for
example, that the appearance of threads on a wine bottle have often
been perceived as a sign of low quality wine due to their
association with the use of metal screw caps used to seal bottles
containing lower quality still and sparkling wines. Although the
present invention relies on threads on a bottle for functionality,
an aspect of the invention is to hide the threads and provide the
appearance of a conventional foil wrapped bottle.
[0020] Another object of the invention is to minimize potential
undesirable consumer perception associated with the present
invention. Accordingly, another aspect of the invention is to
provide a closure capsule that can be reinstalled on the bottle
after removal. After removing the stopper from the bottle by
rotating the sleeve of the closure capsule, a wine steward,
waitperson, or consumer can generally spin the capsule back onto
the bottle to retain the desired bottle aesthetics.
[0021] The closure embodiments described herein may be generally
divided into four functional types; namely, natural cork-based
closures for non-pressurized and pressurized fluids (including
traditional corks, agglomerated corks, and technical corks made of
a mixture of finely ground cork and a bonding agent), and synthetic
cork-based closures for non-pressurized and pressurized fluids.
Non-pressurized closures are directed toward applications such as
still wine and olive oil, while pressurized closures are directed
toward applications such as champagne, sparkling wine, beer, and
sparkling juices.
[0022] Table 1 summarizes general closure types according to the
present invention. The described bottle closures span a number of
variations and improvements suitable to a wide variety of
applications, cost factors, and aesthetic criteria. A number of
embodiments of the present invention are described in which bottles
are opened by unthreading an elongated sleeve portion of a closure
capsule. The bottles may be sealed with plugs and/or planar
seals.
[0023] In one embodiment of the invention, the sleeve portion of
the capsule is generally configured as a structural element,
typically fabricated from a polymeric material, that surrounds a
substantial lengthwise portion of the neck of the bottle. The
length of the sleeve generally exceeds its diameter or the bottle
diameter, and is more preferably about one and one half times (1
.5.times.) to about four times (4.times.) the sleeve or bottle
diameter, depending in part on the length of the stopper to be
removed. Longer sleeves may be utilized in particular if sleeve
length is measured inclusive of capping elements. The above
sleeve-length criteria are generally applicable to the various
embodiments of closures described herein. Threads are disposed
along a substantial axial portion of the interior of the sleeve for
engaging exterior bottle threads.
[0024] Plug sealing according to the present invention comprises
the use of anchored or anchorless stoppers, formed into appropriate
shapes, for retention within the neck of the bottle to plug the
pouring spout and thereby stop fluid flow within the bottle neck.
By way of example, a specially designed anchor may be installed
within the compliant material of the stopper, which typically
comprises either natural cork stoppers, or synthetic cork stoppers,
as employed within the wine industry, whereby cork removal is
performed by rotating an associated closure capsule which engages
the anchor to open the bottle. The closure capsule of the present
invention preferably replaces the traditional metal foil
capsule.
[0025] Under rotation of the closure capsule in relation to the
bottle, an axial force is exerted on the anchor which extracts the
stopper from the bottle. The closure capsule provides a mechanical
advantage in the conversion of the applied torque to the resultant
axial extraction force. It will be appreciated that various levels
of mechanical advantage are provided by the closure capsules of the
invention depending on thread pitch and number of thread leads. A
beneficial aspect of the cork pulling designs is that the cork is
not fastened to the closure capsule and, therefore, is not
subjected to rotation in response to the rotation of the closure
capsule unless friction is overcome. It will be appreciated that
the total work required of the user for rotating a cork of
conventional size and shape within a bottle while performing axial
cork extraction would increase, relative to that required to
extract the cork without rotating it. The engagement between the
closure capsule and anchor head (attached to the stopper) is
preferably configured to be dispersed over a wide area to allow for
cost effective implementation of the closure elements, such as
being molded from polymeric materials (i.e. thermoplastics).
[0026] In some embodiments of the present invention, the closure
capsules are configured to engage the exterior of an anchor head
having a diameter equal to or preferably greater than approximately
one-half the inside bottle neck diameter, although it is more
preferably approximately equal to one and one-third the inside
bottle neck diameter. One embodiment uses a multipart anchor, and
more preferably a two-part anchor which allows bottling to be
performed without the need for additional bottling steps and/or new
machinery. The use of two-part anchors can shift the risk of
application failures from winery bottling lines to a smaller set of
cork preprocessors and perhaps distributors, because the anchor is
joined to the compliant stopper portion before delivery to the
bottling line where the stopper with anchor is inserted into the
bottle.
[0027] In one embodiment, the two-part anchor comprises a shank
member for retaining a compliant layer about the exterior of the
shank. The shank is configured for attachment to a head member
capable of receiving an axial stopper extraction force in response
to unthreading of a sleeve threadably engaged on the bottle neck.
The two-part anchor incorporates a radially symmetric or annular
latch mechanism whereby the anchor head can be latched to the
shank, after the shank is coupled to the compliant layer and
inserted into the bottle. It will be appreciated that the shank may
be coupled to the compliant layer by threading it into a cork or
other compliant material, molding the shank within a compliant
material, or by additional means without departing from the
teachings of the present invention. By way of a first example, the
shank is configured for installation within a stopper, such as
comprising a cork. By way of a second example, the shank is an
elongated frame structure upon which an elastic material is joined
(i.e. molded), wherein the combination forms an anchored
stopper.
[0028] The head member preferably comprises an annular member
disposed above the sleeve for engagement by a portion of the
closure capsule when rotated to effect stopper extraction. An
annular rib or lip, or other portion of the closure capsule is
configured to engage the head member and apply an extraction force
to the stopper. The sleeve is preferably configured with internal
threads which mate with external threads on the outer surface of
the neck of the bottle, or another mating sleeve attached to the
outer surface of the bottle.
[0029] In one embodiment, means is provided for mechanically
coupling the anchor shank and anchor head. Preferably this is
performed in response to threading the closure capsule and its
optional top cover, such as a reseal cap, onto the bottle after
installing a stopper having an embedded anchor shank into the
bottle. Pushing axially on the optional top cover or the anchor
head while, rotating the capsule in relation to the bottle, causes
axial pressure to be exerted on the annular head and the attached
anchor shank and stopper. The anchor head is thereby pushed onto
the anchor shank where it is latched into place.
[0030] It should be appreciated that the use of right-hand or
left-hand threads on the bottle are substantially equivalent,
although right-hand threads are preferred as they are more common
which may reduce confusion when users attempt to open the bottle.
It is preferred that, if right hand threads are used on the bottle
and a threaded anchor shank is used, the shank threads be
configured as left handed threads to prevent possible unscrewing of
the shank due to friction between the sleeve and the anchor head
when the sleeve is unscrewed. This configuration of closure enables
the consumer to easily apply a low-level torque that produces a
well controlled pulling forces equivalent to those currently
generated by auxiliary cork screws within a self-contained assembly
that is readily and inexpensively manufactured and utilized by
wineries and other bottlers, such as of wine or other fluids.
[0031] This closure method allows wine or other producers to
utilize conventional natural or synthetic cork materials to assure
proper sealing of the wine or other fluid being retained. In
addition, the present invention may be utilized with high-speed
mechanized corking equipment typical to the industry, without
introducing a new source of contamination.
[0032] The use of "anchorless" natural or synthetic corks is also
an aspect of the invention, wherein the cork is shaped so as to be
engaged by the closure capsule. Methods are described for inserting
anchorless corks into the bottle either before or after coupling of
the closure capsule to the bottle. By way of example, corks similar
in shape to traditional sparkling wine corks, after deformation
during bottle corking, may be engaged directly by the cork-removal
sleeve, while substantially cylindrical corks may be adapted, such
as with exterior recesses, for being engaged by the closure
capsule.
[0033] Other embodiments of the invention use cork-free forms of
closures, wherein a bottle with a threaded top is sealed with an
elongated closure capsule in which a fixed or removable seal
portion is retained. The closure capsule provides the same
appearance as a foil-wrapped bottle neck, but this form of closure
provides an economic sealing alternative while overcoming the
aesthetic shortcomings, and concomitant consumer resistance, of
"screw-cap" bottles. Variations are described utilizing multi-part
sleeves, seal plugs, and tamper indicative features.
[0034] Additional aspects of the invention may be applied to a
number of the closures described herein. A method is also described
for configuring the interface between the closure capsule and the
bottle so that a desired appearance is attained, such as following
the shape of a conventional wine bottle.
[0035] According to another aspect of the invention, bottles
utilized with the closure capsules of the invention are adapted
with exterior threads to engage the interior of the sleeve of the
capsule. Preferred bottle adaptations include a recess below the
threads, referred to herein as a "choke ring" to allow the bottle
to be grasped by machine tools, such as during bottle manufacture.
The circumferential depression in the bottle neck forming the choke
ring is utilized in place of the usual protruding ring that is
needed to grasp the bottle during the molding process. The upper
portion of the bottle neck, such as the corkage area, is preferably
narrowed to accommodate the thickness of the sleeve portion of the
capsule so that the exterior of the threaded-on capsule conforms to
the contours of the bottle making it appear as a generally
conventional bottle wrapped with a foil wrapper. It will be
appreciated that traditional bottle necks have an outside diameter
generally exceeding one inch (1 inch), and are more typically in
the range of from one inch (1 inch) diameter to one and one half
inch (1.5 inches) diameter, with a common outside diameter being
one point three inches (1.3 inches). The interior at the base of
the capsule is preferably tapered to conform to the transition in
bottle diameter leading into the narrowed portion of the neck.
[0036] The closure capsules provide mechanical leverage that allow
removing bottle corks, or other stoppers, easily and controllably.
Threads on the sleeve portion of the closure capsules enable the
conversion of a manual torque (e.g., approximately 20 pound-inches
or less) applied to the capsule to deliver an axial force (e.g., up
to approximately 100 pounds of force) for extracting a cork, while
minimizing the number of turns of the capsule required to fully
extract the cork.
[0037] Another aspect of the invention relates to features that
prevent inadvertent loss of seal integrity on closures and/or
indications that the seal has been compromised, such as in the case
of bottle tampering. By way of example, closure capsule rotation
can be limited, such as by utilizing unidirectional protrusions,
while retainers such as snap-rings or other mechanisms may be
employed to serve as a latch. Additionally, tamper indications are
preferably provided on all embodiments, such as through the use of
a segmented capsule that separates when the capsule is unthreaded,
engagements between the bottle and capsule that break or are
overcome when the capsule is unthreaded, or frangible neck bands
that break in response to twisting of the closure capsule.
[0038] Closures are described in which the bottle cap separates
from the sleeve, allowing the sleeve, preferably with a
drip-resistant edge, to be threaded into place extending past the
mouth of the bottle to minimize dripping.
[0039] Means for resealing the bottle after opening, such as a
reseal cap, may be incorporated as an aspect of the present
invention as well. The resealing means may be implemented so as not
to depart from the traditional appearance of the bottle, while
providing a self-contained mechanism for resealing the contents,
for example to prevent oxidation during storage. A threaded nipple
portion can be preferably provided for certain embodiments within
which a threaded cap is received. It should be appreciated that the
cap may be configured to snap or thread onto the bottle for sealing
and may be attached to the sleeve when not in use by threading,
snapping, or other removable retention means such as frangible
bonds, material links or the like.
[0040] A secondary seal means is also described as an aspect of the
present invention, wherein oxygen is prevented from reaching the
retained fluid, such as wine, even if the stopper seal integrity
were compromised.
[0041] Pressurized bottle sealing is also described in which the
stopper cork is prevented from uncontrolled, and possibly
explosive, egress from the bottle.
[0042] It should be appreciated that the invention herein may be
implemented in a number of alternative embodiments without
departing from the teachings of the present invention. The
following alternative descriptions are provided by way of example,
and not of limitation.
[0043] In one embodiment, a two-piece cork anchoring apparatus and
method is characterized by (a) a sleeve configured for threadable
engagement about the neck of a bottle having exterior threads, (b)
an anchor head adapted for being engaged by a portion of the
sleeve, (c) an anchor shank configured for attachment to a bottle
stopper, and (d) means for mechanical coupling of the anchor head
to the anchor shank.
[0044] The stopper may comprise a natural or synthetic cork
configured for being attached to an anchor shank, or an elastic
material attached to an anchor shank configured as a frame for
retaining the elastic material as a stopper.
[0045] The closure capsule is retained in contact with or proximal
to the anchor head member. Rotation of the sleeve on the exterior
bottle threads provides for engaging the anchor head member to
apply force required in removing the stopper in response to the
sleeve being unscrewed from the bottle.
[0046] The shank and head portions of the anchor may be joined in
various ways such as utilizing mating connectors, (i.e. press-fit
connectors), which preferably engage in response to the application
of a sufficient engagement force (i.e. one to ten pounds)
comprising a first level of force while threading the sleeve down
onto the bottle. Once engaged, the shank and head should not become
disengaged even when subjected to high cork extraction forces.
Disengagement of the shank and head, therefore, should only arise
in response to forces exceeding that expected for removing the
stopper (i.e. over one hundred fifty pounds for a cork stopper).
For example, this second level of force required to disengage the
shank and head should be at least approximately fifty pounds, even
for small corks. More preferably this second level of force should
be within the range approximately fifty pounds to approximately
three hundred pounds of axial force for bottles with inserted
sealing plugs. It should be appreciated that actual extraction
forces on a conventional cork have been found to exceed one hundred
thirty pounds, and that the anchor shank and anchor head should not
be subject to disengagement upon application of axial forces of
this magnitude.
[0047] In one embodiment of head to shank engagement, at least one
protrusion on one member is received into at least one mating
aperture in the other member. The members may include
circumferential adaptations, such as slots, grooves, or the like,
as a means of moderating engagement forces when attaching the shank
to head. One or more ribs are preferably included on these members
to accommodate a range of cork insertion depths into the bottle,
typically approximately two tenths of an inch (0.2 inch).
[0048] Anchor shanks configured for insertion into natural or
synthetic corks are preferably configured with means for automated
engagement of the anchor shank by an automated insertion machine
which allows the anchor shank to be automatically inserted into a
stopper. Such means may be implemented using a mechanical
engagement structure, such as a recess or protrusion (i.e.
polygonal) on the upper portion of the shank member which is
configured for urging the anchor shank into a stopper by automated
mechanisms. A flange may be incorporated extending from the upper
periphery of the anchor shank to control the depth of insertion of
the anchor shank within a stopper. It will be appreciated that the
anchor shanks may be preinserted into stoppers, preferably of cork
or synthetic cork, such as by a cork manufacturer, thereby
simplifying the bottling process and removing variables with regard
to the cork-to-anchor interface.
[0049] The two piece, or multielement, anchor assembly makes
possible a method of sealing a bottle with a removable stopper,
which comprises: (a) inserting an anchor shank within a stopper
configured for being inserted within the neck of a bottle for
sealing the contents of the bottle, (b) inserting the stopper and
retained anchor shank (with or without compression) into the neck
of the bottle, (c) threading a capsule assembly onto the neck of
the bottle, wherein the capsule has a threaded sleeve and a
retained anchor head configured for engagement of the anchor shank,
and (d) joining the anchor head of the capsule to the anchor shank
by threading down the capsule onto the neck of the bottle whereby
the bottle may be subsequently opened by threading the capsule
assembly up off of the bottle neck to supply an extraction force
through the anchor head and the anchor shank to the stopper for
removal.
