U.S. patent application number 14/255930 was filed with the patent office on 2014-10-30 for spout with self sealing fitment assembly mountable thereto.
This patent application is currently assigned to Scholle Corporation. The applicant listed for this patent is Scholle Corporation. Invention is credited to David Bellmore, Chris Murray, Charles Thurman.
Application Number | 20140319094 14/255930 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51731989 |
Filed Date | 2014-10-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140319094 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Thurman; Charles ; et
al. |
October 30, 2014 |
Spout With Self Sealing Fitment Assembly Mountable Thereto
Abstract
A spout and self sealing fitment assembly including a spout and
a self sealing fitment. The spout and the fitment are configured to
allow for the fitment to be pressed onto the spout whereupon
corresponding threads on each matingly engage, thereby allowing for
removal of the spout and fitment by way of unscrewing. The fitment
may also be pried off the spout.
Inventors: |
Thurman; Charles;
(Northlake, IL) ; Murray; Chris; (Chicago, IL)
; Bellmore; David; (DeWitt, MI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Scholle Corporation |
Irvine |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Scholle Corporation
Irvine
CA
|
Family ID: |
51731989 |
Appl. No.: |
14/255930 |
Filed: |
April 17, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61812934 |
Apr 17, 2013 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
215/253 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 51/002 20130101;
B65D 47/0838 20130101; B65D 77/068 20130101; B65D 75/5877
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
215/253 |
International
Class: |
B65D 39/00 20060101
B65D039/00 |
Claims
1. A spout and self sealing fitment assembly comprising: a spout
having a base flange, a cylindrical upstand extending from the base
flange and terminating at a distal end, an upper flange disposed on
the cylindrical upstand spaced apart from the base flange and the
distal end, and a spout thread helically disposed on the
cylindrical upstand between the upper flange and the distal end; a
self sealing fitment assembly having a body defining an opening,
and a sealing membrane extending over the opening, the sealing
membrane having a valve positionable between a closed position and
an open position, the body further comprising: an upper annular
portion defining the opening; an inner depending annular member
extending from the upper annular portion, the inner depending
annular member having an outer surface; and an outer depending
annular member extending from the upper annular portion spaced
apart from the inner depending annular member, the outer depending
annular member having an inner surface, the inner surface and outer
surface cooperatively forming a passageway configured to receive
the cylindrical upstand of the spout, the inner surface of the
outer depending annular member having a lower portion of a first
thickness, and an upper portion of a second thickness which is
greater than the first thickness, with an inwardly directed stopper
flange defined therebetween, and a fitment thread helically
disposed on the lower portion of the inner surface, wherein the
cylindrical upstand is extended into the passageway and pressed
therein, the outer depending annular member is configured to
outwardly flex so as to allow the spout thread to be directed over
the fitment thread until the distal end of the base flange reaches
the stopper flange, whereupon, the spout thread and the fitment
thread are in a mating engagement which allows for removal of the
self sealing fitment from the spout through twisting of the spout
relative to the self sealing fitment, guided by the mating
engagement of the fitment thread and the spout thread.
2. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the spout has an upper annular
rim flange disposed at the distal end, and wherein the upper
annular rim flange extends outwardly from the cylindrical upstand,
and, wherein in operable engagement, the upper annular rim flange
engages the stopper flange, precluding further insertive movement
of the spout within the passageway.
3. The assembly of claim 2 wherein the stopper flange is spaced
apart from the upper annular portion such that a portion of the
passage way remains unobstructed between the upper annular rim
flange and the upper annular portion.
4. The assembly of claim 3 wherein the upper annular portion
further includes a grasping flange extending outwardly therefrom,
the grasping flange facilitating the prying off of the fitment from
the spout.
5. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the lower portion of the inner
surface has a height, the height of the lower portion of the inner
surface is less than a distance between the distal end of the
cylindrical upstand and the upper flange, such that the outer
depending annular member is spaced apart from the upper flange.
6. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the inner depending annular
member extends beyond the outer depending annular member.
7. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the spout thread has an upper
surface and a lower surface, the upper surface of the spout thread
has a slope that is greater than that of the lower surface, such
that the force required to pass the fitment thread over the spout
thread is greater in one direction than in an opposite
direction.
8. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the fitment thread is positioned
entirely on the lower portion of the inner surface, and is spaced
apart from the stopper flange.
