DISPENSING CLOSURE

Abstract

A dispensing closure includes a closure body defining a dispensing aperture, an openable lid which cooperates with the closure body for enabling access to the dispensing aperture. The openable lid defines a first dispensing portion and a second dispensing portion. The first openable flap cooperates with the openable lid for enabling access to the first dispensing portion. The second openable flap cooperates with the openable lid for enabling access to the second dispensing portion. The dispensing closure is constructed and arranged for use with a container which contains a particulate material for the dispensing of some or all of that particulate material.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of PCT/US2015/041358 filed Jul. 21, 2015, which claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 62/027,828 filed Jul. 23, 2014, which are hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

The present invention, as represented by the disclosed exemplary embodiments, relates generally to dispensing closures for dispensing particulate matter from a container, the particulate matter including powders. More specifically, the present invention, as represented by the disclosed exemplary embodiments, relates to such dispensing closures with hinged, reclosable flaps. Typical of prior art constructions for dispensing closures for particulate matter is the presence of a larger dispensing aperture in combination with a pattern of smaller dispensing apertures. The intended utilization is to use the smaller dispensing apertures for shaking particulate matter from the container when the intended amount to be dispensed is less and when it may need to be somewhat evenly distributed. The larger dispensing aperture allows for spooning or scooping out particulate matter from within the container or for using the larger aperture as a type of pour spout.

What is also typical of prior art constructions is the use of a molded plastic design joining the reclosable flaps to their supporting base structure by means of a living hinge. The user then selectively opens one of the two flaps depending on the desired or selected manner of dispensing the particulate matter, either by shaking (using the smaller apertures) or by spooning, scooping or pouring (using the larger aperture).

In one style of prior art construction, the larger aperture and the plurality of smaller apertures are essentially coplanar. In another style of prior art construction, the larger aperture and the plurality of smaller apertures are axially stacked such that lifting or opening a hinged flap associated with the plurality of smaller apertures exposes or opens the larger aperture.

In one style of prior art construction two single apertures (larger and spaced apart) are arranged in a generally coplanar manner with a plurality of smaller apertures. The coplanar arrangement of these apertures requires a greater surface area and is typically used with a container having a generally rectangular shape in lateral section, similar to what may be seen in association with certain spices. The “greater surface area” reference is in comparison to a generally circular or cylindrical closure body where the apertures are able to be arranged in an axial stack or overlapping manner. In view of the limited capabilities offered by the prior art constructions, there is a need for improvement in this field in terms of greater versatility.

SUMMARY

A dispensing closure for a container is provided with a plurality of dispensing options based on different openings and apertures which may be accessed selectively by the user. One of the features of the exemplary embodiments which is not shown by the prior art is the use of two patterns of smaller apertures for shaking out particulate matter which are provided in combination with a single, larger aperture for spooning out or scooping or pouring out the particulate matter stored in the container. This expanded capability which is part of the disclosed embodiments provides an improvement in terms of versatility. The two patterns of smaller apertures, likely to be used for shaking out the particulate matter, include a first pattern with a first size of apertures and a second pattern where its corresponding apertures are larger than the first size of apertures. Having different aperture sizes for these two sets of apertures is preferred, but the apertures of each set of apertures could be of the same size. The three primary dispensing options provided by the present invention, as represented by the disclosed exemplary embodiments, is a unique and unobvious improvement to the current state of the art for this type of dispensing closure.

The present invention, as represented by the disclosed exemplary embodiments, provides a more compact construction compared to a rectangular lid construction where the three openings or opening patterns are generally coplanar. Arranging these three dispensing options in a coplanar manner necessitates a larger base size or surface area than what is required for the present invention due to the axial layering or overlapping of multiple lids and/or lid flaps of the present invention. Even with this more compact construction, the dispensing closure which is described herein is able to be fabricated, preferably by molding, as a unitary, single-piece plastic component. While a unitary, single-piece plastic construction is preferred, it is possible to fabricate the individual portions as separate pieces and then snap those pieces together, using the “snap-together” construction as the hinge locations for the two top flaps and the hinge location for the inner lid. These individual portions of the unitary, single-piece construction are described herein.

Further forms, objects, features, aspects, benefits, advantages, and embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from a detailed description and drawings provided herewith.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view a dispensing closure according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure.

FIG. 3 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure.

FIG. 4 is a left side elevational view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure.

FIG. 5 is a right side elevational view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure.

FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure.

FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure.

FIG. 7A is a bottom plan view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure with a plurality of seal rings.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure with one openable flap in a hinged open condition.

FIG. 9 is a front elevational view of the FIG. 8 dispensing closure.

FIG. 10 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 8 dispensing closure.

FIG. 11 is a left side elevational view of the FIG. 8 dispensing closure.

FIG. 12 is a right side elevational view of the FIG. 8 dispensing closure.

FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the FIG. 8 dispensing closure.

FIG. 14 is a bottom plan view of the FIG. 8 dispensing closure.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure with another openable flap in a hinged open condition.

FIG. 16 is a front elevational view of the FIG. 15 dispensing closure.

FIG. 17 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 15 dispensing closure.

FIG. 18 is a left side elevational view of the FIG. 15 dispensing closure.

FIG. 19 is a right side elevational view of the FIG. 15 dispensing closure.

FIG. 20 is a top plan view of the FIG. 15 dispensing closure.

FIG. 21 is a bottom plan view of the FIG. 15 dispensing closure.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure with a hinged inner lid in an open condition.

FIG. 23 is a front elevational view of the FIG. 22 dispensing closure.

FIG. 24 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 22 dispensing closure.

FIG. 25 is a left side elevational view of the FIG. 22 dispensing closure.

FIG. 26 is a right side elevational view of the FIG. 22 dispensing closure.

FIG. 27 is a top plan view of the FIG. 22 dispensing closure.

FIG. 28 is a bottom plan view of the FIG. 22 dispensing closure.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure with both flaps in a hinged open condition.

FIG. 30 is a front elevational view of the FIG. 29 dispensing closure.

FIG. 31 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 29 dispensing closure.

FIG. 32 is a left side elevational view of the FIG. 29 dispensing closure.

FIG. 33 is a right side elevational view of the FIG. 29 dispensing closure.

FIG. 34 is a top plan view of the FIG. 29 dispensing closure.

FIG. 35 is a bottom plan view of the FIG. 29 dispensing closure.

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure with both flaps and the inner lid in a hinged open condition.

FIG. 37 is a front elevational view of the FIG. 36 dispensing closure.

FIG. 38 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 36 dispensing closure.

FIG. 39 is a left side elevational view of the FIG. 36 dispensing closure.

FIG. 40 is a right side elevational view of the FIG. 36 dispensing closure.

FIG. 41 is a top plan view of the FIG. 36 dispensing closure.

FIG. 42 is a bottom plan view of the FIG. 36 dispensing closure.

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure with selected portions in broken line form to depict the option of design variations.

FIG. 44 is a front elevational view of the FIG. 43 dispensing closure.

FIG. 45 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 43 dispensing closure.

FIG. 46 is a left side elevational view of the FIG. 43 dispensing closure.

FIG. 47 is a right side elevational view of the FIG. 43 dispensing closure.

FIG. 48 is a top plan view of the FIG. 43 dispensing closure.

FIG. 49 is a bottom plan view of the FIG. 43 dispensing closure.

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of the FIG. 43 dispensing closure with one openable flap in a hinged open condition.

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of the FIG. 43 dispensing closure with another openable flap in a hinged open condition.

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of the FIG. 43 dispensing closure with a hinged inner lid in an open condition.

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure with selected portions in broken line form to depict the option of design variations.

FIG. 54 is a front elevational view of the FIG. 53 dispensing closure.

FIG. 55 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 53 dispensing closure.

FIG. 56 is a left side elevational view of the FIG. 53 dispensing closure.

FIG. 57 is a right side elevational view of the FIG. 53 dispensing closure.

FIG. 58 is a top plan view of the FIG. 53 dispensing closure.

FIG. 59 is a bottom plan view of the FIG. 53 dispensing closure.

