JP2021167225A - Screw cap rotation assisting tool - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide means for improving rotation operability.SOLUTION: A screw cap rotation assisting tool provides torque in opening and/or closing directions to a screw cap and includes: a fitting ring part capable of fitting on an outer peripheral surface of a body cylinder part of the screw cap, the fitting ring part having a spinning prevention part which is provided in a fitting part and may engage in a circumferential direction; an operation part which is disposed at an outer periphery of the fitting ring part and extends along the outer periphery from a base end to a tip; and a first hinge part which connects the operation part with the outer periphery and rotatably supports the operation part at the base end of the operation part or near the base end. The fitting ring part is formed with a separation prevention mechanism which prevents separation from an outer peripheral surface of the screw cap. The operation part is configured to be shifted between a first configuration form in which the operation part is placed close to the outer periphery so as to be along the outer periphery and a second configuration form in which the operation part is rotated with the first hinge part set as a supporting point and the tip is separated from the outer periphery and deployed in a diameter expanding direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a rotation assisting mechanism that assists the rotation of a rotating body rotatably provided in a container or the like, and is particularly used for a neck finish of a container and is configured to be openable by rotation. Rotation to facilitate the opening of a rotary opening type plug body or a screw cap that can be opened and closed with a spiral structure on the inner peripheral surface that can be opened or closed depending on the direction of rotation. It relates to an auxiliary mechanism, and particularly to a screw cap rotation assisting tool.

As an example of a rotating body that is rotatably provided in a container or the like, a glue stick that is widely used as a stationery can be mentioned. The stick glue comprises a rotating body in which the lower end of the stick glue body is inserted into a cup, the cup is housed in a tubular case, and is arranged so as to be relatively rotatable so as to close one end of the tubular case. The cup is configured to be movable in the axial direction by the rotational operation of the rotating body, and the stick glue main body is configured to freely appear and disappear from the open end of the cylindrical case with the axial movement. This type of glue stick is difficult to use for those who have almost no grip strength because there is no part for hooking fingers or the like.

In addition, containers containing viscous fluid detergents such as shampoos, conditioners and treatments, hair wash agents and liquid detergents, and foods and drinks such as seasonings, favorite beverages and soft drinks are used by many users. For example, a wide-mouthed glass bottle is used to store jam as a container for a viscous fluid containing sugar such as jam. A screw cap made of metal and having a large radius is often used to open and close the glass bottle. However, in a glass container for jams equipped with a screw cap mechanism, once used, a screw cap with a large radius is used because highly viscous sugar or the like easily adheres between the container opening and the lid. Despite the fact that is adopted, there is a problem that a strong force is often required to open and close it. In addition, detergent bottles containing viscous fluid detergent such as shampoo are often used in water areas such as bathrooms and washrooms, and are wet when refilling the detergent content. It is not uncommon for the hands to slip, and it may be difficult to open the bottle stopper.

Patent Document 1 is an invention of a screw cap that prevents the virgin portion from remaining in the bottle mouth portion to prevent unauthorized opening and makes it difficult to break the bridge of the easily broken portion when the bottle is closed and makes it easy to break when the bottle is opened. The virgin cap is known. ing. In this virgin cap, a cylindrical ring having a vertical slit formed is continuously provided at an opening of the cap body via an easily broken portion and a non-breaking connecting portion to form a concave portion or a convex portion in the vicinity of the cap main body. The concave portion or the convex portion is provided with a movement stopper, and the concave portion or the convex portion and the non-breaking connecting portion are positioned so as to be sandwiched between both sides of the vertical slit.

In addition, when the tubular ring is engaged with the bead of the bottle by screwing with the bottle mouth of this virgin cap, the force to widen the vertical slit when the cap is closed acts on the stopper directly or via the lateral bridge. The vertical slit does not widen, and the easily breakable connecting portion that connects the cap body and the tubular ring is not cut. Further, in this virgin cap, when the cap body is rotated in the opening direction, the easily breakable connecting portion between the cap body and the tubular ring is broken, but the non-breaking connecting portion is not broken, and the cap body and the tubular shape are not broken. It is configured so that the ring and the ring come out of the bottle mouth together.

In addition to being disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example, a PET bottle in which a screw cap mechanism is formed in a resin bottle made of polyethylene terephthalate and a resin cap made of polyethylene or polypropylene is screwed is used for beverages. Has been widely adopted in recent years. Most PET bottles are Tamper evidence containers with an integrally molded Tamper Evident Band (cylindrical ring, virgin part) that connects to the bottom of the resin cap with a thin bridge. Is.

The tamper evidence band has a structure in which even if the resin cap is rotated in the opening direction, it is restrained by the bottle side and cannot rotate in the opening direction. When the resin cap is opened for the first time, the bridge connected until then is cut. .. Moreover, since the tamper evidence band can easily and clearly visually discriminate whether it is connected or disconnected with the naked eye of the consumer, the tamper evidence property is ensured. Tamper evidence refers to a function that prevents unauthorized opening or guarantees virginity.

In other words, if the tamper evidence band is connected to the bottom of the resin cap with a bridge, the contents are unopened and the quality is guaranteed, but if the bridge is broken, it is opened and other than the final consumer. If someone has opened the cap, it is clearly stated that considerable consideration should be given to the quality of the contents. Hereinafter, including this type of resin cap, the term "screw cap" will be used in this case.

As described above, the screw cap mechanism constitutes a screw-type openable and closable lid stopper at the spout portion, that is, the container opening in a container such as a plastic bottle or a glass bottle such as a PET bottle. This screw cap mechanism includes an engaging receiving portion formed spirally on the outer peripheral surface of the spout portion, a screw cap screwed into the engaging receiving portion and configured to open and close the spout portion. It is composed of. The screw cap is composed of a body cylinder portion having an engaging portion formed on the inner peripheral surface and a closing portion that closes one end side thereof. Containers equipped with a spout portion of a screw cap mechanism are used in a wide range of containers because of their high airtightness and their ability to be opened and closed repeatedly.

The PET bottle cap standard is not stipulated by international standards such as JIS, ISO, and ASME, but is stipulated by a voluntary standard voluntarily set by the beverage packaging container industry group. This standard does not specify only "screws", but covers the entire shape of the spout. Currently, the standards used in Japan are generally the "Alcoa 1716 standard" and "PCO 1810 standard", which mainly correspond to the diameter of φ28 mm. Both are enacted and managed by the US CMA.

PET bottles are required to have a high degree of airtightness because they must cope with an increase in internal pressure due to a temperature rise in a container such as a carbonated drink or a gas space in a container. Therefore, a reliable closing force is required for the cap of the container opening of the PET bottle. On the other hand, since the PET bottle cap gives priority to ease of drinking, the outer diameter of the container opening is small in relation to the size of the lips of the drinker, and the outer diameter of the cap is naturally small. As a result, the moment of force is disadvantageous, and the torque required for opening the cap in the opening direction becomes considerably large.

In particular, in the case of the first opening of an unopened PET bottle, a rotational torque for breaking the integrated connection portion between the screw cap and the tamper evidence band, that is, the bridge is also required. These causes synergize with the problem that children and women, the elderly and the sick, or those with a physical handicap may not be able to open the unopened PET bottle for the first time. There was a problem that it was difficult to open and close after opening.

As a thing corresponding to such a problem of the conventional screw cap mechanism, for example, there is an opening assisting tool as disclosed in Patent Document 2. It is a thick rubber band-like opening aid with a closed curve as a whole and a non-slip formed on the inner peripheral surface. With this opening aid, the outer peripheral surface of the screw cap is surrounded by a part or all of the rubber band-like part and tightened while exerting a non-slip effect, so that the screw is screwed by the thickness of the rubber band-like part. By increasing the radius of gyration of the cap, the force required to open and close the screw cap can be reduced.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2006-182357 Registered Utility Model No. 3048082 WO2009 / 113321

However, the rubber band-like opening aid of Patent Document 2 is used by tightening the body cylinder portion of the screw cap from the outer peripheral surface. Therefore, the inner peripheral surface of the screw cap and the engaging portion formed on the inner peripheral surface are strongly tightened to the outer peripheral surface of the container opening and the engaging receiving portion formed on the outer peripheral surface, and the frictional force is enhanced. However, there was a problem that the force required for opening and closing was increased. In particular, in the case of a plastic screw cap, the barrel portion of the screw cap is easily deformed in the diameter direction, so that the barrel portion that is strongly tightened and has a reduced diameter significantly increases the frictional force with the container opening. However, there is a problem that the force required to open and close the screw cap becomes large.

As a thing corresponding to the problem of the rubber band-like opening assisting tool of Patent Document 2, for example, a screw cap rotation assisting mechanism as disclosed in Patent Document 3 (hereinafter, "mechanism of Document 3", or simply There was a "mechanism"). This mechanism has a connecting portion that is attached to the screw cap and one end of which rotates integrally with the screw cap, and a rotation assisting portion that is connected to this connecting portion. It is located close to the screw cap and can be separated from the screw cap during rotation to create a large diameter part that rotates integrally with the screw cap, while the rotational force required for the rotation operation of the screw cap is smaller. It is configured so that it can be.

Since the mechanism of Document 3 is removable, it can be used repeatedly at low cost, and the bottle product and the mechanism of Document 3 are sold separately, for example, in a product form (hereinafter, also referred to as "detachable type"). In this case, the separately sold mechanism may be attached to the screw cap by the final consumer of the bottle product (more accurately, the person who opens the bottle) to assist the rotation (opening and / or closing). It is possible.

Such a "detachable" mechanism is configured so that the connecting portion fitted to the screw cap is elastically deformed to some extent so that it can be easily attached and detached. The reason is that people who need opening assistance have weak hands. In other words, if the "detachable" mechanism needs to be retrofitted as an option, even if it is obtained by a person with weak hands, if it cannot be easily attached to the screw cap, it will assist in opening the cap. This is because it is useless. As described above, the mechanism that is easy to attach is often easy to remove.

On the other hand, there is also a desire for the final consumer, who has weak hand power, to save the trouble of attaching the separately sold opening assist mechanism to the screw cap. Therefore, it is conceivable to distribute and sell bottle products that are previously attached to screw caps at bottling factories and the like. In that case, after being fitted to the screw cap once (hereinafter, also referred to as "fitted state"), it should be distributed to the final consumer as if it were integrated with the bottle product without removing it. A product form (hereinafter, also referred to as "integrated type") is desired. In the case of such an "integrated type", it is necessary to devise a way to prevent it from coming out of the "fitted state" during distribution from a bottling factory or the like to the hands of the final consumer. Further, in the opening assist mechanism of Patent Document 3, the other end side of the connecting portion in the lever portion is a free end that can be separated from the body cylinder portion of the screw cap, but these extend from the connecting portion to the free end of the lever portion. Even if the series is configured so that there is no problem in terms of strength, it is possible to make the user feel psychologically intense anxiety, and in some cases, it is desirable to devise so as not to give psychological anxiety.

The present invention has been made in view of such a problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a rotation assisting mechanism that assists the rotation of a rotating body rotatably provided in a container or the like. In addition, we provide a screw cap rotation aid suitable for the "integrated type" product form, in which the screw cap is fitted to the cylinder body of the screw cap at a stage close to the bottling process, integrated into the bottle product, and then distributed. To do. Another object of the present invention is to provide a rotating body with a rotation assisting mechanism, which is provided with a rotation assisting mechanism in advance for a rotating body such as a screw cap, and / or a screw cap with a rotation assisting mechanism.

The screw cap rotation assisting tool of the present invention is a screw cap rotation assisting tool that applies torque in the opening and / or closing directions to the screw cap, and can be fitted to the outer peripheral surface of the body cylinder portion of the screw cap. An operation that is provided on the fitting portion and has a slip prevention portion that can be engaged in the circumferential direction, and an operation that is arranged on the outer circumference of the fitting portion and extends along the outer circumference from the base end to the tip end. A first hinge portion that connects the operation portion and the outer circumference and rotatably supports the operation portion is provided at the base end of the operation portion or in the vicinity of the base end, and the fitting portion is provided. The ring portion is formed with a detachment prevention mechanism for preventing the screw cap from detaching from the outer peripheral surface, and the operation portion has a first fulcrum form in which the screw cap is brought close to the outer circumference and the first hinge portion. The operation unit is rotated as a fulcrum so that the tip can be separated from the outer circumference and transition to the second coordination form developed in the diameter-expanding direction.