9. The assembly of claim 8 wherein the spout thread is positioned
entirely between the distal end of the cylindrical upstand and the
upper flange, and spaced apart from each one.
10. A self sealing fitment assembly having a body defining an
opening, and a sealing membrane extending over the opening, the
sealing membrane having a valve positionable between a closed
position and an open position, the body further comprising: an
upper annular portion defining the opening; an inner depending
annular member extending from the upper annular portion, the inner
depending annular member having an outer surface; an outer
depending annular member extending from the upper annular portion
spaced apart from the inner depending annular member, the outer
depending annular member having an inner surface, the inner surface
and outer surface cooperatively forming a passageway configured to
receive the cylindrical upstand of the spout, the inner surface of
the outer depending annular member having a lower portion of a
first thickness, and an upper portion of a second thickness which
is greater than the first thickness, resulting in a narrowing of
the passageway, with an inwardly directed stopper flange defined
therebetween, and a fitment thread helically disposed on the lower
portion of the inner surface.
11. The fitment assembly of claim 10 wherein the fitment thread is
spaced apart from the stopper flange.
12. The fitment assembly of claim 10 wherein the upper annular
portion further includes a grasping flange extending outwardly from
the outer depending annular member, the grasping flange being
spaced apart from the stopper flange.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Pat. App. Ser.
No. 61/812,934 filed Apr. 17, 2013, entitled "Self-Sealing Bag In
Box Cap Assembly," the entire disclosure of which is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] 1. Field of the Disclosure
[0003] The disclosure relates in general to flexible packaging, and
more particularly, to a spout with a self sealing fitment assembly
mountable thereto. Such flexible packaging is used in association
with the dispensing of flowable material from a bag.
[0004] 2. Background Art
[0005] This application incorporates by reference U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/100,271 filed May 3, 2011 which is a
continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/589,368
filed Oct. 22, 2009, entitled "Self Sealing Bag in Box Cap
Assembly," which claims priority from U.S. Pat. App. Ser. No.
61/196,969, filed Oct. 22, 2008, entitled "Self Sealing Bag in Box
Cap Assembly", and, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 29/282,152
filed Jan. 13, 2011, entitled "Self Sealing Bag in Box Cap
Assembly".
[0006] Self sealing bags have become increasingly useful,
especially in the food packaging industry. One current system
utilizes a flexible bag having a spout to which a Sentry cap
available from Scholle Corporation is affixed. A separate hose is
provided which has at a first end a probe and at a second end a
connector available from Erie Plastics with a flexible membrane.
One such membrane is available from LMS of Midland, Mich. The probe
is inserted into the opening of the Sentry cap and the other end is
affixed to a distribution hose so that flowable material can be
withdrawn from the flexible bag through the Sentry Cap and to the
distribution hose. One such system is shown in FIG. 1 of the
incorporated '271 application. Several different embodiments of
such a cap are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 7,387,220 issued to Verespej
et al and assigned to Scholle Corporation and U.S. Pat. No.
7,357,277 issued to Verespej et al and assigned to Scholle
Corporation. Both of these patents are incorporated by reference
herein, in their entirety.
[0007] Among other drawbacks, such a system requires many separate
components which increase the cost of use of such a system.
Additionally, with such a system, many connections are utilized,
each of which is susceptible to failure. Further still, such
sealing membranes are prone to damage during the insertion of the
probe therein, and there are drawbacks associated with the membrane
configurations themselves.
[0008] In addition, it is often the case that the fitments are
coupled to the spout in a press fit configuration, which typically
requires the use of a special tool, or equipment to install and
remove. As a result, a user is unable to generally and easily
remove the fitment from the spout. Often, when the two are
attempted to be separated, one or both of the structures are
damaged.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0009] The disclosure is directed to a spout and self sealing
fitment assembly comprising a spout and a self sealing fitment. The
spout includes a base flange, a cylindrical upstand, an upper
flange and a spout thread. The cylindrical upstand extends from the
base flange and terminates at a distal end. The upper flange is
disposed on the cylindrical upstand spaced apart from the base
flange and the distal end. The spout thread is helically disposed
on the cylindrical upstand between the upper flange and the distal
end. The self sealing fitment assembly has a body defining an
opening, and a sealing membrane extending over the opening. The
sealing membrane has a valve positionable between a closed position
and an open position. The body further comprises an upper annular
portion, an inner depending annular member, and an outer depending
annular member. The inner depending annular member extends from the
upper annular portion and includes an outer surface. The outer
depending annular member extends from the upper annular portion
spaced apart from the inner depending annular member. The outer
depending annular member has an inner surface. The inner surface
and outer surface cooperatively forming a passageway configured to
receive the cylindrical upstand of the spout. The inner surface of
the outer depending annular member having a lower portion of a
first thickness, and an upper portion of a second thickness which
is greater than the first thickness. An inwardly directed stopper
flange is defined therebetween. A fitment thread is helically
disposed on the lower portion of the inner surface.
