WO2022029110A1

WO2022029110A1 - Multipart closure

Info

Publication number: WO2022029110A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/071644
Authority: WO
Inventors: Peter Gonnert
Original assignee: Rosti Group AB
Priority date: 2020-08-03
Filing date: 2021-08-03
Publication date: 2022-02-10
Also published as: DE102020120441A1

Abstract

A multi-part closure is proposed, which comprises a lower part (2) with a flat support (21) and a neck (22) integrally arranged thereon, which has a neck opening (23), a locking ring (24) surrounding the neck (22) and a first locking element (25) formed between a neck opening (23) and the locking ring (24. A rotary closure (3) is provided with a locking ring (31) and with a closure cap (33) attached to the locking ring via a hinge (32), wherein the locking ring (31) is rotatably supported by the rast ring (24), and wherein the closure cap (33) comprises at least a second locking element (34) which, in a closed state, cooperates with the at least one first locking element (25) in order to close the neck opening (23) with the closure cap (33) in a liquid-tight manner and, in the closed state, a rotation of the rotary closure (3) about the neck (22) in a first direction causes the rotary closure to open.

Description

MULTIPART CLOSURE

The patent application claims the priority of the German application DE 10 2020 120 441 . 8 of August 3 , 2020 , the disclosure content of which is hereby incorporated by reference .

BACKGROUND

Liquids , especially drinkable perishable liquids , can be stored in PET bottles and cardboard containers in addition to glass bottles . In some respects , the latter have a smaller ecological footprint and can also be at least partially recycled, for example . Different closures are used to seal the packaging . In order to further reduce the ecological footprint , there is therefore a need for various improvements which, on the one hand, reduce the amount of material used and, on the other hand, also improve recyclability . This applies not only to the cardboard and the packaging as such, but also to the closures .

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A multi-part closure is proposed herein, which is provided, inter alia , for aseptic packages , said packages containing a liquid, in particular a refrigerated drinkable and perishable liquid . Here , an aseptic package is particularly treated, for example particularly sterilized . Likewise , the drinkable liquid may also be treated so that the minimum shelf life is significantly extended compared to non-aseptic packages . The liquid is filled into the package under a sterile environment and the package is then sealed . The packaging , for example a cardboard packaging, is , among other things , largely light- and gas-tight ( especially against oxygen ) , so that the liquid remains sterile for a longer period of time and no or hardly any oxidation or other chemical processes take place due to penetrating gas .

In one aspect , the multi-part closure includes a base having a planar support and a neck integrally disposed thereon . The neck may also be referred to as a collar . The neck includes a neck opening, a locking ring surrounding the neck, and at least a first locking member . The latter is formed between a neck opening and the snap ring . In addition, a rotatably mounted cutting ring is provided in the neck and has at least one driving element at its end facing the neck opening and is designed to convert a rotation relative to the neck into a translatory movement .

The multi-part closure further comprises a twist-lock closure having a locking ring and having a closure cap attached to the locking ring by a hinge . The locking ring is at least partially disposed between the support and the locking ring around the neck, and in such a manner that it is rotatably but nonetheless non-releasably retained around the neck . The term "non-detachable " shall hereinafter be understood to mean a cooperation between 2 elements which can only be detached from at least one element by exerting great force or by damaging or destroying it .

According to the proposed principle , the closure cap comprises at least one driving element and at least one second locking element . The entrainment element is adapted, in the closed state , to cooperate with the at least one entrainment element upon a first rotation of the rotary closure through a first angle to cause rotation of the cutting ring . This allows the package to be cut open by the cutting ring .

The at least one second locking element is in turn designed to cooperate with the at least one first locking element during a second rotation of the rotary closure following the first rotation in such a way that the rotary movement is converted into a translatory movement of the closure cap for opening the multi-part closure .

According to the invention, this creates a closure that divides the opening procedure into two separate steps . On the one hand, when the package is rotated for opening , the cutting ring is first used to cut the package , thus creating an opening in the interior of the package . However, the closure is still closed during this process . The closure is not opened until a further rotation, i . e . by a further angle , for example . This separation not only enables permanent aseptic packaging, but also reduces the ris k of waste , incomplete cutting or accidental spillage .

In one aspect , in a closed state , the first locking member cooperates with the at least one first locking member such that the neck opening is closed with the closure cap in a fluid-tight manner . Further, the rotary closure is configured such that in the closed state , rotation of the rotary closure about the neck in a first direction causes the rotary closure to open . With the proposed multi-part closure , it is achieved that with this closure , even after opening and closing a container several times , all elements of the twist closure remain coupled to the lower part , thus enabling easier disposal together with the packaging . Since the closure cap remains coupled to the lower part , both elements can be disposed of together . The closure according to the invention may be placed on and sealed to an aseptic carton package . However, the closure can also be placed on or used together with a foil pouch . Likewise , both liquids and solids such as powders and granules can be poured through the closure . The multi-part closure is thus suitable for a wide range of aseptic paper- or plastic-based packages , as well as for different fillers

In one aspect , to indicate both inadvertent opening of the closure and inadvertent cutting, a cutting indicator ring is provided around the neck and coupled to the closure cap or to the retaining ring via connecting webs . The cutting indicator ring is configured to separate the connecting webs upon the first rotation of the rotary closure through the first angle , thereby indicating a cutting movement of the cutting ring into the package . This provides a safeguard and a visible indication of whether the aseptic condition has been broken or violated . When the cutting ring is moved, the connecting bars on the cutting indicator ring separate .

To this end, in one aspect , a sectional thickening may be provided at a base of the neck, i . e . , at the lower end, the cutting indicator ring comprising at least one protrusion facing the neck such that the at least one sectional thickening cooperates with the protrusion to separate the connecting webs upon the first rotation . Alternatively or additionally, the neck may also comprise at least one cutting ring portion disposed between the retaining ring and the cutting indicator ring and configured to separate the connecting webs upon the first rotation of the rotary closure through the first angle . In either case , an embodiment on the neck causes separation of the cutting indicator ring from the retaining ring during the first rotation of the rotary closure .

In one aspect , the locking ring is connected to the closure cap via a plurality of connecting webs forming predetermined breaking points so that visual evidence of opening of the closure is thereby effected . In addition, in order to couple the locking ring securely and in particular non-detachably in the above sense to the lower part , in one aspect it may be provided that the locking ring is designed with its side facing the planar support substantially parallel to the support . The side facing away from the planar support may be oblique to the support . Thus , the parallel side of the detent ring provides an effective boundary for the retaining ring and prevents stripping or generally displacement of the ring in the direction of the neck opening, the so-called z-direc- tion . There may be sufficient space between the support and the locking ring so that the locking ring has a slight play in the z-direction . As a result , the retaining ring can be rotated but is still not mounted so that it can be displaced .

In a further aspect , the retaining ring comprises a plurality of retaining elements configured to substantially non-releasably retain the retaining ring about the neck in cooperation with the detent ring . The retaining elements may be pivotally attached to the retaining ring at one end and have their other end facing the side of the detent ring facing the planar support . Optionally, a pivot axis of the retaining elements may face the flat support . In intended use , in particular during manufacture , the retaining ring is pushed over the snap ring from the neck opening, so that the retaining elements are first pressed against the retaining ring by the snap ring , and once the retaining ring has been pushed completely over the snap ring , snap into place along the side facing the support .

In a further aspect , the first locking element has at least one externally threaded segment having a first pitch . The second locking element has at least one internally threaded segment having a second pitch . The first pitch and the second pitch may be different , in particular the second pitch is slightly less than the first pitch, so that a force is exerted on the closure cap in the closed state due to the interlocking of the threads , which closes the neck opening with the closure cap in a fluid-tight manner .

Alternatively, the at least one first locking member may comprise an externally threaded segment and the at least one second locking member may comprise an internally threaded segment , the internally threaded segment being disposed substantially opposite the hinge .

For a single male thread, the length may also be 0 . 8 to 1 . 8 times a neck circumference . Similarly, a length of the internal thread may be substantially 0 . 33 to 0 . 66 times , particularly in the range of 0 . 55 to 0 . 65 times , a circumference of the inside of the closure cap on which the internal thread is located . Generally, the length and the pitch are selected such that the force generated by the threads in the closed state effectively closes the opening .

In a further aspect , the one first locking element comprises at least one connecting external threaded segment that adj oins the at least one external threaded segment and is configured to guide the at least one internal threaded segment into the external threaded segment during a rotational movement of the closure cap . This facilitates "gripping" of the internally threaded segment during closure of the opening by the closure . For this purpose , it may be provided that a pitch height of the connection external thread segment is different from first pitch height , in particular larger than the first pitch height . In this context , the first pitch height , i . e . the pitch height of the externally threaded segment may be substantially 0 at least in sections , in particular in an end section . As a result , the shutter would not move translationally for the first time during a rotation . This is expedient , since the initial rotary movement is also intended to move the cutting ring for the time being, but not yet to open the closure .

For example , the pitch of the connection external thread segment can correspond to the second pitch, i . e . the pitch of the internal thread segment . Alternatively, the pitch of the connection external thread segment can change . This can also improve gripping and guiding of the internally threaded segment and give the user a sense of when the fastener is "gripping" during the rotation process . The position of the externally threaded segment with pitch 0 or substantially 0 on the neck is selected so that the externally threaded segment and internally threaded segment are under tension, so that the closure cap is thereby pressed onto the neck opening, causing it to close in a liquid-tight manner .

For further improvement of a haptic impression and to prevent unintentional opening, a latching cam can be provided near the respective end in the external thread segment . This is designed to engage in a notch in the internal thread in a closed state of the closure cap . On the one hand, this provides the user with a haptic feedback indicating "closure" , and on the other hand it prevents unintentional opening . Alternatively, the latching cam can also be located on the female thread and the indentation on the male thread segment .

Another aspect relates to the tailoring ring and embodiments thereof . In one embodiment , a female neck thread is disposed in the neck and has a third pitch . The tailoring ring in turn comprises an external tailoring ring thread having substantially the same pitch . A length of the internal neck thread and/or the external tailoring ring thread may be 0 . 7 to 1 . 8 times a neck circumference . In addition, the internal neck thread and the external tailoring ring thread may be singlestart , double-start , or triple-start . This allows the rotation distance to be adj usted until the tailoring ring cuts into the package . In one practical embodiment , the female neck thread is double-start .

In a further aspect , the third pitch is greater than the first pitch . Alternatively or additionally, the female neck thread may have a reverse pitch with respect to the male thread segment or the male connection thread segment with respect to a predetermined direction of rotation . In other words , a rotation that ultimately opens the closure causes the cutting ring to move in the direction toward the package due to the internal neck thread having opposite handedness . For example , the male thread segment on the neck may be right-handed and that female neck thread may be left-handed . Reverse threads are also possible . In one embodiment , a detent cam is provided in an end section of the female neck thread, in which a detent notch of the male cutting ring thread engages . Alternatively, the detent notch can be arranged on the female neck thread and the detent cam on the male tailoring ring thread . This prevents unintentional rotation of the closure , and a rotary movement for cutting the package is only possible after this retainer consisting of the detent cam and notch has been overcome .

In another aspect , the at least one driving element is arranged inside the cutting ring and the at least one driving element engages inside the cutting ring . Two entrainment elements and two entrainment elements each may be provided, wherein the two entrainment elements are arranged opposite each other , and in particular lie symmetrically about an axis through the hinge and the center of the closure cap .

In one aspect , the driver element has a fin shape and has a substantially vertical side facing the driver element and a beveled side facing away from the driver element . The angles with respect to a horizontal are different . The driving element thus has the shape of a triangle with two legs of different lengths . In one embodiment , at least three cutting elements are provided on the cutting ring , the cutting edges of which lie in a direction of rotation of the first rotation and are arranged at an angle ( a) with respect to a horizontal . A recess can be arranged between two cutting elements , the sides of which are in particular of different lengths .

In another aspect , the sealing of the closure cap relates to achieving and maintaining the fluid seal . In one aspect , the closure cap comprises a sealing ring that engages the neck opening in a fluid-tight manner when the closure cap is in a closed state . To this end, in embodiments , an outer diameter of the sealing ring may be slightly larger than the neck opening . The neck opening may further have an inwardly curved tab that is flexibly configured to fully engage us do with the sealing ring .

In some aspects , in order to avoid becoming entangled when the neck opening is opened and closed by means of the closure cap, it is pro- vided that the sealing ring has a height that also increases with increasing distance from the hinge . In other words , the height of the sealing ring is not the same , but changes depending on the position and distance from the hinge . The height of the sealing ring is understood to be the distance from the base of the ring on the closure cap to the lower edge of the ring , which extends furthest into the neck when closed . Thus , in some aspects , the sealing ring is configured such that , with respect to a cross-section along a plane passing through the hinge and the center of the closure cap, a portion of the sealing ring facing the hinge has a lower height than a portion of the sealing ring facing away from the hinge . The different height results in an angle along this cross-section with respect to an axis parallel to the closure cap that is in the range of 1 . 5 ° to 5 ° , in particular about 1 . 7 ° to 2 . 3 ° .

In another aspect , a side of the sealing ring facing the neck opening is shorter than an inner side of the sealing ring . This ensures that the sealing ring sweeps along the neck opening during closure , so that a seal is achieved, particularly with the different radii of the ring and neck opening . At the same time , the sealing ring is prevented from becoming entangled during closure .

Other aspects relate to the hinge , which in one embodiment comprises a butterfly hinge . In some aspects , the hinge comprises a flexible j oint disposed between the retaining ring and the closure cap, which in particular is made integrally with the retaining ring and the closure cap . This allows the rotary closure to be manufactured in an inj ection molding process , in particular using the same materials for the individual elements of the closure . The hinge may comprise a first hinge tab forming part of the retaining ring . A second hinge tab in turn forms part of the closure cap, the hinge being located between the two tabs . In the area of the hinge , the securing ring or , more precisely, the first hinge tab can thus also be arranged above the locking ring , this aspect also contributes to improved opening and closing and reduces the ris k of j amming during closing .

In a further aspect , the hinge is configured to hold the closure cap in an open state at an angle of at least 90 ° rotated about the hinge in a closed state, and in particular in the range of 115° to 145°, but more particularly greater than 120° rotated about the hinge. In other words, the hinge is designed to exert a force on the closure cap when a defined position is exceeded after a rotation by the hinge angle, so that this closure cap cannot be rotated back beyond this position without additional force. This ensures that the closure cap remains open in such an open state and does not unintentionally rotate back, for example, when pouring a liquid from the carton package. In one aspect, the hinge may comprise at least one snap element for this purpose, which is configured to hold the closure cap above a predefined angle of rotation of the closure cap about the flexible joint when this angle of rotation is exceeded. This rotation can be in the range of 80° to 100° and in particular around 90° . If the cap is rotated beyond this angle, the cap snaps open and holds in the opened state.

In one embodiment, the snap element is attached to the retaining ring. To this end, in some aspects, the at least one snap element may be disposed in a recess of the locking ring, and an axis of rotation of the flexible joint extends above said recess. The at least one snap element may be biased such that an open condition of the locking cap represents a relaxed condition relative to the biased condition. In this regard, the closed state may also represent a relaxed state. The snap element may thus be configured such that during opening, i.e., rotational movement of the closure cap about the joint, it becomes increasingly under tension up to a limit point corresponding to the position described above. When this point is exceeded, the snap element snaps back into a relaxed state, causing the closure cap to remain open. This effect can be achieved by an element under tension.

