U.S. patent application number 15/125481 was filed with the patent office on 2017-03-16 for pouring spout and package including the same.
The applicant listed for this patent is COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY. Invention is credited to John Crawford.
Application Number | 20170073115 15/125481 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50397345 |
Filed Date | 2017-03-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170073115 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Crawford; John |
March 16, 2017 |
Pouring Spout and Package Including the Same
Abstract
A spout fitment (130) for dispensing a scented household liquid
(200) is disclosed that includes a pouring spout having a
topographical feature (175D) that may increase the exposed surface
area of a liquid and/or alter the fluid dynamics of the scented
household liquid (200) during a product dispensing event. The
pouring spout may comprise a floor surface (144), a first side
surface (145), and a second side surface (142) that collectively
define a flow channel for dispensing the liquid, the flow channel
extending along a longitudinal axis from a spout inlet to a spout
outlet (150); and at least one of the floor surface, the first side
surface, and the second side surface comprising a topographical
feature (175D) selected from at least one of a plurality of
depressions and a plurality of protuberances (175D).
Inventors: |
Crawford; John; (Mahopac,
NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY |
New York |
NY |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
50397345 |
Appl. No.: |
15/125481 |
Filed: |
March 12, 2014 |
PCT Filed: |
March 12, 2014 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2014/024605 |
371 Date: |
September 12, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 25/2885 20130101;
B65D 25/42 20130101; B65D 47/123 20130101; B65D 47/40 20130101;
B65D 2203/12 20130101; B65D 1/0246 20130101; B65D 41/02 20130101;
B65D 47/06 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 25/42 20060101
B65D025/42; B65D 41/02 20060101 B65D041/02; B65D 25/28 20060101
B65D025/28; B65D 1/02 20060101 B65D001/02 |
Claims
1. A spout fitment for dispensing a liquid, the spout fitment
comprising: a pouring spout, the pouring spout comprising a floor
surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface that
collectively define a flow channel for dispensing the liquid, the
flow channel extending along a longitudinal axis from a spout inlet
to a spout outlet; and at least one of the floor surface, the first
side surface, and the second side surface comprising a
topographical feature selected from at least one of a plurality of
depressions and a plurality of protuberances.
2. The spout fitment according to claim 1 wherein the flow channel
comprises a flared section in which a transverse distance between
the first and second side surfaces increases with longitudinal
distance from the spout inlet.
3. The spout fitment according to claim 1 wherein the topographical
feature comprises a plurality of protuberances protruding from the
floor of the pouring spout.
4. The spout fitment according to claim 3 wherein the plurality of
protuberances comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending
ridges.
5. The spout fitment according to claim 4 wherein the plurality of
longitudinally extending ridges diverge from one another with
longitudinal distance from the spout inlet.
6. The spout fitment according to claim 3 wherein the plurality of
protuberances comprises a plurality of transversely extending
ridges.
7. The spout fitment according to claim 1 wherein the topographical
feature comprises a plurality of depressions formed in the floor of
the pouring spout.
8. The spout fitment according to claim 7 wherein the plurality of
depressions comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending
grooves.
9. The spout fitment according to claim 8 wherein the plurality of
longitudinally extending grooves diverge from one another with
longitudinal distance from the spout inlet.
10. The spout fitment according to claim 7 wherein the plurality of
depressions comprises a plurality of transversely extending
grooves.
11. The spout fitment according to claim 1 wherein the
topographical feature comprises at least one longitudinally
extending ridge protruding from each of the first and second side
surfaces.
12. The spout fitment according to claim 1 wherein the
topographical feature comprises at least one longitudinally
extending groove formed in each of the first and second side
surfaces.
13. The spout fitment according to claim 1 wherein the floor
surface of the pouring spout is substantially planar.
14. The spout fitment according to claim 1 wherein each the first
and second side surfaces have a height that decreases with
longitudinal distance from the spout inlet.
15. The spout fitment according to claim 1 wherein the spout outlet
has a width and a height, the width being greater than the
height.
16. The spout fitment according to claim 1 further comprising: an
annular wall; an end wall extending inward from a bottom of the
annular wall; and the pouring spout extending upward from the end
wall so that an annular gap is formed between the annular wall and
the pouring spout.
17. A packaged product comprising: the spout fitment according to
claim 1; a container body forming a cavity containing the liquid,
the container body comprising a neck portion; the spout fitment
coupled to the neck portion of the container body.
18. The packaged product according to claim 17 further comprising a
cap detachably coupled to the container body to cover the pouring
spout and seal the cavity.
19. The packaged product according to claim 17 wherein the neck
portion comprises a top edge, the pouring spout having a first
portion located within the neck portion and a second portion
protruding beyond the top edge of the neck portion.
20. The spout fitment according to claim 17 wherein the liquid is a
scented household liquid selected from a group consisting of a
laundry care liquid and a cleaning liquid.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Containers for home care liquids, such as laundry detergents
and fabric softeners, having closure assemblies that include
integrated pouring spouts are known. In such existing containers,
the integrated pouring spouts channel the flow of the home care
liquid during into a concentrated stream of the home care liquid
during dispensing. As a result, the exposed surface area of the
home care liquid in the pouring spout is minimized during a product
dispensing event. Existing container are, thus, not optimal for
dispensing scented household liquids where it may be desirable to
release a perceptible scent (or fragrance) during the
dispensing.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0002] The present invention is directed to a packaged product
comprising a container and a scented household liquid. The
container includes an integrated pouring spout that is configured
to increase the exposed surface area of a scented household liquid
in the pouring spout during a product dispensing event, thereby
increasing the amount of scent (or fragrance) released from the
scented household liquid during the product dispensing event. In
one aspect, the pouring spout may have a flared section in which
the transverse width of the flow channel increases moving toward
the spout outlet, thereby allowing the flow of the scented
household liquid to transversely spread out to increase the exposed
surface area. In another aspect, the pouring spout is designed such
that at least one of the floor surface and side surfaces that
define the flow channel have a topographical feature that may
increase the exposed surface area of a liquid in the pouring spout
and/or alter the fluid dynamics of the liquid in the pouring spout
during dispensing.
[0003] In one embodiment, the invention can be a packaged product
comprising: a container body forming a cavity containing a scented
household liquid, the container body comprising a neck portion; a
spout fitment coupled to the neck portion of the container body,
the spout fitment comprising a pouring spout; the pouring spout
comprising a flow channel for dispensing the scented household
liquid from the cavity, the flow channel extending along a
longitudinal axis from a spout inlet to a spout outlet at a distal
end of the pouring spout; the flow channel comprising a flared
section having a transverse width that increases with longitudinal
distance from the spout inlet; and a cap detachably coupled to the
container body to cover the pouring spout and seal the cavity.
