EP0975526B1 - Dispensing cap with improved tightness - Google Patents

Dispensing cap with improved tightness Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0975526B1
EP0975526B1 EP97938959A EP97938959A EP0975526B1 EP 0975526 B1 EP0975526 B1 EP 0975526B1 EP 97938959 A EP97938959 A EP 97938959A EP 97938959 A EP97938959 A EP 97938959A EP 0975526 B1 EP0975526 B1 EP 0975526B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
cap according
lid
capsule
rigid
pip
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.)
Expired - Lifetime
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EP97938959A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0975526A1 (en
Inventor
Gilles Baudin
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LOreal SA
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LOreal SA
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Publication date
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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
    • B65D47/00—Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
    • B65D47/04—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps
    • B65D47/06—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages
    • B65D47/08—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages having articulated or hinged closures
    • B65D47/0804—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages having articulated or hinged closures integrally formed with the base element provided with the spout or discharge passage
    • B65D47/0809—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages having articulated or hinged closures integrally formed with the base element provided with the spout or discharge passage and elastically biased towards both the open and the closed positions
    • B65D47/0814—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages having articulated or hinged closures integrally formed with the base element provided with the spout or discharge passage and elastically biased towards both the open and the closed positions by at least three hinge sections, at least one having a length different from the others

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a dispensing capsule intended for equip a tank containing a fluid to be dispensed, as well as a distribution assembly equipped with this capsule. It is equipped with a system closure, which can be opened for product distribution and closed for conservation.
  • Tanks with such a capsule are commonly used in different areas, for the storage and distribution of liquid products, for example in the cosmetic, food, household, pharmaceutical or parapharmaceutical. These products are, in particular, shampoos, antiseptics, household cleaners or products for the dishes. Thanks to the use of such a capsule, on the one hand, the flow of the product during transport and storage, and on the other hand, protects the product from dirt from the outside. On the other hand, with such a capsule, the user can easily distribute, in a controlled manner, the product contained in the tank.
  • the present invention relates to a capsule comprising a product dispensing orifice and a pivoting cover, the orifice closure system consisting of a pin carried by the cover, intended to close this opening.
  • the pin introduced into the dispensing orifice must satisfy several functions; it must guarantee a good seal; the opening force must be reasonable, and when opening, there should be no noise swabbing. These qualities must be ensured throughout the use of the product.
  • dimensional adjustment is very delicate, because the tolerances must remain below 0.05 mm, all the more since additional deformations are likely to occur during demolding.
  • this pin no longer enters friction in the orifice and, by therefore, product leaks may occur.
  • a dispensing capsule of the kind mentioned above is described, for example, in document FR-A-2 662 144.
  • This document describes a dispensing capsule comprising a dispensing orifice and a cover swivel provided with a hollow pin, intended to plug the dispensing orifice storage position, this pin being in the form of a skirt cylindrical.
  • the dispensing orifice is provided in a flat portion, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the capsule, this portion being made of thermoelastic rubber.
  • This capsule of the prior art has the disadvantage that, when close the cover, a relatively large effort is required to engage the pin in the dispensing orifice. Indeed, during the operation of closure, the pin is in contact with the edge of the orifice and, before engaging in the hole, pushes back said rubber portion.
  • the capsule according to US-A-5 169 035 allows to obtain a blockage watertight from the dispensing orifice by the pin, it has the disadvantages following: on the one hand, the elastomer part must have a thickness important to be able to maintain it in the opening of the capsule; - on the other hand, the choice of elastomers which can be used for the production of the part ring finger is limited. Indeed, with a view to flexible and waterproof engagement Once there is spike in the dispensing orifice, it would be desirable to use so-called "soft" elastomers (that is to say elastomers whose hardness is less than about 60 Shore A).
  • this material must have a hardness greater than 60 Shore A, which is detrimental to operation flexible and to the desired sealing of the capsule. Also, with such a material, dimensional and positioning tolerances of the pin relative to the orifice distribution may be less well caught. Finally, the assembly of the annular piece in the hole from the inside of the capsule is relatively complicated and requires special appropriate tools.
  • the present invention firstly relates to a distribution capsule, having flexible operation when it is opened or closed, in good sealing conditions and the cost price of which is competitive.
  • a second object of the invention consists of a distribution capsule whose adjustment of the tolerances of the dimensions of the pin and / or the orifice of distribution is easy and whose molding / demolding defects can be caught.
  • Another object of the invention is to create a closure system particularly waterproof, wear-resistant throughout the life of the product and ensuring flexible operation, as well as easy opening and closing.
  • the invention advantageously aims the use of non-circular section holes, so far unknown in the aforementioned areas of use.
  • the invention relates to a distribution capsule intended for equip a bottle containing a fluid product, comprising a body provided with a dispensing orifice and a pivoting cover, hinged with the body around an axis, the body and the cover being made of a rigid or semi-rigid material, this cover being provided with a stopper pin, intended to stopper the dispensing orifice in the storage position.
  • a coating made of elastomeric material is deposited on the external wall of the pin, to ensure, in the closed position of the cover, a perfect seal between the pin and the orifice in said storage position.
  • Another object of the invention is constituted by a distribution assembly comprising a product reservoir, equipped with a capsule according to the invention as previously described.
  • the tank equipped with such a capsule consists of a more or less flexible bottle, or by a compressible tube.
  • this reservoir has a neck, on which is fixed, by screwing, breakdown, overmolding, welding or any other known means, the capsule distribution.
  • the product to be dispensed is able to flow under its own weight and is, for example, a shampoo or a body milk whose viscosity is generally in a range from 50 mPa ⁇ s to 5 Pa ⁇ s or a powdery product.
  • the dispensing orifice may have a circular, oval section, polygonal or elongated, the section of the spike being complementary to that of the orifice. Thanks to the invention, it is possible to make orifices, in particular of non-circular section without the creation of a fault problem sealing.
  • the external coating of the pin has a thickness between approximately 0.1 mm and 3 mm.
  • a pin can be produced hollow, formed by a cylindrical skirt.
  • the internal volume of the spike can be filled with flexible material. This is advantageous because it avoids temporary confinement of product residues inside the spike, residues which may run out unexpectedly when the cover is opened and defile the work plan.
  • the cover is articulated with the capsule body to using a pivoting hinge around an axis.
  • This hinge is, of preferably, a film hinge made of material during the molding of the body capsule and lid.
  • the capsule and its cover are made of a material rigid or semi-rigid thermoplastic, for example polypropylene or high or low density polyethylene.
  • the flexible material can be a thermoplastic elastomer physico-chemically compatible with the material rigid or semi-rigid, capable of forming, during the production of the capsule by example by bi-injection or overmolding, a bond by thermofusion with the rigid or semi-rigid material.
  • this thermoplastic elastomer is chosen, advantageously, in the group of polyether blockamide elastomers polyvinyls; terpolymers of ethylene, propylene and a diene (EPDM); block styrene-ethylene-butadiene polymers (SEBS-SIS).
  • the flexible material is chosen from among the natural or synthetic rubbers, or among the rubbers of silicone.
  • said coating consists an elastomer insert deposited on the external wall of the pin by assembly.
  • this assembly can be carried out, for example, by breakdown, gluing, welding, stretching, fastening or any other means appropriate.
  • Stretch mounting is particularly advantageous in which it allows thinner thicknesses.
  • the flexible material is chosen so that the coating has a hardness between 20 Shore A and 90 Shore A; and preferably between 30 Shore A and 60 Shore A.
  • the capsule of the invention can be provided with a number of additional provisions, described below.
  • a part of the body and / or of the cover can be provided with a zone gripping device comprising a zone made of flexible material, made at the same time time the coating of the pin, by overmolding or bi-injection of the body capsule.
  • This gripping area makes it easier to open and close the cover, due to the anti-slip effect of certain elastomers. This is advantageous, especially when the user's hands are wet, for example in the shower.
  • the body of the capsule may include an annular seal in flexible material, in tight contact with a peripheral edge of the cover, when the latter is in the folded position.
  • connecting element made of flexible material, elastically deformable in elongation, forming a spring.
  • one of the ends of the connecting element is integral with the body, the other is secured to the cover.
  • the connecting element is mounted so that be located on one side of the pivot axis of the cover when the cover is in open position, and on the other side of the pivot axis when the cover is in the closed position.
  • the connecting element undergoes elongation during passage from the open position to the closed position, or vice versa, and the maximum is reached when the connecting element passes along the axis of pivoting. This element is thus able to maintain, at will, the cover in two extreme positions: in a fully open position or in a closed or almost closed position.
  • the provisions mentioned above, namely the elastic band, the external coating of the spike, overmolding of the grip and the annular seal can be performed in a single step of manufacturing using the bi-injection process, consisting of injecting into a one and the same piece, in a suitable mold, first, the articulated capsule with the lid of rigid material; in a second time, we make the elastic band, the coating of the spike, the overmolding of the gripping zones and the annular seal in material flexible thermoplastic.
  • a distribution assembly designated as a whole by the reference 1, comprising a reservoir 21 having an axis longitudinal X, equipped with a distribution capsule 3 provided with a reference 32.
  • the reservoir 21 has a closed bottom 22 and, on the side opposite the bottom, a neck 2 provided with an external thread 24 for fixing the body 32 of capsule on the tank.
  • the capsule body has a skirt internal cylindrical 25, provided with an internal thread complementary to the thread 24 of the neck 2.
  • the reservoir 21 has a general circular or oval section, but this can be any, for example polygonal or asymmetrical. It is realized; for example, high density polyethylene.
  • the capsule body meanwhile, is made of a rigid material, such as polypropylene.
  • the body 32 of the capsule 3 comprises a plate 34, provided on a portion from its periphery with a film hinge 8, with the aid of which a cover 5, allowing the latter to pivot about an axis A constituting the axis of the hinge.
  • the cover 5 has a shape of a cap provided with an edge device 51 facing the tank.
  • a dispensing orifice 4 is provided in tray 34, on the side opposite the hinge 8 and in a plane passing through the hinge and through the axis X of the tank 21, a dispensing orifice 4 is provided in tray 34, on the side opposite the hinge 8 and in a plane passing through the hinge and through the axis X of the tank 21, a dispensing orifice 4 is provided in tray 34, on the side opposite the hinge 8 and in a plane passing through the hinge and through the axis X of the tank 21, a dispensing orifice 4 is provided in tray 34, on the side opposite the hinge 8 and in a plane passing through the hinge and through the axis X
  • the hinge 8 is formed in two parts 8a, 8b, separated by a recess 8c.
  • Two bars 12, 13 oriented parallel to the axis A pass through the recess.
  • These bars 12, 13 are embedded in a flat strip 10 of material elastomer and constitute means for anchoring the strip.
  • the ends of this strip are integral with the body 32 of the capsule and the cover 5 respectively, the joining of this strip 10 on the body 32 and the cover 5 being obtained by thermofusion of the respective materials during manufacture of the capsule 3.
  • points additional anchors 14 can be provided on each adjoining part at the ends of the strip 10.
  • This strip 10 is mounted so as to be located on one side of the axis A in open position of cover 5, and on the other side of axis A in closed position of the cover.
  • the strip 10 undergoes an elongation during its passage from a positions to each other and whose maximum is reached during the passage of the strip 10 at axis A.
  • the cover 5 is recalled either in its open position or in its position closed or almost closed. From the almost closed position, the cover 5 can be closed completely by sliding the pin 6 into hole 4.
  • flexible strip 10 is produced, for example, from a mixture of polypropylene / block polymer of styrene - ethylene - butylene - styrene.
  • the dispensing orifice 4 is blocked, in the folded position of the cover, by a pin 6 closing off the tubular part 41.
  • This pin 6 is hollow and carries a external covering 72 in flexible material.
  • the internal diameters of the part tubular 41 and external of coating 72 are chosen so that the pin 6 can frictionally enter, tightly, in the orifice 4, when the cover 5.
  • this diameter is of the order of 3 to 8 mm, in depending on the viscosity of the product to be dispensed. Typically, this viscosity is included in the range from 50 mPa ⁇ s to 5 Pa ⁇ s.
  • the interior 71 of the pin 6 can be filled of an elastomeric material
  • the plate 34 further comprises, at its periphery, an annular seal 11 made of elastomeric material. He is willing to so that the edge 51 of the cover 5 comes to bear against this seal 11, in capsule closing position.
  • the skirt 38 On the side opposite the hinge 8, the skirt 38 has a depression area 95 in the form of an arc of a circle for example, facilitating the gripping and opening of the cover 5.
  • the surface 96 of this area is covered by a layer of flexible material.
  • the cover 5 comprises a gripping zone 91 in the form of a concave return 9, this zone being also covered with flexible material. The use of a flexible material for the gripping areas gives the user a pleasant touch and easy handling of the capsule.
  • SANTOPRENE® mixture of polypropylene with terpolymers of ethylene, propylene and a diene (EPDM)
  • EPDM diene
  • Figure 3 shows a view similar to that of Figure 2 illustrating a alternative embodiment of the stopper pin.
  • a capsule 103 has a cover 105 provided with a pin 106.
  • This pin has a elongated section, curved in the shape of a "bean”. It has a coating outer 172 in flexible elastomeric material.
  • the corresponding hole 104 has a complementary shape, so that the pin can enter this hole to friction.
  • the "bean" shape of the orifice 104 and the picot 106 is given only as an example. According to the invention, any other form imaginable can be considered.
  • the way of making the capsule according to the invention is of great simplicity to manufacture in a single short molding cycle duration, by successive bi-injection of rigid and flexible materials. This capsule can then be manufactured at an advantageous cost price.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)

Description

La présente invention se rapporte à une capsule de distribution destinée à équiper un réservoir contenant un produit fluide à distribuer, ainsi qu'à un ensemble de distribution équipé de cette capsule. Elle est équipée d'un système de bouchage, pouvant être ouvert pour la distribution du produit, et fermé pour sa conservation.The present invention relates to a dispensing capsule intended for equip a tank containing a fluid to be dispensed, as well as a distribution assembly equipped with this capsule. It is equipped with a system closure, which can be opened for product distribution and closed for conservation.

Des réservoirs munis d'une capsule de ce genre sont utilisés habituellement dans différents domaines, pour le stockage et la distribution de produits liquides, par exemple dans les domaines cosmétique, alimentaire, ménager, pharmaceutique ou parapharmaceutique. Ces produits sont, notamment, des shampooings, des antiseptiques, des nettoyants ménagers ou des produits pour la vaisselle. Grâce à l'utilisation d'une telle capsule, on évite, d'une part, l'écoulement du produit pendant le transport et le stockage, et d'autre part, on protège le produit des salissures de provenant de l'extérieur. D'autre part, avec une telle capsule, l'utilisateur peut distribuer aisément, de façon controlée, le produit contenu dans le réservoir.Tanks with such a capsule are commonly used in different areas, for the storage and distribution of liquid products, for example in the cosmetic, food, household, pharmaceutical or parapharmaceutical. These products are, in particular, shampoos, antiseptics, household cleaners or products for the dishes. Thanks to the use of such a capsule, on the one hand, the flow of the product during transport and storage, and on the other hand, protects the product from dirt from the outside. On the other hand, with such a capsule, the user can easily distribute, in a controlled manner, the product contained in the tank.

Plus particulièrement, la présente invention se rapporte à une capsule comportant un orifice de distribution de produit et un couvercle pivotant, le système de bouchage de l'orifice étant constitué par un picot porté par le couvercle, prévu pour fermer cet orifice.More particularly, the present invention relates to a capsule comprising a product dispensing orifice and a pivoting cover, the orifice closure system consisting of a pin carried by the cover, intended to close this opening.

Le picot introduit dans l'orifice de distribution doit satisfaire à plusieurs fonctions ; il doit garantir une bonne étanchéité ; la force d'ouverture doit être raisonnable, et, lors de l'ouverture, il ne doit pas se produire un bruit de pistonnage. Ces qualités doivent être assurées tout au long de l'utilisation du produit. Or, avec les matériaux couramment utilisés pour l'injection de telles capsules, tels que le polyéthylène ou le polypropylène, le réglage dimensionnel est très délicat, car les tolérances doivent rester en-dessous de 0,05 mm, d'autant plus que des déformations supplémentaires risquent de se produire lors du démoulage. En outre, lors d'une utilisation intense, par l'usure du picot et/ou de l'orifice, ce picot ne rentre plus à friction dans l'orifice et, par conséquent, des fuites de produit peuvent se produire.The pin introduced into the dispensing orifice must satisfy several functions; it must guarantee a good seal; the opening force must be reasonable, and when opening, there should be no noise swabbing. These qualities must be ensured throughout the use of the product. However, with the materials commonly used for the injection of such capsules, such as polyethylene or polypropylene, dimensional adjustment is very delicate, because the tolerances must remain below 0.05 mm, all the more since additional deformations are likely to occur during demolding. In addition, during heavy use, by the wear of the spike and / or the orifice, this pin no longer enters friction in the orifice and, by therefore, product leaks may occur.

Une capsule de distribution du genre de celle mentionnée ci-dessus, est décrite, par exemple, dans le document FR-A-2 662 144. Ce document décrit une capsule de distribution comportant un orifice de distribution et un couvercle pivotant muni d'un picot creux, destiné à boucher l'orifice de distribution en position de stockage, ce picot se présentant sous la forme d'une jupe cylindrique. Suivant ce document, l'orifice de distribution est ménagé dans une portion plane, perpendiculaire à l'axe longitudinal de la capsulé, cette portion étant réalisée en caoutchouc thermoélastique.A dispensing capsule of the kind mentioned above is described, for example, in document FR-A-2 662 144. This document describes a dispensing capsule comprising a dispensing orifice and a cover swivel provided with a hollow pin, intended to plug the dispensing orifice storage position, this pin being in the form of a skirt cylindrical. According to this document, the dispensing orifice is provided in a flat portion, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the capsule, this portion being made of thermoelastic rubber.

Cette capsule de l'art antérieur présente l'inconvénient, que, lorsqu'on ferme le couvercle, un effort relativement important est nécessaire pour engager le picot dans l'orifice de distribution. En effet, lors de l'opération de fermeture, le picot est au contact avec le bord de l'orifice et, avant de s'engager dans l'orifice, repousse ladite portion en caoutchouc.This capsule of the prior art has the disadvantage that, when close the cover, a relatively large effort is required to engage the pin in the dispensing orifice. Indeed, during the operation of closure, the pin is in contact with the edge of the orifice and, before engaging in the hole, pushes back said rubber portion.

On connaít, également, par le document US-A-5 169 035, une capsule semblable à la capsule précitée, l'orifice de distribution étant réalisé par une pièce annulaire en élastomère, clipsée dans une ouverture de la face supérieure de la capsule et obturée par un picot porté par le couvercle articule avec la capsule.We also know from US-A-5,169,035, a capsule similar to the aforementioned capsule, the dispensing orifice being produced by a annular elastomer part, clipped into an opening in the face upper part of the capsule and closed by a pin carried by the articulated cover with the capsule.

Bien que la capsule selon US-A-5 169 035 permette d'obtenir un bouchage étanche de l'orifice de distribution par le picot, elle présente les inconvénients suivants : d'une part, la pièce en élastomère doit présenter une épaisseur importante pour pouvoir assurer son maintien dans l'ouverture de la capsule ; - d'autre part, le choix des élastomères utilisables pour la réalisation de la pièce annulaire est limité. En effet, en vue d'un engagement souple et étanche à la fois du picot dans l'orifice de distribution, il serait souhaitable d'utiliser des élastomères dits "mous" (c'est-à-dire des élastomères dont la dureté est inférieure à environ 60 Shore A). Or, pour assurer un bon maintien de la pièce en élastomère dans, l'ouverture de la capsule, ce matériau doit présenter une dureté supérieure à 60 Shore A, ce qui est préjudiciable au fonctionnement souple et à l'étanchéité souhaités de la capsule. En outre, avec un tel matériau, les tolérances de dimension et de positionnement du picot par rapport à l'orifice de distribution peuvent être moins bien rattrapées. Enfin, le montage de la pièce annulaire dans l'orifice par l'intérieur de la capsule est relativement compliqué et nécessite un outillage approprié particulier.Although the capsule according to US-A-5 169 035 allows to obtain a blockage watertight from the dispensing orifice by the pin, it has the disadvantages following: on the one hand, the elastomer part must have a thickness important to be able to maintain it in the opening of the capsule; - on the other hand, the choice of elastomers which can be used for the production of the part ring finger is limited. Indeed, with a view to flexible and waterproof engagement Once there is spike in the dispensing orifice, it would be desirable to use so-called "soft" elastomers (that is to say elastomers whose hardness is less than about 60 Shore A). However, to ensure good maintenance of the part elastomer in, the opening of the capsule, this material must have a hardness greater than 60 Shore A, which is detrimental to operation flexible and to the desired sealing of the capsule. Also, with such a material, dimensional and positioning tolerances of the pin relative to the orifice distribution may be less well caught. Finally, the assembly of the annular piece in the hole from the inside of the capsule is relatively complicated and requires special appropriate tools.

La présente invention a pour premier objet une capsule de distribution, présentant un fonctionnement souple lors de son ouverture ou de sa fermeture, dans des bonnes conditions d'étanchéité et dont le prix de revient est compétitif.The present invention firstly relates to a distribution capsule, having flexible operation when it is opened or closed, in good sealing conditions and the cost price of which is competitive.

Un second objet de l'invention est constitué par une capsule de distribution dont le réglage des tolérances des dimensions du picot et/ou de l'orifice de distribution est aisé et dont les défauts de moulage/démoulage peuvent être rattrapés. Un autre objet de l'invention est de créer un système de bouchage particulièrement étanche, résistant à l'usure pendant toute la durée de vie du produit et assurant un fonctionnement souple, ainsi qu'un fonctionnement d'ouverture et de fermeture aisé. En outre, l'invention vise avantageusement l'utilisation d'orifices de section non circulaires, alors jusqu'à maintenant inconnus dans les domaines d'utilisation précités.A second object of the invention consists of a distribution capsule whose adjustment of the tolerances of the dimensions of the pin and / or the orifice of distribution is easy and whose molding / demolding defects can be caught. Another object of the invention is to create a closure system particularly waterproof, wear-resistant throughout the life of the product and ensuring flexible operation, as well as easy opening and closing. In addition, the invention advantageously aims the use of non-circular section holes, so far unknown in the aforementioned areas of use.

Les objectifs visés ci-dessus sont atteints en déposant un revêtement en matériau élastomérique sur la paroi externe du picot. Le dépôt de ce revêtement, dans ((hypothèse où il est realisé par bi-injection ou par surmoulage sur le picot, est plus facile à réaliser que la réalisation, selon l'art antérieur, d'un orifice de distribution pratiqué dans une zone en élastomère. En outre, la réalisation d'un revêtement sur la paroi externe du picot permet, d'une part, de réaliser ce revêtement en une couche de fine épaisseur, donc d'économiser du matériau, et, d'autre part, d'utiliser des élastomères particulièrement souples (de dureté inférieure à 60 Shore A), ce qui confère à la capsule un fonctionnement souple et une étanchéité parfaiteThe above objectives are achieved by depositing a coating in elastomeric material on the outer wall of the spike. The filing of this coating, in ((assumption where it is made by bi-injection or by overmoulding on the pin, is easier to make than making, according to art anterior, of a dispensing orifice made in an elastomer zone. In in addition, the realization of a coating on the external wall of the pin allows, a part, to make this coating in a thin layer, so to save material, and, on the other hand, to use elastomers particularly flexible (hardness less than 60 Shore A), which gives the capsule flexible operation and perfect sealing

Ainsi, l'invention se rapporte à une capsule de distribution destinée à équiper un flacon contenant un produit fluide, comportant un corps pourvu d'un orifice de distribution et d'un couvercle pivotant, articulé avec le corps autour d'un axe, le corps et le couvercle étant réalisés en un matériau rigide ou semi-rigide, ce couvercle étant pourvu d'un picot de bouchage, destiné à boucher l'orifice de distribution en position de stockage. Selon l'invention, un revêtement en matériau élastomérique est déposé sur la paroi externe du picot, pour assurer, en position fermée du couvercle, une étanchéité parfaite entre le picot et l'orifice dans ladite position de stockage.Thus, the invention relates to a distribution capsule intended for equip a bottle containing a fluid product, comprising a body provided with a dispensing orifice and a pivoting cover, hinged with the body around an axis, the body and the cover being made of a rigid or semi-rigid material, this cover being provided with a stopper pin, intended to stopper the dispensing orifice in the storage position. According to the invention, a coating made of elastomeric material is deposited on the external wall of the pin, to ensure, in the closed position of the cover, a perfect seal between the pin and the orifice in said storage position.

Un autre objet de l'invention est constitué par un ensemble de distribution comportant un réservoir de produit, équipé d'une capsule conforme à l'invention telle que décrite précédemment.Another object of the invention is constituted by a distribution assembly comprising a product reservoir, equipped with a capsule according to the invention as previously described.

Généralement, le réservoir équipé d'une telle capsule est constitué par un flacon plus ou moins souple, ou bien par un tube compressible. De préférence, ce réservoir comporte un col, sur lequel est fixée, par vissage, claquage, surmoulage, soudage ou tout autre moyen connu, la capsule de distribution.Generally, the tank equipped with such a capsule consists of a more or less flexible bottle, or by a compressible tube. Of preferably, this reservoir has a neck, on which is fixed, by screwing, breakdown, overmolding, welding or any other known means, the capsule distribution.

Le produit à distribuer est capable de s'écouler sous son propre poids et est, par exemple, un shampooing ou un lait corporel dont la viscosité est comprise généralement dans une gamme allant de 50 mPa·s à 5 Pa·s ou bien un produit pulvérulent.The product to be dispensed is able to flow under its own weight and is, for example, a shampoo or a body milk whose viscosity is generally in a range from 50 mPa · s to 5 Pa · s or a powdery product.

L'orifice de distribution peut présenter une section circulaire, ovale, polygonale ou allongée, la section du picot étant complémentaire à celle de l'orifice. Grâce à l'invention, il est envisageable de réaliser des orifices, notamment de section non circulaire sans qu'il se crée de problème de défaut d'étanchéité.The dispensing orifice may have a circular, oval section, polygonal or elongated, the section of the spike being complementary to that of the orifice. Thanks to the invention, it is possible to make orifices, in particular of non-circular section without the creation of a fault problem sealing.

Grâce à la souplesse du revêtement, des défauts mineurs de positionnement du picot par rapport à l'orifice peuvent être rattrapés. Il en est de même, pour des différences des diamètres respectifs de l'orifice et du picot. Notamment, lorsqu'on veut réaliser des orifices de forme non circulaire, par exemple sous forme d'étoile ou de bande plate, une bonne étanchéité peut être obtenue, en disposant un revêtement en matériau élastomérique sur la paroi externe du picot, tout en assurant un fonctionnement souple d'ouverture et de fermeture de l'orifice de distribution.Thanks to the flexibility of the coating, minor defects of positioning of the pin relative to the orifice can be caught. It is similarly, for differences in the respective diameters of the orifice and the pin. In particular, when one wishes to make orifices of non-circular shape, for example example in the form of a star or flat strip, a good seal can be obtained by placing an elastomeric coating on the wall external of the pin, while ensuring a flexible opening and closing the dispensing orifice.

Avantageusement, le revêtement externe du picot présente une épaisseur comprise entre environ 0,1 mm et 3 mm. Advantageously, the external coating of the pin has a thickness between approximately 0.1 mm and 3 mm.

Selon un autre aspect intéressant de l'invention, on peut réaliser un picot creux, formé par une jupe cylindrique. Dans ce cas, le volume interne du picot peut être rempli de matériau souple. Ceci est avantageux, car on évite un emprisonnement temporaire de résidus de produit à l'intérieur du picot, résidus qui risquent de s'écouler intempestivement, lors de l'ouverture du couvercle et souiller le plan de travail.According to another interesting aspect of the invention, a pin can be produced hollow, formed by a cylindrical skirt. In this case, the internal volume of the spike can be filled with flexible material. This is advantageous because it avoids temporary confinement of product residues inside the spike, residues which may run out unexpectedly when the cover is opened and defile the work plan.

Avantageusement, le couvercle est articulé avec le corps de capsule à l'aide d'une charnière pivotante autour d'un axe. Cette charnière est, de préférence, une charnière-film venue de matière lors du moulage du corps de capsule et du couvercle.Advantageously, the cover is articulated with the capsule body to using a pivoting hinge around an axis. This hinge is, of preferably, a film hinge made of material during the molding of the body capsule and lid.

De préférence, la capsule et son couvercle sont réalisés en un matériau thermoplastique rigide ou semi-rigide, par exemple en polypropylène ou en polyéthylène de haute ou basse densité.Preferably, the capsule and its cover are made of a material rigid or semi-rigid thermoplastic, for example polypropylene or high or low density polyethylene.

Selon un premier mode de réalisation, le matériau souple peut être un élastomère thermoplastique physico-chimiquement compatible avec le matériau rigide ou semi-rigide, capable de former, lors de la réalisation de la capsule par exemple par bi-injection ou surmoulage, une liaison par thermofusion avec le matériau rigide ou semi-rigide.According to a first embodiment, the flexible material can be a thermoplastic elastomer physico-chemically compatible with the material rigid or semi-rigid, capable of forming, during the production of the capsule by example by bi-injection or overmolding, a bond by thermofusion with the rigid or semi-rigid material.

Selon ce mode de réalisation, cet élastomère thermoplastique est choisi, avantageusement, dans le groupe des élastomères de polyéther blocamides des polyvinyles ; des terpolymères d'éthylène, de propylène et d'un diène (EPDM) ; des polymères de styrène-éthylène-butadiène séquencés (SEBS-SIS).According to this embodiment, this thermoplastic elastomer is chosen, advantageously, in the group of polyether blockamide elastomers polyvinyls; terpolymers of ethylene, propylene and a diene (EPDM); block styrene-ethylene-butadiene polymers (SEBS-SIS).

Selon un autre mode de réalisation, le matériau souple est choisi parmi les caoutchoucs naturelles ou synthétiques, ou bien parmi les caoutchoucs de silicone.According to another embodiment, the flexible material is chosen from among the natural or synthetic rubbers, or among the rubbers of silicone.

Selon un autre mode de réalisation encore, ledit revêtement est constitué d'une pièce rapportée en élastomère déposée sur la paroi externe du picot par assemblage.According to yet another embodiment, said coating consists an elastomer insert deposited on the external wall of the pin by assembly.

Avantageusement, cet assemblage peut être effectué, par exemple, par claquage, collage, soudure, étirement, bouterollage ou tout autre moyen approprié. Le montage par étirement est tout particulièrement avantageux en ce qu'il autorise des épaisseurs plus fines.Advantageously, this assembly can be carried out, for example, by breakdown, gluing, welding, stretching, fastening or any other means appropriate. Stretch mounting is particularly advantageous in which it allows thinner thicknesses.

Avantageusement, le matériau souple est choisi de sorte que le revêtement présente une dureté comprise entre 20 Shore A et 90 Shore A; et de préférence comprise entre 30 Shore A et 60 Shore A.Advantageously, the flexible material is chosen so that the coating has a hardness between 20 Shore A and 90 Shore A; and preferably between 30 Shore A and 60 Shore A.

La capsule de l'invention peut être munie d'un certain, nombre de dispositions complémentaires, décrites ci-après. The capsule of the invention can be provided with a number of additional provisions, described below.

Ainsi, une partie du corps et/ou du couvercle peut être pourvue d'une zone de préhension comportant une zone en matériau souple, réalisée en même temps que le revêtement du picot, par surmoulage ou bi-injection du corps de capsule. Cette zone de préhension facilite l'ouverture et la fermeture du couvercle, du fait d'un effet anti-dérapant que présentent certains élastomères. Ceci est avantageux, notamment lorsque les mains de l'utilisateur sont mouillées, par exemple sous la douche.Thus, a part of the body and / or of the cover can be provided with a zone gripping device comprising a zone made of flexible material, made at the same time time the coating of the pin, by overmolding or bi-injection of the body capsule. This gripping area makes it easier to open and close the cover, due to the anti-slip effect of certain elastomers. This is advantageous, especially when the user's hands are wet, for example in the shower.

De plus, le corps de la capsule peut comporter un joint annulaire en matériau souple, en contact étanche avec un bord périphérique du couvercle, lorsque ce dernier est en position rabattue.In addition, the body of the capsule may include an annular seal in flexible material, in tight contact with a peripheral edge of the cover, when the latter is in the folded position.

Il est envisageable, également, de prévoir au moins un élément de liaison en matériau souple, élastiquement déformable en élongation, formant ressort. Dans ce cas, l'une des extrémités de l'élément de liaison est solidaire du corps, l'autre est solidaire du couvercle. L'élément de liaison est monté de manière à être situé d'un côté de l'axe de pivotement du couvercle lorsque celui-ci est en position ouverte, et de l'autre côté de l'axe de pivotement lorsque le couvercle est en position fermée. L'élément de liaison subit une élongation lors du passage de la position ouverte à la position fermée, ou inversement, et dont le maximum est atteint lors du passage de l'élément de liaison dans l'axe de pivotement. Cet élément est ainsi apte à maintenir, à volonté, le couvercle dans deux positions extrêmes : dans une position totalement ouverte ou dans une position fermée ou quasi-fermée.It is also conceivable to provide at least one connecting element made of flexible material, elastically deformable in elongation, forming a spring. In this case, one of the ends of the connecting element is integral with the body, the other is secured to the cover. The connecting element is mounted so that be located on one side of the pivot axis of the cover when the cover is in open position, and on the other side of the pivot axis when the cover is in the closed position. The connecting element undergoes elongation during passage from the open position to the closed position, or vice versa, and the maximum is reached when the connecting element passes along the axis of pivoting. This element is thus able to maintain, at will, the cover in two extreme positions: in a fully open position or in a closed or almost closed position.

Les dispositions mentionnées ci-dessus, à savoir la bande élastique, le revêtement externe du picot, le surmoulage des zones de préhension et le joint annulaire peuvent être réalisées en une seule étape de fabrication en utilisant le procédé de bi-injection, consistant à injecter en une seule et même pièce, dans un moule approprié, en un premier temps, la capsule articulée avec le couvercle en matériau rigide ; dans un deuxième temps, on réalise la bande élastique, le revêtement du picot, le surmoulage des zones de préhension et le joint annulaire en matériau thermoplastique souple.The provisions mentioned above, namely the elastic band, the external coating of the spike, overmolding of the grip and the annular seal can be performed in a single step of manufacturing using the bi-injection process, consisting of injecting into a one and the same piece, in a suitable mold, first, the articulated capsule with the lid of rigid material; in a second time, we make the elastic band, the coating of the spike, the overmolding of the gripping zones and the annular seal in material flexible thermoplastic.

Pour mieux faire comprendre l'objet de l'invention, on va décrire, maintenant, à titre d'exemples purement illustratifs et non limitatifs, deux modes de réalisation de capsule de distribution conforme à l'invention, en référence aux dessins annexés.

  • La figure 1 représente, en coupe axiale, un ensemble de distribution, en position ouverte, comprenant un réservoir muni d'une capsule de distribution, selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 2 représente, une vue de dessus de la capsule de la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 3 montre une vue de dessus d'une variante de la capsule de la figure 1 ;
  • la figure 4 montre une coupe axiale d'une autre variante de la capsule de la figure 1.
To better understand the object of the invention, a description will now be given, by way of purely illustrative and nonlimiting examples, of two embodiments of a dispensing capsule in accordance with the invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings.
  • FIG. 1 shows, in axial section, a distribution assembly, in the open position, comprising a reservoir provided with a distribution capsule, according to the invention;
  • 2 shows a top view of the capsule of Figure 1;
  • Figure 3 shows a top view of a variant of the capsule of Figure 1;
  • FIG. 4 shows an axial section of another variant of the capsule of FIG. 1.

En référence, à la figure 1, on peut voir un ensemble de distribution désigné dans son ensemble par la référence 1, comportant un réservoir 21 ayant un axe longitudinal X, équipé d'une capsule de distribution 3 pourvue d'un corps de référence 32. Le réservoir 21 comporte un fond fermé 22 et, du côté opposé au fond, un goulot 2 muni d'un filetage externe 24 pour la fixation du corps 32 de capsule sur le réservoir. A cet effet, le corps de capsule comporte une jupe interne cylindrique 25, munie d'un filetage interne complémentaire au filetage 24 du goulot 2. Le réservoir 21 a une section générale circulaire ou ovale, mais celle-ci peut être quelconque, par exemple polygonale ou dissymétrique. Il est réalisé; par exemple, en polyéthylène haute densité. Le corps de la capsule, quant à lui, est réalisé en un matériau rigide, comme le polypropylène.With reference to FIG. 1, we can see a distribution assembly designated as a whole by the reference 1, comprising a reservoir 21 having an axis longitudinal X, equipped with a distribution capsule 3 provided with a reference 32. The reservoir 21 has a closed bottom 22 and, on the side opposite the bottom, a neck 2 provided with an external thread 24 for fixing the body 32 of capsule on the tank. For this purpose, the capsule body has a skirt internal cylindrical 25, provided with an internal thread complementary to the thread 24 of the neck 2. The reservoir 21 has a general circular or oval section, but this can be any, for example polygonal or asymmetrical. It is realized; for example, high density polyethylene. The capsule body, meanwhile, is made of a rigid material, such as polypropylene.

Le corps 32 de la capsule 3 comporte un plateau 34, pourvu sur une portion de sa périphérie d'une charnière-film 8, à l'aide de laquelle est articulé un couvercle 5, permettant à ce dernier de pivoter autour d'un axe A constituant l'axe de la charnière. Le couvercle 5 a une forme de calotte muni d'un bord périphérique 51 tourné vers le réservoir. Dans le plateau 34, du côté opposé à la charnière 8 et dans un plan passant par la charnière et par l'axe X du réservoir 21, est prévu un orifice de distribution 4. L'orifice 4 est défini par une tubulure cylindrique 41, 42, s'étendant de part et d'autre du plateau 34. Une partie émergente 41 de la tubulure présente une forme interne conique, s'évasant vers l'extérieur. Cette tubulure constitue un réducteur de débit, la partie 41 émergente ayant la fonction d'un bec verseur.The body 32 of the capsule 3 comprises a plate 34, provided on a portion from its periphery with a film hinge 8, with the aid of which a cover 5, allowing the latter to pivot about an axis A constituting the axis of the hinge. The cover 5 has a shape of a cap provided with an edge device 51 facing the tank. In tray 34, on the side opposite the hinge 8 and in a plane passing through the hinge and through the axis X of the tank 21, a dispensing orifice 4 is provided. The orifice 4 is defined by a tube cylindrical 41, 42, extending on either side of the plate 34. A portion emergent 41 of the tubing has a conical internal shape, flaring towards outside. This tubing constitutes a flow reducer, the emerging part 41 having the function of a spout.

La charnière 8 est formée en deux parties 8a, 8b, séparées par un évidement 8c. Deux barrettes 12, 13 d'orientation parallèle à l'axe A traversent l'évidement. Ces barrettes 12, 13 sont noyées dans une bande plate 10 en matériau élastomère et constituent des moyens d'ancrage de la bande. Les extrémités de cette bande sont solidaires du corps 32 de la capsule et du couvercle 5 respectivement, la solidarisation de cette bande 10 sur le corps 32 et le couvercle 5 étant obtenue par thermofusion des matériaux respectifs lors de la fabrication de la capsule 3. Pour renforcer d'avantage la tenue de la bande 10, des points d'ancrage supplémentaires 14 peuvent être prévus sur chaque partie attenante aux extrémités de la bande 10.The hinge 8 is formed in two parts 8a, 8b, separated by a recess 8c. Two bars 12, 13 oriented parallel to the axis A pass through the recess. These bars 12, 13 are embedded in a flat strip 10 of material elastomer and constitute means for anchoring the strip. The ends of this strip are integral with the body 32 of the capsule and the cover 5 respectively, the joining of this strip 10 on the body 32 and the cover 5 being obtained by thermofusion of the respective materials during manufacture of the capsule 3. To further strengthen the holding of the strip 10, points additional anchors 14 can be provided on each adjoining part at the ends of the strip 10.

Cette bande 10 est monté de manière à se situer d'un côté de l'axe A en position ouverte du couvercle 5, et de l'autre côté de l'axe A en position fermée du couvercle. Ainsi, la bande 10 subit une élongation lors de son passage d'une des positions à l'autre et dont le maximum est atteint lors du passage de la bande 10 au niveau de l'axe A. Une fois franchie la zone d'élongation maximum, le couvercle 5 est rappelé soit dans sa position ouverte, soit dans sa position fermée ou quasi-fermée. A partir de la position quasi-fermée, le couvercle 5 peut être fermé complètement en faisant rentrer, à friction, le picot 6 dans l'orifice 4. La bande souple 10 est réalisée, par exemple, en un mélange de polypropylène / polymère de bloc de styrène - éthylène - butylène - styrène. This strip 10 is mounted so as to be located on one side of the axis A in open position of cover 5, and on the other side of axis A in closed position of the cover. Thus, the strip 10 undergoes an elongation during its passage from a positions to each other and whose maximum is reached during the passage of the strip 10 at axis A. Once the maximum elongation zone has been crossed, the cover 5 is recalled either in its open position or in its position closed or almost closed. From the almost closed position, the cover 5 can be closed completely by sliding the pin 6 into hole 4. flexible strip 10 is produced, for example, from a mixture of polypropylene / block polymer of styrene - ethylene - butylene - styrene.

L'orifice de distribution 4 est bouché, en position rabattue du couvercle, par un picot 6 obturant la partie tubulaire 41. Ce picot 6 est creux et porte un revêtement externe 72 en matériau souple. Les diamètres interne de la partie tubulaire 41 et externe du revêtement 72 sont choisis de sorte que le picot 6 puisse rentrer à friction, de façon étanche, dans l'orifice 4, lorsqu'on ferme le couvercle 5. Avantageusement, ce diamètre est de l'ordre de 3 à 8 mm, en fonction de la viscosité du produit à distribuer. Typiquement, cette viscosité est comprise dans la gamme allant de 50 mPa·s à 5 Pa·s.The dispensing orifice 4 is blocked, in the folded position of the cover, by a pin 6 closing off the tubular part 41. This pin 6 is hollow and carries a external covering 72 in flexible material. The internal diameters of the part tubular 41 and external of coating 72 are chosen so that the pin 6 can frictionally enter, tightly, in the orifice 4, when the cover 5. Advantageously, this diameter is of the order of 3 to 8 mm, in depending on the viscosity of the product to be dispensed. Typically, this viscosity is included in the range from 50 mPa · s to 5 Pa · s.

Il est possible, bien entendu, de réaliser une pièce distincte sous forme de manchon cylindrique en élastomère, dont le diamètre interne est légèrement inférieur au diamètre du picot. Après étirement radial du manchon, ce dernier peut être pose sur le picot où il est maintenu par élasticité.It is of course possible to make a separate room in the form of cylindrical elastomer sleeve, the internal diameter of which is slightly less than the diameter of the pin. After radial stretching of the sleeve, the latter can be placed on the spike where it is held by elasticity.

Comme visible sur les figures 1 et 2, l'intérieur 71 du picot 6 peut être rempli d'un matériau élastomériqueAs shown in Figures 1 and 2, the interior 71 of the pin 6 can be filled of an elastomeric material

Comme illustré, notamment sur la figure 2, le plateau 34 comporte en outre, à sa périphérie, un joint annulaire 11 en matériau élastomérique. Il est disposé de sorte que le bord 51 du couvercle 5 vienne en appui contre ce joint 11, en position de fermeture de la capsule.As illustrated, in particular in FIG. 2, the plate 34 further comprises, at its periphery, an annular seal 11 made of elastomeric material. He is willing to so that the edge 51 of the cover 5 comes to bear against this seal 11, in capsule closing position.

Du côté opposé à la charnière 8, la jupe 38 présente une zone en dépression 95 en forme d'arc de cercle par exemple, facilitant la préhension et l'ouverture du couvercle 5. La surface 96 de cette zone est recouverte par une couche de matériau souple. De même, le couvercle 5 comporte une zone de préhension 91 en forme de retour concave 9, cette zone étant recouverte, également, de matériau souple. L'utilisation d'un matériau souple pour les zones de préhension confère à l'utilisateur un toucher agréable et une manipulation aisée de la capsule. En choisissant un matériau souple particulier, par exemple du SANTOPRENE® (mélange de polypropylène avec des terpolymères d'éthylène, de propylène et d'un diène (EPDM)), commercialisé par la société AES, il est même possible d'obtenir un effet « antiglisse », ce qui est intéressant lorsque l'utilisateur utilise, sous la douche ou dans le bain, un produit tensioactif de nettoyage corporel.On the side opposite the hinge 8, the skirt 38 has a depression area 95 in the form of an arc of a circle for example, facilitating the gripping and opening of the cover 5. The surface 96 of this area is covered by a layer of flexible material. Likewise, the cover 5 comprises a gripping zone 91 in the form of a concave return 9, this zone being also covered with flexible material. The use of a flexible material for the gripping areas gives the user a pleasant touch and easy handling of the capsule. By choosing a particular flexible material, for example SANTOPRENE® (mixture of polypropylene with terpolymers of ethylene, propylene and a diene (EPDM)), marketed by the company AES, it is even possible to obtain an effect "Anti-slip", which is interesting when the user uses, in the shower or in the bath, a surface-cleaning product for body cleaning.

La figure 3 montre une vue analogue de celle de la figure 2 illustrant une variante de réalisation du picot de bouchage. Selon cette réalisation, une capsule 103 comporte un couvercle 105 muni d'un picot 106. Ce picot a une section allongée, courbée en forme de « haricot ». Il comporte un revêtement extérieur 172 en matériau élastomérique souple. L'orifice correspondant 104 a une forme complémentaire, de sorte que le picot peut rentrer dans cet orifice à friction. La forme « haricot » de l'orifice 104 et du picot 106 n'est donnée qu'à titre d'exemple. Selon l'invention, toute autre forme imaginable peut être envisagée. Figure 3 shows a view similar to that of Figure 2 illustrating a alternative embodiment of the stopper pin. According to this embodiment, a capsule 103 has a cover 105 provided with a pin 106. This pin has a elongated section, curved in the shape of a "bean". It has a coating outer 172 in flexible elastomeric material. The corresponding hole 104 has a complementary shape, so that the pin can enter this hole to friction. The "bean" shape of the orifice 104 and the picot 106 is given only as an example. According to the invention, any other form imaginable can be considered.

La façon de réaliser la capsule conforme à l'invention; est d'une grande simplicité permettant de la fabriquer en un seul cycle de moulage de courte durée, par bi-injection successive des matériaux rigide et souple. Cette capsule peut alors être fabriquée à un prix de revient avantageux.The way of making the capsule according to the invention; is of great simplicity to manufacture in a single short molding cycle duration, by successive bi-injection of rigid and flexible materials. This capsule can then be manufactured at an advantageous cost price.

Claims (15)

  1. Dispensing cap (3) intended to be fitted to a container (21) containing a fluid product, comprising a body (32) provided with a dispensing orifice (4) and with a hinged lid (5) articulated to the body about an axis (A), the body (32) and the lid (5) being made of a rigid or semi-rigid material, this lid being provided with a plugging pip (6) intended to plug the dispensing orifice (4), when the lid is closed, characterized in that a coating (72) of elastomeric material is arranged on the outer wall of the pip, to produce a seal between the pip and the orifice (4) when the lid is closed.
  2. Cap according to Claim 1, characterized in that the orifice (4) has a circular, oval, polygonal or elongate cross-section, the cross-section of the pip complementing that of the orifice (4).
  3. Cap according to either of Claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the rigid or semi-rigid material is chosen from polypropylenes or polyethylenes.
  4. Cap according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elastomeric material is a thermoplastic elastomer physico-chemically compatible with the rigid or semi-rigid material, so as to allow a link by fusion with the rigid or semi-rigid material, the said coating (72) being deposited on the outer wall of the pip (6) by dual injection or overmoulding.
  5. Cap according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elastomeric material is chosen from the group of elastomers of propylene/ethylene copolymers; polyether block amides; polyvinyls; terpolymers of ethylene, propylene and a diene (EPDM); styrene-butadiene block polymers (SBS); styrene-ethylene-butadiene block polymers (SEBS-SIS); thermoplastic polyurethanes; blends of polypropylene with one of the following elastomers: styrene-ethylene-butadiene block polymers (SEBS-SIS); terpolymers of ethylene, propylene and a diene (EPDM); styrene-butadiene block polymers (SBS).
  6. Cap according to one of Claims 1 to 3 or 5, characterized in that the said coating (72) forms an attached part deposited on the outer wall of the pip (6) by assembly.
  7. Cap according to Claim 6, characterized in that the attached part is mounted by snap-fastening, bonding, welding, drawing or upset heading.
  8. Cap according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the said coating (72) has a thickness of between 0.1 mm and 3 mm.
  9. Cap according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coating (72) has a hardness of between 20 Shore A and 90 Shore A, and preferably of between 30 Shore A and 60 Shore A.
  10. Cap according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the body (32) and/or the lid (5) is provided with a gripping region (9, 95) covered with a layer of elastomeric material.
  11. Cap according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pip (6) is hollow and full of elastomeric material.
  12. Cap according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the body (32) comprises an annular gasket (11) made of flexible material, in sealed contact with a peripheral edge (51) of the lid (5), when the latter is flipped down.
  13. Cap according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lid (5) is articulated to the body (32) by means of a film hinge (8).
  14. Cap according to one of Claims 1 to 13, characterized in that it comprises at least one connecting element (10) made of elastomeric material, forming a spring, one of the ends of the connecting element (10) being connected to the body (32), the other being connected to the lid (5), the connecting element (10) being mounted in such a way that it lies on one side of the axis A when the lid is open, and on the other side of the axis A when the lid (5) is closed, the connecting element (10) undergoing elongation as it changes from one position to the other, the maximum elongation being reached as the connecting element (10) crosses the axis (A).
  15. Assembly for dispensing a fluid product, comprising a container (21) containing a fluid product, equipped with a dispensing cap (3, 103, 203), characterized in that the cap is a cap in accordance with any one of Claims 1 to 14.
EP97938959A 1996-08-29 1997-08-28 Dispensing cap with improved tightness Expired - Lifetime EP0975526B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9610576 1996-08-29
FR9610576A FR2752820B1 (en) 1996-08-29 1996-08-29 DISTRIBUTION CAPSULE WITH IMPROVED SEALING
PCT/FR1997/001535 WO1998008746A1 (en) 1996-08-29 1997-08-28 Dispensing cap with improved tightness

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0975526A1 EP0975526A1 (en) 2000-02-02
EP0975526B1 true EP0975526B1 (en) 2002-12-11

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EP97938959A Expired - Lifetime EP0975526B1 (en) 1996-08-29 1997-08-28 Dispensing cap with improved tightness

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US6257431B1 (en)
EP (1) EP0975526B1 (en)
DE (1) DE69717863T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2188972T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2752820B1 (en)
WO (1) WO1998008746A1 (en)

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US6257431B1 (en) 2001-07-10
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FR2752820B1 (en) 1998-09-25
DE69717863D1 (en) 2003-01-23
EP0975526A1 (en) 2000-02-02
FR2752820A1 (en) 1998-03-06
WO1998008746A1 (en) 1998-03-05

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