EP4368533A1

EP4368533A1 - Cap for a fluid-storing container

Info

Publication number: EP4368533A1
Application number: EP22207067.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: designation of the inventor has not yet been filed The
Original assignee: Syngenta Crop Protection AG Switzerland
Current assignee: Syngenta Crop Protection AG Switzerland
Priority date: 2022-11-11
Filing date: 2022-11-11
Publication date: 2024-05-15

Abstract

There is provided a cap 2 for a fluid storing container 1. The cap is generally annular in shape. The cap comprises:
an outer wall 21 defining an axial bore B, the outer wall 21 providing a first opening 211 at one end of the axial bore B and a second opening 212 at the other end of the axial bore B, the outer wall 21 having an internal thread 216 configured to engage with an external thread 13 of a neck 12 of a fluid-storing container 1 when the neck 12 is inserted into the second opening 212; and
an inner portion 23 extending from the outer wall 21 within the axial bore B, the inner portion 23 being radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall 21 such that the neck 12 of the container 1 is receivable in a space between the inner portion 23 and the outer wall 21;
at least one holding thread 241 which protrudes into the space between the inner portion 23 and the outer wall 21 such that an annular liner 5 is receivable in the space between the inner portion 23 and the outer wall 21 of the cap 2, and axially between the at least one holding thread 241 and an axial end of the space between the inner portion 23 and the outer wall 21 of the cap 2, the at least one holding thread 241 having the same pitch as the internal thread 216 on the outer wall 21 of the cap 2.

Description

This invention relates generally to a fluid-storing container assembly. More specifically, although not exclusively, this invention relates to a cap for a cap assembly for a fluid-storing container.
Fluid-storing containers for transporting agrochemicals, for example pesticides, herbicides and fertilisers, must be handled with care due to the agrochemicals potentially being toxic. Therefore, it is beneficial that, when accessing the agrochemicals stored in the container, there is minimum human handling, and that any human handling is performed with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Clearly this is challenging, as handling fluids generally requires intricate handling of the containers and associated cap, for example when opening the container, and PPE is usually bulky, leading to diminished dexterity. Furthermore, due to the potential toxicity of the agrochemicals, and the high cost thereof, it is important that evidence of tampering of the cap which closes the container, is visible and is difficult to avoid when accessing the contents of the container. Of course, it is also highly desirable that risks of leaks from the container are minimised, that all of the contents of the container are obtainable from the container for use, and that the risks of contamination of the contents of the container are minimised.
WO2018034567 goes some way to address some of these problems. In WO2018034567 a cap assembly is provided to close the container. The cap assembly has a female part which is annular in shape, and which has an internal thread at one end which is engageable with an external thread of the container. The cap assembly has a plug which is engageable within the axial bore of the female portion, which closes the container in a fluid-tight manner. Clearly it is important that this plug is robustly engaged with the female part, to ensure fluid-tightness, and incorrect fitting, or wear to the plug, can cause leaks.
The female part has an engagement part at an end opposite to the internal thread. The engagement part is engageable with a coupling assembly of a sprayer, and, when engaged with the coupling assembly, a male probe is insertable through the axial bore of the female part to engage with the plug, and to push the plug out of fluid-tight engagement with the female part and into the container. Fluid in the container is then able to flow around the plug and the male probe and into the sprayer, for use in spraying operations. Sometimes not all of the agrochemical is used, and so it is necessary to re-engage the plug with the female part. As before, it is important that this re-engagement is fluid-tight, and repeated disengagement and engagement is likely to wear the plug and/or the female part, which can lead to leaking.
In order to reduce the risk of contamination to the agrochemicals, the cap assembly of WO2018034567 has a cover which is attached to the engagement portion of the female part when the cap assembly is not attached to a sprayer. However, re-attachment of the cover to the female part can be difficult and insecure and can lead to the plug being disengaged from the female part, or the dust cap being pushed back out of the female part, due to an overpressure build-up between the cover and the plug.
The cover, and the female part on the side of the internal thread, have tamper-evidence portions so that removal of the cover from the female part, or removal of the cap assembly from the bottle, leaves evidence of tampering. However, as with all caps for containers, these tamper evident portions are prone to incorrect operation and manipulation, which can lead to the contents of the container being accessed without leaving evidence of tampering.
Clearly, the complexities of this cap assembly mean that the components are complicated to injection mould. Furthermore, due to engagement at both ends of the female part, one with the container and one with the sprayer or cover, there are inevitable undercuts which need to be moulded, which require complex moulding inserts.
Furthermore, there are challenges with known cap assemblies due to tangling of adjacent cap assemblies, for example in automated filling machines. This can lead to damage to the engagement between the cover and female part, as well as filling machine down-time.
It would therefore be advantageous to overcome at least some of these limitations.
According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided cap for a fluid-storing container, the cap comprising:

an outer wall defining an axial bore, the outer wall having an internal thread configured to engage with an external thread of a neck of the fluid-storing container;
a tamper-evident band connected to an edge of the outer wall, the tamper evident band comprising:
- a first band portion connected to the edge of the outer wall to further define the axial bore; and
- a second band portion connected to the first band portion by a living hinge, the second band portion being foldable about the living hinge between a folded position, in which the second band portion is located inside of the axial bore, and an unfolded position, in which the second band portion is located outside of the axial bore,
wherein the second band portion is divided, around the circumference thereof, into a first portion and a second portion, each first and second portion having a respective axial length which is a distance from the living hinge to a free end of the respective first or second portion, the axial length of the first portion being greater than the axial length of the second portion, the second band portion comprising at least one tooth which extends into the axial bore from the second portion when the second band portion is in the folded position, each of the at least one tooth having a sloped surface, an abutment surface and an apex between the sloped surface and the abutment surface, wherein the axial length of the first portion is greater than the distance between the living hinge and the abutment surface of the at least one tooth,

Advantageously, when the cap is unscrewed from the container, axial movement of the cap, away from the shoulder of the container, is resisted by abutment of the abutment surface of the at least one tooth against the axial surface of the shoulder and unfolding of the second band portion from the axial bore of the radially outer wall of the cap is resisted by abutment of the first portion of the second band portion against the radial outer surface of the shoulder. Accordingly, continued unscrewing of the cap causes the second band portion to unfold, causing visible damage to the second band portion. This mode of damage to the tamper-evident band is difficult to avoid, due to the aforementioned abutments with the shoulder of the container. It is also possible that the teeth can extend radially inwardly by a greater amount than abutting feature sin know tamper-evident bands, due to the second band portion being foldable about the living hinge. This means that there might be more flexibility in the tamper-evident band when the cap is first screwed onto the container, as the teeth are more able to deflect out of the way to pass over the shoulder. Larger teeth would further reduce the likelihood that the cap is removable form the bottle without leaving evidence of tampering.
The cap also has advantages in relation to the ability to injection mould the cap. For example, the tamper-evident band can be moulded in the unfolded configuration, such that the teeth are not facing radially inwardly, which might necessitate the moulding of internal undercuts. Furthermore, the teeth and the second band portion can be moulded with the same thickness, to improve mould filling.
Further advantageously, the cap is usable with a container which has at least one slot, or recess, at or proximal the shoulder, such that the at least one tooth is receivable in a corresponding one of the at least one slot to constrain the tamper-evident band in a circumferential direction.
In embodiments the second band portion is divided, around the circumference thereof, into at least two first portions, for example three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten first portions, and at least two second portions, for example three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten second portions. The first and second portions may alternate around the circumference of the second band portion. At least one tooth may extend into the axial bore from each of the second portions when the second band portion is in the folded position.
A plurality of teeth, for example two, three, four, five or six teeth, may extend from the or each second portion of the second band portion. The plurality of teeth may be equally spaced along the respective second portion.
The connection between the first band portion of the tamper evident band and the outer wall may comprise a weakened line around the circumference of the outer wall and tamper-evident band. This weakened line may comprise perforations or thinned material. The connection between the first band portion of the tamper evident band and the outer wall may comprise a plurality of perforations, for example perforations between breakable strips of material. The perforations may be formed in a line around the circumference of the outer wall and tamper-evident band to form a perforated connection therebetween. The strips of material, or the weakened line, may be configured to break when the outer wall is pulled away from the tamper-evident band with a specific force.
Advantageously, the weakened line or the perforated connection might break when unscrewing the cap assembly from the container, thereby providing evidence of tamper, and if the weakened line or perforated connection does not break then the tamper evident band will unfold, also providing evidence of tamper. The possibility of multiple modes of damage further reduces the likelihood that the cap is removable from the container without leaving evidence of tampering. Further advantageously, the one or more teeth of the tamper evident band is receivable in a respective one or more groove in the container neck, thereby forcing the weakened line or the perforated line to break when unscrewing the cap assembly.
In embodiments the cap is generally annular in shape. The cap may have a first opening at one end of the axial bore. The cap may have a second opening at the other end of the axial bore. The internal thread of the cap may be configured to engage with the external thread of the neck of the fluid-storing container when the neck is inserted into the second opening.
The cap may be a base cap. The base cap may be comprised in a cap assembly. The cap assembly may comprise a dust cap. The dust cap may have a body portion. The body portion may be configured to close the first opening of the base cap. The dust cap may have an engagement and/or a securing portion. The engagement and/or securing portion may be configured to engage with the base cap to removably secure the dust cap to the base cap.
Advantageously, the provision of a dust cap may prevent or reduce contamination of the inside of the base cap.
The securing portion of the dust cap may extend from a major surface of the body portion. The securing portion may be annular in shape. A radially outer surface of the securing portion may be configured to engage with an inner surface of the outer wall of the base cap when the securing portion of the dust cap is inserted into the axial bore of the base cap through the first opening.
In embodiments the radially outer surface of the securing portion of the dust cap comprises at least one vent, for example to permit gas to egress from the axial bore of the base cap during insertion of the dust cap into the base cap.
Advantageously, an overpressure may be avoided when the dust cap is inserted into the base cap, which may make insertion of the dust cap easier, and prevent the dust cap from lifting out of the base cap after insertion.
In embodiments the securing portion of the dust cap comprises an abutment band which forms a part of the radially outer surface of the securing portion. The abutment band may be configured to abut the inner surface of the outer wall of the base cap. The at least one vent may be a channel or groove extending through the abutment band. The at least one vent may be a channel or groove extending through the abutment band in the axial direction of the dust cap. The at least one vent may be a hole extending through the abutment band. The at least one vent may be a hole extending through the abutment band in the axial direction of the dust cap.
In embodiments the second band portion is divided, around the circumference thereof, into at least two first portions and at least two second portions, the first and second portions alternating around the circumference of the second band portion, and wherein at least one tooth extends into the axial bore from each of the second portions when the second band portion is in the folded position. In embodiments the dust cap has a peripheral portion which surrounds the periphery of the body portion and which has an outer diameter equal to that of a circle intersecting a position on the sloped surface of the at least one tooth on each of the second portions when the second band portion is in the folded position. In other words, when the second band portion is in the folded position a circle which intersects the sloped surfaces of at least two of the teeth, proximal the apexes, may have a diameter of D1. When the second band portion is in the folded position a circle which intersects the sloped surfaces of at least two of the teeth, proximal the living hinge, may have a diameter of D2. A peripheral portion of the dust cap, which surrounds the periphery of the body portion, may have an outer diameter which is greater than D1 and which is less than D2.
Advantageously, this means that, when the dust caps are secured to the base caps in two or more cap assemblies, and the two or more cap assemblies are stacked, the ring pull may be prevented from entering the axial bore of the base cap of the adjacent cap assembly by abutment between the ring pull of one cap assembly and the teeth of the adjacent cap assembly. This reduces the risk of tangling of the stacked cap assemblies, which reduces complexities of transporting the cap assemblies and reduces the risk of damage to the cap assemblies during transportation.
In embodiments the outer wall of the base cap has at least one first radial engagement feature.
The dust cap may comprise a lifting portion. The lifting portion may extend from a periphery of the body portion. The dust cap may comprise the or an at least one engagement portion. The dust cap may comprise two engagement portions. The at least one engagement portion may comprise at least one second radial engagement feature. The at least one second radial engagement feature may be configured to engage with the at least one first radial engagement feature of the outer wall of the base cap, for example to secure the dust cap to the base cap. The dust cap may comprise a joining portion. The joining portion may connect the at least one engagement portion to the body portion. The joining portion may extend from the periphery of the body portion. The at least one engagement portion may extend around the periphery of the body portion. The at least one engagement portion may be spaced from the periphery of the body portion. Two engagement portions may be location on either side of the body portion, for example radially opposing one another. One end of each of the at least one engagement portion may be connected, for example be continuous with, the lifting portion. One end of each of the at least one engagement portion may be connected, for example be continuous with, the lifting portion. There may be two engagement portions. The two engagement portions may be radially opposite to one another, with respect to the body portion. Each of the at least one engagement portion may extend between the lifting portion and the joining portion. The dust cap may comprise a plurality of breakable bridges. The plurality of breakable bridges may connect each of the at least one engagement portion to the body portion. When the dust cap is secured to the base cap and when the plurality of breakable bridges are unbroken, the plurality of breakable bridges may maintain the relative position between the engagement portion and the body portion. When the dust cap is secured to the base cap and when the plurality of breakable bridges are unbroken, the plurality of breakable bridges may maintain the relative position between the engagement portion and the body portion to the extent that engagement between the at least one first radial engagement feature and the at least one second radial engagement feature is maintained. The plurality of breakable bridges may be configured to be broken when a lifting force is applied to the lifting portion. The plurality of breakable bridges may be configured to be broken when a lifting force is applied to the lifting portion such that the relative position between at least part of the engagement portion and the body portion is variable and the dust cap can be disengaged from the base cap.
In embodiments the dust cap comprises a gripping portion. The gripping portion may comprise a strip of material which extends around, the periphery of the at least one engagement portion. The gripping portion may comprise a strip of material which is spaced from the periphery of the at least one engagement portion. The gripping portion may be connected, at either end or both ends, to the lifting portion.
Advantageously the gripping portion may provide a ring-pull which is easy for a user to grip. The gripping portion may be easy to grip whilst wearing PPE, specifically gloves.
The plurality of breakable bridges may be a first plurality of breakable bridges. The dust cap may comprise a second plurality of breakable bridges. The second plurality of breakable bridges may connect the gripping portion to the at least one engagement portion. When an opening force is applied to the gripping portion at a position away from the lifting portion the breakable bridges of the second plurality of breakable bridges may be configured to break. When an opening force is applied to the gripping portion at a position away from the lifting portion the breakable bridges of the second plurality of breakable bridges may be configured to break before the breakable bridges of the first plurality of breakable bridges.
Advantageously the second plurality of breakable bridges may retain the gripping portion in a position in which it is unlikely to be damaged or snagged. This may be beneficial during transportation and storage.
The gripping portion of the dust cap may be the peripheral portion which surrounds the periphery of the body portion, and which has an outer diameter equal to that of a circle intersecting a position on the sloped surface of the at least one tooth on each of the second portions when the second band portion is in the folded position.
In embodiments the base cap comprises a coupling portion extending from the outer wall within the axial bore. The coupling portion may comprise an overhang protruding radially inwardly. The coupling portion may provide a plug seat on an axial side of the overhang facing the second opening. The coupling portion may be radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall. The coupling portion may be radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall such that the neck of the container is receivable between the coupling portion and the outer wall.
In embodiments the cap assembly comprises a plug. The plug may comprise a body portion. The plug may comprise a sealing ring around the periphery of the body portion. The sealing ring may have a sealing surface on one axial side thereof. The plug may comprise at least one snap connector, for example extending from the sealing surface of the sealing ring. The plug may be engageable with the base cap in a sealed configuration. The plug may be engageable with the base cap in a sealed configuration in which the plug provides a fluid-, or liquid-, tight seal with the base cap. The plug may be engageable with the base cap in a sealed configuration in which the plug provides a fluid-, or liquid-, tight seal with the base cap to close the axial bore of the base cap. In the sealed configuration, the at least one snap connector may be engaged with the overhang of the coupling portion. For example, the at least one snap connector being configured to elastically deflect radially inwardly to pass over the overhang of the coupling portion of the base cap when the plug is inserted into the axial bore of the base cap. In the sealed configuration the sealing surface of the sealing ring may abuts the plug seat of the overhang of the coupling portion. The plug may comprise at least one coupler snap connector, for example extending from the sealing surface of the sealing ring. The at least one coupler snap connector may be configured to engage with a connection end of a male probe of an agrochemical distribution system.
The dust cap may comprise a connection portion. The connection portion may extend from a major surface of the body portion. The connection portion may be configured to engage with the at least one snap connector of the plug. The connection portion may be configured to engage with the at least one snap connector of the plug when the plug is inserted, through the second opening, into the axial bore of the base cap and when the dust cap is inserted, through the first opening, into the axial bore of the base cap.
Advantageously, the plug and the dust cap may mutually increase the security of the fixing of one another within the base cap.
The or each snap connector may comprise a distal end, the distal end being at the opposite end of the respective snap connector to a major surface of the body portion or to the sealing surface of the plug. Any number of the snap connectors may have a first engagement feature extending along a circumferential direction of plug. The first engagement features may be proximal the distal end of the respective snap connector.
The connection portion of the dust cap may have a distal end, the distal end being at the opposite end of the connection portion to the major surface of the body portion of the dust cap. A radially outer surface of the connection portion may comprise a connection feature proximal the distal end. The connection feature may extend along a circumferential direction of the dust cap.
The first engagement feature may be a depression, for example a channel or a groove. The connection feature may be a protrusion which is receivable in the depression. The connection feature may be a depression, for example a channel or groove. The first engagement feature may be a protrusion which is receivable in the depression.
Engagement between the connection portion of the dust cap and the or each snap connector of the plug may be provided by engagement between the first engagement feature of the plug and the connection feature of the connection portion of the dust cap.
Advantageously, the engagement between the connection portion of the dust cap and the or each snap connector of the plug may be easily established via insertion of the protrusion into the depression.
The coupling portion of the base cap may comprise a skirt portion. The skirt portion may define an open end of the coupling portion. The skirt portion may have a substantially frustoconical radially inner surface.
The coupling portion of the base cap may comprise an overhang. The overhang may protrude radially inwardly at an end of the skirt portion. The overhang may protrude radially inwardly at an end of the skirt portion opposite to the open end of the coupling portion. An axial side of the overhang may face the open end of the coupling portion. The axial side of the overhang may provide a plug seat.
The radially inner surface may have an internal diameter at the open end of the coupling portion which is greater than the internal diameter at the end adjacent the overhang.
The plug may comprise a sealing portion extending from a peripheral edge of the sealing ring. The plug may comprise a sealing portion extending from a peripheral edge of the sealing ring in a radially outward direction. The plug may comprise a sealing portion extending from a peripheral edge of the sealing ring in an axial direction away from the sealing surface.
In the sealed configuration, the sealing portion of the plug may be urged radially inwardly by abutment with the radially inner surface of the skirt portion of the base cap.
Advantageously, the frustoconical shape of the skirt portion and the shape of the sealing portion of the plug may provide a more robust seal, due to the radially inward urging of the sealing portion.
The plug seat of the base cap may be substantially normal to the axial direction of the base cap. The sealing surface of the plug may be substantially normal to the axial direction of plug.
The least one snap connector of the plug may comprise a plurality of snap connectors which are arranged in a generally annular shape.
The body portion of the plug may have a central portion and a peripheral portion. The peripheral portion may extend between the central portion and the sealing ring. The peripheral portion may extend from the sealing ring in both a radially inward direction and an axial direction away from the sealing surface.
Advantageously, the shape of the body portion may reduce the capacity of a recess, or cavity, formed by the body portion, meaning that less of the agrochemical is retained in the body portion of the plug, during use.
The base cap may comprise an inner portion, for example a or the coupling portion, extending from the outer wall within the axial bore. The inner portion may be radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall. The inner portion may be radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall such that the neck of the container is receivable in a space between the inner portion and the outer wall.
The base cap may comprise at least one holding thread. The at least one holding thread may protrude into the space between the inner portion and the outer wall. The at least one holding thread may protrude into the space between the inner portion and the outer wall such that an annular liner is receivable in the space between the inner portion and the outer wall of the base cap, and axially between the at least one holding thread and an axial end of the space between the inner portion and the outer wall of the base cap. The at least one holding thread may have the same pitch as the internal thread on the outer wall of the base cap. That is, if the at least one holding thread were extended to multiple full rotations, around 360°, the pitch between the full rotations would be the same pitch as the internal thread on the outer wall of the base cap.
The cap assembly may comprise an or the annular liner. The cap assembly may comprise an or the annular liner located or locatable in the space between the inner portion and the outer wall of the base cap, and axially between the at least one holding thread and an axial end of the space between the inner portion and the outer wall of the base cap.
The at least one holding thread may protrude from a radially outer surface of the inner portion of the base cap. The at least one holding thread may be a plurality of holding threads which are equally spaced around the circumference of the inner portion of the base cap.
Advantageously, the holding threads may enable simple injection moulding of the base cap because, once the thermoplastic used to injection mould base cap has solidified sufficiently to remove a moulding insert from the base cap, the moulding insert can simply be rotated out of the base cap effectively unscrewing the moulding insert along the holding threads. This means that the moulding insert need not pass over the holding thread, thereby deforming the holding threads and/or the coupling portion, which could potentially damage them.
According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a fluid storing container assembly comprising:

the aforementioned cap assembly or a cap assembly comprising the aforementioned cap where the cap is a base cap; and
a fluid-storing container, the fluid-storing container comprising:
- a fluid opening;
- a neck surrounding the fluid opening;
- an external thread located on the neck; and
- a shoulder located at an end of the external thread such that the external thread is between the fluid opening and the shoulder,
wherein, when the second band portion is in the folded position and the internal thread of the base cap is progressively engaged with the external thread of the fluid-storing container, the sloped surface of each of the at least one tooth travels over the shoulder on the neck of the fluid-storing container until the apex of the tooth passes the shoulder such that the abutment surface of the at least one tooth faces an axial surface of the shoulder, and a face of the first portion of the second band portion faces a radially outer surface of the shoulder.

The neck of the container may comprise one or more slot for receiving the one or more tooth of the tamper-evident band of the base cap.
According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided an injection moulding tool for moulding the aforementioned cap, wherein the cap is a base cap, or for moulding the base cap of the aforementioned cap assembly, the injection moulding tool comprising a threaded core, the threaded core comprising thread shape for moulding the internal thread of the base cap and an undercut, the undercut configured to provide a moulding surface to mould the second band portion in the unfolded position with the sloped surface of the at least one tooth being substantially parallel to an outside surface of the outer wall of the base cap, such that removal of the threaded core from the moulded base cap causes the second band portion to pivot in a radially outward direction, about the living hinge.
According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a cap assembly for a fluid storing container, the cap assembly comprising:

a base cap being generally annular in shape and comprising:
an outer wall defining an axial bore, the outer wall providing a first opening at one end of the axial bore and a second opening at the other end of the axial bore, the outer wall having an internal thread configured to engage with an external thread of a neck of a fluid-storing container when the neck is inserted into the second opening, the outer wall having at least one first radial engagement feature;
a dust cap comprising:
- a body portion configured to close the first opening of the base cap;
- a lifting portion extending from a periphery of the body portion;
- an engagement portion with at least one second radial engagement feature configured to engage with the at least one first radial engagement feature of the outer wall of the base cap to secure the dust cap to the base cap,
- a joining portion connecting the engagement portion to the body portion, the joining portion extending from the periphery of the body portion, wherein the engagement portion extends around, and is spaced from, the periphery of the body portion, and extends between the lifting portion and the joining portion;
- a plurality of breakable bridges connecting the engagement portion to the body portion,

Advantageously, tampering is evident from the top of the cap assembly when the cap assembly is attached to a container and the container is stored upright, or tampering is evident from the front of the cap assembly when the cap assembly is attached to a container and the container or on a side, both of which are common ways to store containers. Further advantageously, the dust cap is mouldable using two mould halves only, as the breakable bridges extend in a radial direction.
The joining portion may be on a radially opposite side of the body portion to the lifting portion.
Two engagement portions may be location on either side of the body portion, for example radially opposing one another. Each of the at least one engagement portion may be connected at one end to the lifting portion. Each of the at least one engagement portion may be connected at one end, for example the other end, to the joining portion. Each of the at least one engagement portion may extend between the lifting portion and the joining portion. The plurality of breakable bridges may connect each of the at least one engagement portion to the body portion.
The dust cap further comprises a gripping portion. The gripping portion may comprise a strip of material which extends around the periphery of the at least one engagement portion. The gripping portion may comprise a strip of material which is spaced form the periphery of the at least one engagement portion. The gripping portion may be connected to the lifting portion. The gripping portion may be connected, at either end, to the lifting portion.
The plurality of breakable bridges may be a first plurality of breakable bridges. The dust cap may comprise a second plurality of breakable bridges connecting the gripping portion to the at least one engagement portion. When an opening force is applied to the gripping portion at a position away from the lifting portion, the breakable bridges of the second plurality of breakable bridges may be configured to break. When an opening force is applied to the gripping portion at a position away from the lifting portion, the breakable bridges of the second plurality of breakable bridges may be configured to break before the breakable bridges of the first plurality of breakable bridges.
Advantageously, the dust cap is mouldable using only two mould halves because both the first plurality of breakable bridges and the second plurality of breakable bridges are radially aligned. Furthermore, the second plurality of breakable bridges advantageously provides secondary tamper evidence. This secondary tamper evidence is advantageously visible from the top, when the container is stored upright, or the front, when the container is stored on its side.
The engagement portion may be connected to the lifting portion by a breakable connector. The breakable connector may be being configured to break when the lifting force is applied to the lifting portion. The breakable connector may be being configured to break before the plurality of breakable bridges, or the plurality of first breakable bridges, when the lifting force is applied to the lifting portion.
The first radial engagement feature may be located on a radially outer side of the outer wall of the base cap. The second radial engagement feature may be located on a radially inner side of the engagement portion of the dust cap.
The base cap may comprise an external shoulder which is axially spaced from the first opening. The at least one engagement portion of the dust cap may be generally arcuate in shape. The engagement portion of the dust cap may have at least one edge on the opposite end of the engagement portion to the body portion. The distance between the body portion of the dust cap and the at least one edge of the dust cap may be substantially the same as the axial distance between the external shoulder of the base cap to the first opening of the base cap.
Advantageously, the engagement portion abuts the shoulder when the dust cap is assembled with the base cap, making it difficult to pry the dust cap and the base cap apart. The dust cap may comprise a securing portion extending from the major surface of the body portion. The securing portion may be annular in shape. A radially outer surface of the securing portion may be configured to engage with an inner surface of the outer wall of the base cap. A radially outer surface of the securing portion may be configured to engage with an inner surface of the outer wall of the base cap when the securing portion of the dust cap is inserted into the axial bore of the base cap through the first opening.
The radially outer surface of the securing portion of the dust cap may comprise at least one vent. The least one vent may permit gas to egress from the axial bore of the base cap during insertion of the dust cap into the base cap.
The securing portion may comprise an abutment band. The abutment band may form a part of the radially outer surface of the securing portion. The abutment band may be configured to abut the inner surface of the outer wall of the base cap. The at least one vent may be a channel or groove extending through the abutment band. The at least one vent may be a channel or groove extending through the abutment band in the axial direction of the dust cap.
In embodiments the base cap comprises a coupling portion. The coupling portion may extend from the outer wall within the axial bore. The coupling portion may comprise an overhang protruding radially inwardly. The coupling portion may provide a plug seat on an axial side of the overhang facing the second opening. The coupling portion may be radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall. The coupling portion may be radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall such that the neck of the container is receivable between the coupling portion and the outer wall.
In embodiments the cap assembly further comprises a plug. The plug may comprise a body portion. The plug may comprise a sealing ring around the periphery of the body portion. The sealing ring may have a sealing surface on one axial side thereof. The plug may comprise at least one snap connector, for example extending from the sealing surface of the sealing ring. The plug may be engageable with the base cap in a sealed configuration. The plug may be engageable with the base cap in a sealed configuration in which the plug provides a fluid-, or liquid-, tight seal with the base cap to close the axial bore of the base cap. In the sealed configuration, the at least one snap connector may be engaged with the overhang of the coupling portion. In the sealed configuration the sealing surface of the sealing ring may abut the plug seat of the overhang of the coupling portion. The plug may comprise at least one coupler snap connector, for example extending from the sealing surface of the sealing ring. The at least one coupler snap connector may be configured to engage with a connection end of a male probe of an agrochemical distribution system.
The at least one snap connector may be configured to elastically deflect radially inwardly to pass over the overhang of the coupling portion when the plug is inserted into the axial bore of the base cap, such that the at least one snap connector engages with the overhang and such that an abutment surface of the plug abuts the plug seat of the overhang.
In embodiments the dust cap comprises a connection portion extending from a major surface of the body portion. The connection portion may be configured to engage with the at least one snap connector of the plug. The connection portion may be configured to engage with the at least one snap connector of the plug when the plug is inserted, through the second opening, into the axial bore of the base cap and when the dust cap is inserted, through the first opening, into the axial bore of the base cap.
The or each snap connector may comprise a distal end, the distal end being at the opposite end of the respective snap connector to the major surface of the body portion or to the sealing surface of the plug. Any number of the snap connectors may have a first engagement feature. The first engagement feature may extend in, or along, the circumferential direction of plug, proximal the distal end of the respective snap connector.
The connection portion of the dust cap may have a distal end, the distal end being at the opposite end of the connection portion to the major surface of the body portion of the dust cap. A radially outer surface of the connection portion may comprise a connection feature proximal the distal end. The connection feature may extending, or along, the circumferential direction of the dust cap.
Engagement between the connection portion of the dust cap and the or each snap connector of the plug may be provided by engagement between the first engagement feature of the plug and the connection feature of the connection portion of the dust cap.
Advantageously, the dust cap is securable into the base cap even after the bridges have been broken, via engagement with the plug.
In embodiments the base cap comprises a tamper-evident band. The tamper-evident band may be connected to an edge of the outer wall. The tamper evident band may comprise a first band portion connected to the edge of the outer wall to further define the axial bore. The tamper-evident band may comprise a second band portion connected to the first band portion by a living hinge. The second band portion may be foldable about the living hinge. The second band portion may be foldable about the living hinge between a folded position, in which the second band portion is located inside of the axial bore, and an unfolded position, in which the second band portion is located outside of the axial bore. The second band portion may be divided, around the circumference thereof, into a first portion and a second portion. Each first and second portion may have a respective axial length. Each first and second portion may have a respective axial length which is a distance from the living hinge to a free end of the respective first or second portion. The axial length of the first portion may be larger than the axial length of the second portion. The second band portion may comprise at least one tooth. The second band portion may comprise at least one tooth which extends into the axial bore from the second portion. The second band portion may comprise at least one tooth which extends into the axial bore from the second portion when the second band portion is in the folded position. Each of the at least one tooth may have a sloped surface. Each of the at least one tooth may have an abutment surface. Each of the at least one tooth may have an apex between the sloped surface and the abutment surface. The axial length of the first portion may be greater than the distance between the living hinge and the abutment surface of the at least one tooth.
The second band portion may be configured such that when the second band portion is in the folded position, as the base cap is progressively screwed onto the neck of the container the sloped surface of each of the at least one tooth travels over a shoulder on the neck of the container. The second band portion may be configured such that when the second band portion is in the folded position, as the base cap is progressively screwed onto the neck of the container the sloped surface of each of the at least one tooth travels over a shoulder on the neck of the container until the apex of the at least one tooth passes the shoulder such that the abutment surface of the at least one tooth faces an axial surface of the shoulder. The second band portion may be configured such that when the second band portion is in the folded position, as the base cap is progressively screwed onto the neck of the container the sloped surface of each of the at least one tooth travels over a shoulder on the neck of the container until the apex of the at least one tooth passes the shoulder such that a face of the first portion of the second band portion faces a radially outer surface of the shoulder.
This advantageously provides a second tamper evident feature, further to the tamper evident features of the base cap.
In embodiments the second band portion is divided, around the circumference thereof, into at least two first portions, for example three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten first portions, and at least two second portions, for example three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten second portions. The first and second portions may alternate around the circumference of the second band portion. At least one tooth may extend into the axial bore from each of the second portions when the second band portion is in the folded position.
A plurality of teeth, for example two, three, four, five or six teeth, may extend from the or each second portion of the second band portion. The plurality of teeth may be equally spaced along the respective second portion.
The connection between the first band portion of the tamper evident band and the outer wall may comprise a weakened line around the circumference of the outer wall and tamper-evident band. This weakened line may comprise perforations, or thinned material. The connection between the first band portion of the tamper evident band and the outer wall may comprise a plurality of perforations, for example perforations between breakable strips of material. The perforations may be formed in a line around the circumference of the outer wall and tamper-evident band to form a perforated connection therebetween. The strips of material or the weakened line may be configured to break when the outer wall is pulled away from the tamper-evident band with a specific force.
The second band portion may be is divided, around the circumference thereof, into at least two first portions and at least two second portions, the first and second portions alternating around the circumference of the second band portion, and wherein at least one tooth extends into the axial bore from each of the second portions when the second band portion is in the folded position. The dust cap may have a peripheral portion, for example the gripping portion, which surrounds the periphery of the body portion and which has an outer diameter equal to that of a circle intersecting a position on the sloped surface of the at least one tooth on each of the second portions when the second band portion is in the folded position. In other words, when the second band portion is in the folded position a circle which intersects the sloped surfaces of at least two of the teeth, proximal the apexes, may have a diameter of D1. When the second band portion is in the folded position a circle which intersects the sloped surfaces of at least two of the teeth, proximal the living hinge, may have a diameter of D2. A peripheral portion of the dust cap, which surrounds the periphery of the body portion, may have an outer diameter which is greater than D1 and which is less than D2.
According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a fluid storing container assembly comprising:

the aforementioned cap assembly; and
a fluid-storing container, the fluid-storing container comprising:
- a fluid opening;
- a neck surrounding the fluid opening; and
- an external thread located on the neck;
wherein the internal thread of the base cap is engaged or is engageable with the external thread of the fluid-storing container.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided cap assembly for a fluid-storing container, the cap assembly comprising:

a base cap being generally annular in shape, the base cap comprising:
- an outer wall defining an axial bore, the outer wall providing a first opening at one end of the axial bore and a second opening at the other end of the axial bore, the outer wall having an internal thread configured to engage with an external thread of a neck of a fluid-storing container when the neck is inserted into the second opening; and
- a coupling portion extending from the outer wall within the axial bore, the coupling portion comprising an overhang protruding radially inwardly, wherein the coupling portion provides a plug seat on an axial side of the overhang facing the second opening, wherein the coupling portion is radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall such that the neck of the fluid-storing container is receivable between the coupling portion and the outer wall;
a plug comprising:
- a body portion;
- a sealing ring around the periphery of the body portion, the sealing ring having a sealing surface on one axial side thereof; and
- at least one snap connector, for example extending from the sealing surface of the sealing ring;
- wherein, the plug is engageable with the base cap in a sealed configuration, in which the plug provides a fluid-, or liquid-, tight seal with the base cap to close the axial bore of the base cap, wherein, in the sealed configuration, the at least one snap connector is engaged with the overhang of the coupling portion and the sealing surface of the sealing ring abuts the plug seat of the overhang of the coupling portion;
a dust cap comprising a body portion and a connection portion extending from a major surface of the body portion, the connection portion being configured to engage with the snap connector of the plug when the plug is inserted, through the second opening, into the axial bore of the base cap and when the dust cap is inserted, through the first opening, into the axial bore of the base cap.

