US20100089862A1 - Closure to be pressed and latched onto a container - Google Patents
Closure to be pressed and latched onto a container Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20100089862A1 US20100089862A1 US12/586,589 US58658909A US2010089862A1 US 20100089862 A1 US20100089862 A1 US 20100089862A1 US 58658909 A US58658909 A US 58658909A US 2010089862 A1 US2010089862 A1 US 2010089862A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- cap
- container
- closure
- stopper
- closure according
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D51/00—Closures not otherwise provided for
- B65D51/002—Closures to be pierced by an extracting-device for the contents and fixed on the container by separate retaining means
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D51/00—Closures not otherwise provided for
- B65D51/24—Closures not otherwise provided for combined or co-operating with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes
- B65D51/241—Closures not otherwise provided for combined or co-operating with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes provided with freeze-drying means
Definitions
- the invention relates to a closure for a container, comprising a cap, said cap forming an interior space into which a stopper can be inserted in the axial direction in order to seal the container, and said cap having holding members that protrude into the interior space and that hold the stopper.
- Closures of the above-mentioned type are used to close containers made of glass or plastic and containing substances that have been, for example, freeze-dried or sterilized. These containers are especially small bottles or vials made of glass or plastic from which sterilized or freeze-dried substances can be withdrawn using an injection syringe.
- the containers are sealed vis-à-vis the atmosphere by a stopper made of rubber, said stopper being permanently secured in the container by a cap. It is especially known from the state of the art to insert a stopper made of rubber into an vial made of glass and to tightly join the stopper to the vial by means of a metal cap.
- the substance to be held is introduced into the container and the closure along with the stopper is first placed onto the container in such a way that a passage connects the interior of the container to the atmosphere. In this drying position, it is possible to dry the substance inside the container.
- the stopper is first inserted into the cap in the axial direction and secured in it by means of holding members. The closure that has been pre-fabricated in this manner can now be transported and placed onto the container.
- international patent application WO 2007/063218 A1 discloses holding members that surround the stopper in the circumferential direction and clamp it in place.
- a flat surface on the upper section of the stopper can be brought into contact with a counter-surface on the cap.
- a drawback here is that the stopper cannot be adequately cleaned or sterilized when the closure is resting on the container. Since the flat surface is in contact with a counter-surface on the cap, steam cannot adequately reach this flat surface. Moreover, it is disadvantageous that the stopper can fall out of the cap during the transportation of the closure if the clamping effect of the cap is not adequate.
- the invention is based on an objective of configuring and refining a closure of the above-mentioned type in such a way that a stopper accommodated in the cap is secured therein so that it cannot fall out and so that it can be cleaned or sterilized without any problem together with the container, with the substance contained therein and with the cap.
- the present invention provides a closure for a container, comprising a cap, said cap forming an interior space into which a stopper can be inserted in the axial direction in order to seal the container, and said cap having holding members that protrude into the interior space, characterized in that the holding members latch the stopper in such a way that the latter is affixed in a prescribed position in the axial direction.
- a closure for a container of the above-mentioned type is characterized in that the holding members latch the stopper in such a way that the latter is affixed in a prescribed position in the axial direction.
- the stopper latching the stopper by means of the holding members joins the stopper to the cap so that it cannot fall out.
- the axial fixation of the stopper in a prescribed position makes it possible for a sterilizing agent to flow around the stopper to such an extent that the latter is adequately cleaned.
- the cap and the stopper can be sterilized together.
- the fixation of the stopper in a prescribed position prevents individual surfaces or areas of the stopper from resting against the cap in such a way that the sterilizing agent cannot reach these surfaces or areas.
- the container is largely protected against the penetration of impurities when the closure is in the drying position.
- the substance that had been previously introduced into the container can be dried in the drying position.
- a closure is being put forward which accommodates the stopper that seals the container in such a manner that the stopper cannot fall out, and which can be sterilized or dried together with the container as well as with the substance contained therein. Consequently, the above-mentioned objective is achieved.
- the holding members can be configured as tabs that are elastically coupled to the inside of the cap.
- This concrete embodiment makes it possible to insert the stopper into the cap in the axial direction in such a manner that the tabs are pressed outwards in the radial direction. Once the stopper has passed the tabs, the elastic coupling of the tabs allows them to snap radially inwards and engage behind the stopper.
- the cap could have at least one spacer that protrudes into the interior space and that cooperates with the holding members during the axial fixation of the stopper.
- the spacer ensures that the stopper is affixed in a prescribed position so that agent can flow around the stopper. It is prevented that the stopper comes into contact with a larger surface area of the counter-surface on the cap.
- the spacers could be configured in the form of nubs and they could protrude from the inside of the cap into the interior space in the axial direction.
- a flat surface of the stopper can rest punctually against the inside of the cap.
- a sterilizing agent such as, for example, steam or a cleaning agent can flow around the nubbed spacers and the stopper at the same time. The punctual contact of the flat surface of the stopper against the spacers minimizes the surface area that is not reached by the sterilizing agents or cleaning agents.
- the cap could be latched to a stopper that has a sealing section and an upper section that is wider than the sealing section.
- a stopper is particularly well-suited for insertion into a container having a constricted neck.
- the sealing section can fit into the container neck so as to seal the container, whereby the upper section comes to lie on a widened edge of the container so as to seal it.
- thanks to the widened upper section of said stopper it can be latched to the holding members so that it cannot fall out when said stopper is being transported to the container and held on it in a drying position.
- the stopper should be able to withstand temperatures ranging from ⁇ 50° C. to 121° C. [ ⁇ 58° F. to 249.8° F.].
- the extremely low temperatures occur when a substance is freeze-dried in the container. Temperatures of 121° C. [249.8° F.] or more can occur during sterilization with steam.
- the upper section of the stopper could be located between the holding members and the spacers, whereby the holding members engage behind the upper section and whereby the sealing section protrudes axially. Due to this concrete embodiment, the closure can be transported to the container, whereby the stopper is secured in the cap in such a way that it cannot fall out. Moreover, the axially protruding sealing section can be inserted into the neck of the container.
- the stopper could have a sealing section whose outer circumference has a slit-shaped cutout in order to create a passage.
- This slit-shaped cutout ensures that a flow connection exists between the interior of the container and the atmosphere when the closure is placed in a drying position on the container.
- the slit-shaped cutout forms a passage when the sealing section of the stopper protrudes into the container when the closure has been placed onto the container.
- Such a slit-shaped cutout is not necessary if the sealing section of the stopper is so short that it does not protrude into the neck of the container when the closure has been placed onto the container. In this case, a passage exists between the edge of the container and the lower end of the stopper, which does not protrude into the neck of the container.
- the closure can be pressed onto the container and can be permanently joined to the container.
- the clamping members be configured as tabs that are elastically coupled to the inside of the cap.
- the neck of the container together with the edge of the container, can be inserted into the cap in the axial direction and the tabs are pressed outwards in the radial direction. Once the edge of the container has passed the tabs, due to this elastic coupling, said tabs can snap back to their original position and engage behind the edge of the container.
- At least two tabs could be arranged at equal distances as clamping members.
- Four tabs have proven to be especially advantageous in order to tightly and permanently join the closure to the container.
- the equidistant arrangement of the tabs ensures that the closure is uniformly pressed along the circumference of the container.
- the clamping members can also serve as a stop when the closure is in the drying position on the container.
- clamping elements On the inside of the cap, there could be clamping elements that are configured as axially oriented webs that protrude into the interior space.
- the configuration of clamping elements allows the closure to be guided or centered when it is pressed onto the container. Furthermore, the clamping elements generate a clamping effect by means of which the cap—when it is in the drying position—is pressed against the edge of the container.
- the cap could have a tamper-proof closure that is detachably coupled to the cap in order to free a puncture site for an injection syringe.
- the tamper-proof closure indicates to the user that the container is intact. Only once the tamper-proof closure has been torn open is the puncture site accessible for an injection syringe. The puncture site can be protected against impurities by the tamper-proof closure.
- the cap could have a support element for pretensioning a grip section of the tamper-proof closure.
- This concrete embodiment makes it possible to easily grasp the grip section with one's thumbnail and to pull off the tamper-proof closure.