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of the FIG. 53 dispensing closure with one openable flap in a hinged open condition.

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of the FIG. 53 dispensing closure with another openable flap in a hinged open condition.

FIG. 62 is a perspective view of the FIG. 53 dispensing closure with a hinged inner lid in an open condition.

FIG. 63 is a perspective view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure with selected portions in broken line form to depict the option of design variations.

FIG. 64 is a front elevational view of the FIG. 63 dispensing closure.

FIG. 65 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 63 dispensing closure.

FIG. 66 is a left side elevational view of the FIG. 63 dispensing closure.

FIG. 67 is a right side elevational view of the FIG. 63 dispensing closure.

FIG. 68 is a top plan view of the FIG. 63 dispensing closure.

FIG. 69 is a bottom plan view of the FIG. 63 dispensing closure.

FIG. 70 is a perspective view of the FIG. 63 dispensing closure with one openable flap in a hinged open condition.

FIG. 71 is a perspective view of the FIG. 63 dispensing closure with another openable flap in a hinged open condition.

FIG. 72 is a perspective view of the FIG. 63 dispensing closure with a hinged inner lid in an open condition.

FIG. 73 is a perspective view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure with selected portions in broken line form to depict the option of design variations.

FIG. 74 is a front elevational view of the FIG. 73 dispensing closure.

FIG. 75 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 73 dispensing closure.

FIG. 76 is a left side elevational view of the FIG. 73 dispensing closure.

FIG. 77 is a right side elevational view of the FIG. 73 dispensing closure.

FIG. 78 is a top plan view of the FIG. 73 dispensing closure.

FIG. 79 is a bottom plan view of the FIG. 73 dispensing closure.

FIG. 80 is a perspective view of the FIG. 73 dispensing closure with one openable flap in a hinged open condition.

FIG. 81 is a perspective view of the FIG. 73 dispensing closure with another openable flap in a hinged open condition.

FIG. 82 is a perspective view of the FIG. 73 dispensing closure with a hinged inner lid in an open condition.

FIG. 83 is a perspective view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure with selected portions in broken line form to depict the option of design variations.

FIG. 84 is a front elevational view of the FIG. 83 dispensing closure.

FIG. 85 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 83 dispensing closure.

FIG. 86 is a left side elevational view of the FIG. 83 dispensing closure.

FIG. 87 is a right side elevational view of the FIG. 83 dispensing closure.

FIG. 88 is a top plan view of the FIG. 83 dispensing closure.

FIG. 89 is a bottom plan view of the FIG. 83 dispensing closure.

FIG. 90 is a perspective view of the FIG. 83 dispensing closure with one openable flap in a hinged open condition.

FIG. 91 is a perspective view of the FIG. 83 dispensing closure with another openable flap in a hinged open condition.

FIG. 92 is a perspective view of the FIG. 83 dispensing closure with a hinged inner lid in an open condition.

FIG. 93 is a perspective view of the FIG. 1 dispensing closure with selected portions in broken line form to depict the option of design variations.

FIG. 94 is a bottom plan view of the FIG. 93 dispensing closure.

DESCRIPTION OF THE SELECTED EMBODIMENTS

For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the described embodiments, and any further applications of the principles of the invention as described herein are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates. One embodiment of the invention is shown in great detail, although it will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that some features that are not relevant to the present invention may not be shown for the sake of clarity.

Referring to FIGS. 1-7, there is illustrated a dispensing closure 20 for use in conjunction with a container of some type (not illustrated) for dispensing particulate material or matter which is stored or received within the container. The reference to particulate matter or particulate material is intended to include particles of various sizes and compositions and is intended to include powders which are simply finer particulates. One use of dispensing closure 20 would be for dispensing a spice from within the container to another location, such as to food being prepared and/or food being served. In the preferred or exemplary embodiment, the closure 20 is injection molded from a plastic material and essentially any plastic which would be suitable for an injection molding process is acceptable. In terms of a preference for the exemplary embodiment, one acceptable choice is the use of polypropylene. While closure 20 is described and illustrated herein as a unitary, single-piece component, it is contemplated that the inner lid and the two flaps could each be fabricated as separate components and then snapped together using a snap mechanism or arrangement as the point of hinging for the inner lid to the closure body and as the point of hinging for each of the two flaps to the inner lid.

The unitary construction of closure 20 includes a closure body 22 which is preferably generally cylindrical, but is not limited or restricted to that shape. For example, if the closure is to be applied to the container (actually to the neck opening or dispensing opening of the container) by a snap-on or press-on or press-in construction, then the shape of body 22 must be designed accordingly based on the container shape requirements. The generally cylindrical shape is one which would correspond to a threaded assembly of the closure to the neck of the container, though any variety of container shapes and closure shapes are contemplated as part of the exemplary embodiment. In this exemplary embodiment the inside surface 22a of the closure body is configured with threads 22b for threaded engagement with an externally threaded neck of the selected container, when that type of assembly is selected based on the container choice. It is contemplated though that closure 20 could be snapped onto or into the neck or opening of the container and this would provide for virtually any type of container and closure shapes.

The unitary construction of closure 20 further includes an inner lid 24, a first flap 26 and a second flap 28. The inner lid 24 which is substantially circular, is hinged to the closure body 22 at a hinge location by means of living hinge 30. As such, the inner lid 22 is openable and cooperates with the closure body 22 for enabling access to the particulate matter which is received within the container. The closed inner lid 24 is secured to the closure body 22 in the closed condition by means of an interference fit at the location of the finger detent 34 between two structural portions which allow the inner lid to snap closed to the closure body 22. Included as part of the closure body 22 and inner lid 24 arrangement is the finger detent 34 which creates a clearance space 36 for the user to insert a fingernail or thumbnail or other utensil as but some of the options for access to and release of the snap-fit (interference fit) arrangement between the inner lid 24 and the closure body 22.

The inner surface 82 of inner lid 24 preferably includes a plurality of seal rings 24a as is illustrated in FIG. 7A. Sealing rings 24a are only shown in FIG. 7A as one further option for dispensing closure 20. While likely to be included in any of the disclosed exemplary embodiments, these sealing rings 24a are not illustrated in any other views simply for drawing clarity and to focus on the other structural portions of dispensing closure 20, including the other embodiments of FIGS. 43-94.

When a liner is to be used for sealing off the neck opening of the container which is associated with dispensing closure 20, that liner may be supplied with the dispensing closure 20 for handling and shipping convenience and efficiency. It is contemplated that a suitable liner for the type of container and type of particulate matter will be shipped with a corresponding dispensing closure, free floating within the body of that dispensing closure. In the course of completing the packaging of the particulate matter, the liner is applied over the neck opening of the container by the packer.

The first flap 26 is hinged to the inner lid 24 by living hinge 38. Accordingly, the first flap 26 is openable and cooperates with the inner lid 24 for enabling access to the particulate matter within the container. The closed first flap 26 is secured to the inner lid 24 (in this closed condition) by means of an interference fit (snap fit) similar in concept to the snap-fit arrangement between inner lid 24 and closure body 22. This interference fit is located adjacent the upper edge of finger detent 42. Included as a part of the inner lid 24 and first flap 26 arrangement is the finger detent 42 which creates a clearance space 44 for the user to insert a fingernail or a thumbnail or other utensil as but some of the options for access to and release of the snap-fit (interference fit) arrangement between the first flap 26 and the inner lid 24. The first flap 26 has a substantially uniform thickness throughout, excluding the hinge 38, for achieving the desired fit into the upper surface 54 of the inner lid 24 as will be described.

The second flap 28 is hinged to the inner lid 24 by living hinge 46. Accordingly, the second flap 28 is openable and cooperates with the inner lid 24 for enabling access to the particulate matter within the container. The closed second flap 28 is secured to the inner lid 24 (in this closed condition) by means of an interference fit (snap fit) similar in concept to the snap-fit arrangement between inner lid 24 and closure body 22. This interference fit is located adjacent the upper edge of finger detent 50. Included as a part of the inner lid 24 and second flap 28 arrangement is the finger detent 50 which creates a clearance space 52 for the user to insert a fingernail or a thumbnail or other utensil as but some of the options for access to and release of the snap-fit (interference fit) arrangement between the second flap 28 and the inner lid 24. The second flap 28 has a substantially uniform thickness throughout, excluding the hinge 46, for achieving the desired fit into the upper surface of the inner lid 24 as will be described.

The upper surface 54 of the inner lid 24 includes a first recessed region 56 which has a substantially uniform recessed depth and a peripheral shape which substantially corresponds to the peripheral shape of the first flap 26 (see FIG. 8). In sizing the peripheral shape of region 56 it is important to ensure that the first flap 26 fits in the region 56 without any edge-to-edge interference or mismatch. Correspondingly, the axial depth of region 56 should be at least equal to the thickness of the first flap 26 so that the upper surface 58 of first flap 26 is preferably flush with upper surface 54 and if not flush, only slightly recessed or slightly raised.

The upper surface 54 of the inner lid 24 includes a second recessed region 60 which has a substantially uniform recessed depth and a peripheral shape which substantially corresponds to the peripheral shape of the second flap 28 (see FIG. 15). In sizing the peripheral shape of region 60, it is important to ensure that the second flap 28 fits in the region 60 without any edge-to-edge interference or mismatch. Correspondingly, the axial depth of region 60 should be at least equal to the thickness of the second flap 28 so that the upper surface 62 of second flap 28 is preferably flush with upper surface 54 and if not flush, only slightly recessed or slightly raised.

Region 56 defines a spaced pattern 64 of dispensing apertures 66. In the exemplary embodiment, there are a total of nine apertures 66 spaced apart and of substantially uniform size and generally equal spacing. In the exemplary embodiment, each aperture is substantially circular with a diameter of approximately 0.12 inches. Dispensing apertures 66 extend completely through inner lid 24 and are constructed and arranged to be used for shaking out at least some of the particulate matter which is in the container when the first flap 26 has been hinged open as illustrated in FIGS. 8-14.

The number of apertures 66, the size of the apertures 66 and whether all apertures 66 have substantially the same diameter are all design variables. While the preferred embodiment is described based on the exemplary drawings, it is contemplated that the design specifics can change based on the particulate matter to be dispensed from the container, its range of particle sizes, the rate of dispensing desired and product aesthetics. The exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes projections 68 (see FIG. 8) for plugging closed each aperture 66. A circular/cylindrical shape for the apertures 66 and for the projections 68 was selected as being a suitable design for the exemplary embodiment. Each projection 68 (equal in number to the number of apertures 66) has a peripheral size and shape which is suitable to pivot into and plug its corresponding aperture 66 as the first flap 26 is hinged closed. As would be understood, the specific pattern for the projections 68 is the same as the pattern for the apertures 66.

Region 60 defines a spaced pattern 70 of dispensing apertures 72. In the exemplary embodiment, there are a total of three apertures 72 spaced apart and of substantially uniform size and generally equal spacing. In the exemplary embodiment each aperture is circular with a diameter of approximately 0.30 inches. Dispensing apertures 72 extend completely through inner lid 24 and are constructed and arranged to be used for shaking out at least some of the particulate matter which is in the container when the second flap 28 has been hinged open as illustrated in FIGS. 15-21.

The number of apertures 72, the size of the apertures 72 and whether all apertures 72 have substantially the same diameter are all design variables. While the preferred embodiment is described based on the exemplary drawings, it is contemplated that the design specifics can change based on the particulate matter to be dispensed, its range of particle sizes, the rate of dispensing desired and product aesthetics. The exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes projections 74 (see FIG. 15) for plugging closed each aperture 72. A circular/cylindrical shape for the apertures 72 and for the projections 74 was selected as being a suitable design for the exemplary embodiment. Each projection 74 (equal in number to the number of apertures 72) has a peripheral size and shape which is suitable to pivot into and plug its corresponding aperture 72 as the second flap 28 is hinged closed. As would be understood, the specific pattern for the projections 74 is the same as the pattern for the apertures 72.

FIGS. 1-7 illustrate the dispensing closure 20 in a closed condition, with the inner lid 24 snapped (interference fit) closed to the closure body 22, with the first flap 26 snapped (interference fit) closed and with the second flap 28 snap (interference fit) closed. FIGS. 8-14 illustrate the dispensing closure 20 in a first mode of use with the first flap 26 hinged open for dispensing particulate matter, typically by shaking. FIGS. 15-21 illustrate the dispensing closure 20 in a second mode of use with the second flap 28 hinged open for dispensing particulate matter, typically by shaking.

FIGS. 22-28 illustrate the dispensing closure 20 in a third mode of use with the first and second flaps 26 and 28, respectively, closed and the inner lid 24 hinged open. This mode would likely be selected when scooping out or spooning out or pouring out particulate matter and a larger opening is desired for the selected utensil (scoop or spoon) or preferable for pouring out. As illustrated, the closure body 22 defines a central opening 76 which is encircled by inner annular lip 78. This inner annular lip 78 is inset slightly from the outer wall 80 of closure body 22 and is used as part of a sealed interface with an inner annular rim 84 of lid 24 for sealing closed the particulate matter stored within the container based on the use of dispensing closure 20 in combination with that container. In a cooperating and compatible manner, the inner surface 82 of the inner lid 24 includes the annular rim 84 which in the exemplary embodiment is substantially circular. This annular rim 84 is sized and arranged so as to have an essentially line-to-line fit against the inner edge 86 of annular lip 78. As the inner lid 24 closes against the closure body 22, the annular rim 84 fits down inside of annular lip 78 so as to create a sealed interface between the inner lid 24 and the closure body 22 for preserving the particulate matter. This helps to keep the contents of the container (the particulate matter) fresh and helps to prevent any unintended contamination.

FIGS. 29-35 illustrate the dispensing closure 20 in a fourth mode of use with both the first flap 26 and the second flap 28 hinged open. While this fourth mode of use is not considered to be as likely as any one of the first three modes of use, it is an option. This fourth mode would likely be selected when it is desired to dispense the particulate matter by shaking, but where a relatively large amount of particulate matter is to be dispensed, and it can be accomplished a little faster by opening both flaps 26 and 28.

FIGS. 36-42 illustrate the dispensing closure 20 with both flaps 26 and 28 hinged open and with the inner lid 24 hinged open. This specific arrangement is not considered to be an additional mode of use as it is effectively the same as the third mode. These drawings are provided in order to show the total independence and mutual exclusivity of each of the three hinged structures. The inner lid 24 is able to be opened and closed regardless of the condition or status of either of the first flap 26 or the second flap 28. This same described independence applies in the same manner for the first flap 26 relative to the second flap 28 and the inner lid 24 and for the second flap 28 relative to the first flap 26 and the inner lid 24.

In the course of describing the exemplary embodiment of dispensing closure 20, it has been explained that several of the design and construction elements of the exemplary embodiment have alternatives and design variations which are contemplated and suitable for the intended use of the disclosed dispensing structure. For example, the pattern, number and size of apertures 66 and the pattern, number and size of apertures 72 can each vary. While the specifics for some of these variables may dictate or influence the specifics of others, the design options are otherwise independent.

As one way to present design variations and to show the versatility for the exemplary embodiment of the disclosed dispensing closure, additional drawings FIGS. 43-94 are being included with broken lines for depicting construction aspects and elements which may take on a range of alternatives and variations all within the contemplated scope of the exemplary embodiment. The use of broken lines is a way to depict one or more features of the exemplary embodiment which may be selectively changed, altered or modified while still preserving the fundamental aspects, performance and structural elements of the present invention. These additional drawings include six variations and for the reference numbers, some of the same numbers which are used in FIGS. 1-42 are used again, though with a numbering prefix for each of the six variations which are shown. For example, the first variation of the dispensing closure 20 includes a 100 prefix and the corresponding dispensing closure is thus identified as dispensing closure 120. The second variation is directed to dispensing closure 220 and so forth for each of the six variations. Each of these six variations is illustrated based on using the seven views corresponding to FIGS. 1-7 and using the flip-open views of FIGS. 8, 15 and 22. The use of broken lines in these design variations (FIGS. 43-94) is representative of the fact that some of the specific sizes, shapes and arrangements can vary without changing the basic principles, concepts and functioning of the present invention.

FIGS. 43-52 illustrate dispensing closure 120 with closure body 122, inner lid 124, a first flap 126 and a second flap 128.

FIGS. 53-62 illustrate dispensing closure 220 with closure body 222, inner lid 224, a first flap 226 and a second flap 228.

FIGS. 63-72 illustrate dispensing closure 320 with closure body 322, inner lid 324, a first flap 326 and a second flap 328.

FIGS. 73-82 illustrate dispensing closure 420 with closure body 422, inner lid 424, a first flap 426 and a second flap 428.

FIGS. 83-92 illustrate dispensing closure 520 with closure body 522, inner lid 524, a first flap 526 and a second flap 528.

FIGS. 93-94 illustrate dispensing closure 620 with closure body 622 and inner lid 624

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown and described and that all changes, equivalents, and modifications that come within the spirit of the inventions defined by following claims are desired to be protected. All publications, patents, and patent applications cited in this specification are herein incorporated by reference as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference and set forth in its entirety herein.

Claims

1. A dispensing closure comprising:

a closure body defining a dispensing aperture;

an openable lid cooperating with said closure body for enabling access to said dispensing aperture, said openable lid defining first dispensing means and second dispensing means;

a first openable flap cooperating with said openable lid for enabling access to said first dispensing means; and

a second openable flap cooperating with said openable lid for enabling access to to said second dispensing means.

2. The dispensing closure of claim 1 wherein said openable lid is hinged to said closure body.

3. The dispensing closure of claim 2 wherein said first openable flap is hinged to said openable lid.

4. The dispensing closure of claim 3 wherein said second openable flap is hinged to said openable lid.

5. The dispensing closure of claim 1 wherein said first dispensing means includes a plurality of first openings.

6. The dispensing closure of claim 5 wherein each first opening of said plurality of first openings has a first diameter size.

7. The dispensing closure of claim 6 wherein said second dispensing means includes a plurality of second openings.

8. The dispensing closure of claim 7 wherein each second opening of said plurality of second openings has a second diameter size.

9. The dispensing closure of claim 8 wherein said second diameter size is larger than said first diameter size.

10. The dispensing closure of claim 1 which further includes as a part of said first openable flap, first closing means for cooperating with said first dispensing means.

11. The dispensing closure of claim 10 which further includes as a part of said second openable flap, said closing means for cooperating with said second dispensing means.

12. The dispensing closure of claim 11 wherein said first dispensing means includes a plurality of substantially cylindrical openings and said first closing means includes a plurality of substantially cylindrical projections.

13. The dispensing closure of claim 12 wherein said second dispensing means includes a plurality of substantially cylindrical openings and said second closing means includes a plurality of substantially cylindrical projections.

14. A dispensing closure for a container, said dispensing closure comprising:

a closure body which is constructed and arranged to assemble to said container, said closure body defining a dispensing aperture;

a cover member hinged to said closure body and being constructed and arranged for closing off said dispensing aperture; and

a plurality of combinations of an openable cover flap and a dispensing opening, said plurality of combinations being formed as part of said cover member, wherein said combinations are adjacent each other and wherein said combinations are overlapping said dispensing aperture.

15. The dispensing closure of claim 14 wherein each openable cover flap is hinged to said cover member.

16. The dispensing closure of claim 15 wherein one dispensing opening of said plurality of combinations is one opening of a first plurality of openings.

17. The dispensing closure of claim 16 wherein another dispensing opening of said plurality of combinations is one opening of a second plurality of openings.

18. The dispensing closure of claim 17 wherein the openings of said first plurality of openings and the openings of said second plurality of openings are of different sizes and/or different shapes.

19. The dispensing closure of claim 14 which further includes an interference fit between said cover member and said closure body for selectively retaining said cover member in a closed condition over said dispensing aperture.

20. The dispensing closure of claim 14 which further includes an interference fit between each openable cover flap of said plurality of combinations and said cover member for selectively retaining each openable cover flap in a closed condition over its corresponding dispensing opening.