The connection portion of the dust cap may be annular in shape. The connection portion of the dust cap may be a closed ring.
The at least one snap connector may extend from a major surface of the body portion of the plug. The at least one snap connector may be configured to elastically deflect radially inwardly to pass over the overhang of the coupling portion when the plug is inserted into the axial bore of the base cap. Once the at least one snap connector has passed over the overhang the at least one snap connector may be configured to engage with the overhang and an abutment surface of the plug may abut the plug seat of the overhang.
The at least one snap connector may be a plurality of snap connectors. The plurality of snap connectors may be equally spaced in a circular shape to form a generally annular shape.
The or each snap connector may comprise a distal end. The distal end may be at the opposite end of the respective snap connector to the major surface of the body portion or to the sealing surface of the plug. Any number of the snap connectors may have a first engagement feature extending in, or along, the circumferential direction of plug. Any number of the snap connectors may have a first engagement feature extending in, or along, the circumferential direction of plug proximal the distal end of the respective snap connector.
The connection portion of the dust cap may have a distal end, the distal end being at the opposite end of the connection portion to the major surface of the body portion of the dust cap. A radially outer surface of the connection portion may comprise a connection feature proximal the distal end and extending in, or along, the circumferential direction of the dust cap.
Engagement between the connection portion of the dust cap and the or each snap connector of the plug may be provided by engagement between the first engagement feature of the plug and the connection feature of the connection portion of the dust cap.
The first engagement feature may be a depression, for example a channel or a groove. The connection feature may be a protrusion which is receivable in the depression. The connection feature may be a depression, for example a channel or groove. The first engagement feature may be a protrusion which is receivable in the depression.
The coupling portion of the base cap may comprise a skirt portion. The skirt portion may define an open end of the coupling portion. The skirt portion may have a substantially frustoconical radially inner surface. The overhang may protrude radially inwardly at an end of the skirt portion opposite to the open end of the coupling portion.
The radially inner surface of the skirt portion may have an internal diameter at the open end of the coupling portion which is greater than the internal diameter at the end adjacent the overhang.
The plug may comprise a sealing portion extending from a peripheral edge of the sealing ring in both a radially outward direction and an axial direction away from the sealing surface.
In the sealed configuration, the sealing portion of the plug may be urged radially inwardly by abutment with the radially inner surface of the skirt portion of the base cap.
In embodiments the dust cap comprises a securing portion extending from the major surface of the body portion. The securing portion may be annular in shape. A radially outer surface of the securing portion may be configured to engage with an inner surface of the outer wall of the base cap. A radially outer surface of the securing portion may be configured to engage with an inner surface of the outer wall of the base cap when the securing portion of the dust cap is inserted into the axial bore of the base cap through the first opening.
The radially outer surface of the securing portion of the dust cap may comprise at least one vent. The vent may permit gas to egress from the axial bore of the base cap. The vent may permit gas to egress from the axial bore of the base cap during insertion of the dust cap into the base cap.
The securing portion may comprise an abutment band which forms a part of the radially outer surface of the securing portion. The abutment band may be configured to abut the inner surface of the outer wall of the base cap. The at least one vent may be a channel or groove. The at least one vent may be a channel or groove extending through the abutment band in the axial direction of the dust cap.
The outer wall of the base cap may have at least one first radial engagement feature. The body portion of the dust cap may be configured to close the first opening of the base cap.
The dust cap may comprise a lifting portion. The lifting portion may extend from a periphery of the body portion. The dust cap may have at least one engagement portion. The at least one engagement portion have at least one second radial engagement feature. The at least one second radial engagement feature may be configured to engage with the at least one first radial engagement feature of the outer wall of the base cap. The at least one second radial engagement feature may be configured to engage with the at least one first radial engagement feature of the outer wall of the base cap to secure the dust cap to the base cap. The dust cap may comprise a joining portion connecting the engagement portion to the body portion. The joining portion may extend from the periphery of the body portion. The at least one engagement portion may extend around the periphery of the body portion. The at least one engagement portion may be spaced from the periphery of the body portion. The at least one engagement portion may extend between the lifting portion and the joining portion. One end of each of the at least one engagement portion may be connected, for example be continuous with, the lifting portion. One end of each of the at least one engagement portion may be connected, for example be continuous with, the lifting portion. There may be two engagement portions. The two engagement portions may be radially opposite to one another, with respect to the body portion.
The dust cap may comprise a plurality of breakable bridges. The plurality of breakable bridges may connect the engagement portion to the body portion. When the dust cap is secured to the base cap and when the plurality of breakable bridges are unbroken, the breakable bridges may maintain the relative position between the engagement portion and the body portion. When the dust cap is secured to the base cap and when the plurality of breakable bridges are unbroken, the breakable bridges may maintain the relative position between the engagement portion and the body portion to the extent that engagement between the at least one first radial engagement feature and the at least one second radial engagement feature is maintained.
The breakable bridges may be configured to be broken when a lifting force is applied to the lifting portion. The breakable bridges may be configured to be broken when a lifting force is applied to the lifting portion such that the relative position between at least part of the engagement portion and the body portion is variable. breakable bridges may be configured to be broken when a lifting force is applied to the lifting portion. The breakable bridges may be configured to be broken when a lifting force is applied to the lifting portion such that the relative position between at least part of the engagement portion and the body portion is variable and the dust cap can be disengaged from the base cap.
The dust cap may comprises a gripping portion. The gripping portion may comprise a strip of material which extends around the periphery of the engagement portion. The gripping portion may comprise a strip of material which is spaced from the periphery of the engagement portion. The gripping portion is connected, atone or either end, to the lifting portion.
The plurality of breakable bridges may be a first plurality of breakable bridges. The dust cap may comprise a second plurality of breakable bridges. The second plurality of breakable bridges may connect the gripping portion to the at least one engagement portion. When an opening force is applied to the gripping portion at a position away from the lifting portion, the breakable bridges of the second plurality of breakable bridges may be configured to break. When an opening force is applied to the gripping portion at a position away from the lifting portion, the breakable bridges of the second plurality of breakable bridges may be configured to break before the breakable bridges of the first plurality of breakable bridges.
The engagement portion may be connected to the lifting portion by a breakable connector. The breakable connector may be configured to break when the lifting force is applied to the lifting portion. The breakable connector may be configured to break before the plurality of breakable bridges, or the plurality of first breakable bridges when the lifting force is applied to the lifting portion.
The first radial engagement feature may be located on a radially outer side of the outer wall of the base cap. The second radial engagement feature may be located on a radially inner side of the engagement portion of the dust cap.
The base cap may comprise an external shoulder. The external shoulder may be axially spaced from the first opening. The at least one engagement portion of the dust cap may be generally arcuate in shape. The engagement portion of the dust cap may have at least one edge on the opposite end of the engagement portion to the body portion. The distance between the body portion of the dust cap and the at least one edge of the dust cap may be substantially the same as the axial distance between the external shoulder of the base cap to the first opening of the base cap.
According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a fluid-storing container assembly comprising:

the aforementioned cap assembly;
a fluid-storing container, the fluid-storing container comprising:
- a fluid opening;
- a neck surrounding the fluid opening; and
- an external thread located on the neck;
wherein the internal thread of the base cap is engaged or is engageable with the external thread of the fluid-storing container.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a cap assembly for a fluid-storing container, the cap assembly comprising:

a base cap being generally annular in shape, the base cap comprising
- an outer wall defining an axial bore, the outer wall providing a first opening at one end of the axial bore and a second opening at the other end of the axial bore, the outer wall having an internal thread configured to engage with an external thread of a neck of a fluid-storing container when the neck is inserted into the second opening; and
- a coupling portion extending from the outer wall within the axial bore, wherein the coupling portion is radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall such that the neck of the fluid-storing container is receivable between the coupling portion and the outer wall, wherein the coupling portion comprises:
  - a skirt portion defining an open end of the coupling portion,
  - an overhang protruding radially inwardly at an end of the skirt portion opposite to the open end of the coupling portion, an axial side of the overhang facing the open end of the coupling portion and providing a plug seat,
a plug comprising:
- a body portion;
- a sealing ring around the periphery of the body portion, the sealing ring having a sealing surface on one axial side thereof and having a sealing portion extending from the periphery thereof in both a radially outward direction and an axial direction away from the sealing surface;
at least one snap connector, for example extending from the sealing surface of the sealing ring;

Advantageously, a liquid seal is provided by both the abutment of the plug seat with the overhang, and the sealing portion of the plug with the skirt portion of the base cap.
The skirt portion of the coupling portion may have a substantially frustoconical radially inner surface. The radially inner surface may have a diameter at the open end of the coupling portion which is greater than the diameter at the end adjacent the overhang.
Advantageously this aids in inserting and aligning the plug into the base cap. Furthermore gradual radially inward urging of the sealing portion of the plug is provided by the shape of the sealing portion and the shape of the skirt, thereby increasing the effectiveness of the seal between the them.
A radially outer surface of the sealing portion of the plug may have a sealing lip extending around the periphery thereof. The sealing lip may protrude from the radially outer surface. The sealing lip may be proximal a distal end of the sealing portion, the distal end being at the opposite end of the sealing portion to the sealing ring.
The sealing portion may comprise a reinforcement portion. The reinforcement portion may be between the sealing lip and the distal end of the sealing portion. The reinforcement portion may have a lesser external diameter than the sealing lip. The reinforcing portion may have a substantially cylindrical shape.
Advantageously, the reinforcement portion may protect the sealing lip from damage, in use. Further advantageously, the substantially cylindrical shape may aid with removing the plug from a moulding tool, and reduce the risk of damage to the sealing lip during removal from a moulding tool.
The skirt portion of the coupling portion may have a substantially frustoconical radially outer surface. The frustoconical radially outer surface may have a diameter at the open end of the coupling portion which is greater than the diameter at the end adjacent the overhang.
The radially outer surface of the coupling portion may have a substantially frustoconical shape between the skirt portion and the outer wall of the base cap. The radially outer surface of the coupling portion may have a diameter adjacent the outer wall of the base cap which is greater than the diameter adjacent the skirt portion.
Advantageously, this may improve mouldability as the mould tool is easily retractable when moulding the space between the coupling portion and the outer wall of the base cap.
The plug seat of the base cap may be substantially normal to the axial direction of the base cap. The sealing surface of the plug may be substantially normal to the axial direction of the plug.
The at least one snap connector of the plug may comprise a plurality of snap connectors. The plurality of snap connectors may be arranged in a generally annular shape.
The body portion of the plug may have a central portion and a peripheral portion. The peripheral portion may extend between the central portion and the sealing ring. The peripheral portion may extend from the sealing ring in a radially inward direction. The peripheral portion may extend from the sealing ring in an axial direction away from the sealing surface. The central portion of the body portion may be flat, for example extending in a normal direction of the axis of the plug.
In some embodiments the cap assembly comprises a dust cap. The dust cap may comprise a body portion. The body portion may be configured to close the first opening of the base cap. A connecting portion may extend from a major surface of the body portion. The connecting portion may be configured to engage with the at least one snap connector of the plug. The connecting portion may be configured to engage with the at least one snap connector of the plug when the plug is inserted, through the second opening, into the axial bore of the base cap and when the dust cap is inserted, through the first opening, into the axial bore of the base cap.
The connecting portion of the dust cap may engage with a radially inner surface of the at least one snap connector of the plug.
The or each snap connector may comprise a distal end, the distal end being at the opposite end of the respective snap connector to the major surface of the body portion of the plug. Any number of the snap connectors may have a first engagement feature. The first engagement future may extend in, or along, the circumferential direction of plug, proximal the distal end of the respective snap connector.
The connection portion of the dust cap may have a distal end, the distal end being at the opposite end of the connection portion to the major surface of the body portion of the dust cap. A radially outer surface of the connection portion may comprise a connection feature. The connection feature may be proximal the distal end and may extend in, or along, the circumferential direction of the dust cap;
Engagement between the connection portion of the dust cap and the or each snap connector of the plug may be provided by engagement between the first engagement feature of the plug and the connection feature of the connection portion of the dust cap.
The dust cap may comprise a securing portion extending from a major surface of the body portion. The securing portion may be substantially concentric with the connecting portion. The securing portion may be annular in shape. A radially outer surface of the securing portion may be configured to engage with an inner surface of the outer wall of the base cap. A radially outer surface of the securing portion may be configured to engage with an inner surface of the outer wall of the base cap when the securing portion of the dust cap is inserted into the axial bore of the base cap through the first opening.
The radially outer surface of the securing portion of the dust cap may comprise at least one vent. The at least one vent may permit gas to egress from the axial bore of the base cap. The at least one vent may permit gas to egress from the axial bore of the base cap during insertion of the dust cap into the base cap.
The securing portion may comprise an abutment band. The abutment band may form a part of the radially outer surface of the securing portion. The abutment band may be configured to abut the inner surface of the outer wall of the base cap. The at least one vent may be a channel or groove extending through the abutment band. The at least one vent may be a channel or groove extending through the abutment band in the axial direction of the dust cap.
In embodiments the base cap comprises at least one holding thread. The holding thread may protrude into the space between the coupling portion and the outer wall. The holding thread may protrude into the space between the coupling portion and the outer wall such that an annular liner is receivable in the space between the coupling portion and the outer wall of the base cap, and axially between the at least one holding thread and an axial end of the space between the coupling portion and the outer wall of the base cap. The at least one holding thread may have the same pitch as the internal thread on the outer wall of the base cap. That is, if the at least one holding thread were extended to multiple full rotations, around 360°, the pitch between the full rotations would be the same pitch as the internal thread on the outer wall of the base cap.
According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a fluid storing container assembly comprising:

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a cap for a fluid storing container, the cap being generally annular in shape and comprising:

an outer wall defining an axial bore, the outer wall providing a first opening at one end of the axial bore and a second opening at the other end of the axial bore, the outer wall having an internal thread configured to engage with an external thread of a neck of a fluid-storing container when the neck is inserted into the second opening; and
an inner portion extending from the outer wall within the axial bore, the inner portion being radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall such that the neck of the container is receivable in a space between the inner portion and the outer wall;
at least one holding thread which protrudes into the space between the inner portion and the outer wall such that an annular liner is receivable in the space between the inner portion and the outer wall of the cap, and axially between the at least one holding thread and an axial end of the space between the inner portion and the outer wall of the cap, the at least one holding thread having the same pitch as the internal thread on the outer wall of the cap.

That is, if the at least one holding thread were extended to multiple full rotations, around 360°, the pitch between the full rotations would be the same pitch as the internal thread on the outer wall of the base cap.
The cap may be a base cap. The base cap may be comprised in a cap assembly. The cap assembly may comprise the annual liner. The cap assembly may comprise the annual liner annular liner located or locatable in the space between the inner portion and the outer wall of the base cap, and axially between the at least one holding thread and an axial end of the space between the inner portion and the outer wall of the base cap. The annular liner may be configured to provide a seal on an edge of a rim of the neck of the container when the neck of the container is screwed into in the space between the coupling portion and the outer wall of the base cap.
The at least one holding thread may protrudes from a radially outer surface of the inner portion of the base cap.
The at least one holding thread may be a plurality of holding threads. The plurality of holding threads may be equally spaced around the circumference of the inner portion of the base cap.
In embodiments the inner portion of the base cap comprises a skirt portion defining an open end of the inner portion. The skirt portion may have a substantially frustoconical radially inner surface. The diameter of the radially inner surface of the skirt portion may be greatest at the open end of the inner portion.
The skirt portion of the inner portion may have a substantially frustoconical radially outer surface. The diameter of the radially outer surface of the skirt portion may be greatest at the open end of the inner portion.
The radially outer surface of the inner portion may have a substantially frustoconical shape. The radially outer surface of the inner portion may have a substantially frustoconical shape between the skirt portion and the outer wall of the base cap. The radially outer surface of the inner portion may have a diameter adjacent the outer wall of the base cap which is greater than the diameter adjacent the skirt portion.
The inner portion of the base cap may be a coupling portion. The coupling portion may comprise an overhang protruding radially inwardly at an end of the skirt portion. The coupling portion may comprise an overhang protruding radially inwardly at an end of the skirt portion which is opposite to the open end of the coupling portion. An axial side of the overhang may face the open end of the coupling portion. An axial side of the overhang may face the open end of the coupling portion and provide a plug seat. The radially inner surface may have an internal diameter at the open end of the coupling portion which is greater than the internal diameter at the end adjacent the overhang. The overhang may be configured to engage with a plug. The overhang may be configured to engage with a plug which is configured to close the open end of the coupling potion.
In embodiments the cap assembly comprises a, or the, plug. The plug may comprise a body portion. The plug may comprise a sealing ring around the periphery of the body portion. The sealing ring may have a sealing surface on one axial side thereof.
The plug may comprise at least one snap connector, for example extending from the sealing surface of the sealing ring. The plug may be engageable with the base cap in a sealed configuration. The plug may be engageable with the base cap in a sealed configuration in which the plug provides a fluid-, or liquid-, tight seal with the base cap to close the axial bore of the base cap. In the sealed configuration, the at least one snap connector may be engaged with the overhang of the coupling portion. The sealing surface of the sealing ring may abut the plug seat of the overhang of the coupling portion. The plug may comprise at least one coupler snap connector, for example extending from the sealing surface of the sealing ring. The at least one coupler snap connector may be configured to engage with a connection end of a male probe of an agrochemical distribution system.
In embodiments the cap or base cap comprises a tamper-evident band. The tamper-evident band may be connected to an edge of the outer wall. The tamper-evident band may comprise a first band portion connected to the edge of the outer wall to further define the axial bore. The tamper-evident band may comprise a second band portion connected to the first band portion by a living hinge. The second band portion may be foldable about the living hinge. The second band portion may be foldable about the living hinge between a folded position, in which the second band portion is located inside of the axial bore, and an unfolded position, in which the second band portion is located outside of the axial bore. The second band portion may be divided, around the circumference thereof, into a first portion and a second portion. Each first and second portion may have a respective axial length which is a distance from the living hinge to a free end of the respective first or second portion. The axial length of the first portion may be greater than the axial length of the second portion. The second band portion may comprise at least one tooth. The second band portion may comprise at least one tooth which extends into the axial bore from the second portion when the second band portion is in the folded position. Each of the at least one tooth may have a sloped surface. Each of the at least one tooth may have an abutment surface. Each of the at least one tooth may have an apex between the sloped surface and the abutment surface. The axial length of the first portion may be greater than the distance between the living hinge and the abutment surface of the at least one tooth. The second band portion may be configured such that when the second band portion is in the folded position, as the cap is progressively screwed onto the neck of the container the sloped surface of each of the at least one tooth travels over a shoulder on the neck of the container. The second band portion may be configured such that when the second band portion is in the folded position, as the cap is progressively screwed onto the neck of the container the sloped surface of each of the at least one tooth travels over a shoulder on the neck of the container until the apex of the at least one tooth passes the shoulder. The second band portion may be configured such that when the second band portion is in the folded position, as the cap is progressively screwed onto the neck of the container the sloped surface of each of the at least one tooth travels over a shoulder on the neck of the container until the apex of the at least one tooth passes the shoulder such that the abutment surface of the at least one tooth faces an axial surface of the shoulder, and a face of the first portion of the second band portion faces a radially outer surface of the shoulder.
According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a fluid storing container assembly comprising:

the aforementioned a cap assembly;
- a fluid-storing container, the fluid-storing container comprising:
  - a fluid opening;
  - a neck surrounding the fluid opening; and
  - an external thread located on the neck;
- an annular liner;
wherein the annular liner is located or is locatable in the space between the inner portion, or the coupling portion, and the outer wall of the base cap, and axially between the at least one holding thread and an axial end of the space between the inner portion, or coupling portion and the outer wall of the base cap, and the internal thread of the base cap is engaged or is engageable with the external thread of the fluid-storing container such that the annular liner provides a fluid-, or liquid-, tight seal with a rim of the neck of the container.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing the aforementioned cap or base cap, the method comprising:

providing a threaded core comprising an external thread and an internal thread;
providing at least two mould parts, each with a moulding surface which together define an external shape of the cap or base cap;
closing the at least two mould parts with the threaded core located in a volume provided by the at least two mould parts, such that a moulding cavity is defined between the mould parts and the threaded core;
injecting molten thermoplastic into the moulding cavity to form the cap or base cap;

The method may comprise providing sliders. There may be at least two sliders. The at least two sliders may be movable in a normal direction to a central axis of the base cap or cap. Each slider may have a moulding surface which defines the shape of the radial engagement feature of the outer wall, for example including the overhang and the undercut. The moulding surface of each slider may also define a part of the shape of the external shoulder.
The method may comprise providing a core. The core may be moveable along the central axis of the base cap. The core may have a moulding surface which defines the inner surface of the radial engagement feature of the outer wall, and/or an axial side of the overhang facing the first opening, and/or a part of a radially inner surface of the overhang. The core may also have a joining surface at an end of the core which is adjacent the parts of the moulding surface which define the overhang. One of the at least two moulding parts may be a first main mould part. The first main mould part may be substantially stationary during moulding. The first main mould part may have a moulding surface which defines the outer surface of the gripping portion of the outer wall. The threaded core may be rotatable about, and moveable along, the central axis of the base cap. The threaded core may have a moulding surface with an external thread to define the internal thread of the base cap. The moulding surface of the threaded insert may also have a plurality of internal threads to define the plurality of holding threads of the base cap. The moulding surface of the threaded core may also define the internal surfaces of the TE band in the unfolded configuration, and/or the internal surfaces of the outer wall portion between the second opening and the liner cavity, and/or the radially outer surface of the coupling portion and/or the radially inner surface of the coupling portion between the open end of the coupling portion and a radially innermost part of the overhang. The threaded core may also define the weakened, or perforated, line. The threaded core may also have a joining surface which is normal to the central axis of the base cap and which is adjacent the part of the moulding surface which provides the innermost part of the overhang. Another of the at least two mould parts may be a second main mould part. The second main mould part may be moveable along the central axis of the base cap. The second main mould part may have a moulding surface which defines the external surface of the first band portion of the TE band, and/or the external surface of the lower portion of the base cap. Another of the at least two mould parts may be a third main mould part. The third main mould part may be moveable along the central axis of the base cap. The third main mould part may define the external surface of the second band portion of the TE band.
The method may comprise providing the first main mould tool held in place. The method may comprise moving the sliders into the moulding position. The method may comprise moving the core into position between the sliders. The method may comprise moving the second main mould part into position against the first main mould part. The method may comprise rotating and moving the threaded core into position, for example with the joining surface of the threaded core abutting the joining surface of the core. The method may comprise moving the third main mould part into position against the second main mould part. The steps may be performed in this order or in a different order.
The method may include injecting molten thermoplastic into a moulding cavity provided between all of the moulding surfaces. Once the thermoplastic is cooled and has become sufficiently solid, the mould parts may be opened. The third main mould part may be is moved away from the second main mould part. The threaded core may be rotated and moved away from the core. This may unscrews the threaded core from the base cap. The second main mould part may be moved away from the first main mould part. The core may be moved out of the base cap. The sliders may be opened from around the radial engagement feature of the base cap. The base cap may be ejected from the first main mould part using an ejector ring which pushed the base cap via contact with the external shoulder. The steps may be performed in this order, or in a different order.
According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a cap assembly for a fluid-storing container, the cap assembly comprising:
a base cap being generally annular in shape and comprising:

an outer wall defining an axial bore, the outer wall providing a first opening at one end of the axial bore and a second opening at the other end of the axial bore, the outer wall having an internal thread configured to engage with an external thread of a neck of a fluid-storing container when the neck is inserted into the second opening,
a tamper-evident band connected to an edge of the outer wall to further define the axial bore, the tamper evident band being divided, around the circumference thereof, into at least two first portions and at least two second portions, the first and second portions alternating around the circumference of the tamper-evident band, wherein at least one tooth extends into the axial bore from each of the second portions, each tooth having a sloped surface, an abutment surface and an apex between the sloped surface and the abutment surface,
wherein, as the base cap is progressively screwed onto the neck of the container the sloped surface of each of the at least one tooth travels over a shoulder on the neck of the container until the apex of the at least one tooth passes the shoulder such that the abutment surface of the at least one tooth faces an axial surface of the shoulder;
a dust cap comprising a body portion configured to close the first opening of the base cap and an engagement and/or securing portion configured to engage with the base cap to removably secure the dust cap to the base cap;
wherein the dust cap has a peripheral portion which surrounds the periphery of the body portion and which has an outer diameter equal to that of a circle intersecting a position on the sloped surface of the at least one tooth on each of the second portions.

That is, a circle which intersects the sloped surfaces of at least two of the teeth, proximal the apexes, may have a diameter of D1. A circle which intersects the sloped surfaces of at least two of the teeth, proximal the living hinge, may have a diameter of D2. A peripheral portion of the dust cap, which surrounds the periphery of the body portion, may have an outer diameter which is greater than D1 and which is less than D2.
Advantageously, when adjacent cap assemblies are stacked, the dust cap of one cap assembly does not significantly enter the axial bore of the adjacent cap assembly, means that the dust cap does not tangle with the internal thread of the adjacent cap assembly.
The tamper-evident band of the base cap may comprise a first band portion which is connected to the edge of the outer wall. The tamper-evident band may comprise a second band portion connected to the first band portion by a living hinge. The second band portion may be foldable about the living hinge between a folded position, in which the second band portion is located inside of the axial bore, and an unfolded position, in which the second band portion is located outside of the axial bore. The second band portion may be divided, around the circumference thereof, into the first portions and the second portions. Each first and second portion may have a respective axial length which is a distance from the living hinge to a free end of the respective first or second portion. The axial length of the first portion may be greater than the axial length of the second portion. The at least one tooth may extend into the axial bore from each second portion when the second band portion is in the folded position. The axial length of the first portion may be greater than the distance between the living hinge and the abutment surface of the at least one tooth. The second band portion may be configured such that when the second band portion is in the folded position, as the cap is progressively screwed onto the neck of the container the sloped surface of each of the at least one tooth travels over a shoulder on the neck of the container. The second band portion may be configured such that when the second band portion is in the folded position, as the cap is progressively screwed onto the neck of the container the sloped surface of each of the at least one tooth travels over a shoulder on the neck of the container until the apex of the at least one tooth passes the shoulder. The second band portion may be configured such that when the second band portion is in the folded position, as the cap is progressively screwed onto the neck of the container the sloped surface of each of the at least one tooth travels over a shoulder on the neck of the container until the apex of the at least one tooth passes the shoulder such that the abutment surface of the at least one tooth faces an axial surface of the shoulder, and a face of the first portion of the second band portion faces a radially outer surface of the shoulder.
A plurality of teeth may extend from each second portion. The plurality of teeth may be equally spaced along the respective second portion.
The second band portion may be divided, around the circumference thereof, into at least two first portions, for example three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten first portions, and at least two second portions, for example three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten second portions. The first and second portions may alternate around the circumference of the second band portion. At least one tooth may extend into the axial bore from each of the second portions when the second band portion is in the folded position.
A plurality of teeth, for example two, three, four, five or six teeth, may extend from the or each second portion of the second band portion. The plurality of teeth may be equally spaced along the respective second portion.
The connection between the first band portion of the tamper evident band and the outer wall may comprise a weakened line around the circumference of the outer wall and tamper-evident band. This weakened line may comprise perforations, or thinned material. The connection between the tamper evident band and the outer wall may comprise a plurality of perforations.
The dust cap may comprise a lifting portion. The lifting portion may extend from a periphery of the body portion. The peripheral portion may be a gripping portion. The gripping portion may comprise a strip of material which extends around the periphery of the body portion. The gripping portion may comprise a strip of material which is spaced from the periphery of the body portion. The gripping portion may be connected, at one or either end, to the lifting portion.
The outer wall of the base cap may have at least one first radial engagement feature. The dust cap may comprise at least one engagement portion, for example two engagement portions. The dust cap may comprise the at least one engagement portion. The at least one engagement portion may comprise at least one second radial engagement feature. The at least one second radial engagement feature may be configured to engage with the at least one first radial engagement feature of the outer wall of the base cap to secure the dust cap to the base cap. The dust cap may comprise a joining portion. The joining portion may connect the at least one engagement portion to the body portion. The joining portion may extend from the periphery of the body portion. The at least one engagement portion may extend around the periphery of the body portion. The at least one engagement portion may be spaced from the periphery of the body portion. The at least one engagement portion may extend between the lifting portion and the joining portion. One end of each of the at least one engagement portion may be connected, for example be continuous with, the lifting portion. One end of each of the at least one engagement portion may be connected, for example be continuous with, the lifting portion. There may be two engagement portions. The two engagement portions may be radially opposite to one another, with respect to the body portion. The gripping portion may extend around the periphery of the at least one engagement portion. The gripping portion may be spaced from the periphery of the at least one engagement portion. The gripping portion may be connected at one or either end to the lifting portion. The dust cap may comprise a plurality of breakable bridges. The plurality of breakable bridges may connect the engagement portion to the body portion. When the dust cap is secured to the base cap and when the plurality of breakable bridges are unbroken, the plurality of breakable bridges may maintain the relative position between the engagement portion and the body portion. When the dust cap is secured to the base cap and when the plurality of breakable bridges are unbroken, the plurality of breakable bridges may maintain the relative position between the engagement portion and the body portion to the extent that engagement between the at least one first radial engagement feature and the at least one second radial engagement feature is maintained. The plurality of breakable bridges may be configured to be broken when a lifting force is applied to the lifting portion. The plurality of breakable bridges may be configured to be broken when a lifting force is applied to the lifting portion such that the relative position between at least part of the engagement portion and the body portion is variable and the dust cap can be disengaged from the base cap.
The plurality of breakable bridges may be a first plurality of breakable bridges, and the dust cap may comprise a second plurality of breakable bridges. The second plurality of breakable bridges may connect the gripping portion to the engagement portion. When an opening force is applied to the gripping portion at a position away from the lifting portion, the breakable bridges of the second plurality of breakable bridges may be configured to break. When an opening force is applied to the gripping portion at a position away from the lifting portion, the breakable bridges of the second plurality of breakable bridges may be configured to break before the breakable bridges of the first plurality of breakable bridges.
The base cap may comprise a coupling portion. The coupling portion may extend from the outer wall within the axial bore. The coupling portion may comprise an overhang. The overhang may protrude radially inwardly. The coupling portion may provide a plug seat on an axial side of the overhang facing the second opening. The coupling portion may be radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall. The coupling portion may be radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall such that the neck of the container is receivable between the coupling portion and the outer wall.
In embodiments the cap assembly comprises a plug. The plug may comprise a body portion. The plug may comprise a sealing ring around the periphery of the body portion. The sealing ring may have a sealing surface on one axial side thereof. The plug may comprise at least one snap connector, for example extending from the sealing surface of the sealing ring. The plug may be engageable with the base cap in a sealed configuration. The plug may be engageable with the base cap in a sealed configuration in which the plug provides a fluid-, or liquid-, tight seal with the base cap to close the axial bore of the base cap. In the sealed configuration, the at least one snap connector may be engaged with the overhang of the coupling portion. In the sealed configuration the sealing surface of the sealing ring may abut the plug seat of the overhang of the coupling portion. The plug may comprise at least one coupler snap connector, for example extending from the sealing surface of the sealing ring. The at least one coupler snap connector may be configured to engage with a connection end of a male probe of an agrochemical distribution system.
The at least one snap connector may be configured to elastically deflect radially inwardly to pass over the overhang of the coupling portion of the base cap when the plug is inserted into the axial bore of the base cap. The at least one snap connector may be configured to elastically deflect radially inwardly to pass over the overhang of the coupling portion of the base cap when the plug is inserted into the axial bore of the base cap such that the at least one snap connector engages with the overhang. The at least one snap connector may be configured to elastically deflect radially inwardly to pass over the overhang of the coupling portion of the base cap when the plug is inserted into the axial bore of the base cap such that such that a sealing surface of the plug abuts the plug seat of the overhang.
The dust cap may comprise the connection portion. The connection portion may extend from a major surface of the body portion. The connection portion may be configured to engage with the at least one snap connector of the plug. The connection portion may be configured to engage with the at least one snap connector of the plug when the plug is inserted, through the second opening, into the axial bore of the base cap and when the dust cap is inserted, through the first opening, into the axial bore of the base cap.
The or each snap connector may comprises a distal end, the distal end being at the opposite end of the respective snap connector to the major surface of the body portion or to the sealing surface of the plug. Any number of the snap connectors may have a first engagement feature extending in, or along, the circumferential direction of plug, proximal the distal end of the respective snap connector.
The connection portion of the dust cap may have a distal end, the distal end being at the opposite end of the connection portion to the major surface of the body portion of the dust cap. The connection portion may have a radially outer surface. The radially outer surface of the connection potion may comprise a connection feature. The radially outer surface of the connection potion may comprise a connection feature proximal the distal end of the connection portion. The connection feature may extending in, or along, the circumferential direction of the dust cap.
Engagement between the connection portion of the dust cap and the or each snap connector of the plug may be provided by engagement between the first engagement feature of the plug and the connection feature of the connection portion of the dust cap.
The coupling portion of the base cap may comprise a skirt portion. The skirt portion may define an open end of the coupling portion. The skirt portion may have a substantially frustoconical radially inner surface. The coupling portion may comprise an overhang. The overhang may protrude radially inwardly at an end of the skirt portion opposite to the open end of the coupling portion. An axial side of the overhang may face the open end of the coupling portion. The axial side of the overhang may provide a plug seat.
The radially inner surface of the coupling portion may comprise an internal diameter at the open end of the coupling portion which is greater than the internal diameter at the end adjacent the overhang.
The plug may comprise a sealing portion. The sealing portion may extend from a peripheral edge of the sealing ring. The sealing portion may extend from a peripheral edge of the sealing ring in a radially outward direction. The sealing portion may extend from a peripheral edge of the sealing ring in an axial direction away from the sealing surface.
In the sealed configuration, the sealing portion of the plug may be urged radially inwardly by abutment with the radially inner surface of the skirt portion of the base cap.
The base cap may comprise an inner portion, for example a or the coupling portion. The inner portion may extend from the outer wall within the axial bore. The inner portion may be radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall. The inner portion may be radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall such that the neck of the container is receivable in a space between the inner portion and the outer wall.
The base cap may comprise at least one holding thread. The at least one holding thread may protrude into the space between the inner portion and the outer wall. The at least one holding thread may protrude into the space between the inner portion and the outer wall such that an annular liner is receivable in the space between the inner portion and the outer wall of the base cap and axially between the at least one holding thread and an axial end of the space between the inner portion and the outer wall of the base cap. The space between the inner portion and the outer wall of the base cap and axially between the at least one holding thread and an axial end of the space between the inner portion and the outer wall of the base cap may be referred to as a liner cavity. The at least one holding thread may have the same pitch as the internal thread on the outer wall of the base cap.
That is, if the at least one holding thread were extended to multiple full rotations, around 360°, the pitch between the full rotations would be the same pitch as the internal thread on the outer wall of the base cap.
In embodiments the cap assembly comprises an annular liner located or locatable in the space between the inner portion and the outer wall of the base cap, and axially between the at least one holding thread and an axial end of the space between the inner portion and the outer wall of the base cap.
The at least one holding thread may protrude from a radially outer surface of the inner portion of the base cap. The at least one holding thread may be a plurality of holding threads. The plurality of holding threads may be equally spaced around the circumference of the inner portion of the base cap.
A further aspect of the invention provides a fluid-storing container assembly comprising:

the aforementioned cap assembly;
a fluid-storing container, the fluid-storing container comprising:
- a fluid opening;
- a neck surrounding the fluid opening;
- an external thread located on the neck; and
- a shoulder located at an end of the external thread such that the external thread is between the fluid opening and the shoulder,
wherein the internal thread of the base cap is engaged or is engageable with the external thread of the fluid-storing container and the abutment surface of the at least one tooth faces an axial surface of the shoulder, and a face of the first portion of the second band portion faces a radially outer surface of the shoulder.

A further aspect of the invention provides a cap assembly for a fluid-storing container, the cap assembly comprising:

a base cap being generally annular in shape, the base cap comprising an outer wall defining an axial bore, the outer wall providing a first opening at one end of the axial bore and a second opening at the other end of the axial bore, the outer wall having an internal thread configured to engage with an external thread of a neck of a fluid-storing container when the neck is inserted into the second opening; and
a dust cap comprising:
- a body portion;
- a securing portion extending from the major surface of the body portion, the securing portion being annular in shape, wherein a radially outer surface of the securing portion is configured to engage with an inner surface of the outer wall of the base cap when the securing portion of the dust cap is inserted into the axial bore of the base cap through the first opening;
wherein the radially outer surface of the securing portion of the dust cap comprises at least one vent which permits gas to egress from the axial bore of the base cap during insertion of the dust cap into the base cap.

The securing portion may comprise an abutment band. The abutment band may form a part of the radially outer surface of the securing portion. The abutment band may be configured to abut the inner surface of the outer wall of the base cap. The at least one vent may be a channel or groove extending through the abutment band. The at least one vent may be a channel or groove extending through the abutment band in the axial direction of the dust cap.
The outer wall of the base cap may have at least one first radial engagement feature. The body portion of the dust cap may be configured to close the first opening of the base cap. The dust cap may comprise a lifting portion extending from a periphery of the body portion. The dust cap may comprise at least one engagement portion with at least one second radial engagement feature. The at least one second engagement feature may be configured to engage with the at least one first radial engagement feature of the outer wall of the base cap to secure the dust cap to the base cap. The dust cap may comprise a joining portion connecting the at least one engagement portion to the body portion. The joining portion may extend from the periphery of the body portion. The at least one engagement portion may extend around the periphery of the body portion. The at least one engagement portion may be spaced from the periphery of the body portion. The at least one engagement portion may extend between the lifting portion and the joining portion. One end of each of the at least one engagement portion may be connected, for example be continuous with, the lifting portion. One end of each of the at least one engagement portion may be connected, for example be continuous with, the lifting portion. There may be two engagement portions. The two engagement portions may be radially opposite to one another, with respect to the body portion.
The dust cap may comprise a plurality of breakable bridges. The breakable bridges may connect the engagement portion to the body portion. When dust cap is secured to the base cap and when the plurality of breakable bridges are unbroken, the breakable bridges may maintain the relative position between the engagement portion and the body portion. When dust cap is secured to the base cap and when the plurality of breakable bridges are unbroken, the breakable bridges may maintain the relative position between the engagement portion and the body portion to the extent that engagement between the at least one first radial engagement feature and the at least one second radial engagement feature is maintained. The breakable bridges may be configured to be broken when a lifting force is applied to the lifting portion. The breakable bridges may be configured to be broken when a lifting force is applied to the lifting portion such that the relative position between at least part of the engagement portion and the body portion is variable. The breakable bridges may be configured to be broken when a lifting force is applied to the lifting portion such that the relative position between at least part of the engagement portion and the body portion is variable and the dust cap can be disengaged from the base cap.
The dust cap may comprise a gripping portion. The gripping portion may comprise a strip of material which extends around the periphery of the at least one engagement portion. The gripping portion may comprise a strip of material which is spaced from the periphery of the at least one engagement portion. The gripping portion may be connected, at one or either end, to the lifting portion.
The plurality of breakable bridges may be a first plurality of breakable bridges. The dust cap may comprise a second plurality of breakable bridges. The second plurality of breakable bridges may connect the gripping portion to the at least one engagement portion. When an opening force is applied to the gripping portion at a position away from the lifting portion, the breakable bridges of the second plurality of breakable bridges may be configured to break. When an opening force is applied to the gripping portion at a position away from the lifting portion, the breakable bridges of the second plurality of breakable bridges may be configured to break before the breakable bridges of the first plurality of breakable bridges.
The at least one engagement portion may be connected to the lifting portion by a breakable connector. The breakable connector may be configured to break when the lifting force is applied to the lifting portion. The breakable connector may be configured to break before the plurality of breakable bridges, or the plurality of first breakable bridges, when the lifting force is applied to the lifting portion.
The first radial engagement feature may be located on a radially outer side of the outer wall of the base cap. The second radial engagement feature may be located on a radially inner side of the engagement portion of the dust cap.
The base cap may comprise an external shoulder. The external shoulder may be axially spaced from the first opening. The at least one engagement portion of the dust cap may be generally arcuate in shape. The at least one engagement portion of the dust cap may have at least one edge on the opposite end of the engagement portion to the body portion. The distance between the body portion of the dust cap and the at least one edge of the dust cap may be substantially the same as the axial distance between the external shoulder of the base cap to the first opening of the base cap.
The base cap may comprise a coupling portion. The coupling portion may extend from the outer wall within the axial bore. The coupling portion may comprise an overhang . The overhang may protrude radially inwardly. The coupling portion may provide a plug seat on an axial side of the overhang facing the second opening. The coupling portion may be radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall such that the neck of the fluid-storing container is receivable between the coupling portion and the outer wall. The cap assembly may comprise a plug. The plug may comprise a body portion. The plug may comprise a sealing ring around the periphery of the body portion. The sealing ring may have a sealing surface on one axial side thereof. The plug may comprise at least one snap connector, for example extending from the sealing surface of the sealing ring. The plug may be engageable with the base cap in a sealed configuration. The plug may be engageable with the base cap in a sealed configuration in which the plug provides a fluid-, or liquid-, tight seal with the base cap to close the axial bore of the base cap. In the sealed configuration, the at least one snap connector may be engaged with the overhang of the coupling portion. In the sealed configuration, the sealing surface of the sealing ring may abut the plug seat of the overhang of the coupling portion. The dust cap may comprise a connection portion extending from a major surface of the body portion. The connection portion may be spaced radially inwardly from the securing portion. The connection portion may be configured to engage with the snap connector of the plug when the plug is inserted, through the second opening, into the axial bore of the base cap and when the dust cap is inserted, through the first opening, into the axial bore of the base cap. The connection portion may be annular in shape. The connection portion may be a closed ring. The at least one snap connector may be configured to elastically deflect radially inwardly to pass over the overhang of the coupling portion when the plug is inserted into the axial bore of the base cap. The plug may comprise at least one coupler snap connector, for example extending from the sealing surface of the sealing ring. The at least one coupler snap connector may be configured to engage with a connection end of a male probe of an agrochemical distribution system.
The at least one snap connector may be a plurality of snap connectors. The plurality of snap connectors may be equally spaced in a circular shape to form a generally annular shape.
The or each snap connector may comprise a distal end, the distal end being at the opposite end of the respective snap connector to the major surface of the body portion or to the sealing surface of the plug. Any number of the snap connectors may have a first engagement feature extending in, or along, the circumferential direction of plug. The first engagement feature of each snap connector may be proximal the distal end of the respective snap connector.
The connection portion of the dust cap may have has a distal end, the distal end being at the opposite end of the connection portion to the major surface of the body portion of the dust cap. A radially outer surface of the connection portion may comprise a connection feature. The connection feature may be proximal the distal end of the connection feature. The connection feature may extend in, or along, the circumferential direction of the dust cap.
Engagement between the connection portion of the dust cap and the or each snap connector of the plug may be provided by engagement between the first engagement feature of the plug and the connection feature of the connection portion of the dust cap.
The first engagement feature may be a depression, for example a channel or a groove. The connection feature may be a protrusion which is receivable in the depression. The connection feature may be a depression, for example a channel or groove. The first engagement feature may be a protrusion which is receivable in the depression.
The coupling portion of the base cap may comprise a skirt portion. The skirt portion may define an open end of the coupling portion. The skirt portion may have a substantially frustoconical radially inner surface. The overhang may protrude radially inwardly at an end of the skirt portion opposite to the open end of the coupling portion.
The radially inner surface of the skirt portion may have an internal diameter at the open end of the coupling portion which is greater than the internal diameter at the end adjacent the overhang.
The plug may comprise a sealing portion. The sealing portion may extend from a peripheral edge of the sealing ring. The sealing portion may extend from a peripheral edge of the sealing ring in a radially outward direction. The sealing portion may extend from a peripheral edge of the sealing ring in an axial direction away from the sealing surface. In the sealed configuration, the sealing portion of the plug may be urged radially inwardly by abutment with the radially inner surface of the skirt portion of the base cap.
A further aspect of the invention provides a fluid-storing container assembly comprising:

A further aspect of the invention provides a cap assembly comprising:

a cap or base cap as described in any of the aforementioned aspects of the invention
a plug as described in any of the aforementioned aspects of the invention; and a dust cap as described in any of the aforementioned aspects of the invention.

A further aspect of the invention provides an agrochemical distribution system comprising:

a base cap as described in any of the aforementioned aspects of the invention, the outer wall of the base cap having the at least one first radial engagement feature;
a plug as described in any of the aforementioned aspects of the invention;
a fluid storing container;
an agrochemical distribution apparatus, the distribution apparatus comprising:
- a coupler which is generally annular in shape, and which has coupling feature;
- a male probe slidably located in a bore of the coupler;
wherein the first radial engagement feature of the base cap is engageable with the coupling feature of the coupler such that the fluid opening of the fluid storing container is located facing downwards towards the coupler, and wherein, when the first radial engagement feature of the base cap is engaged with the coupling feature of the coupler, the male probe is slidable into the axial bore of the base cap to disengage the plug from the base cap, such that the plug moves into the fluid storing container.

The male probe may have a connection end. The plug may comprise at least one coupler snap connector, for example extending from the sealing surface of the sealing ring. The at least one coupler snap connector may be configured to engage with the connection end of the male probe of an agrochemical distribution system. The connection end of the male probe may be configured to engage with the couple snap connector of the plug. The connection end of the male probe may be configured to engage with the coupler snap connector of the plug such that when the male probe is retracted into the coupler, the plug is re-engaged with the base cap. The male probe may have shaft, the connection end being at an end of the shaft. The shaft may have a smaller external diameter than the minimum internal diameter of the axial bore of the base cap. The shaft may have a smaller external diameter than the minimum internal diameter of the axial bore of the base cap such that fluid in the fluid storing container is able to flow around the male probe and into the agrochemical distribution apparatus through the bore of the coupler. The shaft may be hollow tube. The shaft may comprise at least one aperture through a wall of the hollow tube. Agrochemical may be able to flow form the fluid storing container to the agrochemical distribution apparatus through the at least one aperture in the shaft.
The fluid storing container as described in any of the aforementioned aspects of the invention may be a fluid storing container for storing agrochemicals, for example pesticides, herbicides or fertilisers.
Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. For the avoidance of doubt, the terms "may", "and/or", "e.g.", "for example" and any similar term as used herein should be interpreted as non-limiting such that any feature so-described need not be present. Indeed, any combination of optional features is expressly envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention, whether or not these are expressly claimed. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.
Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic of a fluid-storing container with a cap assembly according to the invention, attached;
Figure 2 is an exploded view of the fluid-storing container and cap assembly of Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a side view of a base cap of the cap assembly shown in Figure 1, shown in an unfolded configuration;
Figure 4 is a section side view of the base cap of Figure 3, shown in the unfolded configuration;
Figure 5A is a side view of a tooth of the base cap of Figure 3, shown in an unfolded configuration;
Figure 5B is a side view of a tooth of the base cap of Figure 3, shown in a folded configuration;
Figure 6 is a detailed section view of a liner cavity of the base cap of Figure 3;
Figure 7 is a section side view of the base cap of Figure 3, shown in the folded configuration;
Figure 8 is a schematic of an injection moulding process for forming the base cap of Figure 3.
Figure 9 is a side view of a plug of the cap assembly of Figure 1;
Figure 10 is a section side view of the plug of Figure 9;
Figure 11 is a detailed view of a sealing portion of the plug of Figure 9;
Figure 12 is a detailed view of the interaction between the plug of Figure 9 and the base cap of Figure 3;
Figure 13 is a top view of a dust cap of the cap assembly of Figure 1;
Figure 14 is a side section view of the dust cap of Figure 1, along line A-A;
Figure 15 is a side section view of the dust cap of Figure 1, along line S-S;
Figure 16A is a detailed view of a vent of the dust cap of Figure 13;
Figure 16B is a detailed section view of the vent of the dust cap of Figure 13;
Figure 17 is a detailed section view of the engagement features of the dust cap of Figure 12;
Figure 18 is a bottom perspective view of the dust cap of Figure 13;
Figure 19 is a detailed section view showing interaction between the dust cap of Figure 12 and the base cap of Figure 3;
Figure 20 is a detailed section view showing interaction between the dust cap of Figure 12 and the base cap of Figure 3; and
Figure 21 is an illustration of cap assemblies of Figure 1 which are stacked, and the resulting interaction therebetween.

Referring now to Figures 1 and 2, there is shown a fluid-storing container 1, which is hereinafter referred to as the container 1. The container 1 in this example is especially suited to storing and transporting agrochemicals, for example pesticides, herbicides or fertilisers, although it will be appreciated that the container 1 is also suitable for storing and transporting other fluids.
The container 1 has a fluid opening 11 through which fluid can enter or exit the container 1. The container 1 has a neck 12 which surrounds the fluid opening 11. The container 1 has an external thread 13 located on the neck 12. The container 1 has a shoulder 14 located at an end of the external thread 13 such that the external thread 13 is between the fluid opening 11 and the shoulder 14. The shoulder 14 has a sloped lead-in surface 14a on the axial side of the shoulder 14 which is adjacent the external thread 13.
A cap assembly is attached or is attachable to the container 1, the cap assembly having a base cap 2, a plug 3 and a dust cap 4.
Throughout this description reference is made to 'axial', 'radial' and 'circumferential' directions. The axial direction is aligned with the central axis of the container 1, for example the axis of symmetry of container 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2. The radial direction is normal to the axial direction, and the circumferential is around the axial direction, which is the azimuth in a cylindrical coordinate system.
Figure 3 shows a side view of the base cap 2. Figure 4 shows a side section view through the centreline of the base cap 2. The base cap 2 has a folded configuration and an unfolded configuration, as is described in more detail subsequently. The base cap 2 is shown in the unfolded configuration in Figures 3 and 4.
The base cap 2 has an outer wall 21. The base cap 2 is generally annular in shape, with the outer wall 21 having a first opening 211 at one end and a second opening 212 at the other end, defining an axial bore B therebetween. The outer wall 21 has a gripping portion 213, or inner knurl, which has a plurality of gripping protrusions arranged on a radially outer surface, around the circumference, thereof, which aid a user in applying a rotating force to the base cap 2. Located between the gripping portion 213 and the second opening 212 is a lower portion 218 of the outer wall 21 which has a greater external diameter than the gripping portion 213.
The outer wall 21 has a radial engagement feature 214 located between the gripping portion 213 and the first opening 211, in the form of an overhang 214a which extends radially outwardly around the periphery of the first opening 211 to form an undercut 214b between the overhang and the gripping portion 213. The overhang 214a has a lead-in surface adjacent the first opening 211 of the base cap 2. The radial engagement feature 214 has a smaller external diameter than the gripping portion 1213 such that an external shoulder 215 is provided. The outer wall 21 has an internal thread 216 proximal the second opening 212 on a radially inner surface of the outer wall 21 in the region of the gripping portion 213 . The internal diameter of the lower portion 218 is greater than the diameter of any part of the internal thread 216 such that an internal shoulder 217 is formed.
In this example the base cap 2 has a tamper-evident (TE) band 22 connected to a lower edge of the outer wall 21, that is, the edge of the outer wall 21 which defines the second opening 212. In this way, the TE band 22 defines an open end 224 of the base cap 2. The TE band 22 has a first band portion 221 connected to the edge of the outer wall 21, the first band portion 221 further defining the axial bore B. The TE band 22 has a second band portion 222 connected to the first band portion 221 by a living hinge 223. The second band portion 222 is divided, around the circumference thereof, into eight first portions 222a and eight second portions 222b, in an alternating arrangement. Each first portion 222a is formed of a strip of material with two ends, each end joined to the adjacent second portion 222b, a connected side which is joined to the outer wall 21, and a free side opposite to the connected side. Similarly, each second portion 222b is formed of a strip of material with two ends, each end joined to the adjacent first portion 222a, a connected side which is joined to the outer wall 21, and a free side opposite to the connected side. Each first portion 222a and each second portion 222b has an axial length, defined as the distance from the living hinge 223 to the respective free side. The axial length of each first portion 222a is greater than the axial length of each second portion 222b. Each second band portion 222 has four teeth 222c. The teeth 222c are equally spaced along the circumferential length of the respective second portion 222b.
Whilst there are eight first portions 222a and eight second portions 222b, it will be appreciated that any number may be provided. Also, whilst each second portion 222b has four teeth 222c, there may be any number of teeth 222c on each second portion 222b.
Figure 5A shows a side profile of one of the teeth 222c in the unfolded configuration, and Figure 5B shows a side profile of one of the teeth 222c in the folded configuration. Each tooth 222c has a sloped surface 222ca, an abutment surface 222cb and an apex 222cd between the sloped surface 222ca and the abutment surface 222cb. The axial length of each first portion 222a is greater than the distance between the living hinge 223 and the abutment surface 222cb of each tooth 222c. The second band portion 222 is foldable, about the living hinge 223, between a folded position as shown in Figure 7, in which the second band portion 222 is located inside of the axial bore B, and an unfolded position, in which the second band portion 222 is located outside of the axial bore B, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. In Figure 7, where the base cap 2 is shown in the folded configuration, the first portions 222a of the second band portion 222 are substantially parallel with the first band portion 221, with the second band portion 222 being inside of the axial bore B. The teeth 222c extend into the axial bore B from the second portion 222 when the second band portion 222 is in the folded position.
When the second band portion 222 is in the folded position a circle which intersects the sloped surfaces 222ca of at least two of the teeth 222, proximal the apexes 222cd, has a diameter (Ø) of D1, and a circle which intersects the sloped surfaces 222ca of at least two of the teeth 222, proximal the living hinge 223, has a diameter (Ø) of D2. D1 and D2 are indicated in Figure 21. The sloped surface 222ca of each tooth 222c is substantially parallel to the centreline of the axial bore B when the second band portion 222 is in the unfolded position and the first portion 222a of the second band portion 222 is substantially parallel to the centreline of the axial bore B when the second band portion 222 is in the folded position.
In this example the connection between the first band portion 221 of the TE band 22 and the outer wall 21 of the base cap 2 has a weakened line 219, for example comprising a plurality of perforations, such that the TE band 22 is detachable from the outer wall 21 by breaking the weakened line 219, for example by breaking the material between the perforations.
In this example the base cap 2 has a coupling portion 23 extending from the outer wall 21 within the axial bore B. In this example the coupling portion 23 has substantially the same internal diameter, at the position where the coupling portion 23 joins the outer wall 21, as the radial engagement feature 214 of the outer wall 21. The coupling portion 23 extends towards the second opening 212 from an internal surface of the external shoulder 215 of the outer wall 21. The coupling portion 23 is radially spaced from the part of the outer wall 21 which has the gripper surface 213. The coupling portion 23 has an overhang 231 protruding radially inwardly. The coupling portion 23 provides a plug seat 232 on an axial side of the overhang 231 facing the second opening 212. The coupling portion 23 has a skirt portion 233 defining an open end of the coupling portion 23. The skirt portion 233 has a substantially frustoconical radially inner surface and a substantially frustoconical radial outer surface. The overhang 231 is located at an end of the skirt portion 233 opposite to the open end of the coupling portion 23. The radially inner surface of the skirt portion 233 has an internal diameter at the open end of the coupling portion 23 which is greater than the internal diameter at the end adjacent the overhang 231. The radially outer surface of the coupling portion 23 also has a substantially frustoconical shape between the skirt portion and the outer wall 21 of the base cap 2. The radially outer surface of the coupling portion 23 has a diameter adjacent the outer wall 21 of the base cap 2 which is greater than the diameter adjacent the skirt portion 233. The space between the coupling portion 23 and the outer wall 21 has a liner cavity 24 adjacent the external shoulder 215, for receiving an annular liner 5. The annular liner 5 is a sealing ring which is compressed between the base cap 2 and a rim of the container 1 when the base cap 2 is screwed onto the container 1, as is inferable from Figure 1.
Referring now to Figure 6, a detailed view of the liner cavity 24 of the base cap 21 is shown, with the annular liner 5 located therein. Protruding into the space between the coupling portion 23 and the outer wall 21, from a radially outer surface of the coupling portion 23, are a plurality of holding threads 241. The holding threads 241 are located at an opposite end of the liner cavity 24 to the external shoulder 215, such that the holding threads 241 are adjacent the annular liner 5 when the annular liner 5 is located in the liner cavity 24. The holding threads 241 are equally spaced around the circumference of the coupling portion 23. Each holding thread 241 has a geometry which provides the same pitch as the internal thread 216 of the base cap 2. That is, if each holding thread 241 were extended to multiple full rotations, around 360°, the pitch between the full rotations would be the same pitch as the internal thread 216 on the outer wall of the base cap 2.
Although any suitable method may be used to manufacture the base cap 2, using any suitable material, the base cap 2 is preferably manufactured using injection moulding and is preferably formed of a thermoplastic material.
Referring now to Figure 8, moulding components of an example injection moulding machine are shown, to depict an injection moulding process which is usable to mould the base cap 2. The arrows in Figure 8 depict the movement axis of the respective components. The injection moulding machine has sliders 61. There are at least two sliders 61, which are movable in a normal direction to the central axis of the base cap 2. Each slider 61 has a moulding surface 611 which defines the shape of the radial engagement feature 214 of the outer wall 21, including the overhang 214a and the undercut 214b. The moulding surface 611 of each slider 61 also defines a part of the shape of the external shoulder 215.
The injection moulding machine has a core 62. The core is moveable along the central axis of the base cap 2. The core 62 has a moulding surface 621 which defines the inner surface of the radial engagement feature 214 of the outer wall 21, and an axial side of the overhang 231 facing the first opening 211, as well as a part of a radially inner surface of the overhang 231. The core 62 also has a joining surface 622 at an end of the core 62 which is adjacent the parts of the moulding surface 621 which define the overhang 231. The injection moulding machine has a first main mould part 63. The first main mould part 63 is substantially stationary during moulding. The first main mould part 63 has a moulding surface 631 which defines the outer surface of the gripping portion 213 of the outer wall 21. The injection moulding machine has a threaded core 64. The threaded core is rotatable about, and moveable along, the central axis of the base cap 2. The threaded core 64 has a moulding surface 641 with an external thread 641a, to define the internal thread 216 of the base cap 2. The moulding surface 641 of the threaded insert 64 also has a plurality of internal threads 641b, to define the plurality of holding threads 241 of the base cap 2. The moulding surface 641 of the threaded core 64 also defines the internal surfaces of the TE band 22 in the unfolded configuration, and the internal surfaces of the outer wall 21 portion between the second opening 212 and the liner cavity 24, the radially outer surface of the coupling portion 23 and the radially inner surface of the coupling portion 23 between the open end of the coupling portion 23 and a radially innermost part of the overhang 231. The threaded core 64 also defines the weakened, or perforated, line 219. The threaded core 64 also has a joining surface 642 which is normal to the central axis of the base cap 2 and which is adjacent the part of the moulding surface 641 which provides the innermost part of the overhang 231. The injection moulding machine also has a second main mould part 65. The second main mould part 65 is moveable along the central axis of the base cap 2. The second main mould part 65 has a moulding surface 651 which defines the external surface of the first band portion 221 of the TE band 22, and the external surface of the lower portion 218 of the base cap 2. The injection moulding machine also has a third main mould part 66. The third main mould part 66 is moveable along the central axis of the base cap 2. The third main mould part 66 has a moulding surface 661 which defines the external surface of the second band portion 222 of the TE band 22.
To injection mould the base cap 2, with the first main mould tool 63 in place, the sliders 61 are first moved into the moulding position. Next the core 62 is moved into position between the sliders 61. Next the second main mould part 65 is moved into position against the first main mould part 63. Next the threaded core 64 is rotated and moved into position, with the joining surface 642 of the threaded core 64 abutting the joining surface 622 of the core 62. Next the third main mould part 66 is moved into position against the second main mould part 65.
At this point the mould parts are assembled and, if not already heated, the mould parts are heated now. Molten thermoplastic is injected into a moulding cavity provided between all of the moulding surfaces. Once the thermoplastic is cooled and has become sufficiently solid, the mould parts are opened. First the third main mould part 66 is moved away from the second main mould part 65. Next the threaded core 64 is rotated and moved away from the core 62. This unscrews the threaded core 64 from the base cap 2. Next the second main mould part 65 is moved away from the first main mould part 63. Next the core 62 is moved out of the base cap 2. Next the sliders are opened from around the radial engagement feature 214 of the base cap 2. Next the base cap 2 is ejected from the first main mould part 63 using an ejector ring which pushed the base cap via contact with the external shoulder 215.
Advantageously providing a plurality of spaced part teeth 222c on the base cap 2, as opposed to larger blocks of material which are designed to allow axial movement in only one direction, improves the filling of the mould and reduces warping during moulding. This advantage is also realisable because the teeth 222c are similar in thickness to the second portion 222b of the second band portion 222.
Advantageously, the holding threads 241 enable simple injection moulding of the base cap 2. This is because, once the thermoplastic used to injection mould base cap 2 has solidified sufficiently to remove the first insert from the base cap 2, rotation of the threaded core 64 means that the threaded core effectively unscrews from the holding threads 241, in the same way that the threaded core 64 unscrews from the internal thread 216. This means that the threaded core 64 need not pass over the holding thread 241, which could deforming the holding threads 241 and/or the coupling portion, which could potentially damage them.
In use, the annular liner 5 is pushed into the liner cavity 24 such that the liner 5 is held in place by the holding threads 241. Also, in use, and as shown in Figure 1, the neck 12 of the container 1 is receivable in the space between the coupling portion 23 and the outer wall 21. That is, when the base cap 2 is in the folded configuration and the external thread 13 of the container 1 is engaged with the internal thread 216 of the base cap 2, the neck 12 of the container 1 is received in the space between the coupling portion 23 and the outer wall 21 as the base cap 2 is screwed onto the neck 2 of the container 1. The base cap 2 is screwed onto the container 1 until the rim of the neck 12, which surrounds the fluid opening 11, abuts the annular liner 5 in a fluid-tight manner. As the base cap 2 is progressively screwed onto the neck of the container 1 the sloped surface 222ca of each tooth 222c travels over the lead-in surface 14a of the shoulder 14 on the neck 12 of the container 1 until the apex 222cd of the tooth 222c passes the shoulder 14. Thereafter the abutment surface 222cb of each tooth 222c faces an axial surface of the shoulder 14, and a face of each of the first portions 222a of the second band portion 222 faces a radially outer surface of the shoulder 14.
When a rotating force is applied to the gripping portion 213 of the base cap 2 to unscrew the base cap 2 from the container 1, the abutment surfaces 222cb of the teeth 222c abut the shoulder 14 of the container 1, to resist further axial movement of the base cap 2. Continued unscrewing of the base cap 2 causes tamper evident damage to the base cap 2, in one of three of the following damage modes:

Mode 1 - the weakened line 219, for example the material between the perforations, break such that the base cap 2 can be unscrewed and removed from the container 1 but the TE band 22 remains around the neck 12 of the container 1, for example with the shoulder 14 between the TE band 22 and the external thread 13 of the container 1.
Mode 2 - in cases where weakened line 219, for example the material between the perforations, does not break as intended when the base cap 2 is unscrewed from the container 1, the abutment of the abutment surface 222cb of each tooth 222c with the axial surface of the shoulder 14, and abutment of the face of the first portions 222a of the second band portion 222 with the radially outer surface of the shoulder 14 causes the second band portion 222 of the TE band 22 to unfold about the living hinge. Such unfolding is likely to deform parts of the TE band 22 beyond the elastic limit of the material used to form the TE band 22, because the abutment between the face of the first portions 222a of the second band portion 222 with the radially outer surface of the shoulder 14 means that the TE band 22 must expand, or flare, radially outwardly. This expansion, or flaring, and inelastic deformation, causes evidence of tampering with the base cap 2, which remains visible after removal of the base cap 2 from the container 1.
Mode 3 - A combination of modes 1 and 2. That is, the TE band 22 begins to unfold, which may or may not cause inelastic deformation of the TE band 22, as described with respect to Mode 2, followed by breaking of the weakened line 219 for example the material between perforations. In this case the broken weakened line 219, or material between perforations, at least cause evidence of tampering, and any inelastic deformation of the TE band 22 would also cause evidence of tampering.

These multiple modes of damage are advantageous because the likelihood of the base cap 2 being removed without leaving evidence of tampering is lower, due to the three possible modes of damage when removing the base cap 2.
Referring now to Figures 9 and 10, Figure 9 shows a side view of the plug 3 and Figure 10 shows a side section view of the plug 3.
The plug 3 has a body portion 31 and a sealing ring 32 around the periphery of the body portion 31. The sealing ring 32 has a sealing surface 321 on one axial side thereof. In this example the sealing surface 321 is substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the plug 3. The body portion 31 has a central portion 311 and a peripheral portion 312. The central portion 311 is substantially planar. The peripheral portion 312 is between the central portion 311 and the sealing ring 32. In this example the peripheral portion 312 extends from the sealing ring 32 in both a radially inward direction and an axial direction away from the sealing surface 321 so as to extend towards the central portion 311.
The plug 3 has a sealing portion 33 extending from the periphery of the sealing ring 32 in both a radially outward direction and an axial direction away from the sealing surface 321. The plug 3 has eight snap connectors. In this example the snap connectors include four first snap connectors 34 and four second snap connectors 35. The second snap connectors 35 may also be referred to as coupler snap connectors. In this example the snap connectors 34 extend from the sealing surface 321 of the sealing ring 32. However, in other examples the first snap connectors 34 extend from the body portion 31 of the plug 3. The first snap connectors 34 are equally spaced in a generally annular shape. The first and second snap connectors 34, 35 are arranged in an alternating arrangement around the annular shape. It will be appreciated that any suitable number of first snap connectors 34 and second snap connectors 35 in any suitable arrangement may be provided.
Referring now to Figure 11, a detailed view of a part of the sealing portion 33 is shown. A radially outer surface of the sealing portion 33 of the plug 3 has a sealing lip 331 extending around the periphery thereof, which protrudes from a radially outer surface of the sealing portion 33. The sealing lip 331 is proximal a distal end of the sealing portion 33, the distal end being at the opposite end of the sealing portion 33 to the sealing ring 32. The sealing portion 33 has a reinforcement portion 332 between the sealing lip 331 and the distal end of the sealing portion 33. The reinforcement portion 332 has a lesser external diameter than the sealing lip 331. The reinforcement portion 332 protects the sealing lip 331 from damage by spacing the sealing lip 331 from the distal end of the sealing portion 33. The reinforcement portion 332 is preferably substantially cylindrical or has a diameter at the distal end which is less than at the sealing lip 331. This improves the mouldability of the plug 3.
In this example each first snap connector 34 has a distal end which is at the opposite side of the respective first snap connector 34 to the body portion 31. Each first snap connector 34 has an overhang 342 on a radially outer surface to form an undercut between the respective overhang 342 and the sealing surface 321. Located between each overhang 342 and the distal end of the respective first snap connector 34 is a lead-in surface 343 which is sloped radially inwardly with distance from the sealing surface 321.
At least one of the first snap connectors 34 has a first engagement feature 341 extending in, or along, the circumferential direction of the plug 3, proximal the distal end of the respective first snap connector 34. Each first engagement feature 341 is on a radially inner surface of the respective first snap connector 34. In this example each first engagement feature 341 is a groove or channel.
In this example, each second snap connector 35 has a distal end which is at the opposite side of the respective second snap connector 35 to the body portion 31. Each second snap connector 35 has an overhang 351 on a radially inner surface to form an undercut between the respective overhang 351 and the sealing surface 321. Located between each overhang 351 and the distal end of the respective second snap connector 35 is a lead-in surface 352 which is sloped radially outwardly with distance from the sealing surface 321.
The plug 3 is manufacturable using any suitable process but is preferably injection moulded and made from a thermoplastic material.
In use, the plug 3 is engageable with the base cap 2 in a fluid-tight sealed configuration, in which the plug 3 provides a fluid-, or liquid-, tight seal with the base cap 2 to close the axial bore B of the base cap 2. In order to achieve this sealed configuration, the plug 3 is inserted into the base cap 2 though the second opening 212 when the base cap 2 is unattached to the container 1. The plug 3 is inserted into the coupling portion 23 of the base cap 2 such that the first snap connectors 34 engage with the overhang 231 of the coupling portion 23.
That is, the lead-in surfaces 343 of the first snap connectors 34 slide over the overhang 231 of the coupling portion 23, causing the first snap connectors 34 to elastically deflect radially inwardly. Once the lead-in surfaces 343 of the first snap connectors 34 are past the overhang 231 of the coupling portion 23 the elasticity in the first snap connectors 34 causes the first snap connectors 34 to return to the undeflected position such that the overhang 231 of the coupling portion 23 is located in the undercuts of the first snap connectors 34. At this point the sealing surface 321 of the sealing ring 32 of the plug 3 abuts the plug seat 232 of the overhang 231. As indicated by Figure 12, the sealing lip 331 has a maximum diameter such that the sealing portion 33 of the plug 3 is urged radially inwardly by abutment with the radially inner surface of the skirt portion 233 of the base cap 2, such that the sealing lip 331 is in fluid-tight contact with the radially inner surface of the skirt portion 233 of the base cap 2. Advantageously, a sealing force between the sealing lip 331 and the radially inner surface of the skirt portion 233 of the base cap 2 is progressively increased as the plug 3 is inserted into the coupling portion 23. This is due to the frustoconical shapes of the sealing portion 33 of the plug 3 and of the skirt portion 233 of the coupling portion 23. Further advantageously, the frustoconical shape of the peripheral portion 312 of the body portion 31 of the plug 3 means that there is not a large recess in which liquid could collect during use.
Referring now to Figure 13 a top view of the dust cap 4 is shown. Figures 14 and 15 show section views along lines AA and SS (shown in Figure 13), respectively. The dust cap 4 has a body portion 41 which is substantially planar and has a substantially circular in-plane shape.
The dust cap 4 has a securing portion 46, which is shown in detail in Figures 16A and 16B. The securing portion 46 extends from a major surface of the body portion 41 of the dust cap 4. The securing portion 46 is annular in shape and a radially outer surface of the securing portion 46 has an abutment band 461 which forms a part of the radially outer surface. The securing portion 46 has a plurality of vents 462 extending through the abutment band 461 in the axial direction of the dust cap 4. The vents 462 are formed by channels, or grooves, through the abutment band 461.
The dust cap 4 has a connection portion 47 extending from the major surface of the body portion 41. The connection portion 47 is annular in shape and is radially inwardly spaced from the securing portion 46 and is substantially concentric therewith. The connection portion 47 has a distal end, the distal end being at the opposite end of the connection portion 47 to the major surface of the body portion 41 of the dust cap 4. A radially outer surface of the connection portion 47 has a connection feature 471 proximal the distal end and extending in, or along, the circumferential direction of the base cap 4. In this example the connection feature 471 is a protrusion from the radially outer surface of the connection portion 47.
In order to connect the dust cap 4 to the base cap 2, the securing portion 46 and the connection portion 47 of the dust cap 4 are inserted into the first opening 211 of the base cap 2. The abutment band 461 of the securing portion 46 abuts a radially inner surface of the outer wall 21 of the base cap 2. The diameter of the abutment band 461 of the dust cap 4 is greater than the diameter of the radially inner surface of the outer wall 21 of the base cap 2, meaning that an interference fit is created between the abutment band 461 and the radially inner surface of the outer wall 21 of the base cap 2, thereby securing the dust cap 4 in the base cap 2. The extent of this interference fit is indicated in Figures 19 and 20 by the overlapping lines of the abutment band 461 and the radially inner surface of the outer wall 21 of the base cap 2. The vents 462 allow gas to egress from inside the axial bore B of the base cap 2 when the dust cap 4 is inserted into the axial bore B. Advantageously, this prevents an overpressure build-up which might resist the insertion of the dust cap 4 into the base cap 2.
In this engaged position, if the plug 3 is engaged with the base cap 2 as described previously, the connection feature 471 of the connection portion 47 of the dust cap 4 engages with the first engagement features 341 of the first snap connectors 34 of the plug 3. This engagement is achieved regardless of if the dust cap 4 is engaged with the base cap 2 before the plug 3 is engaged with the base cap 2, or vice versa. This engagement between the dust cap 4 and the plug 3 has the additional benefit that engagement between the first snap connectors 34 of the plug 3 and the base cap 2 is strengthened, and the first snap connectors 34 are prevented from accidentally disengaging from the base cap 2.
The dust cap 4 has a lifting portion 42 extending from a periphery of the body portion 41. In this example the lifting portion 42 has a first part which is substantially coplanar with the body portion 41 of the dust cap 4, and a second part which protrudes from the first part and is substantially concentric with the connection and securing portions 46, 47. The dust cap 4 has two engagement portions 43 which extend around, and are spaced from, the periphery of the body portion 41. The dust cap 4 has a joining portion 44 extending from the periphery of the body portion 41. In this example the joining portion 44 has a first part which is substantially coplanar with the body portion 41 of the dust cap 4, and a second part which protrudes from the first part and is substantially concentric with the connection and securing portions 46, 47. The joining portion 44 is on a radially opposite side of the body portion 41 to the lifting portion 42.
Each engagement portion 43 is formed of a strip of material having a curved, or arcuate, shape, to surround the corresponding periphery of the body portion 41. Each engagement portion 43 has a radially inner surface 43a. Each engagement portion 43 has a first end which is continuous with the second part of the joining portion 44. Each engagement portion 43 has a second end which is connected to the second part of the lifting portion 42 by a breakable connector 442. The breakable connectors 442 are sacrificial, that is, they are configured to break, or tear, when subjected to a predetermined force. In this way, when the breakable connectors 442 are unbroken, the engagement portions 43 and the second parts of the lifting and joining portions 42, 44 form an annular shape. Each engagement portion 43 has a connection side which is proximal the body portion 41, and a free side which is an opposite side of the engagement portion 43 to the connection side.
The engagement portions 43 have second engagement features 432 in the form of radially inward projections. The second engagement features 432 are shown more clearly in the section detailed view of Figure 17. As can be seen in Figure 17, the second engagement features 432 are radially inward ledges extending from the radially inner surface 43a of the engagement portion 43. In this example the ledges are reinforced by webs extending between a surface of the respective ledge which faces away from the body portion 41, and the radially inner surface 43a of the engagement portion 43 . In this example each engagement portion 43 has three second engagement features 432 which are spaced apart by bridge portions 431. The second engagement portions 432 define the corresponding parts of the free edges of the respective engagement portion 43, and have gaps on the connecting edge side of the ledges. Each bridge portion 431 defines the corresponding part of the free edge of the respective engagement portion 43, and defines the corresponding part of the connecting edge of the respective engagement portion 43. In this way, the gaps on the connecting edge side of the ledges of the second engagement portions 43 are bounded on either circumferential side by bridge portions 431. This advantageously provides flexibility to each engagement portion 43, which is useful for attachment of the dust cap 4 to the base cap 2, and which is also useful for removal of the dust cap 4 from the base cap 2, both of which are explained subsequently.
The dust cap 4 has a first plurality of breakable bridges 441 connecting the bridge portions 431 of the engagement portions 43 to the body portion 41. Each bridge of the first plurality of breakable bridges 441 is sacrificial. That is, each bridge of the first plurality of breakable bridges 441 is configured to break when subjected to a predetermined load. As shown in Figure 18 the breakable connectors 442 are at a circumferential end of each engagement portion 43 to connect the respective bridge portion 43 at the circumferential end of the respective engagement portion 43 to the lifting portion 42. The breakable connectors 442 are formed by material extending between the respective bridge portion 431 and the lifting portion 42 adjacent the connecting edge of the respective engagement portion, and a gap between the respective bridge portion 431 and the lifting portion 42 adjacent the free edge of the respective engagement portion 43. Thereby, the engagement portions 43 are connected to the body portion 41 by the joining portion 44, the first plurality of breakable bridges 441, and the breakable connectors 442.
In this example, the dust cap 4 has a gripping portion 45 which is a strip of material which extends around, and is spaced from, the periphery of the engagement portions 43. The gripping portion 45 is connected, at either end, to the lifting portion 42. The dust cap 4 has a second plurality of breakable bridges 451 connecting the gripping portion 45 to the engagement portion 43. Each bridge of the second plurality of breakable bridges 451 is sacrificial. That is, each bridge of the second plurality of breakable bridges 451 is configured to break when subjected to a predetermined load. The gripping portion 45 is not connected to the joining portion 44. The gripping portion 45 has an outer diameter of D3, wherein D3 is greater than D1 but is less than D2. D1, D2 and D3 are indicated in Figure 21.
Referring now to Figure 19, further engagement between the dust cap 4 and the base cap 2 is shown. This engagement is before the dust cap 3 is removed from the base cap 2 for the first time.
When the dust cap 4 is attached to the base cap 2 for the first time, that is when the securing portion 46 is fully inserted into the axial bore B of the base cap 2 for the first time, the second engagement features 432 are progressively deflected radially outwardly, for example due to rotation which is aided by the flexibility of the engagement portion 43, as they slide over the lead-in surface of the overhang 214a of the outer wall 21 of the base cap 2, until the second engagement features 432 return to enter into the undercut 214b in the outer wall 21 of the base cap 2. In this position the ledge of each second engagement features 432 abut a flat surface of the overhang 214a of the outer wall 21 such that the engagement portion 43 of the dust cap 4 cannot be moved axially relative to the outer wall 21 of the base cap 2.
When the dust cap 4 is engaged with the base cap 2, the engagement portions 43 of the dust cap 4 extend substantially to the external shoulder 215 of the base cap. This prevents the engagement portions 43 from being prised radially outwardly by inserting a tool between the engagement portions 43 and the external shoulder 215, to possibly remove the dust cap 4 from the base cap 2 without evidence of tampering.
In order to remove the dust cap 4 from the base cap 2 for the first time, the region of the gripping portion 45 which is near to the joining portion 44 is lifted away from the engagement portion 43 by a user. The second plurality of breakable bridges 451 are configured to break, before the first plurality of breakable bridges 441 and before the breakable connectors 442, under such loading conditions, and so the gripping portion 45 rotates about the lifting portion 42, for example due to twisting or other deformation of the gripping portion 45. In this way, the gripping portion 45 of the dust cap 4 forms a ring-pull which is advantageously sized such that a gloved finger of an adult user of the cap assembly is likely to be insertable therein. The gripping portion 45 of the dust cap 4 is then lifted away from the base cap 2 such that the lifting portion 42 of the dust cap 2 is lifted away from the base cap 2. This lifting of the lifting portion 42 rotates the lifting portion 42 such that the breakable connectors 442, between the lifting portion 42 and the engagement portions 43, tear. This tearing occurs because of the gap between the respective engagement portion 43 and the lifting portion 42 proximal the free edge of the engagement portion 43. Continued lifting breaks some or all of the first plurality of breakable bridges 441 between the engagement portions 43 and the body portion 41 of the dust cap 4. Breaking of some or all of the first plurality of the breakable bridges 441 and of the breakable connectors 442 allows the engagement portion 43 to move radially outwardly, thereby disengaging the second engagement features 432 of the dust cap 4 from the overhang 214a of the outer wall 21 of the base cap 2. This radially outward movement of the engagement portions 43 is aided by the aforementioned flexibility of each engagement portion 43. Continued lifting of the gripping portion 45 disconnects the connection feature 471 of the connection portion 47 of the dust cap 4 from the first engagement features 341 of the first snap connectors 34 of the plug 3, and removes the abutment band 461 of the securing portion 46 of the dust cap 4 from abutment with the inner surface of the outer wall 21 of the base cap 2, such that the dust cap is completely removable from the base cap 2. The vents 462 on the securing portion 46 of the dust cap 4 also aid in disengagement of the dust cap 4 from the base cap 2 because an under-pressure in the axial bore B of the base cap 2 is avoided, which would act to prevent removal of the dust cap 4 from the base cap 2.
Advantageously, breaking of the first and second plurality of breakable bridges 441, 451 and of the breakable connectors 442 provides evidence of tampering. Further advantageously, the risk of removing the dust cap 4 without leaving evidence of tampering is reduced due to the provision of the first and second plurality of breakable bridges 441, 451 and of the breakable connectors 442.
The dust cap 4 can be re-attached to the base cap 2 by inserting the securing portion 46 and the connection portion 47 of the dust cap 4 into the first opening 211 of the base cap 2. The abutment band 461 of the securing portion 46 abuts the radially inner surface of the outer wall 21 of the base cap 2 to secure the dust cap 4 in the base cap 2, the same as before first removal of the dust cap 4 from the base cap 2. The connection feature 471 of the connection portion 47 of the dust cap engages with the first engagement features 341 of the first snap connectors 34 of the plug 3, also the same as before first removal of the dust cap 4 from the base cap 2.
The dust cap 4 can be manufactured using any suitable technique but is preferably injection moulded and made from a thermoplastic. Advantageously, the dust cap 4 may be injection moulded using just two mould halves, because the breakable bridges 441, 451 extend in a radial direction. This means that there are no undercuts in the axial direction, simplifying the moulding process. For example, further mould tool parts such as sliders are not required, reducing the complexity of moulding the dust cap 4.
In use, when the cap assembly is attached to a container 1 and before the cap assembly has been opened for the first time, the dust cap 4 is removed as described previously. The container, with the base cap 2 and plug 3 still attached, is positioned such that the fluid opening of the container is pointed downwards, and the base cap is attached to a coupler of an agrochemical distribution apparatus (not shown), such as a sprayer tank. The agrochemical distribution apparatus may, for example, be an agrochemical distribution apparatus as known in the art. The coupler is generally annular in shape and has a coupling feature at one end. A male probe is slidably located in a bore of the coupler of the agrochemical distribution system and has a connection feature at the end. The radial engagement feature 214 of the base cap engages with the coupling feature at the end of the coupler of the agrochemical distribution apparatus. The male probe is then pushed into the axial bore B of the base cap 2, until the connection feature of the male probe reaches the plug 3, at which point continued movement of the male probe causes the connection feature to engage with the overhangs 351 of the second snap connectors 35. Continued movement of the male probe disconnects the plug 3 from the base cap 2, thereby allowing fluid from the container 1 to flow around the male probe and into the agrochemical distribution apparatus. The fluid is then able to be distributed, for example sprayed. The plug 3 is re-engaged with the base cap 2 when the male probe is retracted from the container 1, as the engagement between the connection feature of the male probe and the second snap connectors 35 of the plug 3 mean that the plug 3 is forced back into engagement with the coupling portion 23 of the base cap 2.
A further advantage of the design of the cap assembly described herein is shown in Figure 21, which shows two, adjacent cap assemblies. The cap assemblies are adjacent, for example in a filling machine, where containers 1 are filled with fluids and a cap assembly is attached to each container 1 in an automated process. If the cap assemblies become tangled, as in Figure 21, then this can lead to machine downtime. Therefore, the dimensions of the teeth 222, namely that a circle which intersects at least two of the sloped surfaces 222ca has diameter of between D1 and D2, and the outer diameter (D3) of the gripping portion 45 of the dust cap 4 being greater than D1 and less than D2, mean that the dust cap 4 does not enter the axial bore B of the base cap 2 of the adjacent cap assembly, which would lead to tangling with the internal thread 216 of the base cap 2 of the adjacent cap assembly.
The cap assembly disclosed herein has at least the following advantages, which may be synergistic with one another but which may equally be realised independently of some or all of the other advantages:

The damage modes of the TE band 22, when unscrewing the base cap 2 from the container, improve the reliability of the there being evidence of tampering;
Providing multiple, spaced apart, teeth 222c on the TE band 22 means that a consistent moulding thickness is used, which improves the mouldability of the base cap;
The conical shape of the peripheral portion 312 of the body portion 31 of the plug 3 means that the depth of grooves and recesses in the plug 3 are minimised, reducing the likelihood and/or amount of liquid being retained by the plug 3, in use;
Breaking of the first and second plurality of breakable bridges 441, 451 and of the breakable connectors 442 of the dust cap provide evidence of tampering if the dust cap 4 is removed from the base cap 2;
The gripping portion 45 of the dust cap 4 has an outer diameter such that tangling does not occur between adjacent, stacked, cap assemblies;
The gripping portion 45 of the dust cap 4 has a diameter such that it can be ergonomically gripped by a gloved hand;
The dust cap 4 is mouldable without the use of sliders, due to the first and second plurality of breakable bridges 441, 451 and the breakable connectors 442 being aligned radially;
The frustoconical shape of the sealing portion 33 of the plug 3 enhances sealing between the plug 3 and the coupling portion 23 of the base cap;
The frustoconical shape of the skirt portion 233 of the coupling portion 23 of the base cap 2 enhances sealing between the plug 3 and the coupling portion 23 of the base cap, and improves the mouldability of the base cap 2;
Engagement between the plug 3 and the dust cap 4 improves the security of the connection between the first snap connectors 34 of the plug and the overhang 231 of the coupling portion 23 of the base cap 2;
Engagement between the plug 3 and the dust cap 4 means that the dust cap 4 can be secured in place on the base cap 2 even after the first plurality of breakable bridges 441 have been broken;
The length of the engagement portions 43 mean that the engagement portions 43 extend substantially to the external shoulder 215 of the base cap 2, reducing the likelihood that tampering of the dust cap 4 could be achieving by inserting a device between the dust cap 4 and the base cap 2;
The vents 462 on the securing portion 46 of the dust cap 4 prevent an overpressure build up in the axial bore B when the dust cap is inserted into the base cap 2. This makes insertion of the dust cap 4 easier and reduces the likelihood of accidental disengagement of the plug 3 from the base cap 2;
Providing holding threads 241 which have the same pitch as the external thread 216 of the base cap 2 means that the likelihood of damage to the holding threads 241, during injection moulding of the base cap 2, is reduced.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that several variations to the aforementioned embodiments are envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the base cap may not be annular in shape and the plug and dust cap may be omitted. In this case the base cap would have the TE band 22 as described herein. By way of another example, the base cap 2 and plug 3 may be provided, but the dust cap 4 may be omitted. By way of another example, the gripping portion 45 of the dust cap 4 have an external diameter (D3) which is less than D1 but which is greater than the smallest diameter of the internal shoulder 217 of the base cap. In this case, tangling of adjacent, stacked, cap assemblies is still avoided because the dust cap 4 does not contact the internal thread 216 of the adjacent cap assembly. By way of another example, the container has grooves in the neck 12 and/or shoulder 14, which correspond to the teeth 222c of the base cap 2 at one or more particular rotational positions of the base cap 2 with respect to the container 1. In this case, the teeth 222c prevents rotation of the TE band 22 relative to the container, to further encourage disconnection of the outer wall 21 from the TE band 22 at the weakened line 219. It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any number of combinations of the aforementioned features and/or those shown in the appended drawings provide clear advantages over the prior art and are therefore within the scope of the invention described herein.

List of reference numerals

1: Fluid-storing container
11: Fluid opening of the container
12: Neck of the container
13: External thread of the container
14: Shoulder of the container
14a: Lead-in surface of the shoulder of the container
2: Base cap
B: Axial bore
21: Outer wall of the base cap
211: First opening of the outer wall of the base cap
212: Second opening of the outer wall of the base cap
213: Gripping portion of the base cap
214: Radial engagement feature of the base cap
214a: Overhang of the radial engagement feature of the base cap
214b: Undercut of the radial engagement feature of the base cap
215: External shoulder of the base cap
216: Internal thread of the base cap
217: Inner shoulder of the base cap
218: Lower portion of the base cap
219: Weakened line of the base cap
22: Tamper-evident band of the base cap
221: First band portion of the tamper-evident band of the base cap
222: Second band portion of the tamper-evident band of the base cap
222a: First portions of the second band portion
222b: Second portions of the second band portion
222c: Teeth of the second band portion
222ca: Sloped surface of each tooth
222cb: Abutment surface of each tooth
222cd: Apex of each tooth
223: Living hinge of the base cap
224: Opening end of the base cap
23: Coupling portion of the base cap
231: Overhang of the coupling portion
232: Plug seat of the coupling portion
233: Skirt portion of the coupling portion
24: Liner cavity of the base cap
241: Holding threads of the base cap
3: Plug
31: Body portion of the plug
32: Sealing ring of the plug
321: Sealing surface of the sealing ring of the plug
311: Central portion of the body portion of the plug
312: Peripheral portion of the body portion of the plug
33: Sealing portion of the plug
331: Sealing lip of the sealing portion of the plug
332: Reinforcement portion of the sealing portion of the plug
34: First snap connectors of the plug
341: First engagement feature of each first snap connector of the plug
342: Overhang of each first snap connector of the plug
343: Lead-in surface of each first snap connector of the plug
35: Second snap connectors of the plug
351: Overhang of each second snap connector of the plug
352: Lead-in surface of each second snap connector of the plug
4: Dust cap
41: Body portion of the dust cap
42: Lifting portion of the dust cap
43: Engagement portions of the dust cap
43a: Radially inner surface of each engagement portion of the dust cap
431: Bridge portions of the engagement portions of the dust cap
432: Second engagement features of the engagement portions of the dust cap
44: Joining portion of the dust cap
441: First plurality of breakable bridges of the dust cap
442: Breakable connectors of the dust cap
45: Gripping portion of the dust cap
451: Second plurality of breakable bridges of the dust cap
46: Securing portion of the dust cap
461: Abutment band of the securing portion of the dust cap
462: Vents of the securing portion of the dust cap
47: Connection portion of the dust cap
471: Connection feature of the connection portion of the dust cap
5: Annular liner
61: Sliders of the injection moulding machine
611: Moulding surfaces of each slider
62: Core of the injection moulding machine
621: Moulding surfaces of the core
622: Joining surface of the core
63: First main mould part of the injection moulding machine
631: Moulding surfaces of the first main mould part
64: Threaded core of the injection moulding machine
641: Moulding surfaces of the threaded crore
641a: External thread of the threaded core
641b: Internal thread of the threaded core
642: Joining surface of the threaded core
65: Second main mould part of the injection moulding machine
651: Moulding surfaces of the second main mould part
66: Third main mould part of the injection moulding machine
661: Moulding surfaces of the third main mould part

Claims

A cap (2) for a fluid storing container (1), the cap being generally annular in shape and comprising:
an outer wall (21) defining an axial bore (B), the outer wall (21) providing a first opening (211) at one end of the axial bore (B) and a second opening (212) at the other end of the axial bore (B), the outer wall (21) having an internal thread (216) configured to engage with an external thread (13) of a neck (12) of a fluid-storing container (1) when the neck (12) is inserted into the second opening (212); and

an inner portion (23) extending from the outer wall (21) within the axial bore (B), the inner portion (23) being radially spaced from at least a portion of the outer wall (21) such that the neck (12) of the container (1) is receivable in a space between the inner portion (23) and the outer wall (21);

at least one holding thread (241) which protrudes into the space between the inner portion (23) and the outer wall (21) such that an annular liner (5) is receivable in the space between the inner portion (23) and the outer wall (21) of the cap (2), and axially between the at least one holding thread (241) and an axial end of the space between the inner portion (23) and the outer wall (21) of the cap (2), the at least one holding thread (241) having the same pitch as the internal thread (216) on the outer wall (21) of the cap (2).
A cap assembly comprising the cap according to claim 1, wherein the cap (2) is a base cap (2), the cap assembly further comprising an annular liner (5) located or locatable in the space between the inner portion (23) and the outer wall (21) of the base cap (2), and axially between the at least one holding thread (241) and an axial end of the space between the inner portion (23) and the outer wall (21) of the base cap (2).
A cap assembly to claim 2, or a cap assembly comprising a cap (2) according to claim 1, wherein the cap (2) is a base cap (2), wherein the at least one holding thread (241) protrudes from a radially outer surface of the inner portion (23) of the base cap (2).
A cap assembly according to claim 3, wherein the at least one holding thread (241) is a plurality of holding threads (241) which are equally spaced around the circumference of the inner portion (23) of the base cap (2).
A cap assembly to any of claims 2 to 4, or a cap assembly comprising a cap (2) according to claim 1, wherein the cap (2) is a base cap (2), wherein the inner portion (23) of the base cap (2) comprises a skirt portion (233) defining an open end of the inner portion (23), the skirt portion (233) having a substantially frustoconical radially inner surface and wherein the diameter of the radially inner surface of the skirt portion (233) is greatest at the open end of the inner portion (23).
A cap assembly according to claim 5, wherein the skirt portion (233) of the inner portion (23) has a substantially frustoconical radially outer surface and the diameter of the radially outer surface of the skirt portion (233) is greatest at the open end of the inner portion (23).
A cap assembly according to claim 6, wherein the radially outer surface of the inner portion (23) has a substantially frustoconical shape between the skirt portion (233) and the outer wall (21) of the base cap (2), wherein the radially outer surface of the inner portion (23) has a diameter adjacent the outer wall (21) of the base cap (2) which is greater than the diameter adjacent the skirt portion (233).
A cap assembly according to any of claims 5 to 7, wherein the inner portion (23) of the base cap (2) is a coupling portion (23), and the coupling portion (23) comprises an overhang (231) protruding radially inwardly at an end of the skirt portion (233) opposite to the open end of the coupling portion (23), an axial side of the overhang (231) facing the open end of the coupling portion (23) and providing a plug seat (232), wherein the radially inner surface has an internal diameter at the open end of the coupling portion (23) which is greater than the internal diameter at the end adjacent the overhang (231), the overhang (231) being configured to engage with a plug (3) which is configured to close the open end of the coupling potion (23).
A cap assembly according to claim 8, further comprising a plug (3), the plug (3) comprising:
a body portion (31);

a sealing ring (32) around the periphery of the body portion (31), the sealing ring (32) having a sealing surface (321) on one axial side thereof; and

at least one snap connector (34), for example extending from the sealing surface (321) of the sealing ring (32);
wherein, the plug (3) is engageable with the base cap (2) in a sealed configuration, in which the plug (3) provides a fluid-, or liquid-, tight seal with the base cap (2) to close the axial bore (B) of the base cap (2), wherein, in the sealed configuration, the at least one snap connector (34) is engaged with the overhang (231) of the coupling portion (23) and the sealing surface (321) of the sealing ring (32) abuts the plug seat (232) of the overhang (231) of the coupling portion (23).
A cap assembly to any of claims 2 to 9, or a cap assembly comprising a cap (2) according to claim 1, wherein the cap (2) is a base cap (2), the base cap (2) comprising:
a tamper-evident band (22) connected to an edge of the outer wall (21), the tamper evident band (22) comprising:
a first band portion (221) connected to the edge of the outer wall (21) to further define the axial bore (B); and

a second band portion (222) connected to the first band portion (221) by a living hinge (223), the second band portion (222) being foldable about the living hinge (223) between a folded position, in which the second band portion (222) is located inside of the axial bore (B), and an unfolded position, in which the second band portion (222) is located outside of the axial bore (B),

wherein the second band portion (222) is divided, around the circumference thereof, into a first portion (222a) and a second portion (222b), each first and second portion(222a, 222b) having a respective axial length which is a distance from the living hinge (223) to a free end of the respective first or second portion (222a, 222b), the axial length of the first portion (221) being greater than the axial length of the second portion (222), the second band portion (222) comprising at least one tooth (222c) which extends into the axial bore (B) from the second portion (222b) when the second band portion (222) is in the folded position, each of the at least one tooth (222c) having a sloped surface (222ca), an abutment surface (222cb) and an apex (222cd) between the sloped surface (222ca) and the abutment surface (222cb), wherein the axial length of the first portion (221) is greater than the distance between the living hinge (223) and the abutment surface (222cb) of the at least one tooth (222),
wherein the second band portion (222) is configured such that when the second band portion (222) is in the folded position, as the cap (2) is progressively screwed onto the neck (12) of the container (1) the sloped surface (222ca) of each of the at least one tooth (222c) travels over a shoulder (14) on the neck (12) of the container (1) until the apex (222cd) of the at least one tooth (222c) passes the shoulder (14) such that the abutment surface (222cb) of the at least one tooth (222c) faces an axial surface of the shoulder (14), and a face of the first portion (222a) of the second band portion (222) faces a radially outer surface of the shoulder (14).
A fluid storing container assembly comprising:
a cap assembly to any of claims 2 to 10, or a cap assembly comprising a cap (2) according to claim 1, wherein the cap (2) is a base cap (2);

a fluid-storing container (1), the fluid-storing container (1) comprising:
a fluid opening (11);

a neck (12) surrounding the fluid opening (11); and

an external thread (13) located on the neck (12);

an annular liner (5);
wherein the annular liner (5) is located or is locatable in the space between the inner portion (23), or the coupling portion (23), and the outer wall (21) of the base cap (2), and axially between the at least one holding thread (241) and an axial end of the space between the inner portion (23), or coupling portion (23) and the outer wall (21) of the base cap (2), and the internal thread (216) of the base cap (2) is engaged or is engageable with the external thread (13) of the fluid-storing container (1) such that the annular liner (5) provides a fluid-, or liquid-, tight seal with a rim of the neck (12) of the container (1).
A method of manufacturing the base cap (2) of the cap assembly according to any of claim 2 to 11, or of manufacturing a cap (2) according to claim 1, the method comprising:
providing a threaded core (64) comprising an external thread (641a) and an internal thread (641b);

providing at least two mould parts (63, 65, 66), each with a moulding surface which together define an external shape of the cap (2) or base cap (2);

closing the at least two mould parts with the threaded core located in a volume provided by the at least two mould parts, such that a moulding cavity is defined between the mould parts and the threaded core;

injecting molten thermoplastic into the moulding cavity to form the cap (2) or base cap (2);

wherein the threaded core defines both the shape of the internal thread (216) of the base cap (2) and the at least one holding thread (241) of the base cap (2);

opening the moulding parts and rotating, or unscrewing, the threaded core from the moulded cap (2) or base cap (2) such that the threaded core is unscrewed along both the internal thread and the at least one holding thread.