WO2024088804A1

WO2024088804A1 - Closure assembly for a container and container having a closure assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2024088804A1
Application number: PCT/EP2023/078612
Authority: WO
Inventors: Marco INSERO; Pietro Martini; Angelo Sorbara; Martina LINGUITI; Luca Gori; Tiziano VIANI; Franco Cani
Original assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A.
Priority date: 2022-10-26
Filing date: 2023-10-16
Publication date: 2024-05-02
Also published as: EP4422981A1; ES1306966Y; DE202023105945U1; ES1306966U

Abstract

There is described a closure assembly (3) for a container (1) filled or fillable with a pourable product, the closure assembly (3) comprising: a collar (14) including an outer threaded portion; a lid (8) including inner threaded portion, wherein the inner threaded portion and the outer threaded portion are configured to allow for fastening the lid (8) to the collar (14) by rotating the lid (8) relative to the collar (14); a ring member (9); a cutting device (18); a control device configured to control the cutting device (18); one or more coupling elements (101, 102), each having a first end (101A, 102A) connected to the lid (8) and a second end (101B, 102B) connected to the ring member (9), wherein the lid (8), in the open condition, is rotatable about a twisting axis (H) so to be arrangeable in a temporary locking position, in which the first rim (27) of the lid (8) rests, at least partially, against said outer threaded portion (140) of the collar (14).

Description

CLOSURE ASSEMBLY FOR A CONTAINER AND CONTAINER HAVING A

CLOSURE ASSEMBLY

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a closure assembly for a container, in particular a container filled or fillable with a pourable product , even more particular a container filled or fillable with a pourable food product .

The present invention also relates to a container filled or fillable with a pourable product , even more particular a container filled or fillable with a pourable food product , having a closure assembly .

BACKGROUND ART

As is known, many liquid or pourable food products , such as fruit j uice , UHT (ultra-high-temperature treated) milk, wine , tomato sauce , etc . , are sold in containers , such as composite packages , bottles , cans and the like .

It is furthermore known that often such containers are provided with a closure assembly so as to selectively allow outpouring of the pourable product from the container .

A typical closure assembly comprises a collar, which is connected to the container, having a pouring outlet allowing the outpouring of the pourable product from the container and a lid configured to selectively open and close the pouring outlet and being connected to the collar when closing the pouring outlet . It is further known that the closure assembly typically comprises a ring member coupled to and surrounding the collar . The axial movement of the ring member along the collar is typically limited by means of an annular ridge radially protruding from the collar so as to guarantee that the ring member remains coupled to the collar .

Furthermore , prior to the first removal of the lid, the ring member and the lid are connected to one another by means of coupling bridges , which rupture during the first removal of the lid from the collar . After the first removal of the lid from the collar, the ring member and the lid are detached from one another .

An inconvenience is seen in that the lid is disconnected from the ring member and, thus , when removing the lid from the collar for opening the pouring outlet , the lid is detached and distinct from the container . This means e . g . that a user needs to keep the lid in one hand and the container needs to be kept in the other one . Furthermore , such inconvenience may lead to an undesired littering of the lid .

In order to overcome such inconveniences , it has been proposed to tether the lid to the ring member by means of a connection element . Even though such closure assemblies work satis fyingly well , a desire is felt in the sector to further improve such closure assemblies . In particular, tethered caps may have the inconvenience that once the cap is opened the lid may interfere with the pouring outlet while pouring the liquid product out of the container .

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

It is therefore an obj ect of the present invention to provide in a straightforward and low-cost manner an improved closure assembly for containers , in particular filled or fillable with a pourable product , even more particular filled or fillable with a pourable food product .

Advantageously, it is a further obj ect of the present invention to provide in a straightforward and low-cost manner an improved closure assembly for containers , which comes along with a minimal strain acting on the ring members during operation of the respective lids .

Advantageously, it is another obj ect of the present invention to provide in a straightforward and low-cost manner a container, in particular filled or fillable with a pourable product , even more particular fi lled or fillable with a pourable food product , having a closure assembly, which comes along with a minimal strain acting on the ring members during operation of the respective lids .

According to the present invention, there is provided a closure assembly according to independent claim 1 .

Further advantageous embodiments of the closure assembly are speci fied in the dependent claims . According to the present invention, there is also provided a container according to claim 14 .

According to the present invention, there is also provided a method according to claim 15 .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A non-limiting embodiment of the present invention will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings , in which :

Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of a container having a closure assembly according to the present invention, with parts removed for clarity;

Figure 2 is an exploded view of the closure assembly of Figure 1 , with parts removed for clarity;

Figure 3 is an enlarged perspective view of details of the closure assembly of Figure 1 , with parts removed for clarity;

Figure 4 is a further enlarged perspective view of details of the closure assembly of Figure 1 , with parts removed for clarity;

Figures 5 and 6 illustrate the closure assembly of Figure 1 in the open condition before rotating the lid about a twisting axis ;

Figures 7 , 8 and 9 illustrate the closure assembly of Figure 1 in the open condition after rotating the lid about the twisting axis . BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Number 1 indicates as a whole a container, such as a bottle, a (composite) package, a can, or the like, comprising a main body 2 and a closure assembly 3 coupled or couplable to main body 2.

Preferably but not necessarily, container 1 is filled or fillable with a pourable product, in particular a pourable food product, even more particular a sterilized and/or a sterile-processed pourable food product, such as fruit juice, milk (e.g. ultra-high-temperature treated milk) , water, wine, tomato sauce, sugar, salt and others.

The following description will refer to composite containers 1, in particular to containers 1 whose main body 2 is obtained from a web of packaging material having a multilayer structure, although this is in no way intended to limit the scope of protection as defined by the accompanying claims .

In particular, the web of packaging material comprises at least a layer of fibrous material, such as e.g. a paper or cardboard layer, and at least two layers of heat-seal plastic material, e.g. polyethylene, interposing the layer of fibrous material in between one another. One of these two layers of heat-seal plastic material defines the inner face of main body 2 contacting the pourable product.

Preferably but not necessarily, the web of packaging material also comprises a layer of gas- and light-barrier material , e . g . aluminum foil or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film, in particular being arranged between one of the layers of heat-seal plastic material and the layer of fibrous material . Preferentially but not necessarily, the web of packaging material also comprises a further layer of heatseal plastic material being interposed between the layer of gas- and light-barrier material and the layer of fibrous material .

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment , main body 2 defines a sealed package , in particular a sealed carton package , having a designated pour opening surface area (not shown and known as such) , and closure assembly 3 is fitted to main body 2 , in particular about the designated pour opening surface area .

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment , closure assembly ( ies ) 3 is ( are ) applied to main body ( ies ) 2 prior, during or after formation, filling and sealing of main body ( ies ) 2 by means of a molding process and/or adhesive bonding and/or ultrasonic bonding .

Alternatively, closure assembly ( ies ) 3 can be applied onto the web of packaging material prior to arranging the web of packaging material within or during advancement of the web of packaging material within a packaging machine for forming, filling and sealing main body ( ies ) 2 from the web of packaging material .

With particular reference to Figure 1 , main body 2 extends along a longitudinal axis A, a first transversal axis B and a second transversal axis C . In particular, axis A is perpendicular to axis B and axis C and axis B and axis C are perpendicular to one another .

Preferentially but not necessari ly, the extension of main body 2 along axis A is larger than the extension of main body 2 along axis B and axis C .

Preferentially but not necessarily, main body 2 is parallelepiped- shaped .

According to the non-limiting embodiment disclosed, main body 2 comprises a first wall portion, in particular being transversal , even more particular perpendicular, to axis A, from which main body 2 extends along axis A. Preferably but not necessarily, the first wal l portion defines a support surface of container 1 , in particular main body 2 , which, in use , can be put in contact with a support , such as e . g . a shel f , when, in use , being e . g . exposed within a sales point or when being stored . In particular, when being arranged on a support and/or, in use , during consumption of the pourable product by a consumer from container 1 the first wall portion defines a bottom wall portion .

Preferably but not necessarily, main body 2 also comprises a plurality of lateral walls 4 being ( fixedly) connected to the first wall portion and extending, in particular substantially parallel to axis A, from the first wall portion .

Preferably but not necessarily, main body 2 also comprises at least one second wall portion 5 opposite to the first wall portion and being ( fixedly) connected to lateral walls 4 . In other words , lateral walls 4 are interposed between the first wall portion and second wall portion 5 . In particular, when being arranged on a support and/or, in use , during consumption of the pourable product by a consumer from container 1 , second wall portion 5 defines a top wall portion .

According to some non-limiting embodiments , the first wall portion and second wall portion 5 may be parallel to one another . Alternatively, the first wall portion and second wall portion 5 could be inclined with respect to one another .

According to some non-limiting embodiments , second wall portion 5 comprises the designated pour opening surface area .

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment , the designated pour opening surface area of main body 2 comprises a pouring hole allowing for the outflow of the pourable product from main body 2 .

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment , the designated pour opening surface area also comprises a separation membrane sealing the pouring hole . In particular, the separation membrane is configured to retain the pourable product within main body 2 when being intact and to be at least partially ( and non-reversibly ) openable and/or rupturable and/or cuttable and/or pierceable so as to allow the outflow of the pourable product from main body 2 through at least a portion of the pouring hole . In particular, the separation membrane is configured to allow the outflow of the pourable product after its loss of integrity and to protect the pourable product from the outer environment prior to its cutting and/or opening and/or rupturing and/or piercing .

Preferentially but not necessarily, the separation membrane comprises a gas- and light-barrier material , e . g . aluminum foil or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) film .

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment , the separation membrane is defined by a portion of the web of packaging material , in particular a portion of the layers of the web of packaging material being di f ferent from the layer of fibrous material .

According to a preferred non-limiting embodiment , closure assembly 3 comprises and/or is formed from a polymeric material .

In alternative , closure assembly 3 could comprise and/or is formed from a metallic material .

With particular reference to Figures 1 to 4 , closure assembly 3 comprises at least a closing group 7 having at least :

- a lid 8 ;

- a ring member 9 ; and one or more coupling elements 101 , 102 , in the speci fic case shown two coupling elements 101 , 102 , connected to lid 8 and to ring member 9 .

Preferentially, closing group 7 is molded as a single piece from a molten polymer .

It should be noted that coupling elements 101 , 102 are connected to lid 8 and ring member 9 in a non-rupturable manner and/or at least a separation-resistant manner . This means that upon a normal use of closure assembly 3 coupling elements 101 , 102 remain connected to lid 8 and ring member 9 . In particular, coupling elements 101 , 102 are connected to lid 8 and ring member 9 such to resist an acting force , which exceeds the forces that typically act during a normal use of closure assembly 3 . An example of the occurrence of such an exceeding acting force is the case when a user intends to willingly detach coupling elements 101 , 102 from lid 8 and/or ring member 9 by pull ing lid 8 and ring member 9 along di f ferent directions from one another .