[0050] Preferably, the anchor head is joined to the anchor shank by
mechanically engaging at least one protrusion with at least one
mating receptacle, for example protrusions which extend down from
the head engage receptacles in the shank, or the converse
receptacle-protrusion arrangement, or the use of similar coupling
mechanisms.
[0051] As can be seen, according to an aspect of the invention, the
closure capsule generally surrounds a portion of the bottle neck to
provide a foil-wrapped appearance, or may be alternatively styled
according to other desired aesthetics. The lower portion of the
closure capsule is configured for being threaded down into a recess
in the neck of a bottle onto which it is received, wherein a
desired shape transition can be obtained between the bottle and the
closure capsule, such as that of providing a foil-wrapped
appearance. An upper portion of the closure capsule includes an
engagement structure positioned for engaging the anchor head,
preferably from underneath, although it may less preferably engage
the head member from the sides or the top. Unscrewing, unthreading,
of the closure capsule from the bottle neck results in breaking the
bottle seal and opening of the bottle.
[0052] According to further aspects of the invention, bottle caps
can be incorporated into the closure to provide for resealing
and/or preventing uncontrolled explosive cork egress, such as
preventing corks from becoming projectiles driven by bottle
pressure. Reseal caps can seal the bottle by snapping over the rim
of the pouring spout of the bottle or by being threaded over the
top of the bottle neck and covering the pouring spout and rim, and
may be retained atop the sleeve of the closure capsule by snap
engagement, threads, or separable connection, such as molded tabs
or bonding.
[0053] By way of further example, additional aspects of the
invention include threaded bottles configurations for use with the
closure capsules. Preferably the threads extend from a lengthwise
portion of the neck, for at least approximately one thread
revolution, and preferably one to two (or more) thread revolutions
at the desired pitch. A portion of the neck of these bottles is
preferably recessed, wherein a smooth exterior is provided on the
combination of capsule and bottle, such as appearing like a
foil-wrapped bottle.
[0054] Preventing uncontrolled stopper egress from, for example,
bottles of sparkling wines, champagnes, or beers similarly bottled,
is another aspect of the invention. In one embodiment, an apparatus
for removing a stopper from the pouring spout within the neck of a
bottle comprises: (a) an anchor member having a shank portion
configured for being retained within a stopper and a head portion
attached to an upper portion of the shank, and (b) a sleeve having
internal threads configured for threadably rotating on external
bottle threads, (c) wherein the sleeve is configured to engage an
underside of the head portion of the anchor member, and (d) means
for restricting the passage of a stopper through the sleeve.
[0055] By way of example, and not of limitation, the stopper is
preferably prevented from unrestricted passage through the sleeve
by including a flange (i.e. annular flange) on an upper portion of
the sleeve, at least a portion of which extends over the pouring
spout of the bottle thereby constraining stopper egress. During
unthreading of the sleeve from the bottle, the sleeve remains
threadably engaged on the bottle until after the seal between the
stopper and the bottle is broken, thereby preventing uncontrolled,
and possibly explosive, egress.
[0056] The closure capsule may be configured as a threaded sleeve
configured with a flange for engaging a stopper, whose upper end
protrudes out from the rim of the pouring spout of the bottle, in
response to unthreading of the sleeve from the bottle. A
restraining cap is preferably retained over the stopper to prevent
uncontrolled egress, such as when retaining pressurized fluids. The
stopper being engaged may have a bulbous head, such as with
sparkling wines, or other forms of protrusions or recesses which
are adapted for being engaged by the sleeve flange, or other
engagement mechanisms of the sleeve. The engagement mechanisms can
comprise engagement fingers for providing unidirectional engagement
of portions of the stopper, allowing the stopper to be inserted
through the sleeve during bottling, or the sleeve engaged over the
stopper, according to a first direction, while under axial sleeve
movement during unscrewing of the sleeve from the bottle, the
engagement mechanisms sufficiently grasp the stopper to supply the
necessary extraction force.
[0057] According to another aspect of the invention, the closure
capsule can be designed as a single piece, with or without a bottle
neck plug, and a portion of the sleeve, or cap, can be configured
to at least partially engage the bottle for increasing the
resistance to inadvertent seal loss. For example, in one
embodiment, an apparatus for removing a stopper from the pouring
spout within the neck of a bottle comprises: (a) a sleeve having
internal threads configured for engaging threads exterior to the
neck of a bottle, (b) a cap portion joined to the top of the
sleeve, and (c) means for sealing a bottle, joined to the cap
portion.
[0058] The length of the sleeve generally exceeds its diameter, and
more preferably has a length approximately one and one half times
(1.5.times.) to approximately four times (4.times.) its diameter,
depending in part on the length of the stopper to be removed. The
sealing means may be implemented in a number of alternative forms
such as a natural cork, synthetic cork, molded polymeric plug (i.e.
with sealing ridges about the annular periphery), substantially
planar seals (for engaging and sealing against the top of the
bottle), planar sections of compliant material, planar seals with
flexible extending seal rings, combinations thereof and other forms
of providing a fluid tight and oxygen-permeation-resistant seal on
the rim and interior of the pouring spout of the bottle.
[0059] The cap and sleeve may be joined in such a manner as to
allow for separation during opening of the bottle, which occurs in
response to unthreading of the sleeve from the bottle. The lower
sleeve portion may be optionally configured with threads so after
removal of the cap portion the remaining sleeve portion may be
threadably engaged with the bottle threads forming a pour spout
which preferably has a drip resistant edge.
[0060] It will be appreciated, therefore, that the present
invention may be implemented in various ways and with various
options. A number of objects of the invention should be readily
apparent, including but not limited to, the following.
[0061] An object of the invention is to provide for the easy and
convenient removal of a cork from a bottle.
[0062] Another object of the invention is to provide a cork removal
apparatus that can be easily packaged with a bottle.
[0063] Another object of the invention is to avoid the requirement
that the consumer perform the operation of anchoring a pulling
device to the cork.
[0064] Another object of the invention is to avoid the requirement
that the consumer force a device through, into, or along the sides
of the cork.
[0065] Another object of the invention is that the consumer only be
required to perform a simple unscrewing operation in order to
uncork or otherwise open a sealed bottle.
[0066] Another object of the invention is that the consumer not be
required, after uncorking a bottle, to unscrew a corkscrew or
similar means from the cork.
[0067] Another object of the invention is to provide a cork removal
apparatus that can be manufactured at low cost.
[0068] Another object of the invention is to provide a cork removal
apparatus that can be employed with corks of various styles,
compositions, and manufacture including natural corks, synthetic
corks, agglomerated natural corks, technical corks, thermoplastic
hollow elements, and others.
[0069] Another object of the invention is to provide a bottle
closure that may be utilized on pressurized and non-pressurized
bottles.
[0070] Another object of the invention is to provide a bottle
closure that may be utilized with natural corks, synthetic corks,
thermoplastic hollow elements, and synthetic sealing elements.
[0071] Another object of the invention is to provide two-part
anchoring of corks, wherein the cork with anchor may be inserted
substantially traditionally with the anchor head and cork pulling
sleeve attached thereafter.
[0072] Another object of the invention is to provide for the use of
anchorless natural or synthetic corks that can be removed by simply
performing a twisting operation on a capsule covering the top of
the bottle.
[0073] Another object of the invention is to provide a threaded
sleeve bottle opening apparatus having a traditional foil finished
bottle appearance.
[0074] Another object of the invention is to provide a form of
synthetic corkage utilizing an interior frame over which a
compliant material is retained.
[0075] Another object of the invention is to provide bottle shapes
that may be readily manufactured and which support the use of
threaded closure capsules.
[0076] Another object of the invention is to provide a closure
capsule which may be molded in a single piece, with integral seal
or to which at least one seal element may be joined.
[0077] Another object of the invention is to provide a closure
capsule in which a portion of the capsule breaks-away when the user
attempts to open the bottle by applying torque to the sleeve of the
closure capsule.
[0078] Another object of the invention is to provide mechanisms
that prevent inadvertent unsealing of the bottle and indicate if a
bottle has been unsealed.
[0079] Another object of the invention is to provide a
drip-resistant pour spout.
[0080] Another object of the invention is to provide a bottle
resealing means that is packaged with the bottle.
[0081] Another object of the invention is to provide a secondary
seal that prevents oxidation of the fluid contents of a bottle
despite primary cork seal failure.
[0082] Another object of the invention is to provide a method of
preventing uncontrolled bottle cork egress in pressurized
bottles.
[0083] Further aspects, objects and advantages of the invention
will be brought out in the following portions of the specification,
wherein the detailed description is for the purpose of fully
disclosing preferred embodiments of the invention without placing
limitations thereon.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)
[0084] The invention will be more fully understood by reference to
the following drawings which are for illustrative purposes
only:
[0085] FIG. 1 is a cross-section of a two-piece anchor assembly and
capsule according to an aspect of the present invention, shown with
a stud protruding from the anchor head which mates with a socket in
the anchor shank.
[0086] FIG. 2 is a cross-section of the anchor shank of FIG. 1.
[0087] FIG. 3 is a top view of the anchor shank of FIG. 1.
[0088] FIG. 4 is a cross-section of a two-piece cork anchor
assembly according to another aspect of the present invention,
shown with a stud protruding from the anchor shank which mates with
a socket in the anchor head.
[0089] FIG. 5 is a detailed view of the stud to socket interface of
FIG. 4.
[0090] FIG. 6 is a top view of the engagement receptacle of FIG.
5.
[0091] FIG. 7 is a detailed view of teeth engagement between the
stud and receptacle of FIG. 5.
[0092] FIG. 8 is the free-body diagram of the latching finger of
FIG. 5.
[0093] FIG. 9 is a cross-section of a cork anchor shank with a
split stud engaging an anchor head member according to another
aspect of the present invention.
[0094] FIG. 10 is a top view of the anchor head member of FIG.
9.
[0095] FIG. 11 is a cross-section of a closure particularly well
suited for sparkling wines or other pressurized fluids according to
another aspect of the present invention, shown with a closure
capsule that prevents uncontrolled cork egress.
[0096] FIG. 12 is a side view of the closure of FIG. 11
overwrapping the top of a bottle, such as found on sparkling
wines.
[0097] FIG. 13 is a top view of the closure of FIG. 12.
[0098] FIG. 14 is a side view of the sleeve from the closure of
FIG. 12.
[0099] FIG. 15 is a cross-section of a bottle closure particularly
well suited for sparkling wines according to another aspect of the
present invention, shown with a bulbous end stopper and traditional
sparkling wine bottle shape.
[0100] FIG. 16 is a cross-section of another embodiment of the
bottle closure shown in FIG. 15, shown with a reseal cap.
[0101] FIG. 17 is a side view of a stopper having a shape adapted
for engagement by a cork pulling sleeve according to another aspect
of the present invention.
[0102] FIG. 18 is a cross-section of a closure capsule for engaging
a stopper, such as shown in FIG. 17 according to another aspect of
the present invention.
[0103] FIG. 19 is a top view of the closure capsule of FIG. 18.
[0104] FIG. 20 is a partial cross-section of the closure capsule of
FIG. 18 on a bottle according to another aspect of the present
invention, and shown engaging a cork such as depicted in FIG.
17.
[0105] FIG. 21 is a detail view of the interface between the
stopper of FIG. 17 and the engagement fingers of the closure
capsule according to another aspect of the present invention.
[0106] FIG. 22 is a cross-section of an alternative closure capsule
according to another aspect of the present invention.
[0107] FIG. 23 is a partial cross-section of the closure capsule of
FIG. 22, shown with a reseal cap engaged on the top of a
bottle.
[0108] FIG. 24 is a side view of a stopper having an enlarged head
according to another aspect of the present invention configured for
being engaged by a closure capsule.
[0109] FIG. 25 is a top view of the stopper shown in FIG. 24.
[0110] FIG. 26 is a partial cross-section of a closure capsule
according to another aspect of the present invention shown for
engaging the stopper of FIG. 24.
[0111] FIG. 27 is a cross-section of a one-piece closure capsule
according to another aspect of the present invention shown with
protrusions for attaching a short cork stopper.
[0112] FIG. 28 is a bottom view of the closure capsule of FIG.
27.
[0113] FIG. 29 is a cross-section of the one-piece closure capsule
of FIG. 27, shown sealing a bottle.
[0114] FIG. 30 is a cross-section of a two-piece closure capsule
according to another aspect of the present invention shown with a
cap and plug assembly which are engaged by a sleeve.
[0115] FIG. 31 is a partial cross-section of the closure capsule of
FIG. 30 showing the combination cap and plug separated from the
sleeve.
[0116] FIG. 32 is a partial cross-section of a closure capsule
having a molded polymeric plug according to another aspect of the
present invention, shown with a cap which restrains uncontrolled
plug egress.
[0117] FIG. 33 is a cross-section of an open-end plug according to
another aspect of the present invention.
[0118] FIG. 34 is a cross-section of an open-top "H" shaped plug
having a curving seal member according to another aspect of the
present invention.
[0119] FIG. 35 is a cross-section of an open-top "H" shaped plug
having a planar seal member according to another aspect of the
present invention.
[0120] FIG. 36 is a cross-section of a long open-top closed-end
plug according to another aspect of the present invention.
[0121] FIG. 37 is a cross-section of a short open-top closed-end
plug according to another aspect of the present invention.
[0122] FIG. 38 is a cross-section of a two-piece plug having a head
member joining to a sealing member according to another aspect of
the present invention.
[0123] FIG. 39 is a cross-section of a one-piece closure capsule
according to another aspect of the present invention, shown with a
ringed plug integrated into the closure capsule.
[0124] FIG. 40 is a cross-section of a first dual-tapered bottle
neck.
[0125] FIG. 41 is a cross-section of a second dual-tapered bottle
neck.
[0126] FIG. 42 is a cross-section of a ringed polymeric plug being
inserted within the first dual-tapered bottle neck depicted in FIG.
40.
[0127] FIG. 43 is a cross-section of a ringed polymeric plug being
inserted within the second dual-tapered bottle neck depicted in
FIG. 41.
[0128] FIG. 44 is a cross-section of a rotatable sleeve closure
with tamper indication according to another embodiment of the
present invention, shown with a planar seal retained beneath a cap
joined to a threadable sleeve.
[0129] FIG. 45 is a detailed view of the rotatable sleeve closure
of FIG. 44.
[0130] FIG. 46 is a cross-section of a straight-finger
tamper-indication feature according to another aspect of the
present invention.
[0131] FIG. 47 is a cross-section of a ratchet-finger
tamper-indication feature according to another aspect of the
present invention.
[0132] FIG. 48 is a cross-section of a closure capsule utilizing
integral seals on the sleeve and a reseal cap according to another
aspect of the present invention.
[0133] FIG. 49 is a cross-section of the closure capsule of FIG. 48
shown sealing a bottle.
[0134] FIG. 50 is a cross-section of a bottle sealed with the
reseal cap shown in FIG. 49 after removal of the sleeve.
