GB2435035A

GB2435035A - Closure device to prevent drink spiking

Info

Publication number: GB2435035A
Application number: GB0602675A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Andrew Smith
Original assignee: ETP CONCEPTS Ltd
Current assignee: ETP CONCEPTS Ltd
Priority date: 2006-02-09
Filing date: 2006-02-09
Publication date: 2007-08-15
Also published as: GB0602675D0

Abstract

The present invention relates to a closure device (1) for a bottle (2). The device (1) comprises first and second members (4, 5) movable from an open position to a closed position for securing the device (1) on a bottle (2). The first and second members (4, 5) define a surface (27) for receiving an adhesive label (3) to retain the first and second members (4, 5) in the closed position and to provide an indication of tampering. The application also relates to a method of attaching a closure device (1) to a bottle (2). The first and second member may be connected by a live hinge (29, 31, Fig 2), the label may be provided with indicia. The device can only be removed from the bottle by tearing the label (3).

Description

A CLOSURE DEVICE

The present invention relates to a closure device for a bottle. More particularly, the present invention relates to a closure device locatable on a bottle after it has been opened for the first time.

The problem of drink spiking, whereby a mind-altering substance is introduced into a person's drink, is becoming increasingly widespread in bars and clubs. Rape, theft and assault are often the motivation for drink spiking. Drugs such as Flunitrazepam, which are colourless, odourless and tasteless, are commonly used since they remain undetected when dissolved. Although certain manufacturers have added dyes to aid detection of certain drugs, counterfeit versions are available which do not include the dye. It will be appreciated that alcohol and other substances may also be used to spike drinks.

There is an increasing range of beverages, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic, sold in bottles. The beverages are often drunk directly from the bottle. The bottles are frequently made from coloured glass and/or provided with a plastic cover or label and this makes it more difficult to detect whether a substance has been added to the beverage. There are several devices currently available to counter drink spiking of bottled beverages.

One device is distributed under the trade name Spikey by R & G Products, Unit 15, AIfold Business Centre, Loxwood Road, Alfold, Surrey GU6 8HP, United Kingdom. This device is introduced into the neck of the bottle and a straw is inserted into the bottle through an opening in the device. The opening is just big enough to accommodate the straw and the ability for a substance to be introduced into the bottle is thereby reduced.

Another known device is the SafefloTM device distributed by Safeflo (UK) Limited of 48-52 Penny Lane, Mossley Hill, Liverpool, L18 1DG, United Kingdom.

This device is a cap which is fitted over the top or the bottle and comes in two versions. A first version of the device is provided with a grill to allow an individual to drink from the neck of the bottle; and a second version is provided with an opening for receiving a straw.

A further device is the Alcotop device described on the website www.alcotop.co.uk. This device comprises a hoop portion for locating around the neck of the bottle. A cap for closing the mouth of the bottle is connected to the hoop portion.

Although these devices go some way to preventing substances being introduced into the bottle, there remain limitations with each of them. Most notably, the devices are not suitable for providing an indication that tampering has occurred if the bottle is left unattended. For example, the straw may be removed from both the Spikey and SafefloTM devices and a substance introduced through the opening. Equally, the cap on the Alcotop device may be opened and a substance introduced through the neck of the bottle if it is left unattended.

A further problem with devices which are located in the neck of the bottle is that they reduce the effective diameter of the neck. Drinks such beer and carbonated drinks (particularly if agitated or chilled) will attempt to out-gas through the reduced diameter opening, forcing liquid out of the neck of the bottle.

Furthermore, devices located in the neck of the bottle are undesirable since it is difficult to remove them for recycling.

The present invention, at least in preferred embodiments, sets out to ameliorate or overcome at least some of the limitations of known devices.

Viewed form a first aspect, the present invention relates to a closure device for a bottle, the device comprising first and second members movable from an open position to a closed position for securing the device on a bottle; the first and second members defining a surface for receiving an adhesive label to retain the first and second members in said closed position. The first and second members preferably at least partially obstruct the mouth of the bottle. Thus, the device makes it more difficult for an individual to introduce a substance into the bottle.

The application of an adhesive label to the surface retains the first and second members in said closed position. An attempt to remove the closure device will result in the adhesive label being torn or damaged and this provides an indication that tampering has occurred. Thus, at least in preferred embodiments, the closure device according to the present invention is a tamper-evidencing device. It is envisaged that an adhesive label would be applied if the bottle is to be left unattended for a period of time.

The device may be used as a temporary closure device without applying an adhesive label. At least in preferred embodiments, the device may be applied and removed quickly and easily. This kind of use would provide additional protection from drink spiking, for example, while someone is drinking from the bottle.

The first and second members are preferably provided around the outside of the bottle neck. Thus, the effective diameter of the neck of the bottle is not reduced and the problems associated with out-gassing are avoided. Furthermore, at least in preferred embodiments, the device does not form a fluid-tight seat with the mouth of the bottle.

The device may be permanently located around the neck of the bottle, the first and second members being movable to said open position to locate the device over the mouth of the bottle. Preferably, however, the device is removably locatable on a bottle when the first and second members are in said open position.

Thus, the device may be re-used and the bottle recycled employing conventional techniques.

The first and second members are preferably spaced apart from each other when they are in said open position to allow the device to be located over the neck of a bottle. When they are moved to said closed position, the first and second members preferably abut each other.

The surface defined by the first and second members for receiving an adhesive label is defined when the members are in said closed position. The surface defined by the first and second members is preferably substantially continuous. When the device is located on a bottle, the surface defined by the first and second members could be provided over a sidewall of the neck of the bottle, but is preferably located over the mouth of the bottle. This arrangement is advantageous since the application of an adhesive label provides an additional barrier at least partially obstructing the mouth of the bottle.

The surface defined by the first and second members may be substantially planar. Preferably, however, at least part of said surface comprises a lip on the first member and/or a lip on the second member. Preferably the lip on the first member and/or the lip on the second member define(s) an acute angle with the associated edge of the first member and/or the second member. A ridge is preferably defined across the surface. When the first and second members are moved from their closed position towards their open position, this arrangement advantageously promotes tearing of an adhesive label adhered to the surface.

The device may be suitable for use with screw-cap bottles. Preferably, however, the device is suitable for use on a bottle sealed with a bottle cap. The bottle cap may be of the type pressed over a flange provided at the top of the bottle; or a twist-off bottle cap pressed around screw threads instead of a flange.

The device is suitable for use after the bottle has been opened for the first time, typically after a bottle cap has been removed from the bottle.

The first member preferably comprises a first cylindrical portion cooperable with the neck of a bottle. The first member preferably further comprises a first end-piece for at least partially obstructing the mouth of a bottle. The first end-piece preferably defines a portion of the surface for receiving an adhesive label.

A first flange is preferably provided for engaging the neck of a bottle. The first flange is preferably locatable under the rim of the bottle or over screw-threads provided for retaining a bottle cap in place. The first flange is preferably provided on the inside of the first cylindrical portion.

The second member preferably comprises a second cylindrical portion cooperable with the neck of a bottle. The second member preferably further comprises a second end-piece for at least partially obstructing the mouth of a bottle. The second end-piece preferably defines a portion of the surface for receiving an adhesive label.

A second flange is preferably provided for engaging the neck of a bottle.

The second flange is preferably locatable under the rim of the bottle or over screw-threads provided for retaining a bottle cap in place. The second flange is preferably provided on the inside of the second cylindrical portion.

The first and second members are preferably connected to each other by at least one hinge and the at least one hinge is preferably a live hinge.

The first and second members are preferably biased towards said closed position. This arrangement is desirable since, in use, the device positively locates itself in position on the neck of the bottle.

The present invention further relates to a closure device as described herein in combination with at least one adhesive label applicable to the surface defined by the first and second members. Indicia are preferably provided on said at least one adhesive label.

A plurality of adhesive labels is preferably provided on a single sheet. The adhesive labels on the sheet may all be provided with different indicia; or the adhesive labels on the same sheet may all be provided with the same indicia. At least one matching indicia is preferably printed on the sheet for reference purposes.

The at least one adhesive label is preferably a security label. Labels of this type typically disintegrate if an attempt is made to remove them. Thus, the adhesive label cannot be removed from the device in a single piece and then returned to the device after the closure member has been opened. The label may, for example, be made of ultra thin PVC.

Viewed from a further aspect, the present invention relates to a member locatable over a mouth of a bottle and an adhesive label for securing the member in position. Any attempt to remove the member will result in damage to the adhesive label and this will provide evidence of tampering. This simplified arrangement is believed to be patentable independently.

Viewed from a still further aspect, the present invention relates to a closure device for a bottle, the device comprising a member locatable on the neck of a bottle and a closable cap for at least partially obstructing the mouth of a bottle; wherein the member and the cap define a surface for receiving an adhesive label to secure the cap in a closed position.

Viewed from a yet further aspect, the present invention relates to a method of attaching a closure device to a bottle, the device comprising first and second members movable from an open position to a closed position; the method comprising the steps of: (a) locating the device over the mouth of the bottle; (b) moving the first and second members to said closed position; and (C) applying an adhesive label over the first and second members to retain them in said closed position. The device is typically located over the mouth of the bottle after the bottle has been opened for the first time.

Viewed form a still further aspect, the present invention relates to a method of attaching a closure device to a bottle, the method comprising the steps of: (a) providing a member at least partially to obstruct the mouth of the bottle; and (b) applying an adhesive label to retain the member in position. The member is preferably provided after the bottle has been opened for the first time.

Viewed from a yet still further aspect, the present invention relates to a closure device for a bottle, the device comprising an adhesive label locatable over the mouth of the bottle. It is envisaged that this device could be supplied with the bottle, for example as part of a label applied to the neck of the bottle. To avoid the problems associated with out-gassing, a valve may be provided to allow gas to vent from the bottle. The label is preferably made of a suitable tamper-evidencing material, such as ultra thin PVC. This device is believed to be patentable independently.

Viewed from a further aspect, the present invention relates to a method of closing a bottle comprising the step of applying an adhesive label over the mouth of the bottle. The adhesive label may be provided with a valve to allow venting of gas from the bottle.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying Figures, in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the closure device according to the present invention; Figure 2 shows a first side view of the closure device; Figure 3 shows a second side view of the closure device; Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view along line AA of Figure 3; Figure 5 shows the closure device from the first side mounted on a beverage bottle; Figure 6 shows the closure device from the second side mounted on a beverage bottle; and Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the closure device mounted on a beverage bottle.

A closure device 1 in accordance with the present invention is shown in Figure 1. The device 1 is located on a beverage bottle 2 (only the neck of which is shown in Figures 1 to 4 for clarity) after the bottle has been opened for the first time. An adhesive label 3 is applied to the device 1 to secure it in position on the bottle. The device 1 can only be removed from the bottle by tearing the adhesive label 3 and this provides an indication that tampering has occurred. The adhesive labels 3 are provided with indicia to prevent them being removed or torn and then replaced.

The device 1 comprises a first member 4 and a second member 5 hingedly connected to each other. The device I is injection moulded from a plastics material.

The first member 4 comprises a first cylindrical portion 7 and a first semicircular end piece 9. First and second legs 11, 13 are disposed on opposite sides of the first cylindrical portion 7. The second member 5 comprises a second cylindrical portion 15 and a second semicircular end piece 17. Third and fourth legs 19, 21 are disposed on opposite sides of the second cylindrical portion 15.

First and second semicircular areas 23, 25 are provided on the first and second end pieces 9, 17 respectively to define a circular surface 27 for receiving the adhesive label 3. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the adjacent edges of the first and second semicircular areas 23, 25 project upwardly to form first and second raised lips 24, 26 respectively. The first and second lips 24, 26 define a ridge transecting the circular surface 27.

The distal ends of the first leg 11 and the third leg 19 are connected to form a first live hinge 29, as shown in Figure 4. Similarly, the distal ends of the second leg 13 and the fourth leg 21 are connected to form a second live hinge 31. The first and second live hinges 29, 31 enable the first and second members 4, 5 to move relative to each other between an open position and a closed position. The live hinges 29, 31 preferably bias the first and second members 4, 5 towards the closed position. In the closed position the first and second end pieces 9, 17 abut each other; and in the open position the first and second end pieced 9, 17 are spaced apart from each other.

As shown in Figure 3, first and second flanges 33, 35 are provided on the inside of the first and second members 4, 5 respectively for engaging the underside of a flange 36 formed at the neck of the bottle 2. The first and second flanges 33, 35 each extend partway around the circumference of the inside of the first and second cylindrical portions 7, 15 respectively.

First and second rectangular openings 37, 39 are preferably provided in the first and second cylindrical portions 7, 15 respectively. The openings 37, 39 are provided to allow venting of gas from the bottle. A series of projections (not shown) are provided on the inside of the first and second end pieces 9, 17 to prevent the end pieces 9, 17 resting on the rim of the bottle and forming a seal.

This advantageously prevents the build up of pressure in the bottle.

The device 1 is located over the neck of a bottle by moving the first and second members 4, 5 to their open position. The first and second flanges 33, 35 locate under the rim of the bottle to position the device on the bottle. The first and second members 4, 5 are then allowed to return to their closed position under the action of the spring bias provided by the live hinge 29 such that the mouth of the bottle is obstructed. As shown in Figures 5, 6 and 7, the first and second members 4, 5 are secured in the closed position by applying the adhesive label 3 to the surface 27 defined by the first and second raised areas 23, 25. The device 1 cannot be removed from the bottle whilst the first and second members 4, 5 are in their closed position.

The device 1 can only be removed from the bottle by moving the first and second members 4, 5 to the open position. However, the adhesive label 3 on the surface 27 retains the first and second members 4, 5 in the closed position. Thus, unless the adhesive label 3 is torn or removed, the device I cannot be removed from the bottle. By checking the condition of the adhesive label 3 it is relatively straightforward for someone to determine whether tampering has occurred.

The adhesive label 3 applied to the surface 27 is preferably a tamper evident or security label. These labels are made of ultra-thin polyvinylchloride, typically with an acrylic adhesive. Any attempt to remove these labels causes them to tear, thereby preventing them from being removed in one piece. A supplier of suitable adhesive labels 3 is Abacas Studios of Christchurch Business Centre, Grange Road, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 4JD, United Kingdom.

Although the indicia provided on the adhesive labels 3 do not have to be unique, adhesive labels 3 with a range of indicia are preferably available. This makes it more difficult for an individual to remove the adhesive label 3 and then replace it with an adhesive label having the same indicia. The indicia printed on the adhesive labels 3 may be changed periodically, for example as part of different promotions, to reduce further the likelihood of an individual having a matching adhesive label 3. Of course, personalised or unique indicia may be printed on the adhesive labels 3 to provide additional security.

The present invention thereby provides a closure device I suitable for closing a bottle and, in use, providing evidence of tampering. Although leaving a bottle unattended is not encouraged, at least in preferred embodiments the device 1 should provide some peace of mind.

The device 1 also provides a useful surface to display branding, such as logos or brand names. The brand name of a beverage company could, for example, be printed or embossed on the first and second members 4, 5. Equally, the adhesive labels 3 could form part of a particular drinks promotion. The indicia on the adhesive labels 3 could advertise a particular brand, for example by displaying a company name, logo, image or other display.

It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications may be made to the closure device described herein without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the device could be produced in a range of different sizes to fit bottles of different types and sizes. For example, an enlarged version could be provided to be fitted to wine bottles.

Claims

CLAIMS: 1. A closure device for a bottle, the device comprising first

and second members movable from an open position to a closed position for securing the device on a bottle; the first and second members defining a surface for receiving an adhesive label to retain the first and second members in said closed position.

2. A closure device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device is removably locatable on a bottle when the first and second members are in said open position.

3. A closure device as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first and second members are spaced apart from each other when they are in said open position.

4. A closure device as claimed in any one of claims 1, 2 or 3, wherein the first and second members abut each other when they are in said closed position.

5. A closure device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the surface defined by the first and second members is substantially continuous.

6. A closure device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the surface defined by the first and second members is substantially planar.

7. A closure device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a portion of the surface for receiving an adhesive label is raised.

8. A closure device as claimed in claim 7, wherein at least part of said raised portion is defined by a lip on the first member.

9. A closure device as claimed in claim 7 or claim 8, wherein at least part of said raised portion is defined by a lip on the second member.

10. A closure device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein, when the device is located on a bottle, the surface defined by the first and second members is located over the mouth of the bottle.

II. A closure device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first member comprises a first cylindrical portion cooperable with the neck of a bottle.

12. A closure device as claimed in claim 11, wherein the first member comprises a first end-piece for at least partially obstructing the mouth of a bottle.

13. A closure device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein a first flange is provided for engaging the neck of a bottle.

14. A closure device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein said second member comprises a second cylindrical portion cooperable with the neck of a bottle.

15. A closure device as claimed in claim 14, wherein the second member comprises a second end-piece for at least partially obstructing the mouth of a bottle.

16. A closure device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein a second flange is provided for engaging the neck of a bottle.

17. A closure device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second members are connected to each other by at least one hinge.

IS. A closure device as claimed in claim 17, wherein said at least one hinge is a live hinge.

19. A closure device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second members are biased towards said closed position.

20. A closure device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device is for use on a bottle having an annular flange for receiving a bottle cap.

21. A closure device as claimed in claim 20, wherein the device is for use after a bottle cap has been removed from a bottle.

22. A closure device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in combination with at least one adhesive label applicable to the surface defined by the first and second members.

23. A closure device in combination with at least one adhesive label as claimed in claim 22, wherein indicia are provided on said at least one label.

24. A closure device in combination with at least one adhesive label as claimed in claim 23, wherein a plurality of adhesive labels is provided and different indicia are provided on each of said adhesive labels.

25. A closure device in combination with at least one adhesive label as claimed in claim 22, 23 or 24, wherein the at least one label is provided on a card with matching indicia.

26. A closure device in combination with at least one adhesive label as claimed in claim 22 to 25, wherein said at least one adhesive label is a security label.

27. A set of adhesive labels for use with a closure device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the adhesive labels are each provided with different indicia.

28. A set of adhesive labels for use with a closure device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the adhesive labels are each provided with the same indicia.

29. A set of adhesive labels as claimed in claim 27 or claim 28, wherein the set of adhesive labels is provided on a sheet with at least one matching indicia.

30. A closure device for a bottle, the device comprising a member locatable over a mouth of a bottle and an adhesive label for securing the member in position.

31. A closure device for a bottle, the device comprising a member locatable on the neck of a bottle and a closable cap for at least partially obstructing the mouth of a bottle; wherein the member and the cap define a surface for receiving an adhesive label to secure the cap in a closed position.

32. A method of attaching a closure device to a bottle, the device comprising first and second members movable from an open position to a closed position; the method comprising the steps of: (a) locating the device over the mouth of the bottle; (b) moving the first and second members to said closed position; and (c) applying an adhesive label over the first and second members to retain them in said closed position.

33. A method as claimed in claim 32, wherein the device is located over the mouth of the bottle after the bottle has been opened.

34. A method of attaching a closure device to a bottle, the method comprising the steps of: (a) providing a member at least partially to obstruct the mouth of the bottle; and (b) applying an adhesive label to retain the member in position.

35. A method as claimed in claim 34, wherein the member is provided after the bottle has been opened.

36. A closure device for a bottle, the device comprising an adhesive label locatable over the mouth of the bottle.

37. A closure device as claimed in claim 36 further comprising a valve for allowing gas to vent from the bottle.

38. A closure device as claimed in claim 36 or claim 37, wherein the adhesive label is provided with indicia.

39. A method of closing a bottle comprising the step of applying an adhesive label over the mouth of the bottle.

40. A closure device substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.