U.S. patent application number 13/828350 was filed with the patent office on 2014-02-06 for cap assembly for dispensing a dispensable component and method of making and using the same.
This patent application is currently assigned to VIZ ENTERPRISES, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is VIZ ENTERPRISES, LLC. Invention is credited to Richard A. GROSS, Dieter F. LAY.
Application Number | 20140034183 13/828350 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50024301 |
Filed Date | 2014-02-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140034183 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
GROSS; Richard A. ; et
al. |
February 6, 2014 |
CAP ASSEMBLY FOR DISPENSING A DISPENSABLE COMPONENT AND METHOD OF
MAKING AND USING THE SAME
Abstract
Cap can include a cap body mountable to a container. A main bore
is disposed in the cap body. A movable component holder has a lower
end, an upper end, and a space sized and configured to contain a
dispensable component. At least a first seal provides sealing
between an inner surface of the cap body and an outer surface of
the component holder. The first seal at least one of is disposed on
a generally circumferential wall and is located axially above an
annular upper wall of the cap body, is arranged on a generally
circumferential wall that can deflect slightly radially outwardly,
projects from the inner surface of the cap body, is axially fixed
to the inner surface of the cap body, is disposed at an upper end
of the main bore, is arranged above an uppermost annular surface of
the cap body, is slidably engageable with an outer circumferential
surface of the component holder, is located adjacent an upper end
of an inner tubular section of the cap body. The can further
includes a cover installable on the upper end of the component
holder.
Inventors: |
GROSS; Richard A.;
(Pewaukee, WI) ; LAY; Dieter F.; (Oconomowoc,
WI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
VIZ ENTERPRISES, LLC |
Wilmington |
DE |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
VIZ ENTERPRISES, LLC
Wilmington
DE
|
Family ID: |
50024301 |
Appl. No.: |
13/828350 |
Filed: |
March 14, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61677728 |
Jul 31, 2012 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
141/1 ; 141/311R;
141/383; 53/416 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65B 29/06 20130101;
B65D 51/2864 20130101; B65D 2401/25 20200501 |
Class at
Publication: |
141/1 ;
141/311.R; 141/383; 53/416 |
International
Class: |
B65D 51/28 20060101
B65D051/28; B65B 29/06 20060101 B65B029/06 |
Claims
1. A cap comprising: a cap body mountable to a container; a main
bore disposed in the cap body; a movable component holder
comprising a lower end, an upper end, and a space sized and
configured to contain a dispensable component; at least a first
seal providing sealing between an inner surface of the cap body and
an outer surface of the component holder; the first seal at least
one of: being disposed on a generally circumferential wall and
located axially above an annular upper wall of the cap body; being
arranged on a generally circumferential wall that can deflect
slightly radially outwardly; projecting from the inner surface of
the cap body; being axially fixed to the inner surface of the cap
body; being disposed at an upper end of the main bore; being
arranged above an uppermost annular surface of the cap body;
slidably engageable with an outer circumferential surface of the
component holder; and being located adjacent an upper end of an
inner tubular section of the cap body; and a cover installable on
the upper end of the component holder, wherein, when the cover is
installed and the component holder is in an initial or retracted
position, a portion of each of the cap body, the component holder,
and the cover is adapted to come into contact with the dispensable
component, and wherein, when the cap is arranged on the container
and the component holder is arranged in a dispensing position, the
dispensable component can pass into the container through a portion
of the component holder disposed between the lower end and a
portion of the cap body.
2. The cap of claim 1, further comprising a removable strip
connected to the cap body.
3. The cap of claim 1, further comprising a removable strip at
least one of: is arranged between a portion of the component holder
and a surface of the cap body; has an upper end removably connected
to a portion of the component holder; has a lower end contacting or
arranged adjacent a portion of the cap body; and is integrally
formed with the component holder,
4. The cap of claim 1, wherein the cover is at least one of:
non-removably installed on the upper end of the component holder;
arranged to close off an opening in the upper end which allows the
dispensable component to pass into the space; and generally
dome-shaped.
5. The cap of claim 1, further comprising at least one of: a second
seal arranged in an area of the lower end of the component holder
and being in a sealing position when the component holder is in the
initial or retracted position; a second seal having a sealing
engagement diameter that is smaller than a sealing engagement
diameter of the first seal; a second seal axially spaced from the
first seal by an axial distance that is greater than a maximum
allowable axial movement of the component holder; a second seal
axially spaced from the first seal by an axial distance that is
greater than an axial distance between a locking projection
arranged on the component holder and an annular shoulder arranged
on the cap body; a second seal axially spaced from the first seal
and being arranged above an annular shoulder disposed on the cap
body; a second seal axially spaced from the first seal and being
arranged on a generally circumferential wall disposed axially below
a bottom wall of the component holder; and a second seal comprising
a primary seal preventing the dispensable component from passing
out of the space into the container and the first seal being a
sliding seal.
6. The cap of claim 5, wherein the first and second seals provide
sealing when the component holder is in the initial or retracted
position and only the first seal provides sealing when the
component holder is in the dispensing position.
7. The cap of claim 1, further comprising a locking arrangement
structured and arranged to lock the component holder in the
dispensing position.
8. The cap of claim 7, wherein the locking arrangement comprises a
locking projection arranged on the component holder and a locking
shoulder arranged on the cap body.
9. The cap of claim 7, wherein the locking arrangement comprises a
circumferential locking projection arranged on the component holder
and an annular locking shoulder arranged on the cap body.
10. The cap of claim 7, wherein the locking arrangement comprises
an axially movable projection arranged on the component holder and
an axially fixed annular shoulder arranged on the cap body.
11. The cap of claim 1, wherein at least one of: the cap body is a
one-piece member and the cover is a one-piece member; and the cap
body has an outer portion and a concentrically arranged inner
portion and an axial length of the outer portion is shorter than an
axial length of the inner portion.
12. The cap of claim 1, further comprising a removable strip that
at least one of: prevents movement of the component holder from the
initial or retracted position to the dispensing position until the
removable strip is removed; and is a generally cylindrical
strip-shaped member having a pull-tab and being connected with a
frangible or breakable connection to the upper end of the component
holder.
13. The cap of claim 1, wherein the component holder comprises one
of: a tapered bottom; a conical shaped bottom wall; a bottom wall
having a shape configured to facilitate a flowing out of the
dispensable component when the component holder is arranged in the
dispensing position; legs connecting a bottom wall to a main body
portion of the component holder; openings disposed between legs
allowing the dispensable component to pass out of the space; and
openings and legs axially arranged between first and second axially
spaced seals of the component holder.
14. The cap of claim 1, wherein the original or retracted position
is a releasably lockable storage position and the dispensing
position is a non-releasably lockable position.
15. The cap of claim 1, wherein the cover is at least one of:
structured and arranged to receive a desiccant; press fit attached
to the upper end of the component holder; and in sealing engagement
with the upper end of the component holder.
16. The cap of claim 1, wherein the main bore of the cap body is
defined by a generally cylindrical inner wall, and wherein the cap
body further comprises at least one of: an outer wall spaced from
and surrounding the inner wall and having an internal thread or
thread segments arranged on an inner surface of the outer wall; and
a tamper-evident ring connected to a lower end of the outer wall of
the cap body.
17. A method of assembling the cap of claim 1, the method
comprising: inserting the component holder, lower end first, into
the main bore of the cap body; after the inserting, placing a
measured amount of the dispensable component into the space; and
attaching the cover to the upper end of the component holder.
18. A method of using the cap of claim 1, the method comprising:
applying a force to the upper end of the component holder
sufficient to cause the component holder to move from the initial
or retracted position to the dispensing position, wherein, in the
dispensing position, at least one of: substantially all of the
dispensable component passes into the container from the space;
substantially all of the dispensable component automatically passes
into the container from the space; and substantially all of the
dispensable component passes into the container from the space
under the influence of gravity.
19. A cap comprising: a cap body mountable to a container and
comprising a bore; a component holder comprising an upper portion,
an internal space for accommodating a dispensable component, a
lower portion, and a bottom wall; the lower portion being
positionable inside the bore; first and second axially spaced seals
providing sealing between the component holder and the cap body;
the first seal being axially fixed to a portion of the cap body;
the second seal being movable from an initial sealing position to a
non-sealing position when the component holder is moved to an
activated position; at least one opening arranged between the first
and second axially spaced seals; the upper portion comprising at
least a partially dome-shaped surface and an opening allowing the
dispensable component to enter into the space; and a removable tear
strip at least one of: being structured and arranged to prevent the
component holder from moving downward relative to the cap body
until the tear strip is removed; and providing a compression
barrier against activation of the cap, wherein, in a storage
position, a portion of each of the cap body and the component
holder is adapted to come into contact with a dispensable
component, and wherein, when the cap is arranged on the container
and the component holder is moved to the activated position, the
dispensable component can pass into the container through the at
least one opening.
20. A cap for carbonated beverages, comprising: a cap body
mountable to a container and comprising an inner wall having a
bore; a movable component holder comprising a lower end, an upper
end, a space sized to contain a dispensable component; first and
second axially spaced seal zones arranged to provide sealing
between the component holder and the inner wall of the cap body;
the first seal zone arranged on the lower region of the component
holder and utilizing sealing engagement with an inner surface of
the inner wall of the cap body; the second seal zone arranged on an
upper region the inner wall and utilizing sealing engagement with
an outer surface of the component holder; a cover in locking
engagement with a portion of the upper end of the component holder,
wherein, when the component holder is in an original or retracted
position, a portion of each of the cap body, the component holder,
and the cover is adapted to come into contact with the dispensable
component, and wherein, when the cap is arranged on the container
and the component holder is in a dispensing position, the
dispensable component can pass into the container from the space
disposed within the component holder.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The instant application is a US non-provisional Application
claiming the benefit of U.S. provisional application No.
61/677,728, filed Jul. 31, 2012, the disclosure of which is hereby
expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The invention relates to a cap, cap assembly or a dispensing
or dosing closure adapted to be installed on a container and which
can contain therein or accommodate at least one dispensable
component such as e.g., a powder or tablets. With such a cap, the
dispensable component can be kept or maintained separate from one
or more components in a container even while installed thereon.
Additionally, the cap can also be activated or placed in a
dispensing position so that the dispensable component is caused to
pass from within the cap into the container and thereby, e.g., mix
with the component(s) in the container.
[0004] 2. Discussion of Background Information
[0005] Many different styles of caps, lids and closures have been
well documented and described in the prior art. They include tamper
evident closures, caps that seal the container using a check valve
taking advantage of the squeeze action of a flexible bottle to
create the pressure differential to activate the valve, and other
devices. Also prior art concerning containers with two
compartments, separating two ingredients to be mixed before
consumption, exist; but few if any of these containers are
commercially available mostly because of complicated parts,
difficulty of filling and high manufacturing cost.
[0006] Many of these devices consist of a piercing tip or cutter
that perforates or cuts a foil seal, blister pack or membrane
releasing one component into a supplemental component, usually
tablets, granules or powders into a liquid. Minor differences,
consisting mostly of how the piercing tip is activated,
differentiate these devices. Whether piercing tips or cutters are
used to remove the seal between compartments, there is always the
danger of having fragments of foil or other residue fall into the
mixed components.
[0007] Caps have been disclosed which overcome many of the
above-noted disadvantageous. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,453
to CRONIN et al. discloses various cap embodiments which can
dispense a dispensable component into a container. FIGS. 1-5 of the
instant application show one embodiment of CRONIN (see FIGS. 8-13
of CRONIN). As can be seen in FIGS. 1-5, the cap C is installed on
a neck opening 102 of a container 100. The container 100 has a body
or wall 101 and can include a collar 103. As can be seen from
comparing FIGS. 1 and 2 with FIGS. 3 and 4, when a user desires to
dispense the dispensable component from within the cap C into the
container 100, the user need only remove the tear strip TS and move
the dome-shaped upper end of the cap C towards the container 100.
This allows the dispensable component to pass out of the cap C into
the container 100 (not shown, but see FIG. 13 of CRONIN). The
entire disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. is
hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
[0008] This invention provides a cap or cap and container that can
overcome one or more, and preferably many, of disadvantages of
prior art caps while providing a cap or cap assembly and container
that is easy to use, uses a minimum number of parts, and that is
simple to manufacture and assemble.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The invention provides for a cap comprising a cap body
mountable to a container. A main bore is disposed in the cap body.
A movable component holder comprises a lower end, an upper end, and
a space sized and configured to contain a dispensable component. At
least a first seal provides sealing between an inner surface of the
cap body and an outer surface of the component holder. The first
seal at least one of: is disposed on a generally circumferential
wall and is located axially above an annular upper wall of the cap
body, is arranged on a generally circumferential wall that can
deflect slightly radially outwardly, projects from the inner
surface of the cap body, is axially fixed to the inner surface of
the cap body, is disposed at an upper end of the main bore, is
arranged above an uppermost annular surface of the cap body, is
slidably engageable with an outer circumferential surface of the
component holder, is located adjacent an upper end of an inner
tubular section of the cap body. The cap can further include a
cover installable on the upper end of the component holder. When
the cover is installed and the component holder is in an initial or
retracted position, a portion of each of the cap body, the
component holder, and the cover is adapted to come into contact
with the dispensable component. When the cap is arranged on the
container and the component holder is arranged in a dispensing
position, the dispensable component can pass into the container
through a portion of the component holder disposed between the
lower end and a portion of the cap body.
[0010] In embodiments, the cap may further comprise a removable
strip connected to the cap body.
[0011] In embodiments, the cap may further comprise a removable
strip at least one of: is arranged between a portion of the
component holder and a surface of the cap body, has an upper end
removably connected to a portion of the component holder, has a
lower end contacting or arranged adjacent a portion of the cap
body, and is integrally formed with the component holder,
[0012] In embodiments, the cover is at least one of: non-removably
installed on the upper end of the component holder, arranged to
close off an opening in the upper end which allows the dispensable
component to pass into the space, and generally dome-shaped.
[0013] In embodiments, the cap may further comprise at least one of
a second seal arranged in an area of the lower end of the component
holder and being in a sealing position when the component holder is
in the initial or retracted position, a second seal having a
sealing engagement diameter that is smaller than a sealing
engagement diameter of the first seal, a second seal axially spaced
from the first seal by an axial distance that is greater than a
maximum allowable axial movement of the component holder, a second
seal axially spaced from the first seal by an axial distance that
is greater than an axial distance between a locking projection
arranged on the component holder and an annular shoulder arranged
on the cap body, a second seal axially spaced from the first seal
and being arranged on a generally circumferential wall disposed
axially below a bottom wall of the component holder, and a second
seal comprising a primary seal preventing the dispensable component
from passing out of the space into the container and the first seal
being a sliding seal.
[0014] In embodiments, the first and second seals may provide
sealing when the component holder is in the initial or retracted
position and only the first seal provides sealing when the
component holder is in the dispensing position.
[0015] In embodiments, the cap may further comprise a locking
arrangement structured and arranged to lock the component holder in
the dispensing position.
[0016] In embodiments, the locking arrangement may comprise a
locking projection arranged on the component holder and a locking
shoulder arranged on the cap body.
[0017] In embodiments, the locking arrangement may comprise a
circumferential locking projection arranged on the component holder
and an annular locking shoulder arranged on the cap body.
[0018] In embodiments, the locking arrangement may comprise an
axially movable projection arranged on the component holder and an
axially fixed annular shoulder arranged on the cap body.
[0019] In embodiments, the component holder may further comprise an
integrally formed removable strip.
[0020] In embodiments, at least one of: the cap body is a one-piece
member and the cover is a one-piece member and the cap body has an
outer portion and a concentrically arranged inner portion and an
axial length of the outer portion is shorter than an axial length
of the inner portion.
[0021] In embodiments, the cap may further comprise a removable
strip that at least one of: prevents movement of the component
holder from the initial or retracted position to the dispending
position until the removable strip is removed and is a generally
cylindrical strip-shaped member having a pull-tab and being
connected with a frangible or breakable connection to the upper end
of the component holder.
[0022] In embodiments, the component holder may comprise one of a
tapered bottom, a conical shaped bottom wall and a bottom wall
having a shape configured to facilitate a flowing out of the
dispensable component when the component holder is arranged in the
dispensing position.
[0023] In embodiments, the cap may further comprise at least one
of: legs connecting a bottom wall to a main body portion of the
component holder, openings disposed between legs allowing the
dispensable component to pass out of the space, and openings and
legs axially arranged between first and second axially spaced seals
of the component holder.
[0024] In embodiments, the original or retracted position is a
releasably lockable storage position and the dispensing position is
a non-releasably lockable position.
[0025] In embodiments, the cover is at least one of structured and
arranged to receive a desiccant, press fit attached to the upper
end of the component holder, and in sealing engagement with the
upper end of the component holder.