[0135] FIG. 51 is a detail view of a compliant seal and drip
resistant edge according to another aspect of the present
invention.
[0136] FIG. 52 is a cross-section of a one-piece separable closure
capsule according to another aspect of the present invention, shown
with capsule attached on a bottle.
[0137] FIG. 53 is a cross-section of the sleeve from the closure
capsule of FIG. 52 shown slid up and engaging the bottle threads
and providing a drip-resistant rim.
[0138] FIG. 54 is a cross-section of the reseal cap separated from
the closure capsule of FIG. 52.
[0139] FIG. 55 is a cross-section of the one-piece capsule
according to another aspect of the present invention, shown with a
single planar seal.
[0140] FIG. 56 is a detail view of a compliant seal element as
depicted in FIG. 55.
[0141] FIG. 57 is a cross-section of a one-piece capsule with a
tamper-resist feature according to another aspect of the present
invention, shown with locking fins engaging the choke ring.
[0142] FIG. 58 is a bottom view of the capsule shown in FIG.
57.
[0143] FIG. 59 is a cross-section of a closure capsule with a
separate combination disk and plug member according to another
aspect of the present invention.
[0144] FIG. 60 is an exploded cross-section of disk and plug member
of FIG. 59, shown positioned for being engaged by the sleeve of the
closure capsule onto the bottle.
[0145] FIG. 61 is a side view of a bottle neck having a locking
ring for use with a tamper-indication feature according to another
aspect of the present invention.
[0146] FIG. 62 is a cross-section of a closure capsule with
separable bottom ring according to another aspect of the present
invention, shown engaged on the bottle.
[0147] FIG. 63 is a detail view of the closure capsule of FIG. 62
engaged with the bottle.
[0148] FIG. 64 is a bottom view of the closure capsule of FIG. 63
showing engagement tabs.
[0149] FIG. 65 is a side view of the sealed bottle having the
closure capsule of FIG. 62 surrounding the bottle of FIG. 61.
[0150] FIG. 66 is a side view of a bottle configured for retaining
a sleeve upon the neck of a bottle according to another aspect of
the present invention, shown with engagement protrusions extending
near the base of the bottle neck.
[0151] FIG. 67 is a side view of the bottle neck of FIG. 66 upon
which a closure capsule is engaged, according to an aspect of the
present invention.
[0152] FIG. 68 is a side view of a bottle neck having a retention
recess according to another aspect of the present invention.
[0153] FIG. 69 is a partial cross-section of the bottle depicted in
FIG. 68 shown surrounded by a closure capsule engaged with the
retention recess.
[0154] FIG. 70 is a detail view of the retention recess of FIG. 68
engaged with a protrusion on the sleeve of a closure capsule.
[0155] FIG. 71 is a cross-section of a stopper according to another
embodiment of the present invention, showing a two-piece stopper
having a rigid frame and soft elastic outer layer.
[0156] FIG. 72 is a cross-section of a stopper according to another
embodiment of the present invention, showing a short two-piece
rigid frame stopper which incorporates a planar bottle top
seal.
[0157] FIG. 73 is a side view of a bottle configured to accept a
threaded closure capsule according to an embodiment of the present
invention showing a choke ring and recessed portion of the
neck.
[0158] FIG. 74 is a side view of a Bordeaux style bottle
pattern.
[0159] FIG. 75 is a side view of a Rubato style bottle pattern.
[0160] FIG. 76 is a side view of a Burgundy style bottle
pattern.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0161] The present invention is an improved apparatus for opening
and sealing a bottle. Referring more specifically to the drawings,
for illustrative purposes the present invention is embodied in the
apparatus generally shown in FIG. 1 through FIG. 76. It will be
appreciated that the apparatus may vary as to configuration and as
to details of the parts, and that the method may vary as to the
specific steps and sequence, without departing from the basic
concepts as disclosed herein.
[0162] The present invention comprises several new closure designs
that have been divided into four (4) functional types, as outlined
in Table 1. The first type (Type 1) and third types (Type 3) are
for non-pressurized fluids (or fluids that are only slightly
pressurized), such as wine or juice, while the second (Type 2) and
fourth types (Type 4) are for pressurized fluids, such as
champagne, sparkling wines, and sparkling juice. Type 1 and Type 2
utilize natural cork sealing elements while Type 3 and Type 4
closure types utilize synthetic sealing elements, such as cork-like
stoppers, shorter plugs, planar seals, and bead seals. It should be
appreciated that although still wine (non-pressurized) could be
contained in Type 2 closure products, this would generally not be
as cost effective as closure solutions described for still wines.
Table 2 lists the usage of various embodiments described and shown
in the figures with the type of closure, whether a traditional
(natural) cork is utilized, and whether the cork is pulled with an
anchor.
[0163] The four general types of bottle closures are discussed in
detail in the following materials. A bottle closure design
designator will be referred to in association with the embodiments
described and shown in the drawings, the designator is not
associated with the figure numbering within the present application
and is to be considered only for the purposes of correlating
descriptive elements with specific designs as shown in the
drawings. Table 2 lists these design reference numbers along with
the associated figure number where described, the type of closure,
whether it utilizes a cork, and whether it utilizes an anchor.
[0164] FIG. 1 through FIG. 10 exemplify the use of multi-part cork
anchors within Type 1 closures. It should be appreciated that
although natural cork or synthetic cork is typical, stoppers may be
formed from alternative materials without departing from the
teachings of the present invention. The use of one-piece cork
anchors for Type 1 closures will be referred to herein generally as
Type A anchors, while multipart anchors described in the present
invention will generally be referred to as Type B anchors. A number
of new Type 1 cork-type closure designs are described. The use of a
multipart anchor brings with it a host of advantages, not the least
of which is in relation to the bottling process. These closures
generally comprise a shank member which is engaged by a head member
during the bottling process and a means for converting a rotational
torque to an axial cork-extraction force.
[0165] Instead of inserting an anchor into the stopper during the
bottling process as with Type A anchors, the anchor shanks of Type
B anchors can be pre-inserted into stoppers prior to delivery to
the winery, wherein additional anchor parts are then coupled to the
anchor shank in response to assembling the closure capsule, or a
portion thereof, to the bottle after sealing. For many bottling
applications this aspect of multipart anchoring provides important
benefits over the insertion of one-piece anchors into stoppers
during bottling, such as at a winery. Furthermore, use of multipart
anchoring removes a higher risk operation out of the bottling line
and puts it where tighter controls and better quality can be
maintained, and in which much higher failure rates can be
tolerated. The use of multipart anchors substantially reduces
requirements for modifying bottling lines and purchasing additional
equipment at the bottling facilities.
[0166] In utilizing a multipart anchor, a stopper with pre-inserted
anchor shank is compressed and installed to seal the bottle. An
anchor head (of one or more elements) is afterward secured onto the
anchor shank, such as part of a closure capsule. Another advantage
of this multipart approach is that the anchor head, with optional
reseal cap, can be preassembled into a closure capsule that can be
applied to the corked bottle on the bottling line in a single
operation where the closure capsule assembly is simply twisted down
onto the bottle neck upon which the anchor head latches onto the
anchor shank. Multipart anchors are represented in the figures
which are called out as Design 46, Design 51 and Design 52.
[0167] FIG. 1 through FIG. 3 exemplify a multi-part anchor system
10 that utilizes a socket for connecting the anchor shank to the
anchor head. This specific embodiment is referred to herein as
Design 51, and is shown by way of example and not of limitation. A
stopper 12, preferably a natural or synthetic cork, is shown
inserted into bottle 14. The upper portion of the bottle preferably
has a narrowed region N within the corkage area over which the
closure capsule will be received.
[0168] The narrowed region N is shown surrounded by an elongate
threaded sleeve portion of closure capsule 16. Exterior threads 18
protrude from the neck of bottle 14, preferably proximal to the top
of bottle 14. The bottle is shown with a recessed "choke" ring R
which facilitates grasping of the bottle (i.e. during bottle
manufacturing). The narrow neck portion N is configured to receive
sleeve closure capsule 16 so that the exterior of the sleeve
portion of the capsule can follow the bottle contour, which allow
effectively duplicating the look of traditionally wrapped
foil-finished bottle necks.
[0169] Threads 18 extending from a portion of the bottle neck
exterior are shown engaging threads 20 on the interior of closure
capsule 16. Rotation of capsule 16 on bottle 14 in a first
direction, preferably counterclockwise (when viewed looking down at
the top of the bottle), results in movement of the capsule 16
upward and away from the top of the bottle, while rotation in the
opposing direction tightens the threaded capsule down onto the
bottle neck. It should be appreciated that the lower portion of
capsule 16 with tapered interior T preferably forms a smooth
transition with bottle 14. The combination of narrowed neck N
overwrapped by closure capsule 16 provides the conventional
appearance of a foil-wrapped bottle, or other desired aesthetic
attributes, while providing the convenience of a twist-opening
bottle closure.
[0170] An anchor shank 22 is shown embedded into stopper 12, such
as with its retention threads 24 extending sufficiently far into
material of the stopper to ensure that axial upward force applied
to the top of the anchor shank will result in stopper removal and
not removal of anchor shank 22 from the stopper. It should be
appreciated that anchor shank 22 may be retained within stopper 12
utilizing alternative means for retaining the anchor within the
cork, such as barbed protrusions, one-way flexed protrusions, or
other forms of retention protrusions, injection of molten anchor
material into an aperture in the stopper to form anchor in-situ,
adhesives to retain the anchor shank, and various combinations
thereof, without departing from the teachings of the present
invention.
[0171] A preferred embodiment of the Type B anchor has a distal end
26 of anchor shank 22 embedded in a stopper of cork material while
preferably not extending through the sides or bottom of stopper 12.
A proximal end 28 of anchor shank 22 terminates in a connection
means configured for being engaged by the anchor head. By way of
example, the connection means comprises a socket 30 on the proximal
end of the anchor shank configured for being engaged by the flared
tip 32 of a stud 34 extending from the bottom of anchor head
36.
[0172] During stopper removal engagement lip 38 of closure capsule
16 axially drives anchor head 36 along with attached anchor shank
22 upwardly to pull stopper 12 from the neck of bottle 14 in
response to the rotation of closure capsule 16. It should be noted
that capsule 16 may be rotated without applying a significant
torque upon stopper 12, except that required to overcome friction
between adjacent parts that can move relative to each other. This
beneficially reduces the torque necessary for opening the bottle,
in that the torque applied to sleeve 16 is converted under
mechanical advantage to an axial extraction force without the need
for additional torque, supplied at no mechanical advantage, for
rotating the stopper. This means of providing axial coupling
without concomitant rotational coupling may comprise configuring
engagement lip 38 to slip when in rotating contact against anchor
head 36, and preferably configuring the interface of stud 34 of
anchor head 36 to slip when in rotating contact with socket 30. It
should also be appreciated that these rotational slip arrangements
do not alter the extent of engagement between the anchor head and
anchor shank, a problem which could arise for example if a threaded
coupling were utilized between the anchor head and shank that could
lead to disengagement or stopper damage.
[0173] It should be appreciated that once the stopper has been
removed, at least the sleeve portion of the capsule may generally
be threaded back down onto the bottle to retain the aesthetics of
the bottle neck and to pad the neck of the bottle to simplify
pouring bottle contents without chipping or breaking delicate wine
glasses and to reduce dripping during pouring. It should, however,
be appreciated that in certain applications it may be desirable to
limit the direction of rotation of the pulling sleeve or to prevent
it from being rethreaded fully onto the bottle neck, such as for
providing an indicator of a compromised seal.
[0174] FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 show more details of anchor shank 22 for
the two-part anchored closure of Design 51. An optional flange 40
is shown surrounding the proximal end 28 of anchor shank 22 which
increases the liquid-tight seal with the stopper, reduces oxygen
ingress into the stopper, and provides an insertion depth reference
that can assure that anchor shank 22 is always inserted to the
proper depth within stopper 12.
[0175] A means for engaging anchor shank 22 for driving it into
stopper 12, under axial and rotational urging, is shown implemented
as a drive coupling 42 exemplified as a polygonal recess in the
head of anchor shank 22, such as a hexagon, into which a tool may
be inserted for driving anchor shank 22 into stopper 12. It should
be appreciated that drive coupling 40 may be implemented using any
convenient form of mechanical coupling, such as known to one of
ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the teachings of
the present invention. Drive coupling means 40 may comprise any
recessed or protrusion capable of being engaged, such as a polygon
shape, and may include other means of engagement such as a Torx
drive, Phillips drive, or any other form of drive engagement
mechanism. An anchor socket 44 is shown with an underlying cavity
48 for securely engaging the tip 32 of stud 34 extending down from
anchor head 36. Anchor socket 44 is depicted as a generally
circular opening with a stress relieving notch 46 rendering the
opening sufficiently compliant for the tip 32 of stud 34 to snap
into anchor socket 44 (i.e. during bottling) and be retained within
cavity 48.
[0176] Type B anchors are to be generally applied as follows. An
anchor-shank 22 is driven into a prepared stopper, typically a cork
stopper, (such as having an appropriately sized aperture created
for receiving the anchor shank and optionally inserting a sealing
liquid or gel) to create a stopper that is ready for use during
bottling. Anchor-shank 22 may be driven into the stopper utilizing
drive coupling 42 or other drive coupling means. It is preferred
that preparation of the stopper with the anchor-shanks is a side
operation, not to be performed on the bottling line. In this way,
the bottling line is not affected by any anchor insertion failures,
and the anchor insertion process can take place in a more carefully
controlled environment than on the bottling line. During bottling,
a stopper with a pre-installed anchor is inserted into the neck of
the bottle to a sufficient depth, typically with the top of the
stopper and/or anchor being approximately flush with the top of the
bottle. A pre-assembled B type closure capsule including an
anchor-head and optional cap assembly is spun down onto the bottle,
wherein the anchor head engages and locks onto the anchor shank of
the installed stopper. It should be appreciated that after the
mechanically locked engagement occurs between the anchor head and
anchor shank, that the Type B anchor design operates in
substantially the same manner as a Type A anchor design.
[0177] A number of benefits can be derived from the use of Type B
anchors, including the following, which are provided by way of
example: the reduction of components to be installed on the
bottling line from three separate items for a Type A anchor, to
just one assembly of components for a Type B anchor, and the
reduction in the necessary application equipment required at the
bottling facility (i.e. winery) from three new machines for
installing Type A anchors to just one new machine needed to install
Type B anchors on the bottling line. It is contemplated that the
use of Type B anchors prepared outside of the bottling line, such
as by third-party stopper suppliers, can raise the overall
confidence level with utilizing this form of bottle closures and
shift the risk of application failures from winery bottling lines
to stopper suppliers.
[0178] By way of further example, the Type B anchors are
exemplified within additional closures, Design 46 and Design 52.
Design 46 reverses the stud to receptacle interface described for
Design 51.