In order to avoid misalignment during a closure or, more precisely, a reclosure, the axis of rotation of the flexible joint may be closer to a plane spanned by the neck opening than the first and second locking elements. In other words, the joint (as viewed from the support) is thus above or at least level with the first or second locking element. In one aspect, the flexible joint extends at a level of a lower edge of the sealing ring, that is, at the level of the edge of the sealing ring facing the support. In one embodiment , the neck opening has a smaller outer diameter than a neck base , particularly in the area of the retaining ring . In addition, in some aspects , the closure cap can include corrugation on its circumferential side flank with vertically extending ridges . This allows the closure cap to be more easily gripped and a user to better control the force applied to the cap . In addition, the number of ridges per unit length can vary . Thus , the haptic impression further facilitates use .

Another aspect relates to the manufacture and embodiment of the rotary closure . In one aspect , the same is integrally formed and comprises a closure cap coupled to a retaining ring via first breakaway coupling webs . The retaining ring is in turn coupled to a cutting indicator ring via second breakaway connecting webs . In one aspect , the breakaway force that must be applied to separate the first breakaway connecting webs is different than the breakaway force that must be applied to separate the second breakaway connecting webs . With this embodiment , a two-stage separation process can be realized, such that in one aspect , the locking ring is configured to indicate a first tamper band function and the cutting indicator ring is configured to indicate a second tamper band function .

The first tamper band function can indicate an opening of the closure cap . This makes it clear to a user that the closure has been opened . The second tamper band function can indicate a compromise of an aseptic barrier . This indicates to a user that an aseptic barrier of a package to which the rotary closure is coupled may be damaged or destroyed .

In one aspect , the number of second breakaway connecting webs is evenly distributed around the circumference . In another aspect , the first connecting webs are also uniformly distributed around the hinge . In one aspect , the number of second connecting webs is in the range of 4 to 8 , preferably 8 . In another aspect , the number of first connecting webs is in the range of 2 to 6 , lower preferably 4 . In one aspect , the number may be odd, wherein one connecting web of the first connecting webs faces the hinge . In another aspect, the size of the connecting webs may be different. In one aspect, a side of the second connecting webs facing the cutting indicator ring may be wider and the second connecting webs taper toward the locking ring. In a similar aspect, the first connecting webs may be configured, i.e., they are widest at the closure cap and taper toward the retaining ring. Alternatively, the width of the first and/or second connecting webs may be widest at the locking ring and these may taper towards the cutting indicator ring or the closure cap. "Tapering" in this context means that the connecting webs become narrower. In one aspect, this taper is linear, and the connecting webs may thus have the shape of an isosceles trapezoid. The taper may also follow a curve and thus be more neck-shaped.

In another aspect, the retaining ring is provided. In one aspect, the retaining ring has a retaining element on the inside. This comprises an extension via which the retaining element is connected to the retaining ring. The projection is spaced from the edge of the retaining ring facing the cutting indicator ring. In one aspect, the distance may be about 0.7 to 1.5 of a height of the second connecting webs, and in particular may be in the range between 0.9 times to 1.1 times the height of the second connecting webs. A thickness of the lug may likewise be in the range of 0.15 to 0.9 times a height of the second connecting webs. In one aspect, the retaining member has a plurality of rib-like members extending inwardly. Adjacent rib-shaped elements are connected to each other by a thin material-shaped bridge. The ribshaped elements may be semi-circular or semi-elliptical in shape.

Thus, they also form a substantially smooth surface on the side of the material bridge.

In one aspect, the cutting indicator ring, which functions as a tamper band, includes a plurality of protrusions on its inner surface. In one aspect, these may be spaced from the respective edge of the cutting indicator ring. The protrusions are arcuately configured, that is, they taper with increasing distance from the base on the cutting indicator ring. The multiple protrusions are arranged symmetrically on the inside of the cutting indicator ring and are spaced apart from each other. The spacing may be approximately equal to the length of the protrusion . For example , four protrusions can be provided, the length of which corresponds approximately to 1/ 8 of the circumference of the cutting indicator ring .

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The various aspects of the invention are further explained in detail with reference to several embodiments . Thus show now :

Figure la first embodiment of a multi-part closure according to the proposed principle in a closed state ;

Figure 2 the multi-part closure on an aseptic carton pack in an opened and unfolded state to illustrate some aspects ;

Figure 3 shows the multi-part closure again in an opened and unfolded state ;

Figures 4A to 4C various side views of the multi-part closure in a closed state according to the preceding embodiment ;

Figures 5A to 5D various cross-sectional views of elements of the multi-part closure in a closed state ;

Figures 6A to 6E various side views of the multi-part closure during cutting , opening and in an unfolded state to illustrate some aspects ;

Figure 7 a bottom view of the multi-part closure to illustrate some aspects ;

Figures 8A to 8E various cross-sectional views of the multi-part closure during cutting, opening and in an unfolded state to illustrate some aspects ;

Figures 9A to 9C respectively a cross-sectional view of the closure cap according to the proposed principle in the inj ection-molded state and in the assembled state .

It goes without saying that the individual aspects of the embodiments shown in the above figures can be readily combined without contradicting the principle of the invention . The individual figures and aspects are not necessarily of the correct size , but the proportions between individual elements should be substantially correct . In particular, terms such as "above" , "above" "below" , "below" "larger" , "smaller" and the like are correctly represented with respect to the elements in the figures . In this respect , it is possible to infer such relationships between elements based on the figures .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figures 1 and 2 show a multi-part closure in closed and opened condition for an aseptic carton or carton packaging according to the proposed principle . The multi-part closure is produced during manufacture by means of an inj ection molding process from 3 parts , a lower part 2 , a twist closure 3 and a cutting ring not shown in this view . Subsequently, for example , the lower part can be welded or glued onto the possibly already filled cardboard packaging over the opening of the cardboard packaging to be cut later . The opening is therefore not yet present so that the aseptic barrier is intact . The cutting ring is inserted into the rotary closure and correctly positioned there . The twist-off cap is then applied to the liquid-filled cardboard packaging in a final step . Alternatively, the lower part and the twist closure can also be placed on top of each other in advance and then the multi-part closure is sealed to the packaging over the opening of the carton packaging .

The multi-part closure comprises a lower part with a flat support 1 . In the present embodiment , the support 1 is circular, but it can also have a different shape . A neck 22 ( shown in Figure 2 ) is arranged in one piece on the flat support 1 .

Furthermore , the multi-part closure also comprises a rotary closure 3 with a closure cap 33 , a retaining ring 31 and a cutting indicator ring 310 . The retaining ring 31 and the closure cap 33 are connected to each other by a hinge 32 . In addition, connecting webs are provided between the retaining ring 31 and the closure cap . Similar connecting webs are also provided between the cutting indicator ring 310 and the locking ring . Thus , cutting indicator ring 310 is detachably attached to retaining ring 31 . In this embodiment , the cutting indicator ring 310 is smaller , i . e . has a lower height than the retaining ring . In addition, there are fewer connecting webs , as these are only intended to indicate cutting ( i . e . act as tamper protection ) , but cannot also act as protection against opening, as is the case with the retaining ring, or should do so to a small extent .

The rotary closure 3 with its elements is also designed in one piece and, for example , like the lower part , is manufactured by means of inj ection molding . In the perspective view shown here , the retaining ring 31 further comprises a hinge lug 315 to which a j oint of the closure 32 is directly molded . The hinge is in turn connected to a second hinge lug 315 , which forms part of the closure cap 33 . A corrugation 9 is also provided on the closure cap, which firstly provides visual feedback to a user and secondly serves to improve gripping for a rotational movement to open or close the closure cap 33 . The visual and haptic feedback is provided, for example , by the slightly different corrugation ( as shown ) indicating to a user a suitable grip position for opening and closing the closure cap . In addition, in some embodiments , material can be saved by using different corrugation .

In the opened state of Figure 2 , further elements of the multi-part closure become visible . For example , the neck 22 arranged on the flat support 1 comprises an opening 23 with an inwardly folded flexible tab 230 . Furthermore , on the outside of the neck 22 , in this embodiment , an external thread with an external thread segment 250 is arranged as a first locking element 25 . Individual aspects of this locking element will be further referred to in the following figures . An internal neck thread is visible on the inside of the neck 22 . In an end portion of the internal neck thread 220 , a detent cam ( not shown) is provided, in which a detent notch 622 ( see Figure 4C ) of the external tailoring ring thread 605 engages . The thread engagement of the external thread on the neck 250 , 251 is opposed to the thread engagement of the external thread on the neck 250 , 251 and will be explained in detail .

The rotary closure 3 is again arranged with its lower part between the surface of the support 21 and a detent ring 24 . Rastring 24 is part of neck 22 . Here , retaining ring 31 and rastring 24 are designed in such a way that the retaining ring is held freely rotatable between rastring and support , yet cannot be moved beyond the rastring . In this respect , the retaining ring 31 is thus restricted in movement in the z-direction, i . e . towards the neck opening 23 . The retaining ring is smooth, i . e . in contrast to the closure cap it does not have any ribbing . On the one hand, this saves material and, on the other, indicates a visual separation between the closure cap and the retaining ring .

Closure cap 33 includes a second locking element 34 on its inner side in the form of a threaded segment 340 . A latching cam 355 ( see Figure 3 ) is arranged at one end of each internally threaded segment , the functionality of which is explained below . In addition, the locking cap 33 includes a sealing ring 36 and two driver elements 380 .

In the embodiment shown here in Figure 2 , the internally threaded segment 340 is located on the inside of the closure cap, which is opposite the hinge 32 . The internally threaded segment 340 engages the corresponding externally threaded segment 250 when the rotary closure 3 is rotated about the neck 22 or the neck opening 23 , so that the sealing ring 36 and the neck opening 23 effect a fluid-tight connection .

In the example of Figure 2 , the multi-part closure is placed on the top of an aseptic carton container or carton packaging and welded or glued to it via the support 21 . Various colored elements may be applied to the cardboard packaging which, in addition to aesthetic considerations , may possibly indicate to the user the direction of rotation for opening and/or closing . The size of the carton opening and thus the size of the closure can be adapted to the size of the aseptic carton packaging and can be freely selected . The same applies to the folding of the carton package , its shape and design . In some embodiments , the package is in the form of a forked carton ( see Figure 2 ) , which can be used to take pressure off the closure when multiple carton packages are stacked on top of each other . In addition, the tab indicates the direction of discharge . In this context , the closure with its lower part is then also attached to the carton in such a way that the closure cap can be fully opened in the direction of the carton packaging flap .

Figure 3 again shows the multi-part closure in its unfolded state .

It can be seen that the connecting webs of the cutting indicator ring 310 to the retaining ring 31 are broken, so that a small gap is created between them. This indicates that an opening is present in the package and thus an aseptic barrier has been breached . In addition, the external thread 25 includes an externally threaded segment 250 which is connected to a connection externally threaded segment 251 . The externally threaded segment 250 runs substantially parallel to an upper surface of the neck opening, and thus exhibits little or no pitch . In contrast , the connection external thread segment 251 has a larger pitch and runs from the connection thread segment 250 in the direction of the neck opening , where it widens again in an initial area . This initial region 251 serves to grip the female threaded segment 340 during a closure of the multipart closure . An edge of the externally threaded segment 250a simultaneously acts as a bearing surface for the internally threaded segment when the closure cap 33 has folded down, in order to then enter the initial region 251 in a clockwise rotational movement . Thereafter, the internally threaded segment is engaged by the connecting external segment 251 and guided into the segment 250 . Thus , upon a clockwise rotation, a translational movement of the closure cap is caused by the connection outer segment 251 . Upon further rotation, the inner segment 340 follows the male threaded segment 250 . At the end of the male threaded segment 250 , there is a detent notch not shown here in which the detent cam 355 engages , snapping into place and thus indicating to a user a tactical impression of a complete closure of the neck opening .

Figures 4A to 4C show a side view of the multi-part closure or parts thereof and cross-sectional views available therefor . Figure 4A shows the lower part with the flat support 21 and the neck 22 integrally requested thereon . The neck 22 has a lower section, the end of which is embossed by the locking ring 24 . Adj acent to the support surface , a plurality of sectional protrusions 322 are provided . Both elements act on the cutting indicator ring in such a way that the connecting webs between the cutting indicator ring and the locking ring are separated when the cutting indicator ring ( together with the locking ring and the closure cap ) is rotated .

The detent ring 24 has a relatively large retention area on its side facing the bearing surface 21 , as indicated in cross-section in Figure 3C, for example . The retaining elements 311 of the retaining ring 31 can thus engage in this retaining area or on the underside of the retaining ring 24 . Towards the neck opening 23 , the detent ring 24 is designed with an inclined surface .

Neck 22 further includes an externally threaded segment 250 disposed circumferentially about the neck . The externally threaded segment 250 is substantially parallel to the locking ring 24 or neck opening 23 , and exhibits little or no pitch . The parallel arrangement operates the tailoring ring, and thus cuts an opening in the package . In the present embodiment , there is only one segment , but depending on the size of the closure , there may be two .

Figure 4B shows the side view of the multi-part closure in its closed form. The rotary closure 3 is applied to the neck 22 and simultaneously closed . For this purpose , the retaining ring 31 and the cutting indicator ring 310 comprise a plurality of connecting webs , not shown or visible here , with which the closure cap 33 is held on the retaining ring 31 before being opened for the first time . The cutting indicator ring 310 is in turn held on the retaining ring . Retaining ring 31 also shows a hinge tab 315 on its right side which, in direct comparison with Figure 4B , rises above the detent ring and forms part of the hinge . Closure cap 33 also includes fluting 9 , which comprises a plurality of vertical ridges extending around closure cap 33 , but the density of which is variable . This can be used, for example , to visually indicate a grip position to the user .

Figure 4C shows a side view of the cutting ring 60 . The cutting ring 60 has an external thread 605 in its upper area , which in the present embodiment is designed with two threads . Likewise , two upwardly proj ecting driving elements 610 are arranged on the inner side of the cutting ring . The two driving elements 610 are opposite each other so that they are gripped by the driving elements 380 ( not shown here ) during a subsequent opening process . At its lower end, the cutting ring comprises a plurality of cutting elements 606 arranged in a triangular shape . These comprise a longitudinal cutting edge 608 , and a shorter side 609 which is not suitable for cutting . The cutting edge 608 is arranged in the direction of rotation, so that when the cutting ring is rotated during the opening process , the cutting edge penetrates the package , thereby opening it . The triangular-shaped cutting elements 606 are not isosceles , i . e . their two respective legs 608 or 609 are not of equal length . Likewise , an angle ashown here in Figure C between a horizontal cutting edge and the cutting edge is formed to a different degree .

This means that the angle between the cutting edge 608 and the horizontal line shown is smaller than a corresponding angle between the edge 609 and the horizontal line . Furthermore , a recess 607 is arranged between two cutting elements 606 . This U-shaped recess 607 creates a gap between two adj acent cutting elements and is bounded on its sides by two vertical surfaces . The surface adj acent to the side edge 609 is shorter than the corresponding edge length of the side 607 , the latter being adj acent to the cutting edge 608 . As a result , the legs of the U- shaped recess 607 have different lengths . The recess is thus asymmetrical . The longer side is thereby assigned to the cutting edge 608 of a respective cutting element . This asymmetry ensures clean cutting into the package and clean separation of the package during an opening process , without a package remnant becoming entangled and a cutting ring becoming stuck .

Figures 5A to 5D show cross-sectional views of the various elements in detail and in the assembled state . Figure 5A represents a cross-sectional view of the multi-part closure , which in this case shows the closed condition . The tailoring ring 60 is arranged within the neck and engages with its external thread 605 in the corresponding internal neck thread 220 of the neck . In this case , the internal neck thread has a height that is opposite to the pitch of the external neck thread 250 . This has the effect ( explained in detail in Figures 6 and 8 ) that when the closure or closure cap 33 is rotated to open it , the tailoring ring is moved in the opposite direction and thus downwards . Thus , when the closure is opened, the cutting ring is first moved downwardly, so as to split the package and create an opening . For this purpose , the driving element 610 of the cutting ring 60 is arranged next to a driving element 380 of the closure cap 33 .

The locking cap is attached to the locking ring via a hinge 32 with a j oint 335 . The hinge 32 , in particular the flexible j oint 335 , is arranged above the locking elements 251 or 250. In this context, above means that the distance to the bearing surface 21 is greater than the distance of the corresponding locking element to the bearing surface 21.

Closure cap 33 further comprises a sealing ring 36, which in cross- sectional view has a first region 36a facing away from hinge joint 335. A second region 36b in turn faces the hinge 32 and the hinge joint. The sealing ring 36 thereby engages the neck or neck opening 23 such that the tab 230 of the neck is under pressure and is arched downward slightly by the sealing ring 36. This provides a fluid tight seal between the cap or sealing ring and the tab of the neck opening.

Furthermore, it is shown that the area 36a facing away from the hinge joint 335 is slightly larger in length than the area 36b facing the hinge joint 335. Sealing ring 36 thus has a different height, which increases starting from hinge joint 335. In other words, the height of the sealing ring is smallest in the region of the hinge joint 335 and increases with increasing distance. An angle spanned in this embodiment between the lower edge of the region 36a and the lower edge of the region 36b with respect to a plane parallel to the support surface 21 comprises about 2 to 3°, in the specific embodiment example about 2.7° . This angle can also be larger, i.e. the "height difference" in this sectional view can be larger. However, it should be at least 1.5° in order to avoid misjudgment. It should also be mentioned that a large height difference may not mean any improvement in terms of opening and closing, but additional material must be used. A range of 1.5° to about 4° has proven to be a good compromise for the intended opening. In this context, it should be mentioned that the angle also depends on the size of the opening and the distance between the hinge and the opening. The smaller the distance, the larger the angle should be. the same applies to the height of the hinge relative to the top edge of the neck opening. If the hinge is at the same height or slightly above, the angle can be smaller or even 0° . The further below the hinge is in relation to the upper edge of the neck opening, the larger the angle should be.

The position of the flexible joint relative to the sealing ring and the external thread 250/251 allows the closure cap to be unfolded in a simple manner after an opening and also to be folded closed again without the sealing ring 36 becoming entangled in the neck opening 23 . In particular, it is also ensured that the lower region of the sealing ring engages in the neck opening at the same time in each case during closing or comes to rest on the neck opening during closing .

A second feature of the sealing ring is the shape of the lower edge , which is beveled as shown, for example , in Figures 5A, 5C and 8D . In other words , an outer side surface of the sealing ring is slightly smaller than the inner side surface , resulting in an outward bevel . As a result , the sealing ring sweeps over the neck opening 23 when folded in . The contact of the tab 230 of the neck opening and the lower end of the sealing ring at these beveled surfaces can be clearly seen in Figure 8D . In addition, to provide a liquid-tight seal for the rotary closure , the diameter of the sealing ring 36 is formed to be slightly larger than the corresponding diameter of the neck opening or tab 230 . As a result , as shown in Figures 5A to 5D and 8A to 8D, the tab 230 of the neck opening is pressed down slightly when the closure cap is closed and lies flush against the outer side of the sealing ring 36 . This provides an adequate seal against liquids .

Closure cap 33 engages with its internally threaded segment 340 opposite hinge j oint 335 with externally threaded segment 250 in the closed state . As shown, the externally threaded segment extends by at least 180 ° , in one embodiment by 300 ° , and has only a small pitch or even no pitch in this region . This allows the separation process , i . e . the cutting of an opening to be separated from the opening of the closure and achieved in two successive steps .

Retaining ring 31 is interlocked with its retaining elements ( 311 in Figure 5C ) to the underside of locking ring 24 , thereby securing the fastener to the neck . Connected to the retaining ring 31 is a cutting indicator ring 310 , which faces the bearing surface 21 of the lower portion and is connected to the retaining ring by a plurality of connecting webs 314 ( see Figures 5C , 9A and 9B ) . In the cross-sectional view shown, the thickening 322 can also be seen around which the securing indicator ring is arranged . When the closure is rotated, the cutting indicator ring 310 is separated from the retaining ring . Simultaneously, upon rotation, the cutting edges 606 penetrate and cut the packaging or packaging material .

Figure 5B shows a cross-sectional view of the cutting ring . It is formed in one piece , for example extruded . Among other things , the cutting edges 606 and the edges 609 facing away from the direction of rotation of each cutting element 606 can be seen here . The angle between a horizontal of the cutting edge 608 is smaller than the angle between the horizontal and the edge 609 facing away from the direction of rotation . As a result , each cutting element forms a triangular shape whose legs are of unequal length . Two cutting elements 606 are spaced from each other by a recess 607 . This recess is U-shaped and comprises two different longitudinal sides , the shorter side merging into the edge 609 facing away from the direction of rotation .

The cutting elements then merge into a base body of the cutting ring . Cutting ring 60 comprises , in its upper region, driving element 610 , which is attached to the inner side of the cutting ring . The vertical longitudinal side of the driving element 610 faces the driving element 380 , which is not shown here . In addition, the driving element 610 proj ects beyond the upper edge of the cutting ring .

Figure 5C shows the cross-sectional view of the closure according to the proposed principle . The rotary closure is essentially divided into three sections . The upper area comprises the closure cap 33 with the sealing ring 36 , which is attached to the retaining ring 31 in the area 315 via a hinge 32 and the j oint 335 . Closure cap 33 has internally threaded segment 340 on the inner side opposite hinge 32 . This is arranged below the hinge as shown, i . e . closer to the bearing surface of the lower part . This improves a good closure and a liquid-tight reclosure . Closure cap 33 further comprises , on its inner surface , driver element 380 having a fin shape . The fin shape of the driver element shows substantially two side edges in cross-section, a first side edge 380a which is substantially perpendicular to the bearing surface and forms the front side when the rotary closure is rotated, and a curved second side 380b . This arrangement of the driver element is particularly stable and can exert sufficient pressure on the driver element to produce penetration and cutting of the package during rotation . in the area of the hinge 21 , the retaining ring is reinforced in its area 315 and thus connects the hinge j oint 335 and the closure cap 33 to the retaining ring . On the inside , the retaining ring comprises a number of circularly circumferential retaining elements 311 . These are attached to the lower end of the retaining ring and are folded down when installed, i . e . pushed over the lower part . The retaining elements 311 thus engage on the locking ring 24 of the lower part . This effectively prevents displacement of the rotary closure and translational movement upwards . The retaining ring 31 is further secured to the closure cap 33 by a plurality of connecting webs 313 . To produce the multipart closure , the retaining elements on the retaining ring are first folded down and then the retaining ring together with the closure cap 33 attached thereto and the cutting indicator ring are fitted over the neck opening . This causes the retaining elements to move over the locking ring 24 in the direction of the bearing surface 21 until they engage in the space between the locking ring 24 and the thickening .

