EP3107818A1 - Pouring spout and package including the same - Google Patents
Pouring spout and package including the sameInfo
- Publication number
- EP3107818A1 EP3107818A1 EP14714543.7A EP14714543A EP3107818A1 EP 3107818 A1 EP3107818 A1 EP 3107818A1 EP 14714543 A EP14714543 A EP 14714543A EP 3107818 A1 EP3107818 A1 EP 3107818A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- spout
- longitudinally extending
- spout fitment
- pouring
- liquid
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 92
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 abstract description 6
- 239000003205 fragrance Substances 0.000 description 6
- 230000003252 repetitive effect Effects 0.000 description 5
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000003599 detergent Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 3
- -1 stain removers Substances 0.000 description 3
- 241000510097 Megalonaias nervosa Species 0.000 description 2
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004793 Polystyrene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000919 ceramic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000002979 fabric softener Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920001903 high density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004700 high-density polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000001746 injection moulding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920001684 low density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004702 low-density polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920002223 polystyrene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000000344 soap Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000007480 spreading Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000003892 spreading Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000007704 transition Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000000071 blow moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004851 dishwashing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003814 drug Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000499 gel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010348 incorporation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003754 machining Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002324 mouth wash Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229940051866 mouthwash Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000011144 upstream manufacturing Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D25/00—Details of other kinds or types of rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D25/38—Devices for discharging contents
- B65D25/40—Nozzles or spouts
- B65D25/42—Integral or attached nozzles or spouts
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D47/00—Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
- B65D47/04—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps
- B65D47/06—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D1/00—Containers having bodies formed in one piece, e.g. by casting metallic material, by moulding plastics, by blowing vitreous material, by throwing ceramic material, by moulding pulped fibrous material, by deep-drawing operations performed on sheet material
- B65D1/02—Bottles or similar containers with necks or like restricted apertures, designed for pouring contents
- B65D1/0223—Bottles or similar containers with necks or like restricted apertures, designed for pouring contents characterised by shape
- B65D1/023—Neck construction
- B65D1/0246—Closure retaining means, e.g. beads, screw-threads
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D25/00—Details of other kinds or types of rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D25/28—Handles
- B65D25/2882—Integral handles
- B65D25/2885—Integral handles provided on the side wall
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D41/00—Caps, e.g. crown caps or crown seals, i.e. members having parts arranged for engagement with the external periphery of a neck or wall defining a pouring opening or discharge aperture; Protective cap-like covers for closure members, e.g. decorative covers of metal foil or paper
- B65D41/02—Caps or cap-like covers without lines of weakness, tearing strips, tags, or like opening or removal devices
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D47/00—Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
- B65D47/04—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps
- B65D47/06—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages
- B65D47/12—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages having removable closures
- B65D47/122—Threaded caps
- B65D47/123—Threaded caps with internal parts
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D47/00—Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
- B65D47/40—Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices with drip catchers or drip-preventing means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2203/00—Decoration means, markings, information elements, contents indicators
- B65D2203/12—Audible, olfactory or visual signalling means
Definitions
- Containers for home care liquids such as laundry detergents and fabric softeners, having closure assemblies that include integrated pouring spouts are known.
- the integrated pouring spouts channel the flow of the home care liquid during into a concentrated stream of the home care liquid during dispensing.
- the exposed surface area of the home care liquid in the pouring spout is minimized during a product dispensing event.
- Existing container are, thus, not optimal for dispensing scented household liquids where it may be desirable to release a perceptible scent (or fragrance) during the dispensing.
- the present invention is directed to a packaged product comprising a container and a scented household liquid.
- the container includes an integrated pouring spout that is configured to increase the exposed surface area of a scented household liquid in the pouring spout during a product dispensing event, thereby increasing the amount of scent (or fragrance) released from the scented household liquid during the product dispensing event.
- the pouring spout may have a flared section in which the transverse width of the flow channel increases moving toward the spout outlet, thereby allowing the flow of the scented household liquid to transversely spread out to increase the exposed surface area.
- the pouring spout is designed such that at least one of the floor surface and side surfaces that define the flow channel have a topographical feature that may increase the exposed surface area of a liquid in the pouring spout and/or alter the fluid dynamics of the liquid in the pouring spout during dispensing.
- the invention can be a packaged product comprising: a container body forming a cavity containing a scented household liquid, the container body comprising a neck portion; a spout fitment coupled to the neck portion of the container body, the spout fitment comprising a pouring spout; the pouring spout comprising a flow channel for dispensing the scented household liquid from the cavity, the flow channel extending along a longitudinal axis from a spout inlet to a spout outlet at a distal end of the pouring spout; the flow channel comprising a flared section having a transverse width that increases with longitudinal distance from the spout inlet; and a cap detachably coupled to the container body to cover the pouring spout and seal the cavity.
- the invention can be a spout fitment for dispensing a liquid, the spout fitment comprising: a pouring spout, the pouring spout comprising a floor surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface that collectively define a flow channel for dispensing the liquid, the flow channel extending along a longitudinal axis from a spout inlet to a spout outlet; and at least one of the floor surface, the first side surface, and the second side surface comprising a topographical feature selected from at least one of a plurality of depressions and a plurality of protuberances.
- the invention can be a packaged product comprising: a container body forming a cavity containing the liquid, the container body comprising a neck portion; a spout fitment coupled to the neck portion of the container body, the spout fitment comprising: a pouring spout, the pouring spout comprising a floor surface, a first side surface extending upward from the floor surface, and a second side surface extending upward from the floor surface; the floor surface, the first side surface, and the second side surface collectively defining a flow channel for dispensing the scented household liquid, the flow channel extending along a longitudinal axis from a spout inlet to a spout outlet; and at least one of the floor surface, the first side surface, and the second side surface comprising a topographical feature selected from at least one of a plurality of depressions and a plurality of protuberances.
- Figure 1 is a cross-sectional schematic of a packaged product in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- Figure 2 is a perspective view of a top portion of the packaged product of FIG. 1, wherein the cap of the container has been removed;
- Figure 2A is a perspective view of a top portion of the packaged product of FIG. 1, wherein the cap of the container has been removed and a scented liquid is being dispensed therefrom;
- Figure 3 is a perspective view of the spout fitment of the container of the packaged product of FIG. 1;
- Figure 4 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 3;
- Figure 5 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment of FIG. 3;
- Figure 6 is a top view of a first alternate geometry of a pouring spout that can be incorporated into the spout fitment of the container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention
- Figure 7 is a top view of a second alternate geometry of a pouring spout that can be incorporated into the spout fitment of the container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with a yet further embodiment of the present invention
- Figure 8 is a top view of a third alternate geometry of a pouring spout that can be incorporated into the spout fitment of the container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with a still further embodiment of the present invention
- Figure 9 is a perspective view of a first alternate embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of transversely extending ridges;
- Figure 9 A is a perspective view of the first alternate embodiment of the spout fitment of
- FIG. 9 wherein a scented household liquid is being dispensed therefrom
- Figure 10 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 9;
- Figure 11 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment of FIG. 9;
- Figure 12 is a perspective view of a second alternate embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of longitudinally extending ridges;
- Figure 13 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 12;
- Figure 14 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment of FIG. 12;
- Figure 15 is a perspective view of a third alternate embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of longitudinally extending ridges and a plurality of transversely extending ridges;
- Figure 16 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 15;
- Figure 17 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment of FIG. 15;
- Figure 18 is a perspective view of a fourth alternate embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of transversely extending grooves;
- Figure 19 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 18;
- Figure 20 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment of FIG. 18;
- Figure 21 is a perspective view of a fourth alternate embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves;
- Figure 22 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 21;
- Figure 23 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment of FIG. 21 ;
- Figure 24 is a perspective view of a fifth alternate embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves and a plurality of transversely extending ridges;
- Figure 25 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 24;
- Figure 26 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment of FIG. 24;
- Figure 27 is a perspective view of a sixth alternate embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of the packaged product of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of longitudinally extending ridges and a plurality of transversely extending grooves;
- Figure 28 is a front view of the spout fitment of FIG. 27.
- Figure 29 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment of FIG. 27.
- the packaged product 1000 generally comprises a container 100 and a liquid, which in the exemplified embodiment is a scented household liquid 200.
- the container 100 forms a sealed enclosure for the scented household liquid 200 that is suitable for transport, storage, and handling of the scented household liquid 200.
- the container 100 is also configured to dispense the scented household liquid 200 in a controlled manner.
- the scented household liquid 200 may be a laundry care liquid, a cleaning liquid, and an oral care liquid.
- suitable laundry care liquids include, without limitation, laundry detergents, stain removers, and fabric softeners.
- cleaning liquids include, without limitation, dish soaps, dishwashing detergents, liquid soaps, body wash and shower gels.
- suitable oral care liquids include, without limitation, mouthwash, oral rinsing fluids, and oral medicaments.
- liquids other than a scented household liquid may be used with the container 100.
- the container 100 generally comprises a container body 110, a cap 120, and a spout fitment 130.
- the container body 110 comprises a main body portion 111 and a neck portion 112.
- the container body 110 in the exemplified embodiment, is integrally formed as a single component. In certain other embodiments, however, the container body 110 may be a multi- component structure.
- the container body 110 may be formed of a plastic, for example by utilizing a blow molding or injection molding technique. Suitable plastics include, without limitation, polypropylene, polystyrene, and high and low density polyethylene.
- the container body 110 may be formed of metal, glass, ceramic, treated cellulosic materials, or any other material that is impermeable to the scented household liquid 200 being stored therein.
- the main body portion 111 of the container body 110 forms a cavity 113 for containing the scented household liquid 200.
- the neck portion 112 is an annular wall structure that defines a central opening 114 that forms a passageway into the cavity 113.
- the neck portion 112 terminates in an annular top edge 115.
- the neck portion 112 provides the structure by which the spout fitment 130 and cap 120 can be coupled to the container body 110.
- the outer surface 116 of the neck portion 112 comprises threads 117 that facilitate threaded coupling between the container body 110 and the cap 120.
- the cap 120 comprises an inner surface 121 that comprises threads 122 that correspond to the threads 117 of the neck portion 112 for threaded mating therewith.
- the cap 120 may be indirectly coupled to the container body 110 via the spout fitment 130 (or another structure) that is, in turn, directly or indirectly coupled to the container body 110.
- the spout fitment 130 may comprise a skirt (not illustrated) that circumscribes the outer surface 116 of the neck portion 112 and that comprises threads on its outer surface for threaded engagement with the threads 122 of the cap 120.
- the cap 120 may be resized and provided with threads on its outer surface 123 for threaded engagement with threads formed on the inner surface 118 of the neck portion and/or on the annular wall 131 of the spout fitment 130.
- threads may be provided on the outer surface of the inner annular wall 125 of the cap 10 that engage threads formed on the inner surface 118 of the neck portion and/or on the annular wall 131 of the spout fitment 130.
- the container body 110 further comprises a handle 119.
- the handle 119 as exemplified, is defined by a through-hole 108 that extends through the container body 110.
- the handle 119 may be formed as a thinned portion of the container body that may include flanges for gripping.
- the handle 119 in the exemplified embodiment, is integrally formed with the main body portion 111.
- the handle 119 may be a separate component that is coupled to the main body portion 111.
- the handle 119 in the exemplified embodiment, is hollow and comprises a handle cavity 109 that is in fluid communication with the cavity 113 containing the scented household liquid 200.
- the handle 119 may be a solid structure.
- the cap 120 is detachably coupled to the container body 100 so as to be capable of repetitive coupling and decoupling as necessary to dispense the scented household liquid 200.
- the cap 120 comprises a cup-shaped body 124 having an open bottom end and a closed top end. When coupled to the container body 120, the cap 120 covers the pouring spout 140 and seals the cavity 113, thereby preventing spilling of the scented household liquid 200 from the container 100.
- the cap comprises an inner annular wall 125 and an outer annular wall 126.
- the outer annular wall 126 circumferentially surrounds the inner annular wall 125 in a concentric manner.
- the cap 120 further comprises a cap cavity 127, which in the exemplified embodiment is formed by the inner annular wall 125.
- the cap cavity 127 may have a predetermined volume that is selected so as to correspond to a predetermined dose of the scented household liquid 200.
- the volume of the cap cavity 17 may be selected so that it can accommodate only a single dose of the scented household liquid 200.
- measurement indicia may be provided on the inner annular wall 125 so that precise volume measurements and/or a dose can be made.
- the inner annular wall 125 extends into the neck portion 112.
- the inner annular wall 125 also allows the cap 120 to be used as an intermediate vessel for the scented household liquid 200 during a product dispensing event while at the same time protecting the threads 122 from getting coated by the scented household liquid 200, which may cause subsequent issues when recoupled to the container body 110.
- the pouring spout 140 is located within the cap cavity 127.
- the cap cavity 127 has an inner diameter Dl .
- the pouring spout 140 has a maximum width Wl (see FIG. 5).
- the maximum width Wl of the pouring spout 140 is less than or equal to the inner diameter Dl of the cap 120.
- the inner annular wall 125 may be omitted and the cap cavity 127 may be defined by the outer annular wall 126 or some other portion of the cap 120.
- the neck portion 112 of the container body 110 has an outer diameter D2.
- the maximum width Wl (FIG. 5) of the pouring spout 140 is less than or equal to the outer diameter D2 of the neck portion 112.
- the spout fitment 130 comprises an annular wall 131, an end wall 132 extending inward from a bottom of the annular wall 131, and a pouring spout 140 extending upward from the end wall 132 so that an annular gap 133 is formed between the annular wall 132 and the pouring spout 140.
- the spout fitment 130 is coupled to the neck portion 112 of the container body 110.
- the spout fitment 130 in the exemplified embodiment, is inserted into the opening 114 defined by the neck portion 112 of the container body 110 until an upper flange 134 of the annular wall abuts the top edge 115 of the neck portion 112.
- the spout fitment 130 is fixed to the container body 110, for example, by a tight-fit connection between the annular wall 131 of the spout fitment 130 and the neck portion 112 of the container body 110.
- the spout fitment 130 is fixed to the container body 110 via a mechanical interlock between the spout fitment 130 and the neck portion 112. Suitable mechanical interlocks include, without limitation, a snap-fit, a threaded engagement, a bayonet lock, and combinations thereof.
- the spout fitment 130 is fixed to the container body 110 by adhering the spout fitment 130 to the neck portion 112 and/or by utilizing a thermal or sonic weld.
- a seal is formed between the annular wall 131 of the spout fitment 130 and the neck portion 112 of the container body 110, thereby preventing the scented household liquid 200 from escaping through the interface.
- the seal may be formed, without limitation, by a compressed gasket structure (which may be integrally formed into either the spout fitment 130 and/or the neck portion 112) or by the adhesive, thermal weld, or sonic weld.
- the end wall 132 comprises a drain aperture 135 that forms a passageway between the annular gap 133 and the cavity 113 of the container body 110.
- the drain aperture 135 allows any scented household liquid 200 that may gather in the annular gap 133 during a product dispensing event to return back to the main reservoir of the scented household liquid 220 within the cavity 113 after the container 100 is returned to the upright position.
- the drain aperture 135 may be especially useful in embodiments of the spout fitment 130 in which the pouring spout 140 has a tubular portion adjacent the end wall 132. In certain other embodiments, the drain aperture 135 may be omitted.
- the spout fitment 130 in the exemplified embodiment, is integrally formed as a single component. In certain other embodiments, however, the spout fitment 130 may be a multi- component structure.
- the spout fitment 130 may be formed of a plastic, for example by utilizing an injection molding or machining technique. Suitable plastics include, without limitation, polypropylene, polystyrene, and high and low density polyethylene. In other embodiments, the spout fitment 130 may be formed of metal, glass, ceramic, treated cellulosic materials or combinations thereof.
- the spout fitment 130 is formed as a separate component that is subsequently coupled to the container body 110 in a fixed manner.
- the spout fitment 130 may be coupled to the container body 110, for example, through the use of an adhesive, a friction-fit connection, a snap-fit connection, a threaded connection, a thermal weld, a sonic weld, a mechanical interference fit, or combinations thereof.
- the spout fitment 130 may be coupled to 110 by way of integrally forming the spout fitment 130 and at least a portion of the container body 110 as a unitary single component.
- a first portion 141 of the pouring spout 140 is located within the neck portion 112 of the container body 110 while a second portion 142 of the pouring spout 140 protrudes beyond the top edge 115 of the neck portion 112 of the container body 110. More specifically, the first portion 141 of the pouring spout 140 is located within the central opening 114 of the neck portion 112 of the container body 110.
- the pouring spout 140 comprises a floor surface 144, a first side surface 145 extending upward from the floor surface 144, and a second side surface 146 extending upward from the floor surface 144.
- the floor surface 144, the first side surface 145, and the second side surface 146 collectively define a flow channel 147 for dispensing the scented household liquid 200 from the cavity 113.
- the flow channel 147 extends along a longitudinal axis A- A from a spout inlet 148 to a spout outlet 149.
- the pouring spout 140 extends in a cantilevered manner beyond the top edge 115 of the neck portion 112, thereby terminating in a free distal end 150.
- the pouring spout 140 in the exemplified embodiment, is in the form of an open trough. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the pouring spout 140 may be in the form of a closed tubular structure.
- Each of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 comprises an upper edge 151 and has a height HI (measured from the floor surface 144 to the upper edge 151) that decreases with longitudinal distance from the spout inlet 148 (see FIG. 1). The height HI also defines the height of the flow channel 147.
- the upper edge 151 of each of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 has a convexly sloped profile when viewed in side profile (see FIG. 1).
- the upper edge 151 of each of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 may have a stepped profile, a linearly sloped profile, a concave sloped profile, or combinations thereof (when viewed in side profile).
- the floor surface 144 is substantially planar and each of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 are also substantially planar. In certain other embodiments, the floor surface 144 may be longitudinally and/or transversely contoured. Similarly, each of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 may be longitudinally and/or transversely contoured in other embodiments. Each of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 extend upward from the floor surface 144 in a substantially perpendicular manner. In other embodiments, each of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 may extend upward form the floor surface 144 in an inclined manner, inclining either toward or away from the longitudinal axis A-A.
- the longitudinal axis A-A is linear.
- the floor surface 144 and the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 may be continuously contoured, such that the pouring spout resembles an axial section of a hollow tube having an oval cross-section.
- the flow channel 147 may extend in a non- linear manner such that the longitudinal axis A-A is also non- linear.
- the flow channel 147 may extend in a longitudinally curved manner such that the longitudinal axis A-A would also be longitudinally curved.
- the spout inlet 148 is in fluid communication with the flow channel 147 and the cavity 113, thereby forming a passageway between the flow channel 147 and the cavity 113 so that scented household liquid 200 in the cavity 113 can be dispensed from the container 100 via the poring spout 140 (when the cap 120 is removed).
- the spout outlet 149 is located at, and at least partially defined by, the distal end 150 of the pouring spout 140.
- the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 of the pouring spout 140 are separated from one another by a distance D (measured transverse to the longitudinal axis A-A), thereby defining the transverse width of the flow channel 147 (see FIG. 5).
- the distance D can also be conceptually considered the transverse width of the flow channel 147 and may be referred to as such.
- each of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 have a height HI, thereby defining the height of the flow channel 147.
- the flow channel 147 has a height HI and a width D which, as discussed in greater detail above and below, may vary along the longitudinal length of the flow channel 147.
- the flow channel 147 may have a substantially rectangular transverse cross- section at the spout outlet 149 in which the width D of the flow channel 147 is greater than the height HI of the flow channel 147. In certain embodiments, at the spout outlet 149, the width D of the flow channel 147 is at least three times greater than the height HI of the flow channel 147.
- the flow channel 147 comprises a flared section 152 in which the transverse distance D between the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 increases with longitudinal distance from the spout inlet 148.
- the flared section 152 widens and flattens the flow channel 147 along its length.
- the stream of the scented household liquid 200 spreads out between the first and second side surfaces 145, 146.
- the exposed surface area of the scented household liquid 200 is increased as the scented household liquid 200 flows through the flared section 152 of the flow channel 147, thereby increasing the amount of scent (i.e., fragrance) released during the product dispensing event.
- the flared section 152 comprises the spout outlet 149.
- the flared section 152 extends the entire length of the pouring spout 140 and, thus, also comprises the spout inlet 148. While the flared section 152 of the flow channel 147 extends from the spout inlet 148 to the spout outlet 149 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-5, in certain other embodiments the flared section 152 may extend only a portion of the length of the flow channel 147.
- the flared section 152 of the pouring spout 140 is at least partially located within the neck portion 112 of the container body 110. In certain other embodiments, such as where the flared section 152 forms only a portion of the flow channel 147, the flared section 152 may begin above the top edge 115 of the neck portion 112 of the container body 110.
- the pouring spout 140A may be designed such that the flow channel 147 further comprises an inlet section 153 upstream of the flared section 152.
- the inlet section 153 extends from the spout inlet 148 to a transition point 154.
- the flared section 152 extends from the transition point 154 to the spout outlet 149.
- the transverse distance D between the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 decreases with longitudinal distance from the spout inlet 148, thereby forming a waist portion 155 (i.e., a constriction).
- the inlet section 153 of the flow channel 147 has a transverse width D that decreases with distance from the spout inlet 148.
- the inlet section 153 may have a substantially constant width D along its length.
- the stream of the scented household liquid 200 spreads out between the first and second side surfaces 145, 146, thereby increasing the surface area of the scented household liquid 200 that is exposed during the product dispensing event.
- the inclusion of a waist portion/constriction 155 may result in additional amounts of the surface area of the scented household liquid 200 being exposed in the flared section 152 by ensuring that some of the scented household liquid 200 flows along the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 (discussed in greater detail below).
- the transverse distance D between the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 for the flared section 152 continually increases along the entirety of the flared section 152 in a linear manner.
- each of the portions of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 that define the flared section 152 are linear and diverge from the longitudinal axis A-A with distance from the spout inlet 148.
- the flared section 152 may be formed by making one or both of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 to have a stepped profile (when viewed from above as shown in FIGS. 3-5). In still other embodiments, such as is shown in FIG.
- a pouring spot 140B may be designed so that the portions of each of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 that define the flared section 152 are convexly contoured in the longitudinal direction and diverge from the longitudinal axis A-A with distance from the spout inlet 148.
- a pouring spot 140C may be designed so that the portions of each of the first and second side surfaces 145, 146 that define the flared section 152 are convexly contoured in the longitudinal direction and diverge from the longitudinal axis A-A with distance from the spout inlet 148.
- the pouring spouts 140J-D are provided with topographical features that may increase the exposed surface area of the scented household liquid 200 and/or alter the fluid dynamics of the scented household liquid 200 during the product dispensing event, thereby increasing the amount of scent released.
- the topographical feature which may be in the form of a plurality of depressions and/or a plurality of protuberances, are provided on at least one of the floor surface 144D-J, the first side surface 145D-J, or the second side surface 146D-J.
- each of the floor surface 144D-J, the first side surface 145D-J, and the second side surface 146D-J of the pouring spouts 140D-J may be provided with the desired configuration of the topographical feature(s).
- the plurality of protuberances are exemplified as ridges while the plurality of depressions are exemplified as grooves.
- the protuberances may be in the form of, without limitation, posts, conical nubs, truncated nubs, and combinations thereof.
- the depressions may be in the form of, without limitation, dimples, troughs, valleys, and combinations thereof.
- spout fitments 130D-J with topographical features are exemplified herein, it is to be understood that a wide variety of orientations and combinations of topographical features are envisioned.
- Each of the spout fitments 130D-J can be coupled to the container body 110 of FIGS. 1-2, as discussed above for the spout fitment 130, to form a packaged product 1000 according to the present invention.
- the above discussion of the spout fitment 130 (and its relation and incorporation into the container body 110 and the packaged product 1000) is applicable to each of the spout fitments 130D-J. Therefore, in order to avoid redundancy, only those aspects of the spout fitments 130D-J that differ from the spout fitment 130 will be described below. To this end, like structures will be identified with like reference numerals, with the exception that alphabetical suffixes "D-J" will be added.
- each of the pouring spouts 140D-J are exemplified as including a flared section 152D-J
- the inclusion of the topographical features on the pouring spouts 140D-J may, in certain embodiments, constitute an aspect of the invention without the existence of a flared section.
- the pouring spouts 140D-J of the spout fitments 130D-J may not include a flared section as discussed above for FIG. 1-6.
- a first embodiment of a spout fitment 130D that includes a pouring spout 140D including a topographical feature that may increase the amount of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed.
- the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality of protuberances, which are in the form of a plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D.
- the transversely extending ridges 175D in the exemplified embodiment, extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A. In other embodiments, however, the transversely extending ridges 175D may extend obliquely to the longitudinal axis A-A.
- the transversely extending ridges 175D are longitudinally spaced apart from one another along the pouring spout 140D so as to form an undulating surface. While the transversely extending ridges 175D are exemplified as having a rectangular cross-section, the transversely extending ridges 175D may have other cross-sectional shapes, such as triangular or semi -oval. In one particular embodiment, the transversely extending ridges 175D (and the spaces therebetween) may have cross-sectional shapes such that an undulating surface is formed, wherein the undulations take the form of a repetitive pattern of concave valleys and convex peaks.
- the undulations may take on a sinusoidal configuration so that the spout resembles a traditional washboard.
- the transversely extending ridges 175D are substantially parallel to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may be arranged in non- parallel arrangements in other embodiments.
- the transversely extending ridges 175D protrude from and extend continuously across each of the floor surface 144D, the first side surface 145D, and the second side surface 146D.
- each of the first and second side surfaces 145D, 146D and the floor surface 144D can be considered to comprises a plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D that protrude into the flow channel 147D.
- the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D may be omitted from the first and second side surfaces 145D, 146D such that only the floor surface 144D may comprise the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D, and vice versa.
- the transversely extending ridges 175D are exemplified in the form of elongated ribs. In other embodiments, the transversely extending ridges 175D may be in the form successive steps formed into the pouring spout 140D. Additionally, while the transversely extending ridges 175D are exemplified as continuous structures, the transversely extending ridges 175D may be segmented in other embodiments. In such embodiments, each segment of a transversely extending ridge 175D may be considered, and referred to as, a transversely extending ridge.
- the transversely extending ridges 175D are linear in the exemplified embodiment but may be nonlinear in other embodiments, such as curved, either convex and/or concave.
- the transversely extending ridges 175D may cause waves or other irregularities and/or turbulences in the stream of the scented household product 200 flowing through the flow channel 147. As a result, an increased amount of scent may be released from the scented household product 200 during the product dispensing event.
- a second embodiment of a spout fitment 130E that includes a pouring spout 140E including a topographical feature that may increase the amount of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed.
- the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality of protuberances, which are in the form of a plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E.
- each of the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E extend the entire length of the pouring spout 140E from the spout inlet 148E to the spout outlet 149E.
- one or more of the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E may extend less than the entire length of the pouring spout 140E.
- the longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E are transversely spaced apart from one another.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E are located along and protrude from the floor surface 144E of the pouring spout 140E into the flow channel 147E.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E are transversely spaced from another. While the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E are exemplified as having a rectangular cross-section, the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E may have other cross-sectional shapes, such as triangular or semi-oval.
- plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E may have cross-sectional shapes such that an undulating surface is formed, wherein the undulations take the form of a repetitive pattern of concave valleys and convex peaks.
- the undulations may take on a sinusoidal configuration.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E diverge from one another with longitudinal distance from the spout inlet 148E. More specifically, the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E diverge from one another along the flared section 152E of the flow channel 147.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E may not only assist with creating waves and/or irregularities in the stream of the scented household liquid 200 during a product dispensing event, but may also assist with spreading/widening the stream of the scented household liquid 200 as it flows through the flared section 152E, thereby ensuring an increase in the exposed surface area of the scented household liquid 200.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E may also assist with separating the product flow into isolated streams and preventing surface tension of the scented household liquid 200 from causing the product flow to converge.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E may be arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal axis A-A so as to intersect each other along the longitudinal axis A-A to form consecutively nesting V-shaped ridges. In other embodiments, however, the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E may extend substantially parallel to one another and/or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 177E are located along and protrude from the first side surface 145E of the pouring spout 140E into the flow channel 147E.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 177E extend substantially parallel to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may extend non-parallel to one another in other embodiments.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 178E are located along and protrude from the second side surface 146E of the pouring spout 140E into the flow channel 147E.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 178E extend substantially parallel to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may extend non-parallel to one another in other embodiments.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 177E, 178E may further assist with increasing the amount of scent released from the scented household liquid 200 during a product dispensing event by directing and maintaining a portion of the flow of the scented household liquid 200 along the first and second side surfaces 145E, 146E.
- the scented household liquid 200 may coat the floor surface 144E, the first side surface 145E, and the second side surface 146E during a product dispensing event.
- the existence of the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 177E, 178E along the first and second side surfaces 145E, 146E may be particularly useful in embodiments in which the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 177E, 178E are located along a flared section 152E of the flow channel 147E.
- the width D of the flow channel 147E is narrowed at the entry point of the flared section 152E (compared to the remainder of the flared section 152E)
- the depth of the stream of the scented household product 200 will be elevated at the entry point, allowing the scented household product 200 to ride up along the first and second side surfaces 145E, 146E.
- the scented household product 200 flows down the flared section 152E, it widens out and becomes shallower. However, some of the scented household product 200 that rode up along the first and second side surfaces 145E, 146E at the entry point will be carried down the first and second side surfaces 145E, 146E pouring spout 140E along the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 177E, 178E.
- each of the floor surface 144E, the first side surface 145E, and the second side surface 146E comprise the longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 177E, 178E may be omitted from the first and second side surfaces 145E, 146E such that only the floor surface 144E may comprise the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E may be omitted from the floor surface 144E such that only the first and second side surfaces 145E, 146E comprise the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 177E, 178E.
- the longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E are exemplified in the form of elongated ribs. In other embodiments, the transversely extending ridges 175D may be in the form of steps formed into the pouring spout 140E. Additionally, while the longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E are exemplified as continuous structures, the longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E may be segmented in other embodiments. In such embodiments, a segment of the longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E may be considered and referred to as a longitudinally extending ridge in of itself.
- a third embodiment of a spout fitment 130F that includes a pouring spout 140F having a topographical feature that may increase the amount of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed.
- the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality of protuberances, which include a combination of the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D (discussed above in relation to FIGS. 9-11) and the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E (discussed above in relation to FIGS. 12-14).
- the pouring spout 140F of the spout fitment 13 OF comprises both the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D, which are in segmented form, and the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E.
- the floor surface 144F comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E and segments of the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D (which can be considered transversely extending ridges).
- the first side surface 145F comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 177E and segments of the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D (which can be considered transversely extending ridges).
- the second side surface 146F comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 178E and segments of the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D (which can be considered transversely extending ridges).
- the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D are segmented such that the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D do not intersect with any of the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E. Rather, the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D and the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E form a non-intersecting grid arrangement. In certain other embodiments, the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D may intersect with the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E to form an intersecting grid arrangement.
- a fourth embodiment of a spout fitment 130G that includes a pouring spout 140G including a topographical feature that may increase the amount of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed.
- the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality of depressions, which are in the form of a plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G.
- the transversely extending grooves 185G in the exemplified embodiment, extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A. In other embodiments, however, the transversely extending grooves 185G may extend obliquely to the longitudinal axis A-A.
- the transversely extending grooves 185G are longitudinally spaced apart from one another along the pouring spout 140G.
- the transversely extending grooves 185G are substantially parallel to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may be arranged in non- parallel arrangements in other embodiments.
- the transversely extending grooves 185G are formed in and extend continuously across each of the floor surface 144G, the first side surface 145G, and the second side surface 146G.
- each of the first and second side surfaces 145G, 146G and the floor surface 144G can be considered to comprises a plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G.
- the plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G may be omitted from the first and second side surfaces 145G, 146G such that only the floor surface 144G may comprise the plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G, and vice versa.
- the transversely extending grooves 185G are exemplified in the form of elongated V- shaped channels.
- the transversely extending grooves 185G may have different sectional shapes, such as rectangular or semi-oval.
- the transversely extending grooves 185G (and the peaks therebetween) may have cross-sectional shapes such that an undulating surface is formed, wherein the undulations take the form of a repetitive pattern of concave valleys and convex peaks.
- the undulations may take on a sinusoidal configuration so that the spout resembles a traditional washboard.
- transversely extending grooves 185G are exemplified as continuous trenches, the transversely extending grooves 185G may be segmented in other embodiments.
- the transversely extending grooves 185G are linear in the exemplified embodiment but may be nonlinear in other embodiments, such as curved, either convex and/or concave.
- the transversely extending grooves 185G may cause waves or other irregularities and/or turbulences in the stream of the scented household product 200 flowing through the flow channel 147G. As a result, an increased amount of scent may be released from the scented household product 200 during the product dispensing event.
- a fifth embodiment of a spout fitment 13 OH that includes a pouring spout 140H including a topographical feature that may increase the amount of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed.
- the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality of depressions, which are in the form of a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H.
- each of the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H extend the entire length of the pouring spout 140H from the spout inlet 148H to the spout outlet 149H.
- one or more of the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H may extend less than the entire length of the pouring spout 140H.
- the longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H are transversely spaced apart from one another.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H are located along and formed into the floor surface 144H of the pouring spout 140H.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H are transversely spaced from another.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H diverge from one another with longitudinal distance from the spout inlet 148H. More specifically, the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H diverge from one another along the flared section 152H of the flow channel 147H.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H may not only assist with creating waves and/or irregularities in the stream of the scented household liquid 200 during a product dispensing event, but may also assist with spreading/widening the stream of the scented household liquid 200 as it flows through the flared section 152H, thereby ensuring an increase in the exposed surface area of the scented household liquid 200.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H may be arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal axis A-A so as to intersect each other along the longitudinal axis A-A to form consecutively nesting V-shaped grooves. In other embodiments, however, the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H may extend substantially parallel to one another and/or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 187H are located along and formed into the first side surface 145H of the pouring spout 140H.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 187H extend substantially parallel to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may extend non-parallel to one another in other embodiments.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 188H are located along and formed into the second side surface 146H of the pouring spout 140H.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 188H extend substantially parallel to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may extend non-parallel to one another in other embodiments.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 187H, 188H may further assist with increasing the amount of scent released from the scented household liquid 200 during a product dispensing event by directing a portion of the flow of the scented household liquid 200 along the first and second side surfaces 145H, 146H.
- the scented household liquid 200 may coat the floor surface 144H, the first side surface 145H, and the second side surface 146H during a product dispensing event.
- the existence of the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 187H, 188H along the first and second side surfaces 145H, 146H may be particularly useful in embodiments in which the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 187H, 188H are located along a flared section 152H of the flow channel 147H.
- the width D of the flow channel 147HH is narrowed at the entry point of the flared section 152H (compared to the remainder of the flared section 152H)
- the depth of the stream of the scented household product 200 will be elevated at the entry point, allowing the scented household product 200 to ride up along the first and second side surfaces 145H, 146H.
- each of the floor surface 144H, the first side surface 145H, and the second side surface 146H comprise the longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H.
- the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 187H, 188H may be omitted from the first and second side surfaces 145H, 146H such that only the floor surface 144H may comprise the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H. In other embodiments, the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H may be omitted from the floor surface 144H such that only the first and second side surfaces 145H, 146H comprise the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 187H, 188H.
- the longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H are exemplified in the form of elongated V-shaped channels.
- the longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H may have different sectional shapes, such as rectangular or semi-oval.
- the longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H (and the peaks therebetween) may have cross-sectional shapes such that an undulating surface is formed, wherein the undulations take the form of a repetitive pattern of concave valleys and convex peaks. In one such specific embodiment, the undulations may take on a sinusoidal configuration.
- longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H are exemplified as continuous trenches, the longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H may be segmented in other embodiments.
- the longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H are linear in the exemplified embodiment but may be nonlinear in other embodiments, such as curved, either convex and/or concave.
- a sixth embodiment of a spout fitment 1301 that includes a pouring spout 1401 including a topographical feature that may increase the amount of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed.
- the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality of protuberances and a plurality of depressions.
- the plurality of protuberances are in the form of a plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D (discussed above in relation to FIGS. 9-11) and the plurality of depressions are in the form of a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H (discussed above in relation to FIGS. 21-23).
- the pouring spout 1401 of the spout fitment 1301 comprises both the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D, which are in segmented form, and the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H.
- the floor surface 1441 comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H and segments of the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D (which can be considered transversely extending ridges).
- the first side surface 1451 comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 187H and segments of the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D (which can be considered transversely extending ridges).
- the second side surface 1461 comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 188H and segments of the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D (which can be considered transversely extending ridges).
- the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D are segmented such that the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D do not intersect with any of the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H. Rather, the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D and the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H to form a non-intersecting grid arrangement. In certain other embodiments, the plurality of transversely extending ridges 175D may intersect with the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 186H, 187H, 188H to form an intersecting grid arrangement.
- a seventh embodiment of a spout fitment 130J that includes a pouring spout 140J including a topographical feature that may increase the amount of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed.
- the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality of protuberances and a plurality of depressions.
- the plurality of protuberances are in the form of the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E (discussed above in relation to FIGS. 12-14) and the plurality of depressions are in the form of the plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G (discussed above in relation to FIGS. 18-20).
- the pouring spout 140J of the spout fitment 130J comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E and the plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G (which are in segmented form).
- the floor surface 144J comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E and segments of the plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G (which can be considered transversely extending grooves).
- the first side surface 145 J comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 177E and segments of the plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G (which can be considered transversely extending grooves).
- the second side surface 146 J comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 178E and segments of the plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G (which can be considered transversely extending grooves).
- the plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G are segmented such that the plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G do not intersect with any of the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E. Rather, the plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G and the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E to form a non-intersecting grid arrangement. In certain other embodiments, the plurality of transversely extending grooves 185G may intersect with the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges 176E, 177E, 178E to form an intersecting grid arrangement.
- the exact structural manifestation and arrangement of the topographical feature(s) on the pouring spout to increase scent release can be varied widely in accordance with the present invention.
- the topographical feature may consist of a roughened surface comprising surface irregularities.
- both longitudinally extending grooves and longitudinally extending ridges may be combined.
- a porous element may be included around the spout fitment 130.
- the porous element is suitable for retaining a quantity of the scented household liquid 200.
- the porous element captures, or becomes infused with, the scented household liquid 200 and its fragrance either by simple contact with the scented household liquid 200 or by capillary action as a result of coming into contact with the scented household liquid 200.
- a potential purchaser is thus able to determine accurately the fragrance of the scented household liquid 200 prior to purchasing the container 100.
- throughout the working lifetime of the container 100 i.e.
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Abstract
Description
Claims
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
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PCT/US2014/024605 WO2015137944A1 (en) | 2014-03-12 | 2014-03-12 | Pouring spout and package including the same |
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EP3107818A1 true EP3107818A1 (en) | 2016-12-28 |
EP3107818B1 EP3107818B1 (en) | 2018-05-09 |
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JP2020531379A (en) | 2017-09-06 | 2020-11-05 | ザ プロクター アンド ギャンブル カンパニーThe Procter & Gamble Company | Equipment and processes for distributing measured amounts of liquid products |
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US10336514B1 (en) * | 2018-06-18 | 2019-07-02 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Angled spout associated with a timer for dispensing a controlled quantity of liquid composition |
US11099044B1 (en) * | 2020-05-29 | 2021-08-24 | Silgan Dispensing Systems Corporation | Dosing timer and dispensers using the same |
US11054294B1 (en) * | 2020-05-29 | 2021-07-06 | Silgan Dispensing Systems Corporation | Dosing timer and dispensers using the same |
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US4637530A (en) * | 1985-05-09 | 1987-01-20 | Jiang Chih Chang | Dispenser for a liquid container |
CH671385A5 (en) * | 1986-10-14 | 1989-08-31 | Procter & Gamble | |
US4817832A (en) * | 1987-09-10 | 1989-04-04 | Nagy Joan M | Telescoping nozzle assembly |
US4880140A (en) * | 1988-04-26 | 1989-11-14 | Solomon David E | Filter-separator pour-out cap |
FR2633590B1 (en) * | 1988-07-01 | 1990-11-02 | Astra Plastique | PLUG IN SYNTHETIC MATERIAL WITH ARTICULATED CAP |
US5060827A (en) * | 1990-05-09 | 1991-10-29 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Low profile anti-drip dosing cap and spout for liquid containers |
US5388298A (en) * | 1990-11-30 | 1995-02-14 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Device for the machine washing of clothes and the method of utilizing said device |
US5435467A (en) * | 1994-04-20 | 1995-07-25 | Phoenix Closures, Inc. | Stackable dispenser closure |
DE4433160A1 (en) * | 1994-09-17 | 1996-03-21 | Berg Jacob Gmbh Co Kg | Container lock with child lock |
ES1032670Y (en) * | 1995-12-04 | 1996-11-01 | Aux Metalgrafica Aragones Sa | SPILL PLUG |
US5868283A (en) * | 1996-07-02 | 1999-02-09 | Lever Brothers Company, Division Of Conopco, Inc. | Reclosable closure and bottle |
US6375041B1 (en) * | 1999-09-28 | 2002-04-23 | Sunpat L.L.C. | Rechargeable dispensing device |
CA2691256C (en) * | 2010-01-26 | 2014-11-25 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Detergent dispensing and pre-treatment cap |
US7207466B2 (en) * | 2001-12-05 | 2007-04-24 | Masterchem Industries Llc | Spout |
US6968980B2 (en) * | 2003-12-30 | 2005-11-29 | Unilever Home & Personal Care Usa, A Division Of Conopco, Inc. | Pour spout fitment and container |
US7520410B2 (en) * | 2004-03-01 | 2009-04-21 | Masterchem Industries, Llc | Container sealing system |
DE202009004577U1 (en) * | 2009-04-02 | 2009-07-02 | Amels, Olaf | Cartridge attachment for applying filling material |
GB201107358D0 (en) * | 2011-04-28 | 2011-06-15 | Obrist Closures Switzerland | A pouring fitment |
ES2651712T3 (en) * | 2012-05-21 | 2018-01-29 | Bayer Consumer Care Ag | Accessory and container for powdered products, especially for powdered products with a tendency to lump |
EP3107819B1 (en) * | 2014-03-12 | 2018-05-09 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Package including pouring spout |
-
2014
- 2014-03-12 MX MX2016011449A patent/MX2016011449A/en active IP Right Grant
- 2014-03-12 WO PCT/US2014/024605 patent/WO2015137944A1/en active Application Filing
- 2014-03-12 US US15/125,481 patent/US20170073115A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2014-03-12 EP EP14714543.7A patent/EP3107818B1/en active Active
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
MX2016011449A (en) | 2017-03-31 |
US20170073115A1 (en) | 2017-03-16 |
EP3107818B1 (en) | 2018-05-09 |
WO2015137944A1 (en) | 2015-09-17 |
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