JP2013542139A - Cap locking means - Google Patents

Abstract

  A cap locking means that is durable against impact force and can be easily and quickly removed while being crowned so that the container does not leak. The locking means includes (i) a panel (25) connected to at least a part of the outer periphery of the lid (3) of the cap (1), and (ii) a part of the panel (25) to the lid (3) At least one protrusion (26) extending inwardly of the cap (1), which fits into a groove (27) provided in a part of the cap body (2). And (iii) an elastically deformable material (28) for connecting the panel (25) to the lid (3).

Description

  The present invention relates to a means for locking a cap that is designed to be particularly durable against impact forces, allowing for a leak-free crown while being easily and quickly removed. One preferred field of use is in large or domestic container caps that contain detergents or other cleaning preparations, clothing conditioners, and the like. However, such caps may be equally suitable in other fields of use such as liquid detergents for manual and automatic dishwashers, hair care products, and containers for oral care applications such as mouthwashes.

  It would be desirable to provide a cap locking means that provides an effective tight lock in the event of an accidental overturning, while also allowing quick and easy opening and closing of the cap.

  There are many solutions for container caps suitable for use in containers containing liquid based materials such as shower gels, hair shampoos, sun creams, sun lotions, body oils. The purpose of these caps, on the one hand, is to form a leak-proof seal so that the material contained therein does not leak and external air does not always enter the container. On the other hand, such caps must be easy to open and close.

  This type of cap usually consists of an essentially tubular cap body, for example with an internal thread on its inner wall for screwing into a (male) screw of the corresponding form at the upper end of the neck of the container. Have. The seal mechanism provides a leak-free connection between the cap and the container.

  One example of such a cap is US Pat. No. 6,409,034B. U.S. Pat. No. 6,409,034B relates to a hinged cap body designed to be attached to a container opening with a leak-proof seal, where the hinged lid caps to close an outlet formed in the cap body. A lock mechanism is formed on the cap body and the hinged lid connected to the body. The seal is realized by a protrusion extending from the hinged lid that is at least partially caught in the outlet when the lid is closed. An elastically deformable material that creates a biasing force between the cap body and the hinged lid for moving the hinged lid to the open position, and a biased manual locking element provided in the cap body in the closed position Easy opening and closing is realized by the combination with the lock projection hooked backward. This locking mechanism is particularly easy to use because the locking element can be removed from the locking projection by light pressure with hand and the hinged lid is opened by an elastically deformable material.

  There are many problems with these devices. One problem is that if a user accidentally flips the container, the hinged lid can easily open and the contents can spill. Another problem is that the only sealing means that prevents the contents from flowing out of the outlet is the projection of the hinged lid, which is subject to large pressures caused by high impact forces during transport, for example. Leakage may occur. A further problem is the alignment problem between the protrusion and the outlet when the hinge is distorted and / or that such a device is only suitable for a small outlet.

  There are other caps that provide a variety of locking mechanisms, particularly medicine proof containers. This type of cap uses a mechanism such as a “push and turn” system, or other mechanisms such as those described in International Patent Application Publication No. 2006 / 102601A1 and US Pat. No. 7,404,495B2. In the mechanism, it is necessary to apply a force combining a radial force and an upward force to a part of the lock mechanism in order to open the cap. These mechanisms can be useful in preventing children from opening the cap, but make it difficult to operate with one hand, which can be important for certain users, such as the elderly.

  There are further caps that provide a moisture-proof closure mechanism as described in EP 2218654 A1. European Patent Publication No. 2218654 A1 relates to a cap having a base having an outer periphery configured to extend over at least a portion of the container, a skirt depending downward from the base, and a lip seal member depending downward from the base. is there. The container has an opening delimited by a lip extending upward from the container. The lip seal member is configured to abut the inside of the lip when the cap is in the closed position.

  These devices are suitable for preventing moisture from entering or escaping from the container, but provide a sufficiently strong locking force to prevent the lid from opening when an impact is applied. is not. Furthermore, since this device relies on only one sealing surface, it leaks, for example, when a small, constant holding pressure is applied to the container, when the container is handled by the user, or is accidentally turned over. It is easy to produce.

US Pat. No. 6,409,034B International Patent Application Publication No. 2006 / 102601A1 U.S. Pat. No. 7,404,495B2 European Patent Publication No. 2218654A1

  Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a compact solution that solves the above problems while being simple, cost-effective and highly efficient to use.

  One aspect of the present invention provides a cap that tightly locks and seals the container to prevent unwanted leakage throughout all stages of the supply chain, while allowing the cap to be opened and closed quickly and easily. For the purpose.

  Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a cap that is resistant to bending, particularly the bending that occurs when the cap is tightened to the neck of the container, to ensure a more effective leak-proof seal.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a means for locking a cap that can be quickly and easily opened with one hand, while enabling a tight lock against impact.

  Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be better understood with reference to the accompanying drawings and the following specification.

  In one aspect, the present invention relates to a locking means for a cap that can be connected to a container, the locking means comprising a panel connected to at least a part of the outer periphery of the cap lid. At least one protrusion extends from a part of the panel toward the inside of the lid, and fits into a groove provided in a part of the cap body of the cap. And at least part of the protrusion (26) extends at an angle c, and at least part of the groove (27) is pressed against the cap body (2) by the lid (3). The angle c of the projection (26) is 1 to 5 when measured from a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (YY) so that the projection (26) can be fitted with the projection (26). The angle b of the groove (27) is 0 to 2 °.

  In another aspect, the invention relates to a cap that can be coupled to a container with locking means.

The front view of the cap based on one Embodiment of this invention. 1 is a side view of a cap according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the cap according to one embodiment of the present invention, taken along line AA in FIG. 1A. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 with the lid in an open position. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of portion X of FIG. 2 of a cap according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a plan view of a cap according to an embodiment of the present invention in an open position. FIG. The side sectional view of the cap based on one embodiment of the present invention in the state where the lid was half closed. FIG. 3 is a plan view of a cap according to an embodiment of the present invention in a closed position. The sectional side view of the cap based on one Embodiment of this invention which shows the opening operation | movement of a cap. The sectional side view of the cap based on one Embodiment of this invention which shows the opening operation | movement of a cap. The sectional side view of the cap based on one Embodiment of this invention which shows the opening operation | movement of a cap. FIG. 3 is a graph showing a drop test of a cap according to an embodiment of the present invention connected to a 3 liter container. These results show that the cap of the present invention is kept closed and sealed at an average drop height of 139 cm.

  The terms “a” and “an” when describing a particular element, as used herein, means “at least one” of that particular element.

  As used herein, the term “lock” or “locking” means that the cap is firmly secured in its closed position. As used herein, the term “securely secured” means that the cap withstands a force of at least 30N, preferably at least 50N, more preferably at least 70N.

  As used herein, the term “large container” refers to at least 1.5 liters, preferably at least 2 liters of liquid, more preferably 2 liters to 5 liters, most preferably 2 liters to 3 liters of liquid. Means the container to enter.

  As used herein, the term “radial pressure” or “radial pressure” means a pressure in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (YY).

  The present invention relates to a locking means particularly suitable for the cap (1), which is preferably suitable for placing liquid in a large container. The container may be of any shape and size and may be formed of any material, such as elastic, flexible, rigid, or other material. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to plastic and glass.

  The following sections describe in detail the basic features and preferred embodiments of the present invention.

Cap The cap (1) may include a cap body (2) that can be connected to a container, and a lid (3) that fits into the cap body (2). The cap (1) is disposed in a disposable sealing means (4) for sealing the take-out port (5) provided in the cap body (2), the cap body (2) and the lid (3), Locking means for locking the lid (3) to the cap body (2) may be further provided.

  At least a portion of the cap (1) can be formed from a plastic material by injection molding or other suitable molding technique. For example, the cap (1) can be molded from polypropylene. Preferably the cap (1) has a tensile modulus of at least 1500 MPa, preferably 1600-1700 MPa. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the cap (1) can be integrally formed. Or you may assemble, after shape | molding at least one part of the said cap (1) as a different body.

Cap body The cap (1) may comprise a cap body (2) having a longitudinal axis (YY) extending parallel to its centerline. The cap body (2) may have an outlet (5) inside, preferably the cap body (2) has a spout (6) in which the outlet (5) is arranged. Have.

  2 and 3, the cap body (2) may have an outer wall (7) that defines the shape of the cap body (2). Preferably, the average thickness of the outer wall (7) is usually 2.0 mm to 2.5 mm. Said outer wall (7) may be defined by an outer surface (8) and an inner surface (9). The cap body (2) may further include a first contact surface (10) disposed on the outer surface (8), and a portion substantially adjacent to the apex of the outer surface (8) of the outer wall (7). Can extend downward from Said first contact surface (10) is preferably such that at least a part of the locking means, preferably a part of its panel, is urged to slide when it comes into contact with said first contact surface (10). Is non-linear. The first contact surface is preferably curved so that the maximum gradient is located adjacent to the apex of the outer wall (7). When the cap includes a lid to be hinged, the first contact surface is preferably located on the opposite side of the hinge (11).

  In one embodiment, the spout (6) extends from a first portion defining an upper portion (12) vertically displaced from the outer wall (7) to a second portion defining a base (13). Can extend. The base (13) has the outlet () inside. Preferably, the base (13) may be capable of entering at least part of the container to which the cap (1) is connected. The spout (6) can be configured to have a substantially flat top (12). Further, the upper portion (12) may be inclined at a predetermined angle, and may exhibit a predetermined curvature on the uppermost surface. It may be particularly desirable for the distance between the top of the upper part (12) of the spout (6) and the apex of the outer wall (7) to be at least 6 mm, preferably at least 7 mm, more preferably 7-10 mm. is there. The distance between the top of the upper part of the spout (12) and the apex of the outer wall (7), that is, the total height of the spout (6) can also depend on the height of the lid (3). Understood. This embodiment is particularly advantageous because it allows the liquid content to be poured in a predetermined direction without dripping the liquid content on the outer wall (7) and / or the container. By introducing a spout (6) having a sufficient height so that the distance between the top of the top (12) and the apex of the outer wall (7) meets the above range, the cap (1) The overall height is greatly affected. In fact, it is desirable to keep the overall height of the cap (1) as low as possible, for example due to shelf space constraints when it is necessary to limit the height of the cap (1) to use as large a container as possible. There is a case. In such a particular situation, the spout (6) can be placed on the cap lid (3) by further minimizing any upward deflection of the cap body (2) that may occur when tightening the cap (1) on the container. It can be particularly important to prevent it from being pressed against a part of.

  The cap body (2) has a female thread (14) extending from the inner surface (9) for mating with the neck of the container in which a corresponding thread is formed in order to tighten the cap body (2) to the container. May further be provided.

  Referring to FIG. 4, the cap body (2) may have a bridge-like portion (15) formed by a part of the outer wall (7), and preferably a part of the outer wall (7) At the top. In this embodiment, the bridge-like portion (15) is a flat cutout that can contact the top surface of the container neck when the cap body (2) is fully clamped to the container neck. (16). Preferably, the flat cutout (16) is oriented such that the flat surface (17) contacts the top surface of the container when the cap body (2) is fully tightened. In this embodiment, the distance “a” between the apex of the bridge-like portion (15) and the flat surface (17) is 2 mm to 3 mm, preferably 2.2 mm to 2.5 mm. This particular notch configuration and thickness range reduces the concentration of stresses that occur when the cap body (2) is fastened to the neck of the container and provides a bridge-like area for high torque deflection. It has been found to be particularly effective in contributing to strengthening.

  In a preferred embodiment, the cap body (2) has a plug seal (18) extending adjacent to the flat cutout (16) and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (YY) of the cap body (2). Can have. The plug seal (18) can be in contact with at least a part of the inner surface of the neck of the container when the cap body (2) is connected to the container.

  In a preferred embodiment, the flat cutout (16) and the plug seal (18) are arranged between the cap body (2) and the container neck when the cap body (2) is securely fastened to the container neck. Sealing means can be provided by blocking all the passages that can be formed in the connecting portions of the two and preventing any leakage of the contents from the passages.

  In a further embodiment, said bridge portion (15) is generally curvilinear, preferably said bridge portion (15) has a curvature having a radius of 4.5 mm to 5.5 mm, preferably 5.0 mm. It can be presented. This arrangement has been found to reduce the concentration of stress acting on the bridge-like portion when the cap body (2) is tightly fastened to the neck of the container.

  Such reinforcement, strength against deflection, and shape can be particularly important when the cap body (2) is tightened or excessively tightened. Strong tightening of the cap body (2) against the container neck is necessary to maximize the sealing performance of the cap body (2) and prevent the cap body (2) from unintentionally loosening from the container neck. It may be said. It may be desirable to tighten the cap body (2) to an extent that prevents it from being easily loosened by the user, especially if the cap is provided with another lid to be opened by the user. In such a situation, it is desirable to tighten the cap body (2) with a torque of at most 600 Ncm, preferably 240 Ncm to 600 Ncm. A problem that is likely to occur at such a high torque value is bending in a region where the maximum force acts. Such deflection can cause other elements, such as the spout (6), to bend upward, which pushes the lid, thereby opening the cap and making it easier to leak. Accordingly, the cap body (2) of the present invention has a torque of at most 400 Ncm, preferably at most 500 Ncm, more preferably at most 600 Ncm, most preferably at 240 Ncm to 600 Ncm without causing deformation greater than 0.3 mm. It is particularly desirable to be able to connect to the neck of the container. The above embodiments have been found to be particularly effective in withstanding torques of up to 400 Ncm, preferably 100 Ncm to 400 Ncm, more preferably 100 Ncm to 500 Ncm, and most preferably 240 Ncm to 600 Ncm, with a deflection of 0. It is less than 3 mm.

  In another embodiment (not shown in the figure), at least a portion of the bridge portion (15) may be coated with a material that can be elastically deformed when a force is applied. Preferably, the material is selected from polyolefins. An O-ring may be incorporated. This coating may be a different material from the material of the cap body (2), preferably the coating is a material that is more elastically deformed than the material of the cap body (2). In this embodiment, the coated portion of the bridge-like portion (15) provides a strong structure while the coating material is deformed as intended to provide a leak proof seal even at low torque.

  In a preferred embodiment, the cap body (2) may further comprise a flange (19) extending substantially parallel to and adjacent to the spout (6). The flange (19) can be arranged between and substantially parallel to a part of the inner surface (9) of the outer wall (7) and the surface of the spout (6). In this embodiment, a gap is formed between the flange and the portion of the inner surface (9) into which the raised portion (20) extending from the surface of the lid (3) is inserted when the lid (3) is closed. Is done.

  Referring to FIG. 5, the spout can be of any shape so that the liquid contents in the container can be easily poured. The spout (6) preferably has a horseshoe-shaped outer periphery that assists pouring in a predetermined direction at the top. When the cap (1) includes a lid (3) hinged to the cap body (2), the predetermined direction is away from the hinge (11) and opposite to the hinge (11). Direction. In an even more preferred embodiment, the spout (6) has a product breakage lip (21) located adjacent to the top of the top (12) of the spout (6). The product flow interruption lip (21) has an effect of reducing dripping on the cap body (2), which may hinder smooth opening and closing of the cap (1).

Lid Cap (1) may comprise a lid (3). The lid may have a first lid surface (22) that defines the outer shape and outer periphery of the lid (3).

  In a preferred embodiment, the lid (3) is inserted between the flange (19) and a part of the inner surface (9) of the outer wall (7) of the cap body (2) when the lid (3) is closed. It may have a ridge (20) that extends substantially parallel to the first lid surface (22) inside the first lid surface (22). This configuration is particularly advantageous for providing additional sealing means when the lid (3) is locked to the cap body (2).

  In a preferred embodiment, the lid (3) can be hinged to the cap body (2) by one or more hinges (11). This arrangement helps to open the cap (1) with one hand because the lid (3) is simply pivoted to the open position by the pressure applied by the user once unlocked. The hinge may also include a spring element that forcibly opens the lid (3) when unlocked. Suitable spring elements include, but are not limited to, cantilever springs, coil springs, spiral springs, springs including torsion springs, and / or elastically deformable materials such as thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). Any elastic object that stores mechanical energy can be mentioned. Preferably, the one or more hinges (11) are one member of the lid (3) and the cap body (2), and are formed of the same material. However, it is understood that other types of hinges, such as embedded hinges, butterfly hinges, butt hinges, etc. that are welded or similarly joined to the lid (3) and the cap body (2) are equally suitable. .

  With reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, the lid (3) may have an upper surface (23) that defines the outermost surface of the top of the lid (3). The upper surface (23) may comprise an inner upper surface facing the inside of the container when the lid (3) is closed against the cap body (2). In a preferred embodiment, the upper surface (23) has interconnected grooves (24). As used herein, “interconnected” means that the groove (24) forms a closed shape and therefore the groove (24) has neither a starting point nor an ending point. Preferably, the shape is circular. However, it is understood that other shapes such as oval, square, rectangle, and triangle are equally suitable. In this embodiment, such a groove (24) makes it possible to attach a metering container (doser) to the top of the lid (3).

  The lid (3) can be formed of the same material as the cap body. Preferably, the material is selected from polyolefins, more specifically polypropylene.

Disposable sealing means The cap (1) may further comprise a disposable sealing means (4) for sealing the outlet (5) of the cap body (2).

  In a preferred embodiment, the disposable sealing means (4) is welded to at least a part of the base (13) of the spout (6), and particularly when a high pressure is generated due to a large impact force, a pressure-resistant seal against this. Means can be formed. The material of the disposable sealing means (4) is preferably selected from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyurethane, aluminum foil, polypropylene, and mixtures thereof. Suitable films of this kind generally consist of PET (12 μm) / adhesive (5 μm) / ink (optional) / soft aluminum foil (38 μm) / coextruded weld layer (116 μm).

  In another embodiment, the disposable sealing means (4) may have a pull tab (30) to facilitate removal of the disposable sealing means (4). The pull tab (30) is particularly effective for enhancing the peelability when the cap body (2) has a spout (6). The pull tab (30) is preferably configured to have a size that can be easily reached by the user without deteriorating the opening and closing of the cap (1). The pull tab (30) is folded into a gap formed between the flange (19) of the cap body (2) and a part of the inner surface (9) of the outer wall (7) of the cap body (2). More preferably, the insertion is facilitated by the ridge (20) of the lid (3) of the cap (1) when the cap (1) is closed. When folded in, the user can easily access and pick a portion of the pull tab in order to initiate the peeling operation.

  In a preferred embodiment, the pull tab (30) can be arranged on the side of the cap body (2), preferably adjacent to the hinge connection with the lid (3). According to this configuration, particularly when the upper part (12) of the spout (6) is inclined at a predetermined angle, easy peeling is possible.

  In another embodiment, the disposable sealing means (4) may have a peel force of 7N-15N, preferably 7N-11N, more preferably 9N-11N. As used herein, the peel force refers to the force required to peel the disposable seal means (4). If this force is below the above range, the user will get the impression that it is not the intended quality, whereas a force above the above range will increase the user's fatigue, tearing and incompleteness. It is not desirable because peeling easily occurs.

  In another embodiment, the disposable sealing means (4) may have a burst pressure of at least 250 kPa (2.5 bar), preferably from 250 kPa (2.5 bar) to 400 kPa (4 bar). As used herein, burst pressure refers to the pressure required to cause a break (or burst) of the disposable sealing means (4). It has been found that disposable sealing means (4) having a burst pressure within the above range provides a leak-proof seal even at high impact forces.

Table A shows the peel force and burst pressure of many materials.

Locking means The locking means according to the invention is suitable for a cap (1) that can be connected to a container. The locking means is disposed on the cap body (2) and the lid (3), and locks the lid (3) with respect to the cap body (2).

  Referring to FIG. 6, the locking means is connected to the lid (3) of the cap (1) on the outer periphery of the lid (3) of the cap (1), preferably on a part of the first lid surface (22). A connected panel (25), at least one protrusion (26) extending from a part of the panel (25) toward the inside of the lid (3), the cap body (2) of the cap (1) At least one protrusion (26) that fits into a groove (27) provided in a part of the cover, and an elastically deformable material (28) that connects the panel (25) to the lid (3). ing. Preferably, the elastically deformable material (28) is selected from the group consisting of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), silicone, and mixtures thereof.

  The panel (25) may have a bottom, two sides and a top when viewed from the front of the cap (1) in the closed position. While the bottom has a curve rather than a straight line, the top and the two side surfaces are preferably straight so that the outer periphery of the panel (25) forms an arch shape. However, it is understood that other shapes such as squares, circles, rectangles, etc. are equally suitable.

  In a preferred embodiment, at least part of the panel (25) may abut at least part of the first contact surface (10) of the cap body (2) when pressure is applied to the panel (25). . The first contact surface (10) may be curved to aid sliding between at least a portion of the panel (25) and the first contact surface (10). Preferably, at least part of the panel (25) has at least one protrusion (29) extending along at least part of the height of the panel (25). Preferably, said protrusion (29) extends over at least 50% of said height. In the present specification, the height of the panel (25) is defined as the vertical distance along the plane approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis (YY) from the bottom of the panel (25) to the top of the panel (25). Preferably, the height extends substantially parallel to the two side edges of the panel (25). The protrusion (29) may further have a gradient for improving the slidability on the first contact surface (10), which makes it easy to open the lid (3). Such protrusions (29) can enhance the slidability of the panel (25) on the first contact surface (10) and simultaneously reinforce the panel (25).

  At least a part of the protrusion (26) extends at an angle c, which is 1 to 2 °. Further, at least a part of the groove (27) is inclined at an angle b so that the fitting with the protrusion (26) is realized when the lid (3) is pressed against the cap body (2). The angle b is 0 to 2 °. With this configuration, the two members can be more strongly locked with each other, and a great resistance to opening is provided unless the locking means is released by applying pressure to the panel (25) with one or more fingers. .

  In one embodiment, the protrusion (26) may extend from 0.80 mm to 0.85 mm toward the inside of the lid (3), and the depth of the groove (27) is from 0.86 mm to 0.9 mm. As used herein, “inner side of the lid” refers to a longitudinal axis so that the protrusion (26) approaches the raised portion (20) formed on the lid (3) from the inner surface of the first lid surface (22). It means that it extends by a predetermined length in a direction substantially perpendicular to (YY). As used herein, the term “deep or depth” refers to a dimension measured from a plane generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (YY) from the open end to the closed end of the groove (27).

  In a preferred embodiment, the length of the protrusion (26) may be shorter than the length of the groove (27). As used herein, the term “length” refers to one end of the protrusion (26) or the groove (27) when measured along a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (YY). Means the distance to. The effect of this configuration is that it becomes easy to dispose the projection (26) in the groove (27) when closing the lid (3).

  In a preferred embodiment, when pressure is applied to the panel (25), the panel (25) can rotate about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (YY), thereby causing the groove (27) to rotate. The protrusion (26) comes off from the first and the panel (25) comes into contact with the first contact surface (10) of the cap body (2) almost at the same time. In this embodiment, when radial pressure is applied by the user, the panel (25) rotates and the protrusion (26) disengages from the groove (27), and at the same time, part of the panel (25) is in the first contact. Abutting part of the face (10) causes a sliding movement between the faces. At this point, the protrusion (26) is in a different axial position relative to the groove (27) so that the radial pressure is released without the protrusion (26) re-fitting with the groove (27). is there. The lid (3) is then lifted completely by applying a weaker upward pressure than this. One effect of this configuration is that the force required for the user to unlock the cap (1) is reduced by a combination of lever principle and sliding movement. Another effect is that the unlocking of the cap (1) can be realized by applying pressure only in the radial direction of the cap (1). Thereafter, the user can easily lift the lid (3) by applying upward pressure to the lid (3). The upward force required for this is much lower than the initial radial pressure required to unlock the lid (3) from the cap body (2), so that the entire process of opening the cap (1) is a It becomes easy. The locking means in this specification makes it possible to configure the protrusion (26) and the groove (27) that can generate a larger fitting force without reducing the ease of opening. .

  In one embodiment, the locking means can withstand a penetration force of 30N to 70N, preferably 50N to 70N, when the locking means is locked. The penetration force used above is a force required to open the cap (1) without releasing the locking means, and is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (YY) with respect to the inner upper surface of the lid (3). It means the force applied in the direction. This force is applied from the inside to the outside. The locking means that can withstand the above-mentioned force makes it possible to keep the cap (1) closed, in particular against an increase in pressure, especially due to impact forces when accidentally turned over in daily use. I know that.

  In a further embodiment, the locking means can be released by applying a force of 15N to 35N to a part of the panel (25). The release of the locking means used above means that a part of the panel (25) comes into contact with the first contact surface (10) of the cap body (2) and slides first, It means that the protrusion (26) comes off from the groove (27). It has been found that such a force is suitable for opening the cap (1) with one hand without greatly affecting the force that can be withstood when the locking means is locked. Lubricating additives can be added to the portion of the cap body (2), lid (3) and locking means where maximum contact occurs. Preferably, the lubricating additive is selected from the group consisting of erucamide, siloxane, and mixtures thereof.

  In one embodiment, at least a part of the panel (25) can be further connected to the lid (3) by a second material having a lower elastic deformation rate than the elastically deformable material (28), preferably The second material is the same as the material of the lid (3). In this embodiment, the panel (25) is two separate, one on each side of the panel (25) parallel and symmetrical to each other so as to form two parallel pivot points allowing rotation. Can be connected to the lid (3) by a second material. The remaining part of the panel can be connected to the lid (3) by an elastically deformable material (28). The two separate positions are near the bottom of the panel (25) and far from the top of the panel (25) so that a longer rotating arm is formed between the two parallel pivot points and the top of the panel (25). Preferably it is a position.

  In a preferred embodiment, the elastically deformable material (28) is at least one surface of the panel (25), preferably the surface on which the user applies pressure, more preferably away from the inside of the lid (3). Cover the face that faces. The effect of this configuration is that the grip is improved, so that the user can apply the pressure necessary for unlocking without the risk of one or more fingers slipping, so it is easy to open with one hand This is the point. A further effect is that the elastically deformable material (28) applies additional tension, preferably by applying the resulting force in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (YY), so that the protrusion (26 ) Is a point that helps to fit into the groove (27).

  In a further embodiment, the elastically deformable material (28) may have an indication on at least a portion of its surface, preferably the surface on which the user applies pressure with one or more fingers. Preferably, the indicia can indicate an optimal position to be pushed to unlock with the least effort possible by the user.

Method of Use FIGS. 8A to 8C show an example of the operation of the cap (1). FIG. 8A shows the rest position of the cap (1) in the closed position before use. The user releases the lid (3) by applying pressure with one or more fingers, preferably in the radial direction, at least on the part of the panel (25) forming part of the locking means. The direction and position of this pressure is indicated by arrow A in FIG. Due to this pressure, the panel (25) partly comes into contact with at least part of the first contact surface (10) of the cap body (2) almost simultaneously with the protrusion (26) coming out of the groove (27). Thus, the plate () rotates on an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (YY). At the same time, a part of the panel (25) starts to slide on the first contact surface (10), so that the protrusion (26) is easily detached from the groove (27). FIG. 8B shows a state in which the protrusion (26) is detached from the groove (27). The user then raises the lid (3) to a fully open position for pouring the contents of the container connected to the lid (3) by applying a substantially upward pressure. Also, the user can continue to apply a radial pressure to a part of the panel (25), even at a smaller magnitude, in combination with an upward pressure to lift the lid (3), so that the groove ( 27), the transition from the protrusion (26) to the lifting of the lid can be performed smoothly. FIG. 8B shows both a smaller radial pressure A ′ and an upward pressure B. As used herein, the term “smaller size” means that the radial pressure applied when the protrusion (26) and the groove (27) are disengaged is applied in the radial direction before disengagement. Means less than the pressure. FIG. 8C shows the cap (1) in the fully open position. After the user has finished pouring the contents, the lid (3) is placed on the cap body (2) until the protrusion (26) fits into the groove (27) and the cap (1) is locked in its closed position. By pushing back, the lid (3) can be closed with one hand. This operation can be repeated for later use.

  The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Rather, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” shall mean “about 40 mm”.

Claims (12)

A locking means for the cap (1) which can be connected to the container,
(I) a panel (25) connected to at least part of the outer periphery of the lid (3) of the cap (1);
(Ii) At least one protrusion (26) extending from a part of the panel (25) toward the inside of the lid (3), provided on a part of the cap body (2) of the cap (1) At least one protrusion (26) that fits into the groove (27) formed;
(Iii) an elastically deformable material (28) connecting the panel (25) to the lid (3);
At least a portion of the protrusion (26) extends at an angle c;
At least a part of the groove (27) is inclined at an angle b so that when the lid (3) is pressed against the cap body (2), the groove (27) can be fitted with the protrusion (26). ,
When measured from a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (YY), the angle c of the protrusion (26) is 1 to 2 °, and the angle b of the groove (27) is 0 to 2 °. Locking means.   The locking means according to claim 1, wherein when pressure is applied to the panel (25), at least a part of the panel (25) abuts on the first contact surface (10) of the cap body (2). The portion of the panel (25) further comprises at least one protrusion (29) extending along at least a portion of the height of the panel (25);
3. Locking means according to claim 2, wherein the protrusion preferably has a constant slope so as to enhance slidability on the first contact surface (10).   When pressure is applied to the panel (25), the protrusion (26) is disengaged from the groove (27) by rotating the panel (25) about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (YY). The locking means according to claim 2 or 3, wherein said at least part of said panel (25) abuts on said first contact surface (10) substantially simultaneously.   The locking means according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein when the locking means is locked, the locking means can withstand a force of 30N to 70N, preferably 50N to 70N.   The locking means according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the locking means is released by applying a force of 15N to 35N to a part of the panel (25).   Locking means according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the elastically deformable material (28) is selected from the group consisting essentially of thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), silicones and mixtures thereof. . At least a portion of the panel (25) is further coupled to the lid (3) by a second material having a lower elastic deformation rate than the elastically deformable material (28);
7. Locking means according to claim 6, wherein the second material is preferably the same as the material of the lid (3).   Locking means according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the length of the protrusion (26) is shorter than the groove (27).   The protrusion (26) extends by 0.80 mm to 0.85 mm toward the inside of the lid (3), and the depth of the groove (27) is 0.86 mm to 0.9 mm. The locking means according to claim 9. A method for opening and closing the cap (1) comprising the locking means according to any one of claims 1 to 10 with one hand,
Lifting the lid (3) simultaneously with applying pressure to the panel (25) with one or more fingers;
Releasing the pressure;
Optionally closing the lid (3) by pushing the lid (3) back onto the cap body (2).   A cap (1), comprising the locking means according to claim 1 and capable of being connected to a container.

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