[0004] In another embodiment, the invention can be a spout fitment
for dispensing a liquid, the spout fitment comprising: a pouring
spout, the pouring spout comprising a floor surface, a first side
surface, and a second side surface that collectively define a flow
channel for dispensing the liquid, the flow channel extending along
a longitudinal axis from a spout inlet to a spout outlet; and at
least one of the floor surface, the first side surface, and the
second side surface comprising a topographical feature selected
from at least one of a plurality of depressions and a plurality of
protuberances.
[0005] In yet another embodiment, the invention can be a packaged
product comprising: a container body forming a cavity containing
the liquid, the container body comprising a neck portion; a spout
fitment coupled to the neck portion of the container body, the
spout fitment comprising: a pouring spout, the pouring spout
comprising a floor surface, a first side surface extending upward
from the floor surface, and a second side surface extending upward
from the floor surface; the floor surface, the first side surface,
and the second side surface collectively defining a flow channel
for dispensing the scented household liquid, the flow channel
extending along a longitudinal axis from a spout inlet to a spout
outlet; and at least one of the floor surface, the first side
surface, and the second side surface comprising a topographical
feature selected from at least one of a plurality of depressions
and a plurality of protuberances.
[0006] Further areas of applicability of the present invention will
become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter.
It should be understood that the detailed description and specific
examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the
invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are
not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The present invention will become more fully understood from
the detailed description and the accompanying drawings,
wherein:
[0008] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional schematic of a packaged product
in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a top portion of the
packaged product of FIG. 1, wherein the cap of the container has
been removed;
[0010] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a top portion of the
packaged product of FIG. 1, wherein the cap of the container has
been removed and a scented liquid is being dispensed therefrom;
[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the spout fitment of the
container of the packaged product of FIG. 1;
[0012] FIG. 4 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 3;
[0013] FIG. 5 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout
fitment of FIG. 3;
[0014] FIG. 6 is a top view of a first alternate geometry of a
pouring spout that can be incorporated into the spout fitment of
the container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with
a further embodiment of the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 7 is a top view of a second alternate geometry of a
pouring spout that can be incorporated into the spout fitment of
the container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with
a yet further embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 8 is a top view of a third alternate geometry of a
pouring spout that can be incorporated into the spout fitment of
the container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with
a still further embodiment of the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a first alternate embodiment
of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of
the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present
invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of
transversely extending ridges;
[0018] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of the first alternate
embodiment of the spout fitment of FIG. 9, wherein a scented
household liquid is being dispensed therefrom;
[0019] FIG. 10 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 9;
[0020] FIG. 11 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout
fitment of FIG. 9;
[0021] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a second alternate
embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the
container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with the
present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality
of longitudinally extending ridges;
[0022] FIG. 13 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 12;
[0023] FIG. 14 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout
fitment of FIG. 12;
[0024] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a third alternate
embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the
container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with the
present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality
of longitudinally extending ridges and a plurality of transversely
extending ridges;
[0025] FIG. 16 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 15;
[0026] FIG. 17 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout
fitment of FIG. 15;
[0027] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a fourth alternate
embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the
container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with the
present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality
of transversely extending grooves;
[0028] FIG. 19 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 18;
[0029] FIG. 20 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout
fitment of FIG. 18;
[0030] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a fourth alternate
embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the
container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with the
present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality
of longitudinally extending grooves;
[0031] FIG. 22 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 21;
[0032] FIG. 23 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout
fitment of FIG. 21;
[0033] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a fifth alternate
embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the
container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with the
present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality
of longitudinally extending grooves and a plurality of transversely
extending ridges;
[0034] FIG. 25 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 24;
[0035] FIG. 26 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout
fitment of FIG. 24;
[0036] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a sixth alternate
embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the
container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with the
present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality
of longitudinally extending ridges and a plurality of transversely
extending grooves;
[0037] FIG. 28 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 27;
and
[0038] FIG. 29 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout
fitment of FIG. 27.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0039] The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is
merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the
invention, its application, or uses.
[0040] As used throughout, ranges are used as shorthand for
describing each and every value that is within the range. Any value
within the range can be selected as the terminus of the range. In
addition, all references cited herein are hereby incorporated by
referenced in their entireties. In the event of a conflict in a
definition in the present disclosure and that of a cited reference,
the present disclosure controls.
[0041] The description of illustrative embodiments according to
principles of the present invention is intended to be read in
connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be
considered part of the entire written description. In the
description of embodiments of the invention disclosed herein, any
reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for
convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit
the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as "lower,"
"upper," "horizontal," "vertical," "above," "below," "up," "down,"
"top" and "bottom" as well as derivatives thereof (e.g.,
"horizontally," "downwardly," "upwardly," etc.) should be construed
to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the
drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience
of description only and do not require that the apparatus be
constructed or operated in a particular orientation unless
explicitly indicated as such. Terms such as "attached," "affixed,"
"connected," "coupled," "interconnected," and similar refer to a
relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one
another either directly or indirectly through intervening
structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or
relationships, unless expressly described otherwise. Moreover, the
features and benefits of the invention are illustrated by reference
to the exemplified embodiments. Accordingly, the invention
expressly should not be limited to such exemplary embodiments
illustrating some possible non-limiting combination of features
that may exist alone or in other combinations of features; the
scope of the invention being defined by the claims appended
hereto.
[0042] Referring first to FIG. 1, a packaged product 1000 according
to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The
packaged product 1000 generally comprises a container 100 and a
liquid, which in the exemplified embodiment is a scented household
liquid 200. The container 100 forms a sealed enclosure for the
scented household liquid 200 that is suitable for transport,
storage, and handling of the scented household liquid 200. As
discussed in greater detail below, the container 100 is also
configured to dispense the scented household liquid 200 in a
controlled manner.
[0043] The scented household liquid 200, in certain embodiments,
may be a laundry care liquid, a cleaning liquid, and an oral care
liquid. Examples of suitable laundry care liquids include, without
limitation, laundry detergents, stain removers, and fabric
softeners. Examples of cleaning liquids include, without
limitation, dish soaps, dishwashing detergents, liquid soaps, body
wash and shower gels. Examples of suitable oral care liquids
include, without limitation, mouthwash, oral rinsing fluids, and
oral medicaments. In other embodiments, liquids other than a
scented household liquid may be used with the container 100.
[0044] The container 100 generally comprises a container body 110,
a cap 120, and a spout fitment 130. The container body 110
comprises a main body portion 111 and a neck portion 112. The
container body 110, in the exemplified embodiment, is integrally
formed as a single component. In certain other embodiments,
however, the container body 110 may be a multi-component structure.
The container body 110 may be formed of a plastic, for example by
utilizing a blow molding or injection molding technique. Suitable
plastics include, without limitation, polypropylene, polystyrene,
and high and low density polyethylene. In other embodiments, the
container body 110 may be formed of metal, glass, ceramic, treated
cellulosic materials, or any other material that is impermeable to
the scented household liquid 200 being stored therein.
[0045] The main body portion 111 of the container body 110 forms a
cavity 113 for containing the scented household liquid 200. The
neck portion 112 is an annular wall structure that defines a
central opening 114 that forms a passageway into the cavity 113.
The neck portion 112 terminates in an annular top edge 115. As will
be described in greater detail below, the neck portion 112 provides
the structure by which the spout fitment 130 and cap 120 can be
coupled to the container body 110.
[0046] In the exemplified embodiment, the outer surface 116 of the
neck portion 112 comprises threads 117 that facilitate threaded
coupling between the container body 110 and the cap 120. The cap
120 comprises an inner surface 121 that comprises threads 122 that
correspond to the threads 117 of the neck portion 112 for threaded
mating therewith. In other embodiments, the cap 120 may be
indirectly coupled to the container body 110 via the spout fitment
130 (or another structure) that is, in turn, directly or indirectly
coupled to the container body 110. For example, in one such
embodiment, the spout fitment 130 may comprise a skirt (not
illustrated) that circumscribes the outer surface 116 of the neck
portion 112 and that comprises threads on its outer surface for
threaded engagement with the threads 122 of the cap 120. In another
such embodiment, the cap 120 may be resized and provided with
threads on its outer surface 123 for threaded engagement with
threads formed on the inner surface 118 of the neck portion and/or
on the annular wall 131 of the spout fitment 130. In still another
embodiment, threads may be provided on the outer surface of the
inner annular wall 125 of the cap 10 that engage threads formed on
the inner surface 118 of the neck portion and/or on the annular
wall 131 of the spout fitment 130.
[0047] The container body 110 further comprises a handle 119. The
handle 119, as exemplified, is defined by a through-hole 108 that
extends through the container body 110. In other embodiments, the
handle 119 may be formed as a thinned portion of the container body
that may include flanges for gripping. The handle 119, in the
exemplified embodiment, is integrally formed with the main body
portion 111. In certain other embodiments, the handle 119 may be a
separate component that is coupled to the main body portion 111.
The handle 119, in the exemplified embodiment, is hollow and
comprises a handle cavity 109 that is in fluid communication with
the cavity 113 containing the scented household liquid 200. In
other embodiments, the handle 119 may be a solid structure.
[0048] The cap 120 is detachably coupled to the container body 100
so as to be capable of repetitive coupling and decoupling as
necessary to dispense the scented household liquid 200. The cap 120
comprises a cup-shaped body 124 having an open bottom end and a
closed top end. When coupled to the container body 120, the cap 120
covers the pouring spout 140 and seals the cavity 113, thereby
preventing spilling of the scented household liquid 200 from the
container 100.
[0049] In the exemplified embodiment, the cap comprises an inner
annular wall 125 and an outer annular wall 126. The outer annular
wall 126 circumferentially surrounds the inner annular wall 125 in
a concentric manner. The cap 120 further comprises a cap cavity
127, which in the exemplified embodiment is formed by the inner
annular wall 125. The cap cavity 127, in certain embodiments, may
have a predetermined volume that is selected so as to correspond to
a predetermined dose of the scented household liquid 200. For
example, the volume of the cap cavity 17 may be selected so that it
can accommodate only a single dose of the scented household liquid
200. In other embodiments, measurement indicia may be provided on
the inner annular wall 125 so that precise volume measurements
and/or a dose can be made.
[0050] When the cap 120 is coupled to the container body 110, the
inner annular wall 125 extends into the neck portion 112. The inner
annular wall 125 also allows the cap 120 to be used as an
intermediate vessel for the scented household liquid 200 during a
product dispensing event while at the same time protecting the
threads 122 from getting coated by the scented household liquid
200, which may cause subsequent issues when recoupled to the
container body 110.
[0051] When the cap 120 is coupled to the container body 110, the
pouring spout 140 is located within the cap cavity 127. The cap
cavity 127 has an inner diameter D1. The pouring spout 140 has a
maximum width W1 (see FIG. 5). In order ensure that the cap cavity
127 can accommodate the pouring spout 140, the maximum width W1 of
the pouring spout 140 is less than or equal to the inner diameter
D1 of the cap 120. In other embodiments, the inner annular wall 125
may be omitted and the cap cavity 127 may be defined by the outer
annular wall 126 or some other portion of the cap 120.
[0052] Moreover, the neck portion 112 of the container body 110 has
an outer diameter D2. In order to ensure proper fitment of the cap
120 to the container body 110, the maximum width W1 (FIG. 5) of the
pouring spout 140 is less than or equal to the outer diameter D2 of
the neck portion 112.
[0053] Referring now to FIGS. 1-5, the spout fitment 130 comprises
an annular wall 131, an end wall 132 extending inward from a bottom
of the annular wall 131, and a pouring spout 140 extending upward
from the end wall 132 so that an annular gap 133 is formed between
the annular wall 132 and the pouring spout 140. The spout fitment
130 is coupled to the neck portion 112 of the container body 110.
The spout fitment 130, in the exemplified embodiment, is inserted
into the opening 114 defined by the neck portion 112 of the
container body 110 until an upper flange 134 of the annular wall
abuts the top edge 115 of the neck portion 112. The spout fitment
130 is fixed to the container body 110, for example, by a tight-fit
connection between the annular wall 131 of the spout fitment 130
and the neck portion 112 of the container body 110. In other
embodiments, the spout fitment 130 is fixed to the container body
110 via a mechanical interlock between the spout fitment 130 and
the neck portion 112. Suitable mechanical interlocks include,
without limitation, a snap-fit, a threaded engagement, a bayonet
lock, and combinations thereof. In still other embodiments, the
spout fitment 130 is fixed to the container body 110 by adhering
the spout fitment 130 to the neck portion 112 and/or by utilizing a
thermal or sonic weld. When the spout fitment 130 is coupled to the
container body 110, a seal is formed between the annular wall 131
of the spout fitment 130 and the neck portion 112 of the container
body 110, thereby preventing the scented household liquid 200 from
escaping through the interface. The seal may be formed, without
limitation, by a compressed gasket structure (which may be
integrally formed into either the spout fitment 130 and/or the neck
portion 112) or by the adhesive, thermal weld, or sonic weld.