- the cap in light of this, it is conceivable for the cap to have first cap openings that go through the outer circumference of the cap.
- the first cap openings allow the mold-removal of the caps that have been made by injection molding.
- a first cap opening can serve to receive the grip section of the tamper-proof closure. With this concrete embodiment, the grip section that opens into the first cap opening can be grasped by a user very easily.
- the cap could have second cap openings that go through the lid of the cap. These cap openings serve to facilitate the mold-removal of the cap made by means of injection molding.
- the first and second cap openings serve not only to facilitate the mold-removal of the cap after the injection molding, but also to allow the flow of steam or sterilizing agent during the sterilization of the closure and/or to allow gaseous components to escape from the container when the closure is in the drying position on the container.
- the cap in light of this, it is conceivable for the cap to be made of plastic.
- a plastic can be used so that the cap can be made in one member by means of injection molding.
- the cap in light of this, it is concretely conceivable for the cap to be made of polypropylene or HDPE. These materials have proven to be very temperature-stable. This high temperature stability is necessary in order to withstand sterilization by heat or steam.
- the use of a plastic makes it possible to replace the caps made of aluminum that are known from state of the art. In a conventional sterilization procedure, the plastic used has to withstand a temperature of 121° C. [249.8° F.] for at least 20 minutes. Moreover, the plastic used has to be able to withstand at least 24 hours at a very low temperature of ⁇ 50° C. [ ⁇ 58° F.]. The same requirements apply to the material of which the stopper is made.
- a container could have a closure according to one or more of the preceding claims.
- Such a container can be manufactured very cost-effectively while complying with all of the sterility requirements.
- FIG. 1 an exploded view of the closure (with the stopper and the cap) and of the container according to the first embodiment
- FIG. 2 the stopper (top) inserted into the cap and the container from FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 the container and the cap from FIG. 2 in the drying position, in which the cap has been placed partially onto the container;
- FIG. 4 the cap from FIG. 3 placed onto the container in the closed position
- FIG. 5 a the container and the closure from FIG. 1 in a cross section along a first sectional, line;
- FIG. 5 b the container and the closure from FIG. 1 in a cross section along a second sectional line;
- FIG. 6 a the container and the closure from FIG. 2 in a cross section along a first sectional line;
- FIG. 6 b the container and the closure from FIG. 2 in a cross section along a second sectional line;
- FIG. 7 a the container and the closure from FIG. 3 in a cross section along a first sectional line, with the opened passage in the drying position;
- FIG. 7 b the container and the closure from FIG. 3 in a cross section along a second sectional line, with the opened passage in the drying position;
- FIG. 8 a the container and the closure from FIG. 4 in a cross section along a first sectional line, in the closed position;
- FIG. 8 b the container and the closure from FIG. 4 in a cross section along a second sectional line, in the closed position;
- FIG. 9 a a view of the cap from below
- FIG. 9 b a side view of the cap from FIG. 9 a;
- FIG. 9 c a view of the cap from FIG. 9 a from above;
- FIG. 10 an exploded view of a second embodiment, with a different stopper that has a longer sealing section and a cutout formed therein;
- FIG. 11 a cross section of the closure and of the container from FIG. 10 ;
- FIG. 12 the closure and the container from FIG. 11 , with the stopper inserted into the cap;
- FIG. 13 the closure and the container from FIG. 11 in the drying position, with the cap partially in place (passage open);
- FIG. 14 the closure and the container from FIG. 13 in the closed position.
- FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of the closure with the stopper and the cap as well as the container according to a first embodiment.
- FIG. 1 shows a container 1 which can be configured, for example, in the form of a bottle and be made of glass or plastic.
- the container 1 has a constricted neck 2 that is followed by a widened edge 3 .
- the container 1 has an opening 4 that is surrounded by the edge 3 .
- Above the container edge 3 there is a stopper 10 that is to be inserted into the container opening 4 .
- the stopper 10 is made, for instance, of rubber.
- the stopper 10 has a sealing section 11 and an upper section 12 that is wider than the sealing section 11 .
- the stopper 10 or its sealing section 11 is configured so as to be essentially cylindrical.
- the sealing section 11 of the stopper 10 can have an encircling sealing bead to make contact with the container 1 .
- the cap 20 has holding members 22 that protrude into the interior space 29 of the cap 20 .
- the cap 20 also has first cap openings 26 that go through the outer circumference of the cap 20 .
- the cap 20 also has second cap openings 27 that go through the lid of the cap 20 .
- the cap 20 has a tamper-proof closure 24 having a grip section 24 a that protrudes into a first cap opening 26 .
- FIG. 2 shows the stopper 10 inserted into the cap 20 and the container from FIG. 1 .
- the cap 20 can be transported along with the inserted stopper 10 to the container 1 .
- FIG. 3 shows the container 1 and the cap 20 from FIG. 2 in the drying position in which the cap 20 has been placed partially onto the container 1 .
- the closure is placed onto the container 1 in such a way that a passage (described in greater detail below) connects the interior of the container to the atmosphere.
- the container 1 here is largely protected against the penetration of impurities.
- the substances that had been previously introduced into the container 1 can be dried in the drying position.
- the substances can be dried, for instance, through the modality of freeze-drying by applying negative pressure and temperatures below the freezing point.
- the invention is particularly well-suited for drugs, for example, injectable substances, that can be introduced into the container 1 .
- FIG. 4 shows the cap 20 from FIG. 3 placed onto the container 1 in the closed position.
- the closure can be brought into the closed position in which the stopper 10 seals the container 1 .
- the cap 20 of the closure has a tearable tamper-proof closure 24 that frees a puncture site.
- an injection syringe can pierce the stopper 10 and the contents, optionally following the preceding admixture of a solvent such as, for example, water, can be withdrawn.
- FIG. 5 a shows the container 1 and the closure from FIG. 1 in a cross section along a first sectional line.
- FIG. 5 b shows the container 1 and the closure from FIG. 1 in a cross section along a second sectional line.
- the closure for the container 1 comprises the cap 20 , whereby the cap 20 forms an interior space 29 into which the stopper 10 can be inserted in the axial direction in order to seal the container 1 .
- the cap 20 has holding members 22 that serve to hold the stopper 10 and they protrude into the interior space 29 .
- the holding members 22 can latch the stopper 10 in such a manner that the latter is affixed in a prescribed position in the axial direction.
- the holding members 22 are configured as tabs that are elastically coupled to the inside 29 a of the cap 20 .
- the tabs protrude radially inwards.
- Four tabs are arranged as holding members 22 at equal distances along the circumference of the inside 29 a of the cap 20 .
- the cap 20 has spacers 23 that protrude into the interior space 29 and that cooperate with the holding members 22 during the axial fixation of the stopper 10 .
- the spacers 23 are configured in the form of nubs and they protrude into the interior space 29 in the axial direction from the inside 29 a of the cap 20 .
- the cap 20 can be latched to the stopper 10 that has a sealing section 11 and an upper section 12 that is wider than the sealing section 11 .
- the upper section 12 can be positioned between the holding members 22 and the spacers 23 , whereby the holding members 22 engage behind the upper section 12 and whereby the sealing section 11 protrudes axially.
- On the inside 29 a of the cap 20 there are clamping members 21 that engage behind the container edge 3 so as to latch.
- the clamping members 21 are configured as tabs that are elastically coupled to the inside 29 a of the cap 20 .
- Four tabs are arranged as holding members 22 at equal distances along the circumference of the inside 29 a of the
- clamping elements 28 On the inside 29 a of the cap 20 , there are clamping elements 28 that are configured as axially oriented webs that protrude into the interior space 29 .
- the cap 20 has a tamper-proof closure 24 that is detachably coupled to the cap 20 in order to free a puncture site 25 for an injection syringe.
- the cap 20 has a support element 30 (see FIG. 9 b ) for pretensioning the grip section 24 a of the tamper-proof closure 24 .
- the cap 20 has first cap openings 26 that go through the outer circumference of the cap 20 .
- the grip section 24 a of the tamper-proof closure 24 protrudes into a first cap opening 26 (see FIG. 3 ).
