DOSING CLOSURE WITH DUST COVER TO ACTIVATE, TWIST AND PULL
The present invention relates to a storing and dispensing closure to separately house, store or carry a dose or supply of one or more ingredients, formulations or products until dispensed at point-of-use, to dispense the stored products into a separate receiving vessel, and to dispense for consumption. Methods for dosing or supplying are also provided.
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Appl. No. 61/632,363, filed Jan. 23, 2012, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to the field of packages and containers, and in particular, pertains to containers that may be used to keep components separate until use and the dispensing of one component into the other at the point of use. In particular aspects, the field of the invention relates to beverage bottle caps and closure devices.
2. Background
The present invention relates to dosing technology for beverages, such as sports cap beverages. It is desired to separate ingredients from a beverage to maintain the product's efficacy during storage thereby delivering an improved fresh dose of vitamins or other supplements to the user at the immediate point of use. The current state of this technology can be improved by providing a closure that is easily understood and operated by the end user, can store and deliver enhanced supplements or ingredients to the beverage while maintaining their integrity, and allow the consumer to drink the beverage without the need to remove the storage and delivery closure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThis invention relates to dosing technology by providing a dosing chamber to store ingredients before the ingredients are released into a receiving vessel, such as a beverage bottle, a mechanism for activating or releasing the ingredients into the receiving vessel without removal of the closure from the receiving vessel, and a means for the consumer to consume the enhanced beverage without removal of the closure.
In one aspect, the invention provides a closure device capable of allowing consumption of the one or more ingredients, formulations or products combined with the contents of a receiving vessel without removal of the closure device from the receiving vessel. In some embodiments, the closure device is capable of housing, storing and/or carrying a dose or supply of one or more ingredients, formulations or products for a beverage until a desired point of use as determined by the end user.
In some aspects, the closure device comprises a base; a sleeve; a spout for dispensing the contents of the closure device from a receiving vessel; an end cap; and a dust cover.
In some aspects, the invention provides a closure device comprising:
a) a base comprising a product chamber for storing one or more ingredients until point-of-use dispensing comprising one or more side walls having an inner and outer diameter wherein the outer diameter further comprises one or more base radial beads, a proximal end and distal end, and a closure skirt for engaging the opening or neck of a receiving vessel comprising a proximal top, one or more peripheral side walls having an inner and outer diameter greater than the one or more side walls of the product chamber, and a distal end;
b) a sleeve capable of moving axially in proximal and distal directions comprising a center post, a base engaging seal portion and a spout engaging seal portion, wherein the base engaging seal portion comprises one or more distal end sleeve beads which provides radial interference on the outer diameter of the base, wherein the spout engaging seal portion comprises one or more spout seal beads which provides radial interference on the inner diameter of the spout, wherein the center post is in axial alignment within the product chamber, wherein the center post is attached to and one or more center post collar support ribs;
c) a spout capable of moving axially in proximal and distal directions comprising a proximal top with an outlet capable of receiving the stem of the center post and allowing product to pass through the closure device from a receiving vessel, one or more side walls having inner and outer diameters wherein the inner diameter further comprises one or more distal end spout beads for interfering engagement of one or more spout seal beads of the spout engaging seal portion of the sleeve when the spout is in its most proximal, open configuration, a sealing member for engaging the stem of the center post to create a seal when the spout is in its most distal, closed configuration;
d) an end cap in mating engagement with the distal end of the center post, wherein the end cap closes the distal end of the product chamber in the inactivated state; and
e) a dust cover that covers the spout, sleeve and part of the base in the inactivated configuration, wherein the spout comprises one or more helical thread forms which interfering engage with one or more helical thread forms of the sleeve, wherein a twisting motion of the dust cover activates the closure device; wherein the activation of the closure device results from axial movement of the sleeve in a downward or distal direction, wherein the center post applies a pressing force on the end cap, wherein a seal between the end cap and inner wall of the product chamber is broken, wherein one or more ingredients housed in the closure device are released into a receiving vessel.
In some embodiments, the closure skirt comprises a plug seal depending from the proximal top of the closure skirt comprising a thicker proximal end and thinner distal end, and non-parallel inner and outer angled surfaces wherein the apex of the outer surface engages the inner diameter of the opening or neck of the receiving vessel.
In some embodiments, the dust cover is held in position by a series of lug and groove combinations configured to move/work in combination with the sleeve such that the dust cover is not readily removed from the base until appropriate lug and groove combinations are aligned. In some aspects, the alignment and radial movement required to make the dust cover align for removal drives the sleeve, and end cap from the closed position to the open position.
In another aspect, the invention provides methods of supplying or dispensing a dose of one or more ingredients, formulations or products to a user comprising:
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- i) attaching a closure device of the invention to a receiving vessel;
- ii) dispensing the one or more ingredients, formulations or products therefrom into the attached receiving vessel by twisting and removing the dust cover; and
- iii) opening the spout on the closure device for consuming the contents of the receiving vessel through the spout.
In some embodiments, the base comprises a product chamber which can house or store one or more ingredients until released by the end user and engage a container opening of a receiving vessel. The ingredients can be specially formulated ingredients.
In some embodiments, the end user can mix the released ingredients as desired, then dispense the mixture by pulling up on the spout or twisting the spout exposing an outlet port for the product to pass through.
In some aspects, the closure device of the present invention comprises a closure skirt capable of attaching to a receiving vessel and sealing close the neck or opening of the vessel. In some embodiments the closure skirt comprises one or more deformable protrusions capable of attaching to and sealing close the necks and openings of receiving vessels of various sizes. In some embodiments the deformable protrusions comprise one or more plug seals.
In some embodiments, the closure device comprises one or more of the tamper evident (TE) components that indicate premature dispensing and/or tampering. In some embodiments, the tamper evident component is selected from the group consisting of (i) a tamper evident band attached by a break-away attachment to the distal end of the spout to prevent inadvertent dispensing and which cannot be removed from the spout without breaking the break-away attachment, (ii) a tamper evident skirt attached to the distal annular edge of the closure skirt by a break-away attachment that cannot be removed from a receiving vessel without breaking the break-away attachment, and/or (iii) a break-away attachment or pull tab on the dust cover such that the dust cover cannot be twisted without breaking or removing the break-away attachment or without actuating the pull tab.
The features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. While numerous changes may be made by those skilled in the art, such changes are within the spirit of the invention.
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.
For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to certain embodiments 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, and alterations and modifications in the illustrated embodiments, and further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein are herein contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.
For the purpose of interpreting this specification, the following definitions will apply and whenever appropriate, terms used in the singular will also include the plural and vice versa. In the event that any definition set forth below conflicts with the usage of that word in any other document, including any document incorporated herein by reference, the definition set forth below shall always control for purposes of interpreting this specification and its associated claims unless a contrary meaning is clearly intended (for example in the document where the term is originally used). The use of “or” means “and/or” unless stated otherwise. The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed.
In one aspect, the present invention relates to storing, dispensing and closure devices. The closure devices of the present invention can be used to separately house, store or carry a dose or supply of one or more ingredients, formulations or products to maintain freshness and integrity of the ingredients until dispensed at point-of-use into a separate receiving vessel. When activated the closure devices of the present invention delivers or dispenses the stored dose or supply of one or more ingredients, formulations or products to the receiving vessel without the removal of the closure device from the receiving vessel thereby eliminating spills and contamination. The combined contents of the receiving vessel can be dispensed for consumption by the closure devices of the present invention without removing the closure device from the receiving vessel. The closure devices can be opened for consuming the combined contents, can be closed to prevent spilling of the combined contents, and can be reopened and closed again, if desired.
In some embodiments, the closure device comprises a base, a sleeve for dispensing a dose or supply of the one or more ingredients, formulations or products into a receiving vessel, a spout for dispensing the combined contents of the receiving vessel for consumption, an end cap and a dust cover. In some embodiments, the sleeve sits atop and engages a base and a spout sits atop and engages the sleeve. In some embodiments, the dust cover sits atop a portion of the base, and the entire sleeve and spout when closure device is in an inactivated state. The end cap is located at the distal portion of the base.
In some embodiments, the sleeve, end cap and dust cover cooperate in a concerted action to dispense the one or more ingredients into a receiving vessel.
In some embodiments, an outer diameter of the sleeve is configured with a helix or like device that is engaged with a helix or like device on an inner diameter of the dust cover such that when the dust cover is rotated, this action drives the sleeve and end cap in a downward direction releasing ingredients from the product chamber. In some embodiments, the sleeve comprises a center post which acts directly and applies a pressing force on the end cap when the sleeve is driven in a downward action.
In some embodiments, once the dust cover is rotated properly and ingredients are released, the dust cover can then be removed from the base. In some embodiments, the spout can be pulled open or twisted open by a user so that the combined contents of the receiving vessel can be emptied through the spout.
In some embodiments, the dust cover is held in position on the base by one or more lug and groove combinations configured to move/work in combination with the sleeve such that the dust cover is not readily removed from the base until appropriate lug and groove combinations are aligned. In some embodiments, the alignment and radial movement required to make the dust cover align for removal drives the sleeve and end cap from the closed position to the open position. In some embodiments, the dust cover lugs and cooperating groove sequence in the base portion do not allow a user access to ingredients prior to their release from the product chamber past the end cap into an appropriate receiving vessel.
In some embodiments, the base 1 comprises a product chamber 3 and closure skirt 4; the sleeve comprises a center post 6, a base engaging seal portion 28 and a spout engaging seal portion 18; the spout 5 comprises an outlet 17 capable of receiving a stem of the center post 8 and allowing the combined contents of the receiving vessel to pass through the closure device, one or more side walls having inner and outer diameters, a sealing member 21 for engaging the stem of the center post 8 to create a seal when the spout is in its most distal, closed state. In some embodiments the closure device further comprises a receiving vessel attached to the closure device capable of receiving the one or more ingredients dispensed from the closure device.
The sleeve 12 engages with the base and is capable of moving relative to the base in an axial direction. In some embodiments, the sleeve 12 comprises a center post 6, a base engaging seal portion 28 and a spout engaging seal portion 18, wherein the base engaging seal portion 28 comprises one or more distal end sleeve beads 22 which provides radial interference on the outer diameter of the base, wherein the spout engaging seal portion 18 comprises one or more spout seal beads 19 which provides radial interference on the inner diameter of the spout 5.
The spout 5 engages with the sleeve 12 and is capable of moving relative to the sleeve 12 axially in the proximal and distal directions.
In some embodiments, the base 1 comprises one or more distal end base beads 23 which provides radial interference on the inner diameter of the sleeve, and a closure skirt 4 for engaging an opening or neck of a receiving vessel, the closure skirt 4 comprising a proximal top, one or more peripheral side walls and a distal annular edge.
In some embodiments, the center post 6 has one or more inner and outer diameters, a proximal stem 8, an intermediate portion and a distal end, wherein the distal end engages the end cap 7.
In some embodiments, the proximal stem of the center post 8 engages with a sealing member 21 of the spout to form a seal.
In some embodiments, the center post 6 is in axial alignment within the product chamber 3 and is capable of moving in a distal direction within the product chamber.
In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the center post is attached to one or more center post collar support ribs 15.
In some embodiments, the base 1 comprises a sleeve stop 16 that engages the sleeve 12 after the sleeve 12 has moved relative to the base 1 in an axial direction and which prevents further movement of the sleeve 12 relative to the base 1.
In some embodiments, the distal end of the center post 6 is in mating engagement with the end cap 7 comprising a proximal top, peripheral radial edge and distal end, wherein the proximal top of the end cap comprises a center post receiving portion 10, wherein the center post 6 is in mating engagement with the center post receiving portion 10 of the end cap.
In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the product chamber has polished radial mating surfaces 11, enabling the product chamber 3 and end cap 7 to form a friction-based seal.
In some embodiments, the spout 5 comprises an outlet 17, one or more sealing members 21 which engages the stem of the center post 8, and one or more distal end spout beads 20 which engages a spout seal portion of the sleeve 18.
In some embodiments, the stem of the center post 8 contacts one or more sealing members of the spout 21, resulting in a seal between the center post 8 and spout 5 when the closure is in an inactive configuration.
In some embodiments, the spout 5 comprises a proximal top, a greater diameter of the spout 24, a lesser diameter of the spout 27, one or more side walls having one or more inner and outer diameters and a distal annular edge, wherein the one or more inner diameters of the side wall of the spout interferingly engage one or more of the outer diameters of the side wall of the spout seal portion of the sleeve 18.
In some embodiments, the one or more inner diameters of the side wall of the spout comprises one or more distal end spout beads 20 for interfering engagement of the one or more outer diameters of the side wall of the spout seal portion of the sleeve 18, the one or more outer diameters of the side wall of the spout seal portion of the sleeve 18 comprises one or more spout seal beads 19 for interfering engagement of the one or more inner diameters of the side wall of the spout, or there is a combination thereof, wherein the one or more distal end spout beads 20 are distal to the one or more spout seal beads 19, wherein the one or more distal end spout beads 20 interferingly engage the one or more spout seal beads 19 when the spout 5 is in its most proximal, open configuration.
In some embodiments, the base 1 comprises a closure skirt 4 comprising a proximal top, one or more peripheral side walls having an inner and outer diameter, a distal annular edge and one or more deformable protrusions depending from the inner diameter of the side walls. The deformable protrusions enable the closure skirt to be adaptable to various sized vessel openings.
In some embodiments, the one or more deformable protrusions of the closure skirt comprise a radial protrusion, an axial protrusion, an angled protrusion, or combinations thereof, wherein the one or more deformable radial protrusions comprise one or more deformable rings, helix or combinations thereof.
In some embodiments, the deformable axial protrusion comprises more than one deformable vertical rib, angled rib, arced rib or combinations thereof.
In some embodiments, the closure skirt comprises a plug seal depending from a proximal top of the closure skirt, wherein the plug seal has a proximal end, intermediate portion and distal end. In some embodiments, the plug seal is angled having an inner and outer surface, wherein the apex of the outer angle surface interferingly engages the inner diameter of the opening or neck of a receiving vessel.
In some embodiments, the dust cover comprises one or more outer gripping lugs 26 which facilitate the gripping and twisting of the dust cover 2. In some embodiments, the dust cover 2 comprises one or more helical thread forms 13 which interferingly engage with one or more helical thread forms 14 of the sleeve.
In some embodiments, the twisting motion of the dust cover 2 activates the closure device, wherein the activation of the closure device results from axial movement of the sleeve 12 in a downward or distal direction, wherein the center post 6 applies a pressing force on the end cap 7, wherein a seal between the end cap 7 and inner wall of the product chamber 3 is broken, wherein one or more ingredients housed in the closure device are released into a receiving vessel.
In some embodiments, the dust cover 2 is held in position by a series of lug 56 and groove 57 combinations configured to move/work in combination with the sleeve 12 such that the dust cover 2 is not readily removed from the base 1 until appropriate lug 56 and groove 57 combinations are aligned. In some embodiments, the alignment and radial movement required to make the dust cover 2 align for removal drives the sleeve 12 and end cap 7 from the closed position to the open position.
In some embodiments, the spout 5 is capable of being moved axially in an upward or proximal direction by a pulling force by the end user, wherein the contents of the receiving vessel are capable of passing through an outlet 17 of the spout 5.
In some embodiments, there are one or more features indicative that inadvertent dispensing or tampering has occurred including a tamper evident (TE) band of the spout, a TE band of the closure skirt, one or more break-away attachments of a fold-away truss on the stem of the center post, and one or more break-away attachments of the dust cover which, in some embodiments, must be broken before the dust cover can be twisted.
In another embodiment, the closure device comprises a base 1 comprising a product chamber 3 for storing one or more ingredients until point-of-use dispensing comprising one or more side walls having an inner and outer diameter wherein the outer diameter further comprises one or more distal end base beads 23, a proximal end and distal end, and a closure skirt 4 for engaging the opening or neck of a receiving vessel comprising a proximal top, one or more peripheral side walls having an inner and outer diameter greater than the one or more side walls of the product chamber 3, and a distal end; a sleeve 12 having a center post 6 in axial alignment within the product chamber 3 and in mating engagement with an end cap 7 wherein the center post 6 is attached by one or more center post collar support ribs 15, and an end cap 7 that closes the distal end of the product chamber 3 in the inactivated state; a spout 5 capable of moving axially in proximal and distal directions comprising a proximal top with an opening capable of receiving the stem of the center post 8, one or more side walls having inner and outer diameters wherein an inner diameter further comprises one or more distal end spout beads 20 for interfering engagement of one or more spout seal beads 19 when the spout 5 is in its proximal, open position, a sealing member 21 for engaging the stem of the center post 8 for sealing the outlet 17 in the closed state, and an outlet 17 formed by the opening of the spout and the space around the stem of the center post 8 when the spout is in the proximal, open position, and a dust cover.
In another embodiment, the closure device comprises a closure skirt 4 for engaging the opening or neck of a receiving vessel comprising a proximal top, one or more peripheral side walls and a plug seal 47 depending from the proximal top comprising a thicker proximal end 49 and thinner distal end 48, and non-parallel inner and outer angled surfaces wherein the apex of the outer surface 50 engages the inner diameter of the opening or neck of the receiving vessel, a product chamber 3 for housing one or more ingredients comprising one or more side walls having an inner and outer diameter, a proximal end covered by the spout and a distal end closed by an end cap 7 when the closure device is in the inactivated state; a sleeve 12 comprising a center post 6 in mating engagement with an end cap 7 and capable of moving axially, wherein the center post 6 is attached by one or more center post collar support ribs 15, an end cap 7 that is in sealing engagement with the inner diameter of the product chamber 3 in the inactivated state and further comprising a spout 5 having an greater diameter portion 24 and a lesser diameter portion 27 comprising a proximal top with an opening capable of receiving the stem of the center post 8 and capable of moving axially in proximal and distal directions, a stem of the center post 8 and an outlet 17 that is formed by the opening of the spout 5 and the space around the stem of the center post 8 when the spout is in the proximal, open position; and a dust cover 2 comprising one or more outer gripping lugs 26.
In another embodiment, the closure device comprises a base 1 comprising a closure skirt 4 engaging the opening or neck of a receiving vessel comprising a proximal top, one or more peripheral side walls and a plug seal 47 depending from the proximal top comprising a thicker proximal end 49 and thinner distal end 48, and non-parallel inner and outer angled surfaces wherein the apex of the outer surface 50 engages the inner diameter of the opening or neck of the receiving vessel; a product chamber 3 for storing one or more ingredients comprising one or more side walls having an inner and outer diameter where in the outer diameter further comprises one or more distal end base beads 23, a proximal end and a distal end comprising a distal annular edge; a sleeve 12 comprising a center post 6 in mating engagement with an end cap 7, one or more center post collar support ribs 15 which attach the center post 6, an end cap 7 in sealing engagement with the inner diameter of the product chamber 3 in the inactivated state, and a spout 5 comprising one or more side walls having an inner diameter further comprising one or more distal end spout beads 20 for interfering engagement of the outer diameter of the sleeve 12, and capable of moving axially in the proximal and distal directions; wherein distal movement of the spout 5 moves the spout in a downward direction and causing the stem of the center post 8 to form a seal with the sealing member 21 of the spout 5; wherein proximal movement of the spout 5 moves the spout 5 up and in an open configuration, wherein the stem of the center post 8 passes downwardly into the spout 5 and breaking the seal between the center post stem 8 and sealing member of the spout 21; and a dust cover 2.
In some embodiments, the invention provides a closure device comprising
a) a base 1 comprising a product chamber 3 for storing one or more ingredients until point-of-use dispensing comprising one or more side walls having an inner and outer diameter wherein the outer diameter further comprises one or more distal end base beads 23, a proximal end and distal end, and a closure skirt 4 for engaging the opening or neck of a receiving vessel comprising a proximal top, one or more peripheral side walls having an inner and outer diameter greater than the one or more side walls of the product chamber 3, and a distal end;
b) a sleeve 12 capable of moving axially in proximal and distal directions comprising a center post 6, a base engaging seal portion 28 and a spout engaging seal portion 18, wherein the base engaging seal portion 28 comprises one or more distal end sleeve beads 22 which provides radial interference on the outer diameter of the base 1, wherein the spout engaging seal portion 18 comprises one or more spout seal beads 19 which provides radial interference on the inner diameter of the spout 5, wherein the center post 6 is in axial alignment within the product chamber 3, wherein the center post 6 is attached to and one or more center post collar support ribs 15;
c) a spout 5 capable of moving axially in proximal and distal directions comprising a proximal top with an outlet 17 capable of receiving the stem of the center post 8 and allowing product to pass through the closure device from a receiving vessel, one or more side walls having inner and outer diameters wherein the inner diameter further comprises one or more distal end spout beads 20 for interfering engagement of one or more spout seal beads 19 of the spout engaging seal portion of the sleeve 18 when the spout 5 is in its most proximal, open configuration, a sealing member 21 for engaging the stem of the center post 8 to create a seal when the spout 5 is in its most distal, closed configuration;
d) an end cap 7 in mating engagement with the distal end of the center post 6, wherein the end cap 7 closes the distal end of the product chamber 3 in the inactivated state; and
e) a dust cover 2 that covers the spout 5, sleeve 12 and part of the base 1 in the inactivated configuration, wherein the dust cover 2 comprises one or more helical thread forms 13 which interfering engage with one or more helical thread forms 14 of the sleeve 12, wherein a twisting motion of the dust cover 2 activates the closure device, wherein the activation of the closure device results from axial movement of the sleeve 12 in a downward or distal direction, wherein the center post 8 applies a pressing force on the end cap 7, wherein a seal between the end cap 7 and inner wall of the product chamber 3 is broken, wherein one or more ingredients housed in the closure device are released into a receiving vessel.
In another embodiment, the invention provides methods of supplying or dispensing a dose of one or more ingredients, formulations or products to a user comprising: attaching a closure device of the invention to a receiving vessel; dispensing the one or more ingredients, formulations or products therefrom into the attached receiving vessel by twisting and removing the dust cover 2; and opening the spout 5 on the closure device for consuming the contents of the receiving vessel through the spout 5, wherein the spout is opened by a user applying a pulling force to open the spout 5.
In another embodiment, the invention provides methods of supplying or dispensing a dose of one or more ingredients, formulations or products to a user comprising: attaching a closure device of the invention to a receiving vessel; twisting the dust cover 2 and dispensing the one or more ingredients, formulations or products therefrom into the attached receiving vessel; removing the dust cover 2; opening the spout 5 by twisting/rotating the spout; and consuming the contents of the receiving vessel through the spout 5.
Details of the components and features of the closure devices of the present invention are described more fully below.
BaseThe closure devices of the present invention comprise a base 1 comprising a product chamber 3 for storing one or more ingredients, formulations or products and a closure skirt 4 for attaching the closure device to a receiving vessel.
In some embodiments, the base 2 has a proximal top which acts as a sleeve stop 16 which prevents further downward movement of the sleeve, a distal end, one or more side walls and an internal volume.
In some embodiments, the proximal top of the base comprises one or more openings 31 that enable dispensing the contents of a receiving vessel for consumption from the receiving vessel through the base 1, sleeve 12, spout 5 and ultimately the outlet 17 of the spout 5.
In some embodiments, the proximal top of the base 1 is covered by the sleeve 12. The one or more side walls of the base 2 have one or more inner and outer diameters. In one embodiment, each of the inner diameter of the side walls and the outer diameter of the side walls are substantially the same along their respective length from the proximal top to the distal end of the base 1. In other embodiments, there is more than one of each of the inner and outer diameters of the side walls along the length of the side walls from the proximal end to the distal end of the base 1. In some embodiments, the side walls have a distal annular edge at their distal end. In one embodiment the side walls of the base are curved to give the base a tubular shape. The tubular shape of the base 2 may be conical including any tapered or multi-sized tubular or cylindrical form. In another embodiment the side walls of the base 1 are flat having three or more side walls forming an angular tube shape. The inner diameter of the side walls at the distal end of the base 1 interferingly engages the outer diameter of the end cap 7.
In some embodiments, the base comprises a sleeve engaging portion 30 that engages the base with the sleeve. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the side walls of the sleeve engaging portion of the base 30 interferingly engage the inner diameter of the side walls of the base seal portion of the sleeve 28. In some embodiments, the sleeve engaging portion of the base 30 comprises one or more distal end base beads 23 which provide radial interference on the inner diameter of the base seal portion of the sleeve 28.
In some embodiments, the distal end of the base 1 comprises a distal annular edge of the side walls. When the closure device of the present invention is in an inactivated state (i.e., prior to point-of-use dispensing of stored one or more ingredients, formulations or products), the distal end of the base 1 is closed by the end cap 7 and/or an end plate seal or combination thereof. When the closure devices of the present invention are in an activated state (i.e., after point-of-use dispensing of stored one or more ingredients, formulations or products), the distal end of the base 1 is open to allow the dispensed one or more ingredients, formulations or products to combine with contents of a receiving vessel and to allow consumption of the combined contents of the receiving vessel. The distal end of the base housing 2 further comprises a dispensing port 58 when the closure device is in the activated state. Referring to
In some embodiments, the internal volume of the base 1 is used to store the one or more ingredients, formulations or products. Since there are openings in the base 1 that lead to the sleeve 12 and spout 5 portion of the closure device, the one or more ingredients, formulations or products can also be present in these spaces of the closure device in the inactivated state. The internal volume of the base is also referred to as the product chamber 3. In some embodiments the volume of the product chamber 3 is predetermined for dosing and supplying methods. The product chamber 3 has a proximal top, a distal end, and one or more side walls as described above for the base 1.
The type and form of the one or more ingredients, formulations or products stored in the product chamber 3 is unlimited. In some embodiments there is a single ingredient, formulation or product and in other embodiments there is a combination of ingredients, formulations and/or products. Non-limiting exemplary forms of ingredients, formulations or products include powders, dehydrated constituents, liquids, liquid concentrate and suspensions. Non-limiting examples of the types of ingredients, formulations or products that can be stored and dispensed from the closure devices of the present invention include dietary supplements (e.g., fiber and vitamins), sport nutrition ingredients (e.g., amino acids, fat burning agents, muscle builders), diet nutrition ingredients (e.g., appetite suppressants, fat burning agents, ingredients causing a feeling satiety), ingredients with anti-aging benefits, immune supporting ingredients (e.g., prebiotics, probiotics), energy boosting agents, stimulants, anti-oxidants and anti-hangover formulations.
The ingredients, formulations and products capable of being stored and dispensed from the closure devices of the present invention can also include medicaments, biologics, microorganisms, nutraceuticals, drugs, prodrugs and pharmaceuticals. It is desirable to formulate a point of use form of delivering medicine that avoids the need to swallow hard tablets or capsules, avoids bad taste associated with more traditional forms of medicines and maintains the product integrity.
Any of the one or more ingredients, formulations or products stored and dispensed by the closure devices of the present invention can be stored independently or in combination with other ingredients such as, for example, flavoring, sweetening, acidulants, excipients, preservatives and/or coloring agents.
Closure Skirt
The base 1 of the closure devices of the present invention further comprises a closure skirt 4. The closure skirt 4 is capable of engaging the neck finish or container opening of a receiving vessel to provide sealed closure of the receiving vessel neck or opening. In some embodiments, the closure skirt 4 has a greater diameter than the sleeve engaging portion of the base 30. The closure skirt 4 has a proximal top or deck, one or more peripheral side walls, and a distal annular edge. As shown in
The closure devices of the present invention comprise a sleeve 12. The sleeve engages the base 1 and spout 5 of the closure device. In some embodiments, the sleeve 12 is capable of moving in an axial direction relative to the base 1. In some embodiments, the sleeve comprises a center post 6 which acts on the end cap 7; a base seal portion of the sleeve 28 which engages the base 1; and a spout seal portion of the sleeve 18 which engages the spout 5. In some embodiments, the base seal portion of the sleeve 28 comprises one or more distal end sleeve beads 22 which provide radial interference on the outer diameter of the sleeve engaging portion of the base 30. In some embodiments, the spout seal portion of the sleeve 18 comprises one or more spout seal beads 19 which provide radial interference on the inner diameter of the lesser diameter of the spout 27.
In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the sleeve, such as the outer diameter of the base seal portion of the sleeve 28 comprises one or more sleeve helical thread forms 14 that engage with the inner diameter of the dust cover 2 (such as a dust cover helical thread forms 13) such that when the dust cover is rotated, this action drives the sleeve 12, including the center post 6 and end cap 7 in a downward direction. Downward vertical movement of the center post 6 moves the end cap 7 beyond the distal end of base 1 to effect release of one or more ingredients, formulations or products into a receiving vessel. In some embodiments, the dust cover 2 does not participate in moving the sleeve 12 in a downward direction. In some embodiments, the dust cover 2 can be removed, and the sleeve 12 twisted manually by a user, driving the sleeve 12 in a downward direction, resulting in release of the one or more ingredients, formulations or products into a receiving vessel.
Center Post
In some embodiments, the center post 6 has a cylindrical, tubular or conical shape. In some embodiments, the center post 6 has one or more outer diameters, a proximal stem of the center post 8, an intermediate portion and a distal end. In some embodiments the center post 6 further comprises one or more inner diameters. In some embodiments the outer and inner diameters of the center post 6 are variable along the length of the center post 6. In some embodiments, the proximal top of the stem 8 can be flat or rounded. In one embodiment, the proximal stem of the center post 8 has a greater outer diameter than the intermediate portion, distal end and/or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the diameter of the stem of the center post 8 is greater than at least the intermediate portion of the center post in a stepped, non-tapered fashion such that there is a distal annular edge of the stem. In other embodiments, the outer diameter of the center post 6 is substantially the same along its length. In some embodiments, the distal end of the center post 6 is configured to be in mating engagement with the end cap 7. In some embodiments, the center post 6 is configured to be in axial alignment within the product chamber 3.
Upon application of a user-actuated twisting force of the dust cover and/or sleeve, the center post 6 is capable of moving axially in a downward vertical or distal direction toward the distal end of the base 1. Distal movement of the center post 6 moves the end cap 7 in the downward or distal direction beyond the distal end of the base 1 to effect release of the one or more stored ingredients, formulations or products.
In some embodiments, the center post 6 is substantially rigid and not intended to bend or flex to a deformable position. In some embodiments, the rigidity of the center post 6 aids assembly so that it can readily accept the end cap 7 in interfering engagement. In some embodiments the center post 6 is intended to remain engaged in the end cap 7 and not be readily removed from the end cap 7. Upon application of user-actuated twisting force acting on the sleeve, the center post 6 forces the end cap 7 in a downward or distal direction beyond the distal end of the product chamber 3. In some embodiments, the strength of the center post 6 needs to be structurally sound enough to forcibly remove the end cap 7 from the product chamber 3 where there is diametrical interference.
In some embodiments, the center post 6 is attached, e.g., to the inside diameter of the side walls of the sleeve 12 by one or more center post collar support ribs 15. In some embodiments, the center post collar support ribs 15 can radiate from the inner diameter of the base seal portion of the sleeve 28, spout seal portion of the sleeve 18, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the center post collar support ribs 15 are static and maintain the static position of the center post relative to the other sleeve portions. In other embodiments, there are optionally one or more flexible hinge leg members in addition to or in lieu of center post collar support ribs 15 to help maintain axial alignment of the center post 6. In some embodiments, the flexible hinge leg members can be attached to the inner diameter of the base seal portion of the sleeve 28, or the spout seal portion of the sleeve 18 or combinations thereof and radiate therefrom and attach to the center post 6 when used in lieu of center post collar support ribs 15. In some embodiments, flexible hinge leg members can be attached to the side wall of the product chamber 3, the inner diameter of the base seal portion of the sleeve 28, the spout seal portion of the sleeve 18 or combinations thereof and radiate therefrom and attach to the center post 6 when used in addition to the center post collar support ribs 15. In some embodiments, flexible hinge leg members can radiate perpendicularly from the inner diameter of the product chamber 3. In other embodiments, flexible hinge leg members can radiate at a non-perpendicular angle. In some embodiments, flexible hinge leg members can attach to the proximal stem of the center post 8. In some embodiments, the flexible hinge leg members attach to the intermediate portion of the center post. The flexible hinge leg members are capable of flexing and bending. In some embodiments, when the center post 6 is in its inactivated position (i.e., prior to point-of-use dispensing of stored one or more ingredients, formulations or products), the flexible hinge leg members are not in a flexed or bent position. In some embodiments, the flexible hinge leg members bend in the distal direction as the center post 6 is moved in the distal direction by a user-actuated force. When the center post 6 is in its activated position (i.e., after point-of-use dispensing of stored one or more ingredients, formulations or products), the flexible hinge leg member is in a flexed or bent position.
Stem of the Center Post
The stem of the center post 8 is the proximal end of the center post 6. The stem of the center post 8 physically closes the outlet 17 when it is in interfering engagement with the outlet 17. The stem of the center post 8 is in interfering engagement with the outlet 16 when the spout 5 is in its downward or distal most position.
End Cap
The end cap 7 is situated at the distal end of the product chamber 3 in an inactivated state. In some embodiments, the end cap 7 has a proximal top, peripheral radial edge and distal end.
In some embodiments, the proximal top of the end cap 7 is in mating engagement with the distal end of the center post 6 as exemplified in
In some embodiments, the peripheral radial edge of the end cap 7 is in interfering engagement with the inner diameter of the side walls of the product chamber 3. The interfering engagement is sufficient to provide sealing integrity alone and maintain the one or more ingredients, formulations or products in the product chamber 3 of the base 1 until actuation of the dispenser. In some embodiments, the peripheral radial edge of the end cap 7 and inner diameter of side walls of the product chamber 3 are made of highly polished radial mating surfaces 11. These highly polished radial faces 11 when in intimate contact provide superior seal integrity against moisture and maintain product integrity. In some embodiments, the end cap 7 is comprised of propylene and/or ethylene materials.
Upon application of a force upon the center post 6, the center post 6, moving axially in a downward or distal direction, moves the end cap 7 in the downward or distal direction below or distal to the distal end of the product chamber 3. Distal movement of the end cap 7 reveals a dispensing port 58 at the distal end of the product chamber 3. In the inactivated state (i.e., prior to point-of-use dispensing of stored one or more ingredients, formulations or products) the end cap 7 closes the distal end of the product chamber 3. In the actuated state (i.e., after point-of-use dispensing of stored one or more ingredients, formulations or products), the distal end of the product chamber 3 is an open dispensing port 58.
In some embodiments, the proximal top of the end cap 7 further comprises a tapered end cap surface 9 also referred to as seal shoulder 9. The downward angled tapered end cap surface 9 facilitates dispensing of the one or more ingredients, formulations or products of the product chamber 3 into the receiving vessel.
In some embodiments, the end cap 7 can be configured to include a liner in between the distal end of the center post 6 and the proximal surface of the center post receiving portion 10 in mating engagement with the distal end of the center post 6. The liner can provide a sealing interface and added removal resistance. In some embodiments, a small foil disc with materials coated on the outside can be cut and placed into the bottom of the proximal center post receiving portion 10 of the end cap 7 formed to accept the center post 6. In some embodiments, the liner welds to both portions, the end cap 7 and the center post 6 at the center post receiving portion 10 using an RF (radio frequency) sealing process common in the foil liner applications. Welding with this type of liner has several advantages (i) the strength of the weld is very strong such that the end cap 7 cannot be readily separated from the center post 6; (ii) the weld is more targeted (than spin welding, sonic welding and heat stake welding), thus avoiding adhering other nearby portions of the device like the outer portions of the end cap 7 to the base 1.
In some embodiments, the distal end of the end cap 7 comprises a distal annular edge. In some embodiments, the distal end of the end cap 7 further comprises a flat end surface. In some embodiments the distal end of the end cap 7 is configured to have one or more distal recesses 33 as illustrated in
In another embodiment, the center post receiving portion 10 comprises two distally located spaces 34 (
In some embodiments, the center post 6 and end cap 7 are configured in dimension such that the end cap 7 is flush with the distal end of product chamber 3 in the inactivated state. In other embodiments, the center post 6 and end cap 7 are configured in dimension such that the end cap 7 sits proximal to the distal end of product chamber 3 in the inactivated state (
End Plate Seal
In some embodiments an end plate seal is used to provide a protective seal at the distal annular edge of the product chamber 3. The end plate seal extends across the distal end of the product chamber 3. The end plate seal is sealed at the distal annular edge of the product chamber 3. The end plate seal may be made from a variety materials that are thin and frangible in nature to shear or fracture upon application of a force. In some embodiments, the center post 6 engaging the end cap 7 applies force against the end plate seal causing the end plate to shear and fracture. In some embodiments a foil liner is applied at the distal end of the end cap 7 and distal end of the product chamber 3 to seal the interior of the base 1. In some embodiments, the closure created by the end plate seal is used to add to product efficacy and provide tamper evidence if prematurely breached.
In other embodiments, a foil end plate seal is supported by plastic across the entire face of the foil to provide sufficient mechanical support to pass common shipping, filing and drop tests and to maintain product integrity. Use of a supporting plastic also allows for a majority of the foil to be intimately attached to the material used to mold the closure device components, such as polypropylene (PP) and high density polyethylene (HDPE) polymers, thereby reducing the amount of foil particulates falling into the receiving vessel upon dispensing the contents of the product chamber 3. In some embodiments, the plastic lining also reinforces the seal for purposes of ingredient freshness and product integrity.
SpoutThe closure devices of the present invention comprise a spout 5 for dispensing the product for consumption. In some embodiments, the spout 5 comprises an outlet 17. Other embodiments and details of the components and features of the spout 5 of the present invention are described below.
In some embodiments, the spout 5 is capable of moving axially in downward and upward directions. In some embodiments, the spout 5 is moved by pulling forces to open the spout 5 pushing forces to close the spout 5. In other embodiments the spout 5 is moved by rotation, wherein one or more helical elements on the spout and/or sleeve cooperate to move the spout in an upward and downward direction relative to the sleeve depending on whether the spout is being opened or closed. Application of a user-actuated rotating/twisting or pulling force applied to the spout 5, moves the spout 5 in an upward direction toward the proximal end of the closure device. The upward movement of the spout 5 concomitantly causes the stem of the center post 8 to break the seal with the sealing member 21 and expose the outlet 17 of the spout. Application of a user-actuated rotating/twisting or pushing force will move the spout in the down, distal direction, closing the spout.
In some embodiments, in the inactivated and actuated states, the spout 5 interferingly engages the outer diameter of the side wall of the spout seal portion of the sleeve 18. In some embodiments, the one or more inner diameters of the side walls of the spout 5, e.g., the lesser diameter of the spout 27 interferingly engages the one or more outer diameters of the side wall of the spout seal portion of the sleeve 18. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the side walls of the lesser diameter of the spout 27 are threaded, the outer diameter of the side walls of the spout seal portion of the sleeve 18 are threaded, or both are threaded. In some embodiments, the one or more inner diameters of the side walls of the lesser diameter of the spout 27 comprise one or more distal end spout beads 20. The one or more distal end spout beads 20 interferingly engage the outer diameters of the side walls of the spout seal portion of the sleeve 18 to provide a leak free seal. In some embodiments the one or more outer diameters of the side walls of the spout seal portion of the sleeve 18 further comprise one or spout seal beads 19. The one or more spout seal beads 19 interferingly engage the inner diameters of the side walls of the spout, e.g., the lesser diameter of the spout 27 to provide a leak free seal. In some other embodiments there is a combination of one or more spout seal beads 19 and one or more distal end spout beads 20. In one embodiment, the distal end spout bead 20 is situated distally to the spout seal bead 19. When the spout 5 is in its activated and proximal most position, the one or more distal end spout bead 20 interferingly engage the spout seal bead 19. When the spout 5 is in its closed state and downward or distal most position, the one or more distal end spout beads 20 do not engage the one or more spout seal beads 19.
In some embodiments, the closure device of the present invention comprises a pull open spout. Some embodiments with a pull open spout are shown in
In one embodiment, there is a pull open spout comprising a greater diameter of the spout 24, a lesser diameter of the spout 27, and an outlet 17. In some embodiments, the spout is configured with a proximally located outlet 17 which is capable of receiving the stem of the center post 8. In some embodiments, after dispensing the one or more ingredients, formulations or products of the product chamber 3 into a receiving vessel, the stem of the center post 8 is substantially flush with the proximal top of the spout 5 and in interfering engagement with the outlet 17, thereby closing the spout. After dispensing, axial or vertical movement of the spout 5 in the upward direction disengages the stem of the septum 8 from the outlet 17 and opens the spout. Axial or vertical movement of the spout 5 in the downward direction re-closes the spout such that the stem of the center post 8 is in interfering engagement with the outlet 17 again. In some embodiments, the spout comprises a sealing member 21 that facilitates closure of the spout 5 to create a high integrity seal.
In some embodiments, the proximal top of the spout 5 can be flat or angled. In some embodiments the proximal top of the spout 5 has a greater diameter than the side walls of the spout that are more distal to the outlet 17. The greater diameter of the proximal top of the spout 24 can make it easier for an end user to grasp the spout 5 to pull it open. In other embodiments the proximal top of the spout has substantially the same diameter as the side walls of the spout portion that engages the sleeve 12.
The one or more side walls of the spout 5 have one or more inner and outer diameters. The one or more inner diameters of the side walls of the spout 5 interferingly engage the one or more outer diameters of the side walls of the sleeve 12. In some embodiments, the one or more inner diameters of the side walls of the spout 5 are threaded, the one or more outer diameters of the spout seal portion of the sleeve are threaded, or the combination is threaded. In some embodiments, the one or more inner diameters of the side walls of the spout 5 further comprise one or more distal end spout beads 20. The one or more distal end spout beads 20 interferingly engage the outer diameters of the side walls of the spout seal portion of the sleeve 18 to provide a leak free seal. In some embodiments, the one or more outer diameters of the side walls of the spout seal portion of the sleeve 18 further comprise one or more spout seal beads 19. The one or more spout seal beads 19 interferingly engage the inner diameters of the side walls of the spout to provide a leak free seal. In some embodiments, there is a combination of one or more spout seal beads 19 and one or more distal end spout beads 20. In one embodiment a distal end spout beads 20 is situated distally to a spout seal beads 19. When the spout 5 is in its upward or proximal most position, the one or more spout seal beads 19 interferingly engage the one or more distal end spout beads 20 to stop further upward movement of the spout 5.
In some embodiments, the side walls of the spout 5 further comprise one or more radial protrusions. The one or more radial protrusions are used to make it easier for an end user to grasp the spout for pulling open and pushing close the spout.
Outlet
The outlet 17 is an opening through which contents of a receiving vessel move through for consumption by an end user. In some embodiments, the outlet 17 sits in the proximal top of the spout 5. In some embodiments, the outlet 17 comprises an inner radial edge. In some embodiments, the outlet 17 is capable of receiving and engaging the stem of the center post 8. In some embodiments, the inner radial edge of the outlet 17 interferingly engages the outer diameter of the stem of the center post 8. The outer diameter of the stem of the center post 8 engages the inner radial edge of the outlet 17 to close the outlet 17. When the stem of the center post 8 is disengaged from the inner radial edge of the outlet 17 there is an opening connecting the product chamber 3 to the outlet 17 to allow contents of a receiving vessel to be consumed.
Dust CoverThe closure device of the present invention comprises a dust cover 2. In the inactivated state, in some embodiments, the dust cover 2 covers the spout, sleeve and portions of the base. In some embodiments, the dust cover comprises one or more dust cover helical thread forms 13 which engage one or more sleeve helical thread forms 14. Rotation or twisting of the dust cover drives the sleeve and end cap in a downward direction, from the closed position to an open position, resulting in release of the contents of the product chamber into a receiving vessel. In some embodiments, the dust cover 2 can then be removed from the base. In some embodiments, the spout 5 can be pulled open (or rotated/twisted) by a user so that the combined contents of the receiving vessel can be emptied through the spout 5.
In some embodiments, the dust cover is held in position on the closure by a series of lug 56 and groove 57 combinations configured to move/work in combination with the sleeve 12 such that the dust cover is not readily removed from the base until appropriate lug 56 and groove 56 combinations are aligned. Referring to
In some embodiments, the dust cover comprises elements that allow it to be easily grabbed and/or twisted. In some embodiments, one or more outer gripping lugs 26 can be spaced around the dust cover 2, as shown in
In some embodiments, the distal end of the dust cover 2 engages the deck of the base 2. In some embodiments, a rim feature 29 on the closure skirt deck 35 is positioned at the outer diameter of the dust cover 2. In some embodiments, the rim feature 29 helps to stabilize the dust cover 2 and properly align it on the closure device.
Receiving VesselIn some embodiments, the closure devices of the present invention are configured to attach to and provide sealing engagement to a variety of receiving vessels. The receiving vessel may be any container, receptacle, vessel of varying size and shape capable of being attached to the closure devices of the present application. It may be constructed from glass, plastic or other similar material. In some embodiments, the receiving vessel has a threaded neck for attachment thereto. In some embodiments, the receiving vessel is attached to a closure device of the present invention by a manufacturer. In other embodiments, the receiving vessel is attached to a closure device of the present invention at the point of use by an end user. In some embodiments, the receiving vessel has a pliable seal at the land of the vessel opening that can be removed by an end user at point of use before attachment. The pliable seal at the land of the vessel opening is used to maintain product integrity of the receiving vessel. In other embodiments, the receiving vessel has a removable screw cap or such other removable top that once removed it is capable of attaching to the closure devices of the present invention.
Non-limiting exemplary receiving vessels include bottles, other beverage containers, cartons, canteens, stand-up pouches, cans, flasks, glass bottles, and the like.
The type and form of one or more ingredients, formulations or products of the receiving vessel is unlimited. Non-limiting exemplary forms of ingredients of the receiving vessel includes beverages, drinks, infusions, liquids, shots, suspensions, syrups and swills. Non-limiting examples of the one or more ingredients, formulations or products of the receiving vessel include water, sports drinks, meal replacement beverages, diet beverages, energy drinks. The receiving vessel may also contain excipients, acidulants, sweeteners, flavoring agents and coloring agents for easier consumption by the end-user of a medicament, drug or pharmaceutical dispensed therein.
Universal Closure SkirtIn some embodiments, the closure devices described above may be used in combination with a universal closure skirt to provide sealing engagement with a variety of container neck finishes and container opening sizes of a receiving vessel. Universal closure skirts are disclosed, for example, in WO 2011/057111, which is incorporated herein by reference. The universal closure skirts (
In some embodiments, the inner diameter 39 of the side walls 36 of the closure skirt further comprises one or more deformable depending protrusions 41 of varying dimension to provide a one-fit-many aspect of the closure devices of the present invention. In some embodiments, the deformable depending protrusions 41 are thin, flexible and deformable such that the closure can accept a variety of threaded neck and opening diameters and thread profiles. The one or more deformable depending protrusions 41 provide application and removal torque. In one embodiment, the one or more deformable depending protrusions comprise radial rings 42, helix 43 or combinations thereof. In one embodiment as shown in
The deformable ribs (e.g., 44, 45, 46) are placed in separation on the inner diameter of the side walls to provide application and removal torque. The axial ribs are compliant through their vertical length and will shear readily from the top wall to provide a hinged deformable member with the side wall of the closure. The axial ribs are attached to the underside proximal top end of the closure for manufacturing purposes. The axial ribs are designed in such a manner that the proximal end tears or breaks away from the closure when the closure is being applied to a container. Attachment at the underside of the proximal top 35 is in one embodiment sharp such that is there is no fillet radii. In another embodiment, there is a small fillet radii where the side walls 36 meet the underside of the proximal top 35 as long as it will not interferingly engage with the neck or opening of a receiving vessel when the closure is applied.
In some embodiments, the depth of a deformable depending protrusion from the side wall can range from about 0.005 to about 1.0 inches. In one embodiment, the depth from the side wall is about 0.040 inches. In some embodiments, the thickness of an axial rib is from about 0.005 inches to about 0.050 inches. In one embodiment, the thickness of the axial rib is about 0.020 inches.
In another embodiment, the universal closure skirt comprises a proximal top 35, one or more peripheral side walls 36, a distal annular edge 37 and a depending plug seal 47. The inner diameter 39 of the side walls 36 is non-threaded and has no deformable depending protrusions of varying dimensions 41-46. In other embodiments, there is more than one spacer rib, and/or more than one thread engagement lug, each as described below.
Plug Seal
As shown in
The plug seal depends from the underside of the proximal top 35 of the closure. The dimensions of the plug seal 47 may vary. In some embodiments, the plug seal 47 has a longer and thinner lower or distal lead in section 48 that can be readily folded or deformed out of location providing interfering engagement for larger inner diameter bottles and a thicker upper or proximal radial sealing section 49 for smaller inner diameter bottles. In some embodiments, the plug seal 47 has a smaller diameter at its distal end with increasing diameter moving toward the deck or proximal top of the closure skirt. The configuration of the plug seal 47 can be bean-shaped, angular or other shapes and geometries to provide interfering sealing engagement for container necks with openings of a smaller inner diameter at the lower distal end of the plug seal and interfering sealing engagement for container necks with openings of a larger inner diameter at the upper proximal end of the plug seal.
In another aspect, the present invention provides an improved plug seal shape that facilitates manufacturing. Viewed in cross section of
In some embodiments, the length of the plug seal from its proximal end to the distal end is substantially the same length as the side walls of the closure skirt 36 such that the distal edge of the internal closure diameter is substantially flush with the distal annular edge of the side walls. In other embodiments, the length of the plug seal 47 from its proximal end to the distal end is less than that of the side walls of the closure skirt 36.
In some embodiments as shown in
In another embodiment, there is a plurality of sealing beads at varied positions on the plug seal. In some embodiments, the sealing beads are radial bumps that interferingly engage the inner diameter of the opening of a container to close the opening. In some embodiments, the sealing beads can be positioned at various locations and of varying sizes to engage the neck or opening of a container of various sizes. In one embodiment, the sealing beads are of a smaller size at the distal end of the plug and increase in size moving toward the proximal top of the seal plug. The sealing beads work such that if a closure does not go all the way down to engage the top of the neck or opening of a container, then a set of sealing beads engage the internal diameter of the opening or neck of a container to create a seal and close the opening. In one embodiment, the smaller and more distal sealing beads will engage the inner diameter of smaller openings and the larger more proximal sealing beads engage the inner diameter of larger openings.
Spacer Rib
As shown in
Thread Engagement Lug
As illustrated in
Spacing Diameter
In some embodiments, the universal closure skirt comprises a spacing diameter 51 that provides clearance for the neck of a container engaged by the universal closure skirt. The spacing diameter allows for the plug seal to move as needed for a proper fit. The spacing diameter spans from the inner diameter 4 of the sidewalls 36 of the closure skirt to the outer diameters of the plug seal 47. For larger diameter container neck or opening sizes, in some embodiments, the spacing diameter is larger sized.
Thinning Ribs
As illustrated in
Foil Seal
In yet other embodiments, the closure skirt of the present invention comprises a distal foil seal to provide sterility to the inside of the closure skirt and underside of the closure housing. The foil seal spans across the outer most and distal most diameter of the closure device.
Container Openings and Neck Finishes
The closure skirt can be designed to fit a variety of neck finishes, thread profiles and container opening sizes of various containers/receiving vessels. The container may have a neck or other suitable structure defining the container mouth or opening. The neck may have a circular cross-sectional configuration or some other configuration like an oval or other elliptical, angular cross-sectional shape. The universal closure skirt may be configured to provide sealing engagement with container necks of varying dimension. In some embodiments, the universal closure skirt is configured to provide sealing engagement with container necks having a diameter from about 10 mm to about 45 mm.
Tamper Evident and Protective ComponentsIt is another aspect of the present invention to provide closure devices as described above that indicate to the end user whether inadvertent release of stored one or more ingredients, formulations or products has occurred and that protects the user from accidental, inadvertent or premature dispensing.
Tamper Evident BandsIn some embodiments of the closure devices of the present invention, the closure skirt 4 has a frangible tamper evident (TE) band removably attached to its distal annular edge 37 that interferingly engages with the neck of an attached receiving vessel to prevent removal of the closure device. In one embodiment, there is a pull tab that when pulled breaks the TE band away from its engagement with the closure skirt 4. In another embodiment, the TE band is attached by one or more break-away tabs such that application of a twisting motion of the closure skirt 4 in a counter clock wise direction breaks the TE band away. A TE band that is not in interfering engagement with the receiving vessel at point of use is indicative of tampering. The closure skirt 4 can be used with or without the depending tamper evident skirt band.
In some embodiments of the closure device, the closure comprises a frangible spout TE band removably attached to the spout, such as the distal annular edge of the spout 5. In some embodiments, the spout TE band can interferingly engage a radial bead on the sleeve and/or spout. In some embodiments, the spout TE band surrounds the sleeve 12 to prevent inadvertent or premature upward pulling of the spout 5. In one embodiment, there is a pull tab that when pulled breaks the spout TE band away from its engagement with the sleeve and/or spout.
A removed spout TE band or a spout TE band that is not in interfering engagement with the distal end of the spout 5 at point of use is indicative of tampering.
TE bands can also be attached to the dust cover 2 to prevent inadvertent actuation. The TE bands can be configured with a pull tab which can be removed prior twisting and/or removal of the dust cover 2.
MaterialsIn some embodiments, the materials of the closure devices of the present invention are primarily comprised of propylene and ethylene materials or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the material is polypropylene (PP) and/or polyethylene (PE) materials. In some embodiments the material is a high density polyethylene (HDPE). Alternate materials of flexible nature can also be employed like thermoplastic elastomers and others of a lower modulus sufficient to provide flexibility. In another embodiment the dispensing closure device is made with materials that block UV light.
Some additional embodiments of the invention are included in the following paragraphs.
Methods of Dispensing a DoseIn another aspect of the invention there are methods of supplying or dispensing a dose or one or more ingredients, formulations or products comprising attaching a closure device of the present invention to a receiving vessel; dispensing the stored one or more ingredients, formulations or products therefrom into the attached receiving vessel; and opening the spout for consuming the contents of the receiving vessel through the spout.
In one embodiment, there is provided a method of supplying or dispensing a dose or one or more ingredients, formulations or products to a user comprising: attaching a closure device of the invention to a receiving vessel; dispensing the one or more ingredients, formulations or products therefrom into the attached receiving vessel by twisting and removing the dust cover; and opening the spout on the closure device for consuming the contents of the receiving vessel through the spout, wherein the spout is opened by a pulling force or twisting/rotating force by the end user.
ApplicationsIn some embodiments, the dispensing closure of the present invention is designed to be filled with a first component, and used for storing the first component therein until, and supplying the first component for admixture or combination with a second component contained in a receiving vessel at, point-of-use by end user. In some embodiments, the first and second components may be in the form of a single compound, mixture, solution, capsule, liquid, slurry, powder, tablet, water soluble, water dispersible, or any other containable components, ingredients, formulation or products. In some embodiments, the first component is added to the second component by the end-user. The ability to select from an assortment of pre-packaged first components allows the end user to purchase and store first and second components separately. The first and second components may also be packaged together. The invention is useful for example, to keep non-perishable second components at room temperature, and to keep first components under appropriate, possibly separate, storage, for later addition to the second component. In some embodiments, the present invention is useful for first components that are sensitive, like moisture-sensitive or those that interact with the second component by forming by-products that change the usefulness of the combined components, e.g., loss or change of strength or value with time after combination. The closure devices of the present invention are useful for maintaining separation of first components that may require special storage and/or handling until just before addition to a second component, e.g., refrigeration, desiccation, or heating. The invention is also useful for adding unstable and/or sterile components to a second component, like a beverage, liquid enteral nutrition or medicine, for example, adding vitamins or beneficial gastrointestinal microorganisms to fruit juice, milk, water and medicine. Further non-limiting illustrations of how the invention is useful are provided below.
BeveragesThe closure device can comprise ingredients useful for mixing with, adding to, preparing, or supplementing beverages, liquids or drinks of various types and uses. Non-limiting examples of some types of beverage formulations that can be prepared using the dispensing device include hangover prevention, rehydration, antioxidants, probiotics, immunity boosting, energy promoting, wellness promoting, daily vitamin supplements, daily mineral supplements, bone health, gut health, beauty from within, skin health, joint health, and endurance, superfruits, superfoods, superberries, botanicals, greens, herbs, extracts, prebiotics, mental acuity, weight loss, nutrient supplements, eye health, carotenoids, sports nutrition, muscle building, free amino acids, workout formulations, relaxation, anti-stress, diabetic safe, heart health, good circulation, performance, and recovery.
In one embodiment the closure device comprises ingredients to prepare reduced calorie beverages. In some embodiments, the beverages will comprise a non-nutritive sweetener, such as, for example, erythritol, D-tagatose, or one or more steviosides. In various aspects of the invention, the one or more steviosides are selected from the group consisting of Stevioside, Rebaudioside A, Rebaudioside B, Rebaudioside C, Dulcoside A, Rubusoside, Steviolbioside, transglucosylation derivatives thereof, Stevia extract, and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments the steviosides comprises a Stevia extract. In some embodiments, non-nutritive sweeteners are selected from aspartame, acesulfame salts, saccharins, cyclamates, sucralose, alitame, neotame, steviosides, glycyrrhizin, Lo Han Guo, neohesperidin dihydrochalcone, monatin, monellin, thaumatin, and brazzein, and the sugar alcohol is selected from sorbitol, mannitol, lactitol, maltitol, xylitol, erythritol and combinations thereof.
The types of beverages suitable for use with the closure devices of the present invention include but are not limited to soft drinks, coffee beverages, tea beverages, powdered soft drinks, liquid concentrates, flavored waters, enhanced waters, fruit juice and fruit juice flavored drinks, and sport drinks
It is possible to include any other ingredients typically used in reduced-calorie beverages in the closure devices of the present invention. For example, it is possible to include, without limitation, acidulants, flavors, soluble low-calorie fibers such as polydextrose, Fibersol, arabinogalactan, chitosan, chitin, xanthan, pectin, cellulosics, konjac, gum arabic, modified starch, soy fiber, inulin, inulose, hydrolyzed guar, guar gum, beta-glucan, carageenan, locust bean gum, alginate, polyglycol alginate, foam stabilizing agents such as yucca or yucca/quillaia extracts, salts such as sodium, calcium and potassium chlorides, food grade surfactants such as monoglycerides, diglycerides, lecithin and fractions thereof, and synthetic surfactants such as Tweens, Spans, diacetyltartaric esters, citric acid esters, etc.
Nutritive sweeteners can also be included in addition to, or in place of non-nutritive sweeteners. A “nutritive” sweetener is one which provides significant caloric content in typical usage amounts, i.e., more than about 4 calories per gram of dry weight. Such sweeteners include, without limitation, fructose, sucrose, dextrose, maltose, trehalose, rhamnose, corn syrups and fructo-oligosaccharides.
In another embodiment, closure device can comprise ingredients useful for energy drinks or health beverages. Such ingredients can include, for example, free amino acids, vitamins, minerals and trace elements, electrolytes, simple and complex carbohydrates, and flavoring aids. Amino acids that are useful can include L-isoleucine, L-leucine, L-valine, L-lysine, L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-threonine, and L-tryptophan, L-alanine, L-arginine, L-aspartic acid, L-glutamic acid, L-aminoacetic acid, L-histidine, L-proline, L-serine, L-tyrosine, and L-cysteine. Nutrient factors such as vitamins and similar compounds, can be included, specifically vitamin A, vitamin D3, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, and vitamin K1. Exemplary electrolytes include sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium. Suitable sources of the electrolytes include, but are not limited to, sodium chloride, potassium phosphate, potassium citrate, magnesium succinate and calcium pantothenate.
In another embodiment, the closure device can comprise ingredients useful for energy drinks or health beverages. Such ingredients can include, for example, Resveratrol, Macqui Berry, herbal extracts, hibiscus, chamomile, superfruit extract, superberry extract, iron, superfood extracts, super berry, super fruit, super foods, hyaluronic acid, hydroxy proline, alpha lipoic acid, ginseng, ginkgo, herbs, glucosamine, chondroitin, Omega 3, Omega 6, Omega 9, fatty acids, DHA, EPA, CLA, fruit flavors, exotic flavors. This could include hydrophobic ingredients made into suspensions, dispersions or made water soluble.
The ingredients may also include minerals and trace elements, including iron, magnesium, copper, zinc, manganese, selenium, molybdenum, chromium, and iodide.
These ingredients can also include carbohydrates which serve as one of the principal caloric sources, in addition to the branched-chain amino acids. The carbohydrate content of the composition can be a combination of simple and complex saccharides. The simple sugars, or monosaccharides, may be glucose, trehalose, dextrose, fructose, or corn syrup. The disaccharide can be sucrose, but other disaccharides may be used. Complex carbohydrates include polyglucose and malto-dextrin. The flavoring aids may be any conventional flavoring aids that provide a pleasant-tasting composition when combined with the remainder of the ingredients. Conventional flavoring aids include sweeteners as described herein or natural or artificial grape, cherry, lemon, lime, punch, root beer, orange, grapefruit, strawberry, and other flavorings. The suitability of any particular flavoring aid in any particular composition of the present invention may be readily ascertained by means of a simple taste test.
Another embodiment of the closure device of the present invention is a storage and delivery system comprising a hangover protection formulation to admix with a liquid, resulting in a hangover preventative or hangover ameliorating beverage.
In one embodiment, there is provided a dispensing device of the present invention and one or more of following ingredient components selected from: ingredients for rehydration, electrolytes, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, herbs, anti-hangover ingredients, energy components, detoxification components, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, there is provided 1 a dispensing device of the present invention and one or more detoxification components, one or more rehydration ingredients and one or more ingredients to restore electrolyte balance. In another embodiment, the dispensing device of the present invention comprises an anti-hangover formulation comprising an ingredient selected from the group consisting of one or more B vitamins, one or more energy components, one or more electrolytes, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the anti-hangover formulation further comprises ingredients selected from the group consisting of flavoring agents, sweetening agents, acidulants, coloring agents and combinations thereof.
In some embodiments the anti-hangover ingredients comprise one or more components having preventative effects against at least one symptom of excess alcohol consumption, including headache, dizziness, nausea, dehydration, fatigue, cotton mouth, stress, bad mood, poor appearance, or poor health. Non-limiting examples of the one or more components having preventative effects against at least one symptom of excess alcohol consumption include, for example, glucarate, a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, or enantiomer thereof or a derivative thereof selected from a group consisting of d-glucaro-1,4-lactone, d-glucuronolactone, d-glucaro-6,3-lactone, d-glucuronic acid gamma lactone, and d-glucurone, calcium glucarate, potassium glucarate, magnesium glucarate, zinc glucarate, and ferrous glucarate, glucaric acid, glucuronolactone, milk thistle extract and glutathione.
B vitamins include, for example, Vitamin B1 (thiamine), Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (niacin or niacinamide, sometimes also known as vitamin
PP), Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine, pyridoxal, or pyridoxamine, or pyridoxine hydrochloride), Vitamin B7 (biotin), Vitamin B9 (folic acid), Vitamin B12 (various cobalamins; commonly cyanocobalamin).
Non-limiting examples of one or more energy components include, for example, caffeine, carbohydrates such as sugars-glucose, amino acids-proteins, fatty acids, choline, ginkgo biloba, L-glutamine, caffeine, ginseng, inositol, B vitamins, vitamin C, CoQ10, carnitine, ashwarghanda, Essentra, Sendera, Sensoril, taurine, glucuronolactone, guarana, tea, ribose, NADH, and other energy boosting drink ingredients.
Electrolytes include, for example, sodium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorous in elemental and organic acid forms e.g., magnesium citrate, magnesim chloride, potassium chloride, monopotassium phosphate.
Non-limiting examples of vitamins include one or more of B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin A, vitamin E, or combinations thereof.
Minerals include for example, one or more of forms of zinc, magnesium, potassium, sodium, calcium in all elemental and organic acid forms.
Antioxidants include, for example, one or more berry extracts, anthocyanins, grape seed oil, catechins, polyphenols, green coffee, green tea, matcha tea, b vitamins, CoQ10, vitamin C, zinc, vitamin E, or combinations thereof.
In some embodiments, the weight of the anti-hangover composition that is housed in the closure device is about 350-1500 mg, about 500-1250 mg, about 750-1000 mg, or about 800-900 mg and comprises about 0.1-5% by weight of B vitamins, about 2-25% by weight of an energy component, about 0.5-25% by weight of glucarate, a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, or enantiomer thereof or a derivative thereof, and about 40-95% by weight of electrolytes.
In some embodiments, the anti-hangover formulation comprises about 1-3% by weight of B vitamins, about 5-15% by weight of an energy component, about 3.0-15% by weight of glucarate, a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, or enantiomer thereof or a derivative thereof, and about 55-90% by weight of electrolytes. In some embodiments, the anti-hangover formulation comprises about 1-2% by weight of B vitamins, about 10-15% by weight of an energy component, about 5.0-10% by weight of glucarate, a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, or enantiomer thereof or a derivative thereof, and about 75-85% by weight of electrolytes.
In some embodiments, the B vitamins comprise about 1-3% by weight. In some embodiments, Vitamin B2 is present in an amount ranging from about 0.01-0.5% by weight, Vitamin B3 is present in an amount ranging from about 0.1-1% by weight, Vitamin B6 is present in an amount ranging from about 0.05-0.4% by weight, Vitamin B5 is present in an amount ranging from about 0.1-1.5% by weight, and Vitamin B12 is present in an amount ranging from about 0.0001-0.010% by weight.
In some embodiments, the energy component comprises about 2-25% by weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the amount of the energy component is about 5-15% by weight, about 7-13% by weight or about 10-12% by weight.
In some embodiments, the glucarate (or derivative thereof) component comprises about 0.5-25% by weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the amount of the glucarate (or derivative thereof) is about 3-15% by weight, about 5-10% by weight or about 6-8% by weight.
In some embodiments, the electrolytes comprise about 40-95% by weight of the formulation. In some embodiments, the electrolytes are about 55-90% by weight, about 70-85% by weight or about 80-85% by weight.
In some embodiments, the anti-hangover formulation comprises between about 150-700 mcg Vitamin B2, between about 0.5-15 mg Vitamin B3, between about 0.4-8.5 mg Vitamin B6, between about 2-75 mcg Vitamin B12, between about 1-10 mg Vitamin B5, between about 25-250 mg of caffeine, between about 10-250 mg glucaronolactone, and between about 275-900 mg of electrolytes (such as magnesium chloride, potassium chloride, monopotassium phosphate, and potassium glucarate).
In some embodiments, the anti-hangover formulation comprises between about 440 mcg Vitamin B2, about 5.3 mg Vitamin B3, about 1.3 mg Vitamin B6, about 6 mcg Vitamin B12, about 5 mg Vitamin B5, about 100 mg of caffeine, about 50 mg glucaronolactone, and about 650 mg of electrolytes (magnesium chloride, potassium chloride, monopotassium phosphate, and potassium glucarate). The anti-hangover formulation can further comprise the following ingredients selected from the group consisting of silicon dioxide, sucralose, fruit and vegetable juices, potassium, acesulfame, malic acid, citric acid, potassium D-glucarate, maltodextrin, magnesium chloride, potassium chloride, monopotassium phosphate, natural and artificial flavors, and combinations thereof.
Another embodiment of the closure device of the present invention is storage and delivery system to create a fiber enhanced water using either soluble or insoluble fibers (e.g. arabinogalactan, arabinoxylan, and others) independently or in combination with other ingredients, flavoring, sweetening, acidulants, and/or coloring agents.
Another embodiment of the closure device of the present invention is a storage and delivery system to create an immune supporting beverage using probiotics independently or in combination with other ingredients, flavoring, sweetening, acidulants, and/or coloring agents.
Another embodiment of the closure device of the present invention is a storage and delivery system to create beauty from within beverages using ingredients that can provide anti-aging benefits by ingestion of them within the created beverage independently or in combination with other ingredients, flavoring, sweetening, acidulants, and/or coloring agents.
Another embodiment of the closure device of the present invention is a storage and delivery system to create sports nutrition beverages targeting benefit areas such as recovery, stamina, strength, muscle building, etc. Ingredients that can be utilized for such benefits are branched chain amino acids, L-carnitine, creatine, glutamine, proteins, hydrolyzed proteins, free amino acids, and other such ingredients independently or in combination with other ingredients, flavoring, sweetening, acidulants, and/or coloring agents.
In another embodiment, the closure device of the present invention is useful for the creation of alternative forms or variants of existing brand beverages. Such variants include by non-limiting examples convenience forms, travel forms, dehydrated forms requiring only the addition of water, variants with an extended shelf-life, sugar-free forms, and variants with attributes of freshness, efficacy, potency, stability and consistency.
Another embodiment of the closure device of the present invention is the closure device marketed and sold separately and unattached from a receiving vessel needed to form a finished product. This has benefits in lowering shipping costs by avoiding shipping costs associated with shipping water or other liquids while also providing attributes such as freshness, convenience, efficacy, potency, consistency, for example.
Another embodiment of the closure device of the present invention is a storage and delivery system for ingredients that exhibit stability, solubility, and efficacy challenges when exposed to water or other liquids. Non-limiting examples of such ingredients include Glisodin (poor solubility and stability over time in water), probiotics (poor shelf life when exposed to water activity), and CoQ10 (poor stability and solubility over time in water).
Another embodiment of the closure device of the present invention is a storage and delivery device useful to for storing flavors and/or active ingredients for later introduction to dairy or dairy alternative beverages. This embodiment of the disclosure device facilitates introduction of ingredients and flavor systems that will not survive heat of pasteurization, and allows for marketing of multiple flavors and ingredient solutions without the expense and scheduling of adding such flavors and ingredients directly to the manufacturing line.
Another embodiment of the closure device of the present invention is a storage and delivery device useful for storing flavors and/or active ingredients for later introduction to alcohol beverage. This embodiment of the closure device facilitates introduction of ingredients and flavor systems that will not survive alcohol processing or that which exhibit poor long term solubility or stability in alcohol. This embodiment would also allow for marketing of multiple flavors and ingredient solutions without the expense and scheduling of adding such flavors and ingredients directly to the manufacturing line.
MedicinesThe closure devices of the present invention are useful for supplying a predetermined measured dose of liquid, water soluble, water dispersible, and water suspension pharmaceutical drugs and OTC medications. In one embodiment, the closure device is a storage and delivery system for dosing medicine in admixture with a liquid for ease of consumption independently or in combination with other ingredients, flavoring, sweetening, acidulants, and/or coloring agents. In another embodiment, the closure device is a storage and delivery system for combining a first medicinal component to a second medicinal component and/or pharmaceutical carrier independently or in combination with other ingredients, flavoring, sweetening, acidulants, and/or coloring agents at prescribed or desired point-of-use such that the efficacy of the medicinal component is maintained. In one embodiment, the end-user combines the first and second components together. In another embodiment, a pharmacist or like technician combines the first and second components for use by the end-user. In one embodiment, there is a closure device comprising amoxicillin in a concentrated liquid form for eventual dissolving in water to be used in place of other forms of the medicine.
Medical, Lab and Field Test UseThe closure devices of the present invention are useful for providing a measured dose of a reactant, reagent, antibody for admixture with a substance, chemicals or sample, including environmental, biologic, organic, chemical, inorganic samples, to provide a quantitative or qualitative analysis, color metric, test result, litmus or assay of itself, the sample or a third material in the substance or sample.
Potable WaterThe closure devices of the present invention can comprise ingredients useful for mixing with or adding to dirty water to prepare potable water. In one embodiment, the closure device of the present invention is a storage and delivery system comprising one or more anti-bacterial or antimicrobial agents, one or more antiparasitic agents, iodine, chlorine other water disinfecting agents, or combinations thereof, independently or in combination with other ingredients, flavoring, sweetening, acidulants, and/or coloring agents. Antibacterial agents include, for example, chlorine and antibiotic drugs like aminoglycosides, amoxicillin, ansamycins, beta-lactams, carbacephems, cephalosporins, fluoroquinilones, glycopeptides, macrolides, monobactams, nitrofurans, oxazolidinones, penicillins, quinolones, rifamycins, tetracyclines, sulphonamides, drugs against myobacteria and combinations thereof.
CosmeticsThe closure devices of the present invention are useful for the sequestering of materials until a desired point-of-use for mixing with, adding to, preparing health and beauty products, spa products or cosmetics. In one embodiment, the closure device of the present invention is a storage and delivery system comprising one or more hair colorants, bleachers, lighteners, conditioners, moisturizers, or combinations thereof.
Cleaning ProductsThe closure devices of the present invention can comprise concentrated cleaning ingredients useful for mixing with and adding to water to prepare cleaning solutions. In one embodiment, the closure comprises a glass cleaner or all purpose cleaner in concentrated form in cap for later introduction into water for use in cleaning. The cleaning chemicals that can be dispensed using the closure devices of the present invention can be used in such places as homes, schools and places of business on an everyday basis. Depending upon the ingredients, they may be toxic or safe. The cleaning ingredients can include, but are not limited to, a strong alkali, heavy-duty alkali, mild alkali, strong acid, mild acid, solvent, soaps and detergents.
Reference characters used in the specification and drawings:
While the invention has been described in connection with the disclosed embodiments, it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to the particular form set forth, but on the contrary, it is intended to cover such alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
Claims
1. A closure device comprising:
- a. a base;
- b. a sleeve;
- c. a spout for dispensing the contents of the closure device from a receiving vessel;
- d. an end cap; and
- e. a dust cover.
2. The closure device of claim 1, wherein the base comprises a product chamber for housing one or more ingredients.
3. (canceled)
4. The closure device of claim 1, wherein the sleeve comprises a center post, a base engaging seal portion and a spout engaging seal portion, wherein the base engaging seal portion comprises one or more distal end sleeve beads which provides radial interference on the outer diameter of the base, wherein the spout engaging seal portion comprises one or more spout seal beads which provides radial interference on the inner diameter of the spout, wherein the sleeve engages with the base and is capable of moving relative to the base in an axial direction, wherein the spout engages with the sleeve and is capable of moving relative to the sleeve in an axial direction.
5. (canceled)
6. (canceled)
7. The closure device of claim 1, wherein the base comprises one or more distal end base beads which provides radial interference on the inner diameter of the sleeve, and a closure skirt for engaging an opening or neck of a receiving vessel, the closure skirt comprising a proximal top, one or more peripheral side walls and a distal annular edge.
8. The closure device of claim 4, wherein the center post has one or more inner and outer diameters, a proximal stem, an intermediate portion and a distal end, wherein the distal end engages the end cap, wherein the proximal stem of the center post engages with a sealing member of the spout to form a seal, wherein the center post is in axial alignment within the product chamber and is capable of moving in a distal direction within the product chamber upon application of a user-actuated force.
9. (canceled)
10. (canceled)
11. The closure device of claim 4, wherein the outer diameter of the center post is attached to one or more center post collar support ribs.
12. The closure device of claim 1, wherein the base comprises a sleeve stop that engages the sleeve after the sleeve has moved relative to the base in an axial direction and which prevents further movement of the sleeve relative to the base.
13. The closure device of claim 1, wherein the distal end of the center post is in mating engagement with the end cap comprising a proximal top, peripheral radial edge and distal end, wherein the proximal top of the end cap comprises a center post receiving portion, wherein the center post is in mating engagement with the center post receiving portion of the end cap.
14. The closure device of claim 1, wherein the inner diameter of the product chamber has polished radial mating surfaces.
15. The closure device of claim 1, wherein the spout comprises an outlet, one or more sealing members which engages the stem of the center post, and one or more distal end spout beads which engages a spout seal portion of the sleeve, wherein the spout moves relative to the sleeve axially in proximal and distal directions.
16. (canceled)
17. The closure device of claim 1, wherein the stem of the center post contacts one or more sealing members of the spout, resulting in a seal between the center post and spout when the closure is in an inactive configuration.
18. The closure device of claim 1, wherein the spout comprises a proximal top, a greater diameter of the spout, a lesser diameter of the spout, one or more side walls having one or more inner and outer diameters and a distal annular edge, wherein the one or more inner diameters of the side wall of the spout interferingly engage one or more of the outer diameters of the side wall of the spout seal portion of the sleeve.
19. The closure device of claim 18, wherein the one or more inner diameters of the side wall of the spout comprises one or more distal end spout beads for interfering engagement of the one or more outer diameters of the side wall of the spout seal portion of the sleeve, the one or more outer diameters of the side wall of the spout seal portion of the sleeve comprises one or more spout seal beads for interfering engagement of the one or more inner diameters of the side wall of the spout, wherein the one or more distal end spout beads are distal to the one or more spout seal beads, wherein the one or more distal end spout beads interferingly engage the one or more spout seal beads when the spout is in its most proximal, open configuration.
20. (canceled)
21. (canceled)
22. (canceled)
23. (canceled)
24. (canceled)
25. (canceled)
26. The closure device of claim 1, wherein the dust cover comprises one or more helical thread forms which interferingly engage with one or more helical thread forms of the sleeve.
27. The closure device of claim 26, wherein a twisting motion of the dust cover activates the closure device, wherein the activation of the closure device results from axial movement of the sleeve in a downward or distal direction, wherein the center post applies a pressing force on the end cap, wherein a seal between the end cap and inner wall of the product chamber is broken, wherein one or more ingredients housed in the closure device are released into a receiving vessel.
28. The closure device of claim 27, wherein the dust cover is held in position by a series of lug and groove combinations configured to move/work in combination with the sleeve such that the dust cover is not readily removed from the base until appropriate lug and groove combinations are aligned.
29. The closure of claim 28, wherein the alignment and radial movement required to make the dust cover align for removal drives the sleeve and end cap from the closed position to the open position.
30. (canceled)
31. A closure device comprising:
- a. a base comprising a product chamber for storing one or more ingredients until point-of-use dispensing comprising one or more side walls having an inner and outer diameter wherein the outer diameter further comprises one or more base radial beads, a proximal end and distal end, and a closure skirt for engaging the opening or neck of a receiving vessel comprising a proximal top, one or more peripheral side walls having an inner and outer diameter greater than the one or more side walls of the product chamber, a distal end and a plug seal depending from the proximal top of the closure skirt comprising a thicker proximal end and thinner distal end, and non-parallel inner and outer angled surfaces wherein the apex of the outer surface engages the inner diameter of the opening or neck of the receiving vessel;
- b. a sleeve capable of moving axially in proximal and distal directions comprising a center post, a base engaging seal portion and a spout engaging seal portion, wherein the base engaging seal portion comprises one or more distal end sleeve beads which provides radial interference on the outer diameter of the base, wherein the spout engaging seal portion comprises one or more spout seal beads which provides radial interference on the inner diameter of the spout, wherein the center post is in axial alignment within the product chamber, wherein the center post is attached to and one or more center post collar support ribs;
- c. a spout capable of moving axially in proximal and distal directions comprising a proximal top with an outlet capable of receiving the stem of the center post and allowing product to pass through the closure device from a receiving vessel, one or more side walls having inner and outer diameters wherein the inner diameter further comprises one or more distal end spout beads for interfering engagement of one or more spout seal beads of the spout engaging seal portion of the sleeve when the spout is in its most proximal, open configuration, a sealing member for engaging the stem of the center post to create a seal when the spout is in its most distal, closed configuration;
- d. an end cap in mating engagement with the distal end of the center post, wherein the end cap closes the distal end of the product chamber in the inactivated state; and
- e. a dust cover that covers the spout, sleeve and part of the base in the inactivated configuration, wherein the spout comprises one or more helical thread forms which interfering engage with one or more helical thread forms of the sleeve, wherein a twisting motion of the dust cover activates the closure device, wherein the activation of the closure device results from axial movement of the sleeve in a downward or distal direction, wherein the center post applies a pressing force on the end cap, wherein a seal between the end cap and inner wall of the product chamber is broken, wherein one or more ingredients housed in the closure device are released into a receiving vessel.
32. The closure device of claim 31, wherein the dust cover is held in position by a series of lug and groove combinations configured to move/work in combination with the sleeve such that the dust cover is not readily removed from the base until appropriate lug and groove combinations are aligned.
33. (canceled)
34. A method of supplying or dispensing a dose or one or more ingredients, formulations or products to a user comprising:
- i) attaching a closure device of any of claims 1-33 to a receiving vessel;
- ii) dispensing the one or more ingredients, formulations or products therefrom into the attached receiving vessel by twisting and removing the dust cover; and
- iii) opening the spout on the closure device for consuming the contents of the receiving vessel through the spout.
Type: Application
Filed: Jan 23, 2013
Publication Date: Feb 5, 2015
Inventors: Derek D. Hopkins (Deerfield, NH), Robert D. Rohr (LaOtto, IN), Richard A. Laveault (Cypress, TX), Joachim S. Ruckdeschel (East Haven, CT)
Application Number: 14/374,155
International Classification: B65D 51/28 (20060101); A47G 19/22 (20060101); B65D 81/32 (20060101);