Further, the detachment prevention mechanism is provided on the inner peripheral side of the ring portion and / or the lower end portion of the ring portion.

Further, the average height of the detachment prevention mechanism is set to half or less of the height of the cylinder body portion, and the lower end side of the fitting ring portion is configured to be coordinateable in the vicinity of the opening edge of the screw cap. It is characterized by.

Further, the fitting ring portion has a first hinge forming portion provided with the first hinge portion, and the first hinge forming portion is widened in the axial direction, and the average height of the fitting ring portion is widened. It is characterized by having a widening portion in which the length in the axial direction is set longer than that of the halfbeak.

Further, the ring-fitting portion is characterized in that the wall thickness of the first hinge forming portion and its periphery thereof is set to be thicker than that of other portions in the circumferential direction of the ring-fitting portion.

Further, as the detachment prevention mechanism, the fitting ring portion is set so that its inner diameter gradually narrows from the upper part to the lower part.

Further, as the detachment prevention mechanism, the fitting ring portion is set so that its wall thickness gradually increases from the upper part to the lower part.

Further, as the disengagement prevention mechanism, an engaging portion that engages with the screw cap to prevent disengagement in the height direction is provided on the inside of the fitting ring portion in a convex shape toward the inside in the radial direction. It is characterized in that it is provided continuously or intermittently or partially in a direction.

Further, as the disengagement prevention mechanism, an engaging portion that engages with the screw cap to prevent disengagement in the height direction is formed in the lower portion of the fitting ring portion.

Further, the detachment prevention mechanism engages with the screw cap provided inside the fitting ring portion in a radial inward direction and continuously, intermittently or partially in the circumferential direction. An engaging portion that prevents disengagement in the height direction engages with an engaging receiving portion on the circumference that is continuously or intermittently provided at the middle portion and / or the lower end portion of the barrel portion of the screw cap. It is characterized in that it is composed by combining.

Further, one end is connected to the tip of the rigid portion of the operating portion, and the other end is connected via a second hinge portion on the outer periphery of the fitting ring portion, and the operating portion having the first hinge portion as a fulcrum. It is characterized by having a connecting band formed so as to be stretchable between the tip of the rigid portion and the second hinge portion with the rotation of the above.

Further, the connecting band is characterized in that it extends in a substantially tangential direction of the outer peripheral surface of the screw cap with the second hinge portion as a contact point at the time of extension.

The connecting band is substantially C-shaped, substantially J-shaped, or substantially L, which is an extension of the operating portion in the circumferential direction or warped so as to overlap the operating portion when the operating portion is in the first coordination form. Glyph, approximately M-shaped, approximately N-shaped, approximately S-shaped, approximately U-shaped, approximately V-shaped, approximately W-shaped, approximately Z-shaped, approximately m-shaped, approximately n-shaped, approximately r-shaped, approximately inverted V-shaped, approximately π-shaped , Abbreviated Σ-shaped, abbreviated Y-shaped, abbreviated Ω-shaped, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, etc. It is characterized in that it is configured to be in a bent shape (a posture in an unextended state) composed of a bent shape or a combination thereof.

Further, the wall thickness of the connecting band is set to be thinner than the average wall thickness of the operating portion.

Further, an appropriate portion inside the operation portion has an easily cut portion that connects the inner portion of the operation portion and the outer circumference of the fitting ring portion when not in use and can be torn relatively easily when in use. It is characterized by that.

Further, a fitting portion for stably holding the operation portion with respect to the outer circumference is provided at an appropriate portion inside the operation portion and at the opposite portion of the outer circumference facing the appropriate portion. It is characterized by that.

Further, the fitting ring portion is characterized in that a through or non-penetrating lightening hole is provided on the front and back surfaces.

Further, the fitting ring portion is characterized in that an attracting portion formed by gradually expanding the diameter of the lower opening portion downward is provided.

Further, the fitting ring portion is characterized by having two or more widening portions including a first hinge widening portion and a second hinge widening portion provided by widening upward and / or downward.

Further, both the first hinge widening portion and the second hinge widening portion have a tapered shape whose tip side is thinner than the proximal end side, and the diameter of the virtual inscribed circle connecting these widening portions is large on the distal end side and the proximal end. It is characterized by a small side.

According to the present invention, the screw cap rotation suitable for the "integrated type" product form in which the screw cap is fitted to the cylinder body of the screw cap at a stage close to the bottling process, integrated into the bottle product, and then distributed. Auxiliary tools can be provided, without giving the user psychological strength anxiety, and most of the input to the operation unit during rotation by the user is transmitted as the torque of the screw cap. It is possible to provide a screw cap rotation assisting tool having a good usability, which enables the screw cap to rotate with a smaller input.

It is a figure explaining the screw cap rotation assisting tool (hereinafter, also referred to as "the present assisting tool") which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention, and is the perspective view which shows the unused state. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a state in which the auxiliary tool of FIG. 1 is fitted to a screw cap and has not been opened. It is a partially perspective rear view for explaining the height relationship between the belt and the screw cap of this auxiliary tool in the "fitted state". FIG. 3 (A) shows a basic example (barrel-shaped expansion example) of this auxiliary tool applied to a screw cap which is basically a parallel cylinder body and only the opening edge slightly widens, and FIG. 3 (B) shows. A modified example of this auxiliary tool that has a chevron-shaped (trapezoidal when viewed from the front) barrel with an outer diameter at the bottom larger than the top, and has a fixing claw suitable for a screw cap with a tamper evidence band attached to the opening edge. , Each is shown. A rear surface showing a modified example of this auxiliary tool provided with a belt that can be fitted into a groove formed so as to orbit the outer peripheral surface of the middle abdomen of the cylinder body at the same height in a screw cap having the same basic shape as that of FIG. It is a figure. FIG. 4 (A) shows an example of barrel expansion, and FIG. 4 (B) shows an example of chevron. FIG. 3 is a rear view showing a modified example of the present auxiliary tool in which a lightening hole is formed in a belt that can be covered and fitted over the entire height of the cylinder body to a screw cap having the same basic shape as that of FIG. FIG. 5 (A) shows an example of barrel expansion, and FIG. 5 (B) shows an example of chevron. The auxiliary tool of FIG. 1 is shown in an unused state, FIG. 6 (A) is an overall plan view, and FIG. 6 (B) is an enlarged plan view of a main part in which the vicinity of the fitting portion is enlarged. It is a top view which shows in the process of fitting this auxiliary tool of FIG. 1 into a screw cap and opening a cap. It is a front view which shows the state which this auxiliary tool of FIG. 1 is fitted to a screw cap and is not opened. It is a left side view which shows this auxiliary tool of FIG. It is a front view which showed the unused state of the screw cap rotation assisting tool (also abbreviated as "this assisting tool") which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining this auxiliary tool of FIG. 10, and is the perspective view which shows the unused state. 11 is a plan view showing the auxiliary tool in an unused state, FIG. 12A shows a basic shape, and FIG. 12B shows a modified example. It is a top view which shows in the process of fitting this auxiliary tool of FIG. 11 into a screw cap and opening a cap. It is a figure explaining the screw cap rotation assisting tool (also abbreviated as "this assisting tool") which concerns on 3rd Embodiment of this invention, and FIG. B) It is a top view which shows in the process of fitting and opening a screw cap. It is a figure explaining the screw cap rotation assisting tool (also abbreviated as "this assisting tool") which concerns on 4th Embodiment of this invention, and FIG. B) It is a top view which shows in the process of fitting and opening a screw cap. It is a figure explaining the screw cap rotation assisting tool (also abbreviated as "this assisting tool") which concerns on 5th Embodiment of this invention, and FIG. B) It is a top view which shows in the process of fitting and opening a screw cap. It is a figure explaining the screw cap rotation assisting tool (also abbreviated as "this assisting tool") which concerns on 6th Embodiment of this invention, and is the top view which shows in the process of fitting and opening a screw cap. be. It is a perspective view which shows the unused state of this auxiliary tool of FIG. It is a figure explaining the screw cap rotation assisting tool (also abbreviated as "this assisting tool") which concerns on 7th Embodiment of this invention, and the skirt is attached to the lower edge part of this auxiliary tool which has the same basic shape as FIG. It is a rear view which shows the extended modification example. FIG. 19 (A) shows a barrel-shaped expansion example, and FIG. 19 (B) shows a chevron-shaped example. It is a figure explaining the screw cap rotation assisting tool (also abbreviated as "this assisting tool") which concerns on 8th Embodiment of this invention, and is the perspective view which shows the unused state. It is a figure explaining the screw cap rotation assisting tool (also abbreviated as "this assisting tool") which concerns on 9th Embodiment of this invention, and FIG. , FIG. 21 (B) is the front view thereof. It is a figure explaining the rotation assist type cap (hereinafter, also referred to as "the present cap") which concerns on 10th Embodiment (the integrated type of 2nd Embodiment shown in FIG. 11) of this invention, and is the perspective which shows the unused state. It is a figure. The main cap (integrated type with respect to FIG. 12) of FIG. 22 is shown in an unused state, FIG. 23 (A) shows an overall plan view, and FIG. 23 (B) shows a modified example. It is a top view which shows while this cap (integrated type with respect to FIG. 13) of FIG. 22 is being opened. It is a figure explaining the rotation assist type cap (also abbreviated as "this cap") which concerns on 11th Embodiment (the integrated type of 3rd Embodiment shown in FIG. 14) of this invention, and is FIG. 25 (A). Is an overall plan view in an unused state, and FIG. 25 (B) is a plan view showing the process of opening the cap. It is a figure explaining the rotation assist type cap (also abbreviated as "this cap") which concerns on 12th Embodiment of this invention (the integrated type of 4th Embodiment shown in FIG. Is an overall plan view in an unused state, and FIG. 26 (B) is a plan view showing the process of opening the cap. It is a figure explaining the rotation assist type cap (also abbreviated as "this cap") which concerns on 13th Embodiment of this invention (the integrated type of 5th Embodiment shown in FIG. Is an overall plan view in an unused state, and FIG. 27 (B) is a plan view showing the process of opening the cap. Screw cap rotation assisting tool according to the 14th embodiment of the present invention (a modification to the 8th embodiment shown in FIG. 20 or the 9th embodiment shown in FIG. 21) (also abbreviated as "the present assisting tool"). Is a perspective view looking up from diagonally below. It is a perspective view which looked down on this auxiliary tool of FIG. 28 from diagonally above. It is a perspective view which showed the right side surface by rotating the axis of this auxiliary tool of FIG. 28. It is a perspective view which looked down on the screw cap rotation assisting tool (also abbreviated as "this assisting tool") which concerns on 15th Embodiment of this invention (a modification to 14th Embodiment shown in FIG. 29) from diagonally above. .. It is a perspective view which looked up at this auxiliary tool of FIG. 31 from diagonally below. FIG. 33 (A) is a front view for explaining how the auxiliary tool according to the 14th embodiment shown in FIGS. 28 to 30 is fitted to the screw cap in three stages, and FIG. 33 (A) is before fitting. 33 (B) is a front view showing a state during fitting, and FIG. 33 (C) is a front view showing a state after fitting. FIG. 34 (A) is a front view for explaining how the auxiliary tool according to the fifteenth embodiment shown in FIGS. 31 and 32 is fitted to the screw cap in three stages, and FIG. 34 (A) is before fitting. 34 (B) is a front view showing a state during fitting, and FIG. 34 (C) is a front view showing a state after fitting. It is a list which summarizes the features of the operation part and the ring-fitting part for each embodiment.