- the cap 20 has second cap openings 27 that go through the lid of the cap 20 .
- the first cap openings 26 and second cap openings 27 allow agents to flow through the cap 20 during sterilization or freeze-drying procedures.
- the cap 20 is made of a plastic. In particular, it can have a wall thickness W between 0.2 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 0.5 mm and 2 mm.
- FIG. 6 a shows the container 1 and the closure from FIG. 2 in a cross section along a first sectional line.
- FIG. 6 b shows the container 1 and the closure from FIG. 2 in a cross section along a second sectional line.
- the cap 20 is latched to the stopper 10 that has a sealing section 11 and an upper section 12 that is wider than the sealing section 11 .
- the upper section 12 lies between the holding members and the spacers 23 , whereby the holding members 22 engage behind the upper section 12 and whereby the sealing section 11 protrudes into the container 1 in the axial direction.
- the stopper 10 is configured so as to be essentially cylindrical and it has a concave indentation that allows the sealing section 11 to compress slightly in the radial direction during insertion into the neck 2 of the container 1 . As a result of the fact that the stopper 10 is latched to the cap 20 , these two members can be sterilized together.
- the first cap openings 26 and the second cap openings 27 permit steam or sterilizing agent to flow out of the interior of the container through the cap 20 and past the stopper 10 . In this process, steam or sterilizing agent can flow around the stopper 10 .
- the holding members 22 latch the stopper 10 in such a manner that the latter is affixed in a prescribed position in the axial direction. Even though the stopper 10 can be turned in the cap 20 , it can no longer be moved up or down, except for a small amount of play.
- the spacers 23 prevent the stopper 10 from moving downwards.
- FIG. 7 a shows the container 1 and the closure from FIG. 3 in a cross section along a first sectional line, with an opened passage 13 in the drying position.
- FIG. 7 b shows the container and the closure from FIG. 3 in a cross section along a second sectional line, with the opened passage 13 in the drying position.
- the closure is placed onto the container 1 in such a way that a passage 13 connects the interior of the container to the atmosphere.
- the passage 13 is ring-shaped and is formed by a gap created between the stopper 10 and the container 1 .
- the container 1 In this drying position, the container 1 is largely protected against the penetration of impurities. The substances that had been previously introduced into the container 1 can be dried in this drying position.
- the holding members 22 latch to the stopper 10 in such a way that the latter is affixed in a prescribed position in the axial direction. Moreover, the clamping members 21 form a stop for contact against the container, thus facilitating the positioning of the stopper 10 .
- FIG. 8 a shows the container 1 and the closure from FIG. 4 in a cross section along a first sectional line, in the closed position.
- FIG. 8 b shows the container 1 and the closure from FIG. 4 in a cross section along a second sectional line, in the closed position.
- the stopper 10 seals the container 1 .
- the container edge 3 presses the holding members 22 radially outwards, so that these free the stopper 10 .
- the upper section 12 of the stopper 10 now lies on the container edge 3 so as to create a seal.
- the sealing section 11 is inserted into the container 1 and seals it by making contact against the container 1 .
- clamping members 21 On the inside 29 a of the cap 20 , there are clamping members 21 that engage behind an edge 3 of the container so as to latch.
- the clamping members 21 are configured as tabs that are elastically coupled to the inside 29 a of the cap 20 .
- Four tabs are arranged as holding members 22 at equal distances along the circumference of the inside 29 a of the cap 20 and they engage behind the container edge 3 so as to latch.
- the cap 20 of the closure has a tearable tamper-proof closure 24 that frees a puncture site 25 .
- an injection syringe can pierce through the stopper 10 and the contents, optionally following the preceding admixture of a solvent such as, for example, water, can be withdrawn.
- FIG. 9 a shows a view of the cap 20 from below.
- the spacers 23 configured in the form of nubs and arranged in a circle.
- the holding members 22 and the clamping members 21 lie above each other and are offset with respect to each other on the inside 29 a of the cap 20 .
- FIG. 9 a also shows the tamper-proof closure 24 that is fitted with a grip section 24 a.
- FIG. 9 b shows a side view of the cap 20 from FIG. 9 a .
- FIG. 9 b shows that the cap 20 has a support element 30 for pretensioning the grip section 24 a of the tamper-proof closure 24 .
- the grip section 24 a of the tamper-proof closure 24 protrudes into a first cap opening 26 .
- the grip section 24 a of the tamper-proof closure 24 can be grasped by a user very easily.
- the support element 30 lies on the stopper 10 in such a way that it presses the grip section 24 slightly upwards in the axial direction. This makes it easier for the user to grasp the grip section 24 a.
- FIG. 9 c shows a view of the cap 20 from FIG. 9 a from above. This view shows the second cap openings 27 that are arranged along the circumference. The first cap openings 26 in the outer circumference of the cap 20 can also be seen. Finally, FIG. 9 c shows the tamper-proof closure 24 with its grip section 24 a. The tamper-proof closure 24 has the shape of the Greek letter omega as seen from above.
- FIG. 10 shows an exploded view of a second embodiment, with a stopper 10 ′ that has a longer sealing section 11 ′ and a cutout 14 formed therein.
- the stopper 10 ′ has a sealing section 11 ′ whose outer circumference has a slit-shaped cutout 14 in order to create a passage shown in FIG. 13 .
- FIG. 11 shows a cross section of the closure and of the container from FIG. 10 .
- the cross section according to FIG. 11 shows that the stopper 10 ′ has a sealing section 11 ′ whose outer circumference there has a slit-shaped cutout 14 in order to create the passage.
- the slit-shaped cutout 14 extends approximately from the center of the sealing section 11 ′ all the way to its end facing away from the upper section 12 ′.
- the stopper 10 ′ has a sealing section 11 ′ with a concave indentation that allows the sealing section 11 ′ to compress in the radial direction during insertion into the container 1 .
- the stopper 10 ′ has a sealing section 11 ′ and an upper section 12 ′ that is wider than the sealing section 11 ′.
- FIG. 12 shows the closure and the container 1 from FIG. 11 , with the stopper 10 ′ inserted into the cap 20 .
- the holding members 22 latch the stopper 10 ′ in such a way that it is affixed in a prescribed position in the axial direction.
- the cap 20 has spacers 23 that protrude into the interior space 29 and cooperate with the holding members 22 during the axial fixation of the stopper 10 ′.
- the upper section 12 ′ lies between the holding members 22 and the spacers 23 , whereby the holding members 22 engage behind the upper section 12 ′, and whereby the sealing section 11 ′ protrudes axially in the direction of the container 1 .
- FIG. 13 shows the closure and the container from FIG. 12 in the drying position, with the cap 20 partially in place. Even though the sealing section 11 ′ protrudes into the container 1 , a passage 13 is formed in the outer circumference of the sealing section 11 ′ by the slit-shaped cutout 14 . This passage 13 connects the interior of the container to the atmosphere.
- FIG. 14 shows the closure and the container 1 from FIG. 13 in the closed position.
- the upper section 12 ′ of the stopper 10 ′ rests on the container edge 3 so as to seal it.
- the sealing section 11 ′ is accommodated in the container 1 and rests against the container interior so as to seal it.
- the container edge 3 presses the holding members 22 radially outwards.
- the holding members 22 are now no longer resting on the stopper 10 ′.
- the stopper 10 ′ is positioned between the container edge 3 and the spacers 23 on the cap 20 .
- the clamping members 21 on the cap 20 engage behind the container edge 3 .
Abstract
Based on an objective of configuring and refining a closure in such a way that a stopper accommodated in the cap is secured therein so that it cannot fall out and so that it can be cleaned or sterilized without any problem together with the container, with the substance contained therein and with the cap, a closure for a container, includes a cap, the cap forming an interior space into which a stopper can be inserted in the axial direction in order to seal the container, and the cap having holding members that protrude into the interior space, is characterized in that the holding members latch the stopper in such a way that the latter is affixed in a prescribed position in the axial direction.
Description
- This claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/196,629, filed on Oct. 20, 2008, through German Patent Application No. DE 10 2008 051 351.2, filed on Oct. 15, 2008, and through German Patent Application No. DE 10 2008 050.931.0, filed on Oct. 10, 2008, which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
- The invention relates to a closure for a container, comprising a cap, said cap forming an interior space into which a stopper can be inserted in the axial direction in order to seal the container, and said cap having holding members that protrude into the interior space and that hold the stopper.
- Such a closure has already been disclosed in international patent application WO 2007/063218 A1. Closures of the above-mentioned type are used to close containers made of glass or plastic and containing substances that have been, for example, freeze-dried or sterilized. These containers are especially small bottles or vials made of glass or plastic from which sterilized or freeze-dried substances can be withdrawn using an injection syringe.
- The containers are sealed vis-à-vis the atmosphere by a stopper made of rubber, said stopper being permanently secured in the container by a cap. It is especially known from the state of the art to insert a stopper made of rubber into an vial made of glass and to tightly join the stopper to the vial by means of a metal cap.
- During the production of such a container, the substance to be held is introduced into the container and the closure along with the stopper is first placed onto the container in such a way that a passage connects the interior of the container to the atmosphere. In this drying position, it is possible to dry the substance inside the container. For this purpose, the stopper is first inserted into the cap in the axial direction and secured in it by means of holding members. The closure that has been pre-fabricated in this manner can now be transported and placed onto the container.
- For purposes of securing the stopper in the cap, international patent application WO 2007/063218 A1 discloses holding members that surround the stopper in the circumferential direction and clamp it in place. Here, a flat surface on the upper section of the stopper can be brought into contact with a counter-surface on the cap.
- A drawback here is that the stopper cannot be adequately cleaned or sterilized when the closure is resting on the container. Since the flat surface is in contact with a counter-surface on the cap, steam cannot adequately reach this flat surface. Moreover, it is disadvantageous that the stopper can fall out of the cap during the transportation of the closure if the clamping effect of the cap is not adequate.
- Consequently, the invention is based on an objective of configuring and refining a closure of the above-mentioned type in such a way that a stopper accommodated in the cap is secured therein so that it cannot fall out and so that it can be cleaned or sterilized without any problem together with the container, with the substance contained therein and with the cap.
- The present invention provides a closure for a container, comprising a cap, said cap forming an interior space into which a stopper can be inserted in the axial direction in order to seal the container, and said cap having holding members that protrude into the interior space, characterized in that the holding members latch the stopper in such a way that the latter is affixed in a prescribed position in the axial direction.
- According to this, a closure for a container of the above-mentioned type is characterized in that the holding members latch the stopper in such a way that the latter is affixed in a prescribed position in the axial direction.
- According to the invention, it has been recognized that latching the stopper by means of the holding members joins the stopper to the cap so that it cannot fall out. The axial fixation of the stopper in a prescribed position makes it possible for a sterilizing agent to flow around the stopper to such an extent that the latter is adequately cleaned. In this process, the cap and the stopper can be sterilized together. The fixation of the stopper in a prescribed position prevents individual surfaces or areas of the stopper from resting against the cap in such a way that the sterilizing agent cannot reach these surfaces or areas. Moreover, the cap—together with the stopper that has been inserted into its interior—can be transported to a container. The closure can then be placed onto the container and brought into a drying position. According to the invention, the container is largely protected against the penetration of impurities when the closure is in the drying position. The substance that had been previously introduced into the container can be dried in the drying position. Here, it is conceivable to dry the substance through the modality of freeze-drying by applying negative pressure and temperatures below the freezing point. Thus, a closure is being put forward which accommodates the stopper that seals the container in such a manner that the stopper cannot fall out, and which can be sterilized or dried together with the container as well as with the substance contained therein. Consequently, the above-mentioned objective is achieved.
- The holding members can be configured as tabs that are elastically coupled to the inside of the cap. This concrete embodiment makes it possible to insert the stopper into the cap in the axial direction in such a manner that the tabs are pressed outwards in the radial direction. Once the stopper has passed the tabs, the elastic coupling of the tabs allows them to snap radially inwards and engage behind the stopper.
- In light of this, it is conceivable for at least two tabs to be arranged as holding members at equal distances along the circumference of the inside of the cap. The equidistant arrangement allows a uniform latching of the stopper. It has been found that four tabs are particularly advantageous for the correct positioning of the stopper in the cap.
- The cap could have at least one spacer that protrudes into the interior space and that cooperates with the holding members during the axial fixation of the stopper. The spacer ensures that the stopper is affixed in a prescribed position so that agent can flow around the stopper. It is prevented that the stopper comes into contact with a larger surface area of the counter-surface on the cap.
- In light of this, the spacers could be configured in the form of nubs and they could protrude from the inside of the cap into the interior space in the axial direction. Owing to this concrete embodiment, a flat surface of the stopper can rest punctually against the inside of the cap. A sterilizing agent such as, for example, steam or a cleaning agent can flow around the nubbed spacers and the stopper at the same time. The punctual contact of the flat surface of the stopper against the spacers minimizes the surface area that is not reached by the sterilizing agents or cleaning agents.
- The cap could be latched to a stopper that has a sealing section and an upper section that is wider than the sealing section. Such a stopper is particularly well-suited for insertion into a container having a constricted neck. The sealing section can fit into the container neck so as to seal the container, whereby the upper section comes to lie on a widened edge of the container so as to seal it. Moreover, thanks to the widened upper section of said stopper, it can be latched to the holding members so that it cannot fall out when said stopper is being transported to the container and held on it in a drying position.
- In light of this, it is conceivable to make the stopper out of rubber or thermoplastic elastomer. Advantageously, the stopper should be able to withstand temperatures ranging from −50° C. to 121° C. [−58° F. to 249.8° F.]. The extremely low temperatures occur when a substance is freeze-dried in the container. Temperatures of 121° C. [249.8° F.] or more can occur during sterilization with steam.
- The upper section of the stopper could be located between the holding members and the spacers, whereby the holding members engage behind the upper section and whereby the sealing section protrudes axially. Due to this concrete embodiment, the closure can be transported to the container, whereby the stopper is secured in the cap in such a way that it cannot fall out. Moreover, the axially protruding sealing section can be inserted into the neck of the container.
- The stopper could have a sealing section whose outer circumference has a slit-shaped cutout in order to create a passage. This slit-shaped cutout ensures that a flow connection exists between the interior of the container and the atmosphere when the closure is placed in a drying position on the container. The slit-shaped cutout forms a passage when the sealing section of the stopper protrudes into the container when the closure has been placed onto the container. Such a slit-shaped cutout is not necessary if the sealing section of the stopper is so short that it does not protrude into the neck of the container when the closure has been placed onto the container. In this case, a passage exists between the edge of the container and the lower end of the stopper, which does not protrude into the neck of the container.
- On the inside of the cap, there could be clamping members that engage behind an edge of the container so as to latch. By means of this concrete embodiment, the closure can be pressed onto the container and can be permanently joined to the container.
- In light of this, it is conceivable for the clamping members to be configured as tabs that are elastically coupled to the inside of the cap. By means of this concrete embodiment, the neck of the container, together with the edge of the container, can be inserted into the cap in the axial direction and the tabs are pressed outwards in the radial direction. Once the edge of the container has passed the tabs, due to this elastic coupling, said tabs can snap back to their original position and engage behind the edge of the container.
- Along the circumference of the inside of the cap, at least two tabs could be arranged at equal distances as clamping members. Four tabs have proven to be especially advantageous in order to tightly and permanently join the closure to the container. The equidistant arrangement of the tabs ensures that the closure is uniformly pressed along the circumference of the container. The clamping members can also serve as a stop when the closure is in the drying position on the container.
- On the inside of the cap, there could be clamping elements that are configured as axially oriented webs that protrude into the interior space. The configuration of clamping elements allows the closure to be guided or centered when it is pressed onto the container. Furthermore, the clamping elements generate a clamping effect by means of which the cap—when it is in the drying position—is pressed against the edge of the container.
- The cap could have a tamper-proof closure that is detachably coupled to the cap in order to free a puncture site for an injection syringe. The tamper-proof closure indicates to the user that the container is intact. Only once the tamper-proof closure has been torn open is the puncture site accessible for an injection syringe. The puncture site can be protected against impurities by the tamper-proof closure.
- The cap could have a support element for pretensioning a grip section of the tamper-proof closure. This concrete embodiment makes it possible to easily grasp the grip section with one's thumbnail and to pull off the tamper-proof closure.
- In light of this, it is conceivable for the cap to have first cap openings that go through the outer circumference of the cap. The first cap openings allow the mold-removal of the caps that have been made by injection molding. Furthermore, a first cap opening can serve to receive the grip section of the tamper-proof closure. With this concrete embodiment, the grip section that opens into the first cap opening can be grasped by a user very easily.
- The cap could have second cap openings that go through the lid of the cap. These cap openings serve to facilitate the mold-removal of the cap made by means of injection molding.
- The first and second cap openings, however, serve not only to facilitate the mold-removal of the cap after the injection molding, but also to allow the flow of steam or sterilizing agent during the sterilization of the closure and/or to allow gaseous components to escape from the container when the closure is in the drying position on the container.
- In light of this, it is conceivable for the cap to be made of plastic. A plastic can be used so that the cap can be made in one member by means of injection molding. In light of this, it is concretely conceivable for the cap to be made of polypropylene or HDPE. These materials have proven to be very temperature-stable. This high temperature stability is necessary in order to withstand sterilization by heat or steam. Furthermore, the use of a plastic makes it possible to replace the caps made of aluminum that are known from state of the art. In a conventional sterilization procedure, the plastic used has to withstand a temperature of 121° C. [249.8° F.] for at least 20 minutes. Moreover, the plastic used has to be able to withstand at least 24 hours at a very low temperature of −50° C. [−58° F.]. The same requirements apply to the material of which the stopper is made.
- A container could have a closure according to one or more of the preceding claims. Such a container can be manufactured very cost-effectively while complying with all of the sterility requirements.
- Additional objectives, features, advantages and application possibilities of the present invention ensue from the following description of embodiments making reference to the drawing. In this context, all of the described or depicted features constitute the subject matter of the invention either on their own or in any desired combination, irrespective of their compilation in individual claims or the claim to which they relate.
- The figures show the following:
- FIG. 1—an exploded view of the closure (with the stopper and the cap) and of the container according to the first embodiment;
- FIG. 2—the stopper (top) inserted into the cap and the container from
FIG. 1 ; - FIG. 3—the container and the cap from
FIG. 2 in the drying position, in which the cap has been placed partially onto the container; - FIG. 4—the cap from
FIG. 3 placed onto the container in the closed position; -
FIG. 5 a—the container and the closure fromFIG. 1 in a cross section along a first sectional, line; -
FIG. 5 b—the container and the closure fromFIG. 1 in a cross section along a second sectional line; -
FIG. 6 a—the container and the closure fromFIG. 2 in a cross section along a first sectional line; -
FIG. 6 b—the container and the closure fromFIG. 2 in a cross section along a second sectional line; -
FIG. 7 a—the container and the closure fromFIG. 3 in a cross section along a first sectional line, with the opened passage in the drying position; -
FIG. 7 b—the container and the closure fromFIG. 3 in a cross section along a second sectional line, with the opened passage in the drying position; -
FIG. 8 a—the container and the closure fromFIG. 4 in a cross section along a first sectional line, in the closed position; -
FIG. 8 b—the container and the closure fromFIG. 4 in a cross section along a second sectional line, in the closed position; -
FIG. 9 a—a view of the cap from below; -
FIG. 9 b—a side view of the cap fromFIG. 9 a; -
FIG. 9 c—a view of the cap fromFIG. 9 a from above; - FIG. 10—an exploded view of a second embodiment, with a different stopper that has a longer sealing section and a cutout formed therein;
- FIG. 11—a cross section of the closure and of the container from
FIG. 10 ; - FIG. 12—the closure and the container from
FIG. 11 , with the stopper inserted into the cap; - FIG. 13—the closure and the container from
FIG. 11 in the drying position, with the cap partially in place (passage open); - FIG. 14—the closure and the container from
FIG. 13 in the closed position. -
FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of the closure with the stopper and the cap as well as the container according to a first embodiment.FIG. 1 shows acontainer 1 which can be configured, for example, in the form of a bottle and be made of glass or plastic. Thecontainer 1 has a constrictedneck 2 that is followed by awidened edge 3. Thecontainer 1 has anopening 4 that is surrounded by theedge 3. Above thecontainer edge 3, there is astopper 10 that is to be inserted into thecontainer opening 4. Thestopper 10 is made, for instance, of rubber. Thestopper 10 has asealing section 11 and anupper section 12 that is wider than the sealingsection 11. Thestopper 10 or itssealing section 11 is configured so as to be essentially cylindrical. The sealingsection 11 of thestopper 10 can have an encircling sealing bead to make contact with thecontainer 1. Thecap 20 has holdingmembers 22 that protrude into theinterior space 29 of thecap 20. Thecap 20 also hasfirst cap openings 26 that go through the outer circumference of thecap 20. Thecap 20 also hassecond cap openings 27 that go through the lid of thecap 20. - The
cap 20 has a tamper-proof closure 24 having agrip section 24 a that protrudes into afirst cap opening 26. -
FIG. 2 shows thestopper 10 inserted into thecap 20 and the container fromFIG. 1 . Thecap 20 can be transported along with the insertedstopper 10 to thecontainer 1. -
FIG. 3 shows thecontainer 1 and thecap 20 fromFIG. 2 in the drying position in which thecap 20 has been placed partially onto thecontainer 1. In this drying position, the closure is placed onto thecontainer 1 in such a way that a passage (described in greater detail below) connects the interior of the container to the atmosphere. Nevertheless, thecontainer 1 here is largely protected against the penetration of impurities. The substances that had been previously introduced into thecontainer 1 can be dried in the drying position. The substances can be dried, for instance, through the modality of freeze-drying by applying negative pressure and temperatures below the freezing point. The invention is particularly well-suited for drugs, for example, injectable substances, that can be introduced into thecontainer 1. -
FIG. 4 shows thecap 20 fromFIG. 3 placed onto thecontainer 1 in the closed position. After the drying of the substances, the closure can be brought into the closed position in which thestopper 10 seals thecontainer 1. Thecap 20 of the closure has a tearable tamper-proof closure 24 that frees a puncture site. For purposes of withdrawing the contents from thecontainer 1, an injection syringe can pierce thestopper 10 and the contents, optionally following the preceding admixture of a solvent such as, for example, water, can be withdrawn. -
FIG. 5 a shows thecontainer 1 and the closure fromFIG. 1 in a cross section along a first sectional line.FIG. 5 b shows thecontainer 1 and the closure fromFIG. 1 in a cross section along a second sectional line. The closure for thecontainer 1 comprises thecap 20, whereby thecap 20 forms aninterior space 29 into which thestopper 10 can be inserted in the axial direction in order to seal thecontainer 1. Thecap 20 has holdingmembers 22 that serve to hold thestopper 10 and they protrude into theinterior space 29. The holdingmembers 22 can latch thestopper 10 in such a manner that the latter is affixed in a prescribed position in the axial direction. - The holding
members 22 are configured as tabs that are elastically coupled to the inside 29 a of thecap 20. The tabs protrude radially inwards. Four tabs are arranged as holdingmembers 22 at equal distances along the circumference of the inside 29 a of thecap 20. - The
cap 20 hasspacers 23 that protrude into theinterior space 29 and that cooperate with the holdingmembers 22 during the axial fixation of thestopper 10. Thespacers 23 are configured in the form of nubs and they protrude into theinterior space 29 in the axial direction from the inside 29 a of thecap 20. Thecap 20 can be latched to thestopper 10 that has asealing section 11 and anupper section 12 that is wider than the sealingsection 11. Theupper section 12 can be positioned between the holdingmembers 22 and thespacers 23, whereby the holdingmembers 22 engage behind theupper section 12 and whereby the sealingsection 11 protrudes axially. On the inside 29 a of thecap 20, there are clampingmembers 21 that engage behind thecontainer edge 3 so as to latch. The clampingmembers 21 are configured as tabs that are elastically coupled to the inside 29 a of thecap 20. Four tabs are arranged as holdingmembers 22 at equal distances along the circumference of the inside 29 a of thecap 20. - On the inside 29 a of the
cap 20, there are clampingelements 28 that are configured as axially oriented webs that protrude into theinterior space 29. - The
cap 20 has a tamper-proof closure 24 that is detachably coupled to thecap 20 in order to free apuncture site 25 for an injection syringe. - The
cap 20 has a support element 30 (seeFIG. 9 b) for pretensioning thegrip section 24 a of the tamper-proof closure 24. - The
cap 20 hasfirst cap openings 26 that go through the outer circumference of thecap 20. Thegrip section 24 a of the tamper-proof closure 24 protrudes into a first cap opening 26 (seeFIG. 3 ). - The
cap 20 hassecond cap openings 27 that go through the lid of thecap 20. Thefirst cap openings 26 andsecond cap openings 27 allow agents to flow through thecap 20 during sterilization or freeze-drying procedures. - The
cap 20 is made of a plastic. In particular, it can have a wall thickness W between 0.2 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 0.5 mm and 2 mm. -
FIG. 6 a shows thecontainer 1 and the closure fromFIG. 2 in a cross section along a first sectional line.FIG. 6 b shows thecontainer 1 and the closure fromFIG. 2 in a cross section along a second sectional line. Thecap 20 is latched to thestopper 10 that has asealing section 11 and anupper section 12 that is wider than the sealingsection 11. Here, theupper section 12 lies between the holding members and thespacers 23, whereby the holdingmembers 22 engage behind theupper section 12 and whereby the sealingsection 11 protrudes into thecontainer 1 in the axial direction. Thestopper 10 is configured so as to be essentially cylindrical and it has a concave indentation that allows the sealingsection 11 to compress slightly in the radial direction during insertion into theneck 2 of thecontainer 1. As a result of the fact that thestopper 10 is latched to thecap 20, these two members can be sterilized together. Thefirst cap openings 26 and thesecond cap openings 27 permit steam or sterilizing agent to flow out of the interior of the container through thecap 20 and past thestopper 10. In this process, steam or sterilizing agent can flow around thestopper 10. - In the holding position shown in
FIGS. 6 a and 6 b, the holdingmembers 22 latch thestopper 10 in such a manner that the latter is affixed in a prescribed position in the axial direction. Even though thestopper 10 can be turned in thecap 20, it can no longer be moved up or down, except for a small amount of play. Thespacers 23 prevent thestopper 10 from moving downwards. -
FIG. 7 a shows thecontainer 1 and the closure fromFIG. 3 in a cross section along a first sectional line, with an openedpassage 13 in the drying position.FIG. 7 b shows the container and the closure fromFIG. 3 in a cross section along a second sectional line, with the openedpassage 13 in the drying position. InFIGS. 7 a and 7 b, the closure is placed onto thecontainer 1 in such a way that apassage 13 connects the interior of the container to the atmosphere. Thepassage 13 is ring-shaped and is formed by a gap created between thestopper 10 and thecontainer 1. In this drying position, thecontainer 1 is largely protected against the penetration of impurities. The substances that had been previously introduced into thecontainer 1 can be dried in this drying position. In the drying position, the holdingmembers 22 latch to thestopper 10 in such a way that the latter is affixed in a prescribed position in the axial direction. Moreover, the clampingmembers 21 form a stop for contact against the container, thus facilitating the positioning of thestopper 10. -
FIG. 8 a shows thecontainer 1 and the closure fromFIG. 4 in a cross section along a first sectional line, in the closed position.FIG. 8 b shows thecontainer 1 and the closure fromFIG. 4 in a cross section along a second sectional line, in the closed position. In the closed position, thestopper 10 seals thecontainer 1. In the closed position, thecontainer edge 3 presses the holdingmembers 22 radially outwards, so that these free thestopper 10. Theupper section 12 of thestopper 10 now lies on thecontainer edge 3 so as to create a seal. The sealingsection 11 is inserted into thecontainer 1 and seals it by making contact against thecontainer 1. - On the inside 29 a of the
cap 20, there are clampingmembers 21 that engage behind anedge 3 of the container so as to latch. The clampingmembers 21 are configured as tabs that are elastically coupled to the inside 29 a of thecap 20. Four tabs are arranged as holdingmembers 22 at equal distances along the circumference of the inside 29 a of thecap 20 and they engage behind thecontainer edge 3 so as to latch. - The
cap 20 of the closure has a tearable tamper-proof closure 24 that frees apuncture site 25. For purposes of withdrawing the contents from thecontainer 1, an injection syringe can pierce through thestopper 10 and the contents, optionally following the preceding admixture of a solvent such as, for example, water, can be withdrawn. -
FIG. 9 a shows a view of thecap 20 from below. Here, one can see thespacers 23 configured in the form of nubs and arranged in a circle. It can also be seen that the holdingmembers 22 and the clampingmembers 21 lie above each other and are offset with respect to each other on the inside 29 a of thecap 20. - The holding
members 22 as well as the clampingmembers 21 are configured as tabs that protrude radially inwards and that are elastically coupled to the inside 29 a of thecap 20.FIG. 9 a also shows the tamper-proof closure 24 that is fitted with agrip section 24 a. -
FIG. 9 b shows a side view of thecap 20 fromFIG. 9 a.FIG. 9 b shows that thecap 20 has asupport element 30 for pretensioning thegrip section 24 a of the tamper-proof closure 24. Thegrip section 24 a of the tamper-proof closure 24 protrudes into afirst cap opening 26. In this manner, thegrip section 24 a of the tamper-proof closure 24 can be grasped by a user very easily. In its mounted state, thesupport element 30 lies on thestopper 10 in such a way that it presses thegrip section 24 slightly upwards in the axial direction. This makes it easier for the user to grasp thegrip section 24 a. -
FIG. 9 c shows a view of thecap 20 fromFIG. 9 a from above. This view shows thesecond cap openings 27 that are arranged along the circumference. Thefirst cap openings 26 in the outer circumference of thecap 20 can also be seen. Finally,FIG. 9 c shows the tamper-proof closure 24 with itsgrip section 24 a. The tamper-proof closure 24 has the shape of the Greek letter omega as seen from above. -
FIG. 10 shows an exploded view of a second embodiment, with astopper 10′ that has a longer sealingsection 11′ and acutout 14 formed therein. Thestopper 10′ has asealing section 11′ whose outer circumference has a slit-shapedcutout 14 in order to create a passage shown inFIG. 13 . -
FIG. 11 shows a cross section of the closure and of the container fromFIG. 10 . The cross section according toFIG. 11 shows that thestopper 10′ has asealing section 11′ whose outer circumference there has a slit-shapedcutout 14 in order to create the passage. The slit-shapedcutout 14 extends approximately from the center of the sealingsection 11′ all the way to its end facing away from theupper section 12′. Thestopper 10′ has asealing section 11′ with a concave indentation that allows the sealingsection 11′ to compress in the radial direction during insertion into thecontainer 1. Thestopper 10′ has asealing section 11′ and anupper section 12′ that is wider than the sealingsection 11′. -
FIG. 12 shows the closure and thecontainer 1 fromFIG. 11 , with thestopper 10′ inserted into thecap 20. - The holding
members 22 latch thestopper 10′ in such a way that it is affixed in a prescribed position in the axial direction. Thecap 20 hasspacers 23 that protrude into theinterior space 29 and cooperate with the holdingmembers 22 during the axial fixation of thestopper 10′. In this context, theupper section 12′ lies between the holdingmembers 22 and thespacers 23, whereby the holdingmembers 22 engage behind theupper section 12′, and whereby the sealingsection 11′ protrudes axially in the direction of thecontainer 1. -
FIG. 13 shows the closure and the container fromFIG. 12 in the drying position, with thecap 20 partially in place. Even though the sealingsection 11′ protrudes into thecontainer 1, apassage 13 is formed in the outer circumference of the sealingsection 11′ by the slit-shapedcutout 14. Thispassage 13 connects the interior of the container to the atmosphere. - Finally,
FIG. 14 shows the closure and thecontainer 1 fromFIG. 13 in the closed position. Theupper section 12′ of thestopper 10′ rests on thecontainer edge 3 so as to seal it. The sealingsection 11′ is accommodated in thecontainer 1 and rests against the container interior so as to seal it. When the closure is pressed onto thecontainer 1, thecontainer edge 3 presses the holdingmembers 22 radially outwards. The holdingmembers 22 are now no longer resting on thestopper 10′. Thestopper 10′ is positioned between thecontainer edge 3 and thespacers 23 on thecap 20. The clampingmembers 21 on thecap 20 engage behind thecontainer edge 3. - Finally, express mention is hereby made of the fact that the same reference numerals are used in
FIGS. 1 to 14 to designate the same components of thecontainer 1 and of the closure. Reference is hereby made to the applicable parts of the description.
