WO2004011347A2

WO2004011347A2 - Liquid container closure assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2004011347A2
Application number: PCT/GB2003/003241
Authority: WO
Inventors: David William Thomson
Original assignee: Daniel Montgomery & Son Limited
Priority date: 2002-07-31
Filing date: 2003-07-18
Publication date: 2004-02-05
Also published as: WO2004011347A3; AU2003254489A1; EA200500278A1; CN1671604A; CN1323908C; EA006807B1; MXPA05000956A; GB0220554D0

Abstract

There is disclosed an improved closure assembly (5) adapted to be applied to a mouth and neck portion of a container (e.g. for liquid) such as a neck of a bottle. Known container closure assemblies suffer from a number of problems, e.g. simplicity of manufacture and provision of tamper evidence. Accordingly, the closure assembly (5) (or tamper-evident device) of the present invention comprises: a first body part (10) ; a tamper-evidence member or lock means (15) ; and a container closure member (20), wherein prior to initial opening the tamper-evident member or lock means (15)is in a first position such that the first body 15 part (10) and the container closure member (20)are disposed in a first relation to one another, and initial opening of the closure assembly (5) causes the tamper-evident member or lock means (15) to move a second position. Upon reclosure the lock means (15) causes the first body part (10) and the container closure member (20) to be disposed in a second (spaced) relation to one another, thereby evidencing opening and reclosure.

Description

LIQUID CONTAINER CLOSURE ASSEMBLY

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to a closure assembly adapted to be applied to a mouth of a container, e.g. for liquid, such as a neck of a bottle. The invention particularly, thought not exclusively, relates to a tamper- evident snap-on fitment or tamper-evident non-refillable snap-on fitment .

BACKGROUND TO INVENTION

For various reasons, it may be desirable to ensure that a used container, such as a bottle intended to contain a liquid such as a valuable liquid, e.g. alcoholic beverages such as spirits, is not re-filled with a replacement quantity of another liquid, the characteristics and quality of which may differ from the original contents.

Attempts to provide closures which make such re-filling difficult are not always proof against determined re- filling efforts.

Also, while it is considered advantageous to provide a tamper-indicating means which provides evidence that the bottle and its original contents are intact, if the bottle is resealable with a substitute cap or closure, there may be little to indicate to a purchaser that the bottle has been tampered with and/or refilled and that the contents may be inferior to the original contents.

It has, therefore, been found desirable to provide a closure which cannot be removed without an extreme level of effort or breakage being caused to the bottle. Such an arrangement is shown, for example, in GB Patent No. 2 274 837 also by the present Applicant, selected merely by way of illustration.

Whilst it is very important that an original closure

P1₃01SPC cannot be removed without visible damage or breakage being caused either to the closure and/or to the bottle, it has been found that a closure that cannot readily be removed will become the target of attempts to re-fill the container by overcoming the feature provided in the closure intended to hinder or prevent such refilling. Therefore, in addition to providing devices to prevent re-filling of bottles, there is a need to provide such devices with further tamper- indicating or "tamper-evident" features which, while not acting in any preventive role, give a clear irremovable and/or irreversible indication that a bottle has been opened since being originally filled with the genuine contents. Such clear indicators have been somewhat lacking in previous closure designs. Furthermore, there is a need for simple designs of closure assemblies allowing easy and reliable manufacture, assembly and fitting to bottle necks. Such simplicity has been somewhat lacking in previous closure designs.

Accordingly it is an object of at least one embodiment of at least one aspect of the present invention to obviate or at least mitigate at least one of the aforementioned problems/disadvantages in the prior art.

It is also an object of at least one embodiment of at least one aspect of the present invention to provide an improved closure assembly which does not have any parts which are frangible and/or removed upon initial opening and which are liable to be reattached by counterfeiters or the like in a way suggesting that the closure assembly had not previously been opened.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

One or more objects of the present invention are addressed by the general solution of providing a container closure assembly having a first tamper-evident or tamper

P13016PC evidence member which irreversibly moves from a first position to a second position upon initial opening. Such action may cause a first body part and a container closure member, which prior to initial opening are disposed in a first disposition relative to one another, to be disposed in a second disposition relative to one another upon reclosure so as to evidence opening and reclosure of the closure assembly.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a closure assembly (or tamper-evident device) adapted to be applied to a mouth and neck portion of a container for liquid, the assembly comprising: a first body part, a tamper-evidence member or lock means, and a container closure member, wherein prior to initial opening the tamper-evidence member or lock means is in a first position such that the first body part and the container closure member are disposed in a first relation to one another, and initial opening of the closure assembly causes the tamper-evidence member or lock means to move to a second position.

The Applicant has named the device of the present invention "ALUSNAP" (Trade Mark) closure assembly, tamper- evident device, snap-on fitment or non-refillable device. Preferably upon reclosure of the closure assembly the lock means causes the first body part and the container closure member to be disposed in a second relation to one another .

In this way a clear indication is given to a person that the closure assembly has been opened and reclosed.

The lock means therefore provides a first visual tamper- evidence means .

Preferably the lock means comprises a lock member retained within the first body part . The lock member may

P13016PC comprise a lock body portion having a first flanged end. Preferably also the lock body portion has a second flanged end.

Preferably the first flanged end and an inner side of the container closure member are provided with co-acting engagement means. By such arrangement in an initially unopened disposition the container closure member and lock member are held together, and an initial opening action of the container closure member causes the lock member to move from said first position to said second position.

The co-acting engagement means may comprise a resiliently flexible male member provided on the inner side of the container closure member and a female member provided at the first end of the lock member. Preferably once the lock member is in said second position, further opening action (whether initial or reopening) causes the male member to release from the female member.

Preferably the first body part provides a tubular body having open first and second ends, the first end having a plurality of circumferentially spaced teeth.

Preferably the assembly includes a pouring outlet device including a pouring lip, the tubular body being provided within the pouring outlet device. Preferably said teeth are resiliently flexible.

Preferably in said initially unopened position, said flanged first end of said lock member is within said tubular body, and an initial opening operation of said container closure member causes said flanged first end of said lock member to move passed said teeth and out of said first end of said tubular member._. The teeth therefore act as non-return means or "barbs" by which said flanged first end of said lock member is prevented from re-entering said tubular member.

P1301SPC In said second position, the second flanged end of the lock body portion may abut a flange provide on the second end of the tubular body.

Preferably the lock body portion carries biasing means, which tend to bias the lock member towards said first position.

Preferably said second flanged end of said lock body portion substantially seals or closes a mouth of a container when in said first position and said closure assembly is applied to a container.

The bias means may comprise one or more sprung arms extending from said lock body portion towards said second end thereof .

The closure assembly may comprise a snap-on fitment. The closure assembly may include means to prevent refilling.

The teeth may each extend from the tubular body and comprise an angled portion and a substantially longitudinally extending end portion. The first body part, lock member and container closure member may be made from suitable plastics materials.

In an embodiment the first body part may comprise a sleeve adapted to lie substantially concentrically with respect to the mouth and provided with means for fixing the sleeve on the container, the closure assembly preferably further comprising a first outer sleeve being a substantially tight fit with the sleeve but rotatable with respect thereto, and a second outer sleeve separate from the first outer sleeve and associated with the container closure member, and wherein there are provided means for spacing apart initially adjacent portions of the first and second outer sleeves upon reclosure of the assembly after an initial opening of the container.

The spacing means provide a second visual tamper-

P13016PC evidence means .

Preferably the first outer sleeve has open first and second ends and the second outer sleeve has a first closed end and second open end. Preferably the container closure member includes a circumferential groove, which may further provide a circumferential lip portion located below and adjacent to the circumferential groove.

The initially adjacent portions may comprise adjacent respective circumferential edges of the first and second outer sleeves.

The first and second circumferential edges may prior to initial opening be located in the circumferential groove and may be adjacent one another. Preferably, during an initial container opening operation, the first circumferential edge expands or rides over the circumferential lip portion and then recoils or retracts, preferably to substantially its original circumferential position so as to become positioned circumferentially behind the circumferential lip portion. Alternatively or additionally during an initial container opening operation, the circumferential lip portion contracts or rides under the first circumferential edge and then recoils or expands preferably to substantially its original circumferential position so as to become positioned circumferentially ahead of the first circumferential edge. This action positions the circumferential lip longitudinally between the first and second circumferential edges in an obstructive manner such that when the container is reclosed by re-applying the closure member, the first and second outer sleeves are spaced apart at least by the circumferential lip portion located therebetween.

The first and optionally second tamper evidence means

P13016PC provide that after reclosure the first and second circumferential edges are no longer adjacent but spaced, thus revealing a void or gap between the first and second circumferential edges. This visual indicator evidences that the closure assembly (and container) has been opened and reclosed.

The first circumferential edge of the first outer sleeve may provide a circumferential first beaded portion on the first outer sleeve, and in a same manner the second circumferential edge of the second outer sleeve may provide a circumferential second beaded portion on the second outer sleeve .

The first and second sleeves may comprise any suitable material, and preferably the material comprises a metal, or metallic based material.

Preferably the metal or metallic based material substantially comprises aluminium or an alloy thereof, and particularly rolled aluminium.

Advantageously, aluminium provides a good medium for application of printing dyes, inks, paints or the like such that messages, logos, images, names, and/or other information may be carried by the first and/or second outer sleeves. A message may, for example, comprise arrows indicating a direction of rotation for opening of the closure assembly.

The container closure member may be a cap which desirably includes a threaded portion which allows a rotational movement (normally anti-clockwise) of the cap during a container opening operation. The closure assembly may include a non-refillable device providing pouring outlet device adapted to be secured to the mouth of a container for liquid. The container closure member may be a cap adapted to close an outlet of the pouring outlet device, and the first outer

P13016PC sleeve may be adapted to receive at least part of the pouring outlet device. The outlet may be substantially annular and the cap may carry on an inner facing end an annular seal removably receivable within the annular outlet.

Preferably the second outer sleeve member is adapted to receive at least part of the cap.

The cap may be generally received in a tight interference fit to the second outer sleeve, but may be optionally rotatable with respect to the second outer sleeve upon application of sufficient force.

Desirably the pouring outlet device is made in one piece with the sleeve, e.g. by injection moulding.

Preferably the non-refillable device further comprises a valve seat body which is at least partially receivable within at least part of the neck portion of the container, and wherein the valve seat body is at least partially surrounded by the sleeve.

Preferably at least one moveable valve member is provided within the valve seat body.

Preferably there are provided means for retaining the first outer sleeve in longitudinal relation to the sleeve, e.g. an end of the first outer sleeve at least partially formed over an end of the sleeve. Preferably the first and second circumferential edges of the first and second sleeves are before an initial opening of the closure assembly located within the circumferential groove provided on the closure member, and are substantially adjacent. This positioning ensures that when the container is initially opened by relative twisting of the closure member and sleeve, the second circumferential edge of the second outer sleeve remains within the groove provided on the closure member, and the first circumferential edge of the first outer sleeve

P13016PC progressively resiliently may be caused to move circumferentially outward and out of the groove provided on the closure member as the closure member is removed away from the pouring outlet device and the first portion. Alternatively or additionally the circumferential lip portion may progressively be caused to move circumferentially inward. On removing the contact between the cap and the first circumferential edge of the first outer sleeve, the first circumferential edge retracts to a substantially reduced circumference, (e.g. its original circumference) , such that the resulting circumference is less than that of a portion of the closure member which is located below the groove. This portion is preferably provided as the circumferential lip on- the closure member. When the closure member is re-applied to the pouring outlet device, a stop position is reached when the circumferential lip portion of the closure member rests, sits or abuts upon the first circumferential edge of the first outer sleeve, thus preventing the closure member being returned to its original unopened starting position.

A longitudinal gap or void therefore remains between the first and second outer sleeves thus exposing a circumferential part of the closure member, which part includes at least part of the circumferential lip which was originally encased or enclosed within the first circumferential edge and an original closure member seating surface of the pouring device.

Advantageously the exposed circumferential part of the closure member may be distinctly coloured and/or printed with information, promotional messages or the like.

The fixing means may comprise first means for fixing the sleeve on the container so as to restrain rotational movement of the sleeve with respect to the neck portion of the container.

P1301SPC The fixing means may also comprise second means for fixing the sleeve on the container so as to restrict longitudinal movement of the sleeve with respect to the mouth of the container. Preferably the second means for fixing the sleeve are in the form of at least one projecting means projecting inwardly of said sleeve, said at least one projecting means being moveable radially of the sleeve in a stiffly resilient manner and being engagable with an outer lip portion of said container.

Preferably the first outer sleeve fits with the sleeve by means of an interference fit between an outer surface of the sleeve and an inner surface of the first outer sleeve.

Preferably the cap has thereon a threaded portion, which engages with a corresponding threaded portion on the first body part or pouring outlet.

It is desired that the first and second outer sleeves are aesthetically pleasing, and as such, it is preferred that the first and second outer sleeves comprise metal foil.

It is preferred that there are provided means for assembling the sleeve and valve seat body together prior to application to the container.

Preferably the projecting means are provided on an inner wall of the sleeve to resiliently engage the neck portion of the container.

Preferably the sleeve contains one or more circumferential apertures around the sleeve, which are defined between axially extending portions of the sleeve. The/each projecting means may be provided adjacent to an edge of one of the apertures. It is preferred that each projecting means is positioned on a lower circumferential edge of one of the apertures .

Typically the pouring outlet device comprises a

P13016PC circumferentially extending pouring lip.

The sleeve may further be provided with a tubular body position inwardly and preferably concentrically of the pouring outlet device and wherein the tubular body is attached to an inner surface of the sleeve via a plurality of webs .

Preferably said first end of said tubular body is positioned to be substantially flush with the circumferentially extending pouring lip. Conveniently said tubular body is provided with a circumferentially extending brim which is positioned on the lower outer edge of said tubular body. Conveniently webs connect an inner surface of the sleeve to the brim and to the tubular body. Conveniently each web is configured to provide a bracket upon which the brim fixedly sits.

The sleeve is further conveniently provided with a plurality of ribs or ridges formed on an inner surface thereof, preferably arranged circumferentially around the sleeve and having their long axes arranged substantially axially to said sleeve.

These ribs or ridges, in use, may co-act with raised pips, ridges or the like, on an outer surface of the container (e.g. a "glass finish" of the bottle) to seek to prevent undesired rotational movement of the sleeve.

The valve seat body may comprise a tubular portion, a free end portion of which provides a valve seat adapted to be contacted in a sealing manner by a valve member captive in said tubular portion. The valve seat is preferably a circumferentially extending flange, which extends radially inwardly of the tubular portion. In one embodiment such a valve seat is positioned at one end of the tubular portion, and that end of the tubular portion is closed except for a circular

P13016PC aperture .

It will be understood that the tubular portion is adapted to be received substantially within the mouth portion of the container. The tubular portion may further comprise at least one engagement means on an outer surface thereof to engage an inner surface of the container in an interference fashion. The engagement means are preferably radially extending circumferential ribs. At or near to an end of the tubular portion distal from the valve seat is provided a substantially concentric further tubular portion of greater diameter than the tubular portion, and an inner surface of the further tubular portion is connected to an outer surface of the tubular portion by one or more further webs.

It is preferred that a first end of the further tubular portion is connected to an outer surface of the tubular portion by an annular flange.

Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention, such construction provides a circumferential trough defined between the outer surface of the tubular portion and the inner surface of the further tubular portion with the flange forming a trough floor. The trough is divided into smaller arc-shaped troughs by the further webs. Such a trough helps prevent insertion of objects into the container through the closure assembly.

Preferably a second end of the further tubular portion is arranged substantially flush with an end of the tubular portion distal from the valve seat. In use the tubular portion forms an inner sleeve of the assembled closure assembly.

Advantageously, an outer surface of the further tubular portion interference interacts with an inner surface of the sleeve.

P13016PC Conveniently, a radially extending circumferential rim is located on an outer edge of an end of the further tubular portion, which in an assembled closure assembly is seated against a lower surface of a radially extending circumferential rim provided on an inner surface of the sleeve .

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a container including a closure assembly according to the first aspect of the present invention. The container is preferably a container for liquid.

The container may be a bottle, e.g. a glass bottle, and may be adapted for containment of liquid, such as alcoholic drinks or beverages, e.g. spirits such as vodka, whisky, brandy, gin or the like. According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a combination of a container and a closure assembly according to the first aspect of the present invention.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided an alcoholic drinks product comprising an alcoholic substance packaged in the combination according to the third aspect of the present invention.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of manufacturing a closure assembly according to the first aspect of the present invention comprising the steps of:

(a) providing an outer sleeve member;

(b) providing a pouring outlet device and a sleeve adapted to be secured to a mouth and neck portion of a container for liquid and a container closure member releasably securable to the pouring outlet device and/or sleeve;

(c) disposing the pouring outlet device, sleeve and container closure member at least partly within the

P1301SPC outer sleeve member;

(d) forming the outer sleeve member into a first outer sleeve and a separate second outer sleeve. This method is particularly advantageous in mass production.

Preferably step (d) is carried out using a first cutting tool such as a blade of a machine tool. Preferably step (d) comprises: forming a cut around a portion of the outer sleeve member so as to form adjacent first and second circumferential edges on the first and second outer sleeves.

Advantageously, the first and second edges are formed in a groove carried on the container closure member.

Advantageously the first and second circumferential edges are of reduced diameter compared to at least adjacent portions of the first or second outer sleeve, respectively.

Preferably after step (c) the method also comprises the step of :

(e) forming an end of the first outer sleeve over an end of the sleeve so as to retain the first outer sleeve and the sleeve in longitudinal relation.

Preferably step (e) is carried out using a second cutting tool such as a further blade of a machine tool.

Steps (d) and (e) may be undertaken substantially simultaneously.

The closure assembly so formed may comprise a unitary assembly for snap-on application to a mouth and neck portion of a container.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of bottling comprising:

(a) providing a closure assembly manufactured according to the first aspect of the invention;

(b) providing a bottle;

(c) filling the bottle with a liquid;

P13016PC (d) closing the bottle by applying the closure assembly to a mouth and neck of the bottle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS An embodiment of the present invention will now be described by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are:

Figure 1(a) a cross-sectional side view a closure assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention prior to initial opening;

Figure 1 (b) a perspective view from a side and first end of a first body part and lock means of the closure assembly of Figure 1(a) prior to initial opening;

Figure 1(c) an exploded perspective view of the closure assembly of Figure 1(a) ;

Figure 2(a) a cross-sectional side view of the closure assembly of Figure 1(a) after initial opening with a container closure member removed;

Figure 2 (b) a perspective view from a side and a first end of the first body part and lock means of the closure assembly of Figure 1(a) after initial opening;

Figure 3 a cross-sectional side view of the closure assembly of Figure 1(a) after reclosure;

Figure 4 a cross-sectional side view a closure

P13016PC assembly falling outwith the scope of the present invention during an initial step of manufacture;

Figure 5 a cross-sectional side view of the closure assembly of Figure 4 during an intermediate step of manufacture;

Figure 6 a cross-sectional side view of the closure assembly of Figure 4 after manufacture and prior to initial opening;

Figure 7 an exploded perspective view from a side and above of the closure assembly of Figure 6 in combination with a bottle having a neck and mouth; and

Figure 8 a cross-sectioned side view of the closure assembly of Figure 6 applied to the bottle of Figure 7 prior to initial opening.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Referring to Figures 1(a) to 3, there is shown a closure assembly (or tamper-evident device) , generally designated 5, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The closure assembly 5 is adapted to be applied to a mouth and neck portion of a container for liquid (not shown) . The closure assembly 5 comprises : a first body part 10; a first tamper-evidence member or lock or lockable means 15; and a container closure member 20, wherein prior to initial opening the lock means 15 is in a first position such that the first body part 10 and the container closure member 20 are disposed in a first relation to one another, and initial opening of the closure assembly 5 causes the

P13016PC lock means 15 to move to a second (fixed) position.

The Applicant has named the closure assembly of the present invention the "ALUSNAP" (Trade Mark) closure assembly, tamper-evident device, snap-on fitment or non- refillable device.

Upon reclosure of the closure assembly 5 the lock means 15 causes the first body part 10 and the container closure member 20 to be disposed in a second relation to one another. In this way a clear indication is given to a person that the closure assembly 5 has been opened and reclosed. The lock means 15 therefore provides a first visual tamper-evidence means 16 (see Figure 3) .

The lock means 15 comprises a lock member 25. The lock member 25 comprises a lock body portion 30 having a first flanged end 35. Also the lock body portion 30 has a second flanged end 40.

The first flanged end 35 and an inner side of the container closure member 20 are provided with co-acting engagement means. By such arrangement in an initially unopened disposition the container closure member 20 and lock member 25 are held together, and an initial opening action of the container closure member 20 causes the lock member 25 to move from said first to said second position.

The co-acting engagement means comprise a resiliently flexible male member 45 provided on the inner side of the container closure member 20 and a female member 50 provided at the first end 35 of the lock member 25. Once the lock member 25 is in said second position, further opening action (whether initial or reopening) causes the male member 45 to release from the female member 50.

The closure assembly 5 provides a tubular body 55 having open first and second ends 60,65, the first end 60 having a plurality of circumferentially spaced teeth 70.

The assembly 5 includes a pouring outlet device 75

P13016PC including a pouring lip 80, the tubular body 55 being provided within the pouring outlet device 75.

The teeth 70 are resiliently flexible - that is to say, have "memory", i.e. when flexed, return to their original position.

In said initially unopened position, said flanged first end 35 of said lock member 25 is within said tubular body 55, and an initial opening operation of said container closure member 20 causes said flanged first end 35 of said lock member 25 to move passed said teeth 70 by elastic deformation of the teeth 70, and out of said first end 35 of said tubular member 55. The teeth 70 therefore act as non-return means or "barbs" by which said flanged first end 35 of said lock member 30 is prevented from re-entering said tubular member 55.

As can be seen from Figure 2 (a) , in said second position, the second flanged end 40 of the lock body portion 30 abuts a flange 85 provided on the second end 65 of the tubular body 55. The lock body portion 30 carries biasing means 90, which tend to bias the lock member 25 towards said first position. As can be seen from Figure 1(a), said second flanged end 40 of said lock body portion 30 substantially seals or closes a mouth of a container (not shown) when in said first position and said closure assembly 5 is applied to a container.

In this embodiment the bias means 90 may comprise one or more sprung arms 105 extending from said lock body portion 30 towards said second end 40 thereof. Thus, if a counterfeiter seeks to remove or removes at least part of the lock member 25 by cutting off flanged end 40, the lock member 25 returns to its initial position and the container is sealed against outflow and/or refilling.

The closure assembly 5 may comprise a snap-on fitment,

P13016PC and includes means to prevent refilling as hereinafter described.

The teeth 70 may each extend from the tubular body 55 and comprise an angled portion 110 and a substantially longitudinally extending end portion 115.

It will be appreciated that the first body part 10, lock means 15 and container closure member 20 can be made from suitable plastics materials.

From the foregoing, one will appreciate that the closure assembly 5 provides:

(a) first visual tamper-evident means 160;

(b) means, i.e. biased lock member 25, to prevent outflow or refilling if or when the first tamper- evident member is at least partially removed. In a modification to the closure assembly 5, there are provided second tamper-evident means substantially similar to the tamper-evident means of the closure assembly 205 of Figures 4 to 8, as hereinafter described, the closure assembly 205 per se falling outwith the scope of the present invention. Further, the closure assembly 5 may be manufactured in a similar manner to the closure assembly 205, as hereinafter described. The closure assembly 5 shares many common parts with the closure assembly 205, like parts being identified by like numerals, but suffixed " ' " . Indeed in the modification, the closure assembly 5 can have all of the parts of the closure assembly 205, but additionally is provided with the lock means 15.

Thus referring now to Figures 6, 7 and 8, there is shown a closure assembly (or tamper-evident device) , generally designated 205', falling outwith the scope of the present invention, but incorporating a tamper-evident means which may be included in the closure assembly 5 according to an embodiment of the invention as a second tamper- evident means .

P13016PC The closure assembly 5 ' is adapted to be applied to a mouth and neck portion 210', 211' of a container or bottle 215' for liquid. The closure assembly 5' comprises a sleeve 220' adapted to lie substantially concentrically with respect to mouth 210' and provided with means for fixing the sleeve 220' on the container 215'. The closure assembly 5' further comprises a first outer sleeve 225' being a substantially tight interference fit with the sleeve 220' but rotatable with respect thereto upon application of sufficient rotational force. The closure assembly 5' also comprises a second outer sleeve 230' separate from the first outer sleeve and associated with a container closure member 235'. Prior to initial opening, between the first and second outer sleeves 225 ',230' there is provided a circumferentially extending cut line 231' formed as will hereinafter be described. The cut line 231' extends 360O around the - closure assembly 5 and separates the first and second outer sleeve 225 ',230'. The cut line 231' may be unperceivable or at least almost unperceivable by the naked eye. There are also provided means for spacing apart initially adjacent portions of the first and second outer sleeves 225', 230' upon reclosure of the closure assembly 5' after an initial opening of the container 215, as will hereinafter be described in greater detail, which spacing means comprise tamper-evident means.

The first outer sleeve 225 ' has open first and second ends 240 ',245', and the second outer sleeve has a first closed ends 250' and a second open end 255'.

The cap 235' includes a circumferential groove 260', and further provides a circumferential lip portion 265' located below and adjacent to the circumferential groove 260' .

The initially adjacent portions comprise initially adjacent respective circumferential edges 270', 275' of the

P13016PC first and second outer sleeves 225 ',230'. The first and second circumferential edges 270 ',275' are prior to initial opening located in the circumferential groove and are substantially adjacent one another. During an initial container opening operation, the first circumferential edge 270' expands or rides over the circumferential lip portion 265' and then recoils or retracts to substantially its original circumferential position so as to become positioned radially behind the circumferential lip portion 265'. Alternatively or additionally during an initial container opening operation, the circumferential lip portion 265 ' contracts or rides under the first circumferential edge 270' and then recoils or expands to substantially its original circumferential position so . as to become positioned radially ahead of the first circumferential edge 270'. This action or these actions position the circumferential lip portion 265' longitudinally between the first and second circumferential edges 270 ',275' in an obstructive manner such that when the container 215' is reclosed by re-applying the closure member 235', the first and second outer sleeves 225 ',230' are spaced apart by the circumferential lip portion 265' located therebetween.

By .this arrangement after reclosure the first and second circumferential edges 270 ',275' are no longer adjacent but spaced thus revealing a void or gap substantially comprising groove 260' and lip portion 265' between the first and second circumferential edges 270', 275'. This visual indicator evidences that the closure assembly 5' (and container 215') has been opened and reclosed and therefore provides tamper-evident means. Similar means may be provided in the closure assembly 5 of Figure 1.

The first circumferential edge 270' of the first outer

P13016PC sleeve 225' can in a modification provide a first circumferential beaded portion on the first outer sleeve 225' adjacent first circumferential edge 270', and in a same manner the second circumferential edge 275' of the second outer sleeve 230' can provide a second circumferential beaded portion on the second outer sleeve 230' adjacent second circumferential edge 275'.

The first and second sleeves 225 ',230' are made from any suitable material, e.g. a metal or metallic based material. In this case the metal substantially comprises aluminium or an alloy thereof, e.g. rolled aluminium. Aluminium provides a good medium for application of printing dyes, inks, paints or the like such that messages, logos, images, names, and/or other information can be carried by the first and second outer sleeves 225 ',230' .

The cap 235' includes an internally threaded portion 285' which co-acts with an external thread 286' on sleeve 220' and allows for a rotational movement (normally anticlockwise) of the cap 235' during a container opening operation, and a contra-rotational movement (normally clockwise) of the cap 325' during a container closing operation.

The closure assembly 5 ' includes a non-refillable device 290' providing a pouring outlet device 295' adapted to be secured to the mouth 10 of the container 215' for liquid. The container closure member 235' is adapted to close an outlet 300' of the pouring outlet device 295', the first outer sleeve 225' optionally being located to receive at least part of the pouring outlet device 295'. The outlet 300' is substantially annular and the cap 235' carries on an inner facing end 305' an annular seal 310 removably receivable within the annular outlet 300'. The annular outlet 300' defines a circumferential pouring lip 301' .

P13016PC The second outer sleeve 330' is adapted to receive the cap 235'. The cap 235' is generally received in a tight ■interference fit to the second outer sleeve 230', but may be rotatable with respect to the second outer sleeve 235' upon application of sufficient force. For example, upon reclosure of the closure assembly 5, when circumferential lip portion 265' abuts first circumferential edge 270' further reclosure movement (e.g. clockwise turning of second outer sleeve 225') can cause closure member 235' to remain stationery and outer sleeve 225 ' to rotate relative thereto. Further, the second circumferential edge 275' maintains the second outer sleeve 230' in longitudinal relation with the closure member 235'.

The pouring outlet device 295' is, in this embodiment, made in one piece with the sleeve 220', e.g. by injection moulding.

The non-refillable device 290' further comprises a valve seat body 315' which is at least partially receivable within at least part of the neck portion 211' of the container 215', the valve seat body 315' being at least partially surrounded by the sleeve 220'. First and second moveable valve members 335', 336' are provided within the valve seat body 315'. The second valve 336' comprises a spherical body, while the first valve member 335' comprises a finned tubular body having a downwardly directed closed frustonical lower end and an open upper end which receives the second valve member 336' .

A non-return valve is formed from the valve seat body 315' and valve members 335 ',336' which is closed in a normally upright position of the bottle 215', and which while allowing liquids to flow from the bottle 215' in a pouring operation, restricts in-flow of liquid into the bottle 215' by rudimentary unauthorised filling operations or even more sophisticated methods, which may involve

P13016PC attempted insertion of objects, tubes or the like into the bottle mouth 210'.

There are also provided on the closure assembly 5,5' means for retaining the first outer sleeve 225' in longitudinal relation to the sleeve 220', e.g. an end 226' of the first outer sleeve 225' formed (bent) over an end 220' of the sleeve 220'.

The first and second circumferential edges 270 ',275' of the first and second outer sleeves 270 ',275' are before an initial opening of the closure assembly 5 ' located within the circumferential groove 260' provided on the cap 235', and are substantially adjacent. This positioning ensures that when the container 215' is initially opened by relative twisting of the cap 235' and sleeve 220', the second circumferential edge 275' of the second outer sleeve 230' remains within the groove 260' provided on the cap 235', and the first circumferential edge 270' of the first outer sleeve 225' progressively resiliently can be caused to move circumferentially outward and out of the groove 260' provided on the cap 235' as the cap 235' is removed away from the pouring outlet device 295' and the first outer sleeve 225' portion. Alternatively or additionally as mentioned above, the circumferential lip portion 265' may progressively resiliently move circumferentially inward. On removing the contact between the cap 235' and the first circumferential edge 270' of the first outer sleeve 225', the first circumferential edge 270' retracts to a substantially reduced circumference (e.g. its original circumference) , such that the resulting circumference is less than that of a cap portion which is located below the groove 260', e.g. circumferential lip portion 265'.

When the cap 235' is re-applied to the pouring outlet device 295', a stop position is reached when the circumferential lip portion 265' of the cap 235' rests,

P1301SPC sits or abuts upon the first circumferential edge 270' of the first outer sleeve 225', thus preventing the cap 235 being returned to its original starting (unopened) position. A longitudinal gap or void (not shown) therefore remains between the first and second outer sleeves 225', 230' thus exposing a circumferential part of the cap 235', which includes at least part of the circumferential lip portion 265' which was originally encased or enclosed within the first outer sleeve 225'. A further void (not shown) also exists between a lower edge of the cap 235' and an original cap 235' seating surface 320' of the pouring outlet device 295'.

Advantageously the exposed circumferential part of the cap 235' may be distinctly coloured and/or printed with information, promotional messages or the like.

There are provided means for fixing the closure assembly 5,5' on the bottle 215'. The fixing means comprise first means 325' for fixing the sleeve 220' on the container 215' so as to restrain rotational movement of the sleeve 220' with respect to the neck portion 211' of the container 215'.

The fixing means also comprise second means 330' for fixing the sleeve 220' on the container 215' so as to restrict longitudinal movement of the sleeve 220' with respect to the mouth 210' of the container 215'. The second means 330' for fixing the sleeve 220' are in the form of at least one projecting means 330' inwardly of said sleeve 220', said at least one projecting means 330' being moveable radially of the sleeve 230' in a stiffly resilient manner and being engagable with an outer lip portion 212' of said container 215'.

The first outer sleeve 225' fits with the sleeve 220' by means of an interference fit between an outer surface 340' of the sleeve 220' and an inner surface 345' of the

P1301SPC first outer sleeve 225'. The cap 235' has therein threaded portion 285', which engages with a corresponding threaded portion 286' (350') on the pouring outlet device 295'.

It is desired that the first and second outer sleeves 225 ',230' are aesthetically pleasing, and as such, the first and second outer sleeves 225 ',230' comprise metal foil .

There are provided means 346' for assembling the sleeve 220' and valve seat body 315' together prior to application to the container 215', such as co-acting ribs and grooves carried by each.

The projecting means 330' are provided on an inner wall 215' of the sleeve 220' to resiliently engage the neck portion 211' and outer lip portion 212' of the container 215' .

The sleeve 220' contains one or more circumferential apertures 315' around the sleeve 220', which are defined between axially extending portions of the sleeve 220'.

The/each projecting means 330' are provided adjacent to an edge of one of the apertures 315'.

As can be seen in this closure assembly, each projecting means 330' is positioned on a lower circumferential edge 360' of one of the apertures 315'.

The sleeve 220' further carries a tubular body 365' (comprising the tubular body 55 of Figure 1) positioned inwardly and substantially concentrically of the pouring outlet device 295'. The tubular body 365' is attached to an inner portion 370' of the sleeve 220' or pouring outlet device 295' via a plurality of webs 375'. In closure assembly 5', a bore 380' of the tubular body 365' is closed by an outer facing wall 385' as the closure assembly 5' is not provided with a lock means. The closed wall 385' of said tubular body 365' is positioned to be substantially flush with the circumferential pouring lip 301'.

P13016PC The tubular body 365' is provided with a circumferentially extending brim 390' which is positioned on the lower outer edge 395' of said tubular body 365' . Conveniently the webs 375' connect an inner tubular 400' of the sleeve 220' to the brim 390' and to the tubular body 365'. Each web 375' is configured to provide a bracket upon which the brim 390' fixedly sits.

The sleeve 220' is further conveniently provided with a plurality of ribs (or ridges) 405' formed on an inner surface 410' thereof, in this embodiment arranged circumferentially around the sleeve 220' and having their long axes arranged substantially axially to said sleeve 220'. These ribs 405', in use, form the first means 325' for fixing against anti-rotation and co-act with raised pips, ridges or the like 213', on an outer surface of the container 215 ' (comprising a so-called "glass finish" of the bottle) to seek to prevent undesired rotational movement of the sleeve 220' .

Some minor rotational play in either a clockwise or anticlockwise direction may occur until a stop position is found by a rib or ribs 405' acting against a ridge or ridges 213'. However, continued application of force will cause the first outer sleeve 235' and/or the second outer sleeve 230' to rotate relative to the sleeve 220' and/or cap 235', respectively.

The valve seat body 315' comprises a tubular portion 410', a free end portion 415' of which provides a valve seat 420' adapted to be contacted in a sealing manner by first valve member 335' captive in the tubular portion 410' . The valve seat 420' comprises a circumferentially extending flange 421', which extends radially inwardly of the tubular portion 410'. In this case the valve seat 420' is positioned at one end of the tubular portion 410', and that end of the tubular portion 410' is closed except for a

P13016PC circular aperture 425'

The tubular portion 410' is adapted to be received substantially within the mouth 210' portion of the container 215'. The tubular portion 410' further comprises at least one engagement means 430' on an outer surface 235' thereof to engage an inner surface 440' of the container 215' in an interference fashion. The engagement means 430' comprise radially extending circumferential ribs.

At or near to an end of the tubular portion 410' distant from the valve seat 420' is provided a substantially concentric further tubular body 445 ' of greater diameter than the tubular portion 410', and an inner surface 446' of the further tubular body 445' is connected to an outer surface 455' of the tubular portion 410' by one or more further webs 460' . Further, a first end 465' of the further tubular body 445' is connected to an outer surface 455' of the tubular portion 410' by an annular flange 475'. Such construction provides a circumferential trough 480' defined between the outer surface 470' of the tubular portion 410' and the inner surface 450' of the further tubular body 475' with the flange 475' forming a trough floor. The trough 480' is divided into smaller arc-shaped troughs 485' by the further webs 460'. Such a trough 480' or troughs 485' help prevent insertion of objects into the container 215' through the closure assembly 5 ' .

A second end 490' of the further tubular body 445' is arranged substantially flush with an end 495' of the tubular portion 410' distant from the valve seat 420'. In use, the tubular portion 410' forms an inner sleeve of the assembled closure assembly 5'.

An outer surface 500' of the further tubular body 445' interference interacts with an inner surface 305 of the sleeve 420'. Conveniently, a radially extending

P13016PC circumferential rim 510' is located on an outer edge 515' of an end of the further tubular body 445 ' , which, in an assembled closure assembly 5 ' is seated against a lower surface of a radially inwardly extending circumferential rim 425' provided on an inner surface of the sleeve 220'. The container 215' is typically a container for liquid. The container 215' is most likely a bottle, e.g. a glass bottle, suitable for containment of liquid, such as alcoholic drinks or beverages, e.g. spirits such as vodka, whisky, brandy, gin or the like.

Typically, the bottle 215' is made from glass or alternatively a plastics material, the first and second outer sleeves 225 ',230' from aluminium, the cap 235' from low density polyethylene, the sleeve 230' and pouring outlet 295 ' from a stiffly resilient plastics material such as polypropylene or polystyrene and which in this case is a polystyrene obtainable under the trade name, STYROLUX, the valve member 235' from crystal polystyrene and the valve seat body 315' from low density polyethylene. Referring now to Figures 4 to 7 , there is illustrated a method of manufacturing the closure assembly 5,5'. The method comprises the steps of :

(a) providing an outer sleeve member 224,224' (Figure 4); (b) providing pouring outlet device 295,295' and sleeve 220,220' adapted to be secured to mouth and/or neck portion 210 ',211' of container 215' for liquid, and container closure member 235,235' releasably securable to the pouring outlet device 295,295' and/or sleeve 220,220' (Figure 4);

(c) disposing the pouring outlet device 295,295', sleeve 220,220' and container closure member 235,235' at least partly within the outer sleeve member 224,224' (Figure 5);

P13016PC (d) forming the outer sleeve member 224' into first outer sleeve 225,225' and separate second outer sleeve 230,230' (Figure 6).

This method is particularly advantageous in mass production. Step (d) is carried out using a first cutting tool such as a blade of a machine tool (not shown) .

Step (d) comprises: forming a cut around a portion of the outer sleeve member 224,224' so as to form the adjacent first and second circumferential edges 270 ',275' on the first and second outer sleeves 225 ',230'. In this way the blade forms cut line 231,231' hereinbefore mentioned.

As can be seen from Figure 4, where provided, the first and second circumferential edges 270 ',275 are formed in circumferential groove 260' carried on the container closure member 235 ' . Also as can be seen, the first and second circumferential edges 270 ',275' are of reduced diameter compared to at least adjacent portions of the first or second outer sleeves 225 ',230' respectively.

After step (c) the method also comprises the step of: (e) forming end 226,226' of the first outer sleeve

225,225' over end 320,320' of the sleeve 220,220' so as to retain the first outer sleeve 225,225' and the sleeve 220,220' in longitudinal relation.

Step (e) is carried out using a second cutting tool such as a further blade (not shown) of the machine tool.

Steps (d) and (e) are beneficially undertaken substantially simultaneously, e.g. for reasons of speed of manufacture.

The closure assembly 5,5' formed by this method comprises a unitary assembly for snap-on application to a mouth and neck portion 210 ',211' of a container 215'.

A method of bottling according to the present invention comprises:

(a) providing closure assembly 5;

(b) providing a bottle;

P1301SPC (c) filling the bottle with a liquid;

(d) closing the bottle by applying the closure assembly 5 to a mouth and neck portion of the bottle. It will be understood that the embodiment of the present invention hereinbefore described is given by way of non-limiting example only, and that modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the outer sleeve member may be applied to various different designs of pouring device adapted to be applied to a variety of containers including bottles .

In a modification, the second outer sleeve and/or the first outer sleeve may include knurred or castellated surfaces to assist in gripping in opening and reopening and/or closing and reclosing of the closure assembly.

It will further appreciated that the present invention provides a particularly desirable one-piece snap-on fitment having functional advantages over the prior art as well as enhanced aesthetic appeal.

Finally, it will be appreciated that in the disclosed embodiment of the closure assembly of the present invention prior to an initial opening, the first and second circumferential edges of the first and second outer sleeves are substantially adjacent one another and may indeed even abut. However, advantageously they are not connected together, e.g. by any frangible or weakened break-line, frangible or weakened links or frangible and/or removable tear ring, but rather are distinct and separate one from the other. It will be understood, however, that in a less preferred implementation one or more frangible links may be provided between the first and second circumferential edges which links break or tear or shear upon initial opening.

P13016PC

Claims

1. A closure assembly adapted to be applied to a mouth and neck portion of a container for liquid, the assembly comprising: a first body part, a tamper-evidence member or lock means, and a container closure member, wherein prior to initial opening the tamper-evidence member or lock means is in a first position such that the first body part and the container closure member are disposed in a first relation to one another, and initial opening of the closure assembly causes the tamper-evidence member or lock means to move to a second position.

2. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein upon reclosure of the closure assembly the lock means causes the first body part and the container closure member to be disposed in a second relation to one another.

3. A closure assembly as claimed in either of claims 1 or 2, wherein the lock means provides a first visual tamper- evidence means .

4. A closure assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the lock means comprises a lock member retained within the first body part, the lock member comprising a lock body portion having a first flanged end and a second flanged end.

5. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 4, wherein the first flanged end and an inner side of the container closure member are provided with co-acting engagement means such that in an initially unopened disposition the

P13016PC container closure member and lock member are held together, and an initial opening action of the container closure member causes the lock member to move in a longitudinal direction from said first position to said second position.

6. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein the co-acting engagement means comprises a resiliently flexible male member provided on the inner side of the container closure member and a female member provided at the first end of the lock member.

7. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 6, wherein, in use, once the lock member is in said second position, further opening action causes the male member to release from the female member.

8. A closure assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the first body part provides a tubular body having open first and second ends, the first end having a plurality of circumferentially spaced teeth.

9. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein the assembly includes a pouring outlet device including a pouring lip, the tubular body being provided within the pouring outlet device.

10. A closure assembly as claimed in either of claims 8 or 9, wherein said teeth are resiliently flexible.

11. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 8 when dependent upon claim 3, wherein in said initially unopened position, said flanged first end of said lock member is within said tubular body, and an initial opening operation of said container closure member causes said flanged first

P13016PC end of said lock member to move passed said teeth and out of said first end of said tubular member.

12. A closure assembly as claimed in either of claims 3 or 11, wherein in said second position, the second flanged end of the lock body portion abuts a flange provide on the second end of the tubular body.

13. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 3 or claims 11 or 12, wherein the lock body portion carries biasing means, which tend to bias the lock member towards said first position.

14. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 3 or any of claims 11 or 13, wherein said second flanged end of said lock body portion substantially seals or closes a mouth of a container when in said first position and said closure assembly is applied to a container.

15. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 13, wherein the bias means comprises one or more sprung arms extending from said lock body portion towards said second end thereof.

16. A closure assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the closure assembly comprises a snap-on fitment.

17. A closure assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the closure assembly includes means to prevent refilling.

18. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein the teeth each extend from the tubular body and comprise an angled portion and a substantially longitudinally extending end portion.

P13016PC

19. A closure assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the first body part, lock member and container closure member are made from at least one plastics materials .

20. A closure assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the first body part comprises a sleeve adapted to lie substantially concentrically with respect to the mouth and provided with means for fixing the sleeve on the container, the closure assembly further comprising a first outer sleeve being a substantially tight fit with the sleeve but rotatable with respect thereto, and a second outer sleeve separate from the first outer sleeve and associated with the container closure member, and wherein there are provided means for spacing apart initially adjacent portions of the first and second outer sleeves upon reclosure of the assembly after an initial opening of the container.

21. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 20, wherein the spacing means provide a second visual tamper-evidence means .

22. A closure assembly as claimed in either of claims 20 or 21, wherein the first outer sleeve has open first and second ends and the second outer sleeve has a first closed end and second open end.

23. A closure assembly as claimed in any of claims 20 to 22, wherein the container closure member includes a circumferential groove and a circumferential lip portion located below and adjacent to the circumferential groove.

P1301SPC

24. A closure assembly as claimed in any of claims 20 to 23, wherein the initially adjacent portions comprises adjacent respective circumferential edges of the first and second outer sleeves .

25. A closure assembly as claimed in clam 24 when dependent upon claim 23, wherein prior to opening the first and second circumferential edges are located in the circumferential groove and are adjacent one another.

26. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 25, wherein during an initial container opening operation, the first circumferential edge expands or rides over the circumferential lip portion and then recoils or retracts, optionally to substantially- its original circumferential position, so as to become positioned circumferentially behind the circumferential lip portion.

27. A closure assembly as claimed in either of claims 25 or 26, wherein during an initial container opening operation, the circumferential lip portion contracts or rides under the first circumferential edge and then recoils or expands, optionally to substantially its original circumferential position, so as to become positioned circumferentially ahead of the first circumferential edge.

28. A closure assembly as claimed in either of claims 26 or 27, wherein upon reclosure the circumferential lip is positioned longitudinally between the first and second circumferential edges in an obstructive manner such that when the container is reclosed by re-applying the closure member, the first and second outer sleeves are spaced apart at least by the circumferential lip portion located therebetween .

P1301SPC

29. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 24 when dependent upon claim 3 or claim 21, wherein the first and/or optionally second tamper-evidence means provide that after reclosure the first and second circumferen ial edges are no longer adjacent but spaced, thus revealing at least one void or gap between the first and second circumferential edges, thus providing a visual indicator evidencing that the closure assembly and container has been opened and reclosed.

30. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 24, wherein the first circumferential edge of the first outer sleeve provides a circumferential first beaded portion on the first outer sleeve, and the second circumferential edge of the second outer sleeve provides a circumferential second beaded portion on the second outer sleeve.

31. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 20 or any of claims 21 to 30 when dependent upon claim 20, wherein the first and second sleeves comprise a metal or metallic based material .

32. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 31, wherein the metal or metallic based material substantially comprises aluminium or an alloy thereof such as rolled aluminium.

33. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 32, wherein printing dyes, inks or paints in the form of messages, logos, images, names, and/or other information carried by the first and/or second outer sleeves.

34. A closure assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the container closure member is a cap which includes a threaded portion which allows a rotational

P1301SPC movement of the cap during a container opening operation.

35. A closure assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the closure assembly includes a non-refillable device adapted to be secured to the mouth of a container for liquid.

36. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 20 when dependent upon claim 9, wherein the container closure member is a cap adapted to close an outlet of the pouring outlet device, and the first outer sleeve is adapted to receive at least part of the pouring outlet device, the outlet being substantially annular and the cap carrying on an inner facing end an annular seal removably receivable within the annular outlet.

37. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 34 when dependent upon claim 20, wherein the second outer sleeve member is adapted to receive at least part of the cap.

38. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 37, wherein the cap is generally received in a tight interference fit to the second outer sleeve but is optionally rotatable with respect to the second outer sleeve upon application of sufficient force.

39. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 20 when dependent upon claim 9, wherein the pouring outlet device is made in one piece with the sleeve.

40. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 35 when dependent upon claim 20, wherein the non-refillable device further comprises a valve seat body which is at least partially receivable within at least part of the neck

P13016PC portion of the container, and wherein the valve seat body is at least partially surrounded by the sleeve.

41. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 40, wherein at least one moveable valve member is provided within the valve seat body.

42. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 20, wherein there are provided means for retaining the first outer sleeve in longitudinal relation to the sleeve, comprising an end of the first outer sleeve at least partially formed over an end of the sleeve.

43. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 25, wherein the first and second circumferential edges of the first and second sleeves are before an initial opening of the closure assembly located within the circumferential groove provided on the closure member, and are substantially adjacent, such that when the container is initially opened by relative twisting of the closure member and sleeve, the second circumferential edge of the second outer sleeve remains within the groove provided on the closure member, and the first circumferential edge of the first outer sleeve progressively resiliently is caused to move circumferentially outward and out of the groove provided on the closure member as the closure member is removed away from the pouring outlet device and the first portion, and/or the circumferential lip portion is progressively caused to move circumferentially inward, on removing the contact between the closure member and the first circumferential edge of the first outer sleeve, the first circumferential edge retracts to a substantially reduced circumference, such that the resulting circumference is less than that of a portion of the closure member which is

P13016PC located below the groove.

44. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 43, wherein the portion of the closure member comprises the circumferential lip on the closure member.

45. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 44 when dependent upon claim 9, wherein when the closure member is re-applied to the pouring outlet device, a stop position is reached when the circumferential lip portion of the closure member rests, sits or abuts upon the first circumferential edge of the first outer sleeve, thus preventing the closure member being returned to its original unopened starting position, a longitudinal gap or void remaining between the first and second outer sleeves thus exposing a circumferential part of the closure member, which part includes at least part of the circumferential lip which was originally encased or enclosed within the first circumferential edge and an original cap seating surface of the pouring device.

46. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 45, wherein the exposed circumferential part of the closure member is distinctly coloured and/or printed with information and/or promotional messages.

47. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 20, wherein the fixing means comprise first means for fixing the sleeve on the container so as to restrain rotational movement of the sleeve with respect to the neck portion of the container.

48. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 47, wherein the fixing means also comprise second means for fixing the sleeve on the container so as to restrict longitudinal

P1301SPC movement of the sleeve with respect to the mouth of the container.

49. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 48, wherein the second means for fixing the sleeve are in the form of at least one projecting means projecting inwardly of said sleeve, said at least one projecting means being moveable radially of the sleeve in a stiffly resilient manner and being engagable with an outer lip portion of said container.

50. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 20, wherein the first outer sleeve fits with the sleeve by means of an interference fit between an outer surface of the sleeve and an inner surface of the first outer sleeve.

51. A closure assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the closure member has thereon a threaded portion which engages with a corresponding threaded portion on the first body part.

52. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 20, wherein the first and second outer sleeves are aesthetically pleasing, the first and second outer sleeves comprising metal foil .

53. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 40 when dependent upon claim 20, wherein there are provided means for assembling the sleeve and valve seat body together prior to application to the container.

54. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 49, wherein the projecting means are provided on an inner wall of the sleeve to resiliently engage the neck portion of the container.

P13016PC

55. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 54, wherein the sleeve provides one or more circumferential apertures around the sleeve, which are defined between axially extending portions of the sleeve, the/each projecting means being provided adjacent to a lower circumferential edge of one of the apertures.

56. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 9, wherein the pouring outlet device comprises a circumferentially extending pouring lip.

57. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 20 when dependent upon claim 9, wherein the sleeve is provided with a tubular body positioned inwardly and concentrically of the pouring outlet device, and wherein the tubular body is attached to an inner surface of the sleeve via a plurality of webs .

58. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 57, wherein a first end of said tubular body is positioned to be substantially flush with the circumferentially extending pouring lip.

59. A closure assembly as claimed in either of claims 57 or 58, wherein said tubular body is provided with a circumferentially extending brim which is positioned on the lower outer edge of said tubular body, the webs connecting an inner surface of the sleeve to the brim and to the tubular body.

60. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 20, wherein the sleeve is provided with a plurality of ribs or ridges formed on an inner ^' surface thereof, arranged

P13016PC circumferentially around the sleeve and having their long axes arranged substantially axially to said sleeve, the ribs or ridges, in use, co-acting with raised pips or ridges or the like, on an outer surface of the container to seek to prevent undesired rotational movement of the sleeve.

61. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 40, wherein the valve seat body comprises a tubular portion, a free end portion of which provides a valve seat adapted to be contacted in a sealing manner by a valve member captive in said tubular portion.

62. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 61, wherein the valve seat is a circumferentially extending flange which extends radially inwardly of the tubular portion, the valve seat being positioned at one end of the tubular portion, and that end of the tubular portion being closed except for a circular aperture.

63. A closure assembly as claimed in either of claims 61 or 62, wherein ^• the tubular portion is adapted to be received substantially within the mouth portion of the container, the tubular portion further comprising at least one engagement means on an outer surface thereof to engage an inner surface of the container in an interference fashion, the engagement means comprising radially extending circumferential ribs.

64. A closure assembly as claimed in any of claims 61 to 63, wherein at or near to an end of the tubular portion distal from the valve seat there is provided a substantially concentric further tubular portion of greater diameter than the tubular portion, an inner surface of the

P13016PC further tubular portion being connected to an outer surface of the tubular portion by one or more further webs.

65. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 64, wherein a first end of the further tubular portion is connected to an outer surface of the tubular portion by an annular flange.

66. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 65, wherein there is provided a circumferential trough defined between the outer surface of the tubular portion and the inner surface of the further tubular portion with the flange forming a trough floor, the trough being divided into smaller arc-shaped troughs by the further webs.

67. A closure assembly as claimed in any of claims 64 to 66, wherein a second end of the further tubular portion is arranged substantially flush with an end of the tubular portion distal from the valve seat.

68. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 57, wherein in use, the tubular portion forms an inner sleeve of the assembled closure assembly.

69. A closure assembly as claimed in any of claims 64 to 68, wherein an outer surface of the further tubular portion interference interacts with an inner surface of the sleeve.

70. A closure assembly as claimed in any of claims 64f to 69, wherein a radially extending circumferential rim is located on an outer edge of an end of the further tubular portion, which in an assembled closure assembly is seated against a lower surface of a radially extending circumferential rim provided on an inner surface of the sleeve .

P1301SPC

71. A container including a closure assembly according to any of claims 1 to 70.

72. A container as claims in claim 71, wherein the container is a container for liquid.

73. A closure assembly as claimed in either of claims 71 or 72, wherein the container is a bottle, such as a glass bottle adapted for containment of liquid, such as alcoholic drinks or beverages selected from spirits comprising vodka, whisky, brandy or gin.

74. A combination of a container and a closure assembly according to any of claims 1 to 70.

75. An alcoholic drinks product comprising an alcoholic substance packaged in the combination according to claim 74.

76. A method of manufacturing a closure assembly according to any of claims 1 to 70 comprising the steps of: (a) providing an outer sleeve member;

(d) providing a pouring outlet device and a sleeve adapted to be secured to a mouth and neck portion of a container for liquid and a container closure member releasably securable to the pouring outlet device and/or sleeve;

(e) disposing the pouring outlet device, sleeve and container closure member at least partly within the outer sleeve member;

(d) forming the outer sleeve member into a first outer sleeve and a separate second outer sleeve.

P13016PC

77. A method as claimed in claim 76, wherein step (d) is carried out using a first cutting tool comprising a blade of a machine tool .

78. A method as claimed in either of claims 76 or 77, wherein step (d) comprises: forming a cut around a portion of the outer sleeve member so as to form adjacent first and second circumferential edges on the first and second outer sleeves.

79. A method as claimed in claim 78, wherein the first and second edges are formed in a groove carried on the container closure member.

80. A method as claimed in either of claims 78 or 79, wherein the first and second circumferential edges are of reduced diameter compared to at least adjacent portions of the first or second outer sleeve, respectively.

81. A method as claimed in any of claims 76 to 80, wherein after step (c) the method also comprises the step of:

82. A method as claimed in claim 81, wherein step (e) is carried out using a second cutting tool comprising a further blade of a machine tool .

83. A method as claimed in either of claims 81 or 82, wherein steps (d) and (e) are undertaken substantially simultaneously.

P1301SPC

84. A method as claimed in any of claims 76 to 83, wherein the closure assembly so formed comprises a unitary assembly for snap-on application to a mouth and neck portion of a container.

85. A method of bottling comprising:

(a) providing a closure assembly manufactured according to any of claims 1 to 70;

(b) providing a bottle; (c) at least partially filling the bottle with a liquid; (d) closing the bottle by applying the closure assembly to a mouth and neck of the bottle.

P13016PC