U.S. patent application number 10/854925 was filed with the patent office on 2005-05-05 for method of joining separable components and container closure system formed by the same.
Invention is credited to Adams, Brian M., Lohrman, Richard D..
Application Number | 20050092750 10/854925 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33490658 |
Filed Date | 2005-05-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050092750 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lohrman, Richard D. ; et
al. |
May 5, 2005 |
Method of joining separable components and container closure system
formed by the same
Abstract
A tamper-evidencing closure for a container including a first
component having a first interlocking structure and a second,
plastics injection molded component having a second interlocking
structure molded in situ against the first interlocking structure.
The second interlocking structure is complementary in shape to the
first interlocking structure and is in mechanical interlocking
engagement with the first interlocking structure. The mechanical
interlocking engagement is releasable without fracture of at least
one of the first and second interlocking structures. A method of
using the tamper-evidencing closure is also disclosed.
Inventors: |
Lohrman, Richard D.; (North
Aurora, IL) ; Adams, Brian M.; (Newark, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DORSEY & WHITNEY LLP
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DEPARTMENT
4 EMBARCADERO CENTER
SUITE 3400
SAN FRANCISCO
CA
94111
US
|
Family ID: |
33490658 |
Appl. No.: |
10/854925 |
Filed: |
May 26, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60473847 |
May 27, 2003 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/258.2 ;
215/254; 220/270 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B29C 2045/1601 20130101;
B29C 45/1657 20130101; B29C 45/16 20130101; B65D 47/36 20130101;
B29L 2031/56 20130101; B65D 47/103 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/258.2 ;
220/270; 215/254 |
International
Class: |
B65D 051/20 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method of joining separable components comprising: providing a
first component having first interlocking structure; and molding a
second component in a plastics injection molding process within a
mold utilizing a surface of said first interlocking structure of
said first component as a portion of the mold, said second
component being formed with second interlocking structure
complementary to said first interlocking structure which
mechanically interlocks said first component and said second
component, said mechanical interlock being releasable without
fracture of at least one of said first and second interlocking
structures.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein said molding step further forms
said mechanical interlock to be releasable without fracture of said
first and second interlocking structures.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein said molding step further forms
said first and second interlocking structures such that the
interlocking structures cannot be reassembled after said mechanical
interlock has been released.
4. The method of claim 3, wherein said providing step is
accomplished by providing said first interlocking structure with a
recess having first trapezoidal cross-section and said forming step
is accomplished by forming said second interlocking structure with
a protrusion having a second trapezoidal cross-section
complementary to said first trapezoidal cross-section.
5. A closure for a container comprising: a first component
including a first interlocking structure; and a second, plastics
injection molded component having a second interlocking structure
molded in situ against said first interlocking structure and
complementary in shape to said first interlocking structure, said
second interlocking structure being in mechanical interlocking
engagement with said first interlocking structure; said mechanical
interlocking engagement being releasable without fracture of at
least one of said first and second interlocking structures.
6. The closure of claim 5, wherein said mechanical interlocking
engagement is releasable without fracture of said first and second
interlocking structures.
7. The closure of claim 6, wherein said first and second
interlocking structures cannot be reassembled after said mechanical
interlocking engagement has been released.
8. A tamper-evidencing closure for a container having a container
opening, said closure comprising: a closure base having a
dispensing aperture adapted for mounting on the container adjacent
the container opening; a sealing member for closing said dispensing
aperture and the container opening; and a connection member
releasably interconnecting said closure base and said sealing
member; wherein one of said closure base and said sealing member is
formed of a first material and said connection member is formed of
a second material, said second material being more pliable than
said first material.
9. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 8, wherein said closure
base further comprises an annular top, a well defined by an inner
skirt depending downwardly from an inner perimeter of said annular
top, and an annular bottom extending radially inward from said
inner skirt, said bottom having a closure aperture for accessing
the container opening, said first interlocking structure including
a recess located on said annular bottom.
10. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 9, wherein said recess
is an outwardly-extending trapezoidally-shaped recess.
11. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 10, wherein said closure
base further comprises a retainer for securing said closure base to
the container.
12. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 11, wherein said closure
base further comprises an outer skirt depending downwardly from an
outer periphery of said annular top, said retainer including a
retaining band extending inwardly and upwardly from a lower portion
of said outer skirt.
13. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 8, wherein said sealing
member comprises a pull-ring.
14. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 8, wherein one of said
sealing member and said connection member comprises a peripheral
lip and the other one of said sealing member and said connection
member includes a continuous ring having an engagement groove
cooperating with said peripheral lip to mechanically interlock said
connection member and said sealing member.
15. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 8, wherein one of said
closure base and said connection member includes a recess and the
other of said closure base and said connection member includes a
protrusion complementary in shape to said recess.
16. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 15, wherein said
protrusion and said recess have trapezoidally-shaped
cross-sectional profiles.
17. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 8, wherein said closure
base is polypropylene, high-density polyethylene, and/or
low-density polyethylene.
18. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 8, wherein said sealing
member is polypropylene, high-density polyethylene, and/or
low-density polyethylene.
19. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 8, wherein said
connection member is low-density polyethylene and/or thermoplastic
elastomer.
20. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 8, wherein said closure
is dimensioned and configured for use with a container having a
container opening, a neck finish, and a locking surface on said
neck finish, said closure further comprising: a plurality of
retaining flaps extending radially inwardly and upwardly from a
lower portion of an outer skirt of said closure base, each said
retaining flap including an oblique wing having a arcuate inner
edge adapted to engage the locking surface of the container;
wherein each wing includes a concave lower surface dimensioned and
configured to closely approximate the outer diameter of the neck
finish below the locking surface allowing substantially the entire
the inner edge to contact the locking surface.
21. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 20, wherein the neck
finish includes anti-rotation structure, said closure further
comprising a vertically extending gusset extending along at least
one of said flaps and being dimensioned and configured to abut
against the anti-rotation structure of the neck finish.
22. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 20, wherein said closure
further includes a plurality of biasing ribs extending radially
inward from an inner surface of said outer skirt toward a
respective one of said flaps to bias said inner edges into contact
with the locking surface of the container.
23. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 8, wherein said closure
further comprises a plurality of lines of weakness extending
upwardly along a lower portion of an outer skirt of said closure
base, said lines of weakness being dimensioned and configured to
split upon at least partial removal of said closure from the
container.
24. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 23, wherein said lines
of weakness extend substantially vertically along said lower
portion of said outer skirt.
25. A tamper-evidencing closure for a container having a container
opening, a neck finish, and a locking surface on said neck finish,
said closure comprising: a closure base having a top and an annular
outer skirt depending from a periphery of said top; a plurality of
retaining flaps extending radially inwardly and upwardly from a
lower portion of said outer skirt, each said retaining flap
including an oblique wing having a arcuate inner edge adapted to
engage the locking surface of the container; wherein each wing
includes a concave lower surface dimensioned and configured to
closely approximate the outer diameter of the neck finish below the
locking surface allowing a majority of the inner edge to contact
the locking surface.
26. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 25, wherein the neck
finish includes anti-rotation structure, said closure further
comprising a vertically extending gusset extending along at least
one of said flaps and being dimensioned and configured to abut
against the anti-rotation structure of the neck finish.
27. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 25, wherein said closure
further comprises a plurality of biasing ribs extending radially
inward from an inner surface of said outer skirt toward a
respective one of said flaps to bias said inner edges into contact
with the locking surface of the container when said closure is
mounted on the container.
28. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 25, wherein said closure
further comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced lines of
weakness extending substantially vertically along said lower
portion of said outer skirt, said lines of weakness being
dimensioned and configured to split upon partial removal of said
closure from the container.
29. A tamper-evidencing closure for a container having a container
opening, a neck finish, and a locking surface on said neck finish,
said closure comprising: a closure base having a top and an annular
outer skirt depending from a periphery of said top; a retainer
extending radially inwardly and upwardly from a lower portion of
said outer skirt; and a plurality of circumferentially spaced lines
of weakness extending biasing ribs extending upwardly along said
lower portion of said outer skirt, said lines of weakness being
dimensioned and configured to split upon partial removal of said
closure from the container.
30. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 29, wherein said
plurality of lines of weakness extend substantially vertically
along said lower portion of said outer skirt.
31. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 29, wherein said
plurality of lines of weakness extend substantially parallel to one
another.
32. The tamper-evidencing closure of claim 29, wherein said
plurality of lines of weakness extend from a bottom edge of said
lower portion of said outer skirt.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/473,847 filed May 27, 2003, entitled METHOD OF
JOINING SEPARABLE COMPONENTS AND CONTAINER CLOSURE SYSTEM FORMED BY
THE SAME, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by
this reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates, in general, to a method of joining
separable components and to container closure systems formed by the
same, and more particularly to tamper-evidencing closure systems
and methods for their use.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Tamper-evidencing closure systems are known and often
include a closure having a removable tamper-evidencing portion that
is monolithically formed with the remainder of the closure. Opening
of such known closures generally involves fracturing the closure
and tearing the tamper-evidencing portion from the remainder of the
closure upon initial opening of the container.
[0006] One known type of closure system utilizes a cap having a
skirt and a tamper-evident band dependent from and monolithically
joined to a base of the skirt. The band is engaged with
complimentary structure on a corresponding container and is severed
from the cap skirt when the closure is initially removed. The
severing is allowed by making the interconnection between the
tamper-evident band and the cap skirt frangible and easily broken.
Typically, discrete breakable "bridges" or a continuous thin "score
line" is utilized to form the frangible connection.
[0007] One exemplar of the prior art is U.S. Pat. No. 5,480,045 to
Molinaro et al. which discloses a cap including a frangible tear
skirt 25 interconnected with a depending wall 22 by frangible
connection members 27. Another exemplar of the prior art is U.S.
Pat. No. 5,284,265 to Crisci which discloses a cap having a
frangible tear skirt 14 interconnected with cap top 13 along a
score line, that is, tear line 16.
[0008] Another known closure system involves monolithically molded
pull-out membranes, as commonly employed on gable-top juice
containers and some vegetable oil containers. This system
incorporates a removable membrane initially closing a dispensing
orifice of the container. The membrane is monolithically formed
with additional structure appropriate for attachment to the
container such as a weld flange or a snap attachment skirt. The
membrane is integrally connected to the attachment structure
through a frangible line of weakness. Upon initial opening by a
consumer, a finger tab joined to the membrane is gripped and pulled
by the consumer, thereby removing the membrane by fracturing the
closure and tearing the membrane away from the additional structure
along the frangible line of weakness.
[0009] An exemplar of the prior art is U.S. Pat. No. 5,810,184 to
Adams et al. which discloses a fitment having a removable membrane
32 interconnected with a spout along a line of weakness or tear
line 36.
[0010] While prior closure systems function quite successfully,
current systems using frangible separation of integrally molded
components have several disadvantages. In the case of dependent
breakaway tamper-evidencing bands, the demands of application and
retention of the tamper-evidencing band often conflict with the
requirements of the primary closure portion. For example, when
discrete bridges are employed, the mechanical characteristics
required for bridge integrity during application often conflict
with the mechanical characteristics appropriate for easy removal by
a consumer upon opening the closure system. In the case of
continuous frangible score lines or tear lines, material selection
is normally restricted to forms of low density polyethylene, since
this is the only commodity material exhibiting facile tear
performance.
[0011] Similarly, pull-out membrane closure systems generally
include a membrane, a frangible score line, and an attachment
structure which are monolithically molded in a single integral shot
during an injection molding operation. Such configuration
significantly restricts possible material choices for forming the
system. The frangible score line must easily and readily tear
without excessive force. As noted above, the most applicable
material in this regard is low density polyethylene, however,
specifying that the frangible line be made of low density
polyethylene further specifies that the membrane itself, and more
importantly the attachment structure, be formed of the same low
density polyethylene material. Disadvantageously, this can
negatively impact potential applications, since the mechanical
properties of low density polyethylene may not be appropriate to
accomplish the performance required for package integrity.
[0012] A further problem intrinsic with pull out membrane
technology is that substantial material flow is required across a
thin frangible score line which connects the pull out membrane to
the container attachment structure. This configuration may lead to
unusual and unpredictable performance including, but not limited
to, microscopic pin holes, lamination and difficult tearing
resulting from physical properties of the material which may change
as the material traverses the thin frangible scoreline.
[0013] What is needed is a new and improved tamper-evidencing
closure system which overcomes the above and other disadvantages of
known closure systems.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] In summary, one aspect of the present invention is directed
to a method of joining separable components including: providing a
first component having first interlocking structure; and molding a
second component in a plastics injection molding process within a
mold utilizing a surface of the first interlocking structure of the
first component as a portion of the mold, the second component
being formed with second interlocking structure complementary to
the first interlocking structure which mechanically interlocks the
first component and the second component, the mechanical interlock
being releasable without fracture of at least one of the first and
second interlocking structures.
[0015] In one embodiment, the molding step further forms the
mechanical interlock to be releasable without fracture of the first
and second interlocking structures. The molding step may form the
first and second interlocking structures such that the interlocking
structures cannot be reassembled after the mechanical interlock has
been released. In one embodiment, the providing step is
accomplished by providing the first interlocking structure with a
recess having first trapezoidal cross-section and the forming step
is accomplished by forming the second interlocking structure with a
protrusion having a second trapezoidal cross-section complementary
to the first trapezoidal cross-section.
[0016] Another aspect of the present invention is directed to a
closure for a container including a first component having a first
interlocking structure and a second, plastics injection molded
component having a second interlocking structure molded in situ
against the first interlocking structure. The second interlocking
structure is complementary in shape to the first interlocking
structure and is in mechanical interlocking engagement with the
first interlocking structure. The mechanical interlocking
engagement is releasable without fracture of at least one of the
first and second interlocking structures.