Claims (19)
1. A closure for a container, comprising:
a cap, said cap forming an interior space into which a stopper can be inserted in an axial direction in order to seal the container, said cap having holding members that protrude into the interior space, the holding members latching the stopper in such a way that the stopper is affixed in a prescribed position in the axial direction.
2. The closure according to claim 1 , wherein the holding members include tabs elastically coupled to the inside of the cap.
3. The closure according to claim 1 , wherein the holding members include at least two tabs at equal distances along the circumference of the inside of the cap.
4. The closure according to claim 1 , wherein the cap includes at least one spacer that protrudes into the interior space and cooperates with the holding members during the axial fixation of the stopper.
5. The closure according to claim 4 , wherein the at least one spacer includes nubs protruding from an inside of the cap into the interior space in the axial direction.
6. The closure according to claim 1 , wherein the cap is latched to the stopper, the stopper having a sealing section and an upper section wider than the sealing section.
7. The closure according to claim 6 , wherein the upper section is located between the holding members and the spacers, the holding members engaging behind the upper section and the sealing section protruding axially.
8. The closure according to claim 1 , wherein the stopper has a sealing section whose outer circumference has a slit-shaped cutout creating a passage.
9. The closure according to claim 1 , wherein on an inside of the cap the clamping members engage behind an edge of the container so as to latch.
10. The closure according to claim 9 , wherein the clamping members are tabs elastically coupled to the inside of the cap.
11. The closure according to claim 9 , wherein along a circumference of the inside of the cap, at least two tabs are arranged at equal distances as the clamping members.
12. The closure according to claim 1 , wherein on an inside of the cap the clamping elements are configured as axially oriented webs protruding into the interior space.
13. The closure according to claim 1 , wherein the cap includes a tamper-proof closure detachably coupled to the cap in order to free a puncture site for an injection syringe.
14. The closure according to claim 13 , wherein the cap has a support element for pretensioning a grip section of the tamper-proof closure.
15. The closure according to claim 1 , wherein the cap has first cap openings that pass through an outer circumference of the cap.
16. The closure according to claim 15 , wherein a grip section of the closure protrudes into one of the first cap openings, the closure being tamper-proof.
17. The closure according to claim 1 , wherein the cap has second cap openings that pass through the lid of the cap.
18. The closure according to claim 1 , wherein the cap is made of plastic.
19. A container closed by a closure comprising: a container and the closure according to claim 1 .
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/586,589 US20100089862A1 (en) | 2008-10-10 | 2009-09-24 | Closure to be pressed and latched onto a container |
Applications Claiming Priority (6)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
DE102008050931 | 2008-10-10 | ||
DE102008050931.0 | 2008-10-10 | ||
DE102008051351.2 | 2008-10-15 | ||
DE102008051351A DE102008051351A1 (en) | 2008-10-10 | 2008-10-15 | Closure for pressing and locking with a container |
US19662908P | 2008-10-20 | 2008-10-20 | |
US12/586,589 US20100089862A1 (en) | 2008-10-10 | 2009-09-24 | Closure to be pressed and latched onto a container |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20100089862A1 true US20100089862A1 (en) | 2010-04-15 |
Family
ID=41514961
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/586,589 Abandoned US20100089862A1 (en) | 2008-10-10 | 2009-09-24 | Closure to be pressed and latched onto a container |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20100089862A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2174884B1 (en) |
AT (1) | ATE510780T1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE102008051351A1 (en) |
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US20120160850A1 (en) * | 2009-09-15 | 2012-06-28 | A. Raymond Et Cie | Locking cap for a vessel having a neck |
US20120248057A1 (en) * | 2011-04-04 | 2012-10-04 | Genesis Packaging Technologies | Cap systems and methods for sealing pharmaceutical vials |
US20130055681A1 (en) * | 2010-05-10 | 2013-03-07 | Datwyler Pharma Packaging International Nv | Closure for a container and method for carrying out a freeze-drying process |
US20130213924A1 (en) * | 2010-09-09 | 2013-08-22 | Datwyler Pharma Packaging International Nv | Closure stopper for pharmaceutical applications |
WO2013132050A1 (en) * | 2012-03-09 | 2013-09-12 | Biocorp Recherche Et Developpement | Sealing device and container equipped with such a device |
US20130240476A1 (en) * | 2010-11-24 | 2013-09-19 | West Pharmaceutical Services Deautschland GmbH & Co. KG | Device for stopping a container, container provided with such a device, and method for closing a batch of such containers |
US20140076896A1 (en) * | 2011-06-06 | 2014-03-20 | Biocorp Recherche Et Developpement | Stopping device and container comprising such a device |
US8684204B2 (en) | 2009-10-01 | 2014-04-01 | A. Raymond Et Cie | Locking cover for a vessel having a neck, including a cap having attachment tabs |
WO2015029580A1 (en) * | 2013-09-02 | 2015-03-05 | 大成化工株式会社 | Cap for vial |
WO2016044751A1 (en) * | 2014-09-18 | 2016-03-24 | HCT Group Holdings Limited | Quick release base and lid assembly container |
US20160184182A1 (en) * | 2013-07-03 | 2016-06-30 | Si02 Medical Products, Inc. | Parenteral vial cap |
US9382044B2 (en) | 2012-02-13 | 2016-07-05 | A. Raymond Et Cie | Locking device for a cap |
US20160200461A1 (en) * | 2013-08-16 | 2016-07-14 | Vanrx Pharmasystems Inc. | Method, device and system for filling pharmaceutical containers |
CN106659634A (en) * | 2014-07-22 | 2017-05-10 | Aap生物材料有限公司 | Closure for pharmaceutical containers and method for sealing a bottle |
US20180290800A1 (en) * | 2015-04-20 | 2018-10-11 | Greif International Holding Bv | Closure caps |
US10195112B2 (en) | 2012-11-26 | 2019-02-05 | Becton Dickinson France | Adaptor for multidose medical container |
US10219983B2 (en) | 2016-08-03 | 2019-03-05 | Genesis Packaging Technologies | Cap systems with piercing member for pharmaceutical vials |
US10723497B2 (en) | 2014-11-03 | 2020-07-28 | Vanrx Pharmasystems Inc. | Apparatus and method for monitoring and controlling the filling of a container with a pharmaceutical fluid in an aseptic environment |
US10773068B2 (en) * | 2015-07-30 | 2020-09-15 | Carefusion 303, Inc. | Tamper-resistant cap |
US20220241149A1 (en) * | 2019-07-02 | 2022-08-04 | Taisei Kako Co., Ltd. | Cap and capped vial |
US11529288B2 (en) * | 2016-06-15 | 2022-12-20 | Ttp Plc. | Integrated cap and seal system |
US11738915B2 (en) * | 2019-07-09 | 2023-08-29 | A. Raymond Et Cie | Locking top for vessel having a neck |
US11850210B2 (en) | 2021-05-06 | 2023-12-26 | Kaisha Packaging Private Limited | Tamper evident plastic closure for vials for storing substances for medical or pharmaceutical applications and use thereof |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CA208550S (en) | 2021-06-11 | 2023-07-10 | Kaisha Packaging Private Ltd | Tamper evident plastic closure for vials for medical purposes |
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US20120160850A1 (en) * | 2009-09-15 | 2012-06-28 | A. Raymond Et Cie | Locking cap for a vessel having a neck |
US8684225B2 (en) * | 2009-09-15 | 2014-04-01 | A. Raymond Et Cie | Locking cap for a vessel having a neck |
US8684204B2 (en) | 2009-10-01 | 2014-04-01 | A. Raymond Et Cie | Locking cover for a vessel having a neck, including a cap having attachment tabs |
US9540154B2 (en) * | 2010-05-10 | 2017-01-10 | Datwyler Pharma Packaging International Nv | Closure for a container and method for carrying out a freeze-drying process |
US20130055681A1 (en) * | 2010-05-10 | 2013-03-07 | Datwyler Pharma Packaging International Nv | Closure for a container and method for carrying out a freeze-drying process |
US20130213924A1 (en) * | 2010-09-09 | 2013-08-22 | Datwyler Pharma Packaging International Nv | Closure stopper for pharmaceutical applications |
US10273059B2 (en) * | 2010-09-09 | 2019-04-30 | Datwyler Pharma Packaging International Nv | Closure stopper for pharmaceutical applications |
US20130240476A1 (en) * | 2010-11-24 | 2013-09-19 | West Pharmaceutical Services Deautschland GmbH & Co. KG | Device for stopping a container, container provided with such a device, and method for closing a batch of such containers |
US8950609B2 (en) * | 2010-11-24 | 2015-02-10 | West Pharmaceutical Services Deutschland Gmbh & Co. Kg | Device for stopping a container, container provided with such a device, and method for closing a batch of such containers |
US8544665B2 (en) * | 2011-04-04 | 2013-10-01 | Genesis Packaging Technologies | Cap systems and methods for sealing pharmaceutical vials |
US20120248057A1 (en) * | 2011-04-04 | 2012-10-04 | Genesis Packaging Technologies | Cap systems and methods for sealing pharmaceutical vials |
US8726619B2 (en) | 2011-04-04 | 2014-05-20 | Genesis Packaging Technologies | Methods for sealing pharmaceutical vials |
US20140076896A1 (en) * | 2011-06-06 | 2014-03-20 | Biocorp Recherche Et Developpement | Stopping device and container comprising such a device |
CN103717505A (en) * | 2011-06-06 | 2014-04-09 | 生物研究与发展公司 | Stopping device and container comprising such a device |
US8893907B2 (en) * | 2011-06-06 | 2014-11-25 | Biocorp Recherche Et Developpement | Stopping device and container comprising such a device |
US9382044B2 (en) | 2012-02-13 | 2016-07-05 | A. Raymond Et Cie | Locking device for a cap |
FR2987825A1 (en) * | 2012-03-09 | 2013-09-13 | Biocorp Rech Et Dev | CLOSURE DEVICE AND CONTAINER EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A DEVICE |
JP2015512835A (en) * | 2012-03-09 | 2015-04-30 | ビオコルプ ルシェルシェ エ デブロプマン | SEALING DEVICE AND CONTAINER PROVIDED WITH THIS DEVICE |
WO2013132050A1 (en) * | 2012-03-09 | 2013-09-12 | Biocorp Recherche Et Developpement | Sealing device and container equipped with such a device |
CN104364165A (en) * | 2012-03-09 | 2015-02-18 | 生物研究与发展公司 | Sealing device and container equipped with such a device |
US9731877B2 (en) | 2012-03-09 | 2017-08-15 | Biocorp Recherche Et Developpement | Sealing device and container equipped with such a device |
AU2013229441B2 (en) * | 2012-03-09 | 2017-03-30 | Biocorp Production | Sealing device and container equipped with such a device |
RU2619099C2 (en) * | 2012-03-09 | 2017-05-11 | Биокорп Продюксьон | Sealing device and container equipped with such device |
US10195112B2 (en) | 2012-11-26 | 2019-02-05 | Becton Dickinson France | Adaptor for multidose medical container |
US10327986B2 (en) | 2013-07-03 | 2019-06-25 | Sio2 Medical Products, Inc. | Parenteral vial cap |
US20160184182A1 (en) * | 2013-07-03 | 2016-06-30 | Si02 Medical Products, Inc. | Parenteral vial cap |
US11518555B2 (en) | 2013-08-16 | 2022-12-06 | Vanrx Pharmasystems Inc. | Method, device and system for filling pharmaceutical containers |
US10781003B2 (en) | 2013-08-16 | 2020-09-22 | Vanrx Pharmasystems Inc. | Method, system, and apparatus for pharmaceutical container filing and lyophilizing |
US11186390B2 (en) | 2013-08-16 | 2021-11-30 | V Anrx Pharmasystems Inc. | Method for filling pharmaceutical containers |
US10781002B2 (en) * | 2013-08-16 | 2020-09-22 | Vanrx Pharmasystems Inc. | Method, device and system for filling pharmaceutical containers |
US20160200461A1 (en) * | 2013-08-16 | 2016-07-14 | Vanrx Pharmasystems Inc. | Method, device and system for filling pharmaceutical containers |
US9555941B2 (en) | 2013-09-02 | 2017-01-31 | Taisei Kako Co., Ltd. | Cap for vial |
JPWO2015029580A1 (en) * | 2013-09-02 | 2017-03-02 | 大成化工株式会社 | Cap for vial |
US9555940B2 (en) | 2013-09-02 | 2017-01-31 | Taisei Kako Co., Ltd. | Cap for vial |
WO2015029580A1 (en) * | 2013-09-02 | 2015-03-05 | 大成化工株式会社 | Cap for vial |
US20170349335A1 (en) * | 2014-07-22 | 2017-12-07 | Aap Biomaterials Gmbh | Closure for pharmaceutical containers and method for sealing a bottle |
CN106659634A (en) * | 2014-07-22 | 2017-05-10 | Aap生物材料有限公司 | Closure for pharmaceutical containers and method for sealing a bottle |
US10293987B2 (en) * | 2014-07-22 | 2019-05-21 | Osartis Gmbh | Closure for pharmaceutical containers and method for sealing a bottle |
US9926114B2 (en) | 2014-09-18 | 2018-03-27 | HCT Group Holdings Limited | Quick release base and lid assembly container |
WO2016044751A1 (en) * | 2014-09-18 | 2016-03-24 | HCT Group Holdings Limited | Quick release base and lid assembly container |
US10723497B2 (en) | 2014-11-03 | 2020-07-28 | Vanrx Pharmasystems Inc. | Apparatus and method for monitoring and controlling the filling of a container with a pharmaceutical fluid in an aseptic environment |
US10703547B2 (en) * | 2015-04-20 | 2020-07-07 | Greif International Holding Bv | Closure caps |
US20180290800A1 (en) * | 2015-04-20 | 2018-10-11 | Greif International Holding Bv | Closure caps |
US10773068B2 (en) * | 2015-07-30 | 2020-09-15 | Carefusion 303, Inc. | Tamper-resistant cap |
US11819652B2 (en) | 2015-07-30 | 2023-11-21 | Carefusion 303, Inc. | Tamper-resistant cap |
US11529288B2 (en) * | 2016-06-15 | 2022-12-20 | Ttp Plc. | Integrated cap and seal system |
US11039983B2 (en) | 2016-08-03 | 2021-06-22 | Genesis Packaging Technologies | Cap systems with piercing member for pharmaceutical vials |
US10219983B2 (en) | 2016-08-03 | 2019-03-05 | Genesis Packaging Technologies | Cap systems with piercing member for pharmaceutical vials |
US20220241149A1 (en) * | 2019-07-02 | 2022-08-04 | Taisei Kako Co., Ltd. | Cap and capped vial |
US11738915B2 (en) * | 2019-07-09 | 2023-08-29 | A. Raymond Et Cie | Locking top for vessel having a neck |
US11850210B2 (en) | 2021-05-06 | 2023-12-26 | Kaisha Packaging Private Limited | Tamper evident plastic closure for vials for storing substances for medical or pharmaceutical applications and use thereof |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP2174884B1 (en) | 2011-05-25 |
DE102008051351A1 (en) | 2010-04-15 |
EP2174884A1 (en) | 2010-04-14 |
ATE510780T1 (en) | 2011-06-15 |
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Legal Events
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: FRIEDRICH SANNER GMBH & CO. KG,GERMANY Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SCHMITT, PETER;REEL/FRAME:023612/0964 Effective date: 20091105 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |