US20130233444A1 - Dispensing System - Google Patents
Dispensing System Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20130233444A1 US20130233444A1 US13/824,968 US201113824968A US2013233444A1 US 20130233444 A1 US20130233444 A1 US 20130233444A1 US 201113824968 A US201113824968 A US 201113824968A US 2013233444 A1 US2013233444 A1 US 2013233444A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- cartridge
- cap
- container
- breaching
- base
- 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.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- 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
- B65D51/00—Closures not otherwise provided for
- B65D51/24—Closures not otherwise provided for combined or co-operating with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes
- B65D51/28—Closures not otherwise provided for combined or co-operating with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes with auxiliary containers for additional articles or materials
- B65D51/2807—Closures not otherwise provided for combined or co-operating with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes with auxiliary containers for additional articles or materials the closure presenting means for placing the additional articles or materials in contact with the main contents by acting on a part of the closure without removing the closure, e.g. by pushing down, pulling up, rotating or turning a part of the closure, or upon initial opening of the container
- B65D51/2814—Closures not otherwise provided for combined or co-operating with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes with auxiliary containers for additional articles or materials the closure presenting means for placing the additional articles or materials in contact with the main contents by acting on a part of the closure without removing the closure, e.g. by pushing down, pulling up, rotating or turning a part of the closure, or upon initial opening of the container the additional article or materials being released by piercing, cutting or tearing an element enclosing it
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- 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
- B65D51/00—Closures not otherwise provided for
- B65D51/24—Closures not otherwise provided for combined or co-operating with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes
- B65D51/28—Closures not otherwise provided for combined or co-operating with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes with auxiliary containers for additional articles or materials
- B65D51/2807—Closures not otherwise provided for combined or co-operating with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes with auxiliary containers for additional articles or materials the closure presenting means for placing the additional articles or materials in contact with the main contents by acting on a part of the closure without removing the closure, e.g. by pushing down, pulling up, rotating or turning a part of the closure, or upon initial opening of the container
- B65D51/2814—Closures not otherwise provided for combined or co-operating with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes with auxiliary containers for additional articles or materials the closure presenting means for placing the additional articles or materials in contact with the main contents by acting on a part of the closure without removing the closure, e.g. by pushing down, pulling up, rotating or turning a part of the closure, or upon initial opening of the container the additional article or materials being released by piercing, cutting or tearing an element enclosing it
- B65D51/2821—Closures not otherwise provided for combined or co-operating with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes with auxiliary containers for additional articles or materials the closure presenting means for placing the additional articles or materials in contact with the main contents by acting on a part of the closure without removing the closure, e.g. by pushing down, pulling up, rotating or turning a part of the closure, or upon initial opening of the container the additional article or materials being released by piercing, cutting or tearing an element enclosing it said element being a blister, a capsule or like sealed container
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- 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
- B65D2401/00—Tamper-indicating means
- B65D2401/50—Tamper-band co-operating with intermediate ring connected to the container
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to a dispensing system and particularly to a dispensing system for introducing a consumable or other item from a container closure into the container.
- the present invention seeks to overcome the problems with known delivery systems.
- a dispensing system for a container comprising a cap and a storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item and being attached or attachable to the cap, the cartridge comprising a breachable closure member and breaching means for breaching the closure member, in which the breaching means are contained in the cartridge and are activated upon rotation of the cap whereby to dispense the product into a container.
- a dispensing system for a container comprising a cap and a storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item and being attached or attachable to the cap, the cartridge comprising a breachable closure member and breaching means for breaching the closure member, the cartridge being collapsible and the breaching means being contained in the cartridge and activatable by collapse of the cartridge, in which rotation of the cap causes the cartridge to collapse whereby to dispense the product into a container.
- a dispensing system for a container comprising a cap and a collapsible storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item and being attached or attachable to the cap, the cartridge comprising a breachable closure member and breaching means for breaching the closure member, the breaching means being activatable by collapse of the cartridge, in which rotation of the cap causes the cartridge to collapse whereby to dispense the product into a container.
- a cartridge for a dispensing system comprising a body for containing a consumable or other item, at least part of the body is collapsible and the body is closable by a breachable closure member, in which in use collapse of the cartridge causes breaching of the closure to dispense the consumable or other item.
- a dispensing system for a container comprising a storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item and a base which is attachable to a container, the cartridge comprising an opening through which the consumable or other item is dispensed into the container in use, the opening being sealed by a laminar panel, the cartridge being welded to the base.
- the laminar panel may be welded to the base.
- a welding operation may therefore be used which welds the panel to the base.
- the panel may be welded to the cartridge opening. A “double welding” operation may therefore be used.
- the laminar panel may be used in either or both of the welds.
- the cartridge may comprise a welding flange.
- the flange may be formed surrounding the cartridge opening.
- the laminar panel may comprise foil.
- a single layer panel may be used or a multi-layer panel with different materials may be used.
- Welding may be achieved by induction sealing, for example inducting heat sealing.
- Other sealing methods, such as conduct, may be used.
- the system may further comprise an overcap.
- the overcap may be used to actuate the system and cause dispensing from the cartridge into a container.
- a further aspect provides a method of assembling a dispensing system for a container, comprising the steps of: providing a storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item, the cartridge comprising an opening through which the consumable or other item is dispensable into the container; providing a base which is attachable to a container; sealing the opening with a laminar panel; and welding the cartridge to the base.
- the opening may be sealed by welding of the panel.
- a cap may be provided and the method may further comprise the step of assembling the cartridge into the cap.
- the cartridge may be assembled into the cap before the cartridge is welded to the base.
- the welding steps may comprise induction welding, from example induction heat welding.
- a dispensing system for a container comprising a cap and a storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item and being attached or attachable to the cap, the cartridge comprising a breachable closure member and breaching means for breaching the closure member, in which the breaching means are contained in the cartridge and are activated upon rotation of the cap whereby to dispense the product into a container.
- the present invention may therefore provide a means for holding a component separate until the cap is rotated whereupon the cartridge is caused to release its contents. Because the breaching means is contained within the cartridge the breach of the closure member is made from the inside towards the outside.
- the consumable or other item may comprise, for example, a fluid such as a liquid or gel, or a solid such as powder or a tablet.
- a fluid such as a liquid or gel
- a solid such as powder or a tablet.
- applications for such a system including, for example, for beverages to add flavouring, colouring, dietary supplements and the like, for pharmaceutical products such as bleach concentrates, fertilisers and for other products in which components need to be mixed just before use.
- the system may be configured such that it is not possible to gain access to the container without rotating the cap. In other words, breach of the cartridge is not selective and will occur automatically in use.
- the cap may comprise an overcap, with the system further comprising a base which is attachable to a container.
- the cap may be rotatable with respect to the base to activate the breaching means. In this case the base will remain stationary on the container whilst the overcap is rotated.
- the base may be removable from the container.
- an initial rotation phase may cause turning only of an overcap and in doing so activate the breaching means; then at the end of the first rotation phase the overcap may become prevented from further rotation so that continued force causes turning of the base.
- the overcap and/or base may be provided with surface formations such as screwthread formations to engage with corresponding formations which provide for the required relative rotations.
- the base may include tamper evident means for indicating if it has been removed from the container; and the cap may include tamper evident means for indicating if it has been rotated, for example with respect to a base.
- the tamper evident means may comprise, for example, a tamper evident band.
- the cartridge may be collapsible and activation of the breaching means may be caused by collapse of the cartridge.
- the cap may have internal features such as cam profiles which press onto the cartridge as it is rotated.
- the cartridge may be thermoformed or blown from a plastics material such as polypropylene or polyethylene terephthalate.
- the cartridge may be formed from a barrier material to prevent ingress or egress of substances such as oxygen, water or carbon dioxide.
- a multilayer material may be used for this purpose.
- the cartridge may be shaped and formed to facilitate collapse, for example a corrugated structure may be used.
- the closure member may comprise a membrane, such as a laminar disc or pad.
- a membrane such as a laminar disc or pad.
- an aluminium foil disc may be used.
- the breaching means may comprise means for piercing, cutting, slitting, pushing or the like depending upon the form of the closure member.
- the breaching means comprises a rigid member such as a rigid spike. The breaching means may be placed into the cartridge at the time it is filled and sealed.
- the system will provide confirmation that an initial rotation phase is complete to alert a user that the cartridge has dispensed its cargo. This could be useful, for example, if after release of the cartridge contents they need to be mixed into the container contents before removal of the closure system.
- the breaching means may be activated by a cam arrangement provided on the cap.
- the cam arrangement may provide the means of collapsing the cartridge which in turn activates the breaching means.
- the present invention also provides the combination of a system as described herein together with a container.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dispensing system formed according to the present invention shown connected to a container;
- FIG. 2 is a side elevation of the system of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is an exploded side view of the system of FIGS. 1 and 2 ;
- FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the system of FIGS. 1 and 2 ;
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a storage cartridge forming part of the system of FIGS. 1 to 4 ;
- FIG. 6A is a section of the system of FIGS. 1 to 4 shown in an unopened position
- FIG. 6B is a further section of the system shown in FIG. 6A ;
- FIG. 6C is an exterior side elevation of the system shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B ;
- FIG. 7A is a section of the system of FIG. 6A to 6C shown following a first rotation phase
- FIG. 7B is a further section of the system of FIG. 7A ;
- FIG. 7C is an exterior view of the system of FIGS. 7A and 7B ;
- FIG. 8A is a section of the system of FIGS. 6 and 7 shown following a second rotation phase
- FIG. 8B is a further section of the system of FIG. 8A ;
- FIG. 9 is a side elevation of the container neck finish following removal of the system.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective section of the finish of FIG. 10 ;
- FIG. 11 is a perspective exploded view of a dispensing system formed according to an alternative aspect
- FIG. 12 is a section of the system of FIG. 11 shown assembled
- FIG. 13 is a perspective exploded view of a dispensing system formed according to an alternative embodiment.
- FIG. 14 is a perspective exploded view of a dispensing system formed according to a further embodiment.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 there is shown a dispensing system generally indicated 10 shown connected to a container neck 15 .
- the system 10 comprises an overcap 20 and a base 25 which are described in more detail below.
- the system 10 is shown to comprise the overcap 20 , the base 25 , a storage cartridge 30 , a cutting member 35 and a sealing membrane 40 (the membrane 40 is not shown in FIG. 4 ).
- the overcap 20 comprises a disc shape top plate 45 and a generally cylindrical side skirt 50 which depends from the periphery of the plate 45 .
- the cap has an annular tamper-evident band 55 which is connected to the skirt 50 by a plurality of frangible bridges 60 .
- the interior of the skirt 50 is provided with screw thread formations 65 and the top plate 45 is provided with a depending inner annular sealing skirt 70 .
- the top plate 45 is further provided with a generally cylindrical annular cam member 75 which is inclined at its free end.
- the cartridge 30 which is shown also in FIG. 5 , is generally rigid cone-shape body with an annular base 31 defining an open end and a frustoconical roof 32 which is inclined radially inwardly and formed as a series of concentric steps 33 to provide a corrugated structure which is collapsible.
- annular channel 34 is provided at the centre of the roof 32 .
- the channel 34 is dimensioned to receive the cam member 75 and accordingly is inclined as shown best in FIG. 6A .
- the cartridge 30 is fitted into the overcap as shown in FIG. 6A so that the cam member 75 fits into the channel 34 .
- the cutting member 35 comprises an annular cutting band 36 with a plurality of cutting teeth 37 at one end. At the other end of the band 36 three spokes 38 project and support a central hub 39 which includes an annular groove 39 a. In use the cutting member 35 is received in the cartridge 30 so that the hub 39 engages in the roof 32 within the channel 34 where it is clipped into position by engagement of the channel bead 34 a into the hub groove 39 a as shown best in FIG. 6A .
- the sealing disc 40 comprises a laminar disc of aluminium foil dimensioned to fit over the open end of the cartridge band 31 .
- the cartridge is prepared by inserting the cutting member 35 and filling it with product before sealing with the disc 40 .
- the base 25 comprises a generally cylindrical main section 26 the interior of which is provided with an internal screw thread 27 .
- an annular tamper evident band is provided and is connected to the free end by a plurality of frangible bridges 27 a.
- the interior of the band 27 is provided with a plurality of ridges 27 b which in use engage under a locking bead 16 on the neck finish.
- a shoulder 26 a projects radially inwardly.
- a generally cylindrical engagement body 28 projects from the shoulder 26 a and carries external screw thread formations 28 a which engage with the internal screw thread formations 65 on the overcap.
- the body 28 is dimensioned to fit between the sealing annulus 70 and the side wall 50 in use as best shown in FIG. 6A .
- the shoulder 26 a terminates with a downwardly depending cartridge recess 29 which includes a radially inwardly directed step 29 a and a terminal mouth portion 29 b which depends from the step 29 a.
- the filled and sealed cartridge 30 is assembled into the overcap 20 and then assembled onto the base 25 as shown in FIG. 6A .
- the cartridge fits into the recess 29 and the free end of the band 31 (which is covered by the membrane 40 ) rests on the step 29 a.
- the membrane 40 is welded to the step 29 a and this helps prevent rotation of the cartridge in use.
- the assembled system 10 is fitted to the container neck 15 as shown in FIG. 6A so that the neck finish is received between the base skirt 26 and the recess 29 .
- the section 28 also comprises a ratchet tooth 28 b which engages with a corresponding ratchet tooth on the overcap to stop the overcap being rotated completely off the base.
- the overcap 20 In use, the overcap 20 is turned and begins to rise up the base 25 .
- the tamper evident band 55 cannot rise axially because it is held firmly on the base. Accordingly the frangible bridges 60 break and the band 55 is released as shown in FIG. 7A .
- the overcap 20 turns the cam member 75 starts to travel through the channel 34 so that the longer sections of the cam start to pass through shallower sections of the channel 34 . This results in compression of the roof 32 so that it collapses towards the membrane 40 .
- the contents of the container which now includes the contents of the cartridge, can be dispensed.
- the container can be reclosed by the cap/base if required.
- the cap is locked in its raised position relative to the base and cannot be screwed back down by virtue of the ratchets.
- the system comprises a base 125 , an inverted, generally cup-shape storage cartridge 130 and a laminar sealing panel 140 .
- the cartridge 130 is very similar to the cartridge 30 described in relation to FIGS. 1 to 10 and the annular base 131 which defines the open end terminates with an annular welding flange 131 a which projects orthogonally from the free end of the base 131 .
- the cartridge 130 is filled with product and then the open end of the base 131 is sealed by welding the panel 140 to the flange 131 a.
- the filled cartridge is fitted into the base so that the cartridge rests on the base, with the flange 131 a seated on the step 129 a .
- the step 129 a is welded to the pane 140 . This results in a double welding which seals the mouth portion 129 b.
- FIG. 13 there is shown a dispensing system 210 formed according to an alternative embodiment.
- the system 210 is very similar to the system 110 shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 except than an overcap 220 is provided.
- Assembly of the system 210 is as follows.
- the cartridge 230 is filled with product and then the open end of the cartridge 230 is sealed by welding the laminar panel 240 to the welding flange 231 a.
- the filled cartridge is then inserted into the overcap 220 and this subassembly is fitted onto the base 225 .
- the base 225 is then welded to the cartridge 230 by heat induction sealing of the base to the panel 240 on the opposite side of the panel to the flange 231 a.
- the system 210 can then be applied to a bottleneck 215 ready for use.
- FIG. 14 there is shown a dispensing system 310 formed according to an alternative embodiment.
- the system 310 is very similar to the system 210 in FIG. 13 except than an internal cutting member 335 is provided for the cartridge 330 .
- Assembly of the system 310 is in some embodiments the same as that for the system 210 .
- the order of assembly of the parts is different. For example filling of the cartridge may occur after the panel 340 is applied by filling through the opposite end or the cap 320 may be applied after the cartridge 330 has been welded to the base 325 .
- an internal cutting member is not provided some other mechanism for breaching the panel 240 to allow product to be dispensed from the cartridge 230 may be provided.
- an external breaching means may be provided by the base 325 or collapse of the cartridge may be configured to cause bursting of the panel.
Abstract
A dispensing system for a container, the system comprising a cap and a storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item, the cartridge being attached or attachable to the cap, the cartridge comprising a breachable closure member and breaching means for breaching the closure member, in which the breaching means are contained in the cartridge and are activated upon rotation of the cap whereby to dispense the product into a container.
Description
- The present invention relates generally to a dispensing system and particularly to a dispensing system for introducing a consumable or other item from a container closure into the container.
- There are a variety of circumstances in which it may be necessary and/or preferable for components of a product to be kept separate until the point of use. For example, certain additives may have only a limited period of efficacy once they are introduced into a base. In other situations it may be preferable for more aesthetic reasons, for example if the additive introduces colour and/or flavour to a beverage.
- Various solutions have been proposed for the introduction of a substance from a closure into a container. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,337,921, U.S. Pat. No. 7,178,683, WO2006/123946 and EP1611024.
- The present invention seeks to overcome the problems with known delivery systems.
- According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a dispensing system for a container, the system comprising a cap and a storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item and being attached or attachable to the cap, the cartridge comprising a breachable closure member and breaching means for breaching the closure member, in which the breaching means are contained in the cartridge and are activated upon rotation of the cap whereby to dispense the product into a container.
- According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a dispensing system for a container, the system comprising a cap and a storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item and being attached or attachable to the cap, the cartridge comprising a breachable closure member and breaching means for breaching the closure member, the cartridge being collapsible and the breaching means being contained in the cartridge and activatable by collapse of the cartridge, in which rotation of the cap causes the cartridge to collapse whereby to dispense the product into a container.
- According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a dispensing system for a container, the system comprising a cap and a collapsible storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item and being attached or attachable to the cap, the cartridge comprising a breachable closure member and breaching means for breaching the closure member, the breaching means being activatable by collapse of the cartridge, in which rotation of the cap causes the cartridge to collapse whereby to dispense the product into a container.
- According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a cartridge for a dispensing system, the cartridge comprising a body for containing a consumable or other item, at least part of the body is collapsible and the body is closable by a breachable closure member, in which in use collapse of the cartridge causes breaching of the closure to dispense the consumable or other item.
- According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a dispensing system for a container, the system comprising a storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item and a base which is attachable to a container, the cartridge comprising an opening through which the consumable or other item is dispensed into the container in use, the opening being sealed by a laminar panel, the cartridge being welded to the base.
- By welding the cartridge to the base a firm connection and a seal can be established. This can be used to prevent product in an associated container from passing between the base and the cartridge.
- The laminar panel may be welded to the base. A welding operation may therefore be used which welds the panel to the base.
- The panel may be welded to the cartridge opening. A “double welding” operation may therefore be used. The laminar panel may be used in either or both of the welds.
- The cartridge may comprise a welding flange. The flange may be formed surrounding the cartridge opening.
- The laminar panel may comprise foil. A single layer panel may be used or a multi-layer panel with different materials may be used.
- Welding may be achieved by induction sealing, for example inducting heat sealing. Other sealing methods, such as conduct, may be used.
- The system may further comprise an overcap. The overcap may be used to actuate the system and cause dispensing from the cartridge into a container.
- A further aspect provides a method of assembling a dispensing system for a container, comprising the steps of: providing a storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item, the cartridge comprising an opening through which the consumable or other item is dispensable into the container; providing a base which is attachable to a container; sealing the opening with a laminar panel; and welding the cartridge to the base.
- The opening may be sealed by welding of the panel.
- A cap may be provided and the method may further comprise the step of assembling the cartridge into the cap. The cartridge may be assembled into the cap before the cartridge is welded to the base.
- The welding steps may comprise induction welding, from example induction heat welding.
- According to a further aspect there is provided a dispensing system for a container, the system comprising a cap and a storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item and being attached or attachable to the cap, the cartridge comprising a breachable closure member and breaching means for breaching the closure member, in which the breaching means are contained in the cartridge and are activated upon rotation of the cap whereby to dispense the product into a container.
- The present invention may therefore provide a means for holding a component separate until the cap is rotated whereupon the cartridge is caused to release its contents. Because the breaching means is contained within the cartridge the breach of the closure member is made from the inside towards the outside.
- The consumable or other item may comprise, for example, a fluid such as a liquid or gel, or a solid such as powder or a tablet. There is a wide range of applications for such a system including, for example, for beverages to add flavouring, colouring, dietary supplements and the like, for pharmaceutical products such as bleach concentrates, fertilisers and for other products in which components need to be mixed just before use.
- The system may be configured such that it is not possible to gain access to the container without rotating the cap. In other words, breach of the cartridge is not selective and will occur automatically in use.
- The cap may comprise an overcap, with the system further comprising a base which is attachable to a container. The cap may be rotatable with respect to the base to activate the breaching means. In this case the base will remain stationary on the container whilst the overcap is rotated.
- The base may be removable from the container. For example, an initial rotation phase may cause turning only of an overcap and in doing so activate the breaching means; then at the end of the first rotation phase the overcap may become prevented from further rotation so that continued force causes turning of the base. Accordingly the overcap and/or base may be provided with surface formations such as screwthread formations to engage with corresponding formations which provide for the required relative rotations.
- The base may include tamper evident means for indicating if it has been removed from the container; and the cap may include tamper evident means for indicating if it has been rotated, for example with respect to a base. The tamper evident means may comprise, for example, a tamper evident band.
- The cartridge may be collapsible and activation of the breaching means may be caused by collapse of the cartridge. The cap may have internal features such as cam profiles which press onto the cartridge as it is rotated.
- The cartridge may be thermoformed or blown from a plastics material such as polypropylene or polyethylene terephthalate. In some embodiments the cartridge may be formed from a barrier material to prevent ingress or egress of substances such as oxygen, water or carbon dioxide. A multilayer material may be used for this purpose. The cartridge may be shaped and formed to facilitate collapse, for example a corrugated structure may be used.
- The closure member may comprise a membrane, such as a laminar disc or pad. For example, an aluminium foil disc may be used.
- The breaching means may comprise means for piercing, cutting, slitting, pushing or the like depending upon the form of the closure member. In some embodiments the breaching means comprises a rigid member such as a rigid spike. The breaching means may be placed into the cartridge at the time it is filled and sealed.
- In some embodiments the system will provide confirmation that an initial rotation phase is complete to alert a user that the cartridge has dispensed its cargo. This could be useful, for example, if after release of the cartridge contents they need to be mixed into the container contents before removal of the closure system.
- The breaching means may be activated by a cam arrangement provided on the cap. For example, the cam arrangement may provide the means of collapsing the cartridge which in turn activates the breaching means.
- The present invention also provides the combination of a system as described herein together with a container.
- Different features, embodiments and aspects of the present invention may be used together and/or separately. For example the method of the present invention may be effected upon a dispensing system of the present invention.
- The present invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dispensing system formed according to the present invention shown connected to a container; -
FIG. 2 is a side elevation of the system ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is an exploded side view of the system ofFIGS. 1 and 2 ; -
FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the system ofFIGS. 1 and 2 ; -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a storage cartridge forming part of the system ofFIGS. 1 to 4 ; -
FIG. 6A is a section of the system ofFIGS. 1 to 4 shown in an unopened position; -
FIG. 6B is a further section of the system shown inFIG. 6A ; -
FIG. 6C is an exterior side elevation of the system shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B ; -
FIG. 7A is a section of the system ofFIG. 6A to 6C shown following a first rotation phase; -
FIG. 7B is a further section of the system ofFIG. 7A ; -
FIG. 7C is an exterior view of the system ofFIGS. 7A and 7B ; -
FIG. 8A is a section of the system ofFIGS. 6 and 7 shown following a second rotation phase; -
FIG. 8B is a further section of the system ofFIG. 8A ; -
FIG. 9 is a side elevation of the container neck finish following removal of the system; -
FIG. 10 is a perspective section of the finish ofFIG. 10 ; -
FIG. 11 is a perspective exploded view of a dispensing system formed according to an alternative aspect; -
FIG. 12 is a section of the system ofFIG. 11 shown assembled; -
FIG. 13 is a perspective exploded view of a dispensing system formed according to an alternative embodiment; and -
FIG. 14 is a perspective exploded view of a dispensing system formed according to a further embodiment. - Referring first to
FIGS. 1 and 2 there is shown a dispensing system generally indicated 10 shown connected to acontainer neck 15. Thesystem 10 comprises anovercap 20 and a base 25 which are described in more detail below. - Referring now also to
FIGS. 3 and 4 thesystem 10 is shown to comprise theovercap 20, thebase 25, astorage cartridge 30, a cuttingmember 35 and a sealing membrane 40 (themembrane 40 is not shown inFIG. 4 ). - Referring now also to
FIGS. 6A to 6C , in which thesystem 10 is also shown assembled onto thecontainer neck 15, theovercap 20 comprises a disc shapetop plate 45 and a generallycylindrical side skirt 50 which depends from the periphery of theplate 45. At the end of the skirt opposite theplate 45 the cap has an annular tamper-evident band 55 which is connected to theskirt 50 by a plurality offrangible bridges 60. - The interior of the
skirt 50 is provided withscrew thread formations 65 and thetop plate 45 is provided with a depending innerannular sealing skirt 70. Thetop plate 45 is further provided with a generally cylindricalannular cam member 75 which is inclined at its free end. - The
cartridge 30, which is shown also inFIG. 5 , is generally rigid cone-shape body with anannular base 31 defining an open end and afrustoconical roof 32 which is inclined radially inwardly and formed as a series ofconcentric steps 33 to provide a corrugated structure which is collapsible. - At the centre of the
roof 32 anannular channel 34 is provided. Thechannel 34 is dimensioned to receive thecam member 75 and accordingly is inclined as shown best inFIG. 6A . In use thecartridge 30 is fitted into the overcap as shown inFIG. 6A so that thecam member 75 fits into thechannel 34. - The cutting
member 35 comprises anannular cutting band 36 with a plurality of cuttingteeth 37 at one end. At the other end of theband 36 threespokes 38 project and support acentral hub 39 which includes anannular groove 39 a. In use the cuttingmember 35 is received in thecartridge 30 so that thehub 39 engages in theroof 32 within thechannel 34 where it is clipped into position by engagement of thechannel bead 34 a into thehub groove 39 a as shown best inFIG. 6A . - The
sealing disc 40 comprises a laminar disc of aluminium foil dimensioned to fit over the open end of thecartridge band 31. In use the cartridge is prepared by inserting the cuttingmember 35 and filling it with product before sealing with thedisc 40. - The
base 25 comprises a generally cylindricalmain section 26 the interior of which is provided with aninternal screw thread 27. At the free end of thesection 26 an annular tamper evident band is provided and is connected to the free end by a plurality offrangible bridges 27 a. The interior of theband 27 is provided with a plurality ofridges 27 b which in use engage under a lockingbead 16 on the neck finish. At the other end of thesection 26 ashoulder 26 a projects radially inwardly. A generallycylindrical engagement body 28 projects from theshoulder 26 a and carries externalscrew thread formations 28 a which engage with the internalscrew thread formations 65 on the overcap. Thebody 28 is dimensioned to fit between the sealingannulus 70 and theside wall 50 in use as best shown inFIG. 6A . - The
shoulder 26 a terminates with a downwardly dependingcartridge recess 29 which includes a radially inwardly directedstep 29 a and aterminal mouth portion 29 b which depends from thestep 29 a. - In use, the filled and sealed
cartridge 30 is assembled into theovercap 20 and then assembled onto the base 25 as shown inFIG. 6A . The cartridge fits into therecess 29 and the free end of the band 31 (which is covered by the membrane 40) rests on thestep 29 a. Themembrane 40 is welded to thestep 29 a and this helps prevent rotation of the cartridge in use. - The assembled
system 10 is fitted to thecontainer neck 15 as shown inFIG. 6A so that the neck finish is received between thebase skirt 26 and therecess 29. - The
section 28 also comprises aratchet tooth 28 b which engages with a corresponding ratchet tooth on the overcap to stop the overcap being rotated completely off the base. - In use, the
overcap 20 is turned and begins to rise up thebase 25. The tamperevident band 55 cannot rise axially because it is held firmly on the base. Accordingly thefrangible bridges 60 break and theband 55 is released as shown inFIG. 7A . As theovercap 20 turns thecam member 75 starts to travel through thechannel 34 so that the longer sections of the cam start to pass through shallower sections of thechannel 34. This results in compression of theroof 32 so that it collapses towards themembrane 40. - As the
roof 32 collapses it carries the piercingmember 35 with it and pushes the cuttingband 36 into and then through themembrane 40. This breaches themembrane 40 an releases the contents of thecartridge 30 which pass through themouth 29 b and into the container. At this point the ratchet prevents further rotation of the overcap with respect to the base. - Continued turning now starts to turn the
base 25 relative to the neck fitting as shown inFIGS. 8A and 8B . As part of this movement the tamperevident band 27 breaks away from theskirt 26. - Continued rotation of the cap/base results in its release from the neck with the exception of the tamper
evident bands FIGS. 9 and 10 . - The contents of the container, which now includes the contents of the cartridge, can be dispensed. The container can be reclosed by the cap/base if required. The cap is locked in its raised position relative to the base and cannot be screwed back down by virtue of the ratchets.
- Referring now to
FIGS. 11 and 12 there is shown a dispensing system generally indicated 110. The system comprises abase 125, an inverted, generally cup-shape storage cartridge 130 and alaminar sealing panel 140. - The
cartridge 130 is very similar to thecartridge 30 described in relation toFIGS. 1 to 10 and theannular base 131 which defines the open end terminates with anannular welding flange 131 a which projects orthogonally from the free end of thebase 131. - In order to assemble the
system 110 thecartridge 130 is filled with product and then the open end of thebase 131 is sealed by welding thepanel 140 to theflange 131 a. - Subsequently, and as shown in
FIG. 12 , the filled cartridge is fitted into the base so that the cartridge rests on the base, with theflange 131 a seated on thestep 129 a. Subsequently, thestep 129 a is welded to thepane 140. This results in a double welding which seals themouth portion 129 b. - Referring now to
FIG. 13 there is shown adispensing system 210 formed according to an alternative embodiment. Thesystem 210 is very similar to thesystem 110 shown inFIGS. 11 and 12 except than anovercap 220 is provided. - Assembly of the
system 210 is as follows. Thecartridge 230 is filled with product and then the open end of thecartridge 230 is sealed by welding thelaminar panel 240 to thewelding flange 231 a. The filled cartridge is then inserted into theovercap 220 and this subassembly is fitted onto thebase 225. Thebase 225 is then welded to thecartridge 230 by heat induction sealing of the base to thepanel 240 on the opposite side of the panel to theflange 231 a. Thesystem 210 can then be applied to abottleneck 215 ready for use. - Referring now to
FIG. 14 there is shown adispensing system 310 formed according to an alternative embodiment. Thesystem 310 is very similar to thesystem 210 inFIG. 13 except than aninternal cutting member 335 is provided for thecartridge 330. - Assembly of the
system 310 is in some embodiments the same as that for thesystem 210. In alternative embodiments the order of assembly of the parts is different. For example filling of the cartridge may occur after thepanel 340 is applied by filling through the opposite end or thecap 320 may be applied after thecartridge 330 has been welded to thebase 325. - In embodiments where an internal cutting member is not provided some other mechanism for breaching the
panel 240 to allow product to be dispensed from thecartridge 230 may be provided. For example an external breaching means may be provided by the base 325 or collapse of the cartridge may be configured to cause bursting of the panel.
Claims (21)
1-43. (canceled)
44. A dispensing system for a container, the system comprising a cap and a storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item, the cartridge being attached or attachable to the cap, the cartridge comprising a breachable closure member and breaching means for breaching the closure member, in which the breaching means are contained in the cartridge and are activated upon rotation of the cap whereby to dispense the consumable or other item into a container.
45. The system as claimed in claim 44 , in which the cap comprises an overcap and the system further comprises a base which is attachable to a container.
46. The system as claimed in claim 44 , in which the cap is rotatable with respect to the base to activate the breaching means.
47. The system as claimed in claim 44 , in which the base is removable from the container.
48. The system as claimed in claim 44 , in which the cartridge is collapsible.
49. The system as claimed in claim 48 , in which the breaching means are activated by collapse of the cartridge.
50. The system as claimed in claim 44 , in which the closure member comprises a membrane.
51. The system as claimed in claim 44 , in which the breaching means comprise piercing means.
52. The system as claimed in claim 44 , in which the cap comprises a cam arrangement to activate the breaching means.
53. The system as claimed in claim 45 , in which the cartridge comprises an opening through which the consumable or other item is dispensed into the container in use, the opening being sealed by a laminar panel, and the cartridge being welded to the base.
54. A dispensing system for a container, the system comprising a cap and a collapsible storage cartridge for containing a consumable or other item, the cartridge being attached or attachable to the cap, the cartridge comprising a breachable closure member and breaching means for breaching the closure member, the breaching means being activatable by collapse of the cartridge, in which rotation of the cap causes the cartridge to collapse whereby to dispense the consumable or other item into a container.
55. A cartridge for a dispensing system, the cartridge comprising a body for containing a consumable or other item, at least part of the body being collapsible and the body being closable by a breachable closure member, in which, in use, collapse of the cartridge causes breaching of the closure to dispense the consumable or other item.
56. The cartridge as claimed in claim 55 , in which the cartridge is generally cone-shaped.
57. The cartridge as claimed in claim 55 , in which at least part of the cartridge is corrugated.
58. The cartridge as claimed in claim 55 , in which the cartridge comprises a roof and a base.
59. The cartridge as claimed in claim 58 , in which the roof is generally frustoconical.
60. The cartridge as claimed in claim 58 , in which the roof comprises a series of concentric steps.
61. The cartridge as claimed in claim 55 , in which the cartridge comprises a channel for receiving a cam member.
62. The cartridge as claimed in claim 61 , in which the channel is annular.
63. The cartridge as claimed in claim 61 , in which the channel is helical.
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB1100615.2A GB2482211B (en) | 2011-01-14 | 2011-01-14 | A dispensing system |
GB1100615.2 | 2011-01-14 | ||
GB1108657.6 | 2011-05-23 | ||
GBGB1108657.6A GB201108657D0 (en) | 2011-05-23 | 2011-05-23 | A dispensing system |
PCT/GB2011/001633 WO2012095617A1 (en) | 2011-01-14 | 2011-11-21 | A dispensing system |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20130233444A1 true US20130233444A1 (en) | 2013-09-12 |
Family
ID=45476530
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/824,968 Abandoned US20130233444A1 (en) | 2011-01-14 | 2011-11-21 | Dispensing System |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20130233444A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2663511B1 (en) |
MX (1) | MX2013008136A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2012095617A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2016124683A1 (en) * | 2015-02-04 | 2016-08-11 | Alpla Werke Alwin Lehner Gmbh & Co. Kg | Pouring-out element |
US11235920B2 (en) | 2018-06-08 | 2022-02-01 | Pepsico, Inc. | Beverage ingredient pod |
US11427389B2 (en) * | 2018-07-25 | 2022-08-30 | Ivan CHIN | Compartment for preparation as bottle cap of drinking water |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP3309089A3 (en) * | 2016-10-12 | 2018-06-20 | Guizhou Green Tea Technology Development Co. Ltd. | Bottle for cold-brewed tea |
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US3548562A (en) * | 1968-06-24 | 1970-12-22 | Gilbert Schwartzman | Method of producing a mixing package employing two separate containers |
WO1999062776A1 (en) * | 1998-06-02 | 1999-12-09 | Crown Cork & Seal Technologies Corporation | Closure with perforating means and pouring nozzle |
US6165523A (en) * | 1999-04-26 | 2000-12-26 | Story; Douglas | Injector bottle cap assembly |
US6305576B1 (en) * | 2000-01-19 | 2001-10-23 | Nalge Nunc International Corporation | Cartridge for aseptically holding and dispensing a fluid material, and a container and method for aseptically holding and mixing the fluid material |
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JP5356407B2 (en) | 2008-01-12 | 2013-12-04 | ベルキャップ スウィツァーランド,アーゲー | Closure plug for quantitative addition of individual liquid substances |
RU2506212C2 (en) | 2008-02-14 | 2014-02-10 | Белкап Свитцерлэнд Аг | Filled closure with push button for draining |
-
2011
- 2011-11-21 US US13/824,968 patent/US20130233444A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2011-11-21 WO PCT/GB2011/001633 patent/WO2012095617A1/en active Application Filing
- 2011-11-21 MX MX2013008136A patent/MX2013008136A/en active IP Right Grant
- 2011-11-21 EP EP11807961.5A patent/EP2663511B1/en active Active
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WO1999062776A1 (en) * | 1998-06-02 | 1999-12-09 | Crown Cork & Seal Technologies Corporation | Closure with perforating means and pouring nozzle |
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WO2016124683A1 (en) * | 2015-02-04 | 2016-08-11 | Alpla Werke Alwin Lehner Gmbh & Co. Kg | Pouring-out element |
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US11235920B2 (en) | 2018-06-08 | 2022-02-01 | Pepsico, Inc. | Beverage ingredient pod |
US11427389B2 (en) * | 2018-07-25 | 2022-08-30 | Ivan CHIN | Compartment for preparation as bottle cap of drinking water |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
MX2013008136A (en) | 2013-11-20 |
EP2663511B1 (en) | 2015-03-18 |
EP2663511A1 (en) | 2013-11-20 |
WO2012095617A1 (en) | 2012-07-19 |
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Legal Events
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: OBRIST CLOSURES SWITZERLAND GMBH, SWITZERLAND Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:GUGLIELMINI, BERNARD;ROGNARD, JEAN-YVES;SIGNING DATES FROM 20130318 TO 20130514;REEL/FRAME:030527/0268 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |