HERMETIC SEALING AND ADJUSTABLE VALVE CONTROL, FLOW REGULATING, SELF VENTING, CLOSURE APPARATUS
An improved closure apparatus comprising generally of cylindrical members and varied pourable cylindrical spout apparatuses The apparatus comprises an inner sealer ring assembly with a permanent tamper evident seal which mates directly on the neck of a container, the apparatus further comprises an optional spout, funnel, top stopper plug or a multitude of novelty apparatus mechanisms The closure has, but not limited to having a two-piece configuration The pieces of the closure are affixed together to form a one-piece solid construction in its basic form The inner sealer ring assembly hermetically seals and reseals containers during primary use During primary use, the apparatus remains is attached to its mated container so there is reduced throw away and containment of residual liquids and other viscous and pourable materials, condiments and dry goods, preventing splashing and spillage The apparatus further comprises a valve control which performs as an adjustable flow control mechanism that enables atmosphere in, as product is dispensed, reducing gurgling, burping and spitting.
This invention relates generally to the field of closures, seals and caps for containers, vessels, bottles and the like and more specifically to an improvement for a container closure apparatus with valve control and flow regulation abilities that hermetically seals use after use that remains attached during primary use with a permanent tamper evident seal with options for a multitude of tamper resistant seals and interchangeable, re-usable, recyclable, edible, disposable and collectable parts that act as a drinking and or pouring spout and or a funnel for filling and or refilling.
The present invention further relates to a semi permanent closure mounted on, or packaged and sold separately, for use with but not limited to use with a container, bottle, vessel or hose mechanism that is not required to be removed from its mated container or hose during primary use.
Patent searching has revealed over two thousand bottle and container like closures. To date the present invention appears to be the only one that is made of two pieces in its basic configuration that seals and reseals hermetically use after use without the need to ever remove it from its mated container while simultaneously enabling the maximum flow rate a mated container enables for by its design. The present invention also enables the outside atmosphere to enter back into a pouring, upright or upside down container when mated to it which serves gently expel the product out through the closure thus greatly reducing bubbling and gurgling and spitting.
The following are examples of prior technology that we believe to be the closest comparisons to the present invention. Not one of them seals in the manner of the present invention nor have the many uses and novelty apparatus configurations and tool mechanisms available for use with them as does the present invention.
Pepsi Assigned U.S. Pat. No. 6,997,359 Twist Turn. A two piece closure that restricts flow rate and which does not enable air to enter as product, goods or liquids are dispensed and according to its issued patent, U.S. Pat. No. 6,997,359 is only for use on consumable drinks. This closure relies on a secondary collar that first affixed to a neck of a threaded containers neck and may be susceptible to leaking while containing pressurized products, goods or liquids.
Chung U.S. Pat. No. 7,128,245 A two-piece closure that restricts flow rate and which does not enable air to enter as product, goods or liquids are dispensed and according to its issued patent, U.S. Pat. No. 7,128,245 requires that the mated container must be squeezed by an external force in order for this closure to dispense its contents out through a small plastic membrane that severely restricts its flow rate.
Evian France U.S. D0454066 This mechanism features a flip Top construction attached to a circular ornamental hook. It opens and closes in much the same manner as does U.S. Pat. No. 7,128,245 Bellywashers from In-Zone Brands Inc. of Austel Ga. U.S. Pat. No. 7,189,134 They are similar only in the regards of an ornamental design incorporated as a designed part of a closure. The ornamental and novelty apparatuses of the present invention engineered to perform specific functions other than just lending their designs as a marketing tool for the present invention.
This closure opens and closes in the exact same manner, as does U.S. Pat. No. 6,769,575 Creative Packaging Buffalo Grove Ill. U.S. D405,693. Most commonly found on Gatorade products in Canada this closure is required to be removed prior to use as a dispensing apparatus. A foil hermetic seal first removed and then the closure replaced. The product it contains now has a limited shelf life and no long is capable of achieving another hermetic seal unless one to were remove it again and then physically glue the foil seal back in place on the mouths openings then replace the closure a third time. Three times if you include it was first put in place in the manufacturing stage.
Bericap Longvie France U.S. D530,611 S Thumb up For Vittel and Nestle Waters U.S. Pat. No. 480,305 Flip Top Removable. Both of these closures operate in substantially the same way as U.S. Pat. No. 7,128,245 and U.S. D454,066. Although not require to be removed prior to dispensing, both closures restrict flow and do not enable atmosphere to enter the container as product, goods or liquids are dispensed International Plastics and Equipment New Castle P.A. U.S. Pat. No. 6,769,575 Push Pull. The industry standards push-pull closure apparatus is the basis for many patented designs today including Bellywashers—In-Zone Inc. U.S. Pat. No. 7,189,134 This design does not hermetically seal also restricts flow by directing dispensed product through a small orifice Gateway Plastics Inc. Mequon Wis. U.S. D532,298 Flip Top for spice dispensing, holes one side, large hole other side, parmesan cheese, does not hermetically reseal after initial opening, and features no valve for flow control
Loreal Creative USA Inc. U.S. D524,650 Flip Top for the Cosmetic Industry. A flip top for the cosmetic industry that does not seal hermetically and is constructed of more than two pieces Publication Number: O/2007/027709 International Application No.: PCT/US2006/033758 Publication Date: 8, Mar. 2007 International Filing Date: 29, Aug. 2006 Int. Class.: B65D 47/06 (2006.01), B65D 47/12 (2006.01), B65D 47/20 (2006.01) Applicants: GERBER PRODUCTS COMPANY [US/US]; 445 State Street, Fremont, Mich. 49413 (US) Flip Top, seals with a plug mechanism and not a twist open and twist close mechanical method like that of the present invention. Flow control is severely restricted and atmosphere is not able to enter the container as product is dispensed. Features permanent domed top dust cap limiting its use to just that of a closure mechanism
Publication Number: WO/2006/046721 International Application No.: PCT/JP2005/019939 Publication Date: 4, May, 2006 International Filing Date: 25, Oct. 2005 Int. Class.: B65D 51/28 (2006.01) Applicants: THE COCA-COLA COMPANY [US/US]; One Coca-Cola Plaza, N.W., Atlanta, Ga. 30313 (US) A multi piece closure like that of the present invention, which comprises of a sealed inner chamber. Features more working parts than that of the present invention to achieve less flow rate and the potential for a compromised failure of the seal between its independently moving parts. This closure unlike the present invention restricts a products flow rate by the nature of its design.
Publication Number: WO/2006/046725 International Application No.: PCT/JP2005/019944 Publication Date: 4, May 2006 International Filing Date: 25, Oct. 2005 Int. Class.: B65D 51/28 (2006.01) Applicants: THE COCA-COLA COMPANY [US/US]; One Coca-Cola Plaza, N.W., Atlanta, Ga. 30313 (US) A multi piece closure like that of the present invention which is comprised of a sealed inner chamber. Features more working parts than that of the present invention to achieve less flow rate and less functionality and the potential for a compromised failure of the seal between its independently moving parts. This closure unlike the present invention restricts a products flow rate by the nature of its design.
Publication Number: WO/2006/101641 International Application No.: PCT/US2006/005941 Publication Date: 21, Feb. 2006 International Filing Date: 21, Feb. 2006 Int. Class.: F16K 1/30 (2006.01), F16K 17/04 (2006.01), G05D 16/06 (2006.01) Applicants: GLOBAL AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY AND ENGINEERING, LLC [US/US]; A multi piece design not unlike the present invention in its ability to control flow rates but unlike the present invention in that it severely restricts flow rate by the nature of its design and multitude of pieces. Failure of more than one seal or joint looks probable and this design is likely not fail safe when used to seal containers filled with carbonated or pressurized product as is the present invention
Publication Number: WO/2006/027484 International Application No.: PCT/FR2005/002186 Publication Date: 16, Mar. 2006 International Filing Date: Jan. 9, 2005 Int. Class.: B65D 47/08 (2006.01) Applicants: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A. [CH/CH]; Avenue General-Guisan 70, PULLY (CH) A flip top closure very close in appearance and function as is WO/2005/058722—Alcoa Systems as below. Neither system seals in a manner like the present invention even though neither is required to be removed prior to a products dispensing.
Publication Number: WO/2005/058722 International Application No.: PCT/GB2004/005355 Publication Date: 30, Jun. 2005 International Filing Date: 20, Dec. 2004 Int. Class.: B65D 47/08 (2006.01) Applicants: ALCOA CLOSURE SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL (EUROPE) [GB/GB]; Meco Division, Kelvin Way, West Bromwich B70 7JB (GB) (All except US). A flip top closure very close in appearance and function as is WO/2006/027484 Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance as above. Neither system seals in a manner like the present invention even though neither is required to be removed prior to a products dispensing.
Publication Number: WO/2007/026194 International Application No.: PCT/IB2006/000742 Publication Date: 8, Mar. 2007 International Filing Date: 31, Mar. 2006 Int. Class.: B65D 47/08 (2006.01) Applicants: GEFIT S.p.A. [IT/IT]; Via De Negri, 9, I-15100 Alessandria (IT) A flip top closure with small orifice used to pass liquids. This design must be removed prior to dispensing to remove a tamper evident sealed with possible toxic substances to the leading edge of a containers mouth opening. Upon the replacing of this closure to its mated container prior to dispensing, said closure then never hermetically reseals and leaves it contents susceptible to premature spoilage and or contamination.
Publication Number: WO/2005/044670 International Application No.: PCT/US2004/030476 Publication Date: 19, May 2005 International Filing Date: 16, Sep. 2004 Int. Class.: B65D 51/20 (2006.01), B65D 51/22 (2006.01), B65D 81/32 (2006.01), B65D 85/72 (2006.01), B67D 3/00 (2006.01) Applicants: PORTOLA PACKAGING, INC. [US/US]; 890 Faulstich Court, San Jose, Calif. 95112 A twist open, twist closed design similar in design and function of U.S. Pat. No. 6,997,359 Peps Cola Ltd. and PCT WO 03/004373, Beeson & Sons U.K. and WO/2006/046721 Coca-Cola Corp. and WO/2006/046725 Coca-Cola Corp. All closures feature a collar piece as an integral part of their similar function and general appearance.
The present invention engineered specifically to eliminate the need for the added expense of a secondary collar mechanism thereby reducing the overall cost of producing the present invention and reducing the potential for its failure while enabling the present invention to enable atmosphere in as product dispensed. All designs listed above severely restrict a products flow rate by the inherent nature of their engineered design. The present invention is the only one found that enables a higher flow rate than the container it is mated. Unlike the present invention all closures as listed above do not appear nor do they describe themselves as such or make provisions for use as a handling, carrying, and shelf space saving measuring and pouring chambered mechanism
Publication Number: WO/2006/083606 International Application No.: PCT/US2006/002322 Publication Date: 10, Aug. 2006 International Filing Date: 24, Jan. 2006 Int. Class.: B65D 41/16 (2006.01) Applicant: WALTERS, Lawrence [US/US]; 505 Amity Road, Woodbridge, Conn. 06525-1603 (US). Depicts two-piece closure design features a collar and snap top mechanism. It does not appear to seal hermetically nor does it appear to be re-usable after its main function as a closure has been achieved as do all embodiments of the present invention.
Beeson & Sons U.K. PCT WO 03/004373 Twist Turn. Two-piece closure that restricts flow rate and which does not enable air to enter as product, goods or liquids dispensed. This closure also relies on a secondary collar that first affixed to a neck of a threaded containers neck and may be susceptible to leaking while containing pressurized products, goods or liquids. This closure opens and closes and seals in much the same manner as does U.S. Pat. No. 6,997,359 To date and after many exhaustive patent searches, the present invention appears to be the only one of its kind that is made of two base pieces in its basic configuration that seals hermetically without the need to ever remove it from its mated container while simultaneously enabling for the maximum flow rate a mated container enables for by its design and simultaneously enabling the outside atmosphere to enter back into the container while in use which serves to gently force the containers product out through the present invention thus greatly reducing bubbling and gurgling and spitting.
Not one of the prior art that was searched revealed any closure or apparatus or mechanism that has as many if any of the secondary configurations and uses as does the present invention.
Many contemporary designs feature a seal glued to the mouth of the containers opening that are to be thrown away immediately upon removal from their mated container. This leaves a potentially toxic substance adhered to the mouth of the opening to be ingested by humans and in most cases is difficult to remove as many offer little material to grab on so that even a physically normal person cannot remove with ease for nothing more than throwaway. This present invention solves this problem by eliminating the need for this throwaway seal as it features its own permanent safety seal as described and depicted.
Many contemporary closures required removal from their mated containers prior to being able to dispense their containers contents. Many modern “Sports” caps, Oil containers, Bleach bottles, Anti-Freezes, brake fluid containers and the like also require the removal and then subsequent replacement of their mated closure prior to a product, goods or liquids dispensing. Many of these closure mechanisms feature a foil safety seal glued directly to the container, and are removed and disposed of prior to consumption.
Once removed their closure must be replaced and never hermetically seals again. Their product now has a limited shelf life and is susceptible to contamination from outside sources such a dust and harmful microbes, moulds and bacteria's. The present invention solves this problem with an innovative permanent tamper resistant consumer safety seal mechanism and optional secondary safety seals.
As in most of the prior as a person puts their entire mouth over the mouth of containers opening and begins to suck the contents from the container, the atmospheric pressure inside is greatly reduced and the container begins to collapse from the higher pressure on the outside of the container. When the mouth removed from sealing the opening of the container, the outside atmosphere rushes back in to replace that which was sucked out. This enables the ambient air pressure inside the container to equalize with the outside environment. This causes the container to spit residual contents back out of the containers mouth and mainly on to the consumer. The present invention eliminates this problem.
Contemporary designs like those found on containers with contents being stored under pressure are often difficult to open and if shaken tend to leak or spill their contents outside of its desired destination. The shape of the invention serves to prevent this known problem.
Contemporary designs require that consumers lift larger containers with two hands. Often grabbing them in this manner to lift and pour causes these soft walled containers to collapse forcing their product out of the container, spilling in an undesired location.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention features no moving parts in its basic two-piece configuration and due only to the restraints of modern injection moulding and production capabilities can be produced with a minimum of two pieces which are then snapped, glued or welded to together to form the one-piece basic design prior to being mated with its intended container. A multitude of mechanisms added to this basic one-piece design to accommodate any number of applications.
The present invention enables one-handed operation and opened by placing firmly in the mouth or grasping firmly in the teeth and then simply turning the container to open which for consumer convenience and appeal, features a valve flow control mechanism that enables the controlled flow of containers contents.
The present invention enables maximum flow rate as the geometry of the inlet and outlet ports of the threaded base section and the inner disc section are always geometrically larger than the circumference of the containers opening. This simple & important feature enables a free, smooth flow of containers contents through the closure to the outside environment. The flanged top portion of the threaded base section which permanently houses the inner disc section is engineered to support the upper and lower lips of consumers while simultaneously enabling the outside atmosphere to enter the container as product is dispensed. For liquid products such as beer, wine, pop, sports drinks, milk, juice, water and the like this means reduced bubbling and gurgling and spitting of fluids that are associated with many contemporary designs.
The present invention features a permanent non-removable consumer safety, tamper evident seal that precludes the need to glue a foil seal to the containers mouth to achieve a re-usable hermetic seal. Unlike many contemporary designs this enables the present invention to hermetically seal and re-seal use after use. This is especially important in the application of containing perishable goods and products, contained under pressure, carbonated liquids or other liquids or substances that have had any type of gas diffused into their solution whether they are in a viscous, liquid, dry or gaseous state of existence.
The present invention when comprised of two parts is economical to produce and assemble and was engineered to meet industry standard leak proof seal specifications while in the closed position while always enabling a maximum flow rate in its fully opened position. The modular structure of the invention enables economical applications of the technology while also enabling for more elaborate examples of the technology to be produced and profited from.
Security features engineered into the bottom of the threaded base section restrict travel of the closure beyond a maximum opening position also serve to prevent premature removal of the present invention until such a time that it can be forcibly removed to be used in a secondary capacity as described and is of large enough size as to serve to prevent being swallowed by small children or animals. The travel restrictor mechanism enables for the present invention not to be misplaced or accidentally discarded. By permanently remaining attached to its mated container enables residual contents to be contained until such a time that proper disposal can be arranged.
The invention enables products, fluids and goods to be separated up as they leave the container through the inlet and outlet passages of the threaded base and inner disc sections thus reducing turbulence as a product, goods or liquid is being dispensed through the closure. This enables atmosphere to mix freely with the product, goods or liquid being dispensed. This further serves to prevent the inlet and outlet passages from becoming clogged by excess product, goods or liquids trying to escape all at once which in turn enables a smoother consistent flow rate.
The closure features a permanent non-removable safety seal and dependent upon its application it has a secondary safety seal placed on the top of the closure where it will serve to act as tamper evident safety seal and an advertising platform for consumer messages and education and extended brand exposure for advertisers. This seal is also intended to be a collectible piece that will feature famous people, things and places. It is intended to create a collectable safety seal series not unlike Pogs and the cardboard milk seals of glass bottled dairy fame still in use today. A collectible seal will serve to keep this disposable piece from garbage dumps and recycle yards.
The invention relates to a semi permanent apparatus mounted on to a hose apparatus and used as a nozzle mechanism that is not required to be removed from its mated hose during primary use. Other closures we have discovered do not close or seal hoses under pressure. The simplistic solid one-piece construction design of the present invention prevents the leaking that is sometimes associated with similarly shaped hose nozzles that consist of two or more working parts that move independent of each other. Many of these have an internal grommet that seals and separates their internal mechanisms which eventually wears or dries out and then cause them to fail and ultimately leak. With no such parts, moving or otherwise inside of the present invention there is nothing to wear out and thus leakage is reduced if not eliminated.
The present invention features an inner sealer lip seats on and seals the closure to the mouth of the container whilst in its opened position. This provides seamless two-way access for atmosphere and product, goods or liquid to effortlessly pass each while the closure is in use while simultaneously preventing product, goods or liquids from leaking between and then passed the threaded sections of the mated container and the closure to the outside environment.
The present invention is non-removable during primary use also serves to keep many insects and other foreign materials from entering the container whilst the closure remains in the opened position and can be fitted with a screen mechanism to further serve this purpose.
Its larger flanged base and hermetically resealing disc with accompanied spout or funnel mechanism enables consumers to readily refill empty containers without the need to remove the present invention from its mated container. In an alternative embodiment, the closure is removed and inverted, then replaced prior to use. Mainly for use in the automotive spare fuel tank sector, this embodiment features an extendable funnel that seals as one solid piece against its mated container. This design serves to prevent failure and leakage.
Further embodiment's enable the closure to act as a simultaneous measuring and pouring device and except for its top stopper plug mechanism is not required to be removed from its mated container in its effort to perform the function of both a measuring and pouring device. A novel long neck clear configuration of the closure that features up to four moulded pieces features graduated measuring marks and is designed specifically to perform the function of a measuring device, pouring spout and funnel for refilling which precludes the need for an outside measuring apparatus. This serves to contain toxic substance until such a time as they need to be dispensed. This prevents the handling of dangerous and toxic substances in two stages. This prevents splashes and spillage while handling and dispensing dangerous products goods and liquids. This is especially important for handling toxic and corrosive substances such as 35% food grade H2O2, liquid or powdered bleaches, household oven cleaners, brake or transmission fluids or muriatic or sulphuric acids.
This apparatus requires little effort to open and close and its large flanged size accommodates both those young and old alike and especially those afflicted with physical disabilities and those with arthritic like medical maladies and enables a secure grip and provides much needed leverage that enables consumers to lift and drink from the container using only one hand to lift and drink and pour.
Originally conceived to replace a funnel mechanism from which to pour auto additives into motor vehicles it has progressed into the present invention with several uses and configurations. Its many secondary uses require its forced removal from its mated container mainly after a contained product has been dispensed and can be used as a drinking apparatus, measuring apparatus, funnel apparatus, pouring spout apparatus, toy apparatus, sports aid apparatus, emergency apparatus, collectible piece, advertising platform mechanism, hook apparatus and a multitude of other novelty apparatuses and mechanisms.
The present invention made from a multitude of materials like plastic, steel, aluminums, bubble gum, and chocolate and corn starch but is not limited to just these materials for its construction and manufacture. Edible and biodegradable configurations of the present invention serve to reduce waste and pollution.
The present invention is equally efficient when in use on carbonated, non-carbonated, dairy, water, soft drinks, sports drinks, juices. As the closure instantly reseals with a simple twist in the opposite direction in which it was opened a hermetic seal is formed use after use preserving freshness and extending shelf life of a multitude of products, goods & liquids.
Designed specifically to fit each individual, the dimensions of the present invention are ergonomically engineered and are of a sufficient diameter as to accommodate any size or shape of the human mouth.
The large angular flange section of the threaded base section serves to hook the closure to the lip of the vessel that its contents are being poured into. This serves to prevent the accidental slipping of the closure and its mated container and subsequent spillage of product, goods or liquids while dispensing their contents.
For the grocer's shelf, the flanged section is utilized to hang the closure and mated container from underneath shelves instead of on top. This makes available more valuable topside shelf space and enables retailers and wholesalers to make efficient use of their limited shelf space. More products stocked in smaller spaces means less space required to vend the product in turn equates to reduced operating expenses for retailers and wholesalers.
OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTIONThe primary object of the invention is a closure that hermetically seals and reseals.
Another object of the invention is that it is not required to remove prior to dispensing a contained product.
A further object of the invention during primary use remains attached to the container so there is no “throw away” during primary use.
Yet another object of the invention is a hermetic re-sealing ability of the featured design which preserves product freshness especially for pressurized & carbonated beverages & perishable goods.
Still yet another object of the invention assists in extending products shelf life.
Another object of the invention is it serves to reduce waste.
Yet another object of the invention enables for multitude options for many tamper evident consumer safety seals to be added.
Another object of the invention serves to minimize clogging, burping and spitting normally associated with completive designs.
A further object of the invention comprises a flexible inner sealer lip that when the closure is in the open position, seats on the leading edge of the containers open mouth and when the closure is in the closed position the flexible inner sealer lip retracts down the side of the threaded container mouth where it remains in contact with the containers edge to form a leak resistant seal.
Still yet another object of the invention, engineered to be Eco friendly.
Another object of the invention, engineered ergonomically compatible.
Another object of the invention is engineered to perform in a multitude of configurations that include but are not limited to a sports & survival mechanism, magnifying glass, toy, novelty apparatuses & collectable piece, measuring device, funnel or spout for drinking from directly or pouring from.
Another object of the invention has engineered functions for industries which include but are not limited to the automotive additive & oil, home cleaning, chemical, gardening, medical, food, beverage, toy, novelty apparatuses, collectible, sex (disease prevention & pleasure), advertising, cosmetics, dairy, juice, alcohol & drinking water sectors.
Still yet another object of the invention featured is that it has engineered functions for hanging it and its mated container from the underneath of an overhead shelf or for tying down tarps used for storing.
Yet another object of the invention featured is that it has engineered functions enabling it to act as light source mechanism.
Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following descriptions, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein, by way of illustration and example, an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed.
In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, there is disclosed a container closure apparatus that hermetically seals use after use that remains attached during primary use with a permanent tamper evident seal comprising: a valve control mechanism having a mated housing and inlet and outlet passages permanently affixed to the outlet passage of a threaded base section leading to either a married hollow funnel/spout or directly to the outside environment, a valve control mechanism having suspension legs permanently affixed to an outer support ring and inner sealer and product deflection disc section, a valve control mechanism having a permanent industry standard tamper resistant safety seal liner affixed to its underside, a valve control mechanism means non-movable in the housing between an on & off position, non-movable main valve control mechanism is permanently affixed to a threaded base section in the production process so that both pieces act as one and do not move independently of each other, non-movable main valve control mechanism moves in a synchronous motion with a threaded base section to perform an open & close function, a threaded base section housing a main valve control mechanism having both an outlet passage and an inlet passage from the first compartment leading into the main valve control mechanism, in its basic configuration a threaded base section is internally threaded but not limited to that to enable permanent attachment to a mated vessel or container and features security mechanisms preventing tampering and premature detachment of the mated threaded base section and main valve control mechanism from its mated container/vessel/bottle, a threaded base section features a back flow and leak resistant inner sealer lip section that forms a semi permanent seal on the top leading edge of its mated container while in the open position thus preventing any back flow or leakage to the outside environment by way of passing through the thread passage way located between the mated containers threads and the threads of the base section, a threaded base section features but is not limited to featuring an optional support lip section to accommodate a multitude of funnel/spout configurations, threaded base section housing a main valve control mechanism performs its open & close function by holding its mated container firmly and then turning the featured apparatus one way to open and the opposite direction to close, and threaded base section housing a main valve control mechanism and optional spouts or funnels or apparatus travels up & down the containers threaded neck as it is turned one direction to open and the opposite direction to close.
The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments to the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. It is to be understood that in some instances various aspects of the invention may be shown exaggerated or enlarged to facilitate an understanding of the invention while other embodiments described have no visual reference contained herein.
Detailed descriptions of the preferred embodiment provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein not interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in a multitude of appropriately detailed systems, structures or manners. In all embodiments of the first embodiment as depicted in
Turning now to the drawings of the said apparatus and relating to the present invention in detail and beginning with
The outer piece 52 and the inner piece 51, when married in the manufacturing process perform a synchronous function so that the closure 50 and the container 53 can go from the open position to the hermetically sealed closed position directly without the need for an added and separate inner sealer liner which has been replaced in the present invention with an inner lip 61 as depicted in
It is intended that the closure 50 be re-usable and that the travel restrictor mechanisms 54 featured in
The inner piece 51 includes, but is not limited to a conical shaped central disc 55, hereinafter, the central disc 55. In
The inner piece 51 fits permanently inside the inner ring cup support housing assembly 58, hereinafter, the cup assembly 58 of the outer section 52 and does not move once permanently mated with the outer piece 52 in the manufacturing process. The outer piece 52 comprises of the cup assembly 58 and an apparatus piece support ledge 59, hereinafter, the ledge 59 which is not present in the embodiment of the basic design of
As shown in
Alternatively the closure 50 may have many interchangeable sections which include, but are not limited to novelties, hooks, top plugs, toy tops, advertising platforms, collectible pieces, foil tamper evident seals with consumer messages, cork seals, cardboard seals, plastic seals, metal seals, shrink wrap seals or hinged lid sealer configurations. The optional ledge 59 which is not always present as shown in
In the embodiment of
The angled surfaces on the legs 56 both top and bottom serve to prevent product from attaching itself to the legs 56 whether it be going in or out of the container 53.
The outer passage 64 of
The ramp 63 of
As depicted in the cross section, image of
In accordance with the present invention,
In a clear or see through configuration of a novelty apparatus 66 with the top plug 68 firmly and hermetically in place and fitted with the graduate scale markings, hereinafter, the graduate scale 74 as shown in
In accordance with the present invention,
The direct intention for inversion of the closure 50 in this manner and placement of the closure 50 in this embodiment is to reduce the overall height of closure 50 mainly for shipping, handling, stacking and storing purposes.
In accordance with the present invention,
In accordance with the present invention,
In accordance with the present invention,
In accordance with the present invention,
In accordance with the present invention,
In accordance with the present invention,
In accordance with the present invention,
In accordance with the present invention,
In accordance with the present invention,
Not depicted is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of
Not depicted is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of
Not depicted is a perspective view of a ninth embodiment of
Not depicted, a tenth embodiment of
Not depicted is an eleventh embodiment of
Not depicted is a twelfth embodiment of
Not depicted is a thirteenth embodiment of
Not depicted is a fourteenth embodiment of
Not depicted is a fifteenth embodiment of
Not depicted is a sixteenth embodiment of
Not depicted is a seventeenth embodiment of
Not depicted is the eighteenth embodiment of
Not depicted is a nineteenth embodiment of
Not depicted is a twentieth embodiment of
Not depicted is a twenty-first embodiment of
Not depicted is a twenty-second embodiment of
Not depicted is a twenty-third embodiment of
Not depicted is a twenty-fourth embodiment of
In accordance with the first embodiment of
Claims
1. An improved mainly cylindrical closure apparatus for containers, bottles, vessel and the like that hermetically seals use after use that remains attached during primary use with a permanent tamper evident seal comprising a multitude of configurations for use with but not limited to use with spirits, beer, wine, pop, sport drink, milk, juice, water, oil and other automotive additives, chemicals, household cleaners, medicines, condiments, cosmetics and personal hygiene containers that has uses as a drinking apparatus, measuring apparatus, funnel apparatus, pouring apparatus, toy apparatus, sports aid apparatus, emergency apparatus, collectible piece, advertising platform mechanism, hook apparatus and a multitude of other novelty apparatuses and mechanisms that work with containers, bottles, vessels and the like that contain products mixed with gas or that are packaged under pressure and other varied products in a viscous, liquid, dry, gaseous or gaseous mixed state of existence that comprises of a valve control mechanism and mated threaded base section that together control a products flow rate coming in and out of a container, vessel, bottle and like;
- the valve mechanism for flow control regulation having a mated housing features an inlet and outlet passage permanently affixed to the outlet passage of a threaded base section leading to either a married hollow funnel/spout mechanism or leading directly to the outside environment;
- the valve mechanism for flow control regulation having a number of suspension legs bevelled on all sides and permanently affixed to an outer support ring and inner central disc system that is manufactured as a solitary piece which is then permanently mated to the threaded base section and together serve to form a hermetic seal when in the closed position; the valve mechanism for flow control regulation having a product deflection disc section that is angled or not both top and bottom that directs product past it whether incoming or outgoing and assists;
- the valve mechanism for flow control regulation having a permanent industry standard tamper resistant safety sealing mechanism integrated to its underside which provides the hermetic re-sealing abilities the invention;
- the valve mechanism for flow control regulation means non-movable after being welded in the manufacturing process to the main housing of the threaded base section so that both pieces act as a solitary unit and do not move independently of each other between an open & closed and in and out position;
- the valve mechanism for flow control regulation moves in a synchronous motion with the threaded base section following in unison along the travel path of a mated containers threaded neck as the closure is turned in one direction and then the opposite direction to execute an open & close and in and out function;
- the threaded base section housing a valve mechanism for flow control regulation having both an outlet passage and an inlet passage from the first compartment leading into the main valve control mechanism having its over all height adjustable to meet with varied shelving polices of global industry;
- the threaded base section is internally threaded but not limited to that to enable semi-permanent attachment to a mated container;
- the threaded base section features security mechanisms to prevent tampering and premature detachment of the mated threaded base section from the container that includes travel restrictor mechanisms for limiting the rotation of the closure to a pre-determined and maximum open and closed position until such a time that it can be forcibly removed to be kept by consumers then further act as a multitude of interchangeable, re-usable, recyclable, edible, disposable and collectable parts that perform as a drinking apparatus and or pouring spout and or funnel apparatus for filling and or refilling, hanging and playing with and is further able to act, but not limited to acting, as a venue that provides valuable space for sale, lease or rent;
- the threaded base section features an inclined ramp surface that engages and guides outgoing and incoming product from the container through the closure and whose outside configuration of an angled surface provides a sure grip surface to aid consumers in pouring, drinking, carrying, hanging and handling of a closure and mated container;
- the threaded base section features a back flow and leak resistant inner sealer lip section that forms a semi permanent seal on the top leading edge of its mated container in the open position preventing back flow or leakage to the outside environment by way of passing through the passage way located between the mated containers threads and the threads of the base section;
- the threaded base section features but is not limited to featuring an optional lip and mouth support section to accommodate a multitude of funnel/spout or novelty configurations;
- the threaded base section housing a main valve control mechanism performs its open & close function by holding its mated container firmly and then turning the featured apparatus one direction to open and the opposite direction to close; the threaded base section designed to make for ease of use requires little effort to open and close as its angular flanged outer surface acts as a leverage mechanism for young and old and those afflicted with physical disabilities and arthritic like medical maladies; the threaded base section with an etched or roughened outer surface acts as a gripping mechanism and provides much leverage that enables consumers to lift and drink, pour from the container using only one hand; the threaded base section with or without etched or roughened outer surface acts as a gripping mechanism to provides a simple ergonomical carrying and lifting mechanism;
- the threaded base section enables maximum flow rate through its interior as the geometry of its inlet and outlet ports and those of the valve mechanism section are consistently larger than the circumference of the containers opening enabling a smoother flow of containers contents through the closure to the outside environment;
- the threaded base section which permanently houses the valve mechanism for flow control regulation is engineered to support the upper and lower lips of consumers while simultaneously enabling the outside atmosphere to enter the container as product is dispensed which causes an equalization of atmospheric pressure on the inside and outside of a collapsible container, vessel, bottle and the like reducing bubbling, frothing gurgling, splashing and spitting of fluids.
2. An improvement for a closure for containers as defined in claim 1 wherein said closure comprises of a cylindrical shaped funnel or spout mechanism for the pouring and dispensing of contained products mated with a hermetically sealing top stopper plug to enable for the inverting of an opened container with out leakage or spillage for the said purpose of pouring a measured amount of product into a sealed chambered section, sealing it inside the chamber and then after re-inverting the container and removing the top stopper plug mechanism, then tilting the container to dispense and pour the product which reduces spills, burns and related maladies while simultaneously eliminating the need to engage an extraneous measuring, pouring or containment apparatus.
3. An improvement for a closure for containers as defined in claim 1 wherein said improvement comprises of a variety of add-on top mechanisms used to seal out dust, dirt and contaminants which include but are not limited to a hinge mechanism, a tether mechanism, a magnetic mechanism and a string mechanism designed to permanently attach a removable top cap sealer apparatus to the present invention.
Type: Application
Filed: Apr 2, 2007
Publication Date: Apr 2, 2009
Inventor: John L. Coulson (Pender Island)
Application Number: 12/295,373