EP4186810A2

EP4186810A2 - Lid-spout assembly, lid-assembly, and package for a pourable product

Info

Publication number: EP4186810A2
Application number: EP23164785.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Hans BOERBOOM
Original assignee: Pchb bvba
Current assignee: Pchb bvba
Priority date: 2023-03-28
Filing date: 2023-03-28
Publication date: 2023-05-31
Also published as: EP4186810A3

Abstract

A lid-spout assembly (1) for a package for a pourable product; wherein the coupling ring comprises: a plurality of flap elements (30), wherein each flap element comprises a proximal portion (31), a middle portion (32), and a distal portion (33); wherein: the distal portion is configured to be arranged in the groove, wherein an upper abutment surface (33a) of the distal portion is configured to abut the lower surface of the first ridge, an end abutment surface (33c) of the distal portion is configured to abut an end surface of the groove, wherein the distal portion extends in a distal portion direction (331), wherein the distal portion direction extends at a non-straight angle from the middle portion direction, wherein the distal portion extends by an end distance (332) from the middle portion into the distal portion direction, which is greater than the second ridge distance.

Description

The present invention relates to the field of a lid-spout assembly, e.g. for a package configured to be filled with a pourable product.
Lid-spout assemblies have been used for a long time for packages for pourable products. For example, many liquids or pourable fruit products are packaged in such packages. The lid-spout assembly is usually arranged at the top of the package, and is provided during the manufacturing process after the pourable product has been provided in the package, to close the package. A consumer can open a pouring outlet by opening the lid.
The simplest lid-spout assemblies allowed a user to remove the lid from the spout for opening the pouring outlet. However, this is not desirable in view of environmental considerations, since the lid may be lost, which may result in pollution. In some regions, legislation has/will also prohibit the use of such removable lids.
Lid-spout assemblies have therefore been developed where the lid remains attached to the assembly, even when the pouring outlet is opened. A coupling ring is e.g. provided around a collar of the spout, and the lid is hingeably attached to said coupling ring. The collar may comprise elements such as protrusions interacting with corresponding elements on the coupling ring. This has the goal to ensure that the coupling ring with the lid remain coupled to the lid-spout assembly.
For example, a lid-spout assembly is disclosed in patent applications EP 3 984 898 A1 and WO 2022/078811 A2 by Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance . The collar in this assembly comprises a first annular interaction ridge and a second annular interaction ridge. A flap extends from the coupling ring. The flap has an engagement surface abutting an abutment surface of the first annular interaction ridge. The flap also has a contact surface interacting with a guiding surface of the second annular interaction ridge.
It has been found, however, that the flap design in said lid-spout assembly is not completely satisfactory. There is, therefore, a need for an improved lid-spout assembly. In some cases it may be desirable to still use the spout assembly as disclosed in EP 3 984 898 A1 and WO 2022/078811 A2 . This may e.g. be the case because it is cumbersome/expensive to replace respective machines in an existing production line, or because the package is delivered with the spout assembly already attached. Thus, there is a particular need for an improved lid assembly that is suitable for being used with a spout assembly as disclosed in EP 3 984 898 A1 and WO 2022/078811 A2 .
It is an object of the invention to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art, or at least provide an alternative to the prior art. It is in particular an object of the invention to address one or more of the needs mentioned above.
One or more objects are achieved with a lid-spout assembly for a package for a pourable product; wherein the lid-spout assembly comprises:

a collar comprising a pouring outlet and an outer surface;
a coupling ring arranged around the collar;
a lid connected to the coupling ring, wherein the lid is configured to be moveable between
- an open position wherein the pouring outlet is opened; and
- a closed position wherein the pouring outlet is closed;

a first ridge protruding from the outer surface of the collar;
a second ridge protruding by a second ridge distance from the outer surface of the collar and being axially displaced from the first ridge;
a groove defined between a lower surface of the first ridge and an upper surface of the second ridge;

an inner surface facing the outer surface of the collar;
a plurality of flap elements, wherein each flap element comprises a proximal portion, a middle portion, and a distal portion; wherein:
- ∘ the proximal portion is attached to the inner surface of the coupling ring,
- ∘ the middle portion extends between the proximal portion to the distal portion, wherein a longitudinal axis of the middle portion extends in a middle portion direction,
- ∘ the distal portion is configured to be arranged in the groove, wherein
  - ▪ an upper abutment surface of the distal portion is configured to abut the lower surface of the first ridge,
  - ▪ an end abutment surface of the distal portion is configured to abut an end surface of the groove,
  - ▪ a longitudinal axis of the distal portion extends in a distal portion direction, wherein the distal portion direction extends at a non-straight angle from the middle portion direction,
  - ▪ wherein the distal portion extends by an end distance from the middle portion into the distal portion direction, wherein the end distance is greater than the second ridge distance that the second ridge protrudes from the outer surface of the collar.