[0026] In embodiments, in the dispensing position, the cap body,
the component holder and the cover comprise an integral unit.
[0027] In embodiments, the main bore of the cap body is defined by
a generally cylindrical inner wall, and wherein the cap body
further comprises at least one of: an outer wall spaced from and
surrounding the inner wall and having an internal thread or thread
segments arranged on an inner surface of the outer wall and a
tamper-evident ring connected to a lower end of the outer wall of
the cap body.
[0028] In embodiments, the upper end comprises one of: a center
opening sized to receive therein the cover, an outermost diameter
that is larger than a diameter of an inner wall of the cap body and
smaller than a diameter of an outer wall of the cap body, a
generally dome-shaped annular portion of the component holder, a
lower surface axially spaced above an upper surface of the cap body
when the component holder is in the initial or retracted position,
and a lower surface axially arranged adjacent an upper surface of
the cap body when the component holder is in the dispensing
position.
[0029] In embodiments, the space is at least one of: a generally
cylindrical space, axially disposed between the cover and the lower
end of the component holder, and sized and configured to contain a
predetermined amount of dispensable component and a predetermined
amount of gas or air.
[0030] In embodiments, there is provided a method of assembling the
cap of any of the types described herein, wherein the method
comprises inserting the component holder, lower end first, into the
main bore of the cap body, after the inserting, placing a measured
amount of the dispensable component into the space, and attaching
the cover to the upper end of the component holder.
[0031] In embodiments, the method may further comprise mounting the
cap onto a container until a tamper evident ring locks behind a
collar of the container.
[0032] In embodiments, the cap of the type described herein can be
used in combination with at least one of: a container, a single
wall container, and a container contains a component different from
the dispensable component.
[0033] In embodiments, the cap can include therein a dispensable
component.
[0034] In embodiments, there is provided a method of using the cap
of any of the types described herein, wherein the method comprises
applying a force to the upper end of the component holder
sufficient to cause the component holder to move from the initial
or retracted position to the dispensing position, wherein, in the
dispensing position, at least one of: substantially all of the
dispensable component passes into the container from the space,
substantially all of the dispensable component automatically passes
into the container from the space, and substantially all of the
dispensable component passes into the container from the space
under the influence of gravity.
[0035] The invention provides for a cap comprising a cap body
mountable to a container and comprising a bore. A component holder
comprises an upper portion, an internal space for accommodating a
dispensable component, a lower portion, and a bottom wall. The
lower portion is positionable inside the bore. First and second
axially spaced seals providing sealing between the component holder
and the cap body. The first seal is axially fixed to a portion of
the cap body. The second seal is movable from an initial sealing
position to a non-sealing position when the component holder is
moved to an activated position. At least one opening is arranged
between the first and second axially spaced seals. The upper
portion comprises at least a partially dome-shaped surface and an
opening allowing the dispensable component to enter into the space.
A removable tear strip at least one of: is structured and arranged
to prevent the component holder from moving downward relative to
the cap body until the tear strip is removed and provides a
compression barrier against activation of the cap. In a storage
position, a portion of each of the cap body and the component
holder is adapted to come into contact with a dispensable
component. When the cap is arranged on the container and the
component holder is moved to the activated position, the
dispensable component can pass into the container through the at
least one opening.
[0036] In embodiments, the cap may further comprise a cover sized
to close off the opening of the upper portion, wherein the internal
space is arranged between the bottom wall and the cover.
[0037] In embodiments, the internal space is a generally
cylindrical internal space.
[0038] In embodiments, at least one of: in the activated position,
the second seal is separated from a lower end of an inner wall of
the cap body and the component holder is in locking engagement with
the inner wall and in the storage position, the second seal is in
sealing engagement with a lower portion of an inner wall of the cap
body and the first seal is in sealing engagement with an outer
cylindrical surface of the component holder.
[0039] In embodiments, the cap may further comprise a cover having
a generally dome-shaped outer surface.
[0040] In embodiments, the activated position is a non-releasably
lockable activated position.
[0041] In embodiments, the cap may further comprise at least one of
struts arranged in an area of the lower end of the component holder
and being disposed between the first and second seals and the at
least one opening comprises apertures disposed between struts.
[0042] The invention provides for a cap comprising a cap body
mountable to a container and comprising an inner wall having a
bore. A movable component holder comprises a lower end, an upper
end, a space sized to contain a dispensable component, and an axial
length greater than an axial length of the cap body. First and
second axially spaced seals are arranged to provide sealing between
the component holder and the inner wall of the cap body. The first
seal is arranged on the lower region of the component holder and is
in sealing engagement with an inner surface of the inner wall of
the cap body. The second seal is arranged on an upper region the
inner wall and is in sealing engagement with an outer surface of
the component holder. A generally dome-shaped cover is in sealing
engagement with a portion of the upper end of the component holder.
When the component holder is in an original or retracted position,
a portion of each of the cap body, the component holder, and the
cover is adapted to come into contact with the dispensable
component. When the cap is arranged on the container and the
component holder is in a dispensing position, the dispensable
component can pass into the container from the space disposed
within the component holder.
[0043] In embodiments, the cap may further comprise at least one
of: a sipper arranged on the upper end of the component holder, a
nozzle or sipper coupled to the cover, a cover comprising a nozzle
or sipper portion, a combination of an outer cover and a nozzle or
sipper, and a drink through feature.
[0044] In embodiments, the cap or cap assembly may be of a standard
size such as 20 mm, 38 mm or 43 mm.
[0045] The invention also provides for a cap for carbonated
beverages comprising a cap body mountable to a container and
comprising an inner wall having a bore. A movable component holder
comprises a lower end, an upper end, a space sized to contain a
dispensable component. First and second axially spaced seal zones
arranged to provide sealing between the component holder and the
inner wall of the cap body. The first seal zone is arranged on the
lower region of the component holder and utilizing sealing
engagement with an inner surface of the inner wall of the cap body.
The second seal zone is arranged on an upper region the inner wall
and utilizing sealing engagement with an outer surface of the
component holder. A cover is in locking engagement with a portion
of the upper end of the component holder. When the component holder
is in an original or retracted position, a portion of each of the
cap body, the component holder, and the cover is adapted to come
into contact with the dispensable component. When the cap is
arranged on the container and the component holder is in a
dispensing position, the dispensable component can pass into the
container from the space disposed within the component holder.
[0046] In embodiments, one or more features of pending U.S.
application Ser. No. 13/249,987 to CRONIN et al. (attorney Docket
No. P40074) filed on Sep. 30, 2011 can be utilized with one or more
features of the invention described herein. The entire disclosure
of U.S. Ser. No. 13/249,987 to CRONIN et al. is hereby expressly
incorporated by reference.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0047] The present invention is further described in the detailed
description which follows, in reference to the noted plurality of
drawings by way of non-limiting examples of exemplary embodiments
of the present invention, in which like reference numerals
represent similar parts throughout the several views of the
drawings, and wherein:
[0048] FIGS. 1-5 show various views of a known cap and container
system in which the cap contains a component that can be dispensed
into the container and thereby mix with another component in the
container. FIGS. 1 and 2 show the cap in an original, initial or
storage position and FIGS. 3 and 4 show the cap in an activated or
dispensing position. FIG. 5 shows the cap before it is threaded
onto the container;
[0049] FIG. 6 shows an enlarged solid-shading cross-section of a
cap or cap assembly in a fully assembled state and mounted to an
upper end of a container in accordance with the invention. For
clarity purposes, the dispensable component is not shown arranged
within the component holder;
[0050] FIG. 7 shows the cap of FIG. 6 after a tear strip has been
removed to allow activation of the cap;
[0051] FIG. 8 shows the cap of FIG. 7 after it is fully moved to
the activation or dispensing position;
[0052] FIG. 9 shows assembly of the cap assembly with the component
holder being inserted into or assembled to the cap body and prior
to it being fully assembled thereto;
[0053] FIG. 10 shows the cap of FIG. 9 after assembly of the
component holder and as the cover is being inserted into or
assembled to a subassembly of the cap body and the component
holder;
[0054] FIG. 11 shows the cap of FIG. 10 in a fully assembled state
except that the dispensable component is not shown disposed therein
for purposes of illustration;
[0055] FIG. 12 shows enlarged view of an upper seal section of the
cap assembly of FIG. 11;
[0056] FIG. 13 shows enlarged view of a lower seal section of the
cap assembly of FIG. 11;
[0057] FIG. 14 shows enlarged view of an upper section of the cap
assembly of FIG. 11 and shows a sealing connection between the
cover and component holder;
[0058] FIGS. 15 and 16 respectively show top side perspective and
cross-section views of the cap assembly shown in FIG. 11;
[0059] FIGS. 17 and 18 respectively show side and side
cross-section views of the cap assembly shown in FIG. 11, but in a
disassembled state so as to show its main components
individually;
[0060] FIGS. 19-23 show top, side, perspective, cross-section and
bottom views of the cap body used in the cap shown in FIG. 11;
[0061] FIGS. 24-29 show top, side, perspective, cross-section and
bottom views of the component holder used in the cap shown in FIG.
11;
[0062] FIGS. 30-34 show top, side, perspective, cross-section and
bottom views of the cover used in the cap shown in FIG. 11;
[0063] FIGS. 35-37 show top, cross-section and perspective views of
the cap shown in FIG. 11, but with the cover removed or not yet
installed. Prior to installing the cover, the dispensable component
can be placed into the space inside the component holder;
[0064] FIGS. 38-40 show top, cross-section and perspective views of
the cap shown in FIG. 11 in a fully installed state and mounted to
an upper end of a container, but without the dispensable
component;
[0065] FIGS. 41-43 show top, cross-section and perspective views of
the cap shown in FIGS. 23-40, but with the tear strip removed
thereby exposing an annular space which will allow for axial
movement of the component holder relative to the cap body when the
cap is placed in the activated or dispensing position;
[0066] FIGS. 44-46 show top, cross-section and perspective views of
the cap shown in FIGS. 41-43 after it has been placed in the
activated or dispensing position;
[0067] FIGS. 47 and 48 show side and cross-section views of the cap
assembly in accordance with the invention and containing therein a
dispensable component (shown in cross-hatching in FIG. 48);
[0068] FIG. 49 shows a perspective view of a cap or cap assembly in
a fully assembled state in accordance with another non-limiting
embodiment of the invention;
[0069] FIG. 50 shows the cap of FIG. 49 after a tear strip has been
removed to allow activation of the cap;
[0070] FIG. 51 shows the cap of FIG. 50 after it is fully moved to
the activation or dispensing position;
[0071] FIG. 52 shows a side view of the cap shown in FIG. 49
mounted to an upper end of a container in accordance with the
invention;
[0072] FIG. 53 shows the cap of FIG. 52 after a tear strip has been
removed to allow activation of the cap;
[0073] FIG. 54 shows the cap of FIG. 53 after it is fully moved to
the activation or dispensing position;
[0074] FIG. 55 shows a top view of a scaled down version of the cap
shown in FIG. 52 and FIG. 56 shows an enlarged cross-section of the
cap of FIG. 55. For clarity purposes, the dispensable component is
not shown arranged within the component holder;
[0075] FIG. 57 shows a top view of a scaled down version of the cap
shown in FIG. 53 and FIG. 58 shows an enlarged cross-section of the
cap of FIG. 57. For clarity purposes, the dispensable component is
not shown arranged within the component holder;
[0076] FIG. 59 shows a top view of a scaled down version of the cap
shown in FIG. 54 and FIG. 60 shows an enlarged cross-section of the
cap of FIG. 59. For clarity purposes, the dispensable component is
not shown arranged within the component holder;
[0077] FIGS. 61-63 show top, cross-section and perspective views of
the cap shown in FIG. 49, but with the cover removed or not yet
installed. Prior to installing the cover, the dispensable component
can be placed into the space inside the component holder;
[0078] FIGS. 64-68 show top, side, perspective, cross-section and
bottom views of the cap body used in the cap shown in FIG. 49;
[0079] FIGS. 69-74 show top, side, perspective, cross-section and
bottom views of the component holder used in the cap shown in FIG.
49;
[0080] FIGS. 75-79 show top, side, perspective, cross-section and
bottom views of the cover used in the cap shown in FIG. 49;
[0081] FIG. 80 shows an enlarged cross-section view of the cap
shown in FIG. 49 in a fully installed state and mounted to an upper
end of a container, but without the dispensable component;
[0082] FIG. 81 shows enlarged view of a lower or primary seal
section of the cap assembly of FIG. 80;
[0083] FIG. 82 shows enlarged view of an upper or cover seal
section of the cap assembly of FIG. 80;
[0084] FIG. 83 shows enlarged view of a middle or sliding seal
section of the cap assembly of FIG. 80; and
[0085] FIGS. 84 and 85 show side and cross-section views of the cap
assembly of FIG. 49 and containing therein a dispensable component
(shown in cross-hatching in FIG. 85).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0086] With reference to FIGS. 6-46, there is shown a first
non-limiting embodiment of a cap or cap assembly 1. As can be seen
in FIG. 6, in embodiments, the cap 1 can include three main
components, i.e., a cap body 10, a component holder 30, and a cover
50. The component holder can have an integrally formed and
removable tear strip 60. FIGS. 6 and 7 respectively show installed
and removed positions of the tear strip 60. The cap body 10 is
installable or mountable to a container such a container 100 shown
in FIGS. 1-4, and specifically to an upper end 103 of a container
100 as shown in FIG. 6. Of course, containers of other types, sizes
and shapes can be used with the cap 1 in accordance with the
invention.
[0087] The cap body 10 can also include a tamper evident (T/E) ring
13 below the thread, as will be described in detail below. A T/E
ring, however, need not be utilized. Furthermore, other tamper
evident devices can also be utilized such as, e.g., a shrink
band/sleeve.
[0088] In one non-limiting advantageous aspect of the invention, an
upper seal of the type shown in FIG. 12 is utilized, as will be
described in detail below. The seal should maintain sealing not
only in the initial (see FIG. 6) and activated position (see FIG.
8), but also throughout the movement of the component holder 30 in
relation to the cap body 10 so that a seal or sealing is maintained
even if the component holder 30 is not fully activated. To provide
such sealing, an interference fit can be maintained between the
seal of the cap body 10 and the wall of the component holder 30
shown in FIG. 12. Such sealing can be ensured and/or maintained by
controlling the wall thickness, material or material properties,
and/or wall length of the wall containing the seal. Such sealing
should also be able to resist the pressure in the container (and
prevent leaking of the container contents past this seal) when the
component holder 30 is activated or while it is moved to the
activated position.
[0089] Another advantageous aspect of the invention relates to the
utilization of a lower seal of the type shown in FIG. 13, as will
be described in detail below. FIG. 13 shows a seal bead of the cap
body 10 located below a seal bead of the component holder 30. This
former bead can function to keep the component holder 30 from
moving/sliding downward relative to the cap body 10 after the tear
strip 60 of the component holder 30 is removed and before a
downward force is applied to the component holder 30.
[0090] Additionally, as is the case with the cap C shown in FIG. 5,
the cap 1 of FIG. 6 is sized and configured to contained therein
one or more dispensable components (in a manner similar to that
shown in FIG. 11 of U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN, the
disclosure of which is incorporated by reference). In embodiments,
the dispensable component(s) can be of any type that can be stored
in a cap of the type disclosed herein. By way of non-limiting
example, the dispensable component(s) can be of any type disclosed
U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN, the disclosure of which is
incorporated by reference. Moreover, a container, e.g., container
100, usable with the cap 1 can include any substance(s) and/or
component(s) that can be stored in a container of the type
disclosed herein. By way of non-limiting example, the substance(s)
and/or component(s) can be of any type disclosed U.S. Pat. No.
7,503,453 to CRONIN, the disclosure of which is incorporated by
reference. Non-limiting examples of herein discussed dispensable
component(s) as well as the substance(s) and/or component(s) that
can be stored in a container are described below.
[0091] The dispensable component(s) can advantageously be stored in
the cap 1 until it is desired that it/they be dispensed into the
container. Furthermore, the cap 1 in accordance with the invention
can be almost fully assembled (and optionally even installed onto a
container) before it receives therein the dispensable component(s).
That is, the cover 50 can be installed on the cap 1 either after
the dispensable component(s) is placed within the cap 1 and/or
after the sub-assembled cap 1 is installed on a container.
[0092] With reference to FIGS. 11, 15 and 16, it can be seen that
the cap 1 can be assembled into a single or self-contained unit.
The unit is essentially complete once the dispensable component(s)
is placed inside the cap 1 and the cover 50 is installed thereon.