In particular, coupling elements 101 , 102 tether lid 8 and ring member 9 with one another .

According to some preferred non- limiting embodiments , closure assembly 3 also comprises one or more rupturable first coupling bridges 11 connecting ring member 9 and lid 8 with one another . In particular, and as explained in more detail further below, first coupling bridges 11 are configured to rupture during a first-time operation of lid 8 (by a consumer ) .

Preferentially but not necessarily, closure assembly 3 also comprises a tamper-evidence ring 12 and one or more rupturable ( second) coupling bridges 13 connecting tamperevidence ring 12 and ring member 9 with one another . In particular, and as explained in more detail further below, second coupling bridges 13 are configured to rupture during the first-time operation of lid 8 .

In particular, ring member 9 is interposed between lid 8 and tamper-evidence ring 12 .

According to some non-limiting embodiments , closure assembly 3 also comprises a collar 14 delimiting and/or defining and/or having a pouring outlet 15 , pouring outlet 15 being configured to allow for the outflow of the pourable product from container 1 .

In particular, collar 14 is arranged about the pouring hole .

According to some preferred non- limiting embodiments , collar 14 extends along a longitudinal axis E . In particular, collar 14 has an annular shape , in particular an annular cross-sectional shape with respect to a sectional plane being orthogonal to longitudinal axis E .

In particular, collar 14 defines and/or delimits and/or comprises a flow channel for the pourable product . Even more particular, the flow channel is interposed and/or i s designed to be interposed between pouring outlet 15 and the pouring hole .

According to some non-limiting embodiments , ring member 9 and/or tamper-evidence ring 12 is/are mounted to and arranged around collar 14 .

Preferentially, second ring member 9 and/or tamperevidence ring 12 is/are coaxial to collar 14 .

Preferentially, lid 8 is connected and/or connectable to collar 14 and is configured to selectively close and open pouring outlet 15 for respectively impeding and allowing the outflow of the pourable product from container 1 through pouring outlet 15 .

According to some preferred non- limiting embodiments , lid 8 is control lable in at least a closing position ( see Figures 1 to 4 ) in which lid 8 closes and/or is configured to close pouring outlet 15 and an opening position (not shown) in which lid 8 opens and/or is configured to open the pouring outlet 15 .

Preferentially but not necessarily, lid 8 is controlled in the closing position and the opening position with lid 8 being respectively coupled to and detached from collar 14 . In particular, lid 8 is coaxial to collar 14 and/or pouring outlet 15 when being controlled in the closing position and preferentially but not necessarily is transversal to collar 14 when being controlled in the opening position . In other words , when lid 8 is arranged in the closing position lid 8 is connected to collar 14 and covers pouring outlet 15 and when lid 8 is arranged in the opening position lid 8 is detached from collar 14 and clears pouring outlet 15 .

In more detail , in the speci fic example disclosed, lid 8 is controlled between the closing position and the opening position by means of a screwing action . In particular, lid 8 comprises an inner threaded portion, in particular arranged at an inner surface of lid 8 , and collar 14 comprises an outer threaded portion 140 , in particular arranged at an outer surface of collar 14 . Preferentially, the inner threaded portion and the outer threaded portion 140 are configured to allow for selectively fastening and loosening lid 8 to and from collar 14 by means of a relative rotation between lid 8 and collar 14 . The lid 8 is arrangeable in a closed condition in which it is fastened to the collar 14 and in an open condition in which it uncoupled from the collar ( even though being still connected to the collar 14 though the first and second coupling element 101 , 102 ) . In figures 1 and 3 the lid 8 is arranged in the closed condition, while in figures 6- 9 it is arranged in the open condition .

According to some non-limiting embodiments , the inner threaded portion and/or the outer threaded portions 140 define a cam mechanism .

It should be noted that prior to the first-time control ( first-time operation) of lid 8 from the closing position to the opening position, first coupling bridges 11 connect ring member 9 and lid 8 with one another and, in use , during the first time lid 8 is controlled from the closing position to the opening position, first coupling bridges 11 irreversibly rupture .

In particular, and in an equivalent manner, second coupling bridges 13 connect ring member 9 and tamper-evidence ring 12 with one another prior to the first-time control of lid 8 from the closing position to the opening position and, in use , during the first time lid 8 is controlled from the closing position to the opening position, second coupling bridges 13 irreversibly rupture .

According to some non-limiting embodiments , closure assembly 3 further comprises a coupling base 16 carrying collar 14 . The coupling base 16 is configured to couple and/or connect and/or being coupled and/or connected to main body 2 .

Preferentially but not necessarily, coupling base 16 is configured to be fixed and/or is fixed to an outer surface of the container 1 , in particular of its main body 2 , even more in particular of second wall portion 6 . In particular, coupling base 16 is arranged in the area of , even more particular at , the designated pour opening surface area .

In particular, coupling base 16 comprises an opening, and collar 14 surrounds the opening so that , in use , with the separation membrane being opened and/or cut and/or ruptured and/or pierced a fluid connection between the inside of main body 2 and pouring outlet 15 is established ( i . e . the pourable product can flow out of container 1 ) .

Preferentially but not necessarily, at least a portion of coupling base 16 ( substantially) has a plate-like configuration .

According to some preferred non- limiting embodiments , closure assembly 3 , in particular collar 14 , comprises an interaction device configured to interact with ring member 9 for preventing ring member 9 from decoupling from collar 14 . In particular, interaction device is configured to delimit an axial movement of ring member 9 along longitudinal axis E .

In more detail , the interaction device comprises , in particular consists of , an annular ridge 17 ( radially) protruding from collar 14 . In particular, annular ridge 17 ( radially) protrudes from and away of an outer surface of collar 14 . According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments , annular ridge 17 has a continuous shape . Alternatively, annular ridge 17 could have a discontinuous shape ( e . g . annular ridge 17 could be formed from a multitude of single pieces protruding from collar 14 ) .

According to some preferred non- limiting embodiments , closure assembly 3 comprises an interaction unit , in particular coupled to collar 14 , configured to interact with ring member 9 and/or tamper-evidence ring 12 so as to actuate rupture of first coupling bridges 11 and/or second coupling bridges 13 during the first time lid 8 is controlled from the closing position to the opening position .

With particular reference to Figure 2 , closure assembly 3 also comprises a cutting device 18 configured to rupture and/or pierce and/or cut and/or open the separation membrane and a control device configured to control cutting device 18 from a rest position to an operative position in which cutting device 18 is adapted to rupture and/or pierce and/or cut and/or open the separation membrane .

Preferentially but not necessari ly, cutting device 18 has an annular shape and is arranged within the flow channel of collar 14 when being arranged in the rest pos ition and protrudes at least partially out of the flow channel when being controlled in the operative position .

In particular, cutting device 18 is arranged in the rest position prior to the first time lid 8 is controlled from the closing position to the opening position and is arranged in the operative position after the first control of lid 8 to the opening position .

Preferentially but not necessari ly, cutting device 18 is in an axially raised position (with respect to longitudinal axis E ) when being arranged in the rest position and with respect to the operative position .

According to some non-limiting embodiments , the control device comprises control flaps 19 , preferably connected to lid 8 . The control device may comprise interaction elements 20 connected to cutting device 18 . The control device may comprise a cam mechanism 21 ( see Figure 2 ; known as such and not described in detail ) partially associated to cutting device 18 and partially associated to collar 14 .

According to some non-limiting embodiments not shown, cam mechanism 21 could comprise respective threaded portions .

Preferentially but not necessarily, the control device is configured to be activated during the first time control of lid 8 from the closing position to the opening position so as to ( irreversibly) move cutting device 18 from the rest position to the operative position .

With particular reference to Figures 1 to 4 , ring member 9 comprises a central axis F . In particular, central axis F is parallel , even more particular coaxial to , longitudinal axis E with ring member 9 and/or closure assembly 3 being coupled to collar 14 .

In particular, central axis F defines a central axi s of closing group 7 .

Preferentially, lid 8 is coaxial to ring member 9 and/or central axis F with lid 8 being arranged in the closing position .

Preferentially, tamper-evidence ring 12 is coaxial to ring member 9 and/or central axis F .

With particular reference to Figures 1 to 4 , lid 8 comprises :

- a top wall 25 configured to cover pouring outlet 15 with lid 8 being in the closing position; and

- a side wall 26 ( axially) protruding from top wall 25 and in particular being configured to at least partially surround collar 14 with lid 8 being controlled in the closing position ( and/or in the closed condition) .

Preferentially, side wall 26 has a respective annular cross-sectional profile , in particular with respect to a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to longitudinal axis E and/or central axis F and with lid 8 being in the closing position .

In particular, and with lid 8 being arranged in the closing position, top wall 25 is transversal , in particular perpendicular, to central axis F and side wall 26 is (substantially) parallel to longitudinal axis E and/or central axis F.

According to some possible non-limiting embodiments, lid 8 is, in particular top wall 25 and/or side wall 26 are, coupled to and are detached from collar 14 when lid 8 is, in use, in the closing position and the opening position, respectively .

According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, lid 8, in particular side wall 26, comprises a first rim 27. In particular, first rim 27 delimits an opening of lid 8 opposed to top wall 25.

First rim 27 may comprise a first surface 28.

In more detail, first surface 28 extends within a first plane, in particular first plane being perpendicular to longitudinal axis E and/or central axis F with lid 8 being arranged in the closing position.

According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments, ring member 9 comprises a second rim 29 facing first rim 27, in particular with lid 8 being arranged in the closing position .

Second rim 29 may have a second surface 30 facing first surface 28.

In more detail, second surface 30 extends within a second plane. Preferentially, the second plane is parallel to the first plane, in particular with lid 8 being in the closing position .

With particular reference to Figures 2 to 4 , each coupling element 101 , 102 preferably comprises at least :

- one respective ( linear ) intermediate portion 35 ;

- one respective first curved portion 36 connected to lid 8 , in particular first rim 27 , even more particular first surface 28 , and intermediate portion 35 ; and

- one respective second curved portion 37 connected to ring member 9 , in particular second rim 29 , even more particular second surface 30 , and intermediate portion 35 .

In other words , each coupling element 101 , 102 preferably comprises intermediate portion 35 being interposed between first curved portion 36 and second curved portion 37 .

In more detail , each intermediate portion 35 comprises a first end 38 and a second end 39 opposite to first end 38 . Preferentially, intermediate portion 35 ( substantially and) linearly extends between first end 38 and second end 39 .

In particular, first curved portion 36 is connected to first end 38 and second curved portion 37 is connected to second end 39 .

Preferentially, each coupling element 101 , 102 is S- shaped .

Advantageously, each intermediate portion 35 is inclined with respect to and/or is not parallel to lid 8 , in particular first rim 27 , even more particular first surface 28 , preferentially in the absence of any external stress and/or forces acting on closure assembly 3 ( as possibly resulting from a user operating closure assembly 3 ) .

Alternatively or in addition, each intermediate portion 35 is inclined with respect to and/or is not parallel to ring member 9 , in particular second rim 29 , even more particular second surface 30 , preferentially in the absence of any external stress and/or forces acting on closure assembly 3 ( as possibly resulting from a user operating closure assembly 3 ) .

Preferentially, each intermediate portion 35 is inclined with respect to and/or is not parallel to the first plane and/or the second plane , in particular in the absence of any external stress and/or strain and/or forces acting on closure assembly 3 ( as possibly resulting from a user operating closure assembly 3 ) .

In other words , each intermediate portion 35 comprises at least two imaginary linear proj ections 40 , one linearly extending from and away of first end 38 and the other one linearly extending from and away of second end 39 . In particular, imaginary linear proj ections 40 intersect with the first plane and/or the second plane .

According to some preferred non- limiting embodiments , each intermediate portion 35 is inclined with respect to central axis F and/or longitudinal axis E . In particular, each intermediate portion 35 i s transversal , but not perpendicular to central axis F and/or longitudinal axis E ( i . e . each intermediate portion 35 describes with central axis F and/or longitudinal axis E an angle ranging between 0 ° and 90 ° with 0 ° and 90 ° being excluded) .

Preferentially, closure assembly 3 comprises an interspace 41 arranged between and/or delimited by lid 8 , in particular first rim 27 , even more particular first surface 28 , and ring member 9 , in particular second rim 29 , even more particular second surface 30 , and each coupling element 101 , 102 is positioned within interspace 41 .

With particular reference to Figures 2 to 4 , each f irst curved portion 36 is connected to first rim 27 , in particular first surface 30 , at a respective first position 42 and each second curved portion 37 is connected to second rim 29 , in particular second surface 30 , at a respective second position 43 .

Advantageously, each first position 42 and the respective second position 43 are angularly, in particular also axially, displaced from one another, in particular around ( and along) central axis F . In particular, also first positions 42 are angularly displaced from one another and also second positions 43 are angularly displaced from one another . According to some preferred non-limiting embodiments , each first curved portion 36 is convex with respect to ring member 9 and each second curved portion 37 is concave with respect to ring member 9 . In other words , each first curved portion 36 is concave with respect to lid 8 and each second curved portion 37 is convex with respect to lid 8 .

In particular, each first curved portion 36 is curved towards (points towards ) ring member 9 and each second curved portion 37 is curved towards (points towards ) lid 8 .

Advantageously, each coupling element 101 , 102 is elastically deformable , in particular so that coupling elements 101 , 102 act in use and during handling and/or operation of closure assembly 3 , in particular closing group 7 , ( e . g . movement of lid 8 from the closing position to the opening position) as spring elements .

In more detail , each first curved portion 36 comprises a first engagement surface 44 and each second curved portion 37 comprises a second engagement surface 45 . Preferentially, each coupling element 101 , 102 is deformable such to allow for the respective first engagement surface 44 abutting against ( a respective first abutment portion of first rim 27 , in particular of first surface 28 of ) lid 8 and second engagement surface 45 to abut against ( a second abutment surface portion of second rim 29, in particular of second surface 30 of ) ring member 9 . In other words , each first engagement surface 44 and each second engagement surface 45 is adapted to engage respectively the respective first abutment portion and the respective second abutment portion, in particular during handling and/or operation of closure assembly 3 , even more particular during handling and/or operation of closing group 7 . In particular, in use , each engagement surface 44 and each engagement surface 45 engages respectively the respective first abutment portion and the respective second abutment portion during removal of closing group 7 from a mold tool and/or during mounting of closing group 7 onto collar 14 .

In addition, in use , coupling elements 101 , 102 may deform as a result of strain and/or stresses and/or forces acting during handling and/or operation of closure assembly 3 , in particular closing group 7 , ( e . g . movement of lid 8 from the closing position to the opening position) .

In use , a consumer operates closure assembly 3 , in particular closing group 7 , so as to selectively open and close pouring outlet 15 by control ling lid 8 in the opening configuration or the closing position .

In particular, prior to the first-time operation of closure assembly 3 , in particular of closing group 7 , lid 8 is in the closing position and first coupling bridges 11 and preferentially also second coupling bridges 13 are intact ( i . e . not ruptured) . The first time lid 8 is controlled from the closing position to the opening position, first coupling bridges 11 and preferentially also second coupling bridges 13 irreversibly rupture .

Thereby, coupling elements 101 , 102 guarantee that lid 8 and ring member 9 remain connected ( tethered) to one another . Additionally, this means that lid 8 remains coupled to collar 14 by means of ring member 9 . Furthermore , tamper evidence ring 12 is detached from ring member 9 and allows for a tamper evidence .

Furthermore , during the first-time control of lid 8 from the rest position to the operative position, cutting device 18 is activated, in particular cutting and/or piercing and/or opening and/or rupturing the separation membrane .

During operation of closing group 7 , in particular control of lid 8 , between the closing position and the opening position, coupling elements 101 , 102 elastically deform thereby at least partially absorbing the external stresses and/or forces acting on closure assembly 3 and/or closing group 7 .

Moreover, each first engagement surface 44 and each second engagement surface 45 may abut against respectively the relative first abutment portion and the relative second abutment portion .

With particular reference to Figures 2 to 4 , the inner threaded portion (provided in the lid 8 ) and the outer threaded portion (provided in the collar 14 ) are configured to allow for fastening the lid 8 to the collar 14 by rotating the lid 8 relative to the collar 14 in a first rotation direction, and/or for loosening the lid 8 from the collar 14 by rotating the lid 8 relative to the collar 14 in a second rotation direction . The second rotation direction is opposite to the first rotation direction .