[0017] In one embodiment, the mechanical interlocking engagement is
releasable without fracture of the first and second interlocking
structures. Preferably, the first and second interlocking
structures cannot be reassembled after the mechanical interlocking
engagement has been released.
[0018] Yet another aspect of the present invention is directed to a
tamper-evidencing closure for a container having a container
opening in which the closure includes a closure base having a
dispensing aperture adapted for mounting on the container adjacent
the container opening, a sealing member for closing the dispensing
aperture and the container opening, and a connection member
releasably interconnecting the closure base and the sealing member.
One of the closure base and the sealing member is formed of a first
material and the connection member is formed of a second material,
the second material being more pliable than the first material.
[0019] In one embodiment, the closure base further includes an
annular top, a well defined by an inner skirt depending downwardly
from an inner perimeter of the annular top, and an annular bottom
extending radially inward from the inner skirt, the bottom having a
closure aperture for accessing the container opening, and the first
interlocking structure including a recess located on the annular
bottom. The recess may be an outwardly-extending
trapezoidally-shaped recess. The closure base may include a
retainer for securing the closure base to the container. The
closure base may include an outer skirt depending downwardly from
an outer periphery of the annular top, the retainer including a
retaining band extending inwardly and upwardly from a lower portion
of the outer skirt.
[0020] In one embodiment, the sealing member includes a pull-ring.
One of the sealing member and the connection member may include a
peripheral lip and the other one of the sealing member and the
connection member may include a continuous ring having an
engagement groove cooperating with the peripheral lip to
mechanically interlock the connection member and the sealing
member.
[0021] Either the closure base and/or the connection member may
include a recess and the other of the closure base and/or the
connection member may include a protrusion complementary in shape
to the recess. The protrusion and/or the recess may have
trapezoidally-shaped cross-sectional profiles.
[0022] The closure base may be formed of polypropylene,
high-density polyethylene, and/or low-density polyethylene. The
sealing member may be formed of polypropylene, high-density
polyethylene, and/or low-density polyethylene. The connection
member may be formed of low-density polyethylene and/or
thermoplastic elastomer.
[0023] In one embodiment, the closure may be dimensioned and
configured for use with a container having a container opening, a
neck finish, and a locking surface on the neck finish. The closure
may further include a plurality of retaining flaps extending
radially inwardly and upwardly from a lower portion of an outer
skirt of the closure base, each the retaining flap including an
oblique wing having a arcuate inner edge adapted to engage the
locking surface of the container, wherein each wing includes a
concave lower surface dimensioned and configured to closely
approximate the outer diameter of the neck finish below the locking
surface allowing substantially the entire the inner edge to contact
the locking surface. The neck finish may include an anti-rotation
structure, and the closure may further include a vertically
extending gusset extending along at least one of the flaps and
being dimensioned and configured to abut against the anti-rotation
structure of the neck finish. The closure may further include a
plurality of biasing ribs extending radially inward from an inner
surface of the outer skirt toward a respective one of the flaps to
bias the inner edges into contact with the locking surface of the
container.
[0024] In one embodiment, the closure may further include a
plurality of lines of weakness extending upwardly along a lower
portion of an outer skirt of the closure base, the lines of
weakness being dimensioned and configured to split upon at least
partial removal of the closure from the container. The lines of
weakness may extend substantially vertically along the lower
portion of the outer skirt.
[0025] Another aspect of the present invention is directed to a
tamper-evidencing closure for a container having a container
opening, a neck finish, and a locking surface on the neck finish.
The closure includes a closure base having a top and an annular
outer skirt depending from a periphery of the top, a plurality of
retaining flaps extending radially inwardly and upwardly from a
lower portion of the outer skirt, each the retaining flap including
an oblique wing having a arcuate inner edge adapted to engage the
locking surface of the container, wherein each wing includes a
concave lower surface dimensioned and configured to closely
approximate the outer diameter of the neck finish below the locking
surface allowing a majority of the inner edge to contact the
locking surface.
[0026] The neck finish may include anti-rotation structure and the
closure may further include a vertically extending gusset extending
along at least one of the flaps and being dimensioned and
configured to abut against the anti-rotation structure of the neck
finish. The closure may further include a plurality of biasing ribs
extending radially inward from an inner surface of the outer skirt
toward a respective one of the flaps to bias the inner edges into
contact with the locking surface of the container when the closure
is mounted on the container. The closure may further include a
plurality of circumferentially spaced lines of weakness extending
substantially vertically along the lower portion of the outer
skirt, the lines of weakness being dimensioned and configured to
split upon partial removal of the closure from the container.
[0027] Yet another aspect of the present invention is directed to a
tamper-evidencing closure for a container having a container
opening, a neck finish, and a locking surface on the neck finish.
The closure includes a closure base having a top and an annular
outer skirt depending from a periphery of the top, a retainer
extending radially inwardly and upwardly from a lower portion of
the outer skirt, and a plurality of circumferentially spaced lines
of weakness extending biasing ribs extending upwardly along the
lower portion of the outer skirt, the lines of weakness being
dimensioned and configured to split upon partial removal of the
closure from the container.
[0028] In one embodiment, the plurality of lines of weakness extend
substantially vertically along the lower portion of the outer
skirt. The plurality of lines of weakness may extend substantially
parallel to one another. The plurality of lines of weakness may
extend from a bottom edge of the lower portion of the outer
skirt.
[0029] An object of the present invention is to provide a
tamper-evidencing closure system having interconnected discrete
components that can be separated in a facile manner by a consumer
to yield individual components that cannot be reassembled.
[0030] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
method of forming the above-mentioned tamper-evidencing closure
system.
[0031] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
closure base that securely engages a locking surface of a container
neck finish.
[0032] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide
means to resist rotation between a closure base and a container
neck finish.
[0033] A further object of the present invention is to provide
tamper evidencing means extending along a lower skirt portion of a
closure.
[0034] The tamper-evidencing closure system of the present
invention has other features and advantages which will be apparent
from or are set forth in more detail in the accompanying drawings,
which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification,
and the following Detailed Description of the Invention, which
together serve to explain the principles of the present
invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0035] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a tamper-evidencing closure
system in accordance with the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the closure system of FIG.
1.
[0037] FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the closure system of
FIG. 1.
[0038] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the closure system of
FIG. 1 taken substantially along line 4-4 of FIG. 2.
[0039] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the closure system of
FIG. 1 taken substantially along the line 5-5 of FIG. 2.
[0040] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the closure system of
FIG. 1 taken substantially along the line 6-6 of FIG. 2.
[0041] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another tamper-evidencing
closure system in accordance with the present invention.
[0042] FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of the closure system of
FIG. 7.
[0043] FIG. 9 is a top plane view of the closure system of FIG. 7
showing a closure base having a reclosure cap mounted thereon.
[0044] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the closure system of
FIG. 7 taken substantially along the line 10-10 of FIG. 9.
[0045] FIG. 11 is an enlarged detail of FIG. 10.
[0046] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the closure system of
FIG. 7 taken substantially along the line 11-11 of FIG. 9.
[0047] FIG. 13 is an enlarged detail of FIG. 12.
[0048] FIG. 14 is a perspective view, similar to FIG. 7, of another
tamper-evidencing closure system in accordance with the present
invention.
[0049] FIG. 15 is a bottom perspective view of the closure system
of FIG. 14.
[0050] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view, similar to FIG. 4, of
another tamper-evidencing evidencing closure system in accordance
with the present invention.
[0051] FIG. 17 is an upper perspective view of another
tamper-evidencing closure system in accordance with the present
invention.
[0052] FIG. 18 is a lower perspective view of the closure system of
FIG. 17.
[0053] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the closure system of
FIG. 17.
[0054] FIG. 20 is an upper perspective view of a neck finish of a
container that may by used in combination with one or more of the
above closure systems.
[0055] FIG. 21 is a side elevational view of the neck finish of
FIG. 20.
[0056] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional, fragmentary plan view of the
neck finish of FIG. 20, taken substantially along line 22-22 of
FIG. 21.
[0057] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional, fragmentary side elevational
view of the neck finish of FIG. 20, taken substantially along line
23-23 of FIG. 22.
[0058] FIG. 24 is a partial cross-sectional, side elevational view
of the closure system of FIG. 17 applied to the neck finish of FIG.
20.
[0059] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional, fragmentary plan view of the
closure system of FIG. 17 applied to the neck finish of FIG. 20,
taken substantially along line 25-25 of FIG. 24.
[0060] FIG. 26 is an upper perspective view of another closure
system in accordance with the present invention.
[0061] FIG. 27 is an upper perspective view of a connection member
of the closure system of FIG. 26.
[0062] FIG. 28 is a plan view of the closure system of FIG. 26.
[0063] FIG. 29 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the closure
system of FIG. 26 taken along line 29-29 of FIG. 28.
[0064] FIG. 30 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the closure
system of FIG. 26 taken along line 30-30 of FIG. 28.
[0065] FIG. 31 is an upper perspective view of another closure
system in accordance with the present invention.
[0066] FIG. 32 is a lower perspective view of the closure system of
FIG. 31.
[0067] FIG. 33 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the closure
system of FIG. 31 taken substantially along line 33-33 in FIG.
31.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0068] Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred
embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in
the accompanying drawings. While the invention will be described in
conjunction with the preferred embodiments, it will be understood
that they are not intended to limit the invention to those
embodiments. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover
alternatives, modifications and equivalents, which may be included
within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the
appended claims.
[0069] Turning now to the drawings, wherein like components are
designated by like reference numerals throughout the various
figures, attention is directed to FIGS. 1-6 which illustrate a
tamper-evidencing closure system, generally designated 30, which is
adapted to be secured to a container (e.g., container 31a shown in
FIG. 10).
[0070] As shown in FIG. 1, closure system 30 includes a closure
base 34 that is adapted for mounting on the container, a sealing
member 35 for sealing the opening and thus the contents of the
container, and a connection member 36 for releasably connecting the
sealing member 35 to the closure base 34.
[0071] The closure base is generally dimensioned and configured to
be secured to a container adjacent the opening thereof. In the
embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-6, closure base 34 is configured
to mate with a container of the type having a non-threaded neck
finish of the snap-on variety (see, e.g., FIG. 23). One should
appreciate, however, that the closure base of the present invention
is equally suited for use with other types of containers including,
but not limited to, containers having threaded neck finishes as
well as paperboard containers.
[0072] With reference to FIG. 4, closure base 34 includes an
annular top 39 and an outer skirt 40 depending downwardly from an
outer periphery of annular top 39. An upper portion of outer skirt
includes external cap-engaging threads 43 configured and
dimensioned to releasably engage internal threads (e.g., cap
threads 44a as shown in FIG. 10) of a reclosure cap (e.g., cap 45
shown in FIG. 10). One should appreciate that other means can be
utilized to releasably secure the reclosure cap to the closure base
in accordance with the present invention. Alternatively, one should
appreciate that the tamper-evidencing closure system of the present
invention need not incorporate a removable cap. For example, a
resealable or reclosure cap would not be necessary if the closure
system of the present invention is to be used with a school milk
container or other type of single serving container.
[0073] With reference to FIG. 4, a lower portion 48 of skirt 40
includes retaining structure or a retainer 49 which securely
engages closure base 34 on the container. In one embodiment,
retainer 49 includes a retaining band 50 that extends radially
inwardly and upwardly from lower portion 48 of skirt 40 and is
configured to mate with the finish of the container. In the
illustrated embodiment, lower portion 48 and retaining band 50 form
a J-shaped structure that is dimensioned and configured to
cooperate with a locking surface (e.g., locking surface 52a shown
in FIG. 10) on the container in a manner similar to that disclosed
by U.S. Pat. No. 5,913,437 to Ma, the entire content of which is
incorporated herein by this reference. Unlike the structure
disclosed by the '437 patent, however, the retaining band 50 is
configured to provide the primary engagement between closure base
34 and the container. The J-shaped configuration facilitates
application of closure base 34 to a container neck in that such
configuration requires lower axial application force than other
conventional closures. Advantageously, this configuration also
allows greater interference between the closure plug seal and the
container, which in turn provides better sealing performance.
[0074] With continued reference to FIG. 4, retaining band 50
includes a plurality of gussets 51 which are configured and
dimensioned to cooperate with corresponding structure on the
container neck in order to restrict rotational movement of closure
base 34 with respect to container neck. In this manner, the
configuration of gussets 51 facilitates threading and unthreading
the reclosure cap on closure base 34 because the gussets limit
rotational movement between the closure base and the container.
[0075] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, retainer 49 includes a
plurality of vertical lines of weakness 53 aligned with a
corresponding number of drainage holes 53 located in retainer 49
adjacent the intersection of retaining band 50 and lower portion 48
of the outer skirt. The configuration of the drainage holes 54 and
vertical lines of weakness 53 provides an additional
tamper-evidencing feature that facilitates damage to or destruction
of closure base 34 in the event that someone attempt to remove it
from the container once the closure base has been applied to the
container. In particular, should someone attempt to pry closure
base 34 from the container neck, lower portion 48 of the outer
skirt will split along one or more vertical lines 53 thus providing
visible evidence that the contents of the container may have been
accessed and/or tampered with. One should appreciate that the
closure base need not be provided with such vertical lines of
weakness and/or drainage holes 54. In the event that the closure
base includes both vertical lines of weakness and drainage holes,
one should appreciate that the vertical lines need not be aligned
with the drainage holes in the retaining band to provide
tamper-evidencing.
[0076] Turning to FIG. 4, closure base 34 also includes an inner
skirt 56 depending from an inner edge of annular top 39 and
cooperates by way of an interference fit with the inside bore of
the container neck (e.g., container neck 57a shown in FIG. 11) to
define a plug seal which serves as the primary seal between the
tamper-evidencing closure and the container. An annular bottom 58
extends radially inward from the bottom of inner skirt 56. Inner
edge 61 of bottom 58 defines an aperture that is initially closed
or sealed by sealing member 35 and connection member 36. As
discussed in greater detail below, a consumer may remove the
sealing member and the connection member in order to gain access to
the contents of the container.
[0077] The plug seal configuration of the present invention
provides improved sealing performance as inner skirt 56 is
supported at the top and bottom thereof. In particular, the
structural integrity of the top of inner skirt 56 is reinforced by
annular top 39 while the structural integrity of the bottom is
reinforced by annular bottom 58.
[0078] Although the amount of application force required to apply
the plug seal configuration of the present invention may be greater
than a standard hollow plug, such increased application force is
possible because the retainer configuration of the present
invention requires a lesser amount of application force. Keeping
the overall application force necessary to apply a closure to a
container constant, more force can be applied to the plug seal
configuration of closure system 30 because the configuration of
retainer 49 requires less force, as is noted above.
[0079] Although the sealing member and connection member of the
illustrated embodiment are set within a well, one should appreciate
that the closure base of the present invention need not be provided
with a well. For example, the connection member may directly
interconnect the sealing member to the annular top in accordance
with the present invention. In this example, the primary seal may
be located between the annular top and the container neck.
Alternatively, one should also appreciate that connection member
may directly interconnect the sealing member and the outer skirt
and/or other portion of the closure base. For the purpose of the
present invention, the term "closure base" broadly refers to the
component used to secure the tamper-evidencing closure system to a
corresponding container.
[0080] Preferably, closure base 34 is formed of polypropylene,
high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE),
or other suitable material which provides the closure base with
suitable structural integrity. One should appreciate that other
materials can be used in accordance with the present invention.
[0081] As most clearly shown in FIG. 1, closure system 30 also
includes a sealing member 35 which is dimensioned and configured to
substantially seal the aperture formed by inner edge 61 of the
closure base and thus seal the container. Sealing member 35
generally includes a relatively thin membrane 62 and a gripping
member 63. Membrane 62 has an outer diameter that is slightly less
than the inner diameter of the aperture formed by inner edge 61.
For the purpose of the present invention, the term "membrane" is
also intended to cover any relatively inflexible structure that is
dimensioned to substantially cover the aperture formed by inner
edge 61.
[0082] Sealing member 35 also includes a peripheral lip 67
extending along the outer perimeter of membrane 62, as shown in
FIG. 4. Peripheral lip 67 includes an engagement groove 70, which
is configured to cooperate with connection member 36 as is
discussed in greater detail below.
[0083] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, gripping member 63
in the form of a pull-ring 71 and is of generally conventional
design. Namely, pull-ring 71 is connected to membrane 62 by post 72
and forms a generally circular loop. The loop is dimensioned to
receive the finger of a consumer thus allowing the consumer to grip
and pull the pull-ring in order to remove sealing member 35 from
closure base 34.
[0084] Preferably, sealing member 35 is formed of polypropylene,
high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE),
or other suitable material that provides the sealing member with
suitable structural integrity. One should appreciate that other
materials can be used in accordance with the present invention.
Preferably, the sealing member is monolithically formed with the
closure base.
[0085] Connection member 36 interconnects the closure base 34 and
sealing member 35. The connection member includes a continuous ring
74 that has an engagement groove 75 which cooperates with
engagement groove 70 of sealing member 35 to provide a strong
mechanical joint between the sealing member and the connection
member, as shown in FIG. 4.
[0086] As shown in FIG. 2, connection member 36 also includes a
plurality of radially extending protrusions 76 that extend
outwardly from continuous ring 74. In the illustrated embodiment,
twelve protrusions are circumferentially spaced about continuous
ring 74. One should appreciate, however, the number of protrusions
as well as spacing of the protrusions may vary in accordance with
the present invention. Alternatively, a complementary groove and
shoulder arrangement similar to that between sealing member 35 and
connection member 36 may be used to interconnect connection member
36 as closure base 34. Likewise, a radially extending
protrusion/recess configuration may be utilized to interconnect
sealing member 35 and connection member 36.
[0087] As shown in FIG. 5, each protrusion 76 has a trapezoidal
cross-section that is complementary to the shape of a corresponding
recess 79 formed on annular bottom 58. In essence, protrusion 76
forms a key that is received within the keyway that is formed by
recess 79 and thus provides a strong mechanical joint which
prevents sealing member 35 from moving axially with respect to
annular bottom 58 of closure base 34. One should appreciate that
the cross-sectional profile of the protrusions and recesses may
vary in accordance with present invention. For example, the
protrusions may include a semicircular cross-section, a triangular
cross-section, or other suitable profile to provide an intimate
mechanical connection between the connection member and the closure
base. Such cross-sectional configurations allow ready release of
the interengaging structures but renders reassembly extremely
difficult.
[0088] Preferably, connection member 36 is formed of a tearable
material such as a low-density polyethylene (LDPE) based material
or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). One should appreciate that
other suitable tearable materials can be used in accordance with
the present invention.
[0089] Connection member 36 is formed of a material that is more
pliable, that is, supple enough to bend freely or repeatedly
without breaking, and that would more readily yield than the
material forming at least one of the sealing member and the closure
base. For example, closures used in hot-fill applications are often
formed of polypropylene, a relatively rigid material that possesses
significant structural integrity. Disadvantageously, polypropylene
is unsuitable for forming structures having a continuous tear line
that is intended to be torn by a consumer. In accordance with the
present invention, the closure base and/or the sealing member may
be formed of polypropylene while the connection member may be
formed of a low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or a thermoplastic
elastomer. This two material configuration allows the use of a
pull-ring in a hot-fill application.
[0090] Connection member 36 connects and joins membrane 62 of
sealing member 35 to annular ring 58 of closure base 34 in such a
way that the connection member does not integrally bond to at least
one of the sealing member and the closure base, namely, the
component is formed of the different material. In the illustrated
embodiment, connection member 36 is discrete from closure base 34
and sealing member 35. However, it is understood that connection
member may be integrally molded of the same material and at the
same time as either one of the closure base or the sealing member
provided that a mechanical joint is formed that can be readily
separated by a consumer.
[0091] In one embodiment, the tamper-evidencing closure of the
present invention is manufactured utilizing multi-shot or
over-molding injection molding technologies. For example, the
embodiment of FIGS. 1-6 is produced by shuttle molding by molding
connection member 36 in a first injected shot utilizing a first
mold core and/or cavity followed by in situ molding of closure base
34 and sealing member 35 in a subsequent shot utilizing a second
mold core and/or cavity. In this manner, a very precise and
intimate joining of the complementary mechanical interlocking
structures between connection member 36 and closure base 34, as
well as between the connection member and sealing member 35, can be
achieved. Such an intimate joint configuration of a closure could
not be achieved or would be very difficult to accomplish by
conventional closure manufacturing methods. For example, it is not
commercially feasible to mold the sealing member and the closure
base separately and then precisely assemble these components in a
post-molding assembly operation.
[0092] The method of using the tamper-evidencing closure in
accordance with the present invention can now be described. In
operation and use, when a consumer is ready to access the contents
of the container, the consumer will first remove the reclosure cap
to access gripping member 63 of the sealing member. With the
reclosure cap removed and gripping member 63 readily accessible,
the consumer will insert his or her finger through pull-ring 71 and
firmly grip the pull-ring. Next the consumer will pull the
pull-ring, along with the remainder of sealing member 35, upwardly
in such a manner that connection member 36 will tear away from
annular bottom 58 of closure base 34. As connection member 36 tears
away from annular bottom 58, protrusions 76 will tear away and/or
otherwise disengage from recesses 79. Continued pulling of
pull-ring 66 will completely disengage sealing member 35 and
connection member 36 from closure base 34 thus providing access to
the contents of the container.
[0093] Once the sealing member is removed, interlocking engagement
between connection member 36 and annular bottom 58 is broken by
physical separation. Once separated, it is virtually impossible to
reassemble or otherwise engage connection member 36 to closure base
from which it was separated due to the design of the interengaging
structures, that is, the design of protrusions 76 and recesses
79.
[0094] In another embodiment of the present invention, closure
system 30a is similar to closure system 30 described above but
includes a modified sealing member 35a and a modified connection
member 36a as shown in FIGS. 7-13. Like reference numerals have
been used to describe like components of closure system 30a and
closure system 30.
[0095] In this embodiment, connection member 36a includes a center
84 and a spoke 85 interconnecting center 84 and continuous ring
74a, as most clearly seen in FIGS. 8 and 10. The spoke
configuration of connection member 36a allows central positioning
of a injection molding hot tip. Although only one spoke 85 is
illustrated, one should appreciate that one, two, three or more
spokes may be utilized to provide a path of material from the
center to the continuous ring.
[0096] In the embodiment of FIGS. 7-13, recesses 79a are in the
form of channels which extend outwardly along a bottom surface of
annular bottom 58a and upwardly, along an outer surface of inner
skirt 56a, and to an annular seal 87 that is monolithically formed
with connecting member 36a. As shown in FIG. 11, the annular seal
extends up and around the upper portion of container neck 57a and
provides a significant sealing surface. Optionally, annular seal 87
is provided with one or more sealing beads 88 to provide improved
sealing performance.
[0097] With reference to FIG. 10, membrane 62a of sealing member
35a has a dome shape. The dome configuration of the membrane allows
greater sealing force under vacuum and/or hot-fill applications.
For example, the vacuum created within container 31a during the
application process may tend to draw membrane 62a downward. With
the plug seal configuration of the present invention, such downward
force and/or motion may cause the outer perimeter membrane 62a to
slightly expand whereby a lower portion of inner skirt 56a will
exert a force against the insider surface of container neck 57a and
thus improve sealing performance.
[0098] In operation and use, closure system 30a is used in
substantially the same manner as closure system 30 discussed
above.
[0099] In another embodiment of the present invention, closure
system 30b is similar to closure systems 30 and 30a described above
but includes an integral sealing and connection member generally
designated by the numeral 91, hereinafter integral member 91, as
shown in FIGS. 14 and 15. Like reference numerals have been used to
describe like components of closure system 30b and closure systems
30 and 30a.
[0100] In this embodiment, integral member 91 incorporates membrane
62b and gripping member 63b as well as protrusions 76b in a
monolithically formed component. Preferably, integral member 91 is
formed of polypropylene, high-density polyethylene (HDPE),
low-density polyethylene (LDPE), or a thermoplastic elastomer
(TPE). One should appreciate that other suitable materials can be
used to form the integral member in accordance with the present
invention.
[0101] Membrane 62b of integral member 91 substantially seals the
aperture formed by inner edge 61b in a manner similar to that
discussed above with reference to the embodiment shown in FIGS.
7-13. Likewise, protrusions 76b releasably and mechanically
interconnect membrane 62b and closure base 34b in a manner similar
to that discussed above. The monolithic configuration of integral
member 91 may simplify the design and production of the closure
system, however, one will appreciate that the integral member must
have sufficient structural integrity that protrusions 76b will
yield and separate from the corresponding structure of closure base
34b before gripping member 63b fails and is torn away from membrane
62b.
[0102] One will also appreciate that the integral member may take
other forms and configurations in accordance with the present
invention. For example, an integral member may be formed by
monolithically forming sealing member 35 and connection member 36
as a single component that is releasably connected to closure base
34. Alternatively, an integral member may be formed by
monolithically forming connection member 36 and closure base 34 as
a single component in which case sealing member 35 is releasably
connected to the integral member.
[0103] In operation and use, closure system 30b is used in
substantially the same manner as closure systems 30 and 30a
discussed above.
[0104] In yet another embodiment, closure system 30c is similar to
closure systems 30, 30a and 30b described above but includes a
retainer 49c used in combination with a monolithically-formed
closure base, sealing member and connecting member, hereinafter
fitment member 95, as shown in FIG. 16. Like reference numerals
have been used to describe like components of closure system 30c
and closure systems 30, 30a and 30b.
[0105] In this embodiment, fitment member 95 includes a connecting
member in the form of a circular line of weakness 96 that
interconnects sealing member 35c and closure base 34c in a manner
similar to a conventional fitment of the type disclosed by U.S.
Pat. No. 6,464,096 to Adams et al, the entire content of which is
incorporated herein by this reference. In the illustrated
embodiment, the circular line of weakness is formed by a downward
facing groove, however, one will appreciate that an upward facing
groove may be utilized. Preferably, fitment member 95 is formed of
low-density polyethylene (LDPE), however, one should appreciate
that other suitable materials can be used to form the fitment
member in accordance with the present invention.
[0106] In this embodiment, retainer 49c includes gussets 51c that
are modified in that the gussets include an upper spiked edge 99
extending above the top edge of retaining band 50c. The spiked
configuration of gussets 51c not only allows the gussets to
cooperate with corresponding structure on the container neck spaced
radially inward from retaining band 50c but also allows the gussets
to cooperate with corresponding structure on the container neck
that is axially space above retaining band 50c.
[0107] Unlike prior fitments, fitment member 95 is applied to a
container such that retainer 49c engages the container in a snap-on
manner similar to that of retainer 49 discussed above. In operation
and use, closure system 30c is used in substantially the same
manner as closure systems 30, 30a and 30b discussed above.
[0108] In another embodiment of the present invention shown in
FIGS. 17-25, closure system 30d is similar to those described above
but includes a modified closure base 34d. Like reference numerals
have been used to describe like components of closure system 30d
and those of the closure systems described above.
[0109] In this embodiment, closure system 34d and sealing member
35d are monolithically formed and are interconnected by a line of
weakness 96d in a manner similar to that discussed above. One will
appreciate that one or more of the following features of closure
system 30d may be utilized on any one of the closure systems
described above.
[0110] In this embodiment, closure base 34d includes a retainer in
the form of a plurality of retaining flaps 99 which extend radially
inwardly and upwardly from a lower portion 48d of outer skirt 40d
thus forming a J-shaped structure that is dimensioned and
configured to cooperate with a locking surface of the container
(e.g., locking surface 52a shown in FIG. 10 and locking surface 52d
shown in FIG. 21). In the illustrated embodiment, the closure base
includes eight retaining flaps, however, one will appreciate that
the number of retaining flaps may vary.
[0111] Unlike the above described retainers or retaining means,
each retaining flap 99 includes an oblique, inwardly directed wing
100 that is dimensioned to closely conform to neck finish 32d of
container 31d and engage locking surface 52d of the container neck
finish 32d when the closure base is mounted on the container. As
the retaining flaps are relatively flexible, the retaining flaps
are hinged with respect to lower portion 48d, whereby wings 100
initially extend substantially horizontally (see FIG. 19) and upon
application to the container, the lower portion of flaps 99 extend
substantially vertically (see FIG. 24).
[0112] In the illustrated embodiment, wing 100 extends obliquely
with respect to the lower portion of retaining flap 99, preferably
in the range of approximately 120.degree. to 150.degree., and more
preferably approximately 135.degree.. Wing 100 also includes a
curved inner edge 102 and a lower concave face 103. The concave
face is dimensioned to closely approximate the outer diameter of
the container neck finish below the locking surface (see, e.g.,
locking surface 52e in FIG. 21). The concave configuration of the
face allows the majority of the inner edge to abut against locking
surface instead of tangential contact if the face were flat. Thus,
the concave configuration increases the amount of contact between
inner edge 102 and locking surface 52e when closure base 34d is
applied to the container 31d as compared to prior restraining
devices. Furthermore, the dogleg configuration of flap 99 (as shown
in FIG. 24) ensures that an inner edge 102 of wing 100 remains
positioned below locking surface 52d.
[0113] With reference to FIG. 19, the closure base is also provided
with a plurality of circumferentially spaced biasing ribs 104 that
extend radially inward from an inner surface of outer skirt 40d.
The biasing ribs 104 are dimensioned and configured to abut against
and bias retaining flaps 99 inwardly such that inner edge 102 of
wing 100 remains below locking surface 52d. The provision of
biasing ribs 104 may also minimize the amount of material necessary
to form the closure base. For example, since the biasing ribs 104
abut against and thus bias wings 100 inwardly, the wall thickness
of flaps 99 and wings 100 need not be sufficiently thick to provide
a rigid member.
[0114] Each retaining flap 99 includes a gusset 51d that is
dimensioned to cooperate with anti-rotation structure 105 located
on neck finish 32d of container 31d. As shown in FIG. 20,
anti-rotation structure 105 includes a plurality of teeth 106
circumferentially spaced about the neck finish of container 31d
below the locking surface 52d. As the effective inner diameter of
gussets 51d is less than the effective outer diameter of teeth 106,
gussets 51d will abut against a respective tooth 106 and thus
prevent rotation of closure base 34d with respect to the neck
finish of container 31d.
[0115] The anti-rotation configuration not only facilitates removal
of reclosure cap 45d from closure base 34d, the anti-rotation
configuration also prevents removal of the closure base 34d from
the container 31d. As one familiar with the field of closures will
appreciate, removal of a snap-on closure may be facilitated by
twisting or rotating the snap-on closure relative to the container
while axially pulling the snap-on closure away from the container.
Thus, preventing rotation of the closure base will further prevent
removal of the closure base from the container.
[0116] Closure base 34d is also provided with a plurality of
vertical lines of weakness similar to those described above. In
this embodiment, lines of weakness 53d extend upwardly along lower
skirt portion 48d. In the illustrated embodiment, the lines of
weakness extend substantially vertically, however, one will
appreciate that the lines of weakness may extend obliquely with
respect to the bottom of lower skirt portion. Also, lines of
weakness 53d are provided on an interior surface of lower skirt
portion 48d that extends below retaining flaps 99, however, the
lines of weakness may be provided on an external surface of the
lower skirt portion. Furthermore, one will appreciate that the
lines of weakness may be symmetrically or asymmetrically around the
outer skirt.
[0117] In this embodiment, the wall thickness of lower skirt
portion 48d is significantly thinner than outer skirt 40d, and the
wall thickness of vertical lines of weakness 53d is thinner still.
Thus, the force required to split lower skirt portion 48d is
minimal whereby substantially any attempt to pry closure base 34d
from the container neck 32d will cause lower portion 34d to split
along one or more vertical lines of weakness 53d thus providing
visible evidence that the contends of the container may have been
accessed and/or tampered with. One will appreciate that the wall
thickness of the vertical lines of weakness and the wall thickness
of the lower skirt portion may vary in accordance with the present
invention. One will appreciate that the number of vertical lines of
weakness, and the location (e.g., internal, external, or
combination thereof) may also vary.
[0118] In this embodiment, annular top 39d extends inwardly from
the top of outer skirt 40d, as shown in FIG. 19, and allows for a
lower-profile reclosure cap configuration. For example, the plug
46d of reclosure cap 45d may be dimensioned to provide an
interference fit with inner skirt 56d. Such a configuration thus
provides a primary sealing surface, once sealing member 35 is
removed, between reclosure cap 45d and closure base 34d that is
closer to the container aperture.
[0119] In operation and use, closure system 30d is used in
substantially the same manner as the closure systems discussed
above.
[0120] In another embodiment of the present invention shown in
FIGS. 26-30, closure system 30e is similar in some aspects to those
described above but includes a low-profile closure base that is
designed for use with containers having a relatively wide-profile
opening. Like reference numerals have been used to describe like
components of closure system 30e and those of the closure systems
described above.
[0121] Closure system 30e is dimensioned and configured such that
it may be used with containers having a relatively low profile and
a relatively large container opening. For example, closure system
30e may be used in combination with cosmetics containers, however,
one will appreciate that closure system 30e may be used in
combination with other types of containers including, but not
limited to, beverage containers.
[0122] As shown in FIG. 26, closure system 30e includes a closure
base 34e that is adapted for mounting on the container, a sealing
member 35e for sealing the container opening and thus the contents
of the container, and a connection member 36e for releasably
connecting the sealing member 35e to the closure base 34e.
[0123] With reference to FIGS. 29 and 30, closure base 34e includes
an annular top 39e and an outer skirt 40e depending downwardly from
an outer periphery of annular top 39. A lower portion of skirt 40e
includes retaining structure in the form of a retaining bead 109
which securely mounts closure base 34e on a container in a well
known manner.
[0124] As most clearly shown in FIGS. 29 and 30, closure system 30e
also includes a sealing member 35e which is dimensioned and
configured to substantially seal the aperture formed by inner edge
61e of the closure base and thus seal the container. Sealing member
35e generally includes a relatively thin membrane 62e and a
gripping member 63e. Membrane 62e has an outer diameter that is
slightly less than the inner diameter of the aperture formed by
inner edge 61e.
[0125] In the illustrated embodiment, gripping member 63e in the
form of a pull-ring 71e that is connected to membrane 62e by post
72e and forms a generally circular loop. The loop is dimensioned to
receive the finger of a consumer thus allowing the consumer to grip
and pull the pull-ring in order to remove sealing member 35e from
closure base 34e.
[0126] Connection member 36e connects and joins membrane 62e of
sealing member 35e to annular ring 58e of closure base 34e in such
a way that the connection member sealingly bonds but does not
integrally bond to at least one of the sealing member and the
closure base, namely, the component is formed of the different
material.
[0127] In this embodiment, connection member 36e includes a center
84e and a plurality of spokes 85e interconnecting center 84e and a
continuous ring 74e, as most clearly seen in FIG. 27. The spoke
configuration of connection member 36e allows central positioning
of a injection molding hot tip. Although four spokes 85e are
illustrated, one should appreciate that one, two, three or more
spokes may be utilized to provide a path of material from the
center to the continuous ring.
[0128] Frangible bridges 110 may be provided, however, that extend
between closure base 34e and sealing member 35e. The frangible
bridges may serve to provide a path for material to flow during the
molding process from the sealing member to the closure base (and/or
vise versa) and/or to position sealing member with respect to the
closure base.
[0129] Preferably, closure system 34e is manufactured utilizing
multi-shot or over-molding injection molding technologies. For
example, closure base 34e and sealing member 35e are formed with a
first injected shot utilizing a first mold core and/or cavity
followed by in situ molding of connecting member 36e in a
subsequent shot utilizing a second mold core and/or cavity. In this
manner, a very precise and intimate joining of the complementary
mechanical interlocking structures between connection member 36 and
closure base 34, as well as between the connection member and
sealing member 35, can be achieved.
[0130] In operation and use, closure system 30e is used in
substantially the same manner as those discussed above.
[0131] In another embodiment of the present invention shown in
FIGS. 31-33, closure system 30f, in some aspects, is similar to
those described above. Like reference numerals have been used to
describe like components of closure system 30f and those of the
closure systems described above.
[0132] As shown in FIG. 31, closure system 30f includes a closure
base 34f that is adapted for mounting on the container, a sealing
member 35f for sealing the opening and thus the contents of the
container, and a connection member 36f for releasably connecting
the sealing member 35f to the closure base 34f.
[0133] With reference to FIGS. 31 and 32, closure base 34f is in
the form of an annular ring 113 that is applied to a container
about the opening thereof. The annular ring may be adhered, heat
sealed, or otherwise affixed to the container by suitable
well-known means.
[0134] As most clearly shown in FIGS. 29 and 30, closure system 30f
also includes a sealing member 35f which is dimensioned and
configured to substantially seal the aperture formed between inner
edge 61f of the closure base and the outer periphery of membrane
62f of the sealing member, and thusly seal the container. Sealing
member 35f generally includes a relatively thin membrane 62f and a
gripping member 63f. Membrane 62f has an outer diameter that is
slightly less than the inner diameter of the aperture formed by
inner edge 61f.
[0135] In the illustrated embodiment, gripping member 63f in the
form of a pull tab 114 that is connected to membrane 62f adjacent
the perimeter thereof. The tab is dimensioned to allow a consumer
to grip and pull the pull tab in order to remove sealing member 35f
from closure base 34f.
[0136] Connection member 36f connects and joins membrane 62f of
sealing member 35f to annular ring 58f of closure base 34f in such
a way that the connection member sealingly bonds but does not
integrally bond to at least one of the sealing member and the
closure base, namely, the connection member is formed of the
different material.
[0137] With reference to FIG. 33, connection member 36f includes a
continuous ring 74f which extend circumferentially around the
sealing member and fills the void between the sealing member and
the closure base 34f. The connection member 36 also includes an
upper flange 116 and a lower flange 117 which provide the
connection member with a substantially I-shaped cross-section. The
I-shaped configuration enhances the structural integrity of the
mechanical joint by providing opposing channels that receive and
thus engage the closure base and the sealing member,
respectively.
[0138] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper and lower flanges
do not extend completely around the sealing member but instead
terminate on either side of the pull tab. Such a
discontinuous-configuration facilitates removal of the sealing
member. Namely, the amount of force required to initiate separation
of the portion of sealing member 35f immediately adjacent the pull
tab from connection member 36f, and/or connection member 36f from
closure base 34f, is significantly less than the amount of force
which would be required if this portion of the connection member
were channel or I-shaped. One will appreciate that the flanges may
extend continuously 360.degree. around the sealing member.
[0139] Connection member 36f also includes a center 84f and a
plurality of spokes 85f interconnecting center 84f and a continuous
ring 74f, as most clearly seen in FIG. 32. The spoke configuration
of connection member 36f allows central positioning of a injection
molding hot tip in the same manner as discussed above.
[0140] Preferably, closure system 34f is manufactured utilizing
multi-shot or over-molding injection molding technologies. For
example, closure base 34f and sealing member 35f are formed with a
first injected shot utilizing a first mold core and/or cavity
followed by in situ molding of connecting member 36f in a
subsequent shot utilizing a second mold core and/or cavity. In this
manner, a very precise and intimate joining of the complementary
mechanical interlocking structures between connection member 36f
and closure base 34f, as well as between the connection member and
sealing member 35f, can be achieved. To facilitate molding,
frangible bridges (not shown) may be provided that extend between
closure base 34f and sealing member 35f in the same manner
discussed above.
[0141] In operation and use, closure system 30f is used in
substantially the same manner as those discussed above.
[0142] For convenience in explanation and accurate definition in
the appended claims, the terms "up" or "upper", "down" or "lower",
"inner" and "outer", "vertically" and "horizontally" and other
directionally relative terms are used to describe features of the
present invention with reference to the positions of such features
as displayed in the figures.
[0143] In many respects the modifications of the various figures
resemble those of preceding modifications and the same reference
numerals followed by the subscript "a", "b", "c", etc. designate
corresponding parts.
[0144] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the
present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration
and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit
the invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many
modifications and variations are possible in light of the above
teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to
best explain the principles of the invention and its practical
application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best
utilize the invention and various embodiments with various
modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It
is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the
claims appended hereto and their equivalents.
* * * * *