[0054] The end wall 132 comprises a drain aperture 135 that forms a
passageway between the annular gap 133 and the cavity 113 of the
container body 110. The drain aperture 135 allows any scented
household liquid 200 that may gather in the annular gap 133 during
a product dispensing event to return back to the main reservoir of
the scented household liquid 220 within the cavity 113 after the
container 100 is returned to the upright position. The drain
aperture 135 may be especially useful in embodiments of the spout
fitment 130 in which the pouring spout 140 has a tubular portion
adjacent the end wall 132. In certain other embodiments, the drain
aperture 135 may be omitted.
[0055] The spout fitment 130, in the exemplified embodiment, is
integrally formed as a single component. In certain other
embodiments, however, the spout fitment 130 may be a
multi-component structure. The spout fitment 130 may be formed of a
plastic, for example by utilizing an injection molding or machining
technique. Suitable plastics include, without limitation,
polypropylene, polystyrene, and high and low density polyethylene.
In other embodiments, the spout fitment 130 may be formed of metal,
glass, ceramic, treated cellulosic materials or combinations
thereof.
[0056] In the exemplified embodiment, the spout fitment 130 is
formed as a separate component that is subsequently coupled to the
container body 110 in a fixed manner. The spout fitment 130 may be
coupled to the container body 110, for example, through the use of
an adhesive, a friction-fit connection, a snap-fit connection, a
threaded connection, a thermal weld, a sonic weld, a mechanical
interference fit, or combinations thereof. In certain other
embodiments, the spout fitment 130 may be coupled to 110 by way of
integrally forming the spout fitment 130 and at least a portion of
the container body 110 as a unitary single component.
[0057] When the spout fitment 130 is coupled to the container body
110, a first portion 141 of the pouring spout 140 is located within
the neck portion 112 of the container body 110 while a second
portion 142 of the pouring spout 140 protrudes beyond the top edge
115 of the neck portion 112 of the container body 110. More
specifically, the first portion 141 of the pouring spout 140 is
located within the central opening 114 of the neck portion 112 of
the container body 110. The pouring spout 140 comprises a floor
surface 144, a first side surface 145 extending upward from the
floor surface 144, and a second side surface 146 extending upward
from the floor surface 144. The floor surface 144, the first side
surface 145, and the second side surface 146 collectively define a
flow channel 147 for dispensing the scented household liquid 200
from the cavity 113. The flow channel 147 extends along a
longitudinal axis A-A from a spout inlet 148 to a spout outlet
149.
[0058] The pouring spout 140 extends in a cantilevered manner
beyond the top edge 115 of the neck portion 112, thereby
terminating in a free distal end 150. The pouring spout 140, in the
exemplified embodiment, is in the form of an open trough. In other
embodiments, at least a portion of the pouring spout 140 may be in
the form of a closed tubular structure. Each of the first and
second side surfaces 145, 146 comprises an upper edge 151 and has a
height H1 (measured from the floor surface 144 to the upper edge
151) that decreases with longitudinal distance from the spout inlet
148 (see FIG. 1). The height H1 also defines the height of the flow
channel 147. In the exemplified embodiment, the upper edge 151 of
each of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 has a convexly
sloped profile when viewed in side profile (see FIG. 1). In other
embodiments, the upper edge 151 of each of the first and second
side surfaces 145, 146 may have a stepped profile, a linearly
sloped profile, a concave sloped profile, or combinations thereof
(when viewed in side profile).
[0059] In the exemplified embodiment, the floor surface 144 is
substantially planar and each of the first and second side surfaces
145, 146 are also substantially planar. In certain other
embodiments, the floor surface 144 may be longitudinally and/or
transversely contoured. Similarly, each of the first and second
side surfaces 145, 146 may be longitudinally and/or transversely
contoured in other embodiments. Each of the first and second side
surfaces 145, 146 extend upward from the floor surface 144 in a
substantially perpendicular manner. In other embodiments, each of
the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 may extend upward form
the floor surface 144 in an inclined manner, inclining either
toward or away from the longitudinal axis A-A. In the exemplified
embodiment, the longitudinal axis A-A is linear. In even further
embodiments, the floor surface 144 and the first and second side
surfaces 145, 146 may be continuously contoured, such that the
pouring spout resembles an axial section of a hollow tube having an
oval cross-section.
[0060] In certain other embodiments, the flow channel 147 may
extend in a non-linear manner such that the longitudinal axis A-A
is also non-linear. For example, the flow channel 147 may extend in
a longitudinally curved manner such that the longitudinal axis A-A
would also be longitudinally curved.
[0061] The spout inlet 148 is in fluid communication with the flow
channel 147 and the cavity 113, thereby forming a passageway
between the flow channel 147 and the cavity 113 so that scented
household liquid 200 in the cavity 113 can be dispensed from the
container 100 via the poring spout 140 (when the cap 120 is
removed). The spout outlet 149 is located at, and at least
partially defined by, the distal end 150 of the pouring spout
140.
[0062] The first and second side surfaces 145, 146 of the pouring
spout 140 are separated from one another by a distance D (measured
transverse to the longitudinal axis A-A), thereby defining the
transverse width of the flow channel 147 (see FIG. 5). Thus, the
distance D can also be conceptually considered the transverse width
of the flow channel 147 and may be referred to as such. As
mentioned above, each of the first and second side surfaces 145,
146 have a height H1, thereby defining the height of the flow
channel 147. Thus, at any given location along the longitudinal
axis, the flow channel 147 has a height H1 and a width D which, as
discussed in greater detail above and below, may vary along the
longitudinal length of the flow channel 147. In one embodiment, the
flow channel 147 may have a substantially rectangular transverse
cross-section at the spout outlet 149 in which the width D of the
flow channel 147 is greater than the height H1 of the flow channel
147. In certain embodiments, at the spout outlet 149, the width D
of the flow channel 147 is at least three times greater than the
height H1 of the flow channel 147.
[0063] The flow channel 147 comprises a flared section 152 in which
the transverse distance D between the first and second side
surfaces 145, 146 increases with longitudinal distance from the
spout inlet 148. Thus, the flared section 152 widens and flattens
the flow channel 147 along its length. Thus, when the scented
household liquid 200 flows through the flared section 152 of the
flow channel 147, the stream of the scented household liquid 200
spreads out between the first and second side surfaces 145, 146. As
a result, the exposed surface area of the scented household liquid
200 is increased as the scented household liquid 200 flows through
the flared section 152 of the flow channel 147, thereby increasing
the amount of scent (i.e., fragrance) released during the product
dispensing event.