[0010] When the cylindrical upstand is extended into the passageway
and pressed therein, the outer depending annular member is
configured to outwardly flex so as to allow the spout thread to be
directed over the fitment thread until the distal end of the base
flange reaches the stopper flange, whereupon, the spout thread and
the fitment thread are in a mating engagement. Such mating
engagement allows for removal of the self sealing fitment from the
spout through twisting of the spout relative to the self sealing
fitment, guided by the mating engagement of the fitment thread and
the spout thread.
[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the spout has an upper annular
rim flange disposed at the distal end. The upper annular rim flange
extends outwardly from the cylindrical upstand. In operable
engagement, the upper annular rim flange engages the stopper
flange, precluding further insertive movement of the spout within
the passageway.
[0012] In another preferred embodiment, the stopper flange is
spaced apart from the upper annular portion such that a portion of
the passage way remains unobstructed between the upper annular rim
flange and the upper annular portion.
[0013] In another preferred embodiment, the upper annular portion
further includes a grasping flange extending outwardly therefrom.
The grasping flange facilitates the prying off of the fitment from
the spout.
[0014] In another preferred embodiment, lower portion of the inner
surface has a height, the height of the lower portion of the inner
surface is less than a distance between the distal end of the
cylindrical upstand and the upper flange, such that the outer
depending annular member is spaced apart from the upper flange.
[0015] In another preferred embodiment, the inner depending annular
member extends beyond the outer depending annular member.
[0016] In another preferred embodiment, the spout thread has an
upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface of the spout
thread has a slope that is greater than that of the lower surface.
As a result, the force required to pass the fitment thread over the
spout thread is greater in one direction than in an opposite
direction.
[0017] In another preferred embodiment, the fitment thread is
positioned entirely on the lower portion of the inner surface, and
is spaced apart from the stopper flange.
[0018] In another preferred embodiment, the spout thread is
positioned entirely between the distal end of the cylindrical
upstand and the upper flange, and spaced apart from each one.
[0019] In another aspect of the disclosure, the disclosure is
directed to a self sealing fitment assembly having a body defining
an opening, and a sealing membrane extending over the opening. The
sealing membrane has a valve positionable between a closed position
and an open position. The body further comprises an upper annular
portion, an inner depending annular member and an outer depending
annular member. The inner depending annular member extends from the
upper annular portion. The inner depending annular member has an
outer surface. The outer depending annular member extends from the
upper annular portion spaced apart from the inner depending annular
member. The outer depending annular member has an inner surface.
The inner surface and outer surface cooperatively form a passageway
configured to receive the cylindrical upstand of the spout. The
inner surface of the outer depending annular member has a lower
portion of a first thickness, and an upper portion of a second
thickness which is greater than the first thickness, resulting in a
narrowing of the passageway, with an inwardly directed stopper
flange defined therebetween. A fitment thread helically disposed on
the lower portion of the inner surface.
[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the fitment thread is spaced
apart from the stopper flange.
[0021] In another preferred embodiment, the upper annular portion
further includes a grasping flange extending outwardly from the
outer depending annular member. The grasping flange is spaced apart
from the stopper flange.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] The disclosure will now be described with reference to the
drawings wherein:
[0023] FIG. 1 of the drawings is a top plan view of a container
having a spout with self sealing fitment assembly mounted
thereto;
[0024] FIG. 2 of the drawings is a partial perspective view of the
container having a spout with self sealing fitment assembly mounted
thereto;
[0025] FIG. 3 of the drawings is a partial perspective view of the
container having a spout with self sealing fitment assembly mounted
thereto, without the cap to the fitment;
[0026] FIG. 4 of the drawings is a perspective view of the spout
for use with the self sealing fitment assembly of the present
disclosure;
[0027] FIG. 5 of the drawings is a side elevational view of the
spout for use with the self sealing fitment assembly of the present
disclosure;
[0028] FIG. 6 of the drawings is another side elevational view of
the spout for use with the self sealing fitment assembly of the
present disclosure, being rotated a quarter turn from the view of
FIG. 5;
[0029] FIG. 7 of the drawings is another side elevational view of
the spout for use with the self sealing fitment assembly of the
present disclosure, being rotated a quarter turn from the view of
FIG. 6;
[0030] FIG. 8 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the
spout for use with the self sealing fitment assembly of the present
disclosure;
[0031] FIG. 9 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the self
sealing fitment of the present disclosure, showing the cap in the
installed configuration;
[0032] FIG. 10 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the
self sealing fitment of the present disclosure, taken about a plane
proximate the first end of the thread, to, in turn, show the gap
between the stopping flange and the first end of the thread;
[0033] FIG. 11 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the
self sealing fitment of the present disclosure, having the cap
removed;
[0034] FIG. 12 of the drawings is a perspective view of the cap of
the self sealing fitment of the present disclosure;
[0035] FIG. 13 of the drawings is a partial cross-sectional view of
the fitment assembly of the dispensing system of the present
disclosure, showing, in particular, the placement of the sealing
membrane and the retaining ring;
[0036] FIG. 14 of the drawings is a perspective view of the sealing
membrane of the present disclosure, showing, in particular, the
valve opening;
[0037] FIG. 15 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the
sealing membrane of the present disclosure;
[0038] FIG. 16 of the drawings is a partial cross-sectional view of
the sealing membrane of the present disclosure, showing, in
particular, the features of the body attachment flange, the
connector region and the sidewall structure of the valve body;
[0039] FIG. 17 of the drawings is a perspective view of a
cross-section of the self sealing fitment mounted on the spout of
the present disclosure; and
[0040] FIG. 18 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the
self sealing fitment mounted on the spout of the present
disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0041] While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many
different forms, there is shown in the drawings and described
herein in detail a specific embodiment with the understanding that
the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification
and is not intended to be limited to the embodiment
illustrated.
[0042] It will be understood that like or analogous elements and/or
components, referred to herein, may be identified throughout the
drawings by like reference characters. In addition, it will be
understood that the drawings are merely schematic representations
of the invention, and some of the components may have been
distorted from actual scale for purposes of pictorial clarity.
[0043] Referring now to the Figures of the present disclosure, and
in particular to FIGS. 1 through 3, collectively, container
assembly 10 includes container body (flexible bag) 12, spout 14 and
fitment assembly 16. With reference to FIG. 1, the container body
12 comprises a plurality of flexible polymer panels 13 and a
plurality of seals 15 coupling the panels to each other. The panels
and seals cooperate to define cavity 26. Of course, the invention
is not limited to any particular number of panels and/or seals, or,
a container body having any particular geometric configuration. For
example, the container body may comprise a pillow-type container,
or may comprise a gusseted container, among others. Such container
assemblies are commonly utilized with a number of different types
of flowable material. For example, syrups, purees, smoothies,
pastes and other materials may be utilized in association with the
container. The disclosure is certainly not limited to any
particular flowable material. The flexible bag is often positioned
within an outer rigid container and a probe is directed through the
fitment. One particular use is with thicker beverage mixes and
associated filling equipment.
[0044] Spout 14 is shown in more detail in FIGS. 4 through 8 as
comprising base flange 300, cylindrical upstand 302, upper flange
304, upper annular rim flange 306 and thread 308. The base flange
300 includes lower portion 310 and upper portion 312. The two
portions define lower surface 318, top surface 316 and outer
surface 314. As will be understood to those of skill in the art,
the base flange is coupled to the container body (i.e., typically a
conventional pillow-type container) through welding, adhesion or
other system typically joining the upper surface to the inside of
the panels. The cylindrical upstand 302 extends upwardly from the
base flange 300, positioned at a proximal end 324 thereof, and
extends generally orthogonal thereto toward distal end 326.
Typically, the cylindrical upstand is substantially uniform in
cross-section and the inner surface defines a passageway which
provides fluid communication with the cavity of the container.
While termed cylindrical, elliptical as well as other shapes are
contemplated.
[0045] The upper flange 304 includes upper surface 330, lower
surface 332 and outer surface 334. The upper flange is spaced apart
from the lower flange and is generally parallel thereto. Thus, a
generally uniform channel is defined between the flanges. Filling
equipment and dispensing equipment may be configured to grasp the
spout 14 about the channel and the flanges. In the embodiment
shown, the upper flange corresponds in diameter to the upper
portion 312 of the base flange 300 with the outer surfaces of each
being corresponding in configuration (that is, having the same foot
print, for example).
[0046] The upper annular rim flange 306 extends about the distal
end of the cylindrical upstand 302. In the embodiment shown, the
upper annular rim flange 306 extends outwardly from the outer
surface of the cylindrical upstand and generally has a diameter
which is smaller than the upper flange 304 (and that generally
matches the diameter of the outer surface 348 of the thread
308).
[0047] The thread 308 includes first end 340, second end 342 and
generally comprises a single helical winding which overlaps for a
portion (such as for example a quarter turn to a half turn). The
helical winding includes a upper surface 344, a lower surface 346
and an outer surface 348. The first end 340 of the helical winding
has an upper surface which is tapered so that a gap is preserved
between the upper annular rim flange and the thread. In the
embodiment shown, the upper taper extends about a quarter turn. It
will be understood that such a configuration allows for an extended
thread while preserving the gap separating the thread from the
upper annular rim flange.
[0048] The upper surface is inclined in a downward and outward
configuration at a different angle than the lower surface The slope
of the upper surface is substantially greater than that of the
lower surface. This provides a one way effect to the mating
threads, in that they can be snapped over the threads when directed
on (or in a downward direction on the spout) while generally
requiring greater force to remove the cap from the spout.
[0049] The spout may comprise a HDPE material, or a polypropylene
material, among other polymer materials. It will be understood that
the spout is generally an injection molded component that comprises
a single uniform material, although it is contemplated that
multiple materials may be utilized for desired portions thereof. Of
course, other methods of manufacturing, as well as other materials
are likewise contemplated.
[0050] An exemplary fitment assembly 16 is shown in its entirety
and in separate components, collectively, in FIGS. 9 through 16 as
comprising body 40, sealing membrane 42, retaining ring 44 and
cap/seal 46. The body 40 includes upper annular portion 200, inner
depending annular member 202 and outer depending annular member
204. An opening 54 is defined in the upper annular portion 200 and
the inner depending annular member 202. Generally, the body and the
cap may be integrally molded (much like the Sentry product sold by
Scholle Corporation). The sealing membrane and the retaining ring
comprise separate elements which are coupled to the base. In
certain embodiments, the cap may be omitted, and a membrane seal
(formed from a foil or a polymer film) can be sealingly engaged
with the body. This membrane is frangible and pierced prior to or
simultaneous with insertion of a drain or probe into the opening 54
of the fitment assembly. Typically, the base and cap, as well as
the ring, are formed from a polymer, such as HDPE, or
polypropylene, although other materials are likewise
contemplated.
[0051] The upper annular portion 200 includes circumferential cap
sealing flange 56. The circumferential cap sealing flange 56 is
typically employed when cap 46 is utilized. The cap 46 includes a
similar sealing flange 56` which together with the cap sealing
flange 56 provides a hermetic seal when engaged. In embodiments
wherein a membrane seal is utilized, the sealing flange 56 can be
omitted, and the membrane seal can be sealed against the
circumferential sealing surface 57 which is outboard of the
location of the cap sealing flange. Additionally, tamper evident
structures, such as structures 51, 51' may be provided on the cap.
In other embodiments, a foil seal or a membrane coupled to the body
may be utilized.
[0052] Additionally, the upper annular portion 200 includes outer
annular bulge 214 which includes an outer surface 218 and a
grasping flange 219. The outer surface 218 includes a plurality of
surface variations which aid in grasping of the body to rotate the
same about the spout. The grasping flange 219 provides a surface
that is substantially perpendicular to the opening of the body and
extends outwardly beyond the outer depending annular member,
providing a location to grasp when prying the cap off of the
spout.
[0053] Outer depending annular member 204 includes inner surface
230 and outer surface 232. The inner surface 230 includes upper
portion 240, lower portion 242 and stopper flange 244 therebetween.
The lower portion includes thread 250 and terminates at distal end
252. The thread 250 has a helical winding that threadingly engages
with the thread of the spout, and includes first end 254, second
end 256, upper surface 258, lower surface 260 and outer surface
262. The thread 250 generally has a symmetrical configuration such
that the upper and lower surfaces are mirror images of each other.
It will be understood that variations are contemplated to further
enhance the resistance to pry the cap off and decrease the
resistance to snap the cap onto the spout. The distal end 252
includes chamfer 264 which is inwardly and upwardly directed.
[0054] Inner depending annular member 202 extends generally
downwardly from the upper annular portion at a proximal end 220 and
extends to a distal end 222. The inner depending annular member
includes inner surface 224 and outer surface 226. The outer surface
226 includes upper portion 227, engagement portion 228 and lower
portion 229. The upper portion corresponds to the portion of the
surface that is above the stopper flange. The lower surface
corresponds to the region below the stopper flange. It will be
understood that, due to the hermetic seal, the dimension of the
surface may vary so as to impart elastic and or plastic deformation
in a desired manner. In the embodiment shown, the upper portion and
a portion of the lower portion has a larger diameter than the
remainder of the lower portion so as to provide a gradient of
deformation therebetween Inner surface 224 and membrane engaging
flange 66 positioned at the lower end thereof. The inner surface
224 includes a recessed circumferential channel 67, a base channel
68 and a membrane engaging surface between the recessed
circumferential channel 67 and the base channel 68. In the
embodiment shown, the membrane engaging flange 66 is angled so that
the surface of the flange is at an acute angle with the membrane
engagement surface 69. Of course, this is exemplary and not to be
deemed limiting. Additionally, an inwardly sloping guide wall
portion 63 may be circumferentially disposed above the recessed
circumferential channel so as to direct a probe inwardly toward the
membrane above the position of the retaining ring when the
retaining ring is in its operable position. Similarly, an upper
inwardly sloping lower guide wall portion 65 extends from a
depending region 61 of the membrane engaging flange 66 and directs
the membrane, and in turn, the probe toward the center of the
opening. It has been found that such a portion 65 greatly limits
damage to the membrane caused by the probe entering in a less than
ideal location.
[0055] With reference to FIGS. 14 through 16, sealing membrane 42
is shown as comprising body attachment flange 70, valve body 90 and
connector region 120. The sealing membrane comprises a silicone
polymer material, although other materials are likewise
contemplated for use. Such materials include, but are not limited
to natural and synthetic rubbers and low durometer polymers.
Generally the sealing membrane has a generally circular
circumferential configuration with the body attachment flange
having an annular configuration. Of course, the outer perimeter
configuration is not limited to a substantially circular
configuration, and other shapes are contemplated for use.
[0056] With further reference to FIG. 13, the body attachment
flange 70 comprises upper seal surface 72, lower seal surface 74
outer seal surface 76 and connector coupling interface 78. The body
attachment flange has a substantially triangular cross-sectional
configuration. In such a configuration the outer seal surface 76 is
substantially vertically oriented, and includes an upper flange 86
which extends outwardly from the upper end thereof. The connector
coupling interface 78 is spaced apart from, and inward of, the
outer seal surface 76. The upper seal surface 72 extends across the
upper ends of the outer seal surface 72 and the connector coupling
interface 78. The lower seal surface 74 extends across the lower
ends of the outer seal surface 72 and the connector coupling
interface 78.
[0057] As will be explained, the outer seal surface 76 seals
against membrane engagement surface 69. Additionally, the lower
seal surface 74 sealingly engages membrane engaging flange 66.
Finally, the upper seal surface sealingly engages the sealing
membrane engaging surface 182 of the retaining ring 44. The ring
compresses the body attachment flange 70 against the membrane
engaging flange 66 and the natural resilience of the material forms
a substantially fluid tight seal.
[0058] With reference to FIGS. 15 and 16, the valve body 90 is
shown as comprising a substantially cup-like shaped member. The
valve body includes sidewall structure 92 and base wall structure
94. In the embodiment shown, the sidewall structure 92 comprises a
substantially annular hoop-like member with the base wall structure
94 spanning within the confines of the sidewall structure.
[0059] The sidewall structure 92 comprises inner surface 96 and
outer surface 98. The inner surface includes upper end 106 and
lower end 108. The inner surface slopes inwardly from the upper end
106 to the lower end 108. Inward protrusion 110 is disposed between
the upper end and the lower end. The inward protrusion, in the
embodiment shown, comprises an annular bump with a substantially
hemispherical cross-sectional configuration. Of course, other
configurations are contemplated. The inward protrusion helps to
direct the probe toward the valve opening 104, and provides an
additional measure of strength to the sidewall to preclude damage
to the sealing membrane during insertion of the probe.
[0060] The outer surface 98 of the sidewall structure 92 includes
upper end 114 and lower end 116. Generally the outer surface is
substantially perpendicular to the base wall structure 94. In the
embodiment shown, the outer surface 98 substantially tracks the
membrane engaging flange 66 in a spaced apart orientation
therefrom, and in particular, the outer surface 98 is inclined
slightly inwardly. The lower end 116 of the outer surface 98 may
include a chamfer 99 which substantially matches the surface
variation of the membrane engaging flange 66.
[0061] The sidewall structure 92 has a greater thickness at the
lower end 108, 116 of the inner surface 96 and the outer surface
98, respectively, than at the upper ends thereof. As such,
deformation of the lower end of the sidewall structure is minimized
relative to the top thereof, and the additional thickness provides
further cushioning if the probe is inserted in a manner that is not
directed at the valve opening 104.
[0062] With reference to FIGS. 14 through 16, the base wall
structure 94 includes inner surface 100, outer surface 102 and
valve opening 104. The inner surface 100 is spaced apart from the
outer surface such that the base wall structure 94 is of a
substantially uniform thickness inboard of the sidewall structure
92.
[0063] The valve opening 104 comprises a plurality of slits that
are configured to separate and to sealingly engage a probe inserted
therethrough. Typically, with the materials that are contemplated
for the sealing membrane, upon removal of the probe, the material
rejoins such that the slits substantially preclude the passage
therethrough of fluid. In the embodiment shown, a substantially
snowflake like configuration is shown, which is well suited to the
grasping and sealingly engaging a probe of, for example, a
cylindrical configuration.
[0064] The connector region 120 is shown in FIG. 13 as comprising
an inner interface 122 and an outer interface 124. The inner
interface 122 engages the sidewall structure 92 of the valve body
90. The outer interface 124 extends from the sealing membrane, and
in particular from the connector coupling interface 78. The outer
interface 124 is spaced apart from the lower end of the lower seal
surface 74 so as to form a channel which insures that contact of
the connector region with the membrane engaging flange can be
minimized.
[0065] With reference to FIG. 13, retaining ring 44 comprises a
hoop-like structure which has body engaging tab 180, sealing
membrane engagement surface 182 and inner wall structure 184. The
tab 180 is shown as comprising a projection extending outwardly
about the outside perimeter of the retaining ring.
[0066] The tab 180 is configured to be insertable and restrainable
within the recessed channel 67. With the tab inserted within the
channel 67, the body attachment flange 70 of the sealing membrane
42 becomes compressed so as to form a fluid-tight seal between the
lower seal surface 76 of the sealing membrane 42 and the membrane
engagement flange 66 of opening 54. In particular, the ring presses
against the membrane so that its base surface presses against the
body attachment flange and the upper seal surface 72 engages the
seal membrane engagement surface 182. The natural resilience of the
sealing membrane allows for the sealed engagement against the ring
and the body. Typically, the seal membrane engagement surface
includes a surface area which engages a similarly configured
surface area on the membrane itself. The surface area of engagement
is such that a significant seal can be created therebetween.
[0067] The inner wall structure 184 is configured to preclude
damage to the membrane proximate the engagement of the membrane
with the membrane engagement flange 66. Typically, the bags
associated with the present fitment assembly, when full, may have a
weight of, for example 25 pounds or the like. As such, when dropped
onto a probe-type dispenser that is designed to extend through the
membrane, damage to the membrane is of heightened concern. It has
been found that the potential for damage to the membrane is greatly
reduced with the presently configured inner wall structure 184. The
inner wall structure 184 includes a inwardly sloping protective
flange 186 that extends over a portion of the membrane and extends
radially inwardly beyond the inward projection of the membrane
engagement flange 66. The inwardly sloping protective flange
terminates with a substantially planar wall 187 which is
substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the opening.
[0068] In such a configuration, a downwardly projecting probe may
hit the inner wall structure 184 which will direct the probe
inwardly toward the membrane. As the probe is directed to the
membrane, the engagement of the probe with the membrane occurs at a
point that is spaced apart from the membrane engagement flange 66
and thus, an additional measure of give is observed. The inwardly
sloping angle is configured to slope inwardly at an acute angle of
approximately 20.degree. to 50.degree. , however, the invention is
not limited thereto.
[0069] Furthermore, the configuration of the membrane enhances the
ability to withstand impacts from the downwardly projecting probe.
The sidewall structure and the connector region are configured to
both deflect and to direct the probe toward the valve opening. In
particular, the inner surface 96 is inclined inwardly to urge the
probe toward the valve opening. Additionally, the lower portions of
the sidewall structure have less deflection, due to the greater
thickness to further urge the probe toward the valve opening.
Further still, the greater thickness and the inward protrusion
further provide additional protection to the membrane to promote
the integrity of the membrane.
[0070] It will be understood that the cap can be snapped onto the
spout and then twisted off the spout by hand (or vice versa, for
example). This allows for the removal without the use of a tool. It
will be understood that the spout therefor has two different means
of attachment. To facilitate such a dual attachment, especially in
an environment wherein a probe is extended through the membrane,
durability and resistance to movement are different than for caps
that do not have only a single means of removal.
[0071] With reference to FIGS. 17 and 18, amongst other features,
the continued movement of the fitment onto the spout is limited by
the stopper flange that extends inwardly from the inner surface of
the outer depending annular member. The stopper flange interfaces
with the upper annular rim flange 306, thereby limiting movement
and precluding engagement between the distal end of the outer
depending annular member and the upper surface of the upper flange,
as well as precluding engagement between the upper annular portion
and the upper annular rim flange. In such a configuration,
additionally, the upper annular rim flange can be deflected by the
stopper flange so as to provide additional force resisting
disengagement. As set forth, the stopper flange is spaced apart
from the upper annular portion, thereby leaving a space between the
rim flange and the upper annular portion. Such a spacing provides
improved snap on capabilities to the cap by allowing the deflection
of the outer depending annular member about a region that is spaced
apart from the stopper flange.
[0072] In addition, the distal end of the outer depending annular
member 204 is spaced apart from the upper flange 304 of the spout.
Indeed, when fully in the installed configuration spacing
separation remains. Such a configuration allows for grasping
between these elements (to aid removal, for example). Additionally,
the configuration precludes interaction between the cap and the
upper flange 304 even where the installation (i.e., the insertion
of the probe) may cause deflection or relative movement between the
cap and the spout. Furthermore, the distal end is chamfered to
further limit the interaction between the distal end and the spout,
while providing support for the thread positioned on the inner
surface thereof. Additionally, to further strengthen the
interaction of the inner and outer depending annular members, the
distal end of the inner depending annular member 202 extends at
least close to even with, or, preferably even beyond, the distal
end of the outer depending member, while being inwardly tapered. As
such, while providing additional stability and integrity to the
inner depending annular member (while also providing support for
the membrane), such a configuration provides an enhanced structural
channel between the inner and outer depending annular members.
[0073] In addition, in the installed configuration, the thread of
the spout is spaced apart from the upper annular rim flange (and
the thread tapered to maintain the gap), thereby allowing both the
threads to flex and the upper annular rim flange to flex without
interfering with each other. The threads of the body remain spaced
apart from the stopper flange and maintained entirely within the
lower portion of the inner surface. As a result, the entire region
upon which the thread is positioned is configured to flex more
easily than the region above the stopper flange. Furthermore, the
separation between the stopper flange and the thread likewise
provide improved flexing.
[0074] In addition, the outer annular bulge 214 and the grasping
flange 219 are spaced apart from the stopper flange and positioned
at or near the proximal end 246 of the outer surface of the outer
depending annular member. In such a configuration, the location of
the end of the spout is spaced apart from the grasping flange,
increasing the mechanical advantage to separate the two. In
addition, the increased annular thickness required by the grasping
flange can be minimized due to the position of the same with
respect to the proximal end of the outer depending annular
member.
[0075] The foregoing description merely explains and illustrates
the invention and the invention is not limited thereto except
insofar as the appended claims are so limited, as those skilled in
the art who have the disclosure before them will be able to make
modifications without departing from the scope of the
invention.
* * * * *