Finally, the multi-part closure further comprises a cutting indicator ring 310 , which is in turn attached to the retaining ring 31 by means of connecting webs 314 . The retaining ring has a structure 312 on its inner side , which interacts with the bearing surface in such a way that when the rotary closure is rotated through a first angle of rotation, the cutting indicator ring is separated from the retaining ring 31 by its connecting webs 314 . As a result , after a rotation through the first rotation angle , it is indicated to a user that a rotation has been performed and thus the aseptic barrier is compromised because , due to the rotation, the cutting edge 608 of the cutter ring has or may have penetrated the package . This condition and effect is described in more detail in Figures 8A through 8D .

In this context , Figures 9A and 9B again show the closure cap in crosssection in two different states . The first state in Figure 9A corresponds to the mold after inj ection molding , the second state in Figure 9B is the state after assembly on a base part ( not shown) . In Figure 9A, it can be clearly seen that the retaining element 311 is folded downward in the state after inj ection molding compared to the assembled state . This is due to the manufacturing process , since the closure cap is integrally molded by means of an inj ection molding process according to the proposed principle . This means that the closure cap together with the hinge 32 , the retaining ring 31 and the cutting indicator ring 310 are manufactured cohesively by means of inj ection molding . The cutting indicator ring 310 includes a plurality of protrusions 312 extending internally at intervals along the side surface of the cutting indicator ring . In the presented embodiment example , these are a total of four individual protrusions 312 that are regularly spaced from each other . The protrusions themselves are again U-shaped in configuration with a cross-section tapering towards the end of the protrusions . The cutting indicator ring 310 is again connected to the retaining ring 31 via connecting webs 314 .

In this connection, Figure 9C shows an enlarged section of the connection of the cutting indicator ring 310 to the retaining ring 31 . Here it is shown that the retaining elements 311 do not directly attach to the lower edge 31b of the retaining ring, but the attachment 311a of the retaining elements 311 is slightly spaced from the lower edge 31b of the retaining ring 31 . Moreover , the lug 311a merges into the side surface of the retaining ring 31 by means of a curvature . The distance of the proj ection 311a from the lower edge 31b of the retaining ring corresponds substantially to the height of the connecting webs 314 . This configuration between the retaining ring, the proj ection 311a of the retaining element 311 and the cutting indicator ring allows the closure cap presented in Figures 9A to 9C to be formed in one piece .

Moreover, as shown, the connecting webs 314 are designed to be slightly larger than the connecting piece 312 between the retaining ring 31 and the closure cap 33 . In the present example , the number of connecting webs 313 is selected to be larger than the number of corresponding connecting webs 314 . Thus , the force that must be applied to destroy the connecting webs 314 and thus separate the cutting indicator ring from the retaining ring is somewhat less than the corresponding force that is necessary to separate the closure cap 33 from the retaining ring 31 . This ensures that it is safely indicated to a user that an aseptic barrier can no longer be assured .

The retaining member 311 is formed with a plurality of rib-like extensions extending inwardly from the extension 311a . Each rib is approximately semi-circular in shape , with adj acent ribs interconnected by a thin bridge of material . By means of the material bridge , a degree of flexibility is provided during inj ection molding and assembly onto the base . At the same time , the ribs form a firm hold in an assembled state and engage the underside of the snap ring 24 with sufficient force .

Referring back again to Figure 5D, this shows the lower part 2 of the proposed multi-part closure . The lower portion has a tab 230 , also referred to as a neck opening tab , which is folded inwardly . The neck 22 is attached to the bearing surface via a thickened element 322 in this cross-sectional view . The thickened element 322 cooperates with the cutting indicator ring 310 of the closure cap such that it is separated from the retaining ring when the closure cap is opened, i . e . , by a rotation of the cap . For this purpose , the lower part still comprises a cutting ring section 323 in its lower region, which serves to separate the connecting webs 314 between the cutting indicator ring 310 and the retaining ring 31 .

Neck 22 of base 2 further has a detent ring 24 that cooperates with retaining elements 311 of retaining ring 31 to hold the closure cap in position . Downstream of the detent ring 24 in the direction of the neck opening and the tab 230 is the externally threaded segment 250 . This runs around the neck at an angle in the range of 300 ° and then merges into a connection external thread segment 251 , which has a different pitch compared to the external thread segment 250 . In particular , the externally threaded segment 250 with its very low pitch serves essentially to move the cutting ring towards the package when the closure cap is rotated, thus cutting an opening in the package . Only after an opening has been cut , a further rotation moves the closure cap 33 away upwardly through a guide of the internally threaded segment 340 on the connection externally threaded segment 251 . To ensure a cutting action, the neck comprises a female neck thread 220 whose pitch is opposite to the pitch of the male connection thread 251 or also of the male thread segment 250 ( if the latter is not equal to 0 ) . When the closure is rotated, the internal neck thread thus acts in such a way that the cutting ring located in the internal neck thread moves downwards , i . e . towards the packaging .

An opening process of the multi-part closure according to the proposed principle is thus shown in Figures 6A to 6G in side view and Figures 8A to 8G in cross-sectional view . The figures each show a side view of the multi-part closure in various rotational positions . In Figures 6A and 8A, respectively, the fully closed state prior to a first rotation is shown . The cutting indicator ring 310 is attached by its connecting webs to the retaining ring 31 . This in turn is firmly connected to the closure cap 33 via further connecting webs . Drive element 610 is slightly spaced from drive element 380 so that no pressure is exerted on the latter and manufacturing tolerances can thus also be compensated . The lower edges of the cutting ring are likewise spaced within the neck and thus from a surface of the package . This ensures that tolerances or slight vibrations do not inadvertently rotate the closure and thus damage the aseptic barrier .

In such a state , the multi-part closure is delivered according to the proposed principle and is attached to the aseptic packaging, for example a cardboard packaging . A user is indicated by the various intact connecting webs that the aseptic barrier in the area of the opening is undamaged and that the closure has not been actuated unintentionally .

Figure 6B shows the closure after a partial rotation of the first angle . For example , a first partial rotation of approximately 30 ° moves the cutting indicator ring together with the retaining ring and the closure cap . This causes the elements on the inside of the cutting indicator ring 31 ( see Figure 5C ) and the thickenings 322 to cooperate and, together with the cutting ring section 323 , cause the connecting webs 314 between the cutting indicator ring 310 and the locking ring 31 to be separated . At the same time , this first movement causes the driving element 380 to approach the driving element 610 on the cutting ring and, if necessary, move the latter downward by a small amount . Depending on the tolerance , the cutting edges 606 may already be in contact with the packaging, penetrating it and thus damaging the aseptic barrier . In any case , however , this first partial rotation and tearing of the connecting webs 314 already visually communicates to a user that there is a ris k of damage to the aseptic barrier . The connecting webs thus act as a tamper protection ( "tamper band" ) . This increases safety, especially for perishable food products . In a direct comparison of Figures 8A and 8b, it can be seen that the cutting ring has been moved slightly downwards . In the example shown, the first angle is 300 ° , but this first sub-angle is 30 ° , i . e . approx . 1 / 10 of the total first angle of rotation . For an internal neck thread with the same pitch, the cutting ring may therefore have been moved down by 1/ 10 of the total travel .

However , in an alternative embodiment , the female neck thread may have a different pitch . For example , the internal neck thread can have a lower pitch in an initial part region than in a second subsequent region . As a result , no translational movement of the cutting ring is yet generated during an initial partial rotation, but only the cutting indicator ring is separated from the retaining ring . Only after this first partial rotation does the translatory movement downward take place during a further rotation of the shutter .

With a further desired rotation of the rotary closure in the opening direction by the first angle , the internal neck thread and the corresponding external thread on the tailoring ring move the latter further downwards . The driver elements 380 thus push the driver elements 610 along the direction of rotation, so that a downward movement is performed by the internal neck thread . As a result , the cutting edges 608 separate the package and cut a substantially circular opening . Cutting ring 60 thus performs a downward transnasal motion in addition to a rotation about the first angle .

In the present example of Figures 6C and 8C , this movement is completed by the first angle . The cutting edges now proj ect downward beyond the support surface 21 . In this example , the recesses 607 also proj ect below the support surface . Only the area of the base body with the external thread remains completely in the neck 22 . At the same time , in this embodiment , the driving element 610 is guided along the side edge 380a of the driving element 380 and, in fact , to approximately a height at which the side edge 380a is curved . This means that the total height of the driving element 380 is greater than the distance that is guided out downwardly by the movement of the cutting ring 60 . This ensures that during rotation through the first angle of rotation, the driver element does not slip .

The first angle of rotation in the embodiment example in Figures 6C and 8C is approx . 300 ° , but can also be smaller or larger depending on the pitch of the internal neck thread . It is essential , however, that the external thread segment does not have a larger pitch during this first rotation, so that the closure cap itself remains fixed to the retaining ring during the cutting process . This separates the cutting process from the actual opening process of the closure cap . This has the advantage that even after the aseptic barrier has been cut and an opening has been cut in the packaging, the closure cap 33 remains closed and thus liquid-tight .

With a continued rotation through a second angle following the first angle , the internally threaded segment in the closure cap is now guided away upwards through the externally threaded connection segment on the neck . As a result , as shown in Figures 6D and 8D, the connecting webs between retaining ring 31 and closure cap 33 also break off , so that the latter is now slightly open . Figure 8D shows a cross-sectional view in which the cutting edges 323 are arranged between the cutting indicator ring 311 and the retaining ring 31 .

After completion of the rotation shown in Figures 6D and 8D, the closure cap is thus free to move upwards . This is achieved because the female thread of the closure cap is now completely separated from the male thread segment connection and is thus exposed .

Figures 6E and 8E show the unfolded state of the multi-part closure according to the proposed principle . The closure 33 is folded away, around the hinge towards the top, by a certain angle , for example about 120 ° , until the closure cap is opened .

The hinge 32 also holds the closure cap 33 in this position, so that a corresponding movement of the carton allows a liquid to escape through the neck opening without the closure cap folding back due to gravity . Figure 2 further illustrates a possible position of the closure on a carton package having a gable top shape . Other carton packages are possible . The gable roof of the carton package includes a ridge 201 where the beveled surfaces 200 meet and are bonded together there . An opening is arranged on one of the surfaces 200 , on which the multi-part closure is placed .

Figure 6E shows the side view in the unfolded state , Figure 8E represents a cross-sectional view parallel to a plane through the flexible j oint of the hinge 32 . Clearly visible is the sealing ring 36 as well as the internally threaded segment 340 , which is arranged opposite the hinge 32 .

In the unfolded embodiment shown in Figures 6E and 8E , the closure cap is open at approximately 120 ° to a plane parallel to the support surface 21 . The hinge 32 likewise holds the closure cap 33 in this position so that appropriate movement of the carton allows a liquid to escape through the neck opening without the closure cap folding back by gravity .

In conj unction with Figure 7 and Figures 6E and 8E , the structure and operation of the hinge is illustrated . In the illustrated embodiment , the hinge 32 includes a first hinge tab 315 that forms part of the retaining ring 31 and a second tab that forms part of the closure cap . The flexible hinge 335 of the hinge 32 is made of a flexible material and integrally connects the retaining ring 31 and the closure cap 33 . In this regard, the second hinge tab as part of the closure cap comprises a downwardly formed parabolic or other curved shape .

The design of the first hinge tab 315 is also shaped accordingly, which also rises along a curved path to a maximum and then falls again . Between these two curved hinge tabs , the flexible j oint 335 is arranged as material . Because of the curvature , the flexible j oint is subj ected to a stronger pull in the outer regions , i . e . , spaced from a center of the hinge when the closure 33 is opened . This tension generates a counterforce that must be overcome when the closure cap rotates about the flexible j oint . The force increases during a rotational movement to a maximum at which the pull on the material of the flexible joint of the hinge 32 is at a maximum. With a further rotational movement, this tension decreases again. As a result, the material of the flexible joint acts like a snap element, whereby a maximum angle is set, at the ex- ceeding of which the snap element brings the closure cap into the unfolded shape by its pull.

The hinge is thus slightly relaxed in the opened state; a rotational movement back again would thus lead to a tensile force that counteracts the rotational movement. As a result, the closure cap is held in the unfolded state. An opening angle in the unfolded state is more than 90° and can, for example, be in the range of 115° to 150°, in particular around 120° .

Claims

Claims Multi-part closure (1) , in particular for an aseptic package containing liquid, comprising:

- a lower part (2) having a flat support (21) and a neck (22) integrally arranged thereon, the neck (22) comprising:

- a neck opening (23) ;

- a locking ring (24) surrounding the neck (22) ;

- at least a first locking element (25) formed between a neck opening (23) and the locking ring (24) ;

- a rotatably mounted cutting ring (60) which is arranged in the neck, has at least one driving element (610) at its end facing the neck opening and is designed to convert a rotation relative to the neck into a translatory movement;

- a rotary closure (3) which comprises:

- a circlip (31) ;

- a closure cap (33) attached to the retaining ring (31) via a hinge ( 32 ) , wherein the retaining ring (31) is at least partially disposed between the support (21) and the retaining ring (24) around the neck and is rotatably retained by the retaining ring (24) , and wherein the closure cap (33) comprises at least one driver element (380) and at least one second locking element (34) , wherein, in the closed state, upon a first rotation of the rotary closure (3) through a first angle, the driver member (380) is adapted to cooperate with the at least one driver member (610) to effect rotation of the tailoring ring (60) ; and wherein the at least one second locking element (34) cooperates with the at least one first locking element (25) during a second rotation of the rotary closure (3) following the first rotation in such a way that the rotary movement is converted into a translatory movement of the closure cap (33) for opening the multi-part closure. The multi-part closure of claim 1, wherein the at least one second locking member (34) cooperates with the at least one first locking member (25) in a closed state such that the neck opening (23) is closed with the closure cap (33) in a fluid-tight manner. The multi-part closure of claim 1 or 2 further comprising:

- a cutting indicator ring (310) disposed about the neck and coupled to the closure cap (33) or to the retaining ring (31) by connecting webs and configured to separate the connecting webs upon the first rotation of the rotary closure (3) through the first angle to indicate a cutting movement of the cutting ring into the package. The multi-part closure of claim 3 wherein the neck has at least one sectional thickening (322) at its base around which the cutting indicator ring (310) is disposed, and the cutting indicator ring (310) includes at least one protrusion facing the neck such that the at least one sectional thickening (322) cooperates with the protrusion (311) upon the first rotation to separate the connecting webs . The multi-part closure of claim 3, wherein the neck comprises at least one cutting ring portion (323) disposed between the locking ring (31) and the cutting indicator ring (310) and configured to separate the connecting webs upon the first rotation of the rotary closure (3) through the first angle. A multi-part closure according to any of the preceding claims , wherein the locking ring (31) is connected to the closure cap (33) via connecting webs (313) forming a plurality of predetermined breaking points . A multi-part closure according to any of the preceding claims , wherein the detent ring (24) extends with its side facing the flat support (21) substantially parallel to the support (21) and the side facing away from the flat support (21) extends obliquely to the support (21) . A multi-part closure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the retaining ring (31) comprises a plurality of retaining elements (311) configured to substantially non-releasably retain the retaining ring about the neck in cooperation with the detent ring (24) . The multi-part closure of claim 8, wherein the retaining elements (311) are pivotally attached at one end to the retaining ring (31) , and have their other end facing the side of the locking ring (24) facing the planar support (21) ; optionally wherein a pivot axis of the retaining elements (311) faces the planar support. A multi-part closure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one first locking element (25) comprises at least one externally threaded segment (250) having a first pitch and the at least one second locking element (34) comprises at least one internally threaded segment (340) having a second pitch, in particular on an inner side surface of the closure cap (33) . The multi-part closure accordint to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one first locking member (25) comprises an externally threaded segment (250) and the at least one second locking member (34) comprises an internally threaded segment (340) , the internally threaded segment (340) being disposed substantially opposite the hinge (32) . The multi-part closure accordint to any of claims 10 or 11, wherein a length of the internally threaded segment (340) is substantially 0.33 to 0.66 times, in particular in the range of 0.55 to 0.65 times, a circumference of the inside of the closure cap (33) on which the internally threaded segment (340) is disposed. The multi-part closure of claim 8 or 9, wherein a length of the male thread segment (250) is 0.8 to 1.8 times a neck circumference.

14. A multi-part closure according to any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein the at least one first locking element (25) comprises a connecting external threaded segment (251) which adjoins the at least one external threaded segment (250) and is configured to guide the at least one internal threaded segment (340) into the external threaded segment (250) upon rotational movement of the closure cap (33) .

15. A multi-part closure according to claim 14, wherein a pitch of the connection external thread segment (251) differs from the first pitch, in particular is greater than the first pitch.

16. The multi-part closure accordint to any of claims 11 to 14, wherein the first pitch is substantially 0 at least in a section, particularly in an end section.

17. A multi-part closure according to a claim 13, wherein a pitch of the connection external thread segment (251) changes.

18. The multi-part closure accordint to any of claims 6 to 15, further comprising a latching cam (355) disposed proximate an end portion in the externally threaded segment (250) and configured to engage a notch in the internally threaded segment (340) in a closed condition of the closure cap (33) .

19. The multi-part closure accordint to any of claims 6 to 15, further comprising a notch disposed near each end in the male threaded segment (250) and configured to engage a latching cam (355) in the female threaded segment (340) in a closed condition of the closure cap ( 33 ) .

20. The multi-part closure accordint to any of the preceding claims, wherein a female neck thread (220) is disposed in the neck and has a third pitch, and wherein the tailoring ring has a male tailoring ring thread (605) having substantially the same pitch.

21. The multi-part closure of claim 20, wherein a length of the female neck thread (220) and/or the male tailoring ring thread (605) is 0.7 to 1.8 times a neck circumference.

22. The multi-part closure of claim 20 or 21, wherein the female neck thread (220) and the male tailoring ring thread (605) are singlestart or double-start or triple-start.

23. The multi-part closure accordint to any of claims 20 to 22, wherein the third pitch is greater than the first pitch or wherein the female neck thread (220) has a reversed pitch with respect to the male thread segment or the male terminal thread segment with respect to a predetermined direction of rotation.

24. The multi-part closure accordint to any of claims 20 to 23, wherein the female neck thread (220) is configured to move the tailoring ring away from the neck opening during the first rotation.

25. The multi-part closure accordint to any of claims 20 to 24, wherein a detent cam is provided in an end portion of the female neck thread (220) engaged by a detent notch (622) of the male tailoring ring thread ( 605 ) .

26. The multi-part closure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one driver element (610) is disposed inside the cutting ring and the at least one driver element (380) engages inside the cutting ring.

27. The multi-part closure according to any of the preceding claims, comprising two entrainment elements (610) and two entrainment elements (380) , respectively, wherein the two entrainment elements (380) are arranged opposite each other, and in particular lie symmetrically about an axis through the hinge and the center of the closure cap.

28. The multi-part closure accordint to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one driver element (380) has a fin shape with a substantially vertical side facing the at least one driver element (610) and a beveled side facing away from the at least one driver element.

29. A multi-part closure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cutting ring comprises at least three cutting elements (606) , the cutting edges of which lie in a direction of rotation of the first rotation and are arranged at an angle ( a) with respect to a horizontal.

30. The multi-part closure according to claim 29, in which a recess

(607) is arranged between two cutting elements (606) , the sides of which are in particular of different lengths.

31. The multi-part closure accordint to any of the preceding claims, wherein the closure cap includes a sealing ring (36) that engages the neck opening (23) in a fluid-tight manner when the closure cap is in a closed condition.

32. The multi-part closure of claim 31, wherein the sealing ring (36) has an outer diameter slightly larger than the neck opening (23) .

33. The multi-part closure of claim 31 or 32, wherein the neck opening (23) includes an inwardly curved tab (230) .

34. The multi-part closure accordint to any of claims 31 to 33, wherein the sealing ring (36) has a height that increases with increasing distance from the hinge (32) .

35. The multi-part closure accordint to any of claims 31 to 34, wherein a height of the sealing ring (36) is such that, in a cross-section along a plane passing through the hinge (32) and the center of the closure cap (33) , a portion of the sealing ring (36) facing the hinge has a lower height than a portion (36a) of the sealing ring facing away from the hinge.

36. The multi-part closure accordint to any of claims 31 to 35, wherein a side of the sealing ring (36) facing the neck opening (23) is shorter than an inner side of the sealing ring (36) .

37. The multi-part closure accordint to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hinge (32) comprises a butterfly hinge.

38. A multi-part closure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hinge (32) comprises a flexible joint disposed between the retaining ring and the closure cap, which is in particular made in one piece with the retaining ring (31) and the closure cap (33) .

39. The multi-part closure accordint to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hinge (32) comprises a first hinge tab (315) forming part of the retaining ring and comprises a second hinge tab (335) forming part of the closure cap (33) .

40. The multi-part closure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hinge (32) is configured to hold the closure cap (33) in an opened and/or unfolded state at an angle of at least 90° rotated about the hinge, and in particular in the range of 115° to 145°, but more particularly greater than 120° rotated about the hinge ( 32 ) .

41. The multi-part closure accordint to any of claims 38 to 40, wherein the hinge (32) comprises at least one snap element (321) configured to retain the closure cap above a predefined angle of rotation of the closure cap about the flexible hinge, particularly in the range of 80° to 100° .

42. The multi-part closure of claim 41, wherein the at least one snap member (321) is housed within a recess of the retaining ring, and an axis of rotation of the flexible joint extends above said recess.

43. The multi-part closure accordint to any of claims 38 to 41, wherein an axis of rotation of the flexible hinge is closer to the plane spanned by the neck opening (23) than the first and second locking elements ( 34 ) .

44. The multi-part closure accordint to any of claims 38 to 42, wherein the flexible hinge extends at a level of a lower edge of the sealing ring, particularly in the range of 1mm to 3mm around the lower edge of the sealing ring.

45. The multi-part closure accordint to any of claims 38 to 44, wherein the flexible hinge is disposed above the first and second locking elements (25, 34) with respect to the planar support of the base .

46. The multi-part closure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the neck opening (23) has a smaller outer diameter than a neck underside, particularly in the region of the locking ring.

47. The multi-part closure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the closure cap comprises on its circumferential side flank a corrugation (9) having vertically extending ridges, optionally the number of ridges per unit length varying.

48. The multi-part closure according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the overlay has a weld edge spaced from and extending around the neck opening.