[0179] FIG. 4 through FIG. 8 exemplify a stopper anchor 50, of
Design 46 which is a Type B multipart anchor shown retained within
the neck of a bottle. A stopper 12 is shown within the neck 14 of a
bottle, with the sleeve portion of a closure capsule 16 shown
surrounding the narrowed exterior N of the neck of bottle 14
wherein threads 18 on the exterior of at least a portion of the
bottle neck engage threads 20 on the interior of closure capsule
16. The base of the sleeve portion of closure capsule 16 is shown
with an inside taper T that is adapted to provide a smooth
transition with the exterior of the bottle. It should be
appreciated that this taper may be employed on the various
embodiments of the present invention, and can provide the look of a
foil wrapped bottle.
[0180] A recessed "choke" ring R is also shown beneath exterior
threads 18 to allow grasping of bottle 14 by tooling, such as
during bottle manufacturing. Anchor shank 52 having stopper
engagement means, depicted as threads 54, is shown secured within
stopper 12 with a distal end 56. The stopper engagement means, such
as threads 54, and distal end 56 are preferably configured to be
retained within stopper 12 without protruding through either the
sides or bottom of stopper 12.
[0181] A proximal end 58 of anchor shank 52 is shown as an
exterior-engaged coupling 60 that extends from the top end of
stopper 12. Exterior-engaged coupling 60 may comprise any desired
shape, such as a polygon, or it may otherwise incorporate exterior
protrusions or apertures configured for being engaged by a tool for
driving anchor shank 52 into stopper 12. By way of example,
exterior-engaged coupling 60 of anchor shank 52 is preferably
configured with three to six sides that may be engaged by a
nut-driver style tool for driving anchor shank 52 into stopper
12.
[0182] Extending from the proximal end 58 of anchor shank 52 is a
protrusion, such as a stud 62 extending from coupling 60,
configured for engaging an anchor head 64. An engagement means
between the protrusion and anchor head is exemplified as ribs 66,
shown in a preferred radially symmetric configuration as a series
of small frustoconical surfaces similar to a hose barb, which
preferably comprise an integral portion of the anchor shank. These
ribbed protrusions are received within a mating receptacle 68 in
anchor head 64. The figure depicts the use of a mating receptacle
68 having a triangular cross section that "catches" on the ribs of
the male stud 62 when it is inserted into the female receptacle to
"lock" in place for withstanding axial stopper extraction forces.
The receptacle 68 within female anchor head 64 is preferably
configured with hinged fingers 70a, 70b, 70c, with teeth for
engaging stud 62, such as similar to the retention geometries
utilized within common nylon cable ties, "Tie wraps", or similar
devices. Hinges 72, preferably at the base of hinged fingers
70a-70c, allow the fingers to be deflected in response to insertion
of the anchor stud 62. The mating between stud 62 and receptacle 68
could be generally thought of as comprising three cable ties
arranged in a triangle. Teeth on each of the three fingers, (three
teeth are depicted) are always engaged with the stud. The shape of
these teeth differs from flat tie wrap fingers because they must be
curved where they mate with the stud, yet they still must hinge
about a line. The length of the stud is sufficient to accommodate
variations in the vertical positioning of the stopper within the
bottle neck. In this way the stud will engage the receptacle
regardless of the stopper and/or anchor being positioned slightly
higher or lower than its nominal position. The length of the stud
preferably accommodates a positional variation of at least two
millimeters and more preferably a variation of up to plus or minus
two millimeters (four millimeters variation). It should be
appreciated that anchor head 64 is configured to rotate about stud
62 so that any rotational urging applied to anchor head 64 does not
force rotation of stopper 12 within bottle 14. The coupling 60 also
is configured for being engaged by a tool for driving anchor shank
52 into stopper 12 in response to applied axial and rotational
forces for advancing the threads of the anchor shank 52 into
stopper 12.
[0183] Also seen in the figures are a cap 74 with seal 76, said cap
shown stored with its periphery engaged in an annular recess 78
within closure capsule 16. It will be appreciated that inclusion of
such a cap provides an optional benefit that can increase seal
integrity, improve aesthetic appeal, and provide a ready means of
temporarily sealing the bottle top once the stopper (or other form
of stopper) has been removed. A recess 80 is shown in cap 74
adapted to a shape to fulfill aesthetic and/or packaging
considerations. For example, recess 80 may be adapted into a shape
wherein the bottle end appears similar to a traditional
foil-wrapped bottle, or may be adapted with a logo, embossed
emblem, or other elements, especially trade dress elements. It
should be noted that recess 80 and its associated use for trade
dress, such as for logos and so forth, can be generally applied to
all closure capsule embodiments described within the present
invention.
[0184] FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 illustrate the interlocking of (compliant)
fingers 70a-70c with ribs 66 are coupled through hinge 72 to engage
ribs 66 on stud 62. The use of these hinged fingers and ribs
provide a number of benefits, including (1) reducing the insertion
force required as the parts engage one another, and (2) gripping
the stud with increased force in a direction opposing an applied
axial cork-removal force. The axial force is shown in the figure as
F (this is the force necessary for removing the stopper from the
bottle). The horizontal component of the reaction force at the
hinge is shown as force F1, which represents the gripping force
which maintains the teeth in full contact under load. FIG. 7
graphically depicts the loading of one finger, while FIG. 8 is a
simplified free body diagram of the finger.
[0185] FIG. 9 and 10 illustrate another Type B closure 90 utilizing
a multipart anchored stopper having a split engagement stud,
referred to as Design 52. Anchor shank 92 with protruding threads
94 (or other stopper engagement means) has a distal end 96 and
proximal end 98 shown engaged within stopper 12 within the neck of
a bottle 14, which is surrounded by a closure capsule 16. The
interior of the base of closure capsule 16 is tapered T to conform
to the exterior of the bottle where it transitions into the
narrowed portion N of the neck configured for receiving the
capsule. Threads 18 protrude from the neck of bottle 14 for
engaging closure capsule 16. A recessed choke ring R is exemplified
beneath protruding threads 18 to facilitate grasping of the bottle
by tooling, such as during bottle manufacture.
[0186] An automatic insertion coupling 100 is shown in contact with
the top of the stopper and configured for being engaged by a tool
for driving anchor shank 92 into the stopper in response to applied
axial and rotational forces for advancing the threads of anchor
shank 92 into stopper 12 (i.e. a cork stopper). A split stud 102,
with slot 104, is shown extending from coupling 100 for engaging an
anchor head 106. It should be appreciated that slot 104 on split
stud 102 provides a measure of engagement compliance, because the
sides of stud 102 can flex inwardly in response to a sufficient
applied force during engagement.
[0187] FIG. 10 depicts a view of the anchor head 106 having a
recess 108 with aperture 110 for receiving split stud 102. As a
consequence of the compliance in split stud 102, the receptacle for
connecting with stud 102 may be implemented as a simple aperture
110, although more complex forms may be similarly utilized. A
radially symmetric female head is preferably utilized to catch the
split male stud 102. As anchor head 106 is applied to engage split
stud 102, the slot 104 deflects to allow engagement, while the
female anchor head 106 generally retains its shape with preferably
one or more fixed teeth engaging portions of split stud 102.
[0188] FIG. 11 through FIG. 16 exemplify embodiments of Type 2
closure designs according to the present invention which are
particularly well suited for use on sparkling wines, champagnes,
beers, or other pressurized fluids. It should be appreciated that
some forms of beers or similar beverages are bottled in a manner
similar to that of sparkling wine or champagne. These designs
include a safety mechanism which retains the stopper (typically
cork) during storage and shipping and prevents uncontrolled
explosive egress of the stopper from the bottle which poses a
safety hazard when utilizing conventional closures on pressurized
bottles. These closure designs each utilize a closure capsule which
engages exterior bottle threads for providing stopper pulling
leverage during stopper removal, although the designs differ from
each other in other important regards, such as how the stopper is
prevented from unrestricted egress.
[0189] Embodiments of these Type 2 closures are implemented
following many traditional aspects of pressurized fluids, such as
sparkling wines, including for instance the use of heavier
(thicker-walled) glass than required for still wines (or fluids), a
crown cap rim at the top of the bottle for use in the fermenting
process, and a large flange for use in the bottling process. The
Type 2 closures according to the present invention may utilize
either single piece anchors (Type A) or multipiece anchors (Type B)
without departing from the teachings herein.
[0190] FIG. 11 through FIG. 14 exemplify a Type 2 pressurized
closure 130 referred to as Design 20 shown sealing a glass bottle
132 having sufficient thickness to withstand the maximum pressure
of the filled bottle, which necks down to a narrowed region 134
configured to receive closure capsule 136, which is also referred
to herein as a "capsule". Threads 138 on the exterior of the neck
of bottle 132 engage the interior thread 140 of capsule 136 during
stopper extraction. An annular recess R beneath threads 138
facilitate grasping of the bottle by tooling, such as during bottle
manufacturing.
[0191] Closure 130 utilizes a nominally cylindrical stopper element
142 (natural or synthetic) that is substantially fully inserted
into the bottle during sealing, with no traditionally bulbous
portion extending above the bottle. It will be appreciated that
traditional champagne and sparkling wine corks are initially
cylindrical with a portion of the stopper (approximately 0.75
inches) protruding from the bottle after corking. In a traditional
pressurized champagne or sparkling wine closure, the top portion of
the stopper is not compressed by the bottle and generally forms a
"bulb" on the top of the bottle that traditionally is manually
grasped and manipulated to force stopper extraction.
[0192] FIG. 11 depicts closure 130 with a stopper element 142 into
which an anchor 144 is engaged with anchor head 146. It should be
noted that the length of stopper portion 142 inserted into bottle
132 is typically less than the length of stoppers utilized for Type
1, non-pressurized, closures. Type 2 anchor 144 is preferably
shorter than a Type 1 anchor to accommodate a shorter than
traditional stopper insertion length. Closure 130 is similar in
many respects to Type 1 closures described earlier, with some
notable exceptions.
[0193] It will be appreciated that the inside diameter 150 of
closure capsule 148 extending above the bottle is preferably
smaller than the outside diameter of the stopper to prevent
unrestrained egress of stopper 142 from the bottle, thereby
ensuring that stopper travel from the bottle is limited by the
movement of capsule 148. This necked-down diameter 150 of the
cork-pulling capsule 148 prevents uncontrolled explosive stopper
egress during stopper removal.
[0194] An optional cap 152 with seal liner 154 (or other seal
fitment) is shown retained in closure capsule 148, such as may be
utilized for resealing the bottle after removal of the capsule with
attached cork. A means for grasping cap 152 is shown provided by
way of decorative access notches 156 allowing the user to grasp and
rotate the cap, while providing a desired stylish external shape.
It will be appreciated that other configurations of cap 152 and
sleeve 148 can be utilized so that the cap may be grasped for
removal and use, for example annular portions extending above the
sleeve of capsule 136, incorporating tear-away portions on the top
of sleeve 148, including manual engagement structures within the
cap, and similar adaptations which should be obvious to one skilled
in the art in view of the teachings herein.
[0195] It should be appreciated that the stopper with embedded
anchor within this embodiment is generally inseparable from the
capsule (sleeve) as a consequence of the stopper retention feature
of the capsule (notwithstanding manually unscrewing stopper 142
from shank 144). It may be preferable in some applications to
configure cap 152 so that it cannot be removed from closure capsule
148, such as by bonding it to the capsule.
[0196] It will be appreciated that during use, as capsule 148 is
rotated and stopper 142 is extracted from bottle 132, capsule 148
is still threadably engaged with bottle 132. It is preferable that
the length of engagement between the threaded portion 138 of
capsule 138 and the bottle be in excess of that required to
disengage the stopper. For example the capsule remaining engaged
with the bottle for at least one-half revolution, or more
preferably at least approximately one full revolution, in excess of
the length required to extract the stopper. It should be
appreciated that the length of engagement should be sufficient,
despite variations in stopper size and mounting, for the threadably
engaged capsule to restrain the stopper to prevent unrestricted,
explosive, egress of the cork. Thus, the stopper is retained by the
capsule as it is extracted from the bottle thereby preventing the
stopper from becoming a projectile. The threaded length for this
Type 2 closure is thereby preferably about the same as for still
wine because the stopper in sparkling wine bottles extends only
about one inch (1.0") into the bottle, whereas it traditionally
extends from one and one half, to two inches (1.5" to 2.0") into
the bottles of still wine.
[0197] FIG. 12 through FIG. 14 illustrate outside geometries for a
capsule, Design 20, which can be tailored in shape in order to
resemble the traditional look of a foil-covered cork-sealed bottle
of sparkling wine, and/or champagne. FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 depict
views of a sealed bottle, while FIG. 14 depicts a capsule removed
from the bottle. The function of the reseal cap, with liner or
fitment, fulfills the same need as reseal caps described for use
with still wine. FIG. 12 through FIG. 14 depict the capsule with a
scalloped feature 156 to aid in removing the reseal cap from the
capsule.
[0198] Other variations of the reseal cap, with liner or fitment,
may be implemented with a fully or partially exposed reseal cap,
wherein the reseal cap protrudes from the capsule to be easily
gripped by consumers when removing it from the capsule. The cap can
be configured to allow removal prior to uncorking of the bottle.
The cap may snap into the capsule, be threadably engaged therein,
or be temporarily retained by other means prior to being removed
and threadably engaged for resealing the top of the bottle.
[0199] FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 depict embodiments of Type 2 closures
according to the invention which are implemented without the use of
stopper anchors, although they may utilize a conventional stopper
(shown in phantom) for sealing the bottle, such as a champagne
cork. FIG. 15 depicts a closure 170 particularly well suited for
pressurized fluids, that is referred to as Design 28, with a
bulbous stopper portion extending above the bottle as found in
traditional champagne and sparkling wine products. A bottle 172 is
shown with narrowed neck 174 and engagement ring 176, beneath which
is formed a ledge leading to an annular recessed portion R which
may be grasped by tooling during bottle manufacture. Engagement
ring 176 is configured with external threads 178 over which a
closure capsule 180 is threaded having internal threads 182 and
stopper engagement means, such as extraction flange 184, as shown.
The base of capsule 180 is preferably configured with an interior
taper T for fitting capsule 180 to the contour of the bottle
exterior. Extraction flange 184 is configured having an aperture
smaller than the bulbous top portion 188 of stopper 186 which
extends above the top of bottle 172.
[0200] The bottling sequence generally comprises threading capsule
180 onto bottle 172 until flange 184 is positioned for stopper
engagement. The lower portion of stopper 188 is then compressed
during insertion into bottle 172, with the bulbous uncompressed
portion 188 protruding above the bottle. A cap 190 is then joined
to capsule 180, such as within a recess 192.
[0201] Preferably cap 190 is permanently retained by capsule 180
for restricting the egress of stopper 186, and thereby preventing a
stopper from becoming a projectile. Cap 190 is shown threadably
engaged with capsule 180, although it may be additionally, or
alternatively, attached by thermal welding, adhesive bonding,
snapping, or any other convenient form of retention. Cap 190 is
shown formed from plastic, although it may be alternatively formed
as a wire cage, netting, or any other convenient form capable of
retaining the stopper from uncontrolled egress. As the closure is
rotated and the stopper is pulled out of the bottle, the capsule
remains engaged with the bottle. Permanent retention of cap 190
onto capsule 180 results in holding the stopper in place on the
bottle during storage and prevents accidental removal of the cap,
which would otherwise allow uncontrolled explosive stopper egress
from the bottle.