Moreover, the cap 1 shown in FIGS. 11, 15 and 16 can be handled in
a manner which has one or more of the following advantageous:
first, it can be packaged as a unit; second, it can be manipulated
(e.g., rotated, shaken, turned up-side-down, etc.,) in the form
shown without concern that the dispensable component(s) (not shown
in FIGS. 11, 15 and 16) will spill out of the cap 1; third, the cap
1 seals in the dispensable component(s) so that it is not
substantially contaminated with any outside substance(s); fourth,
the cap 1 ensures that the dispensable component(s) remain
separated from any substance or component in a container (e.g.,
container 100 shown in FIG. 1) until it is activated; fifth, the
cap 1 can include a mechanism that prevents inadvertent or
accidental activation, i.e., it can include a mechanical device
which prevents accidental dispensing of the dispensable
component(s), e.g., a tear strip 60; sixth, the cap 1 can include a
mechanism that can provide an audible signal to a user indicating
that the cap 1 is locked or has reached a locked position when in
an activated position; seventh, the cap 1 can require two specific
or distinct steps to cause activation of the cap 1, i.e., first a
user must remove a mechanical device, e.g., a tear strip 60 and
then the user must apply a force sufficient to activate the cap 1,
e.g., move component holder 30 from the position shown in FIG. 7 to
the position shown in FIG. 8 ; eighth, by forming a component
holder 30 and a tear strip 60 into an integral unit, the resulting
cap 1 can be formed of only three main components which can each be
one-piece synthetic resin members. This may reduce manufacturing
and/or assembly costs; ninth, the cap 1 can be configured such that
a portion of each main component 10, 30 and 50 is adapted to come
into contact with the dispensable component(s), e.g., an inside
surface 53 (see FIG. 18) of the cover 50, the portions 33, 34 and
40 (see FIGS. 24-29) of the component holder 30, and portions of an
inner circumferential surface of the inner wall 17 (see FIG. 22);
tenth, the space MS within the cap 1 sized and configured to
accommodate, store, retain or receive therein the dispensable
component(s) (see e.g., FIG. 16) can be sufficient to accommodate
any desired amount of each dispensable component(s) and also
optionally include an air, gas or empty space; and eleventh, the
cap 1 can be sized and configured so that the dispensable
component(s) are substantially automatically dispensed into the
container such as can occur when the container is substantially
vertically arranged. Such automatic dispensing can occur based on
one, more than one, or a combination of the following: the force of
gravity acting on the dispensable component(s); openings 35 and
legs 34 (see FIGS. 24-29) of certain number (e.g., four), size and
configuration so as to reduce frictional forces and thereby allow
the dispensable component(s) to flow out of the space MS and into
the container more easily or freely or with less friction; a
transfer of some of the kinetic energy and/or momentum resulting
from the force causing activation of the cap 1 to the dispensable
component(s) so that it can be used to facilitate movement of the
dispensable component(s) from the space MS into the container.
Other non-limiting advantages or benefits will also be apparent
from a discussion of the invention which follows.
[0093] With reference to FIGS. 17 and 18, it can be seen how the
cap 1 can be assembled axially into a single or self-contained
unit. With the cap body 10 positioned below or otherwise axially
aligned with the component holder 30, the lower portion 31 can be
inserted into the main bore or opening 11 of the cap body 10. The
component holder 10 is fully or substantially inserted or assembled
into the cap body 10 when the lower end 64 of the tear strip 60 is
arranged adjacent to or contacts surface 22 of the cap body 10 and
also when lower sealing projection 36 is seated in the sealing area
arranged above the sealing projection 19 of the cap body 10 and
also when shoulder 37 is arranged just below the shoulder 21 of the
cap body 10. Thereafter, a dispensable component(s) is inserted via
the opening 42 arranged at an upper end of the component holder 30
and placed in the space MS. Next, the cover 50 is axially aligned
over the opening 42 and inserted therein until the sealing
projection 56 sealingly engages with the sealing area disposed
below sealing projection 43 and the annular surface 55 extends into
the space MS until the flange 57 contacts or abuts the annular
surface 47 of the wall 40. In embodiments, the configuration of the
component holder 30 and cap body 10 is such that once assembled or
connected to one another as just described (see also FIG. 11), they
cannot be disassembled without causing damage to one or more
portions of these components. Similarly, in embodiments, the
configuration of the component holder 30 and cover 50 is such that
once assembled or connected to one another as just described (see
also FIG. 11), and after a dispensable component(s) is placed into
space MS, they cannot be disassembled without causing damage to one
or more portions of these components. In one or both cases, these
connections can be said to be non-removable and/or permanent.
Moreover, in embodiments, the connection of the component holder 30
and the cover 50 can be reversed such that the cover 50 can include
a recess and the component holder 30 can include a projection
engaging therewith. Other connections can also be utilized such as
adhesive bonding, ultrasonic welding, etc. Still further, in
embodiments, the sealing engagement between the component holder 30
and the cap body 10 can be configured than that shown in FIGS. 12
and 13 as will be described further on. Moreover, within the
context of the invention, different sealing engagements (other than
sealing projections and recesses) as well as more than two sealing
projections or recesses can be utilized to provide sealing
engagement between the component holder 30 and the cap body
10--provided the sealing engagement allows the cap 1 to store the
dispensable component(s) and to dispense the same at a desired
point in time as described above.
[0094] Referring now to FIGS. 19-23, it can be seen how the cap
body 10 can be embodied. In embodiments, the cap body 10 is a
one-piece integrally formed member having two main parts or
sections. One part is main cap portion 12 and another part is the
tamper evident ring 13. The tamper evident ring 13 can be of any
type known, but is preferably similar to that disclosed in U.S.
Pat. No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. As is the case with known
tamper evident rings, the tamper evident ring 13 has an internal
thread and is connected via a frangible connection or breakable
connection zone 14 to the main cap body 12. As regards the main cap
portion 12, this member can include internal threads or thread
segments 15 which can be of any type known, but is preferably
similar to that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN et
al. These internal threads 15 are arranged on an inner
circumferential surface of an outer wall 16 whose bottom annular
edge is connected via connection 14 to the tamper evident ring 13.
An inner wall 17 is arranged generally concentrically within the
outer wall 16. The main opening 11 which receives therein the
component holder 30 is defined by the inner wall 17. A downward
projecting and axially shorter sealing wall 18 is arranged
generally concentrically between the inner wall 17 and the outer
wall 16. The size, shape and configuration of the sealing wall 18
can be of any type known, but is preferably similar to that
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. A
circumferential lower seal or sealing projection 19 is arranged on
a lower end of the inner wall 17 and is axially spaced from a
shoulder 21. As discussed above and clearly shown in FIG. 13, the
sealing projection 19 is sized, shaped and configured to almost
sealingly engage with the lower sealing projection 36 of the
component holder 30. The shoulder 21 functions as a locking
mechanism and locks to the projection(s) 38 when the cap 1 is in
the dispensing position (see FIG. 8). In embodiments, the locking
shoulder 21 is arranged axially closer to the projection 19 than to
the sealing projection 20 as shown in FIG. 22. The sealing
projection 20 is sized, shaped and configured to frictionally and
sealing engage (see FIG. 12) with an outer generally cylindrical
surface of the wall 40 of the component holder 30 when the
component holder 30 is in the initial position shown in FIG. 7,
when it is moved to the dispensing position shown in FIG. 8, and
when locked in the dispensing position. In embodiments, when the
locking engagement occurs between projection(s) 38 and shoulder 21
(see FIG. 8), this engagement produces a tactile and/or an audible
signal so that a user will be aware that cap 1 has become locked in
the dispensing position. Such engagement also ensures that the
component holder 30 cannot be moved any further--thereby serving a
device for limiting axial movement of the component holder 30. As
should be apparent, at least two axially spaced seals 20 and 36 are
sized, shaped and configured to provide sealing engagement between
the component holder 30 and the cap body 10. The cap body 10 also
can include an upper annular surface 22 which, in embodiments, is
axially spaced from or slightly below an uppermost surface of the
cap body 10. The surface 22 extends to a shoulder 23 whose size,
shape and configuration is larger than an outer diameter of bottom
end 64 of the tear strip 60. In this way, the end 64 can be
positioned in contact with or adjacent to the surface 22 when the
cap 1 is arranged in the storage position (see FIG. 11). An axial
length of a main portion of the cap body 10 is defined by an axial
distance between the lower end 24 and the upper end 25 of the cap
body 10. An overall axial length of the cap body 10 is defined by
the bottom end 24 and an upper annular end 26 of the inner wall 17.
In embodiments, both lengths are greater than an axial length of
the cover 50 but less than that of the component holder 30.
[0095] Referring now to FIGS. 24-29, it can be seen how the
component holder 30 can be embodied. In embodiments, the component
holder 30 is a one-piece integrally formed member which, after
being formed with a tear strip 60, has two main parts. One part
includes all of the features shown in FIGS. 24-29--excluding the
tear strip 60 and another part is the tear strip 60 shown attached
to this member in FIGS. 24-29 and removed therefrom in FIG. 7. The
tear strip 60 can be of any type known such as one that is similar
to that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. In
embodiments, however, it has the configuration shown in FIGS.
24-29, i.e., the tear strip 60 can include a main strip portion 61,
an upper end 62 that is connected to the annular surface 45 via a
breakable or frangible connection 63, a lower end 64 configured to
contact, abut or be arranged adjacent to the surface 22 when the
cap 1 is in the storage position (see FIGS. 6 and 11), and a pull
tab 65 which can be gripped by a user and which allows the user to
remove the tear strip 60 and thereby break the frangible connection
63.
[0096] Referring again to FIGS. 24-29, it can be seen that the
component holder 30 can include a lower portion or region 31 that
is sized, shaped and configured to pass into the main opening 11 of
the cap body 10. The component holder 30 also can include a lower
end 32 and a bottom wall 33. The bottom wall 33 can be of a known
type such as one that is similar to that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. In embodiments, however, it has the
configuration shown in FIGS. 24-29, i.e., it has a generally
tapered configuration so as to facilitate dispensing of the
dispensable component under the force of gravity. The component
holder 30 also can include struts or legs 34, e.g., four, which can
be substantially equally spaced, which serve to define
substantially equally sized openings 35 and to connect the bottom
wall 33 to the cylindrical wall 40. The struts 34 can be of a known
type such as ones that are similar to that disclosed in U.S. Pat.
No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. In embodiments, however, they have
the configuration shown in FIGS. 24-29, i.e., they have a generally
tapered configuration so as to facilitate dispensing of the
dispensable component under the force of gravity. The component
holder 30 also can include a circumferential lower sealing
projection 36 arranged at a lower end of the component holder 30.
As discussed above, the sealing projection 36 is sized, shaped and
configured to sealingly engage with a generally cylindrical area of
the cap body 10 arranged between the shoulder 21 and projection 19.
The component holder 30 further can include an annular shoulder 37
as well as one or more locking projections 38. As discussed above,
the one or more locking projections 38 are sized, shaped and
configured to lockingly engage with the shoulder 21 of the cap body
10 in the dispensing position. However, they are also spaced from
the inner wall 17 when in the initial or storage position (see
FIGS. 6 and 11). The component holder 30 also can include an inner
space MS sized, shaped and configured to receive therein the
dispensable component(s) and optionally also air, gas or empty
space. This space MS extends axially from the bottom wall 33 to the
projection 43 and can also extend into an axial space within the
cover 50, when installed. The component holder 30 also can include
upper portion or region 39 which is sized, shaped or configured to
project or extend above the main bore 11 of the cap body 10 in the
storage position. The generally cylindrical wall 40 extends nearly
to an upper end 41 of the component holder 30. An inlet opening 42
is arranged in an area of the upper end 41 and is sized, shaped and
configured to allow for the dispensable component(s) to pass into
the space MS (prior to installation of the cover 50) and can
receive therein and be closed-off by the cover 50. A
circumferential sealing/locking projection 43 is arranged in the
inlet opening 42 and sized, shaped and configured to sealingly and
lockingly engage with the circumferential sealing projection 56 of
the cover 50. A dome-shaped outer portion 44 is also arranged in an
area of the upper end 41 of the component holder 30. In
embodiments, the portion 44 can be of an alternative shape such as
e.g., flat or planar. A lower annular surface 45 is arranged at a
lower end of the dome-shaped outer portion 44 and is sized, shaped
or configured to contact, abut or be located adjacent to the
surface 22 when the cap 1 is moved to the dispensing position (see
FIGS. 7 and 8). This serves as an alternative or redundant
mechanism to limit axial movement of the component holder 30
relative to the cap body 10. An annular space 46 is produced in the
component holder 30 when the tear strip 60 is removed (see FIGS.
41-43).
[0097] Referring now to FIGS. 30-34, it can be seen that the cover
50 can be a one-piece integrally formed member that can include a
generally dome-shaped wall 51 having a dome-shaped outer surface 52
as well as a dome-shaped inner surface 53 (see FIG. 33). In
embodiments, the cover 50 can be of an alternative shape such as,
e.g., inwardly curved, flat or planar. The cover 50 also can
include a circumferential surface 54, a circumferential projection
56, and an annular end surface 55, as well as an annular shoulder
57. An inner space 58 is defined within the cover 50 and can, among
other things, receive therein an amount of the dispensable
component, provide an air or gas space, and receive or house a
desiccant material.
[0098] With reference to FIGS. 10, 14 and 35-40, there can be seen
one non-limiting way in which the cap 1 can be preassembled prior
to receiving therein a dispensable component(s). Prior to full
assembly (and optionally even after being installed onto a
container), the cap 1 can receive therein the dispensable
component(s) via the opening 42. Once a desired amount of
dispensable component(s) is placed in the space MS, the cover 50
can be installed on the cap 1 so that the cap 50 assumes the
configuration shown in FIG. 38 (the dispensable component(s) is not
shown in FIG. 40 but its arrangement can be like that shown in FIG.
48). At this point, the cap 1 can be installed on an upper end of a
container as shown in FIGS. 39 and 40.
[0099] With reference to FIGS. 41-43, there can be seen one
non-limiting way in which the cap 1 can be used to dispense a
dispensable component(s)--after it is installed on an upper end of
a container in a manner similar to that shown in FIGS. 42 and 43 or
FIG. 46. First, a user removes the tear strip 60 so that the cap 1
assumes the configuration shown in FIGS. 41-43 or FIG. 7. Doing so
creates the space 46 which is defined as being axially disposed
between the surface 45 and the surface 22. Then, the user moves the
component holder 30 to the dispensing position shown in FIGS. 44-46
or FIG. 8 which results in the surface 45 abutting or nearly
abutting the surface 22 and generally simultaneously results in the
locking projections 38 becoming locked with the shoulder 21. The
movement of the component holder 30 from the position shown in
FIGS. 7 and 41-43 to that shown in FIGS. 8 and 44-46 can occur by a
user applying a downward pushing force against the cover 50 or the
dome-shaped surface 44, or both, using the palm of one hand while
either holding the container in the other hand or steadying it on a
static surface such as a table top. In the dispensing position, the
dispensable component(s) (not shown) stored in the cap 1 is/are
allowed to pass out of the openings 35 and into the container in a
manner similar to that described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No.
7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. mentioned above. This dispensing out of
the dispensable component can occur as a result of the movement and
sudden stopping of the component holder 30 and/or under the action
of gravity, or both, and is facilitated by, among other things,
appropriately shaped and sized bottom wall 33, legs 34 and openings
35. As is apparent from FIGS. 8 and 46, a significant portion of
the openings 35 are arranged below the lower end of the inner wall
17 located directly beneath the projection 19. The dispensable
component can thus be said to exit the cap 1 and enter into the
container from this area or zone located between this lower end and
the bottom wall 33.
[0100] With reference to FIGS. 49-85, there is shown a second
non-limiting embodiment of a cap or cap assembly 1'. Unless
otherwise specified or apparent, each reference number that
corresponds to a comparable feature of the previous embodiment
utilizes the same reference number but designated with "prime". For
example, the reference number for a cap body is designed 10' in
this embodiment whereas the cap body of the previous embodiment was
designed with reference 10. As can be seen in FIGS. 49-60, in
embodiments, the cap 1' can include three main components, i.e., a
cap body 10', a component holder 30', and a cover 50'. The
component holder 30' can have an integrally formed and removable
tear strip 60'. FIGS. 49 and 50 respectively show installed and
removed positions of the tear strip 60'. The cap body 10' is
installable or mountable to a container such a container 100 shown
in FIGS. 1-4, and specifically to an upper end 103' of a container
as shown in FIGS. 52-60. Of course, containers of other types,
sizes and shapes can be used with the cap 1 in accordance with the
invention. Additionally, it should be noted that the cap or cap
assembly 1' is more adaptable for use with containers utilizing
carbonated beverages and utilizes more robust sealing features as
will be described later on.
[0101] The cap body 10' can also include a tamper evident (T/E)
ring 13' below the thread, as was utilized in the previous
embodiment. A T/E ring, however, need not be utilized. Furthermore,
other tamper evident devices can also be utilized such as, e.g., a
shrink band/sleeve.