Hereinafter, this auxiliary tool will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, in each figure, parts having the same function and the like are designated by the same reference numerals to avoid duplication of description. Further, the "screw cap rotation assisting tool (main assisting tool)" shown in FIGS. 1 to 21 and 28 to 34 and the "rotation assisting cap (main cap)" shown in FIGS. 22 to 27 are shown. Collectively, it is defined as "rotation assist mechanism of rotating body".
[First Embodiment]

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the present auxiliary tool, and is a perspective view showing an unused state. As shown in FIG. 1, the auxiliary tool 100 facilitates transmission of torque in the opening direction F by attaching an operation portion 30 so as to cover the screw cap 10 with the fitting ring portion 50 and tightly fit the screw cap 10. It is a thing.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a state in which the auxiliary tool of FIG. 1 is fitted to a screw cap and is not opened. As shown in FIG. 2, knurls 29 are engraved in a vertical stripe shape on the inner peripheral surface of the ring-fitting portion 50. The knurl 29 fits the unevenness of the knurl 19 engraved in a vertical stripe pattern on the outer peripheral surface 18 of the screw cap 10.

As described above, the ring portion 50 and the outer peripheral surface 18 of the screw cap 10 can be tightly fitted because the knurls 19 and 29 of the fitting surfaces coincide with each other, and do not slide in the axial rotation direction in particular. Therefore, it is possible to satisfactorily transmit the rotational torque from the operating portion 30 to the screw cap 10 via the fitting ring portion 50 and the outer peripheral surface 18 of the screw cap 10.

Further, the outer peripheral surface of the ring-fitting portion 50 is a pseudo outer peripheral surface 27 (FIGS. 6, 7, 12 to 17) having the same function as the outer peripheral surface 18, and the operation portion 30 is arranged on the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27. .. The auxiliary tool 100 is planned as a product in which the operation unit 30 is fitted to the screw cap 10 at an earlier stage in a series of processes in which the bottling product is manufactured, distributed, sold, and consumed. Is preferable.

Specifically, in a mass production process such as a bottling (for example, bottling of PET bottles) factory, an operation unit 30 that is separate from the general screw cap 10 that has not been processed at all is immediately after the bottling process. It is preferable to plan a product that increases the added value by retrofitting the product. In this case, the assistive device 100 may be adopted as a standard based on social approval.

FIG. 3 is a partially perspective rear view for explaining the height relationship between the belt and the screw cap of the auxiliary tool in the “fitted state”. FIG. 3 (A) shows a basic example (barrel) of this auxiliary tool applied to a screw cap in which only the opening edge is slightly widened, for example, a 28φ fin lock cap, which is basically a parallel cylinder body. (Shape expansion example), Fig. 3 (B) shows a chevron (trapezoidal when viewed from the front) cylinder with a larger outer diameter at the bottom than the top, and is suitable for a screw cap with a tamper evidence band attached to its opening edge. Deformation examples of this auxiliary tool having various fixing claws are shown. The "fitting ring portion" of the present invention is mainly composed of a belt, and may be used with substantially the same meaning when explaining fitting and engagement with a screw cap.

The screw cap 10 with a wide opening edge shown in FIG. 3 (A) and the screw cap 9 with a non-wide opening edge (hereinafter, also referred to as “fin lock cap”) shown in FIG. Many screw caps of both shapes are widespread in Japan. A tamper evidence band 12 is also attached to the fin lock cap 9 in FIG. 3 (B), but it is omitted in FIG. 3 (A).

As shown in FIG. 3B, a mechanism for preventing detachment from the cylinder body portion 11 upward is provided on the lower edge of the belt 59 that mainly constitutes the auxiliary tool 101. That is, a fixing claw 14 that can be engaged from below is provided so as to project from the opening edge of the fin lock cap 9. On the other hand, a tamper evidence band 12 is integrally molded under the fin lock cap 9 when the cap is not opened via the initial coupling bridge 13. Since the fin lock cap 9 has a gap corresponding to the length of the initial coupling bridge 13, the auxiliary tool 101 (the same applies to the auxiliary tool 111 of FIG. 5B) has a fixing claw 14 in the gap. It is made engageable.

As a result, the auxiliary tool 101 is enhanced in the effect of preventing the screw cap 9 having a chevron slope, which is easily dislodged, from falling out of the "fitted state". In other words, after the screw cap has a chevron shape before closing or may be deformed into a barrel shape after closing, it is fitted into the cylinder body of the screw cap at a stage close to the bottling process and integrated into the bottle product. It is possible to provide a screw cap rotation assisting tool suitable for an "integrated type" product form to be distributed. The fixing claw 14 is not limited to a screw cap that has a chevron shape before closing or may be deformed into a barrel shape after closing. That is, even for a cylinder body portion having a uniform diameter from the upper side to the lower side, the effect of preventing detachment from the cylinder body portion upward can be exhibited.

As shown in FIG. 3, the ring-fitting portion 50 with the auxiliary tool 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2 viewed from the rear is mostly composed of a belt 59 having a narrow width V. The width V of the belt 59 is narrower than 1/2 of the height H of the cylinder body portion 11 of the screw cap 10, and the entire lower circumference thereof can be held parallel to the opening edge. That is, the average height of the ring fitting portion 50 is set to half or less of the height H of the cylinder body portion 11, and the lower end side of the ring fitting portion 50 is configured to be coordinateable in the vicinity of the opening edge of the screw cap 10. There is.

The fin lock cap 10 shown in FIG. 3A has a height H = 20.1 mm as an example. The belt 59 fitted in the vicinity of the opening edge is narrower than 1/2 of the height H, and has a width V = 5 mm as an example. Similarly, the screw cap 9 shown in FIG. 3B has a height H = 13 mm as an example. The belt 59 to be fitted so as to be aligned with the lower end can be fitted so that substantially the entire circumference of the lower side coincides with the opening edge of the screw cap 9. Its width V = 5 mm, which is narrower than 1/2 of the height H. As described above, the uniform region shown in the width V in FIG. 3 will be described later in FIG.

When the screw caps 9 and 10 shown in FIG. 3 are screwed to the male screw of the spout portion of the bottle, they are pushed by the male screw to expand the diameter. The degree of diameter expansion is such that the vicinity of 1/2 of the height H, that is, the middle abdomen of the cylinder body 11 expands significantly from the upper and lower ends and deforms into a barrel shape (difference X in FIG. 3). However, the belts 59 of the auxiliary tools 100 and 101 are provided with an upward detachment prevention mechanism from the cylinder body 11. That is, it is fitted into the constricted portion formed below the middle abdomen of the tubular body portion 11. With such a detachment prevention mechanism, it is possible to prevent the detachment from coming off from the "fitted state".

In the auxiliary tools 100 and 101, the operation portion 30 is integrally molded and arranged on the fitting ring portion 50 mainly composed of the belt 59 which is narrower than 1/2 of the height H. The auxiliary tools 100 and 101 have a chevron shape before closing, or are 1/2 of the height H of the cylinder body 11 of the screw caps 9 and 10 which may be deformed into a barrel shape after closing. That is, the fitting ring portion 50 is fitted at a constricted position below the middle abdomen of the barrel body portion 11, and the operating portion 30 is fixed.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the auxiliary tool 100 is set so that the wall thickness of the ring-fitting portion 50 gradually increases from the upper part to the lower part as a detachment prevention mechanism. Further, the inner diameter of the ring-fitting portion 50 is set so as to gradually narrow from the upper part to the lower part. As a result, it is possible to exert a function as a detachment prevention mechanism for preventing the detachment in the upward direction in a state where the middle portion of the cylinder body 11 is fitted to the screw cap 9 whose diameter is expanded in a barrel shape.

As a result, the fitting ring portion 50 may slip and fall off even if the force of the finger M trying to open the cap is excessive on the cylinder body portion 11 of the screw cap and acts upward in addition to the cap opening torque. No. As described above, the auxiliary tools 100 and 101 are suitable for a product form in which the bottle-shaped belt is securely fitted and then distributed at a stage close to immediately after the bottling process, and the bottle product consumer will open the cap. It is possible to provide an easy-to-use screw cap rotation assisting tool without easily falling off by the force of the fingers.

FIG. 4 shows a modification of the auxiliary tool having a screw cap having the same basic shape as that of FIG. It is a rear view which shows an example. FIG. 4 (A) shows an example of barrel expansion, and FIG. 4 (B) shows an example of chevron. As shown in FIG. 4A, the auxiliary tool 102 is provided with a mechanism for preventing detachment from the cylinder body portion upward. That is, the belt 60 on which the ridge 4 is projected is fitted into the groove 2 of the screw cap 15. With such a detachment prevention mechanism, the effect of preventing the user from unintentional dropout can be enhanced.

The auxiliary tool 102 shown in FIG. 4 can be fitted into screw caps 15 and 16 having one or more grooves 1, 2 and 3 formed so as to orbit the outer peripheral surface of the cylinder body 11 at the same height. Is. FIG. 4A shows a state in which the auxiliary tool 102 is fitted to a screw cap 15 in which one groove 2 is engraved in the middle of the cylinder body 11. Further, as shown in FIG. 4B, the auxiliary tool 102 is provided with a mechanism for preventing detachment from the cylinder body portion upward. That is, the auxiliary tool 102 is fitted to the screw cap 16 in which a total of three grooves 1 to 3 are engraved one by one parallel to the top and bottom of the groove 2 and at equal intervals. With such a detachment prevention mechanism, the effect of preventing the user from unintentional dropout can be enhanced.

One ridge 4 corresponding to the grooves 1, 2 and 3 is projected on the inner peripheral surface of the belt 60, that is, the fitting surface, which constitutes the main part of the auxiliary tool 102. The grooves 1, 2, 3 and the ridges 4 illustrated in FIG. 4 all have a square cross section, but a semicircular or triangular cross section (not shown) may be used. Further, the auxiliary tool 102 is integrally molded with polyethylene or the like, and the belt 60 can be elastically deformed to the extent that the ridges 4 are fitted into the grooves 1, 2, and 3.

In addition, in FIG. 4B, a total of three auxiliary tools 102 fitted in each of the three grooves 1 to 3 are shown, but three different forms are drawn together in one drawing. It's just that. That is, in reality, only one of the auxiliary tools 102 is fitted in only one of the three grooves 1 to 3 in the upper, middle, and lower parts for practical use.

Further, the relationship between the grooves 1, 2 and 3 shown in FIG. 4 and the ridge 4 may be reversed. That is, the place where the ridge 4 is projected on the belt 60 of the auxiliary tool 102 shown in FIG. 4 and the screw caps 15 and 16 are engraved with a total of one or three grooves 1 to 3 is reversed. You may let me. When the belt is reversed in this way, the grooves 1 to 3 are engraved in the belt 60, and the ridges 4 are projected in the screw caps 15 and 16. It should be noted that the effects in the case of reversal are almost the same, and thus the illustration is omitted.

As described with reference to FIG. 4, in the auxiliary tool 102, as a disengagement prevention mechanism, an engaging portion that engages with the screw caps 15 and 16 to prevent disengagement in the height direction is a ring portion 60. A convex shape, for example, a ridge 4 is provided on the inside of the inside in the radial direction continuously, intermittently, or partially in the circumferential direction to form a detachment prevention mechanism. The convex shape as the disengagement prevention mechanism, for example, the ridge 4 is provided with respect to the engaging receiving portion on the circumference provided continuously or intermittently at the intermediate portion and / or the lower end portion of the body cylinder portion of the screw caps 15 and 16. It is configured to be engageable.

Regarding the fixed claw 14 shown in FIG. 3B, the fixed claw 14 is convex inward in the radial direction inside the fitting ring portion 59, for example, the fixed claw 14 is continuous, intermittent or partial in the circumferential direction. It is provided in the above and constitutes a detachment prevention mechanism. The convex shape, for example, the fixing claw 14 as the disengagement prevention mechanism is provided continuously or intermittently at the intermediate portion and / or the lower end portion of the body cylinder portion 11 of the screw cap 9 with respect to the engaging receiving portion on the circumference. It is configured to be engageable. In particular, the fixing claw 14 has an engaging portion formed in the lower portion of the fitting ring portion 59.

FIG. 5 is a rear view showing a modified example of this auxiliary tool in which a screw cap having the same basic shape as that of FIG. 3 is covered over the entire height of the cylinder body and a lightening hole is formed in the fitting belt. be. The auxiliary tool 110 shown in FIG. 5A is fitted to a barrel-shaped screw cap 15. If it is tightly fitted to the outer circumference of the barrel shape in this way, it is sufficiently prevented from being detached upward from the barrel body portion. The auxiliary tool 111 shown in FIG. 5 (B) is fitted to a chevron screw cap 16. The difference between the Auxiliary Tool 110 and the Auxiliary Tool 111 is that the effect of preventing disengagement is enhanced by the fixing claws 14 arranged on the lower edge of the Auxiliary Tool 111. The fixed claw 14 is as described above with reference to FIG. 3 (B).

As shown in FIG. 5B, a fixing claw 14 that can be engaged from below is projected from the lower edge of the belt 61 that mainly constitutes the auxiliary tool 111 to the opening edge of the screw cap 16. On the other hand, a tamper evidence band 12 is integrally molded under the screw cap 16 when the cap is not opened via the initial coupling bridge 13. Since the screw cap 16 has a gap corresponding to the length of the initial coupling bridge 13, the auxiliary tool 101 (the same applies to the auxiliary tool 101 of FIG. 3B) engages the fixing claw 14 in the gap. It is possible.

As a result, the auxiliary tool 111 is enhanced in the effect of preventing the screw cap 16 having a chevron slope that is easily dislodged from falling off unintentionally by the user. The fixing claw 14 is not limited to a screw cap that has a chevron shape before closing or may be deformed into a barrel shape after closing. That is, even for a cylinder body portion having a uniform diameter from the upper side to the lower side, the effect of preventing detachment from the cylinder body portion upward can be exhibited.

The common points of the auxiliary tools 110 and 111 are as follows. The auxiliary tools 110 and 111 have a belt 61 having an area that covers the outer peripheral surfaces 18 of the screw caps 15 and 16 over 50% or more. Moreover, the belt 61 is provided with a lightening hole 62 that exposes 20% or more of the outer peripheral surface 18. The belt 61 having a lightening hole 62 having such a large area and a large area ratio has a good grip on the outer peripheral surfaces 18 of the screw caps 15 and 16. Therefore, there is an advantage that not only the opening torque is satisfactorily transmitted from the auxiliary tools 110 and 111 to the screw caps 15 and 16, but also the caps are hard to come off. Further, there is an effect of saving material by the amount of the lightening hole 62 having a large area ratio. In addition, the design is also excellent. As described above, the fitting ring portion mainly composed of the belt 61 is provided with a lightening hole 62 penetrating the front and back surfaces, but the lightening hole 62 may be non-penetrating.

6A and 6B show the auxiliary tool of FIG. 1 in an unused state, FIG. 6A is an overall plan view, and FIG. 6B is an enlarged plan view of a main part showing the vicinity of the fitting portion in an enlarged manner. be. As shown in FIG. 6A, the operation unit 30 can be directly or indirectly connected to the outer peripheral surface 18 of the screw cap 10 via the base end hinge 21. The operation unit 30 extends in a bow shape or a curved plate shape from the base end 31 to the tip end 32. The base end hinge 21 corresponds to the "first hinge portion" in the present invention.

The base end hinge 21 is formed so that the base end 31 of the operating portion 30 or the vicinity of the base end 31 is rotatably connected to a part of the outer peripheral surface 18. Further, in the operation unit 30, the length L from the base ends 31, 41 to the tips 32, 42 is 1/4 or more (of course, limited to this) with respect to the length πD of the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface 18. Not.). In addition, π is the circumference ratio, and D is the diameter of the screw cap 10. More specifically, the diameter D of the screw cap 10 can be defined relatively easily and accurately by adopting the maximum value obtained by measuring the diameter D of the cylinder body 11 on which the knurl 19 is formed out of the outer peripheral surface 18 with a caliper or the like. can.

As shown in FIG. 6, the length L of the lever 33 from the base end 31 to the tip end 32 of the operation unit 30 corresponds to the central angle α + β. The central angle α≈90 °, β≈10 °, and the central angle α + β≈100 °. From this setting, it is shown that the length L of the lever 33 is 1/4 or more with respect to the length πD of the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface 18.

Although the diameter D is the maximum value in the vicinity of 40% from the top with respect to the height H of the screw cap 10 shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the screw cap 10 is attached to the spout portion of the PET bottle body. It is the result of swelling for the first time by screwing. Therefore, the diameter D of the unclosed screw cap 10 is actually smaller than that of FIGS. 8 and 9 because there is no bulge.

The operation unit 30 of the auxiliary tool 100 is composed of a lever 33 made of a single rigid body from the base end 31 to the tip end 32. Further, the tip 32 of the operating portion 30 is formed with a warped portion 34 in the direction opposite to the arc at a length of 1/20 or more (of course, not limited to this) of the lever 33.

As shown in FIG. 6, the length J of the warped portion 34 of the operating portion 30 corresponds to a central angle β≈10 ° (of course, the present invention is not limited to this). Further, the length L of the lever 33 is a central angle α + β≈100 ° (of course, the length L is not limited to this). From this setting, the tip 32 of the operation unit 30 is formed with a warp portion 34 in the direction opposite to the arc, which is 11 times (1/20 or more) as long as the lever 33.

FIG. 7 is a plan view showing the process of fitting the auxiliary tool of FIG. 1 to the screw cap and opening the cap. The operation unit 30 maintains the first coordination form shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 and the second coordination form shown in FIG. 7, respectively, or changes from the first coordination form to the second coordination form. It is possible to make a transition as appropriate. Further, in FIGS. 1, 6 and 7, the wall thickness of the belt 59 is different between thin N and thick S depending on the location. That is, the uniform region of the belt 59 is formed with a thin wall thickness N, and the non-uniform region is made sturdy with a thick wall thickness S, and the hinge forming portion 51 for the base end is formed. It should be noted that the perspective view does not necessarily clearly indicate the magnitude relationship. A base end hinge 21 is erected on the base end hinge forming portion 51, and a lever 33 integrally molded with them is continuously provided. Further, the fact that the width W of the base end hinge forming portion 51 is formed as a widening region wider in the axial direction than the width V of the uniform region will be described later with reference to FIG.

When applying rotational torque (opening direction F) to the operation unit 30 of the auxiliary tool 100, the user can use not only the fingertip M but also the oral cavity, teeth, jaw, and corners of an object. can. As described above, for a person who is not good at operating the screw cap 10 on the container, the operation becomes extremely easy. Not only that, it is a product that is likely to be used as a fashion for young people.

The first coordination form is a shape in which a concentric arc (hereinafter, also simply referred to as “arc”) 24 (FIG. 6) with respect to the outer peripheral surface 18 is formed and folded when the screw cap 10 is unopened. The second coordination form is a shape in which the tip 32 or a position close to the tip 32 is expanded in the diameter expansion direction E when the screw cap 10 is opened.

Further, in the first coordination form, when a torque in the opening direction F is applied to the tip 32 or a position close to the tip 32 by the finger M of the person who operates the opening, the finger M slides in the opening direction F. It transforms into a difficult second coordination form. If the lever 33 in the second coordination form is pushed in the diameter reduction direction K and folded, it can be flexibly returned to the first coordination form.

As shown in FIG. 6, a recess 38 is provided on the surface of the auxiliary tool 100 facing the outer peripheral surface 18 in the vicinity of the tip 32 of the lever 33. A convex portion 28 is provided directly on the outer peripheral surface 18 at a position facing the outer peripheral surface 18, or if there is a pseudo outer peripheral surface 27 having a function equivalent thereto. The convex portion 28 and the concave portion 38 form a fitting portion 8 that can be fitted and removed. The fitting portion 8 can be fitted to maintain the first coordination form, and can be detached when the first coordination form is transformed into the second coordination form. In this way, the operation unit 30 is detachably and stably held with respect to the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27 at the appropriate portion inside the operation portion 30 and the opposite portion of the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27 with which the appropriate portion faces. The fitting portion 8 is provided.

The consumer with respect to the contents of the bottle transforms the operation unit 30 from the first coordination form to the second coordination form with an enlarged diameter when the bottle is opened for the first time. Depending on the usage pattern of the consumer, it may be convenient to reduce the diameter from the expanded second coordination form and return to the first coordination form. In that case, the fitting portion 8 is beneficially successful. When the cap is opened for the second time or later, the fitting portion 8 is removed, and when the cap is closed, the fitting portion 8 is fitted. Since the fitting portion 8 is flexibly molded, the usage pattern is free for consumers.

As shown in FIG. 6B, since the dimensional difference is set at the position where the convex portion 28 and the concave portion 38 constituting the fitting portion 8 are intentionally engaged with each other, some pressure is applied from the outer peripheral side of the lever 33. By adding, the dimensional difference is absorbed by the amount of deformation of the base end hinge 21 and the lever 33, and the two are engaged with each other. Since the dimensional difference is set between the convex portion 28 and the concave portion 38, even if the initial coupling bridge 81 is provided at the tip of the convex portion 28, it does not hinder the engagement of the fitting portion 8 and also acts beneficially. do.

The initial coupling bridge 81 is configured to stably connect and hold the operation unit 30 when not in use. Further, when the auxiliary tool 100 is used for the first time, the initial coupling bridge 81 is extremely finely configured so as to be easily torn. Further, if the ruptured piece of the initial coupling bridge 81 that has been ruptured remains at the tip of the convex portion 28, it can also be utilized as a mechanism for engaging with the concave portion 38 as a part of the convex portion 28.

FIG. 8 is a front view showing a state in which the auxiliary tool of FIG. 1 is fitted to a screw cap and is not opened. FIG. 9 is a left side view showing the auxiliary tool of FIG. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the ring-fitting portion 50 is mainly composed of a belt 59.

The width V of the belt 59 is narrower than the height H of the cylinder body 11 of the screw cap 10. A hinge forming portion 51 for the base end is specially provided in the middle of the belt 59. The width W of the base end hinge forming portion 51 is narrower than the height H of the cylinder body portion 11, but a widened portion wider than the width V of the belt 59 is formed. That is, the base end hinge forming portion 51 has a widening portion in which the length in the axial direction is set longer than the average height of the fitting ring portion 50. The base end hinge 21 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 is erected on the base end hinge forming portion 51. The wall thickness S of the base end hinge forming portion 51 is thicker and stronger than the wall thickness N of the uniform region of the belt 59, which is the same as that of the present auxiliary tools 100 and 101 of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIGS. 1 to 9, the auxiliary tool 100 according to the first embodiment has an operation unit 30 that is separate from the general screw cap 10, such as a cap maker, a PET bottle maker, a bottling factory, and a distributor. , It is preferable to use it for retrofitting at retail stores.

Further, the auxiliary tool 100 has an operation unit 30 arranged on a pseudo outer peripheral surface 27. In addition, the screw cap 10, the fitting ring portion 50 to be tightly fitted to the screw cap 10, and the knurls 19 and 29 coincide with each other on the fitting surfaces of both. Moreover, in the unopened state, it is maintained in the first coordination form. In the first coordination form, the lever 33 forming the operation portion 30 is folded in the diameter reduction direction K, and in the second coordination form, it expands in the diameter expansion direction E.

At the time of opening the cap for the first time, the operation unit 30 is deformed from the first coordination form to the second coordination form with an enlarged diameter, and the opening is facilitated by the action of a large force moment according to the principle of leverage. Therefore, the auxiliary tool 100 can satisfactorily transmit the rotational torque from the finger M, the operating portion 30, and the ring fitting portion 50 to the screw cap 10.

According to the present invention, the screw cap rotation suitable for the "integrated type" product form in which the screw cap is fitted to the cylinder body of the screw cap at a stage close to the bottling process, integrated into the bottle product, and then distributed. Auxiliary equipment can be provided. In other words, even if the force of the finger of the person who opens the screw cap is weak, the moment is increased by this auxiliary tool with a wider radius of gyration, so the torque required to open the screw cap can be reliably and easily applied. Is possible. In particular, it is preferably used for a screw cap that has a chevron shape before closing or that deforms into a barrel shape after closing.

Further, the auxiliary tool 100 has an operation unit 30 arranged on a pseudo outer peripheral surface 27 (FIG. 6). In addition, the screw cap 10, the fitting ring portion 50 to be tightly fitted to the screw cap 10, and the knurls 19 and 29 coincide with each other on the fitting surfaces of both. Moreover, in the unopened state, it is maintained in the first coordination form. In the first coordination mode, the lever 33 forming the operating portion 30 has a base end hinge 21 erected on a pseudo outer peripheral surface 27 separate from the screw cap 10.

Here, a gist of the present invention will be described. The auxiliary tools 100, 101 and the like according to the first embodiment shown in any of FIGS. 1 to 9 transmit torque in the opening direction F to the screw caps 9, 10 and the like. The auxiliary tools 100, 101 and the like are configured to include a ring fitting portion 50, an operating portion 30, and a hinge portion (base end hinge 21).

The ring-fitting portion 50 can be fitted to the outer peripheral surfaces 18 of the screw caps 9, 10 and the like, and slip prevention portions, for example, knurls 19 and 29, which prevent idling in the circumferential direction with respect to the outer peripheral surface 18, are formed. .. The slip prevention portions (knurls 19 and 29) are provided on the inner and outer peripheral surfaces of both fitting portions and can be engaged with each other.

The operating portion 30 formed by the lever 33 or the like can function as a pseudo outer peripheral surface having substantially the same function as the outer peripheral surface 18 of the screw caps 9, 10 and the like on the outer periphery of the ring portion 50. That is, the operation unit 30 (lever 33 or the like) extends from the base end 31 to the tip end 32 along the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27. In this way, the operating portion 30 (lever 33, etc.) is arranged on the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27 forming the outer circumference of the fitting ring portion 50.

The hinge portion (base end hinge 21) connects the operation portion 30 and the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27 to the base end 31 or the vicinity of the base end 31 of the operation portion 30 (lever 33 or the like), and the operation portion (lever 33). Etc.) are rotatably supported.

Further, the fitting ring portion 50 is formed with a detachment prevention mechanism (for example, a fixing claw 14 or the like) for preventing the screw caps 9 and 10 from detaching from the cylinder body portion 11. Further, the operation unit 30 (lever 33 or the like) is configured to be able to maintain or transition to the first coordination form and the second coordination form, respectively.

This first coordination form is a form in which the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27 is brought close to the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27. Further, in the second coordination mode, the operation portion 30 (lever 33 or the like) is rotated around the hinge portion (base end hinge 21) as a fulcrum, and the tip 32 is separated from the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27 in the diameter expansion direction. It is an expanded form.

The auxiliary tool 100 can also obtain the following effects by the configuration as described above.
<1> In the first coordination form in which the operation portion 30 is folded along the ring portion 50, the urging force is applied in a direction in which the convex portion 28 and the concave portion 38 constituting the fitting portion 8 are difficult to separate from each other. Occurs. As a result, the force for holding the engaged portion 8 in the engaged state is improved, and during mounting, storage, transportation, display, storage in a bag, pocket, etc., storage in a vending machine, etc., or operation. Unintended withdrawal can be suppressed.

<2> After use, if the operating portion 30 is brought closer to the fitting ring portion 50 again and some pressure is applied, the fitting portion 8 can be engaged with a comfortable impact sound of "click". At this time, the user needs to push in with some force, and when the two are engaged, an appropriate click feeling can be obtained. For this reason, the engagement state of the two can be confirmed by the resistance to the finger M and the sound, and the user can use it with peace of mind.

<3> The same applies to the case where the fitting portion 8 is detached, and the light impact transmitted to the finger M gives a pleasant sensation, so that a higher commercial value can be provided.

<4> The initial coupling bridge 81 can prevent unintentional detachment during mounting, storage, transportation, display, storage in a bag, pocket, or the like, storage in a vending machine, or operation. Further, the initial coupling bridge 81 can determine whether it is unused or used.

<5> In particular, a dimensional difference or a positional difference is set between the convex portion 28 and the concave portion 38 constituting the fitting portion 8 in relation to engagement. Therefore, the setting position of the initial coupling bridge 81 can be set at the tip of the convex portion 28. As a result, when not in use, the operating portion 30 is stably held along the fitting ring portion 50 in a substantially circular shape. Also, at the time of use, the initial coupling bridge 81 can be easily torn. The initial coupling bridge 81 means an "easy cutting portion" in the present invention. Here, if the structure is such that the torn piece of the initial coupling bridge 81 that has been torn remains at the tip of the convex portion 28, it can be utilized as a mechanism for engaging with the concave portion 38 as a part of the convex portion 28.

<6> If the initial coupling bridge 81 is provided, it is possible to reduce one processing step of engaging the convex portion 28 constituting the fitting portion 8 with the concave portion 38 in advance, which is desired to be eliminated before shipment.

<7> Further, at the time of use, an external force equal to or higher than the set value is applied to the operation unit 30 to rupture the initial coupling bridge 81. By this sensation of tearing, it can be confirmed that the auxiliary tool 100 is unused. In particular, when the ring-fitting portion 50 is an integral type forming the body cylinder portion of the screw cap of the container, it can be confirmed that the screw cap is unopened by the feeling of this rupture. Tamper evidence can also be expected from the initial coupling bridge 81.
[Second Embodiment]

Hereinafter, the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 13. FIG. 10 is a front view showing an unused state of the screw cap rotation assisting tool (the present assisting tool) according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the auxiliary tool of FIG. 10, and is a perspective view showing an unused state. 12A and 12B are plan views showing the auxiliary tool of FIG. 11 in an unused state, FIG. 12A shows a basic shape, and FIG. 12B shows a modified example. FIG. 13 is a plan view showing the process of fitting the auxiliary tool of FIG. 11 to the screw cap and opening the cap.

As shown in FIGS. 10 to 13, the auxiliary tool 200 according to the second embodiment also has a ring-fitting portion 50, which is different from the general screw cap 10, and is distributed by a cap maker, a PET bottle maker, a bottling factory, and a distribution facility. It is a usage method that is retrofitted at a trader, retail store, etc.

Further, the auxiliary tool 100 and the auxiliary tool 200 are similarly similar in that the operation portion 40 is arranged on the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27. The same applies to the fact that the screw cap 10, the fitting ring portion 50 that is tightly fitted to the screw cap 10, and the knurls 19 and 29 coincide with each other on the fitting surfaces of both. Moreover, in the unopened state, it is maintained in the first coordination form.

Further, the first coordination form is a shape in which the screw cap 10 is folded by forming a concentric arc 25 with respect to the outer peripheral surface 18 when the screw cap 10 is unopened. In the second coordination form, when the screw cap 10 is opened, the positions 43 and 44 near the tip 42 are expanded in the diameter expansion direction E (FIG. 13). Further, the initial coupling bridge 82 is arranged at a position 43 near the tip 42, and the operating portion 40 is stably held to the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27 when not in use. The function of the initial coupling bridge 82 is as described in the first embodiment.

In the first coordination mode shown in FIG. 12 (A), the operation unit 40 is folded in the diameter reduction direction K (FIG. 13), and in the second coordination mode shown in FIG. 13, it is in the diameter expansion direction E. Expand to. Similarly, when the cap is opened for the first time, it is deformed from the first coordination form to the second coordination form, and the opening is facilitated by the action of a large moment due to the diameter expansion effect. Therefore, the auxiliary tool 200 can satisfactorily transmit the rotational torque from the finger M, the operation portion 40, and the ring fitting portion 50 to the screw cap 10 in the same manner as the auxiliary tool 100.

The length from the base end 41 to the tip end 42 of the operation unit 40 is also 1/4 or more (of course, not limited to this) with respect to the length πD of the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface 18. Here, the lengths of the arcs are compared at their respective central angles. As shown in FIG. 12, the length from the base end 41 to the tip end 42 of the operation unit 40 also corresponds to the _{central angle θ 1} + 2 · θ _{2 because the folded parts are added together.} The central angle is θ ₁ ≈ 90 °, θ ₂ ≈ 30 °, and the central angle θ ₁ + 2 · θ ₂ ≈ 150 °. From this setting, it is shown that the length from the base end 41 to the tip end 42 is 1/4 or more (of course, not limited to this) with respect to the length πD of the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface 18. ..

Note that FIG. 12 shows a state in which the ring-fitting portion 50 of the operating portion 40 is not fitted to the screw cap 10, so that the outer peripheral surface 18 of the screw cap 10 is not clearly shown. However, this point can be easily estimated because the state of being fitted to the screw cap 10 is clearly shown by FIG.

Further, as is clear from FIG. 12, the length from the base end 41 to the second section 44 is the foot of the tip 42 to the first section 43 and the length from the first section 43 to the second section 44. It is longer than the length you did. Again, the arc lengths are compared at their respective central angles. The length from the base end 41 to the second section 44 corresponds to the _{central angle θ 1.} Similarly, the lengths from the tip 42 to the first section 43 and from the first section 43 to the second section 44 both correspond to the _{central angle θ 2.} The central angle θ ₁ ≈ 90 ° and the central angle θ ₂ ≈ 30 °. Here, the center angle θ ₁ ≒ 90 °> central angle θ ₂ · ₂ ≒ 60 °, a. From this setting, the length from the base end 41 to the second section 44 is longer than the total length of the tip 42 to the first section 43 and the length from the first section 43 to the second section 44.

Hereinafter, only the characteristic configuration of the auxiliary tool 200 according to the second embodiment will be described. The auxiliary tool 200 is further provided with a tip hinge 22 for rotatably connecting the tip 42 to a part of the outer peripheral surface 18 away from the base hinge 21. The tip hinge 22 means the "second hinge portion" in the present invention. Further, the first section 43 and the second section 44, which can be bent and extended, are formed in order from the side closer to the tip 42. The flexible band-shaped portion from the tip 42 to the second section 44 means the "connecting band" in the present invention. Of course, the connecting band does not necessarily have to be flexible as a whole, as long as it is configured so that it can be flexed and extended, and it goes without saying that it may include a rigid portion.

The connecting band is substantially C-shaped, substantially J-shaped, or substantially L, which is an extension of the operating portion in the circumferential direction or warped so as to overlap the operating portion when the operating portion is in the first coordination form. Glyph, approximately M-shaped, approximately N-shaped, approximately S-shaped, approximately U-shaped, approximately V-shaped, approximately W-shaped, approximately Z-shaped, approximately m-shaped, approximately n-shaped, approximately r-shaped, approximately inverted V-shaped, approximately π-shaped , Abbreviated Σ-shaped, abbreviated Y-shaped, abbreviated Ω-shaped, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, etc. It is configured to be in a bent shape (non-extended state posture) composed of a bent shape or a combination thereof.

Further, the base end 41 to the second section 44 are formed thick in the radial direction of the screw cap 10 to ensure rigidity, and the tip 42 to the second section 44 are formed thin to ensure flexibility. Has been done. These flexions and extensions are distinguished by a first coordination form and a second coordination form. That is, in the first coordination form, the first section 43 is bent in a substantially U shape, and the second section 44 is linearly extending. Further, in the second coordination form, the first section 43 extends linearly and the second section 44 bends.

Further, in the first coordination form, the torque in the opening direction F is applied to the tip 42 or the positions 43 and 44 (section 43, section 2 44) near the tip 42 by the finger M of the person who opens the plug. When applied, the finger M is deformed into a second coordination form having a shape that does not slip easily in the opening direction F. If the first section 43 and the second section 44 of the second coordination form are pushed in the radial direction K and folded, the first section 43 and the second section 44 can be flexibly returned to the first coordination form.

In this way, the fitting ring portion 50 and the operating portion 40 are connected to each other by the tip hinge 22 at a position other than the base end hinge 21 and are stably fixed, whereby the fitting ring portion 50 and the operating portion 40 are stably fixed. Is one with. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the operation unit 40 when not in use from being unintentionally rotated or caught inside the vending machine or bag, or during storage or transportation. In the ring fitting portion 50, the wall thickness S at the portion where the tip hinge 22 is arranged is formed to be thicker and stronger than the wall thickness N in the uniform region of the belt 59. This point is the same as that of the base end hinge forming portion 51.

Here, the main points of the invention according to the second embodiment will be described. In the auxiliary tool 200 shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, the operation portion 40 includes a rigid portion and a connecting band. The rigid portion is a lever-shaped body having a relatively high rigidity from the base end 41 of the operating portion 40 to the second section 44. Further, as described above, the connecting band according to the present invention has a first section 43 and a second section 44, which can be bent and extended, respectively, in order from the side closer to the tip 42 of the operating portion 40. It is a flexible strip.

One end of the connecting band is connected to the tip of the rigid portion (second section 44) of the operating portion 40, and the other end is an appropriate portion (tip 42) on the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27 of the fitting ring portion 50. It is configured by being connected to the tip hinge 22). Further, the connecting band is formed by rotating the operating portion 40 with the hinge portion (base end hinge 21) as a fulcrum, and connecting the rigid portion tip (second section 44) of the operating portion 40 with the connecting portion (tip hinge 22). ) And it can be expanded.

When the operation unit 40 is in the first coordination form, the connecting band of the auxiliary tool 200 has a substantially U-shaped posture in which the operation unit 40 is extended in the circumferential direction or warped so as to overlap the operation unit 40. It is configured as follows. As shown in FIG. 12, the connecting band of the auxiliary tool 200, that is, the flexible band-shaped portion from the tip 42 to the second section 44, has a wall thickness thinner than the average wall thickness of the operating portion 40. Can be set.

Further, with respect to the basic shape shown in FIG. 12 (A), in the modified example shown in FIG. 12 (B), in the first coordination form in which the first section 43 is folded, a warp in the direction opposite to the arc 25 is provided. As a result, the user's fingers are easily hooked. This point is also the same as the configuration in which the auxiliary tool 100 shown in FIG. 6 has a warped portion 34 formed in the direction opposite to the arc 24.

Then, when the auxiliary tool 200 is used for the first time, an external force equal to or higher than the set value is applied to the operation unit 40 to rupture the initial coupling bridge 82. By this sensation of tearing, it can be confirmed that the auxiliary tool 200 is unused. That is, the initial coupling bridge 82 can be provided with tamper evidence and can play its role.

The operation unit 40 of the auxiliary tool 200 may be combined with the belts 60 and 61 having different shapes as described above. The above-mentioned belt 60 has ridges 4 arranged on the inner peripheral surface, and the above-mentioned belt 61 is wide and has a lightening hole 62. Further, the fixing claws 14 may be arranged on the lower edges of the belts 59 and 61.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 14A and 14B are views for explaining the present auxiliary tool according to the third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 14A is an overall plan view in an unused state, and FIG. 14B is fitted and opened in a screw cap. It is a top view which shows in the middle of plugging. The auxiliary tool 300 shown in FIG. 14 is a lever 33 of the auxiliary tool 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 extended long from the base end 31. That is, in the auxiliary tool 300, the base end 31 is separated from the hinge 21, and the action point 37 is formed at the position separated from the hinge 21. As a result, the auxiliary tool 300 can be opened with less force than the auxiliary tool 100. More details are as follows.

In the case of the auxiliary tool 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 7, a part of the force of the fingers M applied when opening the cap is such that the base end 31 directs the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27 toward the center O of the screw cap 10. While pressing in the normal direction, it acts in the normal direction away from the center O so as to pull out the hinge 21. Therefore, not all of the force of the finger M acts on the opening torque in the opening direction F, and a loss occurs, so that a larger force is required, which is somewhat disadvantageous.

On the other hand, in the auxiliary tool 300 shown in FIG. 14, by providing the action point 37 at a position away from the hinge 21, the component force in the normal direction wasted by the auxiliary tool 100 is reduced. , The force of the finger M applied at the time of opening can be more efficiently acted as the opening torque in the opening direction F. As a result, the auxiliary tool 300 can be opened with less force than the auxiliary tool 100. The length from the hinge 21 to the point of action 37 is illustrated by setting the central angle γ ≈ 45 ° of the ring-fitting portion 50, but the length is not limited to this, and the central angle γ ≦ 90 ° may be used. ..

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 15A and 15B are views for explaining the present auxiliary tool according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 15A is an overall plan view in an unused state, and FIG. 15B is fitted and opened in a screw cap. It is a top view which shows in the middle of plugging. In the auxiliary tool 400 shown in FIG. 15, the action point 39 of the lever 35 of the auxiliary tool 300 according to the third embodiment shown in FIG. 14 is extended further, and the action point 39 is set on the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27. It is a joint. The length from the hinge 21 to the point of action 39 is illustrated by setting the central angle δ≈90 ° of the ring-fitting portion 50, but the length is not limited to this, and the central angle δ≤90 ° may be used. ..

The curvature of the auxiliary tool 400 slightly changes between the unused state shown in FIG. 15 (A) and the opening of the stopper shown in FIG. 15 (B) in the shape from the hinge 21 to the point of action 39. Therefore, even if it is a thin, thin and simple structure, it is mechanically robust against deformation stress due to use. Further, the effect of ensuring a considerable length from the hinge 21 to the point of action 39 is equal to or higher than that of the auxiliary tool 300 according to the second embodiment. That is, the auxiliary tool 400 can also be opened with less force than the auxiliary tool 100.

[Fifth Embodiment]
Next, the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 16A and 16B are views for explaining the present auxiliary tool according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 16A is an overall plan view in an unused state, and FIG. 16B is fitted and opened in a screw cap. It is a top view which shows in the middle of plugging. In the auxiliary tool 500 shown in FIG. 16, the hinge 21 of the auxiliary tool 300 according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. 14 is extended approximately twice, and is obliquely deflected toward the tip 32 of the lever 35. It is replaced with an obliquely long deflection type hinge 23 joined to the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27.

The auxiliary tool 500 according to the fifth embodiment has a length from the obliquely deflected hinge 23 to the action point 37, which is larger than the length from the hinge 21 to the action point 37 of the auxiliary tool 300 according to the second embodiment. , Can be secured for a longer time. Therefore, the action and effect of the auxiliary tool 500 according to the fifth embodiment is equal to or higher than that of the auxiliary tool 300 according to the second embodiment. That is, the auxiliary tool 500 can also be opened with less force than the auxiliary tools 100 and 300.

[Sixth Embodiment]
Next, the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 and 18. FIG. 17 is a view for explaining the present auxiliary tool according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention, and is a plan view showing the process of fitting and opening the screw cap. FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing an unused state of the auxiliary tool of FIG. In the auxiliary tool 600 shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the belt 59 of the auxiliary tool 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 is divided into about 10 parts in the circumferential direction, and the circumference is formed. It has a belt 70 in which thin-walled portions P are alternately provided for each division along the direction.

Even when the diameter of the belt 70 is forcibly increased to a large extent, the auxiliary tool 600 can be extended and adjusted by the thin portion P without difficulty. It should be noted that the division into 10 divisions is only an example here, and good results can be obtained even with 12 divisions, and for example, any of 2 to 20 divisions may be used. The effects of the thin-walled portion P with and without the thin-walled portion P will be described below in comparison with each other. When there is no thin-walled portion, the auxiliary tool 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 3A is illustrated. On the other hand, when there is a thin-walled portion, it is illustrated by the present auxiliary tool 600 according to the sixth embodiment shown in FIGS. 17 and 18.

In the auxiliary tool 100 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 3 (A), when the difference X in the barrel-shaped diameter of the screw cap 10 is extremely excessive in the barrel-shaped barrel portion 11 of the screw cap 10. When the ring portion 50 is forcibly fitted through the middle portion of the portion 11, there is a problem that the belt 59 is cut beyond the limit applicable to the diameter expansion of the belt 59 in the diameter expansion direction.

On the other hand, even in the case of the auxiliary tool 600 shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, when the difference X in which the middle part of the cylinder body 11 of the screw cap 10 is expanded in a barrel shape is extremely excessive, the belt 70 is increased. Elongation stress that expands the diameter is strongly applied. This thin-walled portion P is configured to have a wall thickness N of most of the other thicknesses and a wall-thickness P (also used as a reference numeral) that is about 20% thinner than the wall-thickness S of the base end hinge forming portion 51.

Further, in order to rotate the fitting ring portion 50 and the screw cap 10 together without idling, ribs (knurls 19) or knurls 29 extending in the axial direction are provided on the entire circumference. As a result, the inner peripheral surface of the ring-fitting portion 50 can engage with the outer peripheral surface 18 of the cylinder body portion 11 of the screw cap 10 and rotate together without idling.

At least one thin-walled portion P on which the ribs or knurls 19 and 29 are not formed is provided inside the ring-fitting portion 50. Further, the wall thickness P (also used as a reference numeral) of the thin wall portion P is set to be thinner than the wall thickness N of the groove portion (rib or knurl 29). As a result, even a slight difference in the outer diameter of the cylinder body 11 of the screw cap 10 can be dealt with while expanding and contracting. That is, the outer shape adjusting mechanism is configured so that the fitting ring portion 50 can be properly fitted to the cylinder body portion 11 of the screw cap 10.

By providing this external adjustment mechanism, it is possible to solve the problem that when the fitting ring portion 50 is fitted to the cylinder body portion 11 of the screw cap 10, the fitting ring portion 50 cannot be fitted tightly or becomes difficult to fit. That is, it is possible to comfortably fit a place where the fitting condition is cramped. That is, since an unintended stress load is not applied to the hinge portion, there is no possibility that the base end hinge 21 will be torn when the lever 33 is operated.

Therefore, the thin-walled portion P increases the ductility inherent in a material such as polyethylene in both ductility and malleability. That is, the limit of flexibly deforming and extending the belt 70 without breaking is increased. That is, a plastic bucket made of a thick material has little malleability, but a plastic bag made of a thin material can ensure a considerable malleability. The optimum thickness of the thin portion P is specified for each of the width V of the belt 70 (see FIG. 3 and others) and the material.

[7th Embodiment]
Next, the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating the auxiliary tool according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention, and is a rear view showing a modified example in which a skirt is extended to the lower edge portion of the auxiliary tool having the same basic shape as that of FIG. be. FIG. 19 (A) shows a barrel-shaped expansion example, and FIG. 19 (B) shows a chevron-shaped example. The auxiliary tool 102 of FIG. 4 used for the base is only an example, and the auxiliary tools 100 and 101 of FIGS. 1 to 3 may be used as the base. It should be noted that FIG. 19B merely illustrates how the chevron screw cap 16 is fitted to any one of the high, medium, and low places.

As shown in FIG. 19, the auxiliary tool 700 has a funnel shape at the lower edge portion of the auxiliary tool 102 shown in FIG. 4 in which the opening is obliquely widened as compared with other average inner diameters. The skirt is extended. Such a skirt has an action effect of absorbing the core deviation and facilitating and ensuring the attachment even for a fitting object having a certain degree of core deviation. Needless to say, the effect of the auxiliary tool 700 with a skirt shown in FIG. 19 is more remarkable than that of the auxiliary tool 102 without a skirt shown in FIG. As a result, the auxiliary tool 700 can easily adapt to the operation of a high-speed tapping machine or the like capable of tapping the screw caps 15 and 16 at a speed of 10 per second.

[8th Embodiment]
Next, the eighth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining the present auxiliary tool according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention, and is a perspective view showing an unused state. As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 8 and 9, the base end hinge forming portion 51 has a height W, which is higher than the width V of the belt 59. Therefore, most of the height of the ring portion 50 is not uniform in the circumferential direction of the belt 59, and the hinge forming portion 51 having a protruding height (width) W with respect to most of the height (width) V. Exists.

This means that the ring-fitting portion 50 has a phase in the circumferential direction. Therefore, in mass production equipment, some phase defining means for defining the phase is required. More specifically, it becomes particularly important when acclimatizing to the operation of a high-speed tapping machine or the like capable of tapping at a speed of 10 per second described above. That is, the auxiliary tool 100 shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 9 needs to be gripped after undergoing a phase matching step in the gripping device of the type covering from above.

On the other hand, in the auxiliary tool 800 according to the eighth embodiment of FIG. 20, widening portions 91 and 92 having a height W equivalent to that of the base end hinge forming portion 51 are provided symmetrically in the circumferential direction due to a 120 ° phase difference. It is arranged. However, even in the widening portions 91 and 92 of the height W arranged symmetrically in the circumferential direction with a phase difference of 120 °, some phase defining means for defining the phase is required in the mass production apparatus.

However, as in the auxiliary tool 100 shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 8 and 9, the width of the belt 59 is not uniform in the circumferential direction and protrudes with respect to most height (width) V. Compared with the case where only one hinge forming portion 51 having a height (width) W is present, the phase defining means can be further simplified by the auxiliary tool 800 which is circumferentially symmetric with a phase difference of 120 °. More specifically, it becomes clear when comparing the phase correction angles required for phase matching. That is, when only one hinge forming portion 51 having a protruding height (width) W exists in the circumferential direction as in the auxiliary tool 100 shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 8 and 9. Where a maximum phase correction angle of 180 ° is required, in the present auxiliary tool 800 according to the eighth embodiment, the phase correction angle is 1/3 of that, and a maximum phase correction angle of 60 ° is sufficient.

[9th Embodiment]
Next, the ninth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 21A and 21B are views for explaining the present auxiliary tool according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 21A is a perspective view showing an unused state, and FIG. 21B is a front view thereof. Is. The auxiliary tool 900 shown in FIG. 21 turns the auxiliary tool 200 according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. 11 upside down, and when the screw cap in the closed state is visually recognized from above and rotated counterclockwise, that is, in the opening direction. In addition, it is configured to facilitate torque transmission from the fingers.

The auxiliary tool 900 shown in FIG. 21 has only one hinge forming portion 51 having a protruding height (width) W with respect to most of the height (width) V, but it protrudes downward. It is possible to grip the gripping device of the type that covers from above without going through the step of phase matching. In addition, it is inevitable that the fitting form is raised from below the screw cap by the difference between the hinge forming portion 51 having a height (width) W protruding downward and most of the height (width) V. However, it can be adopted if it is judged that there is no problem.

Hereinafter, the tenth to thirteenth embodiments will be described with reference to FIGS. 22 to 27. The rotation assisting caps 210, 310, 410, 510 according to the tenth to thirteenth embodiments shown in FIGS. 22 to 27 are the present auxiliary according to the above-mentioned first to ninth embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 21. Tools 100, 101, 102, 110, 111, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 (hereinafter, also referred to as "this auxiliary tool 100 to 900") are integrally molded with a screw cap (hereinafter, also referred to as "this auxiliary tool 100 to 900"). , Also referred to as "integrated"), that is, a cap manufactured with an opening assist function.

The "integrated" rotation assisting caps 210, 310, 410, 510 are manufactured by integrally molding the opening assisting function for each individual screw cap. On the other hand, the above-mentioned auxiliary tools 100 to 900 are "integrated type" and are used in a state where a separate part of the opening assisting function body is fitted to a screw cap having no opening assisting function. The difference is that it is a thing. As described above, in both the "integrated type" and the "integrated type", a product form that is preliminarily integrated with the bottle product and distributed to the final consumer is desired. be.

[10th Embodiment]
Here, the tenth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 22 to 24. FIG. 22 is a view for explaining the present cap according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention (integrated type of the second embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 to 13), and is a perspective view showing an unused state. FIG. 23 shows the main cap (integrated type with respect to FIG. 12) of FIG. 22 in an unused state, FIG. 23 (A) shows an overall plan view, and FIG. 23 (B) shows a modified example. FIG. 24 is a plan view showing the main cap (integrated type with respect to FIG. 13) of FIG. 22 being opened.

The cap 210 according to the tenth embodiment shown in FIGS. 22 to 24 is an integral form of the auxiliary tool 200 according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. Further, the cap 210 according to the tenth embodiment has exactly the same effect as that of the auxiliary tool 200 according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. 11 fitted to the screw cap 10. Both of these have the same usability for the end consumer.

[11th Embodiment]
Next, the eleventh embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 25. FIG. 25 is a diagram for explaining the present cap according to the eleventh embodiment of the present invention (integrated type of the third embodiment shown in FIG. 14), and FIG. 25 (A) is an overall plan view in an unused state. FIG. 25B is a plan view showing the process of opening the cap. The cap 310 according to the eleventh embodiment shown in FIG. 25 is an integral modification of the auxiliary tool 300 according to the third embodiment shown in FIG. Further, the cap 310 according to the eleventh embodiment has exactly the same effect as that of the auxiliary tool 300 according to the second embodiment shown in FIG. 11 fitted to the screw cap 10. Both of these have the same usability for the end consumer.

[12th Embodiment]
Next, the twelfth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating the present cap according to the twelfth embodiment of the present invention (integrated type of the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 15), and FIG. 26 (A) is an overall plan view in an unused state. FIG. 26B is a plan view showing the process of opening the cap. The cap 410 according to the twelfth embodiment shown in FIG. 26 is an integral form of the auxiliary tool 400 according to the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. Further, the cap 410 according to the twelfth embodiment has exactly the same effect as that of the auxiliary tool 400 according to the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 15 fitted to the screw cap 10. Both of these have the same usability for the end consumer.

[13th Embodiment]
Next, the thirteenth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 27. FIG. 27 is a view for explaining the present cap according to the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention (integrated type of the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 16), and FIG. 27 (A) is an overall plan view in an unused state. FIG. 27B is a plan view showing the process of opening the cap. The cap 510 according to the thirteenth embodiment shown in FIG. 27 is an integral modification of the cap 500 according to the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. Further, the cap 510 according to the thirteenth embodiment has the same effect as that of the auxiliary tool 500 according to the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 16 fitted to the screw cap 10. Both of these have the same usability for the end consumer.

[14th Embodiment]
Next, the 14th embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 28 to 30. In addition, additional effects will be described later with reference to FIG. 33. FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the auxiliary tool according to the 14th embodiment of the present invention (a modified example of the 8th embodiment shown in FIG. 20 or the 9th embodiment shown in FIG. 21) looking up from diagonally below. .. FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the auxiliary tool of FIG. 28 as viewed from diagonally above. FIG. 30 is a perspective view showing the right side surface of the auxiliary tool of FIG. 28 by rotating the axis. The auxiliary tool 890 according to the 14th embodiment shown in FIGS. 28 to 30 is the auxiliary tool 600 according to the sixth embodiment shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, and the book according to the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. It is based on the auxiliary tool 800 or the auxiliary tool 900 according to the ninth embodiment shown in FIG. 21, and is realized by having an operation unit with a substantially U-shaped connecting band.

The following three points have been added to this auxiliary tool 890. The first improvement point was that the three widening portions including the hinge forming portion 51 for the base end and the widening portions 91 and 92 in the auxiliary tool 800 according to the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 20 were projected upward. However, the point is that the base end hinge widening portion 851, the tip hinge widening portion 842, and the widening portion 891 are projected downward in a tripod shape. Of course, the number of widening portions and the vertical orientation of the protrusions are not particularly limited.

The second improvement is that these three downward widening portions, that is, the base end hinge widening portion 851, the tip hinge widening portion 842, and the widening portion 891 all have a tapered shape in which the tip side is thinner than the base end side. The diameter of the virtual inscribed circle that connects the two is large on the tip side and small on the base end side. Therefore, even if the central axis of the auxiliary tool 890 is displaced in the process of integrating with the screw cap 10, the head of the cap 10 can be easily attracted and fitted within a range of, for example, about 1 to 2 mm. I can wear it.

The third improvement is that these three downward widening portions, that is, the base end hinge widening portion 851, the tip hinge widening portion 842, and the widening portion 891 are central angles Q, R, arranged with respect to the circumferential direction. T (FIG. 28) is not necessarily limited to an even 120 °. Instead, the base end hinge widening portion 851 is formed to include the base end hinge 21, and similarly, the tip end hinge widening portion 842 is formed to include the tip end hinge 42.

Regarding this point, the base end hinge forming portion 51 in the auxiliary tool 800 according to the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 20 includes a base end hinge 21, but the widening portion 92 includes a tip hinge 42. Instead, the base end hinge forming portions 51 and the widening portions 91 and 92 are different in that they are evenly arranged at 120 °. The reason why the auxiliary tool 800 arranges the three downward widening portions evenly at 120 ° is that the above-mentioned tapping can be performed at a speed of about 10 per second by further simplifying the phase defining means. This is to facilitate adaptation to the operation of a high-speed plugging machine or the like.

On the other hand, in the present auxiliary tool 890 according to the 14th embodiment, it is not always necessary to limit the three downward widening portions to a uniform 120 °. The reason is that the three downward widening parts do not come into direct contact with a high-speed plugging machine, etc., but rather, it is sufficient if they can be kept horizontal when placed on a horizontal and flat table. Because.

As for the auxiliary tool 890 according to the 14th embodiment, the auxiliary tool 800 according to the 8th embodiment shown in FIG. 20 or the auxiliary tool 900 according to the 9th embodiment shown in FIG. 21 is a screw cap 10. It has the same or better effect as the one fitted in. Equivalent action and effect means that both of these bring about the same usability for the end consumer, that is, the opening assisting effect.

Further, the action and effect equal to or higher than that is the action and effect that facilitates adaptation to the operation of the high-speed tapping machine or the like capable of tapping at a speed of about 10 per second described above. That is, in the step of integrating with the screw cap 10, even if the central axis is displaced, the head of the cap 10 can be easily attracted and fitted within a certain range.

[15th Embodiment]
Next, the fifteenth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 31 and 32. In addition, additional effects will be described later with reference to FIG. 34. FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the auxiliary tool according to the fifteenth embodiment of the present invention, looking down from diagonally above. FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the auxiliary tool of FIG. 31 looking up from diagonally below. The auxiliary tool 990 according to the fifteenth embodiment shown in FIGS. 31 and 32 is a modification of the auxiliary tool 890 according to the fourteenth embodiment shown in FIG. Horizontally continuous, a skirted lower edge is formed.

Such an auxiliary tool 890 has a funnel-shaped skirt at the lower edge of the auxiliary tool 700 with a skirt shown in FIG. It is similar to being extended. Such a skirt has an action effect of absorbing the core deviation and facilitating and ensuring the attachment even for a fitting object having a certain degree of core deviation.

[Additional effects]
Next, with reference to FIGS. 33 and 34, the present auxiliary tools 890, 99 according to the 14th and 15th embodiments are used.
For 0, additional effects will be described. FIG. 33 is a front view for explaining how the auxiliary tool according to the fourteenth embodiment shown in FIGS. 28 to 30 is fitted to the screw cap in three stages, FIG. 33 (A). Is a front view showing a state before fitting, FIG. 33 (B) is a state during fitting, and FIG. 33 (C) is a front view showing a state after fitting. As shown in FIGS. 33 (A) to 33 (C), the auxiliary tool 890 according to the 14th embodiment has, for example, even if the central axis is displaced in the process of integrating with the screw cap 10. It is shown that the head of the screw cap 10 can be easily attracted and fitted within a range of about 1 to 2 mm.

The auxiliary tool 890 has three downward widening portions each having a tapered shape whose tip side is thinner than the proximal end side, and the diameter of the virtual inscribed circle connecting these three is large on the distal end side and small on the proximal end side. Therefore, even if the central axis of the auxiliary tool 890 is deviated from the screw cap 10, the auxiliary tool 890 can absorb it to some extent. As a result, in the process of integrating with the screw cap 10, there is an effect that it becomes easier to cope with higher speed.

FIG. 34 is a front view for explaining how the auxiliary tool according to the fifteenth embodiment shown in FIGS. 31 and 32 is fitted to the screw cap in three stages, FIG. 34 (A). Is a front view showing a state before fitting, FIG. 34 (B) is a state during fitting, and FIG. 34 (C) is a front view showing a state after fitting. As shown in FIGS. 34 (A) to 33 (C), the auxiliary tool 990 according to the fifteenth embodiment has a core shake that distorts the linearity of the central axis in the step of integrating with the screw cap 10. Even if it occurs, it is shown that the head of the screw cap 10 can be easily attracted and fitted within a certain angle range.

In this auxiliary tool 990, the lower edge widening portion has a tapered shape in which the tip side is thinner than the proximal end side, and the diameter of the inner peripheral circle connecting these is large on the distal end side and small on the proximal end side. Therefore, even if the linearity of the central axis with the screw cap 10 is distorted, the auxiliary tool 990 can absorb it to some extent. As a result, in the process of integrating with the screw cap 10, there is an effect that it becomes easier to cope with higher speed. Regarding the deviation of the central axis shown in FIG. 33) and the linear distortion of the central axis shown in FIG. 34, the auxiliary tool 890 according to the 14th embodiment and the book according to the 15th embodiment. The action and effect are almost the same as those of the auxiliary tool 990, that is, the attraction effect is applied to the fitting target having a certain degree of core blur, so that the core blur is absorbed and the fitting is easy and reliable. The effect of making it is obtained.

[summary]
FIG. 35 is a list summarizing the features and the like of the operation unit and the ring-fitting unit for each embodiment. As shown in FIG. 35, the first to fifteenth embodiments are a combination of the operating portion and the ring-fitting portion with different characteristics, and are in the "drawing" column or "related drawing" in the table. It is clearly shown in the drawing specified in the column. There are five types of operation unit features: "lever", "substantially U-shaped connecting band", "extension lever", "point of action joint", and "oblique hinge". In addition to the "standard", the features of the ring fitting include "thin wall part", "skirt", "upward 3 widening part", "downward 1 widening part", and "upward 3 widening part / thin wall part". There are 6 types. The contents related to FIGS. 4 and 5 are excluded from the list shown in FIG. 35.

The “lever” is as shown in each figure as the lever 33. The "substantially U-shaped connecting band" is a flexible band-shaped portion from the tip 42 to the second section 44. The "extension lever" is a lever 33 extended long from the base end 31.
The "point of action joint" is a joint of the point of action 39 to the pseudo outer peripheral surface 27. The "oblique hinge" is as shown in FIGS. 16 and 27 as the oblique deflection type hinge 23. The "standard" is as shown in each figure as the ring-fitting portion 50. The “thin wall portion” is as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 as the thin wall portion P.

The "skirt" is a funnel-shaped skirt that extends to the lower edge of the skirted auxiliary tool 700 shown in FIG. 19 and has an opening that is diagonally wider than the other average inner diameters. .. Similar ones are also shown in FIGS. 31, 32 and 34. The "upward three widening portion" is three widening portions including a hinge forming portion 51 for the base end and widening portions 91 and 92 having a height W equivalent thereto, as shown in FIG. 20.
The “downward 1 widening portion” is the base end hinge forming portion 51 shown in FIG.

The "upward 3 widening portion / thin wall portion" has a configuration having both the above-mentioned "upward 3 widening portion" and the "thin wall portion", and is as shown in FIGS. 28 to 30 and 33. The "upward three widening portion / thin-walled portion" has a configuration in which the above-mentioned "skirt" and "thin-walled portion" are combined, and is as shown in FIGS. 31, 32, and 34. In addition, each of these features is also described in the related form specified in the list shown in FIG. 35 and the related figure.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention may be adopted for a container that opens and closes a spout portion of a liquid storage bottle such as a PET bottle with a screw cap. In addition, this assistive device may be adopted as a professional support product for people with physical handicap (Handicap) including the elderly. Furthermore, it may be adopted as a standard product based on social approval. In particular, it is suitable for a screw cap that has a chevron shape before closing or that may be deformed into a barrel shape after closing.

1 to 3 grooves, 4 ridges, 8 fittings, 9, 10, 15, 16 screw caps, 11 cylinder body, 12 tamper evidence bands, 13, 81, 82 initial coupling bridges, 14 fixed claws, 18 ( Outer surface (of screw cap 10), 19, 29 laurets, 21 base end hinge (first hinge part), 22 tip hinge (second hinge part), 23 oblique deflection type hinge, 24, 25 (outer surface 18) Concentric arc, 27 pseudo-outer surface, 28 convex part, 30,40 operation part, 31,41 base end (of operation part 30,40), 32,42 tip (of operation part 30,40), 43,44 Position (close to tips 32, 42), 33, 35, 36 levers, 34 warp (opposite arc), 37, 39 points of action, 38 recesses, 43 first section, 44 second section, 50 fittings Ring part, 51 base end hinge forming part, 851 base end hinge widening part, 59, 60, 61, 70 belt, 62 lightening hole, 91, 92, 891 widening part, 100, 101, 102, 110, 111, 200 to 900, 890, 990 Screw cap rotation assist tool, 210, 310, 410, 510 Rotation assist type cap, 842 tip hinge widening part, D (of cylinder body 11 of screw cap 10) outer diameter, E diameter expansion direction , F Opening direction, G Closing direction, H (of the cylinder body 11 of the screw cap 10), J (of the warped portion 34 of the operating unit 30) length, K diameter reduction direction, M (opening operation) Finger, N, P, S (belt) thickness, O (screw cap 10) center, P thin part, Q, R, T, α, β, γ, θ1, θ2 center angle, V Width (of uniform area), W (wider than width V) width, X (diameter of cylinder body 11 of screw cap 10 expanded) difference, Y (diameter of top outer diameter and bottom outer diameter of screw cap 10) difference , ΠD Length of the entire circumference (of the outer peripheral surface 18)

Claims (20)

A screw cap rotation aid that applies torque in the opening and / or closing directions to the screw cap.
A ring portion that can be fitted to the outer peripheral surface of the body cylinder portion of the screw cap and has a slip prevention portion that is provided in the fitting portion and can be engaged in the circumferential direction.
An operation unit that is arranged on the outer circumference of the ring portion and extends along the outer circumference from the base end to the tip end.
A first hinge portion that connects the operation portion and the outer circumference and rotatably supports the operation portion is provided at the base end of the operation portion or in the vicinity of the base end.
The fitting ring portion is formed with a detachment prevention mechanism for preventing the screw cap from detaching from the outer peripheral surface.
The operation unit has a first coordination form in which the operation unit is brought close to the outer circumference, and the operation unit is rotated around the first hinge portion as a fulcrum so that the tip is separated from the outer circumference in the diameter expansion direction. A screw cap rotation assisting tool characterized in that it is configured to be able to transition to the second coordination form developed in. The screw cap rotation assisting tool according to claim 1, wherein the detachment prevention mechanism is provided on the inner peripheral side of the ring portion and / or the lower end portion of the ring portion. The average height of the detachment prevention mechanism is set to half or less of the height of the cylinder body portion, and the lower end side of the fitting ring portion is configured to be coordinable in the vicinity of the opening edge of the screw cap. The screw cap rotation assisting tool according to claim 1 or 2. The ring portion has a first hinge forming portion provided with the first hinge portion, and the first hinge forming portion is widened in the axial direction and is larger than the average height of the fitting portion. The screw cap rotation assisting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a widening portion having a long axial length. The ring portion is any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the wall thickness of the first hinge forming portion and its periphery thereof is set to be thicker than that of the other portion in the circumferential direction of the fitting ring portion. Screw cap rotation aid described in the crab. The screw cap rotation assisting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the fitting ring portion is set so that the inner diameter thereof is gradually narrowed from the upper portion to the lower portion as the detachment prevention mechanism. .. The screw cap rotation assist according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the fitting ring portion is set so that the wall thickness gradually increases from the upper part to the lower part as the detachment prevention mechanism. Ingredients. As the disengagement prevention mechanism, an engaging portion that engages with the screw cap to prevent disengagement in the height direction is provided inside the fitting ring portion in a radial inward direction and in the circumferential direction. The screw cap rotation assisting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the screw cap rotation assisting tool is provided continuously, intermittently, or partially. The disengagement prevention mechanism according to claim 1 to 8, wherein an engaging portion that engages with the screw cap to prevent disengagement in the height direction is formed in the lower portion of the fitting ring portion. The screw cap rotation assisting tool described in any of them. The detachment prevention mechanism is
Engage with the screw cap, which is provided continuously, intermittently, or partially in the circumferential direction on the inside of the ring portion so as to be convex inward in the radial direction, to prevent detachment in the height direction. The engaging part is
The claim is characterized in that it is configured by engaging with an engaging receiving portion on a circumference provided continuously or intermittently at an intermediate portion and / or a lower end portion of the body cylinder portion of the screw cap. The screw cap rotation assisting tool according to 8 or 9. One end is connected to the tip of the rigid portion of the operation portion, the other end is connected via the second hinge portion on the outer periphery of the fitting ring portion, and the rotation of the operation portion with the first hinge portion as a fulcrum. The screw cap rotation assisting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a connecting band configured to be stretchable between the tip of the rigid portion and the second hinge portion with movement. .. The screw cap rotation assist according to claim 11, wherein the connecting band extends in a substantially tangential direction of the outer peripheral surface of the screw cap with the second hinge portion as a contact point at the time of extension. Ingredients. The connecting band is substantially C-shaped, substantially J-shaped, or substantially L, which is an extension of the operating portion in the circumferential direction or warped so as to overlap the operating portion when the operating portion is in the first coordination form. Glyph, approximately M-shaped, approximately N-shaped, approximately S-shaped, approximately U-shaped, approximately V-shaped, approximately W-shaped, approximately Z-shaped, approximately m-shaped, approximately n-shaped, approximately r-shaped, approximately inverted V-shaped, approximately π-shaped , Abbreviated Σ-shaped, abbreviated Y-shaped, abbreviated Ω-shaped, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, abbreviated glyph, etc. The screw cap rotation assisting tool according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the screw cap rotation assisting tool is configured to have a bent shape (a posture in a non-extended state) composed of a bent shape or a combination thereof. The screw cap rotation assisting tool according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the wall thickness of the connecting band is set to be thinner than the average wall thickness of the operating portion. In the appropriate part inside the operation part,
Any of claims 1 to 14, wherein when not in use, the inner portion of the operating portion and the outer peripheral portion of the fitting ring portion are connected, and when in use, the operating portion has an easily cut portion that can be torn relatively easily. Screw cap rotation aid described in. A fitting portion for stably holding the operation portion with respect to the outer circumference is provided at an appropriate portion inside the operation portion and at the opposite portion on the outer circumference facing the appropriate portion. The screw cap rotation assisting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 15. The screw cap rotation assisting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the fitting ring portion is provided with through or non-penetrating lightening holes on the front and back surfaces. The screw cap rotation assisting tool according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the fitting ring portion is provided with an attracting portion in which a lower opening is gradually expanded downward. Claims 10 to 18 are characterized in that the fitting ring portion has two or more widening portions including a first hinge widening portion and a second hinge widening portion provided by widening upward and / or downward. The screw cap rotation assisting tool described in any of the above. The first hinge widening portion and the second hinge widening portion both have a tapered shape whose tip side is thinner than the proximal end side, and the diameter of the virtual inscribed circle connecting these widening portions is large on the distal end side and small on the proximal end side. The screw cap rotation assisting tool according to claim 19.

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