WO2017118483A1 - Assembly comprising a plastic container for holding fluids, comprising a lock and key device - Google Patents

Assembly comprising a plastic container for holding fluids, comprising a lock and key device Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2017118483A1
WO2017118483A1 PCT/EP2016/050214 EP2016050214W WO2017118483A1 WO 2017118483 A1 WO2017118483 A1 WO 2017118483A1 EP 2016050214 W EP2016050214 W EP 2016050214W WO 2017118483 A1 WO2017118483 A1 WO 2017118483A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
threaded
neck
plastic container
kit
assembly according
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2016/050214
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Ernest NOLTEN
Thomas Mai
Original Assignee
Ecolab Usa Inc.
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Ecolab Usa Inc. filed Critical Ecolab Usa Inc.
Priority to PCT/EP2016/050214 priority Critical patent/WO2017118483A1/en
Priority to EP16700331.8A priority patent/EP3400174B1/en
Publication of WO2017118483A1 publication Critical patent/WO2017118483A1/en

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Classifications

    • 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
    • B65D1/00—Containers having bodies formed in one piece, e.g. by casting metallic material, by moulding plastics, by blowing vitreous material, by throwing ceramic material, by moulding pulped fibrous material, by deep-drawing operations performed on sheet material
    • B65D1/12—Cans, casks, barrels, or drums
    • B65D1/20—Cans, casks, barrels, or drums characterised by location or arrangement of filling or discharge apertures

Definitions

  • the present invention refers to a kit or system or assembly comprising a plastic container for holding fluids and a threaded coupling member for coupling an emptying device to the container, wherein said plastic container is having a lock and key device for selective mounting of different sizes of such threaded coupling members.
  • the plastic container for holding fluids can be equipped with emptying devices for emptying said container.
  • the document US 6,543,654 B1 discloses a device for emptying containers filled with liquids and having a bung opening, the device comprises an adapter comprising an edge and a center part, the edge being designed for placement within the bung opening; a suction lance attached to the center part of the adapter and extending from the adapter so that when the adapter is placed within the bung opening, the suction lance extends into the container; a coupling member connectable to the adapter for connecting a suction device to the adapter; and a cover cap.
  • Plastic containers in particular portable plastic containers are employed to transport, store and dispense diverse liquids for example detergent compositions, bleach compositions and the like.
  • different compositions have to be applied separately and sometimes in a specific order. Therefore it is very important that the user does not mix up different containers containing different liquids.
  • a separate ring comprising spacers is applied to the neck of the plastic canister. This ring is configured to allow caps to be applied to the neck, but to avoid the connection of certain suction lances. Thereby mixing up of the liquid products by the user is avoided.
  • This design avoids that the user connects a plastic canister holding an undesired liquid to a specific suction lance, thereby mixing up liquid products is prevented.
  • the object of the present invention was to provide a plastic container and a kit or system or assembly comprising such plastic container which avoids the manual application of a separate ring to the neck in the packaging process, which avoids an incorrect arrangement on the neck and which avoids a risk of plastic particles derived from the ring being introduced into the liquid product, thereby avoiding damage of downstream elements by such plastic particles.
  • the object of the present invention is solved by the following
  • a kit or system or assembly comprising:
  • a lock and key device comprising one or more ribs integral with the first plastic container, said one or more ribs projecting from the outer surface of the top wall of the first plastic container;
  • first threaded coupling member for coupling an emptying device to the first plastic container, wherein the first threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container;
  • a threaded closure cap for closing the opening of the first plastic container, wherein the threaded closure cap is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
  • the first threaded coupling member comprising a first threaded cap nut for fixing a separate emptying device having a suction lance to the first plastic container, wherein the first threaded cap nut is configured to be screwed on the neck of the first plastic container;
  • the first threaded coupling member is represented by an emptying device having an integral threaded cap portion and having a suction lance, wherein the threaded cap portion is configured to be screwed on the neck of the first plastic container.
  • the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the first threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap when screwed on the neck is from about 0.5 mm to about 5.0 mm, preferably from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm, more preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm, even further preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 1 .5 mm.
  • the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line, wherein said single-thread line is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis inclined at an angle of 60° or less, preferably of 30 °C or less in respect to the line or axis running through the center of the opening and through one of the one or more ribs.
  • the lock and key device comprises one rib and wherein the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line, wherein said single-thread line is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis running through the center of the opening and the rib or is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis inclined at an angle of 60° or less, preferably of 30 °C or less in respect to the line or axis running through the center of the opening and through the rib.
  • the lock and key device comprises one rib and wherein said one rib is arranged in the line of symmetry of the first plastic container.
  • the lock and key device comprises one rib integral with the first plastic container, wherein said rib has completely or partly circular shape which circular shape is parallel to the circular neck, and wherein the dimension of the rib corresponds to an angle of at least 20°, at least 45°, at least 75°, at least 90°, at least 120°, at least 180°, at least 270° or 360°, wherein the vertex of said angle coincides with the center of the annular neck.
  • said second plastic container for holding fluids, said second plastic container comprising a threaded neck projecting from a top wall of said second plastic container, said threaded neck defining an opening;
  • the second threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the second plastic container and can not be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
  • kit or system or assembly of this invention are not limited to comprise a particular number of items specified in the claims, which number can vary and are understood by skilled artisans. It is further to be understood that all terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting in any manner or scope.
  • the kit or system or assembly of the present invention comprises one or more first plastic containers, one or more first threaded coupling members and in the preferred embodiments one or more second plastic containers and one or more second threaded coupling members.
  • the present invention provides a kit or system or assembly comprising:
  • a lock and key device comprising one or more ribs integral with the first plastic container, said one or more ribs projecting from the outer surface of the top wall of the first plastic container;
  • first threaded coupling member for coupling an emptying device to the first plastic container, wherein the first threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container;
  • a threaded closure cap for closing the opening of the first plastic container, wherein the threaded closure cap is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
  • the present invention provides a kit or system or assembly comprising a first plastic container having integrated blocking ribs in the vicinity of the threaded neck which blocks the arrangement of a threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap having an outer circumference exceeding the permissible dimension.
  • the lock and key device integrally arranged on the top surface of the first plastic container avoids the manual application of a separate ring to the neck in the packaging process, thereby avoiding a risk of plastic particles derived from the ring being introduced into the liquid product and thereby avoiding a damage of downstream elements by such plastic particles.
  • the integrated blocking ribs arranged in the vicinity of the threaded neck serve the advantageous effect to avoid application of an undesired or unsuitable emptying device to the first plastic container and thereby to mix up the diverse liquids.
  • Portable plastic containers are employed to transport, store and dispense diverse liquids for example detergent compositions, bleach compositions and the like. Since in many cleaning or disinfection applications different compositions have to be applied separately and in some cases in a specific order it is important that the consumer or user does not mix up the different containers.
  • the blocking rib(s) is/are configured to allow the correct threaded coupling member and emptying device to be applied to the threaded neck, but blocks the connection of those threaded coupling members and emptying devices, respectively, which are not intended to be connected to a specific type of container which is comprising a specific typ of liquid. Thereby mixing up liquid products is prevented.
  • the first threaded coupling member is for coupling an emptying device to the opening of the first plastic container. Further, the first threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
  • the first threaded coupling member comprises a threaded cap nut and a separate emptying device having a suction lance.
  • the threaded cap nut is configured to be screwed on the neck of the first plastic container and to couple said emptying device to the first plastic container.
  • Said emptying device comprises a suction lance pointing into the interior of the first plastic canister.
  • the first threaded coupling member is represented by an emptying device having an integral threaded cap portion and having a suction lance.
  • An example of this embodiment is shown in Figure 4.
  • Said suction lance points into the interior of the first plastic canister.
  • the threaded cap portion is configured to be screwed on the neck of the first plastic container.
  • the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the neck is configured to block a threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap, respectively, from being screwed on the threaded neck, if said threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap, respectively, has an outer circumference or radius larger than the permissible predetermined size. This situation is shown in Figure 1 .
  • the outer circumference of the threaded closure cap is having a size not larger than the size permitted by the lock and key device. Further, the threaded closure cap for closing the opening of the first plastic container has an outer circumference or radius which does not result in a blockage of screwing said threaded closure cap on the threaded neck.
  • the outer circumference of the first threaded coupling member is having a size not larger than the size permitted by the lock and key device. Further, the first threaded coupling member has an outer circumference which does not result in a blockage of screwing said threaded cap nut on the threaded neck.
  • the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the neck is defining the maximum size or circumference or radius of a threaded closure cap and a threaded coupling member, respectively, to be screwed on the threaded neck.
  • the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the neck is from about 0.5 cm to about 4.0 cm, further preferred from about 0.5 cm to about 3.0 cm, more preferred from about 0.5 cm to about 2.0 cm, still more preferred from about 0.5 cm to about 1 .5 cm.
  • each of the distances between each rib of the lock and key device and the neck is the same.
  • the one or more ribs of the lock and key device are configured not to engage with the first threaded coupling member and the threaded closure cap, respectively, when screwed on the neck. In a further preferred embodiment the one or more ribs of the lock and key device are configured not to get into contact with the appropriate (first) threaded coupling member and the appropriate threaded closure cap, respectively, when screwed on the neck.
  • the advantage of the absence of contact between the blocking ribs and the outer surface of these elements to be screwed to the threaded neck, namely the first threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap, is that the risk is reduced of plastic particles being produced from the plastic elements which may contaminate the liquid product or damage downstream elements when the liquid product is transported into the direction of the point of use.
  • the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the first threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap, respectively, i.e. the outer surface thereof, when screwed on the neck is chosen to be from about 0.5 mm to about 5.0 mm, further preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm, more preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm, even further preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 1 .5 mm.
  • the advantage of the distance or gap between the blocking ribs and the outer surface of these elements to be screwed to the threaded neck is to provide a tolerance for avoiding any contact and any friction between these plastic parts and thereby avoiding a risk that plastic particles derived from the plastic parts are produced which may contaminate the liquid product or damage downstream elements. Further, such minimum gap facilitates screwing the first threaded coupling member on the neck.
  • the lock and key device comprises 2, 3, 4 or more ribs integral with the first plastic container, wherein the ribs are arranged around the neck and each rib is located with the same distance to the neck, preferably the angles between each rib and its respective adjacent rib are the same.
  • the advantage of the presence of a plurality of ribs, preferably evenly distributed around the neck, is by that feature a forced mounting of an unsuitable and oversized threaded coupling member to the neck can be avoided.
  • the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line. More preferably, the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line, wherein said single-thread line is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis running through the center of the opening and through one of the one or more ribs.
  • said single-thread line is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis inclined at an angle of 60° or less, preferably of 30 °C or less in respect to the line or axis running through the center of the opening and through one of the one or more ribs.
  • the lock and key device comprises in a) one rib and the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line, wherein said single-thread line is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis running through the center of the opening and the rib or is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis inclined at an angle of 60° or less, preferably of 30 °C or less in respect to the line or axis running through the center of the opening and through the rib.
  • the advantage of this positioning of the start of the thread line in correspondence with or in the vicinity of the blocking rib is as follows. If the start of the thread line of the threaded neck of the first plastic container is not in correspondence with or at least in the vicinity of the blocking rib a damage of the blocking rib may occur. In such a case, namely if the start of the thread line is at a different position, for example on the opposite side, the user may possibly force an unsuitable threaded closure cap or threaded coupling member (such as the second threaded coupling member), having an appropriate suitable internal thread, but unsuitable, namely oversized outer circumference, to the neck and thereby damage the blocking rib(s) or other parts. This problem may occur in particular if only one blocking rib is arranged.
  • the lock and key device comprises one rib and said one rib is arranged in the line of symmetry of the first plastic container. This feature serves the purpose to facilitate demolding, i.e. removing the plastic container from the mold.
  • the neck comprises an unthreaded portion along the line of symmetry of the first plastic container. This means that a portion or strip along the longitudinal direction of the neck along the line of symmetry of the first plastic container said neck is even or plain and does not comprise a thread. This feature serves also the purpose to facilitate demolding.
  • a rib rather represents a partly or completely annular bulge or ridge which is parallel to the neck. Therefore, the present invention provides an embodiment wherein the rib or ribs has/have completely or partly circular shape which circular shape is parallel to the annular neck.
  • the lock and key device comprises one rib integral with the first plastic container, wherein said rib has completely or partly circular shape which circular shape is parallel to the circular neck, and wherein the dimension of the rib corresponds to an angle of at least 20°, at least 45°, at least 75°, at least 90°, at least 120°, at least 180°, at least 270° or 360°, wherein the vertex of said angle coincides with the center of the annular neck.
  • the lock and key device comprises one rib integral with the first plastic container, wherein said rib has a partly circular shape parallel to the circular neck.
  • the lock and key device comprises one rib integral with the first plastic container, wherein said rib has a completely circular shape parallel to the circular neck, i.e. the rib is completely surrounding the neck.
  • said second plastic container for holding fluids, said second plastic container comprising a threaded neck projecting from a top wall of said second plastic container, said threaded neck defining an opening;
  • the second threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the second plastic container and can not be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
  • the second plastic container typically does not comprise said lock and key device of the first plastic container or, if the second plastic container does have such lock and key device or other bulges, protrusions or similar elements, then these elements are more distant to the neck as compared to the first plastic container.
  • This configuration allows that the second threaded coupling member, which has larger outer dimensions compared to the first threaded coupling member, is being screwed on the neck of the second plastic container. However, the second threaded coupling member can not be screwed on the neck of the first plastic container.
  • the threaded necks of the first and second container have the same dimensions. Further, both the first and second threaded coupling member have an appropriate internal thread which corresponds to the threaded neck of the first and second container. Therefore, both the first and second threaded coupling member would fit to the threaded neck of the first and second container, if the lock and key device of the first plastic container would not block the second threaded coupling member due to the larger outer dimensions of the latter. Since the outer dimension or circumference of the second threaded coupling member is larger than that of the first threaded coupling member the second threaded coupling member can not be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
  • the second threaded coupling member may have the same features, structure and function as the first threaded coupling member.
  • the second threaded coupling member is for coupling an emptying device to the opening of the second plastic container.
  • the second threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the second plastic container, and does not fit onto the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
  • the second threaded coupling member comprises a threaded cap nut and a separate emptying device having a suction lance.
  • the threaded cap nut is configured to be screwed on the neck of the second plastic container and to couple said emptying device to the second plastic container.
  • Said emptying device comprises a suction lance pointing into the interior of the first plastic canister.
  • the second threaded coupling member is represented by an emptying device having an integral threaded cap portion and having a suction lance. Said suction lance points into the interior of the second plastic canister.
  • the threaded cap portion is configured to be screwed on the neck of the second plastic container.
  • the outer circumference of the second threaded coupling member is having a size which is larger than the size permitted by the lock and key device of the first plastic container. Therefore, the second threaded coupling member does not fit to the threaded neck of the first plastic container. Further, the second threaded coupling member has an outer circumference which results in a blockage of screwing said threaded cap nut on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
  • the first plastic container is filled with a cleaning composition.
  • the first plastic container is filled with a cleaning composition and the second plastic container is filled with a disinfecting composition. Therefore, the emptying device, which is coupled by the second threaded coupling member to the second plastic container, is used for the transport of the disinfecting composition to the point of use.
  • this emptying device intended for the use with disinfecting composition can not be arranged to the first plastic container. Therefore, the user can not erroneously provide a cleaning composition instead of disinfecting composition.
  • the first or second plastic container typically is a portable container for holding about 5 L of a liquid.
  • the plastic container is configured for holding from about 3 L to about 100 L, more preferred from about 3 L to about 80 L, further preferred from about 3 L to about 60 L, still further preferred from about 3 L to about 40, even further preferred from about 3 L to about 20 L and most preferred from about 3 L to about 10 L of a liquid.
  • Figure 1 shows a side view of the upper part of the first plastic container 1 having the typical shape of a portable 5 L canister.
  • the plastic container 1 comprises a handle 6 and a neck 3 defining an opening 7 said neck 3 protruding from the top wall 2 of the canister.
  • the neck 3 comprises an external thread 3a.
  • the area of the neck is shown as cross-sectional view.
  • the plastic container 1 comprises an integral rib 4 in the vicinity of the threaded neck 3 arranged in a defined distance from the same.
  • a cap nut 5 having an internal thread is shown also as cross- sectional view.
  • the internal thread of the threaded cap nut 5 matches the external thread 3a of neck 3, however, the threaded cap nut 5 is having an inappropriate outer circumference or radius, i.e.
  • an outer rim 5a protrudes from the side of the threaded cap nut 5 to such extent that the cap nut 5 can not be screwed on the neck 3 of the plastic container, because of the blocking rib 4.
  • the integral rib 4 is blocking the application of the inappropriate threaded cap nut 5 to the threaded neck.
  • the threaded cap nut 5 shown in Figure 1 having unsuitable outer dimensions corresponds to the feature of the second threaded coupling member in the description of this application.
  • Figure 2 shows a side view of the upper part of a (first) plastic container 1 as in Figure 1 .
  • the plastic container 1 comprises an integral rib 4 in the vicinity of the threaded neck 3 arranged in a defined distance from the same.
  • the area of the neck is a cross-sectional view.
  • a threaded cap nut 5 is shown.
  • the internal thread of the threaded cap nut 5 matches the external thread of neck 3.
  • the threaded cap nut 5 shown in Figure 2 is having an appropriate outer circumference or radius, i.e. appropriate outer dimensions.
  • the integral rib 4 does not block but allows the application of the appropriate threaded cap nut 5 to the threaded neck 3 by screwing.
  • the threaded cap nut 5 is for fixing an emptying device (not shown) to the plastic container.
  • the threaded cap nut 5 comprises protrusions for gripping 5c.
  • Figure 3 shows a side view of the upper part of a (first) plastic container 1 as in Figure 1 and 2.
  • the plastic container 1 comprises an integral rib 4 in the vicinity of the threaded neck 3 arranged in a defined distance from the same.
  • the area of the neck is a cross-sectional view.
  • a threaded cap nut 5 having the same dimensions as the one shown in Figure 2 is indicated.
  • the threaded cap nut 5 is screwed on the neck 3.
  • said threaded cap nut 5 is having an appropriate outer circumference or radius, i.e. appropriate outer dimensions.
  • the threaded cap nut 5 shown in Figure 3 which has suitable outer dimensions corresponds to the feature of the first threaded coupling member as further described herein in this application. Therefore, the integral rib 4 does not block but allows the application of this appropriate threaded cap nut 5 to the threaded neck 3.
  • the threaded cap nut 5 comprises protrusions for gripping 5c.
  • the threaded cap nut 5 is for fixing an emptying device (not shown) to the plastic container.
  • the threaded cap nut comprises a seat 8 for receiving said emptying device which may be designed as described in US 6,543,654 B1 , which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
  • the separate emptying device to be fixed to the plastic container comprises a flange corresponding to the seat 8 of the threaded cap nut 5 and a dip tube pointing to the interior of the plastic container and is constrained to the opening of the plastic container by the cap nut 5.
  • the emptying device further comprises a tube passing the through-hole 12 of the cap nut 5 and extending in the direction of the point of use.
  • the emptying device For emptying the plastic container 1 an emptying device is inserted into the opening 7.
  • the emptying device may for example substantially consist of an adapter which can be knocked into the opening 7 to be fluid-tight.
  • a threaded coupling member 5 then is used for attachment of said emptying device to the canister 1 .
  • the emptying device may be connected via a suction connector in the direction of the point of use.
  • the distance between the rib 4 and the outer surface of the (first) threaded coupling member or threaded cap nut 5, when screwed on the neck is chosen to be from about 0.5 mm to about 5.0 mm, preferably from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm, more preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm, even further preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 1 .5 mm.
  • Figure 4 shows a side view of the upper part of a (first) plastic container 1 as in Figure 1 , 2 and 3.
  • the plastic container 1 comprises an integral rib 4 in the vicinity of the threaded neck 3 arranged in a defined distance from the same.
  • the area of the neck is a cross-sectional view.
  • an alternative embodiment of the (first) threaded coupling member 5 is shown.
  • the threaded cap nut is an integral part of the emptying device 13 and denominated as integral threaded cap portion 5b.
  • the emptying device 13 is shown in cross-sectional view.
  • the emptying device 13 further comprises a dip tube 9 pointing into the interior of the canister 1 and a tube 10 extending in the direction of the point of use.
  • the threaded cap portion 5b of the emptying device 13 is configured to be screwed on the neck 3 of the plastic container 1 thereby tightly fixing the emptying device 13 in its position.
  • the threaded cap portion 5b has an appropriate outer circumference or radius, i.e. appropriate outer dimensions. Therefore, the integral rib 4 does not block but allows the application of this appropriate threaded cap portion 5b to the threaded neck 3.
  • a seal 1 1 is shown for sealing the opening when the emptying device 13 is in position.
  • the threaded cap portion 5b comprises protrusions for gripping 5c.
  • the emptying device of any of the two embodiments mentioned comprises a dip tube pointing into the interior of the plastic container 1 and serves for emptying the plastic container 1 .
  • the plastic container 1 can be closed by way of a non-illustrated closure cap able to be tightly screwed onto the threaded neck 3.
  • a separate emptying device is applied to the plastic container 1 by using the threaded cap nut 5 as fixing element as shown in Figures 2 and 3, or an emptying device 13 having an integral threaded cap portion 5b is applied to the plastic container 1 as shown in Figure 4.
  • either one of the two embodimewnts of the emtying device preferably has a degassing bore (not shown).
  • Figure 5 is a perspective view of the threaded cap nut 5 of Figures 2 and 3.
  • the threaded cap nut 5 is designed for fixing a separate emptying device to the plastic container.
  • the cap nut 5 comprises a through-hole 12 which allows that the tube of the emptying devise passes therethrough in the direction of the point of use.
  • the threaded cap nut 5 comprises an outer rim 5a and protrusions for gripping 5c.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Ceramic Engineering (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention refers to a kit or system or assembly comprising: a) a first plastic container (1) for holding fluids, comprising i) a threaded neck (3) projecting from a top wall (2) of said plastic container, said threaded neck defining an opening (7); ii) a lock and key device comprising one or more ribs (4) integral with the plastic container, said one or more ribs projecting from the outer surface of the top wall of the plastic container; and b) a first threaded coupling member (5) for coupling an emptying device to the plastic container, wherein the first threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the plastic container; and c) optionally, a threaded closure cap for closing the opening of the plastic container, wherein the threaded closure cap is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the plastic container. Such kit or system or assembly blocks the arrangement of a threaded coupling member having an outer circumference exceeding the permissible dimension.

Description

ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A PLASTIC CONTAINER FOR HOLDING FLUIDS, COMPRISING
A LOCK AND KEY DEVICE
The present invention refers to a kit or system or assembly comprising a plastic container for holding fluids and a threaded coupling member for coupling an emptying device to the container, wherein said plastic container is having a lock and key device for selective mounting of different sizes of such threaded coupling members. In particular, the plastic container for holding fluids can be equipped with emptying devices for emptying said container.
Technical field
Devices for emptying containers filled with liquids, especially canisters and barrels, comprising an adapter, which is fixable in a bung opening of the container and provided with a suction lance pointing into the container are known in the art.
Devices of that kind for emptying barrels and canisters filled with liquids are known in practice in various forms. In some of these known devices adapters provided with suction lances are firmly pressed or knocked into the bung openings of the containers.
The document US 6,543,654 B1 discloses a device for emptying containers filled with liquids and having a bung opening, the device comprises an adapter comprising an edge and a center part, the edge being designed for placement within the bung opening; a suction lance attached to the center part of the adapter and extending from the adapter so that when the adapter is placed within the bung opening, the suction lance extends into the container; a coupling member connectable to the adapter for connecting a suction device to the adapter; and a cover cap.
Plastic containers, in particular portable plastic containers are employed to transport, store and dispense diverse liquids for example detergent compositions, bleach compositions and the like. In many cleaning or disinfection applications different compositions have to be applied separately and sometimes in a specific order. Therefore it is very important that the user does not mix up different containers containing different liquids. For this purpose, currently a separate ring comprising spacers is applied to the neck of the plastic canister. This ring is configured to allow caps to be applied to the neck, but to avoid the connection of certain suction lances. Thereby mixing up of the liquid products by the user is avoided. This design avoids that the user connects a plastic canister holding an undesired liquid to a specific suction lance, thereby mixing up liquid products is prevented.
However, the drawback of such separate ring is that it has to be applied manually to the neck in the packaging process which increases costs. A further disadvantage is that the ring not always fits correctly. If the ring does not fit correctly or is not arranged correctly there is a risk that the ring breaks or that plastic particles are scratched from the ring when the cap is applied to the neck. Then plastic parts or particles derived from the broken or damaged ring can cause potential contamination of the product when the cap is removed from the container leading to a damage of downstream elements, such as filter elements, pumps etc., when withdrawn by a suction lance.
Summary of the invention
Therefore, the object of the present invention was to provide a plastic container and a kit or system or assembly comprising such plastic container which avoids the manual application of a separate ring to the neck in the packaging process, which avoids an incorrect arrangement on the neck and which avoids a risk of plastic particles derived from the ring being introduced into the liquid product, thereby avoiding damage of downstream elements by such plastic particles. The object of the present invention is solved by the following
(1 ) A kit or system or assembly comprising:
a) a first plastic container for holding fluids, comprising
i) a threaded neck projecting from a top wall of said plastic container, said threaded neck defining an opening;
ii) a lock and key device comprising one or more ribs integral with the first plastic container, said one or more ribs projecting from the outer surface of the top wall of the first plastic container;
and
b) a first threaded coupling member for coupling an emptying device to the first plastic container, wherein the first threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container;
and
c) optionally, a threaded closure cap for closing the opening of the first plastic container, wherein the threaded closure cap is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
(2) The kit or system or assembly according to (1 ), wherein
i) the first threaded coupling member comprising a first threaded cap nut for fixing a separate emptying device having a suction lance to the first plastic container, wherein the first threaded cap nut is configured to be screwed on the neck of the first plastic container; or
ii) the first threaded coupling member is represented by an emptying device having an integral threaded cap portion and having a suction lance, wherein the threaded cap portion is configured to be screwed on the neck of the first plastic container.
(3) The kit or system or assembly according to (1 ) or (2), wherein in a) the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the neck is defining the maximum size or circumference of the threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap, to be screwed on the threaded neck. (4) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (3), wherein in a) the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the neck is from about 0.5 cm to about 4.0 cm, preferably from about 0.5 cm to about 3.0 cm, more preferred from about 0.5 cm to about 2.0 cm, still more preferred from about 0.5 cm to about 1 .5 cm.
(5) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (4), wherein each of the distances between each rib of the lock and key device and the neck is the same.
(6) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (5), wherein the one or more ribs of the lock and key device are configured not to get into contact and/or are configured not to engage with the first threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap when screwed on the neck.
(7) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (6), wherein the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the first threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap when screwed on the neck is from about 0.5 mm to about 5.0 mm, preferably from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm, more preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm, even further preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 1 .5 mm.
(8) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (7), wherein the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the neck is configured to block the threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap, from being screwed on the threaded neck, if said threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap has an outer circumference larger than the permissible predetermined size.
(9) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (8), wherein the lock and key device comprises 2, 3, 4 or more ribs integral with the first plastic container, wherein the ribs are arranged around the neck and each rib is located with the same distance to the neck, preferably the angles between each rib and its respective adjacent rib are the same.
(10) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (9), wherein the longitudinal axis of each rib coincides with the radius of the threaded neck.
(1 1 ) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (10), wherein in a) the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line.
(12) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (10), wherein in a) the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line, wherein said single-thread line is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis running through the center of the opening and through one of the one or more ribs.
(13) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (10), wherein in a) the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line, wherein said single-thread line is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis inclined at an angle of 60° or less, preferably of 30 °C or less in respect to the line or axis running through the center of the opening and through one of the one or more ribs.
(14) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (10), wherein in a) the lock and key device comprises one rib and wherein the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line, wherein said single-thread line is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis running through the center of the opening and the rib or is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis inclined at an angle of 60° or less, preferably of 30 °C or less in respect to the line or axis running through the center of the opening and through the rib. (15) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (14), wherein in a) the lock and key device comprises one rib and wherein said one rib is arranged in the line of symmetry of the first plastic container.
(16) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (15), wherein in a) the neck comprises an unthreaded portion along the line of symmetry of the first plastic container.
(17) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (9), wherein the rib or ribs has/have completely or partly circular shape which circular shape is parallel to the annular neck.
(18) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (9), wherein the lock and key device comprises one rib integral with the first plastic container, wherein said rib has completely or partly circular shape which circular shape is parallel to the circular neck, and wherein the dimension of the rib corresponds to an angle of at least 20°, at least 45°, at least 75°, at least 90°, at least 120°, at least 180°, at least 270° or 360°, wherein the vertex of said angle coincides with the center of the annular neck.
(19) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (9), wherein the lock and key device comprises one rib integral with the first plastic container, wherein said rib has a partly circular shape parallel to the circular neck.
(20) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (19), wherein in c) the outer circumference of the threaded closure cap is having a size not larger than the size permitted by the lock and key device.
(21 ) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (20), wherein in c) the threaded closure cap for closing the opening of the first plastic container has an outer circumference which does not result in a blockage of screwing said threaded closure cap on the threaded neck. (22) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (21 ), wherein in b) the outer circumference of the first threaded coupling member is having a size not larger than the size permitted by the lock and key device.
(23) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (22), wherein in b) the first threaded coupling member has an outer circumference which does not result in a blockage of screwing said threaded cap nut on the threaded neck.
(24) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of (1 ) to (23), further comprising
- a second plastic container for holding fluids, said second plastic container comprising a threaded neck projecting from a top wall of said second plastic container, said threaded neck defining an opening;
and
- a second threaded coupling member for coupling an emptying device to the second plastic container, wherein the second threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the second plastic container and can not be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
(25) The kit or system or assembly according to any one of 1 to 24, wherein the first plastic container is filled with a cleaning composition.
(26) The kit or system or assembly according to 24, wherein the first plastic container is filled with a cleaning composition and the second plastic container is filled with a disinfecting composition.
Definitions
The embodiments of the kit or system or assembly of this invention are not limited to comprise a particular number of items specified in the claims, which number can vary and are understood by skilled artisans. It is further to be understood that all terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting in any manner or scope. For example, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an" and "the" can include plural referents unless the content clearly indicates otherwise. For example, the kit or system or assembly of the present invention comprises one or more first plastic containers, one or more first threaded coupling members and in the preferred embodiments one or more second plastic containers and one or more second threaded coupling members.
Detailed description of the present invention
The present invention provides a kit or system or assembly comprising:
a) a first plastic container for holding fluids, comprising
i) a threaded neck projecting from a top wall of said plastic container, said threaded neck defining an opening;
ii) a lock and key device comprising one or more ribs integral with the first plastic container, said one or more ribs projecting from the outer surface of the top wall of the first plastic container;
and
b) a first threaded coupling member for coupling an emptying device to the first plastic container, wherein the first threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container;
and
c) optionally, a threaded closure cap for closing the opening of the first plastic container, wherein the threaded closure cap is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
The present invention provides a kit or system or assembly comprising a first plastic container having integrated blocking ribs in the vicinity of the threaded neck which blocks the arrangement of a threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap having an outer circumference exceeding the permissible dimension. The lock and key device integrally arranged on the top surface of the first plastic container avoids the manual application of a separate ring to the neck in the packaging process, thereby avoiding a risk of plastic particles derived from the ring being introduced into the liquid product and thereby avoiding a damage of downstream elements by such plastic particles.
The integrated blocking ribs arranged in the vicinity of the threaded neck serve the advantageous effect to avoid application of an undesired or unsuitable emptying device to the first plastic container and thereby to mix up the diverse liquids. Portable plastic containers are employed to transport, store and dispense diverse liquids for example detergent compositions, bleach compositions and the like. Since in many cleaning or disinfection applications different compositions have to be applied separately and in some cases in a specific order it is important that the consumer or user does not mix up the different containers. The blocking rib(s) is/are configured to allow the correct threaded coupling member and emptying device to be applied to the threaded neck, but blocks the connection of those threaded coupling members and emptying devices, respectively, which are not intended to be connected to a specific type of container which is comprising a specific typ of liquid. Thereby mixing up liquid products is prevented.
The first threaded coupling member is for coupling an emptying device to the opening of the first plastic container. Further, the first threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
In one preferred embodiment the first threaded coupling member comprises a threaded cap nut and a separate emptying device having a suction lance. The threaded cap nut is configured to be screwed on the neck of the first plastic container and to couple said emptying device to the first plastic container. Said emptying device comprises a suction lance pointing into the interior of the first plastic canister. An example of this embodiment is shown in Figures 2 and 3.
In an alternative embodiment the first threaded coupling member is represented by an emptying device having an integral threaded cap portion and having a suction lance. An example of this embodiment is shown in Figure 4. Said suction lance points into the interior of the first plastic canister. The threaded cap portion is configured to be screwed on the neck of the first plastic container. The distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the neck is configured to block a threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap, respectively, from being screwed on the threaded neck, if said threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap, respectively, has an outer circumference or radius larger than the permissible predetermined size. This situation is shown in Figure 1 .
The outer circumference of the threaded closure cap is having a size not larger than the size permitted by the lock and key device. Further, the threaded closure cap for closing the opening of the first plastic container has an outer circumference or radius which does not result in a blockage of screwing said threaded closure cap on the threaded neck.
The outer circumference of the first threaded coupling member is having a size not larger than the size permitted by the lock and key device. Further, the first threaded coupling member has an outer circumference which does not result in a blockage of screwing said threaded cap nut on the threaded neck.
The distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the neck is defining the maximum size or circumference or radius of a threaded closure cap and a threaded coupling member, respectively, to be screwed on the threaded neck. In a preferred embodiment the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the neck is from about 0.5 cm to about 4.0 cm, further preferred from about 0.5 cm to about 3.0 cm, more preferred from about 0.5 cm to about 2.0 cm, still more preferred from about 0.5 cm to about 1 .5 cm.
In case there are two or more ribs arranged for the purposes of blocking oversized items to be arranged on the threaded neck each of the distances between each rib of the lock and key device and the neck is the same.
In another preferred embodiment the one or more ribs of the lock and key device are configured not to engage with the first threaded coupling member and the threaded closure cap, respectively, when screwed on the neck. In a further preferred embodiment the one or more ribs of the lock and key device are configured not to get into contact with the appropriate (first) threaded coupling member and the appropriate threaded closure cap, respectively, when screwed on the neck. The advantage of the absence of contact between the blocking ribs and the outer surface of these elements to be screwed to the threaded neck, namely the first threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap, is that the risk is reduced of plastic particles being produced from the plastic elements which may contaminate the liquid product or damage downstream elements when the liquid product is transported into the direction of the point of use.
More preferably, the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the first threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap, respectively, i.e. the outer surface thereof, when screwed on the neck is chosen to be from about 0.5 mm to about 5.0 mm, further preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm, more preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm, even further preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 1 .5 mm. The advantage of the distance or gap between the blocking ribs and the outer surface of these elements to be screwed to the threaded neck is to provide a tolerance for avoiding any contact and any friction between these plastic parts and thereby avoiding a risk that plastic particles derived from the plastic parts are produced which may contaminate the liquid product or damage downstream elements. Further, such minimum gap facilitates screwing the first threaded coupling member on the neck.
In another preferred embodiment the lock and key device comprises 2, 3, 4 or more ribs integral with the first plastic container, wherein the ribs are arranged around the neck and each rib is located with the same distance to the neck, preferably the angles between each rib and its respective adjacent rib are the same. The advantage of the presence of a plurality of ribs, preferably evenly distributed around the neck, is by that feature a forced mounting of an unsuitable and oversized threaded coupling member to the neck can be avoided. There are two major embodiments of the integral rib(s). (1 ) In one embodiment the longitudinal axis of each rib coincides with the radius of the threaded neck. That is only one end of the rib is pointing to the neck while the other end points to the opposite direction. (2) In an alternative embodiment a rib rather represents a partly or completely annular bulge or ridge which is parallel to the neck. In such embodiment the rib or ribs has/have completely or partly circular shape which circular shape is parallel to the annular neck.
In one embodiment the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line. More preferably, the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line, wherein said single-thread line is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis running through the center of the opening and through one of the one or more ribs.
In an alternative embodiment said single-thread line is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis inclined at an angle of 60° or less, preferably of 30 °C or less in respect to the line or axis running through the center of the opening and through one of the one or more ribs.
In a further preferred embodiment the lock and key device comprises in a) one rib and the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line, wherein said single-thread line is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis running through the center of the opening and the rib or is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis inclined at an angle of 60° or less, preferably of 30 °C or less in respect to the line or axis running through the center of the opening and through the rib.
The advantage of this positioning of the start of the thread line in correspondence with or in the vicinity of the blocking rib is as follows. If the start of the thread line of the threaded neck of the first plastic container is not in correspondence with or at least in the vicinity of the blocking rib a damage of the blocking rib may occur. In such a case, namely if the start of the thread line is at a different position, for example on the opposite side, the user may possibly force an unsuitable threaded closure cap or threaded coupling member (such as the second threaded coupling member), having an appropriate suitable internal thread, but unsuitable, namely oversized outer circumference, to the neck and thereby damage the blocking rib(s) or other parts. This problem may occur in particular if only one blocking rib is arranged. Positioning the thread line of the external thread of the neck in correspondence to a blocking rib a damage of the blocking rib or of other parts can be prevented, because then it is more difficult or even impossible for the user to begin to screw an unsuitable threaded coupling member to the neck (such as the second threaded coupling member).
Further preferred, in a) the lock and key device comprises one rib and said one rib is arranged in the line of symmetry of the first plastic container. This feature serves the purpose to facilitate demolding, i.e. removing the plastic container from the mold.
In a further preferred embodiment in a) the neck comprises an unthreaded portion along the line of symmetry of the first plastic container. This means that a portion or strip along the longitudinal direction of the neck along the line of symmetry of the first plastic container said neck is even or plain and does not comprise a thread. This feature serves also the purpose to facilitate demolding.
As mentioned above, in an alternative embodiment a rib rather represents a partly or completely annular bulge or ridge which is parallel to the neck. Therefore, the present invention provides an embodiment wherein the rib or ribs has/have completely or partly circular shape which circular shape is parallel to the annular neck. In a particular preferred embodiment the lock and key device comprises one rib integral with the first plastic container, wherein said rib has completely or partly circular shape which circular shape is parallel to the circular neck, and wherein the dimension of the rib corresponds to an angle of at least 20°, at least 45°, at least 75°, at least 90°, at least 120°, at least 180°, at least 270° or 360°, wherein the vertex of said angle coincides with the center of the annular neck. In such embodiment the lock and key device comprises one rib integral with the first plastic container, wherein said rib has a partly circular shape parallel to the circular neck. In case the angle is 360° in such embodiment the lock and key device comprises one rib integral with the first plastic container, wherein said rib has a completely circular shape parallel to the circular neck, i.e. the rib is completely surrounding the neck. An annular rib, ridge or bulge, which completely surrounds the threaded neck, creates a pre-sunk threaded neck or filler flange which is not accessible for the second threaded coupling member.
In a particularly preferred embodiment the kit or system or assembly further comprises
- a second plastic container for holding fluids, said second plastic container comprising a threaded neck projecting from a top wall of said second plastic container, said threaded neck defining an opening;
and
- a second threaded coupling member for coupling an emptying device to the second plastic container, wherein the second threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the second plastic container and can not be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
The second plastic container typically does not comprise said lock and key device of the first plastic container or, if the second plastic container does have such lock and key device or other bulges, protrusions or similar elements, then these elements are more distant to the neck as compared to the first plastic container. This configuration allows that the second threaded coupling member, which has larger outer dimensions compared to the first threaded coupling member, is being screwed on the neck of the second plastic container. However, the second threaded coupling member can not be screwed on the neck of the first plastic container.
The threaded necks of the first and second container have the same dimensions. Further, both the first and second threaded coupling member have an appropriate internal thread which corresponds to the threaded neck of the first and second container. Therefore, both the first and second threaded coupling member would fit to the threaded neck of the first and second container, if the lock and key device of the first plastic container would not block the second threaded coupling member due to the larger outer dimensions of the latter. Since the outer dimension or circumference of the second threaded coupling member is larger than that of the first threaded coupling member the second threaded coupling member can not be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
Apart from the different outer dimensions the second threaded coupling member may have the same features, structure and function as the first threaded coupling member.
The second threaded coupling member is for coupling an emptying device to the opening of the second plastic container. The second threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the second plastic container, and does not fit onto the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
In one preferred embodiment the second threaded coupling member comprises a threaded cap nut and a separate emptying device having a suction lance. The threaded cap nut is configured to be screwed on the neck of the second plastic container and to couple said emptying device to the second plastic container. Said emptying device comprises a suction lance pointing into the interior of the first plastic canister.
In an alternative embodiment the second threaded coupling member is represented by an emptying device having an integral threaded cap portion and having a suction lance. Said suction lance points into the interior of the second plastic canister. The threaded cap portion is configured to be screwed on the neck of the second plastic container.
The outer circumference of the second threaded coupling member is having a size which is larger than the size permitted by the lock and key device of the first plastic container. Therefore, the second threaded coupling member does not fit to the threaded neck of the first plastic container. Further, the second threaded coupling member has an outer circumference which results in a blockage of screwing said threaded cap nut on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
In a further preferred embodiment of the kit or system or assembly the first plastic container is filled with a cleaning composition. Still further preferred, the first plastic container is filled with a cleaning composition and the second plastic container is filled with a disinfecting composition. Therefore, the emptying device, which is coupled by the second threaded coupling member to the second plastic container, is used for the transport of the disinfecting composition to the point of use. However, this emptying device intended for the use with disinfecting composition can not be arranged to the first plastic container. Therefore, the user can not erroneously provide a cleaning composition instead of disinfecting composition.
The first or second plastic container typically is a portable container for holding about 5 L of a liquid. However, the present invention is not limited to such dimensions. In a preferred embodiment the plastic container is configured for holding from about 3 L to about 100 L, more preferred from about 3 L to about 80 L, further preferred from about 3 L to about 60 L, still further preferred from about 3 L to about 40, even further preferred from about 3 L to about 20 L and most preferred from about 3 L to about 10 L of a liquid.
Description of the figures
Figure 1 shows a side view of the upper part of the first plastic container 1 having the typical shape of a portable 5 L canister. The plastic container 1 comprises a handle 6 and a neck 3 defining an opening 7 said neck 3 protruding from the top wall 2 of the canister. The neck 3 comprises an external thread 3a. In this figure the area of the neck is shown as cross-sectional view. The plastic container 1 comprises an integral rib 4 in the vicinity of the threaded neck 3 arranged in a defined distance from the same. Further, a cap nut 5 having an internal thread is shown also as cross- sectional view. The internal thread of the threaded cap nut 5 matches the external thread 3a of neck 3, however, the threaded cap nut 5 is having an inappropriate outer circumference or radius, i.e. inappropriate outer dimensions. In the embodiment shown an outer rim 5a protrudes from the side of the threaded cap nut 5 to such extent that the cap nut 5 can not be screwed on the neck 3 of the plastic container, because of the blocking rib 4. The integral rib 4 is blocking the application of the inappropriate threaded cap nut 5 to the threaded neck. The threaded cap nut 5 shown in Figure 1 having unsuitable outer dimensions corresponds to the feature of the second threaded coupling member in the description of this application.
Figure 2 shows a side view of the upper part of a (first) plastic container 1 as in Figure 1 . As in Figure 1 the plastic container 1 comprises an integral rib 4 in the vicinity of the threaded neck 3 arranged in a defined distance from the same. The area of the neck is a cross-sectional view. In addition, a threaded cap nut 5 is shown. The internal thread of the threaded cap nut 5 matches the external thread of neck 3. Further, the threaded cap nut 5 shown in Figure 2 is having an appropriate outer circumference or radius, i.e. appropriate outer dimensions. As the outer dimensions of the threaded cap nut 5 are sufficiently small in the embodiment shown in this figure the integral rib 4 does not block but allows the application of the appropriate threaded cap nut 5 to the threaded neck 3 by screwing. The threaded cap nut 5 is for fixing an emptying device (not shown) to the plastic container. The threaded cap nut 5 comprises protrusions for gripping 5c.
Figure 3 shows a side view of the upper part of a (first) plastic container 1 as in Figure 1 and 2. The plastic container 1 comprises an integral rib 4 in the vicinity of the threaded neck 3 arranged in a defined distance from the same. The area of the neck is a cross-sectional view. Further, a threaded cap nut 5 having the same dimensions as the one shown in Figure 2 is indicated. Here, the threaded cap nut 5 is screwed on the neck 3. As mentioned before, said threaded cap nut 5 is having an appropriate outer circumference or radius, i.e. appropriate outer dimensions. The threaded cap nut 5 shown in Figure 3 which has suitable outer dimensions corresponds to the feature of the first threaded coupling member as further described herein in this application. Therefore, the integral rib 4 does not block but allows the application of this appropriate threaded cap nut 5 to the threaded neck 3. The threaded cap nut 5 comprises protrusions for gripping 5c.
The threaded cap nut 5 is for fixing an emptying device (not shown) to the plastic container. In order to fix the separate emptying device (not shown) the threaded cap nut comprises a seat 8 for receiving said emptying device which may be designed as described in US 6,543,654 B1 , which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The separate emptying device to be fixed to the plastic container comprises a flange corresponding to the seat 8 of the threaded cap nut 5 and a dip tube pointing to the interior of the plastic container and is constrained to the opening of the plastic container by the cap nut 5. The emptying device further comprises a tube passing the through-hole 12 of the cap nut 5 and extending in the direction of the point of use.
For emptying the plastic container 1 an emptying device is inserted into the opening 7. The emptying device may for example substantially consist of an adapter which can be knocked into the opening 7 to be fluid-tight. A threaded coupling member 5 then is used for attachment of said emptying device to the canister 1 . The emptying device may be connected via a suction connector in the direction of the point of use.
In the embodiment shown in Figure 3 there is a gap between the rib 4 of the plastic container and the outer surface of the threaded cap nut 5 screwed to the neck 3. The distance between the rib 4 and the outer surface of the (first) threaded coupling member or threaded cap nut 5, when screwed on the neck is chosen to be from about 0.5 mm to about 5.0 mm, preferably from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm, more preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm, even further preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 1 .5 mm. The gap between the blocking rib and the outer surface of the threaded cap nut 5 screwed on the neck 3 provides a sufficient tolerance which avoids any contact between the plastic parts and thereby avoids plastic particles being scraped off which may contaminate the liquid product and damage downstream elements. Further, this gap facilitates screwing. Figure 4 shows a side view of the upper part of a (first) plastic container 1 as in Figure 1 , 2 and 3. The plastic container 1 comprises an integral rib 4 in the vicinity of the threaded neck 3 arranged in a defined distance from the same. The area of the neck is a cross-sectional view. In Figure 4 an alternative embodiment of the (first) threaded coupling member 5 is shown. In this alternative embodiment the threaded cap nut is an integral part of the emptying device 13 and denominated as integral threaded cap portion 5b. The emptying device 13 is shown in cross-sectional view. The emptying device 13 further comprises a dip tube 9 pointing into the interior of the canister 1 and a tube 10 extending in the direction of the point of use. The threaded cap portion 5b of the emptying device 13 is configured to be screwed on the neck 3 of the plastic container 1 thereby tightly fixing the emptying device 13 in its position. The threaded cap portion 5b has an appropriate outer circumference or radius, i.e. appropriate outer dimensions. Therefore, the integral rib 4 does not block but allows the application of this appropriate threaded cap portion 5b to the threaded neck 3. In Figure 4 a seal 1 1 is shown for sealing the opening when the emptying device 13 is in position. The threaded cap portion 5b comprises protrusions for gripping 5c.
The emptying device of any of the two embodiments mentioned comprises a dip tube pointing into the interior of the plastic container 1 and serves for emptying the plastic container 1 . Whereas for transport the plastic container 1 can be closed by way of a non-illustrated closure cap able to be tightly screwed onto the threaded neck 3. For emptying of the plastic container 1 either a separate emptying device is applied to the plastic container 1 by using the threaded cap nut 5 as fixing element as shown in Figures 2 and 3, or an emptying device 13 having an integral threaded cap portion 5b is applied to the plastic container 1 as shown in Figure 4. Further, either one of the two embodimewnts of the emtying device preferably has a degassing bore (not shown).
Figure 5 is a perspective view of the threaded cap nut 5 of Figures 2 and 3. The threaded cap nut 5 is designed for fixing a separate emptying device to the plastic container. The cap nut 5 comprises a through-hole 12 which allows that the tube of the emptying devise passes therethrough in the direction of the point of use. The threaded cap nut 5 comprises an outer rim 5a and protrusions for gripping 5c.
Reference list
1 first plastic container / canister
2 top wall
3 threaded neck
3a external thread
4 rib
5 threaded coupling member / threaded cap 5a outer rim
5b threaded cap portion of emptying device
5c protrusion for gripping
6 handle
7 opening
8 seat
9 dip tube
10 tube in direction to point of use
1 1 seal
12 through-hole
13 emptying device

Claims

Claims
1 . A kit or system or assembly comprising:
a) a first plastic container for holding fluids, comprising
i) a threaded neck projecting from a top wall of said plastic container, said threaded neck defining an opening;
ii) a lock and key device comprising one or more ribs integral with the first plastic container, said one or more ribs projecting from the outer surface of the top wall of the first plastic container;
and
b) a first threaded coupling member for coupling an emptying device to the first plastic container, wherein the first threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container;
and
c) optionally, a threaded closure cap for closing the opening of the first plastic container, wherein the threaded closure cap is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
2. The kit or system or assembly according to claim 1 , wherein
i) the first threaded coupling member comprising a threaded cap nut for fixing a separate emptying device having a suction lance to the first plastic container, wherein the threaded cap nut is configured to be screwed on the neck of the first plastic container; or
ii) the first threaded coupling member is represented by an emptying device having an integral threaded cap portion and having a suction lance, wherein the threaded cap portion is configured to be screwed on the neck of the first plastic container.
3. The kit or system or assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein in a) the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the neck is defining the maximum size or circumference of the threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap, to be screwed on the threaded neck.
4. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein in a) the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the neck is from about 0.5 cm to about 4.0 cm, preferably from about 0.5 cm to about 3.0 cm, more preferred from about 0.5 cm to about 2.0 cm, still more preferred from about 0.5 cm to about 1 .5 cm.
5. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each of the distances between each rib of the lock and key device and the neck is the same.
6. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the one or more ribs of the lock and key device are configured not to get into contact and/or are configured not to engage with the first threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap when screwed on the neck.
7. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the first threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap when screwed on the neck is from about 0.5 mm to about 5.0 mm, preferably from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm, more preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm, even further preferred from about 0.5 mm to about 1 .5 mm.
8. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the distance between said one or more ribs of the lock and key device and the neck is configured to block the threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap, from being screwed on the threaded neck, if said threaded coupling member and/or the threaded closure cap, has an outer circumference larger than the permissible predetermined size.
9. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the lock and key device comprises 2, 3, 4 or more ribs integral with the first plastic container, wherein the ribs are arranged around the neck and each rib is located with the same distance to the neck, preferably the angles between each rib and its respective adjacent rib are the same.
10. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the longitudinal axis of each rib coincides with the radius of the threaded neck.
1 1 . The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein in a) the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line.
12. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein in a) the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line, wherein said single-thread line is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis running through the center of the opening and through one of the one or more ribs.
13. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein in a) the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line, wherein said single-thread line is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis inclined at an angle of 60° or less, preferably of 30 °C or less in respect to the line or axis running through the center of the opening and through one of the one or more ribs.
14. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein in a) the lock and key device comprises one rib and wherein the threaded neck of the first plastic container comprises a single-thread line, wherein said single-thread line is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis running through the center of the opening and the rib or is starting at a position on the circumference of the neck where the circumference intersects a line or an axis inclined at an angle of 60° or less, preferably of 30 °C or less in respect to the line or axis running through the center of the opening and through the rib.
15. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein in a) the lock and key device comprises one rib and wherein said one rib is arranged in the line of symmetry of the first plastic container.
16. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein in a) the neck comprises an unthreaded portion along the line of symmetry of the first plastic container.
17. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the rib or ribs has/have completely or partly circular shape which circular shape is parallel to the annular neck.
18. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the lock and key device comprises one rib integral with the first plastic container, wherein said rib has completely or partly circular shape which circular shape is parallel to the circular neck, and wherein the dimension of the rib corresponds to an angle of at least 20°, at least 45°, at least 75°, at least 90°, at least 120°, at least 180°, at least 270° or 360°, wherein the vertex of said angle coincides with the center of the annular neck.
19. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the lock and key device comprises one rib integral with the first plastic container, wherein said rib has a partly circular shape parallel to the circular neck.
20. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein in c) the outer circumference of the threaded closure cap is having a size not larger than the size permitted by the lock and key device.
21 . The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein in c) the threaded closure cap for closing the opening of the first plastic container has an outer circumference which does not result in a blockage of screwing said threaded closure cap on the threaded neck.
22. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 21 , wherein in b) the outer circumference of the first threaded coupling member is having a size not larger than the size permitted by the lock and key device.
23. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein in b) the first threaded coupling member has an outer circumference which does not result in a blockage of screwing said threaded cap nut on the threaded neck.
24. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 23, further comprising
- a second plastic container for holding fluids, said second plastic container comprising a threaded neck projecting from a top wall of said second plastic container, said threaded neck defining an opening;
and
- a second threaded coupling member for coupling an emptying device to the second plastic container, wherein the second threaded coupling member is configured to be screwed on the threaded neck of the second plastic container and can not be screwed on the threaded neck of the first plastic container.
25. The kit or system or assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the first plastic container is filled with a cleaning composition.
26. The kit or system or assembly according to claim 24, wherein the first plastic container is filled with a cleaning composition and the second plastic container is filled with a disinfecting composition.
PCT/EP2016/050214 2016-01-07 2016-01-07 Assembly comprising a plastic container for holding fluids, comprising a lock and key device WO2017118483A1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2016/050214 WO2017118483A1 (en) 2016-01-07 2016-01-07 Assembly comprising a plastic container for holding fluids, comprising a lock and key device
EP16700331.8A EP3400174B1 (en) 2016-01-07 2016-01-07 Assembly comprising a plastic container for holding fluids, comprising a lock and key device

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/EP2016/050214 WO2017118483A1 (en) 2016-01-07 2016-01-07 Assembly comprising a plastic container for holding fluids, comprising a lock and key device

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2017118483A1 true WO2017118483A1 (en) 2017-07-13

Family

ID=55085650

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/EP2016/050214 WO2017118483A1 (en) 2016-01-07 2016-01-07 Assembly comprising a plastic container for holding fluids, comprising a lock and key device

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EP (1) EP3400174B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2017118483A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN109424814A (en) * 2017-08-28 2019-03-05 德国诺玛公司 Coupled lines device and container with coupled lines device

Citations (3)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1997021596A1 (en) * 1995-12-14 1997-06-19 Castrol Limited Drum
US6543654B1 (en) 1998-08-26 2003-04-08 Ecolab Gmbh & Co. Ohg Device for emptying containers filled with liquids
WO2013149263A1 (en) * 2012-03-30 2013-10-03 Portable Anesthesia Solutions Llc Liquid inhalational anesthetic container

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1997021596A1 (en) * 1995-12-14 1997-06-19 Castrol Limited Drum
US6543654B1 (en) 1998-08-26 2003-04-08 Ecolab Gmbh & Co. Ohg Device for emptying containers filled with liquids
WO2013149263A1 (en) * 2012-03-30 2013-10-03 Portable Anesthesia Solutions Llc Liquid inhalational anesthetic container

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN109424814A (en) * 2017-08-28 2019-03-05 德国诺玛公司 Coupled lines device and container with coupled lines device
US11248728B2 (en) 2017-08-28 2022-02-15 Norma Germany Gmbh Line coupling and container having the same

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3400174C0 (en) 2023-07-26
EP3400174A1 (en) 2018-11-14
EP3400174B1 (en) 2023-07-26

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