[0064] The flared section 152 comprises the spout outlet 149. In
the exemplified embodiment of FIGS. 1-5, the flared section 152
extends the entire length of the pouring spout 140 and, thus, also
comprises the spout inlet 148. While the flared section 152 of the
flow channel 147 extends from the spout inlet 148 to the spout
outlet 149 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-5, in certain other
embodiments the flared section 152 may extend only a portion of the
length of the flow channel 147. When the spout fitment 130 is
coupled to the container body 110, the flared section 152 of the
pouring spout 140 is at least partially located within the neck
portion 112 of the container body 110. In certain other
embodiments, such as where the flared section 152 forms only a
portion of the flow channel 147, the flared section 152 may begin
above the top edge 115 of the neck portion 112 of the container
body 110.
[0065] With reference to FIG. 6, in one alternate embodiment, the
pouring spout 140A may be designed such that the flow channel 147
further comprises an inlet section 153 upstream of the flared
section 152. In this embodiment, the inlet section 153 extends from
the spout inlet 148 to a transition point 154. The flared section
152 extends from the transition point 154 to the spout outlet 149.
For the inlet section 153 of the flow channel 147, the transverse
distance D between the first and second side surfaces 145, 146
decreases with longitudinal distance from the spout inlet 148,
thereby forming a waist portion 155 (i.e., a constriction). In
other words, the inlet section 153 of the flow channel 147 has a
transverse width D that decreases with distance from the spout
inlet 148. In other embodiments, the inlet section 153 may have a
substantially constant width D along its length. When incorporated
into the spout fitment 130, which in turn is incorporated into the
container 100 as described above, the scented household liquid 200
flows into the inlet section 153 via the spout inlet 148, and then
flows through the flared section 152 for subsequent dispensing via
the spout outlet 149. Again, as the household scented liquid 200
flows through the flared section 152 of the flow channel 147, the
stream of the scented household liquid 200 spreads out between the
first and second side surfaces 145, 146, thereby increasing the
surface area of the scented household liquid 200 that is exposed
during the product dispensing event. Moreover, in certain
embodiments, the inclusion of a waist portion/constriction 155 may
result in additional amounts of the surface area of the scented
household liquid 200 being exposed in the flared section 152 by
ensuring that some of the scented household liquid 200 flows along
the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 (discussed in greater
detail below).
[0066] Referring now to FIGS. 3-5 concurrently, the transverse
distance D between the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 for
the flared section 152 continually increases along the entirety of
the flared section 152 in a linear manner. As can be seen, each of
the portions of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 that
define the flared section 152 are linear and diverge from the
longitudinal axis A-A with distance from the spout inlet 148. In
certain other embodiments, the flared section 152 may be formed by
making one or both of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146
to have a stepped profile (when viewed from above as shown in FIGS.
3-5). In still other embodiments, such as is shown in FIG. 7, a
pouring spot 140B may be designed so that the portions of each of
the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 that define the flared
section 152 are convexly contoured in the longitudinal direction
and diverge from the longitudinal axis A-A with distance from the
spout inlet 148. In still other embodiments, such as is shown in
FIG. 8, a pouring spot 140C may be designed so that the portions of
each of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 that define the
flared section 152 are convexly contoured in the longitudinal
direction and diverge from the longitudinal axis A-A with distance
from the spout inlet 148. It should be noted that the various
geometries (e.g., linear, stepped, convex, concave, and
combinations thereof) of the flared section 152 discussed above can
be incorporated into the pouring spouts and spout fitments
described in relation to FIGS. 1-6 and 9-29.
[0067] Referring now to FIGS. 9-29, various embodiments of spout
fitments 130D-J are exemplified in which the pouring spouts 140J-D
are provided with topographical features that may increase the
exposed surface area of the scented household liquid 200 and/or
alter the fluid dynamics of the scented household liquid 200 during
the product dispensing event, thereby increasing the amount of
scent released. In one embodiment, the topographical feature, which
may be in the form of a plurality of depressions and/or a plurality
of protuberances, are provided on at least one of the floor surface
144D-J, the first side surface 145D-J, or the second side surface
146D-J. In certain embodiments, each of the floor surface 144D-J,
the first side surface 145D-J, and the second side surface 146D-J
of the pouring spouts 140D-J may be provided with the desired
configuration of the topographical feature(s).
[0068] In the embodiments discussed in greater detail below, the
plurality of protuberances are exemplified as ridges while the
plurality of depressions are exemplified as grooves. The invention,
however, is not so limited in all embodiments. For example, in
certain embodiments, the protuberances may be in the form of,
without limitation, posts, conical nubs, truncated nubs, and
combinations thereof. The depressions may be in the form of,
without limitation, dimples, troughs, valleys, and combinations
thereof. Moreover, while a few embodiments of the spout fitments
130D-J with topographical features are exemplified herein, it is to
be understood that a wide variety of orientations and combinations
of topographical features are envisioned.
[0069] Each of the spout fitments 130D-J can be coupled to the
container body 110 of FIGS. 1-2, as discussed above for the spout
fitment 130, to form a packaged product 1000 according to the
present invention. Thus, it is to be understood that the above
discussion of the spout fitment 130 (and its relation and
incorporation into the container body 110 and the packaged product
1000) is applicable to each of the spout fitments 130D-J.
Therefore, in order to avoid redundancy, only those aspects of the
spout fitments 130D-J that differ from the spout fitment 130 will
be described below. To this end, like structures will be identified
with like reference numerals, with the exception that alphabetical
suffixes "D-J" will be added. It should be noted, however, that
while each of the pouring spouts 140D-J are exemplified as
including a flared section 152D-J, the inclusion of the
topographical features on the pouring spouts 140D-J may, in certain
embodiments, constitute an aspect of the invention without the
existence of a flared section. Thus, in certain embodiments, the
pouring spouts 140D-J of the spout fitments 130D-J may not include
a flared section as discussed above for FIG. 1-6.
[0070] Referring now to FIGS. 9-11 concurrently, a first embodiment
of a spout fitment 130D that includes a pouring spout 140D
including a topographical feature that may increase the amount of
scent released during product dispensing is disclosed. In this
embodiment, the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality
of protuberances, which are in the form of a plurality of
transversely extending ridges 175D. The transversely extending
ridges 175D, in the exemplified embodiment, extend substantially
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A. In other embodiments,
however, the transversely extending ridges 175D may extend
obliquely to the longitudinal axis A-A.
[0071] The transversely extending ridges 175D are longitudinally
spaced apart from one another along the pouring spout 140D so as to
form an undulating surface. While the transversely extending ridges
175D are exemplified as having a rectangular cross-section, the
transversely extending ridges 175D may have other cross-sectional
shapes, such as triangular or semi-oval. In one particular
embodiment, the transversely extending ridges 175D (and the spaces
therebetween) may have cross-sectional shapes such that an
undulating surface is formed, wherein the undulations take the form
of a repetitive pattern of concave valleys and convex peaks. In one
such specific embodiment, the undulations may take on a sinusoidal
configuration so that the spout resembles a traditional washboard.
The transversely extending ridges 175D are substantially parallel
to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may be arranged
in non-parallel arrangements in other embodiments.
[0072] In the exemplified embodiment, the transversely extending
ridges 175D protrude from and extend continuously across each of
the floor surface 144D, the first side surface 145D, and the second
side surface 146D. Thus, each of the first and second side surfaces
145D, 146D and the floor surface 144D can be considered to
comprises a plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D that
protrude into the flow channel 147D. In other embodiments, the
plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D may be omitted from
the first and second side surfaces 145D, 146D such that only the
floor surface 144D may comprise the plurality of transversely
extending ridges 175D, and vice versa.
[0073] The transversely extending ridges 175D are exemplified in
the form of elongated ribs. In other embodiments, the transversely
extending ridges 175D may be in the form successive steps formed
into the pouring spout 140D. Additionally, while the transversely
extending ridges 175D are exemplified as continuous structures, the
transversely extending ridges 175D may be segmented in other
embodiments. In such embodiments, each segment of a transversely
extending ridge 175D may be considered, and referred to as, a
transversely extending ridge. The transversely extending ridges
175D are linear in the exemplified embodiment but may be nonlinear
in other embodiments, such as curved, either convex and/or
concave.
[0074] During a product dispensing event in which the spout fitment
130D is incorporated into the packaged product 1000, the
transversely extending ridges 175D may cause waves or other
irregularities and/or turbulences in the stream of the scented
household product 200 flowing through the flow channel 147. As a
result, an increased amount of scent may be released from the
scented household product 200 during the product dispensing
event.
[0075] Referring now to FIGS. 12-14 concurrently, a second
embodiment of a spout fitment 130E that includes a pouring spout
140E including a topographical feature that may increase the amount
of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed. In this
embodiment, the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality
of protuberances, which are in the form of a plurality of
longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E. In the
exemplified embodiment, each of the plurality of longitudinally
extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E extend the entire length of the
pouring spout 140E from the spout inlet 148E to the spout outlet
149E. In certain embodiments, one or more of the plurality of
longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E may extend less
than the entire length of the pouring spout 140E. The
longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E are transversely
spaced apart from one another.
[0076] The plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E are
located along and protrude from the floor surface 144E of the
pouring spout 140E into the flow channel 147E. The plurality of
longitudinally extending ridges 176E are transversely spaced from
another. While the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges
176E are exemplified as having a rectangular cross-section, the
plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E may have other
cross-sectional shapes, such as triangular or semi-oval. In one
particular embodiment, plurality of longitudinally extending ridges
176E (and the spaces therebetween) may have cross-sectional shapes
such that an undulating surface is formed, wherein the undulations
take the form of a repetitive pattern of concave valleys and convex
peaks. In one such specific embodiment, the undulations may take on
a sinusoidal configuration.
[0077] The plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E
diverge from one another with longitudinal distance from the spout
inlet 148E. More specifically, the plurality of longitudinally
extending ridges 176E diverge from one another along the flared
section 152E of the flow channel 147. Thus, the plurality of
longitudinally extending ridges 176E may not only assist with
creating waves and/or irregularities in the stream of the scented
household liquid 200 during a product dispensing event, but may
also assist with spreading/widening the stream of the scented
household liquid 200 as it flows through the flared section 152E,
thereby ensuring an increase in the exposed surface area of the
scented household liquid 200. The plurality of longitudinally
extending ridges 176E may also assist with separating the product
flow into isolated streams and preventing surface tension of the
scented household liquid 200 from causing the product flow to
converge.
[0078] In certain embodiments, the plurality of longitudinally
extending ridges 176E may be arranged symmetrically about the
longitudinal axis A-A so as to intersect each other along the
longitudinal axis A-A to form consecutively nesting V-shaped
ridges. In other embodiments, however, the plurality of
longitudinally extending ridges 176E may extend substantially
parallel to one another and/or substantially parallel to the
longitudinal axis A-A.
[0079] The plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 177E are
located along and protrude from the first side surface 145E of the
pouring spout 140E into the flow channel 147E. The plurality of
longitudinally extending ridges 177E extend substantially parallel
to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may extend
non-parallel to one another in other embodiments. The plurality of
longitudinally extending ridges 178E are located along and protrude
from the second side surface 146E of the pouring spout 140E into
the flow channel 147E. The plurality of longitudinally extending
ridges 178E extend substantially parallel to one another in the
exemplified embodiment, but may extend non-parallel to one another
in other embodiments.
[0080] The plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 177E, 178E
may further assist with increasing the amount of scent released
from the scented household liquid 200 during a product dispensing
event by directing and maintaining a portion of the flow of the
scented household liquid 200 along the first and second side
surfaces 145E, 146E. As a result, the scented household liquid 200
may coat the floor surface 144E, the first side surface 145E, and
the second side surface 146E during a product dispensing event. The
existence of the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 177E,
178E along the first and second side surfaces 145E, 146E may be
particularly useful in embodiments in which the plurality of
longitudinally extending ridges 177E, 178E are located along a
flared section 152E of the flow channel 147E. In such an
embodiment, because the width D of the flow channel 147E is
narrowed at the entry point of the flared section 152E (compared to
the remainder of the flared section 152E), the depth of the stream
of the scented household product 200 will be elevated at the entry
point, allowing the scented household product 200 to ride up along
the first and second side surfaces 145E, 146E. As the scented
household product 200 flows down the flared section 152E, it widens
out and becomes shallower. However, some of the scented household
product 200 that rode up along the first and second side surfaces
145E, 146E at the entry point will be carried down the first and
second side surfaces 145E, 146E pouring spout 140E along the
plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 177E, 178E.
[0081] In the exemplified embodiments, each of the floor surface
144E, the first side surface 145E, and the second side surface 146E
comprise the longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E. In
other embodiments, the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges
177E, 178E may be omitted from the first and second side surfaces
145E, 146E such that only the floor surface 144E may comprise the
plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E. In other
embodiments, the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E
may be omitted from the floor surface 144E such that only the first
and second side surfaces 145E, 146E comprise the plurality of
longitudinally extending ridges 177E, 178E.
[0082] The longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E are
exemplified in the form of elongated ribs. In other embodiments,
the transversely extending ridges 175D may be in the form of steps
formed into the pouring spout 140E. Additionally, while the
longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E are exemplified as
continuous structures, the longitudinally extending ridges 176E,
177E, 178E may be segmented in other embodiments. In such
embodiments, a segment of the longitudinally extending ridges 176E,
177E, 178E may be considered and referred to as a longitudinally
extending ridge in of itself.
[0083] Referring now to FIGS. 15-17 concurrently, a third
embodiment of a spout fitment 130F that includes a pouring spout
140F having a topographical feature that may increase the amount of
scent released during product dispensing is disclosed. In this
embodiment, the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality
of protuberances, which include a combination of the plurality of
transversely extending ridges 175D (discussed above in relation to
FIGS. 9-11) and the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges
176E, 177E, 178E (discussed above in relation to FIGS. 12-14). It
is to be understood that the above discussions regarding the
details of the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D and
the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E
are applicable to the exemplified embodiment of FIGS. 15-17.
[0084] The pouring spout 140F of the spout fitment 130F comprises
both the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D, which are
in segmented form, and the plurality of longitudinally extending
ridges 176E, 177E, 178E. Thus, the floor surface 144F comprises
both the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E and
segments of the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D
(which can be considered transversely extending ridges). The first
side surface 145F comprises both the plurality of longitudinally
extending ridges 177E and segments of the plurality of transversely
extending ridges 175D (which can be considered transversely
extending ridges). The second side surface 146F comprises both the
plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 178E and segments of
the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D (which can be
considered transversely extending ridges).
[0085] The plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D are
segmented such that the plurality of transversely extending ridges
175D do not intersect with any of the plurality of longitudinally
extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E. Rather, the plurality of
transversely extending ridges 175D and the plurality of
longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E form a
non-intersecting grid arrangement. In certain other embodiments,
the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D may intersect
with the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E,
178E to form an intersecting grid arrangement.
[0086] Referring now to FIGS. 18-20 concurrently, a fourth
embodiment of a spout fitment 130G that includes a pouring spout
140G including a topographical feature that may increase the amount
of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed. In this
embodiment, the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality
of depressions, which are in the form of a plurality of
transversely extending grooves 185G. The transversely extending
grooves 185G, in the exemplified embodiment, extend substantially
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A. In other embodiments,
however, the transversely extending grooves 185G may extend
obliquely to the longitudinal axis A-A.
[0087] The transversely extending grooves 185G are longitudinally
spaced apart from one another along the pouring spout 140G. The
transversely extending grooves 185G are substantially parallel to
one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may be arranged in
non-parallel arrangements in other embodiments.
[0088] In the exemplified embodiment, the transversely extending
grooves 185G are formed in and extend continuously across each of
the floor surface 144G, the first side surface 145G, and the second
side surface 146G. Thus, each of the first and second side surfaces
145G, 146G and the floor surface 144G can be considered to
comprises a plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G. In
other embodiments, the plurality of transversely extending grooves
185G may be omitted from the first and second side surfaces 145G,
146G such that only the floor surface 144G may comprise the
plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G, and vice
versa.
[0089] The transversely extending grooves 185G are exemplified in
the form of elongated V-shaped channels. In other embodiments, the
transversely extending grooves 185G may have different sectional
shapes, such as rectangular or semi-oval. In one particular
embodiment, the transversely extending grooves 185G (and the peaks
therebetween) may have cross-sectional shapes such that an
undulating surface is formed, wherein the undulations take the form
of a repetitive pattern of concave valleys and convex peaks. In one
such specific embodiment, the undulations may take on a sinusoidal
configuration so that the spout resembles a traditional
washboard.
[0090] Additionally, while the transversely extending grooves 185G
are exemplified as continuous trenches, the transversely extending
grooves 185G may be segmented in other embodiments. The
transversely extending grooves 185G are linear in the exemplified
embodiment but may be nonlinear in other embodiments, such as
curved, either convex and/or concave.
[0091] During a product dispensing event in which the spout fitment
130G is incorporated into the packaged product 1000, the
transversely extending grooves 185G may cause waves or other
irregularities and/or turbulences in the stream of the scented
household product 200 flowing through the flow channel 147G. As a
result, an increased amount of scent may be released from the
scented household product 200 during the product dispensing
event.
[0092] Referring now to FIGS. 21-23 concurrently, a fifth
embodiment of a spout fitment 130H that includes a pouring spout
140H including a topographical feature that may increase the amount
of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed. In this
embodiment, the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality
of depressions, which are in the form of a plurality of
longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H. In the
exemplified embodiment, each of the plurality of longitudinally
extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H extend the entire length of the
pouring spout 140H from the spout inlet 148H to the spout outlet
149H. In certain embodiments, one or more of the plurality of
longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H may extend less
than the entire length of the pouring spout 140H. The
longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H are transversely
spaced apart from one another.
[0093] The plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H are
located along and formed into the floor surface 144H of the pouring
spout 140H. The plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H
are transversely spaced from another. The plurality of
longitudinally extending grooves 186H diverge from one another with
longitudinal distance from the spout inlet 148H. More specifically,
the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H diverge from
one another along the flared section 152H of the flow channel 147H.
Thus, the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H may
not only assist with creating waves and/or irregularities in the
stream of the scented household liquid 200 during a product
dispensing event, but may also assist with spreading/widening the
stream of the scented household liquid 200 as it flows through the
flared section 152H, thereby ensuring an increase in the exposed
surface area of the scented household liquid 200. In certain
embodiments, the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H
may be arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal axis A-A so as
to intersect each other along the longitudinal axis A-A to form
consecutively nesting V-shaped grooves. In other embodiments,
however, the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H may
extend substantially parallel to one another and/or substantially
parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A.
[0094] The plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 187H are
located along and formed into the first side surface 145H of the
pouring spout 140H. The plurality of longitudinally extending
grooves 187H extend substantially parallel to one another in the
exemplified embodiment, but may extend non-parallel to one another
in other embodiments. The plurality of longitudinally extending
grooves 188H are located along and formed into the second side
surface 146H of the pouring spout 140H. The plurality of
longitudinally extending grooves 188H extend substantially parallel
to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may extend
non-parallel to one another in other embodiments.
[0095] The plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 187H, 188H
may further assist with increasing the amount of scent released
from the scented household liquid 200 during a product dispensing
event by directing a portion of the flow of the scented household
liquid 200 along the first and second side surfaces 145H, 146H. As
a result, the scented household liquid 200 may coat the floor
surface 144H, the first side surface 145H, and the second side
surface 146H during a product dispensing event. The existence of
the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 187H, 188H along
the first and second side surfaces 145H, 146H may be particularly
useful in embodiments in which the plurality of longitudinally
extending grooves 187H, 188H are located along a flared section
152H of the flow channel 147H. In such an embodiment, because the
width D of the flow channel 147HH is narrowed at the entry point of
the flared section 152H (compared to the remainder of the flared
section 152H), the depth of the stream of the scented household
product 200 will be elevated at the entry point, allowing the
scented household product 200 to ride up along the first and second
side surfaces 145H, 146H. As the scented household product 200
flows down the flared section 152H, widening out and becoming
shallower, some of the scented household product 200 that rode up
along the first and second side surfaces 145H, 146H will carried
down the pouring spout 140H along the plurality of longitudinally
extending grooves 187H, 188H.
[0096] In the exemplified embodiments, each of the floor surface
144H, the first side surface 145H, and the second side surface 146H
comprise the longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H. In
other embodiments, the plurality of longitudinally extending
grooves 187H, 188H may be omitted from the first and second side
surfaces 145H, 146H such that only the floor surface 144H may
comprise the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H. In
other embodiments, the plurality of longitudinally extending
grooves 186H may be omitted from the floor surface 144H such that
only the first and second side surfaces 145H, 146H comprise the
plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 187H, 188H.
[0097] The longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H are
exemplified in the form of elongated V-shaped channels. In other
embodiments, the longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H
may have different sectional shapes, such as rectangular or
semi-oval. In one particular embodiment, the longitudinally
extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H (and the peaks therebetween) may
have cross-sectional shapes such that an undulating surface is
formed, wherein the undulations take the form of a repetitive
pattern of concave valleys and convex peaks. In one such specific
embodiment, the undulations may take on a sinusoidal
configuration.
[0098] Additionally, while the longitudinally extending grooves
186H, 187H, 188H are exemplified as continuous trenches, the
longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H may be segmented
in other embodiments. The longitudinally extending grooves 186H,
187H, 188H are linear in the exemplified embodiment but may be
nonlinear in other embodiments, such as curved, either convex
and/or concave.
[0099] Referring now to FIGS. 24-26 concurrently, a sixth
embodiment of a spout fitment 130I that includes a pouring spout
140I including a topographical feature that may increase the amount
of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed. In this
embodiment, the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality
of protuberances and a plurality of depressions. The plurality of
protuberances are in the form of a plurality of transversely
extending ridges 175D (discussed above in relation to FIGS. 9-11)
and the plurality of depressions are in the form of a plurality of
longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H (discussed above
in relation to FIGS. 21-23). It is to be understood that the above
discussions regarding the details of the plurality of transversely
extending ridges 175D and the plurality of longitudinally extending
grooves 186H, 187H, 188I are applicable to the exemplified
embodiment of FIGS. 24-26.
[0100] The pouring spout 140I of the spout fitment 130I comprises
both the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D, which are
in segmented form, and the plurality of longitudinally extending
grooves 186H, 187H, 188H. Thus, the floor surface 144I comprises
both the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H and
segments of the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D
(which can be considered transversely extending ridges). The first
side surface 145I comprises both the plurality of longitudinally
extending ridges 187H and segments of the plurality of transversely
extending ridges 175D (which can be considered transversely
extending ridges). The second side surface 146I comprises both the
plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 188H and segments of
the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D (which can be
considered transversely extending ridges).
[0101] The plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D are
segmented such that the plurality of transversely extending ridges
175D do not intersect with any of the plurality of longitudinally
extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H. Rather, the plurality of
transversely extending ridges 175D and the plurality of
longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H to form a
non-intersecting grid arrangement. In certain other embodiments,
the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D may intersect
with the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H,
188H to form an intersecting grid arrangement.
[0102] Referring now to FIGS. 27-29 concurrently, a seventh
embodiment of a spout fitment 130J that includes a pouring spout
140J including a topographical feature that may increase the amount
of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed. In this
embodiment, the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality
of protuberances and a plurality of depressions. The plurality of
protuberances are in the form of the plurality of longitudinally
extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E (discussed above in relation to
FIGS. 12-14) and the plurality of depressions are in the form of
the plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G (discussed
above in relation to FIGS. 18-20). It is to be understood that the
above discussions regarding the details of the plurality of
longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E and the plurality
of transversely extending grooves 185G are applicable to the
exemplified embodiment of FIGS. 27-29.
[0103] The pouring spout 140J of the spout fitment 130J comprises
both the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E,
178E and the plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G
(which are in segmented form). Thus, the floor surface 144J
comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges
176E and segments of the plurality of transversely extending
grooves 185G (which can be considered transversely extending
grooves). The first side surface 145J comprises both the plurality
of longitudinally extending ridges 177E and segments of the
plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G (which can be
considered transversely extending grooves). The second side surface
146J comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extending
ridges 178E and segments of the plurality of transversely extending
grooves 185G (which can be considered transversely extending
grooves).
[0104] The plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G are
segmented such that the plurality of transversely extending grooves
185G do not intersect with any of the plurality of longitudinally
extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E. Rather, the plurality of
transversely extending grooves 185G and the plurality of
longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E to form a
non-intersecting grid arrangement. In certain other embodiments,
the plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G may intersect
with the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E,
178E to form an intersecting grid arrangement.
[0105] As mentioned above, the exact structural manifestation and
arrangement of the topographical feature(s) on the pouring spout to
increase scent release can be varied widely in accordance with the
present invention. For example, in one non-illustrated embodiment,
the topographical feature may consist of a roughened surface
comprising surface irregularities. In still another non-illustrated
embodiment, both longitudinally extending grooves and
longitudinally extending ridges may be combined.
[0106] While not shown, in some embodiments, a porous element may
be included around the spout fitment 130. The porous element is
suitable for retaining a quantity of the scented household liquid
200. The porous element captures, or becomes infused with, the
scented household liquid 200 and its fragrance either by simple
contact with the scented household liquid 200 or by capillary
action as a result of coming into contact with the scented
household liquid 200. A potential purchaser is thus able to
determine accurately the fragrance of the scented household liquid
200 prior to purchasing the container 100. In addition, throughout
the working lifetime of the container 100, i.e. while some of the
scented household liquid 200 remains in the container 100 and a
user repeatedly dispense some of the scented household liquid 200,
the user is able to sniff the opening 114 to determine accurately
the fragrance of the scented household liquid 200.
[0107] While the invention has been described with respect to
specific examples including presently preferred modes of carrying
out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that
there are numerous variations and permutations of the above
described systems and techniques. It is to be understood that other
embodiments may be utilized and structural and functional
modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the
present invention. Thus, the spirit and scope of the invention
should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended
claims.
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