The invention thus relates in embodiments to a lid-spout assembly. It is noted however, that the invention also can relate to parts of the lid-spout assembly, e.g. to the lid assembly. The invention can also relate to a package, and to several methods, as is elaborated on further below.
The lid-spout assembly can be used for a package for a pourable product. The pourable product can e.g. include a food product, e.g. a drinkable product, such as a juice, milk, milk replacements (such as soya or almond drink), iced tea. Other food products can e.g. include tomato sauce.
The package can be any suitable type of package. The package can e.g. have a cuboid shaped main body. The package can e.g. a flat top surface or an inclined top surface. The lid-spout assembly can e.g. be configured to be arranged in said top surface.
The lid-spout assembly comprises a collar, a coupling ring, and a lid. By moving the lid between an open and a closed position, a pouring outlet defined by the collar can be opened or closed, respectively. When the pouring outlet is opened, a user can pour the pourable product out of the package through the pouring outlet. The used can e.g. do this by tilting the package, such that the pouring outlet is arranged lower than at least a part of the pourable product in the package. This way, the pourable product will be guided out of the pouring outlet under the influence of gravity.
The collar is e.g. configured to be attached to the package. For example, the collar may comprise a bottom attachment surface configured to be attached to the package. The bottom attachment surface may e.g. have an annular shape.
The collar and the coupling ring can have a substantially annular shape. Therefore, an axial direction and a radial direction can therefore be defined for each. Although the collar and coupling ring are not limited to annularshapes, the radial and axial direction are generally used herein within the meaning for annular shapes. It may further be possible that, at least in a starting position (e.g. before any rupturable elements are ruptured as is explained further below), the axial direction of the collar ring is parallel to (and optionally also coincides with) the axial direction of the coupling ring. Similarly, in such starting position, the radial direction of the collar may be parallel to the radial direction of the coupling ring.
The collar comprises an outer surface. In this context, the outer surface is the surface arranged the furthest in radial direction. From said outer surface, a first ridge and a second ridge protrude. The first and second ridge are both annular ridges. The second ridge extends a second ridge distance from the outer surface of the collar. The second ridge distance is e.g. defined radial direction. Thus, if the outer surface of the collar is at a distance from a centre point of the collar that corresponds to an outer radius, then an outer point of the second ridge is at a distance from said centre point that corresponds the outer radius combined with the second ridge distance.
The first and second ridge are axially displaced from each other such that, between them, a groove can be defined. In particular, the groove is defined between a lower surface of the first ridge and an upper surface of the second ridge.
Within the context of this document, "upper" and "lower" are defined in the vertical direction of the package, in an upright standing position of the package. That is, in the lid-spout assembly, the lid is arranged above the pouring outlet, and above other elements such as the collar, ridges, and coupling ring. Thus, "upper" is closer to the lid than "lower". It will be understood that the package can be turned, such that these positions are reversed in vertical direction.
Optionally, the first ridge is a continuous ridge, and optionally the second ridge is a continuous ridge. Continuous in this context entails that no distinct begin or end point can be identified. The first ridge can be at a constant radial position when seen in circumferential direction. The second first ridge can be at a constant radial position when seen in circumferential direction. Thus, the first and second ridge are not screw threads.
The first and second ridge can e.g. be embodied as the first and second annular interaction ridge disclosed in EP 3 984 898 A1 and WO 2022/078811 A2 .
The coupling ring is arranged around the collar. In a starting position, the coupling ring and collar can e.g. be coaxial. Being arranged around the collar, the coupling ring is arranged further radially outward. It will be understood that the coupling ring can be smaller in axial direction than the collar. Therefore, the coupling ring will usually not completely encompass the collar, but be arranged around a portion of the collar.
The lid is connected to the coupling ring. Generally, when the lid is moved between the open and closed position, the lid is moved relative to the coupling ring. The lid can e.g. be hingeably or pivotably connected to the coupling ring. The coupling ring is configured to remain, at least during normal use, coupled to the lid-spout assembly. As such, also the lid remains coupled to the lid-spout assembly, which prevents that the lid is removed and lost, which can otherwise cause pollution. It is mentioned that the coupling remains coupled during normal use, wherein normal use reflects the forces that the lid-spout assembly is subjected to when a user intends to open or close the lid. It will be understood that, if a user really intends to uncouple the coupling ring and/or lid from the lid-spout assembly, said user may be successful when applying excessive forces.
The coupling ring comprises an inner surface. A plurality of flap elements are attached to said inner surface. For example, the flap elements may extend from the inner surface, e.g. at least partially radially inwards. The flap elements have a proximal portion, a middle portion, and a distal portion. The proximal portion is attached to the coupling ring and the middle portion extends between the proximal portion and the distal portion. The distal portion is configured to be arranged in the groove defined between the first and second ridge of the collar. A longitudinal axis of the distal portion extends into the groove. Thus, during use, the distal portion is arranged radially inward of the middle portion, and the middle portion is arranged radially inward of the proximal portion.
The middle portion has a longitudinal axis. The middle portion can e.g. be elongated. The longitudinal axis of the middle portion extends in a middle portion direction. The middle portion direction can e.g. be partially in a direction towards the lid (when in the closed position). The distal portion also has a longitudinal axis, which extends in a distal portion direction. The distal portion direction can extend into the groove. The distal portion can e.g. be elongated. The distal portion direction extends at a non-straight angle from the middle direction portion. So, the distal portion is arranged at a non-straight angle of the middle portion. Thus, the distal portion does not extend in line with the middle portion. It is, therefore, generally also possible to clearly distinguish (the main portions of) the middle portion from distal portion.
The distal portion comprises at least an upper abutment surface and an end abutment surface. The upper abutment surface is configured to abut the lower surface of the first ridge. The end abutment surface is configured to abut an end surface of the groove. Said end surface is e.g. the surface delimiting the groove when seen in radially inward direction. The end surface can e.g. be part of the outer surface of the collar. The upper abutment surface and the end abutment surface define the position of the distal portion (and as such also the flap element as such) during use.
In particular, the contact between the upper abutment surface and the lower surface of the first ridge, prevent the coupling ring from being decoupled from the collar (e.g. when the lid is being moved between the open and closed position). The contact force is directed substantially in an axial direction of the coupling ring. A particular advantage of the flap elements described herein when compared to the flap described in EP 3 984 898 A1 and WO 2022/078811 A2 , is that the contact surface is increased. By having the distal portion extend into the groove, the abutment (and thus contact) surface between the flap element and the first ridge is larger. This makes it harder for a user to decouple the coupling ring.
In particular, the end abutment surface contributes to keeping the coupling ring in a substantially centred position. The contact between the end abutment surface and the end surface of the groove is substantially in a radial direction of the coupling ring. Having a plurality of flap elements with such end abutment surface, results in a plurality of axial forces, which contribute to centring the coupling ring.
Optionally, the distal portion extends by an end distance from the middle portion into the distal portion direction, wherein the end distance is greater than the second ridge distance that the second ridge protrudes from the outer surface of the collar.
Thus, when the end abutment surface engages the end surface of the groove, the middle portion is arranged at a distance of the second ridge. That is, the middle portion does not engage the second ridge. There is no contact between the middle portion and the second ridge. The second ridge may e.g. have an outer surface, being the radially most outward surface of the second ridge. The flap element is configured to prevent contact between the flap element and the outer surface of the second ridge.
The end distance being greater than the second ridge distance thus avoids contact between the middle portion and the second ridge. It also avoids contact between the flap element in general and the outer surface of the second ridge. It is noted that this is another difference with the flap disclosed in EP 3 984 898 A1 and WO 2022/078811 A2 , where the contact between the flap and said outer surface (therein referred to as a guiding surface of the second annular interaction ridge) is considered essential. However, the present inventors have found that avoiding this contact is actually more advantageous, because it reduces the contact/friction forces when rotating the coupling ring relative to that collar. Such rotation may be desired by a user, to position the lid to a preferred orientation. The present embodiments thus make it easier to do so.
The plurality of flap elements can e.g. be connected to each other, e.g. together forming a flap. For example, the flap can comprise a plurality of flap elements, evenly distributed over the circumference.
In embodiments, the distal portion is configured to prevent contact between the middle portion and the second ridge. For example, the distal portion is configured to prevent contact between the flap element and the outer surface of the second ridge. This may make it easier to rotate the coupling ring relative to the collar. These embodiments can e.g. be achieved with designing the dimensions of the distal portion relative to the groove and second ridge accordingly.
In embodiments, a width of the distal portion is smaller than a width of the groove, when seen in axial direction of the coupling ring. In this context, the width is the dimension of the distal portion or groove, respectively, when seen in the axial direction of the coupling ring. The width of the distal portion being smaller than the width of the groove, entails that the distal portion can be moved in axial direction. Such movement allows to disengage the upper abutment surface of the distal portion from the lower surface of the first ridge. The effective contact surface between the flap element and the collar is then reduced, which makes it easier for a user to move the coupling ring relative to the collar. This can e.g. be advantageous for positioning the lid to the user's preference.
In embodiments, a lower abutment surface of the distal portion is configured to abut the upper surface of the second ridge. The distal portion thus comprises the lower abutment surface. Optionally, the distal portion is configured to allow axial displacement of the coupling ring relative to the collar. The distal portion can thus be moved in one axial direction until the upper abutment surfaces abuts the lower surface of the first ridge, and in the opposite axial direction until the lower abutment surface abuts the upper surface of the second ridge.
Optionally, the width of the distal portion decrease as the distal portion extends further from the middle portion. Thus, a first part of the distal portion that is arranged closer to the middle portion, when seen in the distal portion direction, has a larger width than a second part of the distal portion that is arranged further from the middle portion.
In embodiments, the flap elements are elastically movable relative to the coupling ring. The elastically movement allows moving the coupling ring relative to the collar. The elastically movement can e.g. be achieved by having an elongated middle portion of the flap element. Optionally, the middle portion direction extends non-perpendicular to the inner surface of the coupling ring. This may enhance the elastic movability. The middle portion direction may e.g. extend non-perpendicular to a proximal portion direction in which the proximal portion extends away from the (inner surface of) the coupling ring.
In embodiments, the first ridge protrudes by a first ridge distance from the outer surface of the collar, wherein the first ridge distance is greater than the second ridge distance. Thus, the first ridge is larger than the second ridge. This may in particular be advantageous when the first ridge is arranged closer to the lid than the second ridge. When the lid is being opened, the distal portion is subjected to a force in the direction of the lid, and will therefore abut the first ridge. The larger first ridge entails a larger contact surface between the first ridge and the distal portion. With a larger contact surface, a larger force is present to maintain the coupling ring couped to the collar.
In embodiments, the flap elements extend from the inner surface of the coupling ring in the direction towards the lid, e.g. towards a top wall of the lid. Thus, when seen in axial direction of the coupling ring, the distal portion is closer to the lid than the proximal portion. This may make it harder to decouple the coupling ring from the collar. For example, the middle direction may extend in a direction at least partially from the coupling ring towards the lid.
In embodiments, when seen in axial direction, the first ridge is arranged closer to the lid than the second ridge. The distal portion of the flap element is arranged closer to the lid than the middle portion. The middle portion of the flap element is arranged closer to the lid than the proximal portion. The distal portion of the flap element is arranged closer to the lid than the second ridge. The middle portion thus extends, when seen in axial direction, from a first location to a second location, wherein the first location is arranged further from the lid than the second ridge, and the second location is arranged closer to the lid than the second ridge.
In embodiments, the proximal portion comprises a longitudinal axis extending in a proximal portion direction, wherein the proximal portion direction extends at a non-straight angle relative to the middle portion direction.
In embodiments, the angle at which is end portion direction extends relative the middle portion direction is between 60-120 degrees, e.g. between 80-100 degrees.
In embodiments, the angle at which is proximal portion direction extends relative the middle portion direction is between 60-120 degrees, e.g. between 80-100 degrees.
In embodiments, the lid assembly comprises a secondary flap element. The secondary flap element extends from the inner surface of the coupling ring, and engage the collar below the second ridge. For example, the secondary flap element engages a lower surface of the second ridge. For example, the secondary flap element extends from the inner surface of the coupling ring at a lower location than the flap element.
In embodiments, the lid assembly further comprises a sealing ring extending from the lid in axial direction of the coupling ring when the lid is in the closed position, wherein the sealing ring is configured to engage an inner surface of the collar when the lid is in the closed position. For example, the sealing ring may engage an upper part of the inner surface of the collar. Optionally, the sealing ring has an annular shape. Optionally, the sealing ring is a continuous ring. Advantageously, the sealing ring provides an additional sealing when the lid is closed, reducing the likelihood of the pourable product leaking out the lid-spout assembly.
In embodiments, the sealing ring comprises a straight section and a curved section. The straight section extends from the lid, the curved section extends from the straight section. When the lid is closed, the straight section extends in longitudinal direction of the collar and the curved section extends partially radially inwards of the collar.
In embodiments, the lid assembly further comprises a hinge element, wherein the hinge element connects the lid to the coupling ring and is configured to allow the lid to be hinged relative to the coupling ring for arranging the lid from the closed position to the open position or vice versa.
In embodiments, the hinge element defines a hinge axis, wherein hinge axis is offset from the center of the collar and/or the center of the coupling ring. For example, the hinge axis may extend approximately at a circumference of the coupling ring. For example, the hinge axis may extend approximately tangent to a circumference of the coupling ring. For example, the hinge axis may extend approximately at a circumference of the collar.
In embodiments, the flap elements are distributed regularly over the coupling ring. For example, the lid assembly may comprise at least 4 flat elements, e.g. at least 10 flap elements, e.g. at least 15 flap elements.
In embodiments, the lid assembly comprises a flap, wherein the flap comprises the flap elements. The flap may e.g. connect the flap elements. The flap elements may e.g. extend from recesses in the flap.
In embodiments, the lid assembly further comprises a plurality of rupturable elements, each connected to the lid and the coupling ring, wherein the rupturable elements are configured to be ruptured a first time the lid is moved from the closed position into the open position. The rupturable elements provide visible evidence to a user to see whether or not the lid has already been opened once. Several variations of rupturable elements are known to the skilled person, which can be implemented in suited ways to the present invention.
In embodiments, the lid assembly further comprises a package seal, wherein the package seal is configured to form a rupturable seal with the spout for sealing an opening of the package. The rupturable seal is configured to be ruptured the first time the lid is arranged in the open position. The package seal keeps the pourable product in the package fresh prior to use. Optionally, a plurality (e.g. four) of seal ribs extend from the lid to the package seal, configured to subject the rupturable seal to a rupturing force when the lid is arranged in the open position.
The lid-spout assembly can be made from any suitable material. For example, one or more components may be made of plastic, LDPE, etc.
The dimensions of the lid-spout assembly may be adapted to the package and the desired pouting outlet. For example, the diameter of the coupling ring can be a few centimeters, with the diameter of the collar being slightly smaller.
The invention further relates to a package fora a pourable product, comprising a lid assembly and/or a lid-spout assembly according to any of the embodiments described herein. The package can e.g. be cuboid shaped main body. The package can e.g. a flat top surface or an inclined top surface. The lid-spout assembly can e.g. be configured to be arranged in said top surface.
The invention further relates to a lid assembly. The lid assembly can be according to any of the embodiments described herein.
For example, the invention can relate to a lid assembly for a lid-spout assembly, the lid assembly comprising:

a coupling ring configured to be arranged around a collar, said collar comprising:
- a pouring outlet,
- an outer surface,
- a first ridge protruding from the outer surface of the collar;
- a second ridge protruding by a second ridge distance from the outer surface of the collar and being axially displaced from the first ridge;
- a groove defined between a lower surface of the first ridge and an upper surface of the second ridge;
a lid connected to the coupling ring, wherein the lid is configured to be moveable between
- an open position wherein the pouring outlet is opened; and
- a closed position wherein the pouring outlet is closed;

an inner surface configured to face the outer surface of the collar;
a plurality of flap elements, wherein each flap element comprises a proximal portion, a middle portion, and a distal portion; wherein:
- ∘ the proximal portion is attached to the inner surface of the coupling ring,
- ∘ the middle portion extends between the proximal portion to the distal portion, wherein a longitudinal axis of the middle portion extends in a middle portion direction,
- ∘ the distal portion is configured to be arranged in the groove, wherein
  - ▪ an upper abutment surface of the distal portion is configured to abut the lower surface of the first ridge,
  - ▪ an end abutment surface of the distal portion is configured to abut an end surface of the groove,
  - ▪ a longitudinal axis of the distal portion extends in a distal portion direction, wherein the distal portion direction extends at a non-straight angle from the middle portion direction,
  - ▪ wherein the distal portion extends by an end distance from the middle portion into the distal portion direction, wherein the end distance is greater than the second ridge distance that the second ridge protrudes from the outer surface of the collar.

It will be understood that the lid assembly or any of the components comprised by the lid assembly can further be in accordance with any of the embodiments described herein. Any of the features explained herein can be added to the lid assembly.
The invention further relates to a method for providing a lid-spout assembly on a package. Features explained herein with reference to the assemblies have the same meaning with respect to the method unless explicitly defined otherwise. Features explained with reference to the assemblies can be applied mutatis mutandis to the method to achieve the similar advantages, and vice versa.
One or more objects of the invention can be achieved with a method for providing a lid-spout on a package, wherein the method comprises the following step: arranging a lid-assembly on a spout-assembly to form a lid-spout assembly, wherein the lid-spout assembly is embodied according to any of the embodiments described herein.
In embodiments, the method comprises a step of arranging the lid-spout assembly on a package.
In embodiments, the method comprises a step of arranging the spout assembly on a package prior to arranging the lid-assembly on the spout-assembly.
Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described using the figures. It is to be understood that these figures merely serve as example of how the invention can be implemented and are in no way intended to be construed as limiting for the scope of the invention and the claims. Like features are indicated by like reference numerals along the figures. In the figures:

Fig. 1a: shows a lid-spout assembly in isometric view;
Fig. 1 b: shows the lid-spout assembly in side view;
Fig. 1c: shows the lid-spout assembly in top view;
Fig; 1d: shows the lid-spout assembly in front view;
Fig. 2a: shows the cross section AA indicated in fig. 1d of the lid-spout assembly;
Fig. 2b: shows an enlarged view of a part of the cross section;
Fig. 2c: shows a further enlarged view of a part of the cross section;
Fig. 3a: shows a lid assembly;
Fig. 3b: shows a lid assembly;
Fig. 3c: shows a spout assembly.

Fig. 1a-1d illustrate a lid-spout assembly 1; wherein fig. 1a shows an isometric view; fig. 1b shows a side view; fig. 1c: shows a top view; and fig. 1d: shows a front view.
The lid-spout assembly 1 comprises a lid 10, a coupling ring 20, and a spout assembly 50 having a collar. The lid 10 is connected to the coupling ring 20. The coupling ring is arranged around the collar. The lid-spout assembly 1 can be arranged on a package for a pourable product. Said package can e.g. have a cuboid shaped main body with a flat or inclined top surface, although other packages are possible as well. The spout assembly 50 is arranged in the top surface of the package. A user can move the lid 10 to an open position, thereby opening a pouring outlet. The user can then let pourable product come out of said pouring outlet, e.g. by tilting the package.
The lid 10 comprises a handle 11 which makes it easy for the user to grab. A hinge element 12 is provided on an opposite side of the lid 10 when compared to the handle 11. The hinge element 12 connects the lid 10 to the coupling ring 20 in a hingeable manner. The hinge element 12 allows the lid 10 to be pivoted around a hinge axis 12a (fig. 1c) for moving the lid 10 from a closed position to an open position. The hinge axis 12a extends tangent to the coupling ring 20.
A plurality of rupturable elements 27 are provided between the lid 10 and the coupling ring 20. Said rupturable elements 27 are connected to both the lid 10 and the coupling ring 20 before the first time the lid 10 is opened. When the lid 10 is opened for the first time, the rupturable elements 27 will rupture. A user can thus see visually on whether the lid 10 has already been opened.
Fig. 2a shows the cross-section AA indicated in fig. 1d of the lid-spout assembly 1. Fig. 2b: shows an enlarged view of a part of the cross section; and fig. 2c: shows a further enlarged view of a part of the cross section.
Fig. 2a illustrates that the coupling ring comprises a plurality of flap elements 30. The flap elements 30 interact with the collar 60. The spout assembly 50 further comprises a bottom attachment surface having annular fixing rings 51, 52 for fixing the lid-spout assembly 1 on the package.
Fig. 2a also illustrates a package seal 71 that seals the pouring outlet 55 of the collar 60. The package seal 71 is fixed to the spout assembly 50 prior to opening the lid 10 the first time. The package seal 71 is connected to the lid 10 via seal ribs 70. When the lid 10 is opened for the first time, the fixed connection between the package seal 71 and the spout assembly 50 is broken. When the lid 10 and package seal 71 are opened, the pouring outlet 55 is opened, and the pourable product can be poured out of the package.
Fig. 2a also illustrates the that the hinge element 12 comprises a flexible part 12b. The flexible part 12b can be elastically deformed during the pivoting of the lid 10 relative to the collar 60.
Fig. 2b and 2c illustrate in more detail the various components of the collar 60 and the flap elements 30. The collar 60 extends in a longitudinal direction of the collar 60 and coupling ring 20, which in the figures is the vertical direction. An outer surface 62 of the collar 60 is the radially outward surface of the collar 60. An inner surface 61 of the collar 60 is the radially inward surface of the collar 60. A first ridge 65 and a second ridge 66 protrude from the outer surface 62 of the collar. The first 65 and second ridge 66 are axially displaced from each other. In this context, axially is seen in the axial diction of the collar 60, which corresponds with the axial direction of the first 65 and second ridge 66, thus in these figures being the vertical direction. The first ridge 65 is closer to the lid 10 than the second ridge 66 (when the lid 10 is in the closed position). The first 65 and second ridge 66 are annular ridges. The first 65 and second ridge 66 are continuous ridges.
The first ridge 65 comprises a lower surface 65a and an outer surface 65b. In this context, "upper" and "lower" are defined in the vertical direction as shown in the figures. Thus, upper is closer to the lid 10 than lower. The first ridge 65 extends a first ridge distance 651 from the outer surface 62 of the collar 60. Thus, the outer surface 65b is arranged at the first ridge distance 651 from the outer surface 62.
The second ridge 66 comprises an upper surface 66a, an outer surface 66b, and a lower surface 66c. The second ridge 66 extends a second ridge distance 661 from the outer surface 62 of the collar 60. Thus, the outer surface 66b is arranged at the second ridge distance 661 from the outer surface 62.
A groove 67 is defined between the lower surface 65a of the first ridge 65 and the upper surface 66a of the second ridge 66. The groove 66 is delimited by an end surface 67a, which is part of the outer surface 62 of the collar 60. The groove 67 has a width 671 which is defined in axial direction between the lower surface 65a of the first ridge 65 and the upper surface 66a of the second ridge 66.
The flap elements 30 extend from an inner surface 21 of the coupling ring 20. The flap elements 30 comprise a proximal portion 31, a middle portion 32, and a distal portion 33. In fig. 2c, dotted line 301 shows the border between the proximal portion 31 and the middle portion 32. Dotted line 302 illustrates the border between the middle portion 32 and the distal portion 33.
The proximal portion 31 is attached to the inner surface 21 of the coupling ring 20. It can be seen that the proximal portion 31 comprises a curved portion. This allows the flap element 30 to have a spring function, being able to move relative to the coupling ring 20. The spring function is achieved by the fact that the flap element 30 can be elastically deformed by the user, due to the curved portion in the proximal portion.
The middle portion 32 extends between the proximal portion 31 and the distal portion 33. A longitudinal axis of the middle portion 32 extends in a middle portion direction 321. The middle portion 32 extends from the proximal portion 31 into a direction towards the lid, partially radially inwards and partially upwards (in the shown configuration).
The distal portion 33 has a longitudinal axis extending in a distal portion direction 331. The distal portion direction 331 extends at a non-straight angle to the middle portion direction 321. In the shown example, the distal portion direction 331 extends at an angle of approximately 90 degrees the middle portion direction 321. The distal portion 33 is arranged in the groove 67. An upper abutment surface 33a of the distal portion 33 is configured to abut the lower surface 65a of the first ridge 65. An end abutment surface 33c of the distal portion 33 is configured to abut the end surface 67a of the groove 57. A lower abutment surface 33b of the distal portion 33 is configured to abut the upper surface 66a of the second ridge 66.
The contact between the upper abutment surface 33a and the lower surface 65a of the first ridge 65 defines a relatively large contact surface. This in turn results in a relatively large contact force. The contact force keeps the coupling ring 20 in place when the lid is being opened. By increasing this force, it is harder for a user to remove the lid and coupling ring 20 from the spout assembly.
It can further be seen that a width 333 of the distal portion 33 is smaller than a width 671 of the groove 67. This allows some movability in axial direction of the flap element 30 (and thus the coupling ring 20) relative to the collar 60. A user can move the flap element 30 such that the contact between the upper abutment surface 33a and the lower surface 65a of the first ridge 65 is no longer present. The contact force is as such reduced, making it easier for the user to rotate the lid relative to the collar 60. This can be advantageous to position the lid as desired.
The distal portion 33 extends by an end distance 332 from the middle portion 32 into the distal portion direction 331. The end distance is 332 greater than the second ridge distance 661 that the second ridge 66 protrudes from the outer surface 62 of the collar 60. This has the advantage that the flap element 30 does not come into contact with the outer surface 66b of the second ridge 66. In fact, the distal portion 33 prevents contact between the middle portion 32 and the second ridge 66. This further reduces the contact surface and contact force between the flap element 30 and the collar 60. This thus makes easier for the user to rotate the lid relative to the collar 60. Fig. 2c further illustrates that the first ridge distance 651 is greater than the second ridge distance 661. This is advantageous to have a relatively large contact surface between the upper abutment surface 33a and the lower surface 65a of the first ridge 65, while at the same time avoiding contact between the middle portion 32 and the second ridge 66.
Fig. 2b-2c further illustrate that the lid assembly may comprise a secondary flap element 34. The secondary flap element 34 extends from the inner surface 21 of the coupling ring, and engage the collar 60 below the second ridge 66. In particular, the secondary flap element 34 engages a lower surface 66c of the second ridge 66.
Fig. 2a illustrates that the lid assembly further comprises a sealing ring 15. The sealing ring 15 extends from the lid 10 in axial direction when the lid is in the closed position. The sealing ring 15 engages an upper part of the innersurface 61 of the collar 60 when the lid 10 is in the closed position. The sealing ring 15 has an annular shape and is a continuous ring. Advantageously, the sealing ring 15 provides an additional sealing when the lid 10 is closed, reducing the likelihood of the pourable product leaking out the lid-spout assembly 1.
The sealing ring 15 comprises a straight section 15a and a curved section 15b. The straight section 15a extends from the lid 10, the curved section 15b extends from the straight section 15a.
Fig. 2b illustrates that the coupling ring 20 comprises closing element 25 that engages with the collar 60 to maintain the lid 10 in the closed position. When the user pulls on handle 11, the closing element 25 is disengages, and the lid 10 can be opened.
Fig. 3a-3b illustrates a lid assembly 1 from below, with the lid 10 and the coupling ring 20. The coupling ring 20 comprises a plurality of flap elements 30, which together form a flap 39.
Fig. 3c illustrates a spout assembly, showing four seal ribs 70 that are connected to the package seal 71. The seal ribs 70 are connected to the lid, and will the package seal 71 to open when the lid is opened. The pouring outlet 55 is then open, such that the pourable product can be poured out of the package.
As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are described herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the invention, which may be embodied in various ways. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to practice the present invention in various ways in virtually any suitable detailed structure. Not all of the objectives described need be achieved with particular embodiments.
Furthermore, the terms and expressions used herein are not intended to limit the invention, but to provide an understandable description of the invention. The words "a", "an", or "one" used herein mean one or more than one, unless otherwise indicated. The terms "a multiple of", "a plurality" or "several" mean two or more than two. The words "comprise", "include", "contain" and "have" have an open meaning and do not exclude the presence of additional elements. Reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the invention.
The mere fact that certain technical features are described in different dependent claims still allows the possibility that a combination of these technical measures can be used advantageously.
A single processor or other unit can perform the functions of various components mentioned in the description and claims, e.g. of processing units or control units, or the functionality of a single processing unit or control unit described herein can in practice be distributed over multiple components, optionally physically separated of each other. Any communication between components can be wired or wireless by known methods.
The actions performed by the control unit can be implemented as a program, for example computer program, software application, or the like. The program can be executed using computer readable instructions. The program may include a subroutine, a function, a procedure, an object method, an object implementation, an executable application, a source code, an object code, a shared library / dynamic load library and / or other set of instructions designed for execution on a computer system.
A computer program or computer-readable instructions can be stored and / or distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid-state medium supplied with or as part of other hardware, but can also be distributed in other forms, such as via internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems.

Claims

A lid-spout assembly (1) for a package for a pourable product; wherein the lid-spout assembly comprises:
• a collar (60) comprising a pouring outlet (55) and an outer surface (61);

• a coupling ring (20) arranged around the collar;

• a lid (10) connected to the coupling ring, wherein the lid is configured to be moveable between
• an open position wherein the pouring outlet is opened; and

• a closed position wherein the pouring outlet is closed;

wherein the collar comprises:
• a first ridge (65) protruding from the outer surface of the collar;

• a second ridge (66) protruding by a second ridge distance (661) from the outer surface of the collar and being axially displaced from the first ridge;

• a groove (67) defined between a lower surface (65a) of the first ridge and an upper surface (66a) of the second ridge;
wherein the coupling ring comprises:
• an inner surface (21) facing the outer surface of the collar;

• a plurality of flap elements (30), wherein each flap element comprises a proximal portion (31), a middle portion (32), and a distal portion (33); wherein:
∘ the proximal portion is attached to the inner surface of the coupling ring,

∘ the middle portion extends between the proximal portion and the distal portion, wherein a longitudinal axis of the middle portion extends in a middle portion direction (321),

∘ the distal portion is configured to be arranged in the groove, wherein
▪ an upper abutment surface (33a) of the distal portion is configured to abut the lower surface of the first ridge,

▪ an end abutment surface (33c) of the distal portion is configured to abut an end surface of the groove,

▪ a longitudinal axis of the distal portion extends in a distal portion direction (331), wherein the distal portion direction extends at a non-straight angle from the middle portion direction,

▪ wherein the distal portion extends by an end distance (332) from the middle portion into the distal portion direction, wherein the end distance is greater than the second ridge distance that the second ridge protrudes from the outer surface of the collar.
Lid-spout assembly according to claim 1, wherein the distal portion is configured to prevent contact between the middle portion and the second ridge.
Lid-spout assembly according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein a width (333) of the distal portion is smaller than a width (671) of the groove, when seen in axial direction of the coupling ring.
Lid-spout assembly according to claim 3, wherein a lower abutment surface (33b) of the distal portion is configured to abut the upper surface of the second ridge, wherein the distal portion is configured to allow axial displacement of the coupling ring relative to the collar.
Lid-spout assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the flap elements are elastically movable relative to the coupling ring.
Lid-spout assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first ridge protrudes by a first ridge distance (651) from the outer surface of the collar, wherein the first ridge distance is greater than the second ridge distance.
Lid-spout assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the flap elements extend from the inner surface of the coupling ring in the direction towards the lid.
Lid-spout assembly according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a sealing ring (15) extending from the lid in axial direction of the coupling ring when the lid is in the closed position, wherein the sealing ring is configured to engage an inner surface (61) of the collar when the lid is in the closed position.
Lid-spout assembly according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a hinge element (12), wherein the hinge element connects the lid to the coupling ring and is configured to allow the lid to be hinged relative to the coupling ring for arranging the lid from the closed position to the open position or vice versa.
Lid-spout assembly according to claim 9, wherein the hinge element defines a hinge axis (12a), wherein hinge axis extends tangent to a circumference of the collar.
Lid-spout assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the flap elements are distributed regularly over the coupling ring.
Lid-spout assembly according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a flap, wherein the flap comprises the flap elements.
Lid-spout assembly according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a plurality of rupturable elements (27), each connected to the lid and the coupling ring, wherein the rupturable elements are configured to be ruptured a first time the lid is moved from the closed position into the open position.
A package for a a pourable product, comprising a lid-spout assembly according to any of the preceding claims.
A lid assembly for a lid-spout assembly, the lid assembly comprising:
• a coupling ring configured to be arranged around a collar, said collar comprising:
• a pouring outlet,

• an outer surface,

• a first ridge protruding from the outer surface of the collar;

• a second ridge protruding by a second ridge distance from the outer surface of the collar and being axially displaced from the first ridge;

• a groove defined between a lower surface of the first ridge and an upper surface of the second ridge;

• a lid connected to the coupling ring, wherein the lid is configured to be moveable between
• an open position wherein the pouring outlet is opened; and

• a closed position wherein the pouring outlet is closed;

wherein the coupling ring comprises:
• an inner surface configured to face the outer surface of the collar;

• a plurality of flap elements, wherein each flap element comprises a proximal portion, a middle portion, and a distal portion; wherein:
∘ the proximal portion is attached to the inner surface of the coupling ring,

∘ the middle portion extends between the proximal portion to the distal portion, wherein a longitudinal axis of the middle portion extends in a middle portion direction,

∘ the distal portion is configured to be arranged in the groove, wherein
▪ an upper abutment surface of the distal portion is configured to abut the lower surface of the first ridge,

▪ an end abutment surface of the distal portion is configured to abut an end surface of the groove,

▪ a longitudinal axis of the distal portion extends in a distal portion direction, wherein the distal portion direction extends at a non-straight angle from the middle portion direction,

▪ wherein the distal portion extends by an end distance from the middle portion into the distal portion direction, wherein the first distance is greater than the second ridge distance that the second ridge protrudes from the outer surface of the collar.