[0202] It should be appreciated that cap 190 may alternatively be
removably retained on capsule 180, such as for use as a reseal cap.
To assure controlled stopper egress it may be beneficial to prevent
the user from removing cap 190 from capsule 180 prior to removal of
capsule 180 from bottle 172. Capsule 180 may be configured with a
means to lock cap 190 in place until the stopper is removed, such
as utilizing a compression mode which applies an outward radial
pressure when capsule 180 is threadably engaged on bottle 172 to
engage vertical ridges peripheral to cap 190 with vertical ridges
within the recess 192 of the capsule. As a result, capsule 190 may
be removed from bottle 172 only after the capsule is at least
partially threaded off of bottle 172, thereby releasing the
engagement between the interlocking vertical ridges.
[0203] The length of engagement of the threaded portion of the
capsule and bottle should be at least approximately one half of a
rotation, or more preferably approximately one full rotation beyond
the extension required to unseal the stopper from the bottle. It
will be appreciated that the interface may be configured to require
additional turns prior to removal; however, reducing the amount of
turns below the one half turn could result in uncontrolled stopper
egress with sufficient variation in stopper insertion or size. Thus
the stopper is retained while being extracted to prevent the
stopper from becoming a projectile due to the explosive exit force
resulting from the pressure inside the bottle.
[0204] The outside dimensions of the capsule as mentioned
previously can be tailored in shape for aesthetic purposes, such as
to resemble the traditional look of a foil covered sparkling wine
bottle. One particularly attractive design fabricates the capsule
and cap from transparent (clear or tinted) polycarbonate in order
to display high quality corks with promotional emblems or printing.
It should be appreciated that the use of transparent elements
(clear or tinted) to allow viewing of elements underneath is a
feature that may be applied to all of the closure capsules, or
portions thereof, described within the present invention.
[0205] FIG. 16 exemplifies an additional Type 2 closure 210 having
a separate reseal cap, and which is referred to as Design 54. Cap
190 of FIG. 15 is adapted in FIG. 16 as a cap 212 that includes a
reseal cap retainer structure 214, for storing reseal cap 216 prior
to uncorking the bottle. Reseal cap 216 preferably having a planar
seal or fitment 218 (i.e. flat, shaped, and/or plug style) for
engaging the opening in the bottle to prevent the pressurized
contents from going "flat" after it is resealed with this cap.
[0206] FIG. 17 through FIG. 26 exemplify a closure utilizing a
stopper similar to that of FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 in that the stopper
is configured with an extraction engagement structure that may be
engaged by the closure capsule. The closure is preferably
implemented as a Type 3 closure utilizing a synthetic stopper
material; however, it may be configured as a Type 1 closure if a
sufficiently robust natural cork material is utilized or the
natural cork material is structurally augmented in some manner to
provide sufficient strength. The inclusion of a grasping structure
on the stopper eliminates the need for a stopper anchor. This style
of closure can be implemented in a number of different ways.
[0207] In a first approach the closure capsule is joined to the
bottle prior to insertion of the cork, while in a second approach
the stopper is inserted prior to joining the closure capsule. The
closure capsule is preferably configured with stopper grasping
structure that engages the extraction engagement structure integral
with the stopper in a unidirectional manner for extracting the
stopper element.
[0208] FIG. 17 exemplifies a stopper 230 whose extraction
engagement structure 232 comprises a recessed area, preferably an
annular recess, near the top of the cork, which is configured to
protrude above the bottle top when the stopper seals the bottle
neck opening. FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 illustrate a closure capsule 234
comprising sleeve 236, head portion 238 and stopper grasping
structure 240 which is configured to engage stopper 230 for
extraction and which surrounds opening 242 as seen in FIG. 19.
Closure capsule 234 is configured for being received on a bottle
244 shown in FIG. 20, into which stopper 230 has already been
inserted. The interior of the base of closure capsule 234 is
tapered T to fit the exterior of the bottle. As closure capsule 234
is fitted to a corked bottle, protrusions within grasping structure
240 flex to allow the capsule to pass down over the top portion of
the stopper with minimal force. Once engaged within the extraction
engagement structure 232, these same protrusions engage the stopper
to prevent stopper movement in the opposing direction. FIG. 20
depicts the closure capsule after being fully threaded down onto
bottle 244.
[0209] An optional cap 246 is shown engaged within a recess at the
top of head portion 238. Cap 246 may be configured to provide a
secondary seal (the cork or other form of stopper providing the
primary seal) to keep oxygen out of the wine and to keep the wine
from leaking out of the package, in the event that the stopper
leaks or allows oxygen migration into the wine. A variety of
sealing mechanisms may be utilized separately or in combination,
including integrated sealing protrusions, o-rings, flexible fins,
soft sealant compounds, sealant layers, and combinations
thereof.
[0210] FIG. 21 is a detailed view of an engagement finger 248 with
a hinged base 250 and stopper engagement notch 252 shown engaging
the portion of the stopper 230 on the upper portion of extraction
engagement structure 232. Engagement finger 248 can deflect toward
the exterior of closure capsule 234 as the capsule is threaded down
on the bottle and over the protruding portion of stopper 230.
However, once fitted on the bottle as shown in FIG. 20 and FIG. 21,
it will be appreciated that threading off of capsule 234 from
bottle 244 will result in simultaneous extraction of stopper 230
from bottle 244. It should also be appreciated that although a
recess or other graspable structure is preferred on stopper 230,
that engagement fingers 240 may be configured for sufficiently
grasping the uncompressed exterior of a conventionally shaped
stopper to extract it in response to unthreading of the closure
capsule from the bottle. Preferably, engagement fingers 248 are
configured to rotate about stopper 230 under the axial force
applied by the rotation of capsule 234 without applying a
substantial torque upon stopper 230. The rotational slippage of
fingers 248 about stopper 230 reduces the amount of torque required
of the user for opening the bottle while eliminating the need to
increase the strength of finger 248 structures to withstand the
torque.
[0211] FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 depict another embodiment of a closure
capsule 270 which in this case is threaded down onto the bottle
prior to stopper insertion. Closure capsule 270 comprises a sleeve
272, with head portion 274 within which are disposed engagement
fingers 276. FIG. 23 depicts closure capsule 270 threaded onto
bottle 278 having external threads 280, after the insertion of
stopper 282. The closure capsule is shown after the application of
reseal cap 284 with under-cap seal 286, into recess 288 on capsule
270 for storage on the bottle prior to use after the bottle is
uncorked. Threads 280 on the exterior of bottle 278 are fully
engaged with threads 290 on the interior of sleeve 272. A choke
ring R is depicted on bottle 278 to facilitate bottle manufacture.
Sleeve 272 of capsule 270 is disposed within the narrowed portion N
of the bottle neck and is preferably configured with the base of
sleeve 272 being tapered T to fit the exterior of the bottle at the
transition to the narrowed portion N to simulate the appearance of
a foil-wrapped bottle. It will be appreciated that the shape of
engagement fingers 276 is configured to allow the stopper to be
inserted up to the recess in the cork, whose edge is engaged by
engagement fingers 276, restraining further stopper motion and
allowing the stopper to be extracted when closure capsule 270 is
threaded off, unscrewed, from bottle 278.
[0212] FIG. 24 through FIG. 26 exemplify an alternative embodiment
of engaging a cork, wherein a protruding element at the top of the
stopper is engaged during stopper extraction. A stopper 310 is
shown by way of example having a cap piece 312 as seen in FIG. 24
and FIG. 25. Cap piece 312 of stopper 310 preferably is adapted
with indentations about its periphery which simplify threading on a
capsule over a bottle containing stopper 310. Preferably, stopper
310 is a synthetic cork or polymer-based stopper. Stopper 310 with
cap 312 is depicted inserted within bottle 314 in FIG. 26 over
which closure capsule 316 has been threaded. A head portion 318 of
capsule 316 contains a plurality of engagement fingers 320
configured for being slid over cap 312 of stopper 310 to engage the
underside surface for stopper extraction.
[0213] Cap 312 on stopper 310 may be modified in alternative ways
to deform so that the cap portion of the stopper passes through the
capsule as the capsule is threaded down onto the bottle neck, but
that does not allow the cap of the stopper to pass through the
capsule again when the capsule is unscrewed. Moreover, the cap of
the stopper preferably provides an adequate seat for being engaged
by the top of the capsule during stopper extraction.
[0214] It should be appreciated that with any of the described
approaches, the stopper and cap configuration must be compatible
with the stopper installation process. A typical stopper
installation utilizes a cylindrical compression sleeve that
compresses the stopper (stopper) before it is pushed into the
bottle, and involves a substantial axial force applied to the top
of the stopper to push the stopper into the bottle. It should also
be appreciated that in these modified synthetic stoppers, the
entire stopper can be homogeneous, formed of joined elements, or be
molded around an extraction engagement structure or anchor
structure without departing from the teachings of the present
invention.
[0215] When the closure capsule is twisted on before the stopper is
installed, the top inside of the capsule should include a sealing
fin that is pressure fitted against the top outside of the bottle
as the capsule is twisted down onto the bottle, to maintain a seal
in the presence of the vacuum that is pulled during stopper
insertion. Then the modified top of the stopper need only provide a
place for the capsule to push up against and provide sufficient
strength to tolerate approximately one-hundred fifty pounds (150
lbs) of axial force. It should be noted that the twisting motion of
the capsule can either cause the capsule to slip relative to the
stopper or to turn the stopper within the bottle, or a combination
thereof, any of which can be supported by these designs. It should
be appreciated, however, as with other embodiments described
herein, that it is generally preferable that the capsule be allowed
to rotate independently of the cork, whereby only the axial
displacement of the sleeve is translated to the stopper during
extraction.
[0216] FIG. 27 through FIG. 31 depict embodiments of Type 3
closures according to the invention which are preferably
implemented as synthetic closure designs. The Type 3 synthetic
closures are particularly well suited for use with still wines, or
slightly pressurized fluids. The synthetic closure application may
also be referred to as a cork-free design. These Type 3 designs
provide a seal by insertion of a synthetic plug into the bottle
neck that resembles a short non-compressed cork, or "bartop" cork.
Bartop corks are typically inserted without being compressed first
in a corking machine. The Type 3 closures may be implemented on
closures having synthetic plug-type sealing elements, or according
to numerous variations of the bartop cork following the inventive
principles.
[0217] FIG. 27, FIG. 28 and FIG. 29 exemplify an embodiment of a
closure capsule 330 with a "bartop" cork alternative referred to
herein as Design 45. Preferably, this design and all its variations
result in a closure comprising a single piece both before and after
installation. As with other designs of the present invention, a
threaded outer sleeve of the closure capsule is configured to
overwrap a narrowed portion N along the bottle neck having external
threading, and preferably also configured with a choke ring R. It
is preferred that the base of the closure capsule have an interior
taper T for conforming to the bottle exterior when threaded down on
the bottle neck, which can provide the appearance of a
foil-finished bottle.
[0218] FIG. 27 and FIG. 28 depict a capsule 330 fabricated as an
insert into which a sealing plug is molded, as shown in FIG. 29, or
alternatively the capsule and plug can be co-molded. Sleeve 332 of
capsule 330 is configured with interior threads 334 for engaging a
threaded portion of the bottle neck, a preferably tapered base
portion T for providing a substantially smooth interface with the
bottle. A recess 336 in the interior of the cap portion is
preferably configured with protrusions 338 (such as interior
ridges) for a molded plug (not shown) to adhere to. Preferably, the
sealing plug may be insert molded or co-molded into the capsule
using traditional synthetic cork materials as, or similar to, those
described by synthetic cork patents by SupremeCorq.TM., such as
U.S. Pat. No. 5,480,915, incorporated herein by reference.
[0219] FIG. 29 exemplifies closure capsule 330 shown with a molded
plug sealing the mouth of a bottle. Capsule 330 is shown retained
on bottle 340 having exterior threads 342, narrowed neck N, and
choke ring R. The tapered T base portion of closure capsule 330
allows the base of the capsule to closely conform to the bottle
exterior at the base of the capsule. It should be appreciated that
the lower portion of the capsule may be tapered within any of the
various closure embodiments described herein. A plug 344 is shown
molded within recess 336 over protrusions 338.
[0220] Preferably, the plug is co-molded or insert molded directly
into the capsule. It will be appreciated that extruded synthetic
corks may be fabricated in a variety of ways and materials,
examples of materials and fabrication being described in synthetic
cork patents, such as patents by Nomacorc.TM., including U.S. Pat.
No. 6,355,320, or patents by Neocork.TM., including U.S. Pat. No.
6,153,275, which are incorporated herein by reference.
[0221] FIG. 30 and FIG. 31 exemplify another embodiment of closure
370 having a two-part top with either a molded plug insert or an
extruded and bonded plug insert. The closure 370 is also referred
to herein as Design 55, and has a sleeve 372 configured for
surrounding bottle neck 374. Sleeve 372 has internal threads 376
for engaging mating threads 378 above choke ring 379 on bottle 374,
and an upper surface 380 for engaging a cap 382 with underside
recess 384 into which a plug 386 is retained. A shallow top side
recess 388 is additionally shown as an optional decorative element
to better simulate the top of a foil finished bottle top.
[0222] If the sleeve and cap are not bonded to one another, then it
is preferable that an overwrap sleeve be utilized for providing a
tamper indicator. It is generally preferred, however, that after
fabricating sleeve 372 and cap 382 with plug 386 as separate
elements depicted in FIG. 31, they be permanently, or removably,
joined to one another, such as by mechanical means, welding,
adhesives and/or another convenient form of bonding, as shown
inserted in a bottle in FIG. 30. Removable joining allows the cap
to be separated from the sleeve to use as a so called "bartop" cap
while retaining the sleeve which can be used to aid removal of the
cork whenever necessary. Sleeve 372 is preferably configured with a
sharp upper perimeter to facilitate drip-resistant pouring from the
bottle. It should also be appreciated that plug 386 may be
fabricated from natural or synthetic cork materials as a sealing
element which is bonded in place within the capsule, which may then
be more properly considered a Type 1 closure.
[0223] FIG. 32 through FIG. 43 describe embodiments of a cork-free
closure having a threaded sleeve for opening the closure. These
designs can be utilized to implement both Type 3 and Type 4
closures.
[0224] Type 4 closures according to the present invention reduce
the risks associated with explosive egress of stoppers, such as can
arise when opening sparkling wine or other pressurized fluid
containers. A preferred embodiment of this Type 4 closure utilizes
a sealing element similar in shape to that of a plastic champagne
stopper. Unlike synthetic corks, these forms of plastic stoppers
have been used extensively for sparkling wine (i.e. "champagnes")
and other pressurized fluids and represent a versatile form of
closure that may be utilized with any fluid type, and in particular
both still and sparkling beverages. Type 4 designs described by the
present invention provide a safety mechanism which retains the
stopper during both storage and shipping, while further preventing
the stopper from becoming a ballistic projectile as a result of
uncontrolled stopper egress as the bottle is opened. One method of
readily implementing this safety feature on closure capsules is by
increasing thread length of the sleeve portion of the capsule
beyond the plug length as described for Type 2 closure designs,
while simultaneously restraining the plug from leaving the
proximity of the capsule.
[0225] FIG. 32 exemplifies a Type 4 embodiment of a closure 390
which is particularly well suited for use on sparkling wines or
similar beverages and which is also referred to herein as Design
44. A sleeve 392 is shown surrounding the neck of bottle 394 having
external threading that engages a threaded interior 396 of the
sleeve. A plug engagement portion 398 of sleeve 392 preferably
extends past the opening of bottle 394 to engage a plug 400. The
circumferential sides of plug 400 are configured to engage and seal
with the interior of bottle neck 394, preferably at least one, and
more preferably two, ridges protrude from plug 400 to increase seal
integrity. The underside of head 404 of plug 400 is configured for
receiving an axial force from contact with engagement portion 398
of sleeve 392, which applies extraction force against plug 400 in
response to rotation of sleeve 392. Preferably plug 400 and
engagement portion 398 are configured to slide by one another and
independently rotate, so that the torque supplied on sleeve 392
need not overcome the rotational friction of plug 400 within the
bottle.
[0226] Design 44 is shown utilizing similar capsule 392 and cap 406
components as described for previous Type 1 closure capsule
enclosures; however, the periphery 408 of cap 406 is preferably
permanently bonded to the sleeve (capsule) 392, such as within a
recess 410, (or semi-permanently joined, such as an unlockable
configuration) to prevent the sealing element (plug) from working
loose during shipping or storage, and so that the bonded cap
prevents uncontrolled explosive egress of plug 400.
[0227] Preferably head 404 of plug 400 is not attached to the
underside of cap 406, wherein plug 400 is trapped under cap 406
while being free to rotate and move slightly to accommodate
sealing. The cap and capsule may be manufactured from any
convenient and easily workable material, such as those proposed for
Type 1 closures, one such preferred material being polycarbonate.
The sealing plug 400 is preferably manufactured from a softer
material than sleeve 392 or cap 406. By way of example and not of
limitation, sealing plug 400 may be manufactured from soft plastics
such as low density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene, or similar
polymeric materials. The thickness of the LDPE or other plastic
utilized can be increased in order to limit the extent of gas
permeation through the plug.
[0228] FIG. 33 through FIG. 38 depict by way of example and not of
limitation, a number of preferred geometries into which plug 400
may be manufactured. FIG. 33 depicts an "open-end" configuration
430 having a hollow open end 432 and protruding ridges 434 about
the exterior of plug 430. Variations of "H" plug configurations
440, 450, are shown in FIG. 34 and FIG. 35, one having a
non-planar, preferably curving, seal member 442, and the latter
having a straight sealing member 452. The sides of the plugs
terminate in open ringed top head 444, 454. Open top configurations
460, 470 are shown in a long and short version respectively in FIG.
36 and FIG. 37. These open-top 462, 472 plugs are preferably formed
with sealing ridges 464, 474 about their periphery and a closed
bottom 466, 476.
[0229] It should be appreciated that a wide variety of closed plug
shapes may be created which seal the opening in the bottle and
provide a structure which may be engaged by the closure capsule.
Furthermore, the shape and material composition of the interior of
the plug can determine the force required to compress the plug when
inserted into the bottle. By way of a further example of this
variety, a two piece plug 480 is shown in FIG. 38 with a
non-sealing head member 482 joined to an open top seal 484 having
sides 486, preferably ridged. The head member 482 is shown engaged
with a seal 484 at junction 488, such as by joining mechanically,
weldment, adhesives or combinations thereof. To prevent leakage,
the sealing element should not have material interruptions that
disrupt the circumferential seal with the bottle.
[0230] It has been found for conventional still wine bottles that
the plug will be retained in the bottle without the need of a
retention cap if plugs extend down into the bottle at least one and
one half (1.5) inches, which is approximately two bottle-neck
inside-diameters. In this case cap and capsule can remain separate
as they are in Type 1 closures, because the shape of the inside of
the bottle neck holds a plug of sufficient length.
[0231] FIG. 39 exemplifies an embodiment of a one-piece plug
capsule 490 which is also referred to herein as Design 40. This
readily manufactured closure 490 integrates the plug into the
capsule. A bottle 492 is shown sealed with a plug capsule 490
having a sleeve 494 with internal threading 496 for being engaged
by exterior threads 498 on bottle 492. A head portion 500 spans the
top while a plug 502, preferably with ridges 504 extends down into
the interior of bottle 492 whose top is sealed by head portion
500.
[0232] A sufficiently compliant material should be selected for
plug capsule 490 to provide sufficient seal integrity; however,
sufficient rigidity is also desirable to translate rotational force
on sleeve 494 to an axial extraction force on plug 502. It will be
appreciated that the rotation of sleeve 494 is not in this case
independent of the rotation of plug 502, wherein the depth of plug
502 and use of ringed seal protrusions can be adapted so that undue
torque is not necessary for removing the closure from the bottle.
By way of example, the one piece closure 490 may be manufactured
from a low density polyethylene (LDPE), a polypropylene, or various
other similarly soft plastics. The thickness of the soft plastic
material may be selected to be a sufficient thickness to adequately
limit gas permeation. It should be readily appreciated that Design
40 can be practiced with any convenient plug style, such as those
described in FIG. 33 through FIG. 38, those known in the art,
combinations thereof, or variations obvious to one skilled in the
art.
[0233] Furthermore, it should be appreciated with the one-piece
closure and other cork-pulling style closures described previously,
that the capsule and bottle are designed to threadably engage one
another. The capsule, as well as preferably the bottle neck, are
designed to integrate with one another. It should be noted that
different capsule styles may be utilized on a single threaded
bottle neck design, while many bottle neck styles may conversely be
utilized with a single capsule style. It is contemplated that
bottle necks will be standardized for use with the cork pulling
capsules of the present invention, wherein manufacturers and
bottlers can vary the structure, configuration, and ornamental
design of the capsules to suit aesthetic, cost, and marketing
considerations.
[0234] FIG. 40 through FIG. 43 describe variations of plug to
bottle sealing as examples of bottle shapes near the bottle neck
opening. The relatively large dimensional tolerances on bottles,
resulting from conventional glass manufacturing processes, have led
to the predominant use of certain shapes within the top portion of
the bottle neck, such as the upper one half (1/2) inch. Typically
the interior of bottle necks as represented by FIG. 40 and FIG. 41
have at least two tapers, a top taper and a bottom taper. The
bottom taper 510, 512, typically tapers in toward the center of the
bottle neck as you move up the neck, while the top tapers may taper
inward 514 or outwardly 516. The bottom taper is always tapered in
as to retain the cork. It is preferred that the sealing element
provide sealing near the top of the bottle. FIG. 42 and FIG. 43
depict a plastic plug 518 with sealing ridges 520 engaged in the
neck of the inward 514 and outward 516 tapers described.
[0235] Sealing surfaces of sealing plugs could extend down into the
interior of the bottle neck for a distance of up to approximately
the length of a traditional cork. Although any of these sealing
plugs, or corks may be utilized, it should be appreciated that the
critical sealing surface is the one positioned near the top of the
bottle. A reverse tapered condition, as shown in FIG. 40 and FIG.
42, can result in unseating of circumferential sealing surfaces
further down the bottle neck. If no sealing surface is present
proximal the top of the neck opening and a reverse taper condition
is present, leaking will occur. The placement of this sealing
element proximal the top of the neck is an important consideration
for any plug design, in particular the design of short plugs. In
the case of a straight neck or tapered out neck, as shown in FIG.
41 and FIG. 43 the design retains many sealing surfaces into
contact.
[0236] For a less expensive wine closure solution, and one that
eliminates all drawbacks of corks and cork-like stoppers, stoppers
can be eliminated altogether and replaced with novel forms of
screw-caps. A substantial impediment to wider adoption of
screw-type caps by the wine industry is the association of these
closures with lower quality wines. The screw-cap appearance,
however, can be avoided on the finished wine package by utilizing
the closure capsules according to the present invention on bottle
designs adapted for receiving them. Non-cork designs utilizing the
closure capsules and bottles of the present invention are virtually
indistinguishable from a foil-capsule-finished bottle, at least
until the bottle has been opened. These screw capsules have a skirt
which is molded to mimic the look of the foil wrapping over a
traditional bottleneck. The skirt itself may be configured to
separately engage the threads of the bottle to hide them after the
cap closure has been removed. Additionally, these closure capsules
can be configured for being retained on the bottle, or more
preferably rethreaded back onto the bottle, after the sealing
element has been removed. Removable caps may be utilized for
resealing the bottle and hiding bottle threads, while the sleeve
may retained on the bottle neck or configured for being rethreaded
onto the bottle neck to increase aesthetics, and optionally provide
a drip-resistant pouring spout.
[0237] FIG. 44 through FIG. 47 exemplify an embodiment of a
rotatable sleeve closure capsule 530 which seals a bottle without a
plug and is referred to herein as Design 21. In this embodiment,
the bottle is sealed over its opening (rim of the pouring spout)
instead of within the interior of the bottle opening by means of a
plug or stopper (i.e. cork). The Design 21 closure is exemplified
as a generally two-piece design comprising an elongated sleeve,
length exceeding diameter, joined to a cap with integral seal. A
bottle 532 is shown in a preferred configuration with a shaped
narrowed neck region 534, such as within the corkage area of the
bottle, with exterior threads 536 configured to threadably engage
the threaded interior of a sleeve 538 and with a choke ring R for
grasping the bottle during manufacturing. Closure capsule 530 is
configured to slip over bottle 532 and to engage a cap 540 having a
seal 542 configured for retention in contact with the opening of
bottle 532 when capsule 530 is threaded down on the bottle neck.
The combination of sleeve 538 held in a recess of shaped neck 534
provides a smooth transition that appear like a conventional
foil-wrapped cork-stopped wine bottle, although other desired
aesthetic configurations may be supported. Threading 544 on the
interior of cap 540 engages exterior threads 536 of bottle 532.
[0238] Sleeve 538 is shown preferably joined to cap 540 with a
mechanical latching mechanism 546, such as a sharp lip on the
sleeve engaging a sharp edge on cap 540, which is best seen in the
detail view of FIG. 45. Sleeve 538 is shown preferably retained to
bottle 532 by fingers 548 which engage the recessed choke ring R in
the exterior of bottle 532. In operation, as cap 540 is rotated,
fingers 548 engage bottle 532 in choke ring R and deflect causing
the area at the base of the fingers to displace outwardly, thereby
changing the interface angle of the mechanical attachment which
releases cap 540 from its attachment with sleeve 538. The cap 540
may then be removed from bottle 532 while retaining sleeve 538 on
the bottle. Cap 540 may also be rethreaded on bottle 532 at any
time.
[0239] FIG. 46 depicts a tamper-indication feature for engagement
of substantially straight fingers 548 engaging a recess, such as
the choke ring R depicted in FIG. 45. This straight-fingered
embodiment allows sleeve 538 to rotate on bottle 532 unhindered by
the fingers, but it preferably snaps free of the recess when
opening is attempted. FIG. 47 by contrast depicts ratcheting
fingers 552 engaging ratchet indentations 554 (not shown). The
rotation of sleeve 538 with ratchet fingers 552 about bottle 532
with ratchet indentations 554 requires some increased torque in a
first direction, but substantially increased torque for movement in
a second direction. Both embodiments provide a tamper-indicator and
prevent a loss of seal integrity from inadvertent capsule rotation,
while providing a means by which cap 540 may be separated from
sleeve 538.
[0240] It should be appreciated that the mechanical engagement of
sleeve 538 with cap 540 may utilize other forms of both joining and
disconnection, for example having the sleeve and cap break away
from one another in response to rotational forces, the radial
displacement of the cap or sleeve, such as in response to
engagement of engagement fingers with the bottle, or ratcheting
forces wherein the periphery of the sleeve and cap are
separated.
[0241] Cap 540 may be configured to seal down upon bottle 532 with
any convenient seal element, such as the flat seal 532 as shown in
FIG. 45, or alternatively shaped seals which may be joined to or
integrated with cap 540. Also, other forms of stoppers that are not
joined to the capsule may be combined with the tamper features
describes in FIG. 44 through FIG. 48. It should also be noted that
other forms of tamper-indicators may be alternatively, or
additionally, implemented using a frangible indicia element
spanning between the capsule and the exterior of the bottle. A torn
or broken indicia being indicative of a broken bottle seal. By way
of further example, a neckband label may be applied over the
boundary between the bottom of the capsule and the glass neck for
providing a form of tamper indication. Other forms of tamper
labeling that may be provided include, wax-stamp impressions,
ribbons, threads, and similar frangible elements.
[0242] Furthermore, tamper-indicating mechanisms may be employed
which prevent unintentional disengagement of the bottle seal, such
as by limiting capsule rotation. By way of example, the direction
or extent of capsule travel can be constrained to require high
torque forces prior to compromising the bottle seal and while
providing a suitable indication when the bottle seal has been
compromised.
[0243] Other tamper-indication features that may be utilized within
the present invention may be implemented by having portions of the
capsule separate under the forces involved with breaking the bottle
seal. Examples of these tamper-indicating features include,
separation of the base of the sleeve in response to rotation of the
sleeve, separation of a cap element from a one-piece sleeve,
separation of a collar element, and similar forms of material
separations and combinations thereof.
[0244] It will be appreciated that preventing an inadvertent loss
of bottle sealing may be generally improved by increasing the
rotational torque threshold above which the bottle seal is broken.
Maintaining seal integrity in this manner may be embodied as an
aspect of a separable section as described above for providing a
tamper indication. Another alternative for preventing inadvertent
seal loss is to configure the capsule to partially lock onto a
portion of the bottle such as the choke ring, the threads, or other
bottle structural features, such as added grooves, or protrusions.
For example, this can be achieved by incorporating locking fins
inside the capsule, which pass over the bottle threads when
initially threading on the capsule, and which then lock into place
and engage the choke ring preventing the capsule from being easily
removed. Upon attempting to unscrew the capsule, the fins resist
the upward movement of the capsule until the axial force resulting
from the applied torque exceeds a threshold at which point the fins
either break or are at least sufficiently plastically deformed,
thereby signaling that the bottle seal has been broken. Tampering
therefore is evident on bottles having a freely rotatable cap.
[0245] Although FIG. 44 is described as a two piece closure, it
should also be appreciated, that the sleeve and cap may be
permanently joined to produce a one piece closure similar to that
shown in FIG. 39, yet providing a seal on the top exterior of the
bottle and not the interior of the bottle neck.
[0246] FIG. 48 through FIG. 56 exemplify additional forms of
closure capsules according to the present invention. FIG. 48
depicts a closure capsule 570 comprising a sleeve 572 with
removable cap 574 engaged within the upper portion 576 of sleeve
572. To provide pleasing aesthetics, the design of this closure
capsule can be similar to the closure capsules utilized for
extracting a cork, albeit preferably utilizing a screw-on style cap
instead of a snap-on cap to ensure the integrity of the primary
seal. FIG. 49 depicts closure capsule 570 sealing a bottle 578. A
means for sealing the top of bottle 578, depicted as a
substantially planar bottle seal 580, is retained in contact with
the rim of the pouring spout of bottle 578 as bottle threads 582
engage interior threads 584 of sleeve 572. After removal of closure
capsule 570, the bottle may be resealed by removing cap 574 from
capsule 570 and threading it onto threads 582 of bottle 578 as
shown in FIG. 50. Alternatively, the means for sealing sleeve 572
to bottle 578 may be configured with a removable seal element in
place of seal 580, such as a planar snap-in seal, thereby allowing
rethreading of sleeve 572 onto bottle 578 which is then resealed by
reapplying cap 574.
[0247] FIG. 51 details the upper edge portion 576 of closure
capsule 570 which is preferably configured with a sharp edge 586
configured for being drip resistant, and a recess or slot 588
configured for receiving reseal cap 574. A compliant bottle seal,
comprising a flexible extending ring 589, is shown for sealing the
top surface, rim, of bottle 578 despite any slight irregularities
or imperfections that may exist in the bottle surface.
[0248] A reseal cap is shown in many of the embodiments of the
present invention, such as in FIG. 49; however, it will be
appreciated that a disc, or similar substantially flat seal
element, can be utilized in place of the cap without departing from
the teachings of the present invention. For example, a disc seal
may be formed which snaps in and out of the top of the capsule and
which upon resealing of the bottle, is held tightly against the top
of the bottle by reapplication of the sleeve. It will be recognized
that as an alternative the seal may engage an interior portion of
the pouring aperture of the sleeve, such as by integrating a
plug.
[0249] FIG. 52 through FIG. 55 exemplify an alternative embodiment
of closure capsule 590 on a bottle 592. Closure capsule 590 is
configured for separating into two parts, specifically into a screw
cap portion 594 and a substantially rigid cylindrical sleeve 596.
Screw cap portion 594 is adapted with an integral seal 598, or a
separate sealing element sandwiched beneath screw cap 594 and the
top rim of bottle 592. The combination bottle 592 with capsule
comprising cap 594 joined to sleeve 596 has the appearance of a
single-piece foil capsule. To remove screw cap 594, the user can
place a first hand surrounding the neck of the bottle and sleeve
596 with the alternate hand twisting off screw cap 594. FIG. 53
depicts bottle 592 after removal of screw cap 594, wherein sleeve
596, being preferably configured with integral threads 600 can be
threaded up the neck of the bottle to cover the exterior bottle
threads. The edge 602 of sleeve 596 can be adapted to provide drip
resistance for the pour spout, such as configuring the top with a
sharp edge to eliminate drips. It will be appreciated that wine, or
other retained beverages, often "dribble" down the neck of
conventional bottles when pouring, wherein the drops may fall on
tablecloths, clothing, or the floor requiring inconvenient cleanup
and possibly leaving a stain. FIG. 54 depicts the reseal cap 594
that has been separated from sleeve 596, such as when unscrewing
cap 594 from bottle 592. It will be appreciated that reseal cap 594
may be replaced on bottle 592 when sleeve 596 is removed from the
bottle or the sleeve is otherwise retained below the bottle
threads.
[0250] The interface between sleeve 596 and bottle 592 may be
additionally configured to resist sleeve rotation. By way of
example, ridges, ratcheting protrusions, threading (i.e. additional
bottle threading for engaging sleeve, these additional threads
having less thread pitch than the pitch of threads used for
engaging the cap), and/or other forms of increasing rotational drag
may be utilized to aid separation of screw cap 594 from sleeve
596.
[0251] FIG. 55 exemplifies a one-piece closure capsule 610 having a
body 612 with interior threading 614 and a bottle rim seal 616,
which is shown in detail in FIG. 56 with integral seal 618.
[0252] FIG. 57 and FIG. 58 depict another embodiment of single
piece closure 630 in which the neck of bottle 632 is surrounded by
a threaded sleeve 634 having internal threads 636 which engage
exterior bottle threads to retain a seal 638 on the rim of bottle
632. To prevent the capsule from moving during transit, which could
compromise seal integrity, and to provide a tamper indication a
plurality of protrusions 640 are shown engaging a recess, such as
the choke ring as shown or other bottle recesses, which may be
configured as a smooth groove or have protrusions to prevent
inadvertent rotation of capsule 634.
[0253] FIG. 59 and FIG. 60 depict an embodiment of a modified
single piece closure capsule similar to that of FIG. 57, which is
adapted as a two-piece closure capsule 650 utilizing a separate
reseal plug. A bottle 652 is shown with a sleeve portion 654 of the
closure capsule 650 surrounding the bottle neck. Threads 656 on the
interior of sleeve 654 engage threads 658 protruding from bottle
652. A choke ring R shown beneath threads 656 facilitate
manufacture. A seal plug 660, is configured to engage the top
surface and a portion of the inner surface of bottle 652 (although
it may be alternatively configured to engage either surface). A lip
662 is shown extending from the upper surface of sleeve 654 to
retain reseal plug 660 against the opening of bottle 652, with the
reseal plug being retained in recess 664 at the upper end of sleeve
654. Reseal plug 660 is shown with a seal flange 666 which may be
configured with an integral seal (as shown) or with a separate seal
joined to the plug, and a protruding plug member 668 which is
preferably integral to reseal plug 660, although it may be joined
to reseal plug 660.
[0254] FIG. 61 through FIG. 65 exemplify another embodiment of a
bottle 670 for receiving a closure capsule 682 which incorporates a
tamper indication feature, illustrated in the form of a break-away
skirt. In FIG. 61 a bottle neck 672 with threaded portion 674 is
shown with a transition region 676 into which a threaded sleeve of
the closure capsule fits to provide the desired aesthetics of the
finished bottle, such as the substantially smooth neck transitions
characteristic of bottle necks traditionally overwrapped with thin
metal or plastic, often referred to as foil-finished. A protruding
ring 678 is shown extending just above transition region 676 of
bottle neck 672. A recess R, referred to herein as a choke ring, is
shown near the top of the bottle neck below threaded portion
674.
[0255] FIG. 62 depicts a partial cutaway of a sleeve 682, which is
threaded down upon bottle 670. Sleeve 682 comprises an upper
portion 684 and a breakaway skirt 686. Sleeve 682 is shown applied
over bottle 672 with break-away skirt 686 engaged past ring 678.
FIG. 63 provides a detailed view of break-away skirt 686 attached
to upper portion 684 of sleeve 682. The lower portion of break-away
skirt 686 preferably has a tapered section T configured to provide
a substantially smooth transition from the narrowed portion N of
the bottle to the remaining portions of bottle 672 as shown.
Breakaway skirt 686 is partially joined at seam 690 to upper
portion 684 of sleeve 682 so that skirt 686 will cleanly separate
from upper portion 684 when subjected to a sufficient force, such
as preferably a similar level of force produced from rotational
torque applied to similar sleeves, such as Type 1 closures, when
extracting a bottle cork.
[0256] It will be appreciated that sleeve 682 may be manufactured
as a single piece (i.e. molded) having perforations, commonly known
as slitting, or other separation relief, on a circumference above
break-away skirt 686. More preferably, break-away skirt 686 can be
sonically welded 690 to upper portion 684 of sleeve 682, such as at
select locations about the circumference. It should be appreciated
that other means for providing force induced separation of elements
may be utilized without departing from the teachings of the present
invention.
[0257] A plurality of engagement tabs 692 can be clearly seen in
FIG. 64 within the interior of break-away skirt 686. These
break-away (or bend-away) tabs 692 preferably provide a compliant
inner element, as shown, to allow closure capsule 682 with
break-away skirt 686 to be applied in one piece to the neck of
bottle 672. FIG. 65 illustrates by way of example a finished bottle
neck fitted with the closure capsule of the present invention. It
should be recognized that necked bottles having a wide variety of
shapes and sizes can be adapted for use with a similar closure
capsule adapted to fit the bottle shape according to the present
invention.
[0258] FIG. 66 through FIG. 70 depict additional tamper indication
mechanisms for bottle closures according to the present invention.
It will be appreciated that a tamper indicator can be provided by
restraining movement of a first portion of the closure capsule,
whereupon in response to movement of a second portion in an effort
to open the container, said second portion separates from said
first portion. This form of tamper indicator also requires
deliberate effort to open the bottle thereby preventing loss of
seal in response to moderate (i.e. inadvertent) applications of
torque, while it generally leaves indications when the bottle is
opened since the separation between portions is visible.
[0259] FIG. 66 and FIG. 67 depict an embodiment of bottles
utilizing unidirectional protrusions to facilitate a tamper
indicator. FIG. 66 illustrates a bottle 700 having a corkage area
702 with external threaded section 704, and protrusions 706 near
the base of corkage area 702. FIG. 67 depicts a closure capsule 708
engaged over the neck of bottle 700, having upper portion 710. It
will be appreciated that this embodiment may be practiced with a
variety of corked, or corkless closures according to the present
invention. Protrusions 706 extend into or through the base of
closure capsule 708 which has been pressed down over protrusions
706 as a result of threading it onto the bottle. Protrusions 706
are preferably formed with a gentle transition in a first
rotational direction about the bottle, and a sharp transition in
the opposing direction of rotation. These "unidirectional"
protrusions allow closure capsule 708 to be rotated over the
protrusions in a first direction (i.e. installation), yet lock onto
the sharp transitions on the unidirectional protrusions 706 when
rotated in the opposing direction (i.e. bottle opening). The base
portion of closure capsule 708 is shown in a preferred
configuration being segmented, such as with perforations 712, or
other means of reducing the force required to separate the upper
portion of closure capsule 708 from the lower portion retained by
the protrusions.
[0260] It will be appreciated that during the bottling process,
closure capsule 708 may be readily engaged over the unidirectional
protrusions following a first direction of rotation, preferably
clockwise rotation (as seen from the top of the bottle). To open
the sealed bottle, the user applies a torque on closure capsule 708
in a second direction, preferably a counter-clockwise direction. As
closure capsule 708 is held firmly in that direction over
protrusions 706, upon applying a sufficient torque, the base of
capsule 708 separates at perforations 712 allowing the upper
portion of capsule 708 to be removed along with the associated
bottle seal.
[0261] FIG. 68 through FIG. 70 depict another embodiment for
retaining the capsule or lower portion of the capsule. FIG. 68
depicts a bottle 720 shown with a corkage area 722, external
threading 724 and a ring depression R, such as below the corkage
area. A closure capsule 728 is depicted in FIG. 69 engaged over the
narrowed portion N of the neck of bottle 720 until a snap ring 730
has engaged depression 726. FIG. 71 depicts in detail the
engagement of snap ring 730 with ring depression 726. Preferably
the lower portion of closure capsule 728 is segmented to facilitate
separation in response to sufficient applied torque for opening the
bottle. The snap ring 730 engaging ring depression 726 serves as a
latch, that prevents the seal from being broken in response to low
levels of applied torque. Additionally, the separation of the lower
portion of the sleeve on capsule closure under sufficient torque to
break the seal, provides a visual indication that the bottle has
been opened.
[0262] FIG. 71 and 72 exemplify additional embodiments of closure
capsules which utilize a two-part synthetic stopper comprising a
shank portion formed from a substantially rigid frame over which a
layer of compliant material is retained to form the stopper. This
structure provides the desired sealing properties and low cost of
compliant polymer plugs with the structural rigidity consistent
with cork stoppers. In addition, the use of synthetic stopper
materials eliminate the risk of TCA (cork taint) problems
associated with the use of conventional cork materials.
[0263] FIG. 71 depicts a two-part closure capsule 750 attached to a
bottle. A threaded sleeve 752 with interior threads 754 is shown
threaded down upon a bottle 756 having exterior threads 758. Bottle
756 is preferably adapted with a taper from the traditional
thickness 760 and shape to a narrowed region N, wherein after
receiving threaded sleeve 752 the interface 764 between the sleeve
and bottle provide a generally smooth transition consistent with
traditional foil-wrapped bottles, although other desired shape
transitions can also be supported.
[0264] An annular engagement structure 766 is shown proximal to the
rim of bottle 756 for engaging the stopper for supplying the
necessary extraction force through a head member 768 coupled to a
protruding portion of stopper 770. It is preferred that the
coupling between stopper 770 and head member 768 (or alternatively
directly to annular engagement structure 766 of sleeve 752) be a
substantially easily rotatably engagement so that stopper 770 is
not required to rotate in response to the rotation of sleeve 752,
which would substantially increase the torque required for removing
the stopper while subjecting the stopper arrangement to undue
torque forces.
[0265] Stopper 770 comprises a two-part synthetic stopper having a
length preferably exceeding approximately one inch (1"). An
engagement member 772 (latch) on stopper 770 is configured for
being engaged by head member 768, preferably extending past the
bottle rim (mouth), although alternatively it can be partially, or
even fully, recessed within a portion of the neck of the bottle.
Engagement member 772 is joined to a stopper frame 774 which
comprises a substantially rigid structure capable of withstanding
the necessary extraction forces. Stopper frame 774 is preferably
configured having a large diameter, such as a diameter that is
preferably about one half to three quarters of the inside diameter
of the bottle neck. The stopper frame may be implemented with
either an open or closed frame construction. An elastic layer 776
is joined to the exterior of frame 774 to provide a seal with the
interior of bottle 756. The large frame beneficially reduces the
amount of material required in the elastic layer and controls the
pressure applied by the elastic layer against the interior of the
bottle neck. This can provide a good seal while reducing the radial
forces inside the stopper relative to prior art synthetic closures
(such as SupremeCorq, Nomacorc, Neocork), thereby substantially
reducing the axial pull force required to remove the stopper. This
embodiment can be considered a variation of the two-part anchor
embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 through FIG. 10, in which the rigid
frame is considered the shank of the two-part anchor and the
compliant material joined to the rigid frame is considered the
stopper. It should be appreciated that stopper 770 may be
implemented in various lengths and sealing configurations, such as
incorporating a planar seal which provides a seal against the rim
of the pouring spout of bottle 756.
[0266] By way of example frame 774 may be implemented as a closed
exterior structure, such as a hollow cylinder having a sufficiently
irregular surface to promote bond adhesion with elastic layer 776.
Alternatively, frame 774 may be configured as an open exterior
structure whose exterior is sealed by elastic layer 776 joined over
it. Preferably the frame is a major percentage, over 50%, of the
inner diameter of the bottle neck into which the combination of
frame and compliant layer forming the stopper are to be inserted.
More preferably, the frame is adapted to fill at least 66% of the
bottle inner diameter. Frame 774 and elastic layer 776 preferably
comprise polymer materials with the material used for the frame
having less compliance than the material utilized for the elastic
sealing layer. The material of elastic layer 776 is selected to
conform to the non-uniform inner diameter of the bottle neck and to
the very small changes in texture that are encountered in glass
bottles in order to provide a superior seal. Furthermore, elastic
layer 776 should be capable of being easily deformed to simplify
extraction, such as in response to minimum axial stopper extraction
forces of about twenty five pounds. Elastic layer 776 provides
improved sealing capability against the glass surface at lower
radial forces than are required with current synthetic stoppers. A
small amount of food grade lubricant may be optionally utilized
over elastic layer 776 during bottling to reduce friction during
insertion. By way of example, stopper 770 may be manufactured in an
insert-molding or co-molding process.
[0267] Engagement member 772 on the upper portion of stopper 770
provides a means for coupling extraction forces from sleeve 752 to
stopper 770. Preferably, the diameter of engagement member 772 is
configured as a substantial percentage (i.e. over 50%) of the
diameter of the stopper, wherein cork extraction forces are spread
over a larger coupled surface area to more easily withstand the
cork extraction force. By way of example the means for coupling is
depicted as at least one protrusion engaging at least one mating
recess, although other forms of engagement may be utilized.
Preferably the means for coupling can be engaged by the application
of forces which are substantially less than required for
disengagement. For example once stopper 770 is engaged with head
768 it will not become disengaged in response to the application of
necessary stopper extraction forces, and preferably could not be
readily disengaged at all.
[0268] Unidirectional compliant fingers 778 with engagement ribs
780 are shown for engaging the ribbed exterior of engagement member
772. It will be appreciated that in the embodiment depicted, head
768 may be joined over stopper 770, after stopper 770 and sleeve
752 have been installed on the bottle. A recess 782 is shown in the
center of engagement member 772 which can both reduce the material
requirements and be formed in a tooling-compatible shape for being
engaged by automated equipment for installing stopper 770.
[0269] An annular recess 784 is shown disposed on an upper portion
of sleeve 752 for retaining a cap member 786, with optional recess
788. It should be appreciated that cap 786 is preferably
implemented on non-pressurized bottles as a reseal cap that may be
snapped onto the bottle rim (such as over a small lip), or threaded
over the bottle threads to seal the bottle. Cap 786 may be retained
on sleeve 752 according to any convenient form of attachment, such
as friction fit or threaded within recess 784, attached by a
breakable bond, and so forth. The exterior of cap 786 is shown with
a small top recess 788 which can mimic the appearance of a
foil-wrapped bottle top and may include a logo, indicia, or other
forms of trade dress. It should be appreciated that these aspects
of the design of cap 786 may be implemented on any of the bottle
closure embodiments described herein.
[0270] FIG. 72 depicts another two-part closure capsule 790 having
an integral bottle rim sealing means, such as an annular lip, shown
in the figure sealing a bottle. A threaded sleeve 792 is depicted
with interior threads 794 shown threaded down upon a bottle 796
having exterior threads 798. Bottle 796 is again shown adapted from
a traditional thickness 800 to narrowed region 802 with a
substantially smooth interface 804 between the sleeve and bottle.
Annular engagement structure 806 (annular lip) is configured for
engaging the stopper through a head member 808 coupled to a stopper
810.
[0271] The stopper 810 is shown following two-part synthetic
construction similar to that shown for the stopper in FIG. 71. An
engagement member 812 (latch) is configured for engaging head
member 808 and joined to a substantially rigid stopper frame 814
covered by an elastic layer 816, including a flaired-out portion at
the top embodied as a planar seal portion 818 configured as a
compression gasket for being compressed between annular engagement
structure 806 and the bottle rim. It will be noted that use of the
planar seal increases overall seal integrity for a given length of
stopper 810. The plug portion of stopper 810 within this embodiment
is preferably configured to extend into the neck of the bottle to a
depth of approximately five eighths of an inch (5/8"). On the
embodiment shown, threading sleeve 792 onto the bottle neck at
twenty pound-inches (20 lb-inches) of torque produces a compressive
axial force on planar seal 818 of eighty or more pounds (.gtoreq.80
lbs.) of axial force upon the gasket at the rim of the pouring
spout. As a consequence of this added seal, closure embodiment 790
is shown implemented with a shorter stopper than illustrated in
FIG. 71.
[0272] Unidirectional compliant fingers 820 with engagement ribs
822 are again shown for engaging the periphery of engagement member
812. A recess 824 within engagement member 812 can be configured
for engagement by automated equipment. A cap 826, such as for
resealing, having an optional recessed (or alternatively raised)
center portion 828 is shown for retention within annular recess
830.
[0273] FIG. 73 depicts the upper portion of a wine bottle 850
configured for receipt of a closure capsule in accord with the
present invention. A number of design aspects should be considered
in creating a wine bottle that is compatible with closure capsules
described herein utilizing rotational sleeves for breaking the
bottle seal and opening the bottle. The bottle 850 tapers from a
base 852 to the bottle neck 854, which traditionally extends
smoothly to the rim of bottle 850.
[0274] Aspects of the present invention recognize the importance of
appearance, specifically external shape, and more specifically the
maintenance of a traditional appearance, such as that of a foil
wrapped finish which is a configuration known in the wine industry.
Closure capsules according to the invention provide an easy-open
bottle closure that can exhibit a traditional appearance when
received upon bottles adapted for them. A closure capsule is
retained, such as on bottle 850, on an external threaded portion of
the bottle. One embodiment of this threading is shown in FIG. 73
with threading 858 on a portion of bottle 850 near bottle rim 856.
It should be appreciated that exterior bottle threading may be
disposed along any portion(s) of the bottle over which the threaded
closure capsule is to be retained, but the shortest capsule lengths
(that is, lengths comparable to the stopper length) will be
possible only if the threads extend nearly to the top of the
bottle. Also, threading the bottle exterior near its top allows
employing the shortest reseal caps which thread onto the bottle
top.
[0275] To maintain traditional wine bottle aesthetics when
utilizing the closures capsules of the invention, it will be
appreciated that the diameter of the neck of the bottle must be
smaller in the region covered by the sleeve portion of the closure
capsule so that the outside diameter of the closure capsule matches
that of the bottle neck just below the capsule. The neck 854 of
bottle 850 is shown transitioning near the bottom of the corkage
area of the bottle to this smaller, narrowed, diameter 860 through
a closure interface region 862 configured with a contour that mates
with the interior of the base of the closure capsule so that a
smooth transition can be provided on the bottle exterior,
regardless of typical tolerances on glass dimensions. This neck
region covered by the closure capsule is referred to as the corkage
area since it corresponds to the axial segment of the neck in which
the cork, or a cork-like stopper, resides in bottles containing
them. The smaller external neck diameter in the corkage area of the
bottle extends up from interface 862 to the top of the bottle
proximal rim 856, with generally only the threads 858 protruding
beyond the capsule neck diameter to engage the interior of the
capsule when threaded over the bottle neck.
[0276] The importance of bottle shape in providing pleasing package
aesthetics has been described. Manufacturing considerations should
likewise be considered, such as considering how manufacturers are
to produce bottles compatible with the closure capsules taught
herein. According to conventional bottle manufacturing practice,
the upper portion of the bottleneck preferably includes a
protruding ring by which tooling (i.e. bottle tongs) are able to
grasp the bottle during the glass forming (i.e. blowing) production
process. In order to remove the bottle from the mold following the
industry standard bottle manufacturing process, tongs grasp the
bottle under or upon the protruding ring positioned near the top of
the bottle neck. Bottle grasping is traditionally facilitated by
providing a protruding ring of glass near the top of the bottle
neck, typically located approximately 1/4" to 1/2" below the top of
the bottle and which protrudes about forty thousandths of an inch
(0.040 inches) to prevent the bottle from slipping out of the grasp
of the tongs.
[0277] It should be appreciated, however, that the presence of this
protruding ring can complicate the threadable engagement of a
closure capsule as described, since the protruding ring generally
constitutes an obstacle to closure installation. In order to thread
a generally cylindrical closure capsule over the bottle neck, the
interior diameter of the closure capsule must exceed the external
diameter of the protruding ring. This is generally true unless of
course the closure capsule is designed with a compliant base
portion, or a flared base portion that can be easily slid over the
protruding ring. Although closure capsule may be practiced with
bottles having a protruding ring, it is generally preferable
according to the present invention to utilize a recessed means by
which the bottles may be grasped.
[0278] The recessed bottle grasping means of the present invention
comprises one or more recesses about the exterior of the bottle
neck configured for being engaged by tooling for holding the
bottle. Preferably, the recess is implemented as at least one
ringed depression 864, referred to herein as a "choke ring" 864,
about the periphery of the bottle neck. Preferably, the choke ring
is disposed beneath the exterior bottle neck threads 858 for
engaging the closure capsule. This choke ring depression should be
at least approximately ten thousandths of an inch deep (0.010
inch), and preferably approximately forty thousandths of an inch in
depth (0.040 inch).
[0279] To achieve a desired breaking strength for the resultant
bottle, it is preferred that the minimum thickness of the
bottleneck be considered and possibly increased to accommodate the
narrowing for receiving the closure capsule. Furthermore, on
bottles designed for retaining forms of sparkling wines, beers, or
other pressurized fluids, the material thickness of the bottle must
be sufficient to withstand the pressure exerted by the contents of
the bottle and handling. Although not necessary from a utilitarian
standpoint, the region below the choke ring may contain additional
threading. The narrowed portion 860 in the corkage area within the
present invention can also support the display of, logos, design
elements, package labeling, and so forth. By way of example, this
circumferential space about the corkage area can be utilized for
retaining and displaying information such as contest information,
rebates, bottling and lot information, warnings, and so forth in
support of business methods. For instance this area may be directly
printed upon, or a paper or plastic band containing text or
graphics may be installed in the corkage area prior to installation
of the closure sleeve.
[0280] It is important that the dimensions of the elements forming
the bottle neck be properly considered so as to facilitate use and
manufacture of the present bottle with threadable closure
apparatus.
[0281] FIG. 73 depict stations A through D along the neck of a
bottle for retaining still wines, preferred dimensions and
tolerances for each of these stations along the bottle neck are
listed in Table 3. The present embodiment of the bottle is
configured with a neck in the corkage area that has a smaller
diameter than the lower part of the neck just above the shoulder of
the bottle, preferably by about one tenth of an inch, to allow for
the material thickness of the sleeve on the closure capsule. More
preferably, the neck in the corkage area has a diameter about 0.14
inches less than the lower portion of the neck into which it
transitions. It will be appreciated that the described closure
capsules constitute a structural element for converting a torque
force to an axial force for extracting a cork or otherwise removing
a bottle seal during opening a bottle. As would be expected an
element performing a structural function generally requires a
thicker material cross-section than a purely decorative overwrap,
such as found in the traditional metal foil overwrappings.
[0282] It is also preferable that the major diameter of the threads
in the corkage area of the bottle neck, or any portion along the
corkage area to be covered by the closure capsule, does not exceed
the minor diameter of the threads inside the closure capsule, as
this simplifies fitting the capsule down onto the bottleneck. Neck
flares in some traditional bottle styles, such as associated with
Burgundy and Rhone style bottles, are preferably simulated by
flaring the outside, but not the inside, of the closure
capsule.
[0283] It will be appreciated that other bottle patterns for still
wines and forms of sparkling wine or beer and which have different
dimensions can be implemented based on teachings herein without
departing from the present invention.
[0284] FIG. 74, 75 and 76 depict typical designs for Bordeaux,
Rubato, and Burgundy style bottles, respectively, by way of example
and not of limitation which are shown configured for receipt of a
closure capsule according to the present invention. It will be
appreciated that the aspects of the present invention as described
herein may be applied to various bottle shapes including those
described above as well as Rhone, champagne, and other traditional
bottle shapes, the neck portions of which are adapted to receive
the threaded closure capsule. The traditional appearance is
achieved with these modified bottles after receiving the closure
capsule which is threaded down on the bottle neck. In order to
minimize departure from the traditional look of these wine bottle
patterns the upper portion of the neck covered by the closure
capsule is preferably cylindrical with a closure capsule being
cylindrical on its interior and exterior which results in a minimal
change in bottleneck outside diameter at the point where the bottom
of the sleeve of the closure capsule is retained. Moreover, to
further minimize the visibility of this change in neck diameter,
the transition from smaller to larger diameter can be made
smoothly, producing cleaner lines than associated with a sharp
transition. The transition region is preferably approximately
three-eighths (3/8) inch with rounding at both upper and lower
slope changes.
[0285] The present invention is compatible with the utilization and
presentation of sparkling and still wines, and other beverages. For
example, the present invention is compatible with typical devices
that retard the oxidation process after the bottle has been
initially opened by drawing a vacuum or filling the air-space in
the bottle with an inert gas. The evacuation method can replace the
reseal cap with its own rubber stopper, while the oxygen
displacement methods can utilize the reseal cap in the normal way.
Both of these methods also can be integrated with the base
solutions.
[0286] Accordingly, it will be seen that this invention provides
various embodiments of bottle closures which are particularly well
suited to sealing still and sparkling beverages, such as wines,
within their containers. The described closures may be readily
opened in response to user rotation of a sleeve which is threadably
engaged with the neck of a bottle, or threading joined to the neck
of a bottle. The sleeve engages natural or synthetic corks or plugs
directly or by way of anchors engaged within the plug or cork.
Various closure embodiments are described which provide for sealing
still beverages, while features are described for use on fluids
whose contents are under pressure (i.e. sparkling wines,
champagnes, beers, and so forth), such as to prevent uncontrolled
explosive egress of the plug or cork. Furthermore, those skilled in
the art will appreciate that the structural and functional features
described for the various reseal caps, anchors, and closure
capsules can be substituted among the various embodiments of the
invention described, while elements of prior art cork pulling
sleeve may also be incorporated to create additional embodiments
without departing from the present invention. It should also be
appreciated that logos, artistic designs, labeling information and
the like, may be incorporated on aspects of the present invention,
such as the sleeve, cap, capsule, bottle threads, anchor, and so
forth.
[0287] Although the description above contains many details, these
should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but
as merely providing illustrations of some of the presently
preferred embodiments of this invention. Therefore, it will be
appreciated that the scope of the present invention fully
encompasses other embodiments which may become obvious to those
skilled in the art, and that the scope of the present invention is
accordingly to be limited by nothing other than the appended
claims, in which reference to an element in the singular is not
intended to mean "one and only one" unless explicitly so stated,
but rather "one or more." All structural, chemical, and functional
equivalents to the elements of the above-described preferred
embodiment that are known to those of ordinary skill in the art are
expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be
encompassed by the present claims. Moreover, it is not necessary
for a device or method to address each and every problem sought to
be solved by the present invention, for it to be encompassed by the
present claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step
in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public
regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is
explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element herein is to be
construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph,
unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase "means
for."
1TABLE 1 Closure Types Closure Type Fluid pressure Sealing element
Type 1 atmospheric Cork Type 2 up to 6 atmospheres Cork Type 3
atmospheric Synthetic* Type 4 up to 6 atmospheres Synthetic*
*Plastic, usually a Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) or a
urethane.
[0288]
2TABLE 2 Closure Designs and Uses Uses a Pulls cork with Design FIG
Type traditional cork anchor 51 1 1 yes yes 46 4 1 yes yes 52 9 1
yes yes 20 11 2 yes yes 28 15 2 yes no 54 16 2 yes no 45 27 3 no no
55 30 3 no no 21 44 3 no no 40 39 3 no no 44 32 4 no no
[0289]
3TABLE 3 Example Bottle Neck Dimensions and Tolerances for use with
Closure Capsules Station Nominal Diameter Tolerance A 1.294* inches
+/- 0.031 inches B D - 0.088 inches +/- 0.020 inches C D - 0.160
inches +/- 0.020 inches D A - 0.120 inches +0.013/-0.012 inches *OR
any desirable bottleneck diameter.
* * * * *