[0102] With reference to FIGS. 52-60, there can be seen one
non-limiting way in which the cap 1' can be used to dispense a
dispensable component(s)--after it is installed on an upper end
103' of a container. First, a user removes the tear strip 60' so
that the cap 1' assumes the configuration shown in FIGS. 53 and 58.
Doing so creates the space 46' which is defined as being axially
disposed between the surface 45' and the surface 22'. Then, the
user moves the component holder 30' to the dispensing position
shown in FIGS. 54 and 60 which results in the surface 45' abutting
or nearly abutting the surface 22' and generally simultaneously
results in the locking projections 38' becoming locked with the
shoulder 21'. The movement of the component holder 30' from the
position shown in FIGS. 50 and 53 to that shown in FIGS. 51 and 54
can occur by a user applying a downward pushing force against the
cover 50' or the dome-shaped surface 44', or both, using the palm
of one hand while either holding the container in the other hand or
steadying it on a static surface such as a table top. In the
dispensing position, the dispensable component(s) (not shown)
stored in the cap 1' is/are allowed to pass out of the openings 35'
and into the container in a manner similar to that described in,
for example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. mentioned
above. This dispensing out of the dispensable component can occur
as a result of the movement and sudden stopping of the component
holder 30' and/or under the action of gravity, or both, and is
facilitated by, among other things, appropriately shaped and sized
bottom wall 33', legs 34' and openings 35'. As is apparent from
FIG. 60, a significant portion of the openings 35' are arranged
below the lower end of the inner wall 17' located directly beneath
the sealing zone PSZ. The dispensable component can thus be said to
exit the cap 1' and enter into the container from this area or zone
located between this lower end of wall 17' and the bottom wall
33'.
[0103] Referring now to FIGS. 64-68, it can be seen how the cap
body 10' can be embodied. In embodiments, the cap body 10' is a
one-piece integrally formed member having two main parts or
sections. One part is main cap portion 12' and another part is the
tamper evident ring 13'. The tamper evident ring 13' can be of any
type known, but is preferably similar to that disclosed in U.S.
Pat. No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. As is the case with known
tamper evident rings, the tamper evident ring 13' has an internal
thread and is connected via a frangible connection or breakable
connection zone 14' to the main cap body 12'. As regards the main
cap portion 12', this member can include internal threads or thread
segments 15' which can be of any type known, but is preferably
similar to that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN et
al. These internal threads 15' are arranged on an inner
circumferential surface of an outer wall 16' whose bottom annular
edge is connected via connection 14' to the tamper evident ring
13'. An inner wall 17' is arranged generally concentrically within
the outer wall 16'. The main opening 11' which receives therein the
component holder 30' is defined by the inner wall 17'. A downward
projecting and axially shorter sealing wall 18' is arranged
generally concentrically between the inner wall 17' and the outer
wall 16'. The size, shape and configuration of the sealing wall 18'
can be of any type known, but is preferably similar to that
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. Instead of a
circumferential lower seal or sealing projection (i.e., projection
19) utilizes in the previous embodiment, a generally
circumferential sealing zone PSZ is arranged on a lower end of the
inner wall 17' and is axially spaced from a shoulder 21'. As
discussed above and clearly shown in FIG. 81, the sealing zone PSZ
is sized, shaped and configured to sealingly frictionally engage
with the lower sealing projection 36' of the component holder 30'.
The shoulder 21' functions as a locking mechanism and locks to the
projection(s) 38' when the cap 1' is in the dispensing position
(see FIG. 60). In embodiments, the locking shoulder 21' is arranged
axially closer to the zone PSZ than to the sealing projection 20'
as shown in FIG. 67. The sealing projection 20' is generally
axially longer than that of the previous embodiment and is sized,
shaped and configured to frictionally and sealing engage (see FIG.
83) with an outer generally cylindrical surface of the wall 40' of
the component holder 30' when the component holder 30' is in the
initial position shown in FIG. 58, when it is moved to the
dispensing position shown in FIG. 60, and when locked in the
dispensing position. In embodiments, when the locking engagement
occurs between projection(s) 38' and shoulder 21' (see FIG. 60),
this engagement produces a tactile and/or an audible signal so that
a user will be aware that cap 1' has become locked in the
dispensing position. Such engagement also ensures that the
component holder 30' cannot be moved any further--thereby serving a
device for limiting axial movement of the component holder 30'. As
should be apparent, at least two axially spaces seals 20' and 36'
are sized, shaped and configured to provide sealingly engage
between the component holder 30' and the cap body 10'. The cap body
10' also can include an upper annular surface 22' which, in
embodiments, is axially spaced from or slightly below an uppermost
surface 25' of the cap body 10'. The surface 22' extends to a
shoulder 23' whose size, shape and configuration is larger than an
outer diameter of bottom end 64' of the treat strip 60'. In this
way, the end 64' can be positioned in contact with or adjacent to
the surface 22' when the cap 1' is arranged in the storage position
(see FIG. 85). An axial length of a main portion of the cap body
10' is defined by an axial distance between the lower end 24' and
the upper end 25' of the cap body 10'. An overall axial length of
the cap body 10' is defined by the bottom end 24' and an upper
annular end 26' of the inner wall 17'. In embodiments, both lengths
are greater than an axial length of the cover 50' but less than
that of the component holder 30'.
[0104] Referring now to FIGS. 69-74, it can be seen how the
component holder 30' can be embodied. In embodiments, the component
holder 30' is a one-piece integrally formed member which, after
being formed with a tear strip 60', has two main parts. One part
includes all of the features shown in FIGS. 69-74--excluding the
tear strip 60' and another part is the tear strip 60' shown
attached to this member in FIGS. 69-74 and removed therefrom in
FIGS. 50, 53 and 58. The tear strip 60' can be of any type known
such as one that is similar to that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. In embodiments, however, it has the
configuration shown in FIGS. 69-74, i.e., the tear strip 60' can
include a main strip portion 61', an upper end 62' that is
connected to the annular surface 45' via a breakable or frangible
connection 63', a lower end 64' configured to contact, abut or be
arranged adjacent to the surface 22' when the cap 1' is in the
storage position (see FIGS. 80 and 85), and a pull tab 65' which
can be gripped by a user and which allows the user to remove the
tear strip 60' and thereby break the frangible connection 63'.
[0105] Referring again to FIGS. 69-74, it can be seen that the
component holder 30' can includes a lower portion or region 31'
that is sized, shaped and configured to extend or pass into the
main opening 11' of the cap body 10'. The component holder 30' also
can include a lower end 32' and a bottom wall 33'. The bottom wall
33' can be of any type such as one that is similar to that
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. In
embodiments, however, it has the configuration shown in FIGS.
69-74, i.e., it has a generally tapered configuration so as to
facilitate dispensing of the dispensable component under the force
of gravity. The component holder 30' also can include struts or
legs 34', e.g., four, which can be substantially equally spaced,
which serve to define substantially equally sized openings 35' and
to connect the bottom wall 33' to the cylindrical wall 40'. The
struts 34' can be of any type such as ones that are similar to that
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. In
embodiments, however, they have the configuration shown in FIGS.
69-74, i.e., they have a generally tapered configuration so as to
facilitate dispensing of the dispensable component under the force
of gravity. The component holder 30' also can include a
circumferential lower sealing section 36' arranged at a lower end
of the component holder 30'. As discussed above, the sealing
section 36' can be generally cylindrical and is sized, shaped and
configured to sealingly engage with a generally cylindrical area
PSZ of the cap body 10' arranged beneath the shoulder 21' (see FIG.
81). The component holder 30' further can include an annular
shoulder 37' as well as one or more locking projections 38'. Like
the previous embodiment, the shoulder 37' is configured to abut or
substantially abut the shoulder 21' when the cap 1' is in the
original or storage position (see FIG. 81). As discussed above, the
one or more locking projections 38' are sized, shaped and
configured to lockingly engage with the shoulder 21' of the cap
body 10' in the dispensing position. However, they are also spaced
from the inner wall 17' when in the initial or storage position
(see e.g., FIG. 56). The component holder 30' also can include an
inner space MS' sized, shaped and configured to receive therein the
dispensable component(s) and optionally also air, gas or empty
space. This space MS' extends axially from the bottom wall 33' to
the generally circumferential sealing surface 48' and can also
extend into an axial space within the cover 50', when installed.
The component holder 30' also can include upper portion or region
39' which is sized, shaped or configured to project or extend above
the main bore 11' of the cap body 10' in the storage position. The
generally cylindrical wall 40' extends nearly to an upper end 41'
of the component holder 30'. An inlet opening 42' is arranged in an
area of the upper end 41' and is sized, shaped and configured to
allow for the dispensable component(s) to pass into the space MS'
(prior to installation of the cover 50') and can receive therein
and be closed-off by the cover 50'. Plural equally spaces
circumferential locking projection 43' are arranged in or above an
area of the inlet opening 42' and are sized, shaped and configured
to lockingly engage with the circumferential recess 54' and
projection 56' of the cover 50' (see FIG. 82). A dome-shaped outer
portion 44' is also arranged in an area of the upper end 41' of the
component holder 30'. In embodiments, the portion 44' can be of an
alternative shape such as e.g., flat or planar. A lower annular
surface 45' is arranged at a lower end of the dome-shaped outer
portion 44' and is sized, shaped or configured to contact, abut or
be located adjacent to the surface 22' when the cap 1' is moved to
the dispensing position. This serves as an alternative or redundant
mechanism to limit axial movement of the component holder 30'
relative to the cap body 10'. An annular space 46' is produced in
the component holder 30' when the tear strip 60' is removed.
[0106] Referring now to FIGS. 75-79, it can be seen that the cover
50' can be a one-piece integrally formed member that can include a
generally dome-shaped wall 51' having a dome-shaped outer surface
52' as well as a dome-shaped inner surface 53' (see FIG. 79). In
embodiments, the cover 50' can be of an alternative shape such as,
e.g., inwardly curved, flat or planar. The cover 50' also can
include a circumferential recess 54', a circumferential projection
56', and an annular end surface made up of alternating projections
and recesses 55', as well as an annular shoulder 57'. A sealing
surface or zone 59' is structured and arranged to sealingly engage
with surface 48' to provide sealing even under the relatively high
pressures generated by carbonated beverages. An inner space 58' is
defined within the cover 50' and can, among other things, receive
therein an amount of the dispensable component, provide an air or
gas space, and receive or house a desiccant material.
[0107] Although discusses above, it should be noted that an
advantageous benefit of the lower seal arrangement shown in FIG. 81
relates to the use of a lock configuration provided by the
shoulders 21' and 37' as well as a main or primary seal zone for
the cap 1' provided by sealing engagement between the surfaces 36'
and PSZ. The lock prevents and/or limits upward axial movement of
the component holder 30' in relation to the cap body 10' while the
surfaces 36' and PSZ provide sealing even under the relatively high
pressures generated by carbonated beverages.
[0108] An advantageous benefit of the interlock arrangement shown
in FIG. 82 relates to the use of locking projections 43' and 56'.
This locking arrangement is designed to be permanent and functions
as a blow-off prevention system and is also designed to maintain
the sealing provided between surfaces or. zones 48' and 59' even
under the relatively high pressures generated by carbonated
beverages.
[0109] An advantageous benefit of the middle or secondary seal
arrangement shown in FIG. 83 relates to the use of a sliding seal
configuration provided by the inwardly oriented projection 20' and
the movable generally circumferential surface 40'. This seal is
maintained regardless of the upward or downward axial movement of
the component holder 30' in relation to the cap body 10' and
provide sealing additional even under the relatively high pressures
generated by carbonated beverages.
[0110] Although not shown, the cap(s) 1, 1' described herein can
also be modified to utilize a sipper interface similar to that
disclosed in FIGS. 28-31 of pending U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 13/249,987 filed on Sep. 30, 2011 (Attorney Docket No. P40074).
The entire disclosure of this application is herein incorporated by
reference. Additionally or alternatively, it may utilize one or
more of those sipper interfaces described in, for example, U.S.
Pat. No. 7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. mentioned above.
[0111] In each of the herein disclosed embodiments, there can
optionally be provided a mechanism for holding, retaining or
storing a desicant similar to that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
7,503,453 to CRONIN et al. In embodiments, the cover 50, 50' can
include such a mechanism.
[0112] The following is an exemplary and/or non-limiting list of
substances which can constitute a dispensable component usable with
the cap of the invention: granules or tablets including Creatine,
wolfberry, calcium, guanine, arginine, Vitamins B, B12, C, D,
ibuprofen, electrolytes, niacin, folic acid, biotin, choline
bitartate, inositol, manganese, calcium, Saint John's wart,
yohimbe, chromium polynicotinate, carnitine, taurine, astragulus,
schizandra, kava kava, lemon grass, Echinacea, prolione, bee
pollen, amino acids, chitin oligomers, water soluble oral chitosan
oligomers and zinc, among others. The component may comprise
granules having different sizes and weights. For example, a first
component, a supplemental component and a third component may be
utilized. In an embodiment, the first component weighs
approximately 0.10-0.50 grams, the supplemental component weighs
approximately 0.15-0.75 grams and the third component weighs
approximately 0.20-1.0 grams. In the stored condition, the
dispensible component may be disbursed by weight/size within the
chamber. In an alternate embodiment, the first, second and third
components may be disbursed randomly throughout the chamber. It is
also to be understood that in other embodiments the chamber may
include a single component having one size and shape, two
components having two sizes and shapes or any number or combination
of components having different sizes and shapes. In a further
alternate embodiment, the component in a second chamber may be a
powder, liquid, gas, slurry or other particles.
[0113] The following is a list of materials which can be used to
form the container as well as the cap body 10, 10' the component
holder 30, 30', the cover 50, 50', and/or the tear strip 60, 60':
these components may be formed or manufactured by any known methods
in the art. For example, the container or bottle may be blow
molded. The cap components may be injection molded. One, many, most
or all parts may be made of FDA approved materials. Materials may
include Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), High Density Polyethylene
(HDPE), Polypropylene (PP), Rigid Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC),
Polyester and Co-Polyester (PET and PET-G), Styrene Acrylonitrile
(SAN), Polystyrene (PS).
EXAMPLES OF NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENTS
Example A
[0114] With reference to the Figures, in embodiments, there is
provided a cap 1, 1' comprising a cap body 10, 10' mountable to a
container 100 and a main bore disposed in the cap body 10, 10'. A
movable component holder 30, 30' comprises a lower end, an upper
end, and a space sized and configured to contain a dispensable
component. At least a first seal (see FIG. 12 or 83) provides
sealing between an inner surface of the cap body 10, 10' and an
outer surface of the component holder 30, 30'. The first seal is
disposed on a generally circumferential wall and located axially
above an annular upper wall of the cap body 10, 10'. Alternatively
or additionally, the first seal is arranged on a generally
circumferential wall that can deflect slightly radially outwardly.
Alternatively or additionally, the first seal projects from the
inner surface of the cap body 10, 10'. Alternatively or
additionally, the first seal is axially fixed to the inner surface
of the cap body 10, 10'. Alternatively or additionally, the first
seal is disposed at an upper end of the main bore 11', 11'.
Alternatively or additionally, the first seal is arranged above an
uppermost annular surface 25, 25' of the cap body 10, 10'.
Alternatively or additionally, the first seal is slidably
engageable with an outer circumferential surface 40, 40'of the
component holder 30, 30'. Alternatively or additionally, the first
seal is located adjacent an upper end of an inner tubular section
of the cap body 10, 10'. The cap assembly 1, 1' can also include a
cover 50, 50' installable on the upper end of the component holder
30, 30'. When the cover 50, 50' is installed and the component
holder 30, 30' is in an initial or retracted position (see FIGS. 47
and 48 or 84 and 85), a portion of each of the cap body 10, 10',
the component holder 30, 30', and the cover 50, 50' is adapted to
come into contact with the dispensable component. When the cap 1,
1' is arranged on the container 100 and the component holder 30,
30' is arranged in a dispensing position, the dispensable component
can pass into the container 100 through a portion 35, 35' of the
component holder 30, 30' disposed between the lower end and a
portion of the cap body 10, 10'.
[0115] It is noted that the foregoing examples have been provided
merely for the purpose of explanation and are in no way to be
construed as limiting of the present invention. While the present
invention has been described with reference to an exemplary
embodiment, it is understood that the words which have been used
herein are words of description and illustration, rather than words
of limitation. Changes may be made, within the purview of the
appended claims, as presently stated and as amended, without
departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention in its
aspects. Although the present invention has been described herein
with reference to particular means, materials and embodiments, the
present invention is not intended to be limited to the particulars
disclosed herein; rather, the present invention extends to all
functionally equivalent structures, methods and uses, such as are
within the scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *