NL2017638B1

NL2017638B1 - A container closure

Info

Publication number: NL2017638B1
Application number: NL2017638A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Everhardus Ganzeboom Wilhelmus
Original assignee: Gab Eng & Development B V
Priority date: 2016-10-19
Filing date: 2016-10-19
Publication date: 2018-04-26
Also published as: WO2018074920A1

Abstract

The invention is directed to a container closure 1, suited for use as a closable opening for a container, comprising a first female member 2,32 having a body provided with a first channel 3,33 along an axis 4,34 which channel 3,33 may fluidly connect the interior of the container and the exterior of the container. In said first channel 3,33 a cap 9,39 is positioned at the side facing the container and wherein the cap 9,39 can move axially from a first position to a second position and wherein in the first position the cap 9,39 provides a fluid seal and in the second position provides a fluid

Description

OctrooicentrumPatent center

NederlandThe Netherlands

(21) Aanvraagnummer: 2017638 © Aanvraag ingediend: 19/10/2016(21) Application number: 2017638 © Application submitted: 19/10/2016

Θ 2017638Θ 2017638

Bl OCTROOI @ Int. CL:BL PATENT @ Int. CL:

B65D 75/58 (2017.01) B65D 77/06 (2017.01) B67D 7/00 (2017.01)B65D 75/58 (2017.01) B65D 77/06 (2017.01) B67D 7/00 (2017.01)

Aanvraag ingeschreven: Application registered: (73) Octrooihouder(s): (73) Patent holder (s): 26/04/2018 26/04/2018 GAB Engineering & Development B.V. GAB Engineering & Development B.V. te Haarlem. in Haarlem. (43) Aanvraag gepubliceerd: (43) Application published: (72) Uitvinder(s): (72) Inventor (s): (ff) Octrooi verleend: (ff) Patent granted: Wilhelmus Everhardus Ganzeboom Wilhelmus Everhardus Ganzeboom 26/04/2018 26/04/2018 te Haarlem. in Haarlem. (45) Octrooischrift uitgegeven: (45) Patent issued: 26/04/2018 26/04/2018 (74) Gemachtigde: (74) Agent: ir. M. Cramwinckel te Steenwijk. ir. M. Cramwinckel in Steenwijk.

(54) A CONTAINER CLOSURE (57) The invention is directed to a container closure 1, suited for use as a closable opening for a container, comprising a first female member 2,32 having a body provided with a first channel 3,33 along an axis 4,34 which channel 3,33 may fluidly connect the interior of the container and the exterior of the container. In said first channel 3,33 a cap 9,39 is positioned at the side facing the container and wherein the cap 9,39 can move axially from a first position to a second position and wherein in the first position the cap 9,39 provides a fluid seal and in the second position provides a fluid(54) A CONTAINER CLOSURE (57) The invention is directed to a container closure 1, suited for use as a closable opening for a container, including a first female member 2.32 having a body provided with a first channel 3.33 along an axis 4.34 which channel 3.33 may fluidly connect the interior of the container and the exterior of the container. In said first channel 3.33 a cap 9.39 is positioned at the side facing the container and bearing the cap 9.39 can move axially from a first position to a second position and being in the first position the cap 9.39 provides a fluid seal and in the second position provides a fluid

NL Bl 2017638NL Bl 2017638

Dit octrooi is verleend ongeacht het bijgevoegde resultaat van het onderzoek naar de stand van de techniek en schriftelijke opinie. Het octrooischrift komt overeen met de oorspronkelijk ingediende stukken.This patent has been granted regardless of the attached result of the research into the state of the art and written opinion. The patent corresponds to the documents originally submitted.

A CONTAINER CLOSUREA CONTAINER CLOSURE

The invention is directed to a container closure suited for use as a closable opening for a container. The invention is also directed to a container provided with this container closure.The invention is directed to a container closure suitable for use as a closable opening for a container. The invention is also directed to a container provided with this container closure.

US4375864 describes a container closure having a body provided with a channel which connects the exterior of the container with the interior of the container. The channel is closed by a plug which seals the opening through a first snap fitting. When an external member, such as a suction tube of a pump, is inserted into the channel from the exterior of the container it will engage with the plug by means of a second snap fitting and disengage the first snap fitting. When the external member is retracted from the container closure the second snap fitting disengages and the first snap fitting engages. A disadvantage of such a closure is that it is very sensitive to material fatigue. With this closure it is well possible that after multiple use the external member pushes the plug into the container without engaging with the plug.US4375864 describes a container closure having a body provided with a channel which connects the exterior of the container with the interior of the container. The channel is closed by a plug which seals the opening through a first snap fitting. When an external member, such as a suction tube or a pump, is inserted into the channel from the exterior of the container it will engage with the plug by means of a second snap fitting and disengage the first snap fitting. When the external member is retracted from the container closure the second snap fitting disengages and the first snap fitting engages. A disadvantage of such a closure is that it is very sensitive to material fatigue. With this closure it is well possible that after multiple use the external member pushes the plug into the container without engaging with the plug.

This disadvantage is overcome with the container closure of EP1233228. EP1233228 describes a container closure provided with a female part and a plug. The female part has a body containing an axial bore which extends from an insert opening for a male part through the body and having a seat for the plug at its opposite end. The plug serves to close off the bore. The plug is connected to the female member by a flexible ring wall which avoids that the plug can be lost in the container as with the closure of US4375864. The flexible ring wall ensures that the plug rests under pre-stress on the bore such to close off the bore. When a male part, such a suction tube of a pump, is inserted into the female part from the exterior of the container the tip of the male part can axially move the plug from its seat and so create a fluid passage. When the male part is withdrawn the plug will return to its seat because of the flexible ring. In this design there is less danger that the plug is lost in the container as with the closure of US4375864.This disadvantage is overcome with the container closure or EP1233228. EP1233228 describes a container closure provided with a female part and a plug. The female part has a body containing an axial bore which extends from an insert opening for a male part through the body and having a seat for the plug at its opposite end. The plug serves to close off the bore. The plug is connected to the female member by a flexible ring wall which avoids that the plug can be lost in the container with the closure or US4375864. The flexible ring wall ensures that the plug rests under pre-stress on the bore such to close off the bore. When a male part, such a suction tube or a pump, is inserted into the female part from the exterior of the container the tip of the male part can axially move the plug from its seat and create a fluid passage. When the male part is withdrawn the plug will return to its seat because of the flexible ring. In this design there is less danger that the plug is lost in the container as with the closure or US4375864.

A disadvantage of the container closure according to EP1233228 is that the female part is sensitive to mechanical failure. This may be explained by the fact that such female members have to be welded into plastic bags. The flexible ring wall of the female member may then be damaged.A disadvantage of the container closure according to EP1233228 is that the female part is sensitive to mechanical failure. This may be explained by the fact that such female members have been welcomed into plastic bags. The flexible ring wall of the female member may then be damaged.

The invention is directed to provide a more robust container closure which can be welded into plastic bags without the above described problems.The invention is directed to provide a more robust container closure which can be well into plastic bags without the problems described above.

This is achieved by the following container closure. A container closure, suited for use as a closable opening for a container, comprising a first female member having a body provided with a first channel along an axis, which channel may fluidly connect the interior of the container and the exterior of the container, and wherein in said first channel a second female member is positioned, said second female member having a body provided with a second co-axial channel suited to receive an external male member from the exterior of the container and which body of the second female member has an exterior surface which provides a fluid seal with the interior surface of the first female member, and wherein in said first channel a cap is positioned relative to the second female member at the side facing the container and wherein the cap can move axially relative to the second female member from a first position to a second position and wherein in the first position the cap provides a fluid seal and in the second position provides a fluid connection between the interior of the container and the exterior of the container.This is achieved through the following container closure. A container closure, suited for use as a closable opening for a container, including a first female member having a body provided with a first channel along an axis, which channel may fluidly connect the interior of the container and the exterior of the container, and said in said first channel a second female member is positioned, said second female member having a body provided with a second co-axial channel suited to receive an external male member from the exterior of the container and which body of the second female member has an exterior surface which provides a fluid seal with the interior surface of the first female member, and said in said first channel a cap is positioned relative to the second female member at the side facing the container and being the cap can move axially relative to the second female member from a first position to a second position and in the first position the cap provides a fluid seal and in the second position provides a fluid connect ion between the interior of the container and the exterior of the container.

The container closure according to the invention can be welded into a plastic bag by welding only the first female member. The second female member and plug may be positioned into the first female member after this member is fixed to the plastic bag. Because the first female member does not have any heat sensitive fragile parts as in the prior art closure a more robust container closure is provided which can be welded into plastic bags without damaging the closure itself.The container closure according to the invention can be welcomed into a plastic bag by welding only the first female member. The second female member and plug may be positioned into the first female member after this member is fixed to the plastic bag. Because the first female member does not have any heat sensitive fragile parts as in the prior art closure a more robust container closure is provided which can be done into plastic bags without damaging the closure itself.

A further advantage is that the first channel of the first female body provides an easy access for filing the container with a fluid. By subsequently positioning the cap and second female member into the first channel the container filled with a fluid can be closed and is ready for transport. For ensuring that the fluid seal of the first position is sufficient to avoid leakage during transport it is preferred that the cap and second female member are connected by a snap or clamping connection. This may be achieved by pressing the cap onto the second female member before positioning the thus assembled cap and second female member into the first channel of the first female member.A further advantage is that the first channel or the first female body provides an easy access for filing the container with a fluid. By following positioning the cap and second female member into the first channel the container filled with a fluid can be closed and ready for transport. For ensuring that the fluid seal or the first position is sufficient to avoid leakage during transport it is preferred that the cap and second female member are connected by a snap or clamping connection. This may have been achieved by pressing the cap onto the second female member before positioning the thus assembled cap and second female member into the first channel or the first female member.

In this descriptions terms as in the direction of the container, facing the container and exterior of the container is used to describe elements and relative positions of such elements of the container closure. It is clear that with the term in the direction of the container or facing the container is meant the direction viewed relative from an element of the container closure towards the container when the container closure is part of a container. With the term exterior of the container is meant the direction viewed relative from an element of the container closure away from the container when the container closure is part of a container. These terms do not in any manner intend to mean that a container is part of the container closure.In these descriptions terms as in the direction of the container, facing the container and exterior of the container is used to describe elements and relative positions or such elements of the container closure. It is clear that with the term in the direction of the container or facing the container is meant the direction viewed relative from an element of the container closure towards the container when the container closure is part of a container. With the term exterior of the container is meant the direction viewed relative from an element of the container closure away from the container when the container closure is part of a container. These terms do not in any way intend to mean that a container is part of the container closure.

The container closure may be used to close containers comprising fluids or powders having flow properties comparable to fluids and which powders are able to flow through the container closure. Examples of such powders are toner powder for printers, coffee powder and milk powder. Preferably the containers comprises fluids, such as aqueous soap solutions, cosmetic creams and soft drink syrup.The container closure may be used to close containers including fluids or powders having flow properties comparable to fluids and which powders are able to flow through the container closure. Examples of such powders are toner powder for printers, coffee powder and milk powder. Preferably the containers consists of fluids, such as aqueous soap solutions, cosmetic creams and soft drink syrup.

Suitably the cap can move in an axial direction with respect to the second female member from a first position to a second position and back to a third position. In the first position the cap and second female member provide a fluid seal connection by means of a snap or clamping connection. In the second position the cap is axially displaced relative to the second female member towards the interior of the container and in the third position the cap rests on the second female member to provide a fluid seal. The fluid seal in the third position is not necessarily as tight as in the first position. The objective of the fluid seal in the third position is primary to avoid that fluid drips from the container when an external male member is pulled from the second channel.Suitably the cap can move in an axial direction with respect to the second female member from a first position to a second position and back to a third position. In the first position the cap and second female member provide a fluid seal connection by means of a snap or clamping connection. In the second position the cap is axially displaced relative to the second female member towards the interior of the container and in the third position the cap rests on the second female member to provide a fluid seal. The fluid seal in the third position is not necessarily as tight as in the first position. The objective of the fluid seal in the third position is primary to avoid that fluid drips from the container when an external male member is pulled from the second channel.

Suitably the container closure is further provided with a resilient member which resiliently biases the cap from the second position to the third position. Such a resilient member can be designed such to provide enough force to achieve the fluid seal for avoiding dripping of fluid from the container in the third position. The first female member may be provided with the resilient member at the side of the container which resiliently biases the cap from the second position to the third position.Suitably the container closure is further provided with a resilient member which resiliently biases the cap from the second position to the third position. Such a resilient member can be designed such to provide enough force to achieve the fluid seal for avoiding dripping or fluid from the container in the third position. The first female member may be provided with the resilient member on the side of the container which resiliently biases the cap from the second position to the third position.

The resilient member may also be part of the cap. Suitably the cap comprises a circular head and a base ring spaced from the circular head towards the second female member and having an opening for passage of the second female member. The head of the cap is suitably connected to the base ring by a resilient member. Preferably the resilient member, the cap and the base ring are made as one structural element.The resilient member may also be part of the cap. Suitably the cap comprises a circular head and a base ring spaced from the circular head towards the second female member and having an opening for passage or the second female member. The head of the cap is suitably connected to the base ring by a resilient member. Preferably the resilient member, the cap and the base ring are made as one structural element.

In the above described cap it is preferred that the base ring of the cap is fixed into position by assembly of the second female member, cap and the first female member such that the base ring cannot move in an axial direction relative to the second female member.In the above described cap it is preferred that the base ring or the cap is fixed into position by assembly of the second female member, cap and the first female member such that the base ring cannot move in an axial direction relative to the second female member .

The resilient member may be made from materials known for such use. Examples of suitable materials are polyoxymethylene (POM), polyamide or spring steel. When the resilient member, the head of the cap and the base ring are made as one structural element it is preferred that this structural element is comprised of polyoxymethylene.The resilient member may be made from materials known for such use. Examples of suitable materials are polyoxymethylene (POM), polyamide or spring steel. When the resilient member, the head of the cap and the base ring are made as one structural element it is preferred that this structural element is comprised of polyoxymethylene.

The snap or clamping connection in the first position is preferably achieved by a cap and second female member as described below. The second female member has a tubular open end facing the container. The cap comprises a circular head from which edge a rim extends towards the second female member. The cap comprises a pin which extends from its centre co-axial towards and into the open end of the second female member. The snap or clamping connection of the first position will be achieved by a snap or clamping connection between the radially outer side of the open end of the second female member and the rim of the cap and/or by a snap or clamping connection between the radially inner side of the open end and the radially outer side of pin. Suitably the first position is at least a snap or clamping connection between the radially outer side of the open end of the second female member and the rim of the cap and a snap or clamping connection between the radially inner side of the open end and the radially outer side of pin.The snap or clamping connection in the first position is preferably achieved by a cap and second female member as described below. The second female member has a tubular open end facing the container. The cap comprises a circular head from which edge a rim extends towards the second female member. The cap comprises a pin which extends from its center co-axial towards and into the open end of the second female member. The snap or clamping connection of the first position will be achieved by a snap or clamping connection between the radially outer side of the open end of the second female member and the rim of the cap and / or a snap or clamping connection between the radially inner side or the open end and the radially outer side or pin. Suitably the first position is at least a snap or clamping connection between the radially outer side of the open end of the second female member and the rim of the cap and a snap or clamping connection between the radially inner side of the open end and the radially outer side or pin.

The pin suitably has a cylindrical or tubular cross-section at the end near the head of the cap. The radially inner side of the open end is suitably shaped to receive the radially outer side of the pin to form a fluid seal. The end of the pin facing the exterior of the container suitably has a smaller cross-sectional area as the part nearer the circular head of the pin. This to create the flow path when the cap is axially moved towards the container. This axial movement is achieved when the external male member is inserted into the second channel from the exterior of the container. The external male member will contact the end of the pin and push it towards the container when the external member is inserted into the second channel. The external member may be a suction tube of a pump. Typically such a tube is hollow having an opening at its end. The end of the pin should be shaped such that it on the one hand can be pushed in an axial direction by the tip of the external male member and on the other hand does not block the inlet of the suction tube. Possible cross-sectional shapes of the end of the pin may be square wherein part of the inlet of the suction tube of the external member is not covered. Alternatively, a circular shape provided with grooves may be used wherein the grooves provide part of the flow path between the interior and the exterior of the container.The pin suitably has a cylindrical or tubular cross-section at the end near the head of the cap. The radially inner side or the open end is suitably shaped to receive the radially outer side or the pin to form a fluid seal. The end of the pin facing the exterior of the container suitably has a narrower cross-sectional area as the part nearer the circular head of the pin. This to create the flow path when the cap is axially moved towards the container. This axial movement is achieved when the external male member is inserted into the second channel from the exterior of the container. The external male member will contact the end of the pin and push it towards the container when the external member is inserted into the second channel. The external member may be a suction tube or a pump. Typically such a tube is hollow having an opening at its end. The end of the pin should be shaped such that it can be pushed in one axial direction by the tip of the external male member and the other hand does not block the inlet of the suction tube. Possible cross-sectional shapes or the end of the pin may be square or part of the inlet or the suction tube or the external member is not covered. Alternatively, a circular shape provided with grooves may be used in the grooves provide part of the flow path between the interior and the exterior of the container.

The second position of the above closure is wherein the cap is axially displaced relative to the second female member towards the container such that a flow path for fluid is created between the open end of the second female member and cap. This flow path fluidly connects the interior of the container and the exterior of the container. In the third position the radially outer side of pin of cap rests on the radially inner side of the open end of the second female member to provide the fluid seal. The force exercised by the resilient member on the cap will suitably ensure a sufficient fluid seal between the radially outer side of pin of the cap and the radially innerside of the open end of the second female member.The second position of the above closure is the cap is axially displaced relative to the second female member towards the container such a flow path for fluid is created between the open end of the second female member and cap. This flow path fluidly connects the interior of the container and the exterior of the container. In the third position the radially outer side or pin or cap remains on the radially inner side or the open end or the second female member to provide the fluid seal. The force exercised by the resilient member on the cap will suitably ensure a sufficient fluid seal between the radially outer side or pin of the cap and the radially innerside of the open end of the second female member.

The invention is also directed to a container comprising a container closure according to the invention. The container may be a cartridge comprising toner powder. Preferably the container is suited to hold a liquid. Preferably the container has a flexible wall. This is advantageous because when liquid is discharged from the container via the container closure no replacement air is required to be added to the container in order to avoid a vacuum. Possible flexible walls are made of a thermoplastic polymer such as polypropylene or polyethylene.The invention is also directed to a container including a container closure to the invention. The container may be a cartridge including toner powder. Preferably the container is suited to hold a liquid. Preferably the container has a flexible wall. This is advantageous because when liquid is discharged from the container via the container closure no replacement air is required to be added to the container in order to avoid a vacuum. Possible flexible walls are made from a thermoplastic polymer such as polypropylene or polyethylene.

The second female member and/or cap may be made by the same material as the first female member. Preferably second female member and/or cap are made of a polymer which has antibacterial properties, preferably polymers selected from among polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polyvinylchloride (PVC) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), nylon and polystyrene, having antibacterial properties such as for example described in WO14155156.The second female member and / or cap may be made by the same material as the first female member. Preferably second female member and / or cap are made of a polymer which has antibacterial properties, preferably polymers selected from among polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene terephthalate ( PET), nylon and polystyrene, having antibacterial properties such as for example described in WO14155156.

The container is suitably a flexible bag. The first female member is positioned in an opening of the flexible bag. Preferably the material of the flexible bag and the first female body are the same to enable a better connection when both parts are welded together. Suitably a polypropylene reservoir is combined with a polypropylene plug and a polyethylene reservoir is combined with a polyethylene plug. Such combinations are preferably fixed by means of welding wherein by means of a heat treatment the connection is achieved by inter-melting the surfaces of the reservoir and plug.The container is suitably a flexible bag. The first female member is positioned in an opening or the flexible bag. Preferably the material or the flexible bag and the first female body are the same to enable a better connection when both parts are welded together. Suitably a polypropylene container is combined with a polypropylene plug and a polyethylene container is combined with a polyethylene plug. Such combinations are preferably fixed by means of welding or by means of a heat treatment the connection is achieved by inter-melting the surfaces of the reservoir and plug.

The invention is also directed to a container as described above comprising an aqueous solution and wherein the cap is positioned relative to the second female member in the first position providing a fluid seal, preferably by means of a snap or clamping connection. This container is advantageous because the container closure will be closed by means of a snap or clamping connection thereby ensuring that when the bag is stored or transported no liquid will leak from the container.The invention is also directed to a container as described above including an aqueous solution and the cap is positioned relative to the second female member in the first position providing a fluid seal, preferably by means of a snap or clamping connection. This container is advantageous because the container closure will be closed by means of a snap or clamp connection connection ensuring that when the bag is stored or transported no liquid will leak from the container.

The invention is also directed to a container according to this invention, wherein into the second female member a suction tube of a pump is positioned as the external male member and wherein the cap is positioned axially away from the second female member to the second position such that a fluid connection results between the interior of the container and the suction tube of the pump. The pump may be a spray pump as described in US5732853 hereby incorporated by reference.The invention is also directed to a container according to this invention, into the second female member a suction tube or a pump is positioned as the external male member and the cap is positioned axially away from the second female member to the second position such that a fluid connection results between the interior of the container and the suction tube or the pump. The pump may be a spray pump as described in US5732853, incorporated by reference.

Figure 1 shows an exploded view of the three main parts of the container closure 1 according to the invention. The container closure of Figure 1 may be placed in a container. The orientation from the exterior of the container to the container runs upwards in Figure 1. Shown is a first female member 2 having a body provided with a first channel 3 along an axis 4. The interior of the channel 3 is the interior surface 7 of the first female member 2. Figure 1 also shows a second female member 5 having a body provided with a second coaxial channel 8 suited to receive an external male member (not shown) from the exterior of the container (not shown). The second female member 5 has an exterior surface 6, a tubular open end 11 facing the container and a radially outer side 17.Figure 1 shows an exploded view of the three main parts of the container closure 1 according to the invention. The container closure or Figure 1 may be placed in a container. The orientation from the exterior of the container to the container runs upwards in Figure 1. Shown is a first female member 2 having a body provided with a first channel 3 along an axis 4. The interior of the channel 3 is the interior surface 7 of the first female member 2. Figure 1 also shows a second female member 5 having a body provided with a second coaxial channel 8 suited to receive an external male member (not shown) from the exterior of the container (not shown). The second female member 5 has an exterior surface 6, a tubular open end 11 facing the container and a radially outer side 17.

Also shown is a cap 9 provided with a circular head 12 from which edge a rim 13 extends towards the second female member 5. The cap 9 has a pin 14 which extends from its centre co-axial towards the second female member 5. The cap 9 further is provided with a base ring 15 spaced from the circular head 12 towards the second female member 5. The base ring 15 has an opening 16 for passage of the second female member 5 and for passage of pin 14. The head 12 of the cap 9 is connected to the base ring 15 by a resilient memberAlso shown is a cap 9 provided with a circular head 12 from which edge a rim 13 extends towards the second female member 5. The cap 9 has a pin 14 which extends from its center co-axial towards the second female member 5. The cap 9 further is provided with a base ring 15 spaced from the circular head 12 towards the second female member 5. The base ring 15 has an opening 16 for passage of the second female member 5 and for passage of pin 14. The head 12 of the cap 9 is connected to the base ring 15 by a resilient member

10. Cap 9 as shown is one structural part.10. Cap 9 as shown is one structural part.

When assembling the container closure 1 it is preferred to first push the cap 9 onto the second female member 5 thereby creating a snap fitting and closing tubular open endWhen assembling the container closure 1 it is preferred to first push the cap 9 onto the second female member 5 creating a snap fitting and closing tubular open end

11. The thus assembled cap 9 and second female member 5 can be inserted into the first channel 7 wherein exterior surface 6 of second female member 5 and the interior surface 7 of the first female member 2 create a fluid seal. Figure 2 shows such an assembled container closure.11. The thus assembled cap 9 and second female member 5 can be inserted into the first channel 7 with exterior surface 6 or second female member 5 and the interior surface 7 or the first female member 2 create a fluid seal. Figure 2 shows such an assembled container closure.

Figure 2 shows the assembled container closure making use of the parts shown in Figure 1. Also shown is a spray pump 22 as disclosed in US5732853 having a suction tube 21 which is only partly inserted into second channel 8. The container closure as shown is in its first position wherein the cap 9 and the second female member 5 provide a fluid seal enclosing the interior of the container and the exterior of the container. The snap connection is achieved between the radially outer side 17 of the open end 11 of the second female member and the rim 13 of the cap 9 and between the radially inner side 22 of the open end 11 and the radially outer side 23 of pin 14.Figure 2 shows the assembled container closure making use of the parts shown in Figure 1. Also shown is a spray pump 22 as disclosed in US5732853 having a suction tube 21 which is only partly inserted into second channel 8. The container closure as shown is in its first position 9 and the second female member 5 provide a fluid seal enclosing the interior of the container and the exterior of the container. The snap connection is achieved between the radially outer side 17 or the open end 11 or the second female member and the rim 13 or the cap 9 and between the radially inner side 22 or the open end 11 and the radially outer side 23 or pin 14 .

In Figure 3 the suction tube 21, as the external male member, is fully inserted into the second channel 8. As a result of this insertion of suction tube 21 pin 14 and cap 9 is axially displaced in the direction of the container because suction tube 21 axially pushes pin 14 towards the container. The base ring 15 is fixed into position by assembly of the second female member 5 and cap 9 into the first channel 7. Because of this fixation of ring 15 resilient member 10 will try to force cap 9 back on its seat on second female member 5. As long as suction tube 21 is in the position shown in this Figure 2 no such displacement will occur. A flow path is created which runs via the interior of the suction tube 21, along an annular space between pin 14 and the interior of the second channel 8, a space between the circular head 12 and rim 13 and the end of the second female member 5 and the space between the cap 9 and the interior of the 7 of the first channel.In Figure 3 the suction tube 21, as the external male member, is fully inserted into the second channel 8. As a result of this insertion or suction tube 21 pin 14 and cap 9 is axially displaced in the direction of the container because suction tube 21 axially pushes pin 14 towards the container. The base ring 15 is fixed into position by assembly of the second female member 5 and cap 9 into the first channel 7. Because of this fixation of ring 15 resilient member 10 will try to force cap 9 back on its seat on second female member 5 As long as suction tube 21 is shown in the position in this Figure 2 no such displacement will occur. A flow path is created which runs through the interior of the suction tube 21, along an annular space between pin 14 and the interior of the second channel 8, a space between the circular head 12 and rim 13 and the end of the second female member 5 and the space between the cap 9 and the interior of the 7 or the first channel.

Figure 4 shows an embodiment wherein the first female member is provided with the resilient member at the side of the container which resiliently biases the cap from the second position to the third position. Figure 5 shows an exploded view of the three main parts of the container closure of Figure 4. The container closure of Figure 4 may be placed in a container. The orientation from the exterior of the container to the container runs upwards in Figure 4. Shown is a first female member 32 having a body provided with a first channel 33 along an axis 34. The interior of the channel 33 is the interior surface 37 of the first female member 32. Figure 4 also shows a second female member 35 having a body provided with a second co-axial channel 38 suited to receive an external male member (not shown) from the exterior of the container (not shown). The second female member 35 has an exterior surface 36, a tubular open end 41 facing the container and a radially outer side 37.Figure 4 shows an embodiment of the first female member provided with the resilient member at the side of the container which resiliently biases the cap from the second position to the third position. Figure 5 shows an exploded view of the three main parts of the container closure or Figure 4. The container closure of Figure 4 may be placed in a container. The orientation from the exterior of the container to the container runs upwards in Figure 4. Shown is a first female member 32 having a body provided with a first channel 33 along an axis 34. The interior of the channel 33 is the interior surface 37 of the first female member 32. Figure 4 also shows a second female member 35 having a body provided with a second co-axial channel 38 suited to receive an external male member (not shown) from the exterior of the container (not shown). The second female member 35 has an exterior surface 36, a tubular open end 41 facing the container and a radially outer side 37.

Also shown is a cap 39 provided with a circular head 42 from which edge a rim 43 extends towards the second female member 35. The cap 39 has a pin 44 which extends from its centre co-axial towards the second female member 35. Cap 39 as shown is one structural part. Cap 39 is further provided with a tubular body 45 extending from head 42 towards the container. Around body 45a spring 40 is placed which rests between head 42 and the tubular open end 41 of first female body 32.Also shown is a cap 39 provided with a circular head 42 from which edge a rim 43 extends towards the second female member 35. The cap 39 has a pin 44 which extends from its center co-axial towards the second female member 35. Cap 39 as shown is one structural part. Cap 39 is further provided with a tubular body 45 extending from head 42 towards the container. Around body 45a spring 40 is placed which rests between head 42 and the tubular open end 41 or first female body 32.

When assembling the container closure of Figure 4 it is preferred to first push the capWhen assembling the container closure or Figure 4 it is preferred to first push the cap

39 onto the second female member 35 thereby creating a snap fitting. The thus assembled cap 39 and second female member 35 can be inserted into the first channel 37 wherein exterior surface3 6 of second female member 35 and the interior surface 37 of the first female member 32 create a fluid seal.39 onto the second female member 35 creating a snap fitting. The thus assembled cap 39 and second female member 35 can be inserted into the first channel 37 with exterior surface3 6 or second female member 35 and the interior surface 37 or the first female member 32 create a fluid seal.

Claims

CONCLUSIESCONCLUSIONS

1. Recipiëntsluiting 1, geschikt voor gebruik als afsluitbare opening voor een recipiënt, een eerste vrouwelijk deel 2,32 omvattende dat is voorzien van een lichaam met een eerste kanaal 3,33 langs een as 4,34, waarbij het kanaal 3,33 in fluïdumverbinding kan staan met de binnenruimte van de recipiënt en met het uitwendige van de recipiënt, waarbij in het eerste kanaal 3,33 een tweede vrouwelijk deel (5,35 gepositioneerd is, waarbij het tweede vrouwelijke deel een lichaam omvat dat is voorzien van een tweede coaxiaal kanaal 8,38 dat het geschikt is om een extern mannelijk lichaam op te nemen vanuit het uitwendige van de recipiënt, en waarbij het lichaam van het tweede vrouwelijke deel een buitenoppervlak 6,36 omvat dat voorziet in een fluïdumafdichting met het inwendige oppervlak 7,37 van het eerste vrouwelijke deel 2,32, en waarbij in het eerste kanaal 3,33 een dop 9,39 gepositioneerd is ten opzichte van het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5,35 langs de zijde die gericht is naar de recipiënt, en waarbij de dop 9,39 axiaal kan bewegen ten opzichte van het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5,35, vanuit een eerste positie naar een tweede positie, en waarbij in de eerste positie de dop 9,39 en het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5,35 voorzien in een fluïdumafdichting, en in de tweede positie voorzien in een fluïdumverbinding tussen de binnenruimte van de recipiënt en het uitwendige van de recipiënt.A container closure 1, suitable for use as a closable opening for a container, comprising a first female part 2.32 which is provided with a body with a first channel 3.33 along an axis 4.34, the channel 3.33 in fluid communication can be with the interior of the container and with the exterior of the container, wherein in the first channel 3.33 a second female part (5.35 is positioned, the second female part comprising a body provided with a second coaxial channel 8,38 capable of receiving an external male body from the exterior of the container, and wherein the body of the second female part comprises an outer surface 6,36 which provides a fluid seal with the inner surface 7, 37 of the first female part 2.32, and wherein a cap 9.39 is positioned in the first channel 3.33 relative to the second female part 5.35 along the side facing the rec patient, and wherein the cap 9.39 can move axially with respect to the second female part 5.35, from a first position to a second position, and wherein in the first position the cap 9.39 and the second female part 5, 35 provide a fluid seal, and in the second position provide a fluid communication between the interior of the container and the exterior of the container.

2. Recipiëntsluiting volgens conclusie 1, waarbij de dop 9,39 in een axiale richting kan bewegen ten opzichte van het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5,35, en dit vanuit een eerste positie naar een tweede positie, en terug naar een derde positie, waarbij in de eerste positie de dop 9,39 en het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5,35 voorzien in een fluïdumafdichtende verbinding door middel van een klik- of klemverbinding, waarbij in de tweede positie de dop 9,39 axiaal verplaatst is ten opzichte van het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5,35 in de richting van de binnenruimte van de recipiënt, en waarbij in de derde positie de dop 9,39 rust op het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5,35 teneinde zodoende te voorzien in een fluïdumafdichting.A container closure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cap 9,39 can move in an axial direction with respect to the second female part 5,35, and this from a first position to a second position, and back to a third position, wherein the first position the cap 9,39 and the second female part 5,35 provide a fluid-sealing connection by means of a snap or clamp connection, wherein in the second position the cap 9,39 is axially displaced with respect to the second female part 5.35 in the direction of the interior space of the container, and wherein in the third position the cap 9.39 rests on the second female part 5.35 so as to provide a fluid seal.

3. Recipiëntsluiting volgens conclusie 2, waarbij de recipiëntsluiting bovendien is voorzien van een veerkrachtig deel 10,40 dat op veerkrachtige wijze de dop vanuit de tweede positie naar de derde positie dwingt.The container closure as claimed in claim 2, wherein the container closure is furthermore provided with a resilient part 10.40 which resiliently urges the cap from the second position to the third position.

4. Recipiëntsluiting volgens conclusie 2, waarbij het eerste vrouwelijke deel is voorzien van het veerkrachtige deel 30 langs de zijde van de recipiënt waardoor op veerkrachtige wijze de dop 9 van de tweede positie naar de derde positie wordt gedwongen.The container closure as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first female part is provided with the resilient part 30 along the side of the container, whereby the cap 9 is resiliently forced from the second position to the third position.

5. Recipiëntsluiting volgens conclusie 2, waarbij de dop 9 een cirkelvormige kop en een basisring 15 omvat die zich op een afstand bevindt van de cirkelvormige kop 12 in de richting van het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5, is voorzien van een opening 16 om het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5 door te laten, en waarbij de kop 12 van de dop 9 is verbonden met de basisring 15 door middel van een veerkrachtig deel 10.5. Container closure as claimed in claim 2, wherein the cap 9 comprises a circular head and a base ring 15 which is spaced from the circular head 12 in the direction of the second female part 5, is provided with an opening 16 around the second female part 5, and wherein the head 12 of the cap 9 is connected to the base ring 15 by means of a resilient part 10.

6. Recipiëntsluiting volgens conclusie 5, waarbij het veerkrachtige deel 10, de kop 12 van de dop, en de basisring 15 zijn vervaardigd in de vorm van een enkel structureel element,The container closure of claim 5, wherein the resilient member 10, the head 12 of the cap, and the base ring 15 are made in the form of a single structural element,

7. Recipiëntsluiting conclusie 5 of conclusie 6, waarbij de basisring 15 van de dop 9 in positie is bevestigd door middel van een assemblage van het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5, de dop 9, en het eerste vrouwelijke deel 2, op een zodanige wijze dat de basisring niet in de axiale richting kan bewegen ten opzichte van het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5.The container closure claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the base ring 15 of the cap 9 is fixed in position by an assembly of the second female part 5, the cap 9, and the first female part 2, in such a way that the base ring cannot move in the axial direction with respect to the second female part 5.

8. Recipiëntsluiting volgens één der conclusies 3 tot en met 7, waarbij het veerkrachtige deel 10 is vervaardigd uit polyoxymethyleen (POM), polyamide, of veerstaal.The container closure of any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein the resilient member 10 is made of polyoxymethylene (POM), polyamide, or spring steel.

9. Recipiëntsluiting volgens één der conclusies 2 tot en met 8, waarbij het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5 is voorzien van een open einde 11 dat is gericht naar de recipiënt, en waarbij de dop 9 een cirkelvormige kop 12 omvat en ten opzichte van de kant daarvan er zich een rand 13 uitstrekt in de richting van het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5, en waarbij de dop 9 is voorzien van een pen 14 die zich van het centrum ervan coaxiaal uitstrekt in de richting van en in het open einde 11 van het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5, en waarbij de eerste positie een klik- of klemverbinding is tussen de radiaal aan de buitenzijde gelegen zijde 17 van het open einde 11 van het tweede vrouwelijke deel en de rand 13 van de dop 9 en/of een klik- of klemverbinding tussen de radiaal aan de binnenzijde gelegen zijde 22 van het open einde 11 en de radiaal aan de buitenzijde gelegen zijde 23 van de pen 14, waarbij de tweede positie de positie is waarin de dop 9 axiaal verplaatst is ten opzichte van het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5 in de richting van de recipiënt, op een zodanige wijze dat er een stromingspad voor fluïdum gecreëerd is tussen het open einde 11 van het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5 en de dop 9, en waarbij in de derde positie de radiaal aan de buitenzijde gelegen zijde van de pen 14 van de dop 9 rust op de radiaal aan de binnenzijde gelegen zijde van het open einde 11 van het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5, teneinde de fluïdumafdichting te creëren.9. Container closure as claimed in any of the claims 2 to 8, wherein the second female part 5 is provided with an open end 11 which is directed towards the container, and wherein the cap 9 comprises a circular head 12 and with respect to the side thereof an edge 13 extending in the direction of the second female part 5, and wherein the cap 9 is provided with a pin 14 extending coaxially from its center in the direction of and into the open end 11 of the second female part 5, and wherein the first position is a snap or clamp connection between the radially outer side 17 of the open end 11 of the second female part and the edge 13 of the cap 9 and / or a snap or clamp connection between the radially inner side 22 of the open end 11 and radially outer side 23 of the pin 14, the second position being the position in which the cap 9 is axially displaced relative to the second female part 5 in the direction of the container, in such a way that a fluid flow path is created between the open end 11 of the second female part 5 and the cap 9, and in the third position the radially on the outside side of the pin 14 of the cap 9 rests on the radially inner side of the open end 11 of the second female part 5 to create the fluid seal.

10. Recipiëntsluiting volgens conclusie 9, waarbij de eerste positie een klik- of klemverbinding is tussen de radiaal aan de buitenzijde gelegen zijde 17 van het open einde 11 van het tweede vrouwelijke deel en de rand 13 van de dop 9, en een klik- of klemverbinding tussen de radiaal aan de binnenzijde gelegen zijde 22 van het open einde 11 en de radiaal aan de buitenzijde gelegen zijde 23 van de pen 14.10. Container closure as claimed in claim 9, wherein the first position is a snap or clamp connection between the radially outer side 17 of the open end 11 of the second female part and the edge 13 of the cap 9, and a snap or clamp connection between the radially inner side 22 of the open end 11 and the radially outer side 23 of the pin 14.

11. Recipiënt 18, een recipiëntsluiting 1 omvattende volgens één der conclusies 1 tot en metA container 18, comprising a container closure 1 according to any one of claims 1 to

10.10.

12. Recipiënt volgens conclusie 11, waarbij de recipiënt een flexibele zak 19 is, en waarbij het eerste vrouwelijke deel 2 is gepositioneerd in een opening 21 van de zak 19.12. Container according to claim 11, wherein the container is a flexible bag 19, and wherein the first female part 2 is positioned in an opening 21 of the bag 19.

13. Recipiënt volgens conclusie 12, waarbij de zak 19 en het eerste vrouwelijke deel 2 vervaardigd zijn uit polyethyleen.A container according to claim 12, wherein the bag 19 and the first female part 2 are made of polyethylene.

14. Recipiënt volgens één der conclusies 11 tot en met 13, een waterige oplossing omvattende, en waarbij de dop 9 ten opzichte van het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5 gepositioneerd is in de eerste positie waardoor een fluïdumafdichting wordt gecreëerd.A container according to any one of claims 11 to 13, comprising an aqueous solution, and wherein the cap 9 is positioned with respect to the second female part 5 in the first position thereby creating a fluid seal.

15. Recipiënt volgens conclusie 14, waarbij de dop 9 en het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5 een fluïdumdichte verbinding vormen door middel van een klik- of klemverbinding.15. Container according to claim 14, wherein the cap 9 and the second female part 5 form a fluid-tight connection by means of a snap or clamp connection.

16. Recipiënt volgens één der conclusies 11 tot en met 15, waarbij in het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5 een aanzuigbuis 21 van een pomp 22 is gepositioneerd als het externe mannelijke deel, en waarbij de dop axiaal van het tweede vrouwelijke deel 5A receptacle according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein in the second female part 5 a suction tube 21 of a pump 22 is positioned as the external male part, and wherein the cap is axially of the second female part 5

5 weg gepositioneerd is in de tweede positie zodat een fluïdumverbinding wordt gecreëerd tussen de inwendige ruimte van de recipiënt 18 en de aanzuigbuis 21 van de pomp 22.5 is positioned away in the second position such that a fluid connection is created between the interior of the receptacle 18 and the suction tube 21 of the pump 22.

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