Each coupling element 101 , 102 has a first end 101A, 102A connected to the lid 8 and a second end 101B, 102B connected to the ring member 9 . In particular, each coupling element 101 , 102 is elongated between the respective first end 101A, 102A and the respective second end 101B, 102B .

In each coupling element 101 , 102 , the first end 101A, 102A is positioned downstream of the second end 101B, 102B, along the second rotation direction . In other words , in each coupling element 101 , 102 , the first end 101A, 102A is positioned upstream of the second end 101B, 102B, along the first rotation direction . This configuration is particularly advantageous during the first opening of the closure assembly ( in which the separation membrane is ruptured by the cutting device 18 ) ; in fact , it allows the lid 8 ( gripped by the user ) to drag the ring member 9 in the second direction without overstressing the coupl ing element ( s ) 101 , 102 .

Hence , even when the force required to rupture the separation membrane is high, the coupling element ( s ) 101 , 102 are not ruptured .

Preferably, the first end 101A, 102A of each coupling element 101 , 102 is connected to the first rim 27 of the lid 8 . Preferably, the second end 101B, 102B of each coupling element 101 , 102 is connected to the second rim 29 of the ring member 9 .

Preferably, the closure assembly 3 comprises a first coupling element 101 and a second coupling element 102 defining said one or more coupling elements 101 , 102 . The first coupling element 101 and second coupling elements 101 are angularly distanced from each other ( along the first and/or second rotation direction) . In particular, the first coupling element 101 is positioned upstream of the second coupling element 102 along the second rotation direction . More in particular, the first end 101A of the first coupling element 101 is positioned upstream of the first end 102A of the second coupl ing element 102 and the second end 101B of the first coupling element 101 is positioned upstream of the second end 102B of the second coupling element 102 , along the second rotation direction . Moreover, preferably, the first end 101A of the first coupling element 102 is positioned upstream of the second end 102B of the second coupling element 102 , along the second rotation direction .

In an embodiment , the first coupling element 101 and the second coupling element 102 are located within an angular sector having an angular extension, about a central axis F of the closure assembly 3 , in the range from 20 degrees to 180 degrees (preferably from 20 degrees to 100 degrees , more preferably from 20 degrees to 90 degrees , even more preferably from 30 degrees to 80 degrees ) .

Preferably, a minimum distance between the first coupling element 101 and the second coupling element 102 is greater than a minimum thickness of the first coupling element 101 and/or of the second coupling element 102 . In particular, the minimum thickness is considered along a circumference of the closure assembly) .

The first and second coupling elements 101 , 102 are structured so as to have a hinge axis L around which the lid 8 can rotate with respect to the ring member . In particular, the lid 8 is rotated about the hinge axis L when moving from the closed condition to the open condition, and vice versa . It is noted that the lid 8 may move by both a rotation movement about the hinge axis L and a shi fting movement along the longitudinal axis E , when moving from the closed condition to the open condition and vice versa .

The lid 8 when being in the open condition is further rotatable about a twisting axis H . The twisting axis H is approximately orthogonal to the hinge axis L . Preferably, the twisting axis H is also approximately orthogonal to the longitudinal axis E . By rotating about the twisting axis H, the lid 8 is arrangeable in a temporary locking position, in which the first rim 27 of the lid 8 rests , at least partially, against the outer threaded portion 140 of the collar . The temporary locking position is a stable position .

The lid 8 when arranged in the temporary locking position is positioned on a side of the collar 14 . Seen in a plant view ( such as in figure 9 ) , the pouring outlet is completely free i . e . the lid 8 is completely out thereof . In such a way, the lid 8 does not interfere with the outflow of the product .

In particular, the closure assembly is designed such that the user starting from a closed condition performs the following actions , in sequence :

1 ) Rotating the lid 8 relative to the collar 14 about the longitudinal axis E , so to unscrew the lid 8 from the collar 14 and moving said lid 8 from the closed condition to the open condition,

2 ) In the open condition, rotating the lid 8 relative to the collar 14 about the hinge axis L, and simultaneously ( slightly) shi fting the lid 8 along the longitudinal axis E , so to move the lid 8 partially out of the pouring opening ( in an intermediate position illustrated in figures 5 and 6 ) , 3 ) Still in the open condition, rotating the lid 8 relative to the collar 14 about the twisting axis H, so to move the lid 8 into the temporary locked position ( illustrated in figures 7 , 8 and 9 ) ,

4 ) Pouring the product out of the container through the pouring outlet 15 .

In the closed condition a length of the first coupling element 101 is greater than a distance of the first end 101A of the first coupling element 101 from the second end 101B of the first coupling element 101 and a length of the second coupling element 102 is greater than a distance of the first end 102A of the second coupling element 102 from the second end 102B of the second coupling element 102 . Such a length of the first and second coupling elements 101 , 102 , in combination with an appropriate choice of the materials and elasticity of the first and second coupling elements 101 , 102 , allows that the lid 8 be twisted about the twisting axis H and arranged in the temporary locked position .

In the open condition, before rotating the lid 8 about the twisting axis H, the first coupling element 101 , the second coupling element 102 , the first rim 27 of the lid 8 and the second rim 29 of the ring member 9 delimit an aperture . In particular, the aperture has a bottom border defined by the second rim 29 , an upper border defined by the first rim 27 and a pair of lateral borders defined by the first and second coupling elements 101 , 102 . The twisting axis H passes through said aperture . This aperture is visible , for example , in figure 5 .

Preferably, in the temporary locking position of the lid 8 , the first rim 27 of the l id 8 is arranged at least partially below the outer threaded portion 140 along the longitudinal axis E ( i . e . , the first rim 27 of the lid 8 is closer to the coupling base 16 than at least a portion of the outer threaded portion 140 ) . In particular, the elasticity of the first and second coupling elements 101 , 102 which have been twisted about the twisting axis H, push the lid 8 away from the coupling base 16 , while the outer threaded portion 140 provides an obstacle so that the first rim 27 is pressed against the outer threaded portion 140 and the lid 8 is kept in the temporary locking position .

It should be noted that , since lid 8 can be rotated together with the ring 9 about longitudinal axis E , and since the outer threaded portion 140 extends at 360 degrees about the longitudinal axis E , the lid 8 may be arranged in the temporary locking position all about the longitudinal axis E . That is , the lid 8 is arrangeable in a number of temporary locking positions all about the longitudinal axis E .

Preferably, in the temporary locking position of the lid 8 , the lid 8 rests on a plane tilted at an angle with respect to a plane orthogonal to said longitudinal E . Said angle is preferably between 5 and 60 degrees , even more preferably between 10 and 30 degrees . Consequently, a lid axis G ( about which the first rim 27 is circumferentially extended) is inclined at said angle with respect to the longitudinal axis E .

Preferably, in the temporary locking position of the lid 8 , an inner face of the top wall 25 of the l id 8 faces the coupling base 16 . When the lid 8 is in the closed condition, said inner face of the top wall 25 faces the pouring outlet 15 .

The present disclosure also provides a method for opening closure assembly 3 applied on container 1 filled with a pourable product . Closure assembly 3 is according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure . The method comprising the following steps :

- rotating the lid 8 relative to the collar 14 about the longitudinal axis E so to move the lid 8 from the closed condition in which it is fastened to the collar 14 to the open condition in which it uncoupled from the collar 14 ;

- while rotating the lid 8 about the longitudinal axi s E , control the cutting device 18 through the control device from the rest position to the operative position; with the lid 8 being in the open condition, further rotating the lid 8 about twisting axis H so to arrange the lid 8 in the temporary locking position, in which the first rim 27 of the lid 8 rests , at least partially, against the outer threaded portion 140 of the collar 14 .

The advantages of closure assembly 3 according to the present invention will be clear from the foregoing description .

Firstly, the pos sibility to arrange the lid 8 in the temporary locking position ensures that the lid does not interfere with the outflow of the product out of the pouring outlet .

In particular, coupling elements 101 , 102 allow to damp any strain and/or stresses and/or forces acting on closure assembly 3 , in particular closing group 7 .

A further advantage has been observed in that the handling and/or operation of closure assembly 3 , in particular closing group 7 , is more consumer- friendly .

Furthermore , by providing for more than one connection element 101 , 102 it is possible to increase the tethering force between ring member 9 and lid 8 .

Another advantage is related to the mounting of closing group 7 onto collar 14 . In order to mount closing group 7 onto collar 14 , closing group 7 is forced onto collar 14 .

Thereby, connection elements 101 , 102 absorb at least some of the acting forces reducing thereby the risk of a possible deformation of collar 14 and/or container 1 and/or closing group 7 . In particular, each first engagement surface 44 and each second engagement surface 45 abut against lid 8 and ring member 9 , respectively .

The applicant has also observed that the speci fic formation of connection elements 101 , 102 allows to design longer-lasting molding tools with respect to connection elements 10 having other shapes . In particular, the speci fic conformation and si ze of connection elements 101 , 102 allow to provide for molding tools having portions defining connection elements 101 , 102 and which portions come along with dimensions which provide for a longer li fetime .

Furthermore , during unmolding of closing group 7 from the molding tool , first engagement surface 44 and second engagement surface 45 abut against lid 8 and ring member 9 , respectively, limiting thereby the deformation .

Clearly, changes may be made to container 1 and/or closure assembly 3 as described herein without , however, departing from the scope of protection as defined in the accompanying claims .

Claims

1.- A closure assembly (3) for a container (1) filled or fillable with a pourable product comprising at least: a collar (14) delimiting a pouring outlet (15) configured to allow for the outflow of the pourable product from the container, wherein the collar (14) extends about a longitudinal axis (E) and includes an outer threaded portion (140) ;

- a lid (8) having a first rim (27) and including an inner threaded portion, wherein the inner threaded portion and the outer threaded portion are configured to allow for fastening the lid (8) to the collar (14) by rotating the lid (8) relative to the collar (14) about the longitudinal axis (E) , wherein the lid (8) is arrangeable in a closed condition in which it is fastened to the collar (14) and in an open condition in which it uncoupled from the collar (14) ;

- a ring member (9) having a second rim (29) facing the first rim (27) ; a cutting device (18) configured to rupture a separation membrane sealing a pouring hole provided in the container;

- a control device configured to control the cutting device (18) from a rest position to an operative position in which the cutting device (18) is adapted to rupture the separation membrane, wherein the control device comprises control flaps (19) connected to the lid (8) ;

- a first and a second coupling elements (101, 102) , angularly distanced from each other and each having a first end (101A, 102A) connected to the first rim (27) of the lid (8) and a second end (101B, 102B) connected to the second rim (29) of the ring member (9) ; said first and second coupling elements (101, 102) being structured so as to have a hinge axis (L) around which the lid (8) can rotate with respect to the ring member (9) , wherein the lid (8) , in the open condition, is further rotatable about a twisting axis (H) approximately orthogonal to the hinge axis (L) so that the lid (8) is arrangeable in a temporary locking position, in which the first rim (27) of the lid (8) rests, at least partially, against the outer threaded portion (140) of the collar (14) , wherein the temporary locking position is a stable position.

2.- A closure assembly (3) according to claim 1, wherein in the closed condition a length of the first coupling element (101) is greater than a distance of the first end (101A) of the first coupling element (101) from the second end (101B) of the first coupling element (101) and a length of the second coupling element (102) is greater than a distance of the first end (102A) of the second coupling element (102) from the second end (102B) of the second coupling element (102) .

3. Closure assembly (3) according to claim 2, wherein each of the first and second coupling element (101, 102) comprises :

- one respective intermediate portion (35) ;

- one respective first curved portion (36) connected to the first rim (27) and the intermediate portion (35) ; and

- one respective second curved portion (37) connected to the second rim (29) and the intermediate portion (35) ; wherein the intermediate portion (35) is inclined with respect to the first rim (27) of the lid (8) and/or the second rim (29) of the ring member (9) , wherein, in each of the first and second coupling element (101, 102) , the first curved portion (36) is connected to the first rim (27) at the first end (101A, 102A) and the second curved portion (37) is connected to the second rim (29) at the second end (101B, 102B) .

4. Closure assembly (3) according to claim 3, wherein the first rim (27) has a first surface (28) ; wherein the second rim (29) has a second surface (30) facing the first surface (28) ; wherein each first curved portion (36) is connected to the first surface (28) and each second curved portion (36) is connected to the second surface (30) ; wherein each intermediate portion (35) is inclined with respect to the first surface (28) and/or the second surface (30) , wherein each first curved portion (36) is convex with respect to the ring member (9) and each second curved portion (37) is concave with respect to the ring member (9) .

5.- A closure assembly (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in the open condition, before rotating the lid (8) about the twisting axis (H) , the first coupling element (101) , the second coupling element (102) , the first rim (27) of the lid (8) and the second rim (29) of the ring member (9) delimit an aperture, wherein the twisting axis (H) passes through said aperture.

6.- A closure assembly (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the twisting axis (H) is approximately orthogonal to the longitudinal axis (E) .

7. A closure assembly (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first coupling element (101) and the second coupling element (102) are located within an angular sector having an angular extension, about the longitudinal axis (E) , in the range from 20 degrees to 90 degrees .

8. A closure assembly (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in the temporary locking position of the lid (8) , the first rim (27) of the lid (8) is arranged at least partially below the outer threaded portion, along the longitudinal axis (E) .

9. A closure assembly (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in the temporary locking position of the lid (8) , the lid (8) rests on a plane tilted at an angle with respect to a plane orthogonal to said longitudinal axis (E ) .

10. A closure assembly (3) according to claim 9, wherein said angle ranges between 5 degrees and 60 degrees, preferably between 10 degrees and 30 degrees.

11. A closure assembly (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device further comprises interaction elements (20) connected to cutting device (18) and a cam mechanism (21) partially associated to the cutting device (18) and partially associated to the collar ( 14 ) .

12. A closure assembly (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a coupling base (16) carrying the collar (14) and being configured to be coupled to an outer surface of a main body (2) of the container (1) , wherein at least a portion of the coupling base (16) has a plate-like configuration, wherein the lid (8) comprises a top wall (25) configured to cover the pouring outlet (15) with lid (8) being in the closed condition, and a side wall (26) protruding from the top wall (25) , wherein the top wall (25) has an inner face facing the pouring outlet (15) with lid (8) being in the closed condition, wherein in the temporary locking position of the lid (8) , the inner face of the top wall (25) faces towards the coupling base (16) .

13. A closure assembly (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a tamper-evidence ring (12) and at least one rupturable coupling bridge (13) designed to rupturably connect and/or rupturably connecting the ring member (9) and the tamper-evidence ring (12) to one another .

14.- Container (1) for a pourable product comprising at least one main body (2) being filled or being fillable with the pourable product and at least one closure assembly (3) according to any one of the preceding claims.

15.- Method for opening a closure assembly (3) applied on a container (1) filled with a pourable product, wherein the closure assembly (3) comprises: a collar (14) delimiting a pouring outlet (15) configured to allow for the outflow of the pourable product from the container, wherein the collar (14) extends about a longitudinal axis (E) and includes an outer threaded portion (140) ;

- a lid (8) having a first rim (27) and including an inner threaded portion;

- a ring member (9) having a second rim (29) facing the first rim (27) ;

- a cutting device (18) ; a control device comprising control flaps (19) connected to the lid (8) ;

- a first and a second coupling elements (101, 102) , angularly distanced from each other and each having a first end (101A, 102A) connected to the first rim (27) of the lid (8) and a second end (101B, 102B) connected to the second rim (29) of the ring member (9) ; the method comprising the following steps:

- rotating the lid (8) relative to the collar (14) about the longitudinal axis (E) so to move the lid (8) from a closed condition in which it is fastened to the collar (14) to an open condition in which it uncoupled from the collar (14) ;

- while rotating the lid (8) about the longitudinal axis (E) , control the cutting device (18) through the control device from a rest position to an operative position in which the cutting device (18) ruptures a separation membrane sealing a pouring hole provided in the container;

- with the lid (8) being in the open condition, further rotating the lid (8) about a twisting axis (H) approximately orthogonal to the hinge axis (L) so to arrange the lid (8) in a temporary locking position, in which the first rim (27) of the lid (8) rests, at least partially, against the outer threaded portion (140) of the collar (14) , wherein the temporary locking position is a stable position.