FLIP-TOP TAMPER-EVIDENT CLOSURE AND A PACKAGE

Abstract

A tamper-evident, flip-top closure includes first and second closure portions. The first closure portion includes a top wall portion, a sidewall, and at least one tamper-evident wing. The sidewall encompasses and extends from the top wall portion. The tamper-evident wing is detachably connected to the sidewall via a frangible connection. The second closure portion includes a top wall portion and an annular skirt portion encompassing and extending from the top wall portion of the second closure portion. The top wall portion of the second closure portion forms at least one recess that receives the tamper-evident wing therein. The hinge connects the first and second closure portions. During movement of the hinge from the initial closed position to an open position, the frangible connection breaks leaving the tamper-evident wing being securely engaged within the at least one recess.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a polymeric closure for a package. More specifically, the present invention relates to a polymeric closure that is a flip-top closure with tamper-evidency.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Polymeric closures have been used in many applications over the years in conjunction with containers. One type of polymeric closure that has been used with containers is a tamper-evident polymeric closure. Tamper-evident closures are used to prevent or inhibit tampering by providing a visible indication to a user if the closure has been opened.

Some tamper-evident features for flip-top closures include the use of a foil or induction liner, or tear-member mechanisms. The lining is located on a top surface of the finish on the container. The use of foil liners tends to be expensive and also requires additional manufacturing steps in forming the package. Additionally, some users, especially those with upper extremity limitations, may have difficulty in manually removing the tamper-evident liners. The removal also may sometimes require using sharp utensils to cut from the finish when the liner is not easily peeled off. The use of liners also does not assist in post-consumer recycling efforts when the liners are not completely removed because the liners are almost always made from different materials than the closures and containers.

It would be desirable to provide a closure and package that overcomes such problems, while still performing desirable properties of a closure and package including providing tamper-evidency.

SUMMARY

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a tamper-evident, flip-top closure includes a first closure portion, a second closure portion, and at least one hinge. The first closure portion includes a polymeric top wall portion, a sidewall, and at least one tamper-evident wing. The sidewall encompasses and extends from the polymeric top wall portion of the first closure portion. The at least one tamper-evident wing is detachably connected to the sidewall via a frangible connection. The second closure portion includes a polymeric top wall portion and a polymeric annular skirt portion encompassing and extending from the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion. The polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion forms at least one recess. The at least one recess is configured to receive the at least one tamper-evident wing therein. The at least one hinge connects the first closure portion and the second closure portion. During movement of the at least one hinge from the initial closed position to an open position, the frangible connection breaks leaving the at least one tamper-evident wing being securely engaged within the at least one recess of the second closure portion.

According to a configuration of the above implementation, the at least one tamper-evident wing drops below an upper surface of the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion after the frangible connection breaks.

According to a further configuration of the above implementation, the at least one tamper-evident wing is a plurality of tamper-evident wings and the at least one recess is a plurality of recesses. During movement of the hinge from the initial closed position to an open position, the frangible connection breaks leaving the plurality of tamper-evident wings being securely engaged within a respective one of the plurality of recesses.

In a further aspect of the above implementation, the at least one tamper-evident wing includes an extension on one end thereof that assists in preventing or inhibiting removal of the at least one tamper-evident wing from a remainder of the flip-top closure.

In yet a further aspect of the above implementation, the at least one recess is formed by an inwardly tapering inner wall. The inwardly tapering inner wall assists in securely engaging with the at least one tamper-evident wing.

According to a configuration of the above implementation, the at least one recess is formed by an inner wall having an inwardly-extending flange. The inwardly-extending flange assists in securely engaging with the at least one tamper-evident wing.

According to a configuration of the above implementation, the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion includes a first top wall section, a second top wall section, and a third top wall section. The second top wall section is located between the first and third top wall sections. The first and third top wall sections are vertically spaced from the second top wall section. In a further implementation, the second top wall section forms an opening to enable access to an interior of the flip-top closure.

According to a further configuration of the above implementation, a cross-sectional of the at least one tamper-evident wing is in the general shape of the letter “E”.

In a further aspect of the above implementation, the flip-top closure is a snap-on closure.

In yet a further aspect of the above implementation, the at least one hinge is a plurality of hinges.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a package includes a container and a flip-top closure. The container has a neck portion defining an opening. The flip-top closure is configured for fitment into the neck portion of the container for closing the opening of the container. The flip-top closure includes a first closure portion, a second closure portion, and at least one hinge. The first closure portion includes a polymeric top wall portion, a sidewall, and at least one tamper-evident wing. The sidewall encompasses and extends from the polymeric top wall portion of the first closure portion. The at least one tamper-evident wing is detachably connected to the sidewall via a frangible connection. The second closure portion includes a polymeric top wall portion and a polymeric annular skirt portion encompassing and extending from the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion. The polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion forms at least one recess. The at least one recess is configured to receive the at least one tamper-evident wing therein. The at least one hinge connects the first closure portion and the second closure portion. During movement of the at least one hinge from the initial closed position to an open position, the frangible connection breaks leaving the at least one tamper-evident wing being securely engaged within the at least one recess of the second closure portion.

According to a configuration of the above implementation, an interior surface of the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion forms a locking projection to assist in preventing or inhibiting removal of the flip-top closure from the container.

According to a further configuration of the above implementation, the at least one tamper-evident wing drops below an upper surface of the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion after the frangible connection breaks.

In a further aspect of the above implementation, the at least one tamper-evident wing is a plurality of tamper-evident wing and the at least one recess is a plurality of recesses. During movement of the hinge from the initial closed position to an open position, the frangible connection breaks leaving the plurality of tamper-evident wings being securely engaged within a respective one of the plurality of recesses.

In yet a further aspect of the above implementation, the at least one tamper-evident wing includes an extension on one end thereof that assists in preventing or inhibiting removal of the at least one tamper-evident wing from a remainder of the flip-top closure.

According to a configuration of the above implementation, the at least one recess is formed by an inwardly tapering inner wall. The inwardly tapering inner wall assists in securely engaging with the at least one tamper-evident wing.

According to a configuration of the above implementation, the at least one recess is formed by an inner wall having an inwardly-extending flange. The inwardly-extending flange assists in securely engaging with the at least one tamper-evident wing.

According to a further configuration of the above implementation, a cross-sectional of the at least one tamper-evident wing is in the general shape of the letter “E”.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, a tamper-evident, flip-top closure includes a first closure portion, a second closure portion, and at least one hinge. The first closure portion includes a polymeric top wall portion, a sidewall, and at least one tamper-evident wing. The sidewall encompasses and extends from the polymeric top wall portion. The at least one tamper-evident wing is detachably connected to the sidewall via a frangible connection. The at least-one tamper-evident wing is outwardly tapered. The second closure portion includes a polymeric top wall portion and a polymeric annular skirt portion encompassing and extending from the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion. The polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion forms at least one recess. The at least one recess is configured to receive the at least one tamper-evident wing therein. The at least one hinge connects the first closure portion and the second closure portion. During movement of the at least one hinge from the initial closed position to an open position, the frangible connection breaks leaving the at least one tamper-evident wing being securely engaged within the at least one recess of the second closure portion.

The above summary is not intended to represent each embodiment or every aspect of the present invention. Additional features and benefits of the present invention are apparent from the detailed description and figures set forth below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon reference to the drawings in which:

FIG. 1A is a top perspective view of a flip-top closure in an initially open position (as molded) according to one embodiment.

FIG. 1B is an enlarged view of generally oval area FIG. 1B in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the flip-top closure of FIG. 1A in an initial closed position.

FIG. 3A is a top perspective view of the flip-top closure of FIG. 1A after being moved from the closed position of FIG. 2 to an open position.

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view (without cross-hatching) taken generally along line 3B-3B in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a container according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5A is a top perspective view of a package including the flip-top closure of FIG. 1A and the container of FIG. 4 in an initial closed position according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5B is a top perspective view of the package of FIG. 5A in an open position after being moved from the closed position of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C is a top perspective view of the package of FIG. 5A in the closed position after being opened by a user.

FIG. 5D is an enlarged view of the top portion of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5E is an enlarged view of the top portion of FIG. 5B.

FIG. 5F is an enlarged view of the top portion of FIG. 5C.

FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 6A-6A in FIG. 5D.

FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 6B-6B in FIG. 5E.

FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 6C-6C in FIG. 5F.

FIG. 6D is an enlarged view of generally circular area FIG. 6D in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6E is an enlarged view of generally circular area FIG. 6E in FIG. 6C.

FIG. 7A is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a package including a flip-top closure according to another embodiment and the container of FIG. 4 in an initial closed position.

FIG. 7B is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the package of FIG. 7A in a closed position after having being opened by a user.

FIG. 8A is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a package including a flip-top closure according to a further embodiment and the container of FIG. 4 in an initial closed position.

FIG. 8B is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the package of FIG. 8A in a closed position after having being opened by a user.

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1A-3B illustrate a polymeric flip-top closure 10 according to one embodiment. FIG. 1A illustrates the polymeric flip-top closure 10 in an initial open position (as molded) in a top perspective view. FIG. 2 illustrates the polymeric flip-top closure 10 in an initial closed position in a top perspective view. FIGS. 3A, 3B illustrate the polymeric flip-top closure 10 in an open position after being moved from a closed position in top perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively. The polymeric flip-top closure 10 is generally cylindrically shaped.

The polymeric flip-top closures of the present invention are configured to be placed on a container or bottle that contain product. More specifically, the polymeric flip-top closures of the present invention are configured for fitment onto a neck portion or finish of the container for closing the opening of the container, and in one embodiment is desirably configured to be extremely difficult to remove therefrom. A non-limiting example of a container that may be used with the polymeric flip-top closure 10 is shown with a container 108 in FIG. 4. The polymeric flip-top closure 10 is used with the container 108 to form a package. One such package (package 100) is shown and discussed in detail below with respect to FIGS. 5A-6E. The product contained in the package is typically a liquid product, but also may be a solid product or a combination of a liquid and solid product.

The polymeric flip-top closure is desirably configured to remain with the container in one embodiment, which reduces environmental waste when the package is recycled. It is also desirable for the container to be made of the same material as the polymeric flip-top closure to assist in post-consumer recycling. The polymeric flip-top closure is desirably lightweight and the container to be used with the polymeric flip-top closure is also desirably lightweight. By being lightweight, the design of the polymeric flip-top closure aids in significantly reducing material usage in the package.

The polymeric flip-top closure 10 of FIGS. 1A-3B is a snap-on closure. The polymeric flip-top closure 10 includes a first closure portion 12 and a second closure portion 14. The first and second closure portions 12, 14 are connected via a hinge 70, as will be discussed below.

The first closure portion includes at least one tamper-evident wing or ear in one embodiment. The at least one tamper-evident wing or ear is detachably connected to a remainder of the first closure portion via a frangible connection.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 1A-3B, the first closure portion 12 includes a polymeric top wall portion or middle section 18, a sidewall 20, and first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b. The sidewall 20 encompasses and extends from the polymeric top wall portion 18. The polymeric top wall portion 18 includes an exterior surface 18a and an interior surface 18b. The sidewall 20 includes an exterior surface 20a and an interior surface 20b.

Specifically, in this embodiment, the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b extend outwardly from the sidewall 20. The first and second tamper-evident winged sections 22a, 22b are located on opposing ends of the first closure portion 12 as shown, for example, in FIG. 1A. The first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b are in the general shape of an elongated letter “D” as shown, for example, in FIG. 1A. Each of the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b is formed from a generally flat section with two opposing legs extending therefrom and is in a shape of the letter “E”. This is shown best in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 3B. It is contemplated that the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears may be of other shapes and sizes.

Referring back to FIG. 1B, the length L1 of the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b is from about 0.4 inch to about 1.2 inch and, more specifically, from about 0.6 inch to about 1.0 inch. The height H1 of the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b is from about 0.1 inch to about 0.6 inch and, more specifically, from about 0.2 inch to about 0.5 inch.

The first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b are detachably connected to the sidewall 20 via at respective frangible connections 34a, 34b. The plurality of frangible connections 34b connecting the second tamper-evident wings or ears 22b are shown in FIG. 1B with exactly three frangible connections. The plurality of frangible connections 34a also have three frangible connections (not shown). It is contemplated that the number of frangible connections may vary in other embodiments.

The plurality of frangible connections 34a, 34b may be formed by molded-in-bridges in one embodiment. In this embodiment, the molded-in-bridges are formed using a feature in the mold. The plurality of frangible connections is in the form of scoring or scored lines, notches, leaders, nicks or other lines of weaknesses.

Referring to FIGS. 6A-6E, each of first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b forms a respective extension 24a, 24b. The extensions 24a, 24b extend outwardly from the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b. The extensions may be in different forms and shapes including, but not limited to, a knob and an undercut. The extensions 24a, 24b are located in this embodiment at one end of the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b The extensions 24a, 24b assist in preventing or inhibiting removal of the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b in an upward direction (in the direction of arrow B in FIGS. 6D, 6E). It is contemplated that the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears may have other features to prevent or inhibit removal of the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears in an upward direction.

The first closure portion 12 further includes a plug 36 to assist in forming a plug seal between the first closure portion 12 and the second closure portion 14 when in the closed position. The plug 36 is located in a general center of the interior surface 18b of the polymeric top wall portion 18. It is contemplated that the plug may be formed in other locations on the interior surface of the polymeric top wall portion, but would still need to be located to correspond with an opening formed in the second closure portion.

Referring back to FIG. 1A, it is contemplated that the first closure portion 12 may include a lifting aid 38 to assist a user in opening the first closure portion 12 with respect to the second closure portion 14. The lifting aid may be a lifting extension or a lifting indentation that assists a user in opening the first closure portion with respect to the second closure portion. When a lifting aid is used, it is desirably shaped and sized for a user to grasp or contact when opening the polymeric flip-top closure. The lifting aid would be located generally opposite of the hinge.

It is contemplated that the first closure portion may include exactly one tamper-evident wings or ears instead of the plurality of tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b shown in, for example, FIG. 1A.

The second closure portion 14 includes a polymeric top wall portion 40 and a polymeric annular skirt portion 50 encompassing and extending from the polymeric top wall portion 40. The polymeric top wall portion 40 includes a first top wall section 42, a second top wall section 44, and a third top wall section 46. The second top wall section 44 is located between the first and third top wall sections 42, 46. At least one of the first and third top wall sections forms a recess in one embodiment. Specifically, in this embodiment, the first top wall section 42 forms a recess 60a and the third top wall section 46 forms a recess 60b as shown in FIG. 1A.

The first and the third top wall sections 42, 46 are vertically spaced from the second top wall section 44 by respective heights (only height H2 is shown in FIG. 1A). The height H2 is from about 0.1 inch to about 0.5 inch and, more specifically, the height H2 of from about 0.25 inch to about 0.35 inch. The opposing height on the first top wall section 42 is not shown, but would typically be the same as height H2.

In this embodiment, inner walls 48a, 48b assist in forming the secure engagement with a respective one of the plurality of tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b. Specifically, the inner walls 48a, 48b are inwardly tapering so as to assist in forming the secure engagement with a respective one of the plurality of tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b. The inner walls 48a, 48b assist in preventing or inhibiting removal of the plurality of tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b from the remainder of the flip-top closure. This is shown best in FIGS. 6D, 6E.

The recesses 60a, 60b are configured to receive the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b, respectively, to from a tamper-evident structure indicating that the container may have been accessed. The first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b are configured to drop a certain distance after the frangible connections 34a, 34b are broken, indicating that the polymeric flip-top closure 10 has been opened. This is shown by comparing FIGS. 6D, 6E with a distance D1 shown in FIG. 6E. The distance D1 is the distance that the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b have dropped when being moved from an initial closed position to an open position. The distance D1 remains the same when a user then moves the polymeric flip-top closure back to the closed position. The distance D1 is generally from about 0.01 inch to about 0.2 inch and, is typically from about 0.02 inch to about 0.1 inch. More specifically in another embodiment, the distance D1 is from about 0.02 to about 0.08 inch, or from about 0.03 inch to about 0.06 inch.

The inwardly tapering of the inner walls 48a, 48b prevents or inhibits the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b from dropping into an interior of the polymeric flip-top closure 10. This dropping indicates to a user that the flip-top closure has been opened and provides the tamper-evidence. Spacing 78b in FIG. 6D is formed between the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b and the respective inner walls 48a, 48b and the degree of inwardly tapering of the inner walls 48a, 48b determines the distance that the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b will drop after being moved from an initial closed position to an open position. As discussed above, the extensions 24a, 24b assist in preventing or inhibiting removal of the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b in an upward direction (in the direction of arrow B in FIGS. 6D, 6E).

The shapes of the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b substantially conform or identically conform with the shape of the recesses 60a, 60b (FIG. 1A). As discussed above, the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b are slightly smaller so as to leave spacing from the respective inner walls 48a, 48b that allows for the dropping of the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b.

Referring back to FIGS. 1A, 3A, 3B, the second top wall section 44 includes the exterior surface 44a and an interior surface 44b. The second top wall section 44 forms an opening 52 through the second closure portion 14 that enables access to an interior of the polymeric flip-top closure 10 and ultimately to access the contents of the container. The opening 52 is formed in a truncated frustoconical structure 54. The truncated frustoconical structure 54 is formed on the exterior surface 44a of the second top wall section 44. The opening 52 is in a generally circular shape and is sized and shaped to receive the plug 36 therein. The shape of the opening 52 desirably assists a user in allowing the contents to be smoothly and controllable poured or accessed from the container. It is contemplated that the opening and the structure, if any, for forming the opening may be shaped and sized differently than depicted in FIG. 1A. Some non-limiting examples of shapes that may form an opening include generally oval or tear-dropped.

Referring to FIGS. 3B, 6D, 6E, the interior surface 44b of the second top wall section 44 includes structure for sealing with a container. Specifically, an inner seal 56 and an outer seal 58 is formed on the interior surface 44b and each extends downwardly therefrom. The inner and outer seals 56, 58 assist in further preventing or inhibiting air, moisture or other potential contaminants from contacting the contents in the container. The inner and outer seals 56, 58 are formed in a generally circular shape. In one embodiment, a squeezable seal 86 may be added. The squeezable seal 86 assists in providing a seal with the opening 52 in addition to the plug seal with the plug 36.

It is contemplated that other sealing mechanisms may be used, if desirable, to prevent or inhibit air, moisture or other potential contaminants from contacting the contents in the container.

The interior surface 44b of the second top wall section 44 further includes a locking projection 64 that extends downwardly therefrom. The locking projection 64 has an end 64a thereof shaped in a form of a hook as shown best in FIGS. 6D, 6E. The locking projection works in conjunction with an A-collar on a neck of the container to prevent or inhibit removal of the polymeric, flip-top closure 10 from the container. The removal is very difficult and would invariably leave damage marks on the polymeric flip-top closure indicating to a user that the flip-top closure has been tampered with.

In this embodiment, the package is formed by snapping the polymeric flip-top closure onto the container. It is noted that there would need to be a plunging force applied to the polymeric flip-top closure to overcome the interference of the locking projection over the A-collar of the container.

Referring to FIGS. 1A, 2, 3A, the second closure portion 14 includes a contoured area 66 that enables a user to more easily grasp the first closure portion 12 for movement from a closed position to an open position. It is contemplated that the contoured area may be shaped differently than depicted in FIGS. 1A, 2, 3A.

The process of opening the polymeric flip-top closure is shown in the figures. Specifically, FIG. 1A is a top perspective view of the polymeric flip-top closure 10 in an initial open (as molded) position. The polymeric flip-top closure 10 is moved from the initial open position in FIG. 1A to the closed position of FIG. 2. This is typically the position in which the polymeric flip-top closure 10 is placed or located on the neck of the container. FIG. 3A shows the polymeric flip-top closure 10 in an open position after being moved from a closed position after breaking of the frangible connections 34a, 34b. The first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b are no longer attached to the first closure portion 12, but remain securely engaged with the second closure portion 14.

As shown in FIG. 3B, the height H3 of the first closure portion 12 is generally from about 0.08 to about 0.20 inch and, more specifically, from about 0.1 to about 0.15 inch. The height H4 of the second closure portion 14 is generally from about 0.25 to about 0.75 inch and, more specifically, from about 0.35 to about 0.65 inch. The height H3 of the first closure portion 12 is less than the height H4 of the second closure portion 14 in this embodiment. The height H4 of the second closure portion 14 is also the height of the polymeric flip-top closure 10.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the hinge 70 connects the first closure portion 12 and the second closure portion 14. The hinge 70 is shown in its unfolded position in FIG. 1A and its in folded position in FIG. 2. The hinge 70 is flexible in that it can be moved from an unfolded position to a folded position. In this embodiment, the hinge 70 is a plurality of hinges 70a, 70b. It is contemplated that other hinge types may be used. In another example, the hinge may be continuous and as one integral component. One non-limiting example of a hinge that may be used is a butterfly hinge. The selected hinges to connect the first and second closure portions may have thinner and thicker sections. It is also contemplated that the hinge may be tethered.

A neck portion or finish 102 of the container 108 is shown in FIG. 4. The container 108 is used with the polymeric flip-top closure 10 in one embodiment. The container 108 includes the neck portion 102 that defines an opening 114. The neck portion 102 has an exterior surface 102a and an interior surface 102b (shown in FIGS. 6D, 6E). Referring back to FIG. 4, the neck portion 102 of the container 108 includes an A-collar 106. The A-collar 106 works in conjunction with the locking projection 64 of the polymeric flip-top closure 10 to prevent or inhibit removal of the polymeric flip-top closure 10 from the container 108. The neck portion 102 also includes a continuous ring 110 that is located further from the opening 114 than the A-collar 106. The continuous 110 assists in moving the container around during the manufacturing process and providing support in the capping process.

The container 108 is typically made of polymeric material. The container 108 may be made of a polyolefin (e.g., polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP)) or blends thereof. One example of a polyethylene that may be used is high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), or the combination thereof. It is contemplated that the container may be formed of other polymeric or copolymer materials. As mentioned above, it is desirable for the container 108 and the polymeric flip-top closure 10 be made of the same material to assist in post-consumer recycling.

FIG. 5A shows the polymeric flip-top closure 10 and the container 108 of the package 100 in a closed position. To open the container 108 and gain access to the product therein, the first closure portion 12 is initially flipped with respect to the second closure portion 14. A user grasps the first closure portion 12 and moves the same in the general direction of arrow A as shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B. This movement is in an upwardly and outwardly direction from the contoured area 66. During this movement along arrow A from its initial closed position (FIG. 5A) to an open position (FIG. 5B), the plurality of frangible connections 34a, 34b is broken. The plurality of frangible connections 34a, 34b must be broken before the polymeric flip-top portion 10 can be moved to an open position from its initial closed position.

After the plurality of frangible connections 34a, 34b is broken, the plurality of first and second tamper-evident winged sections 22a, 22b remain securely engaged with respective inner walls 48a, 48b. This position of the package 100 is best shown in the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 6B, 6C. The plurality of first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b is separated from the remainder of the first closure portion 12, which provides tamper-evidency to a user when plurality of first and second tamper-evident wings or ears 22a, 22b is dropped below upper surfaces of the first and third top wall sections 42, 46. Once in the open, flipped position, a user may gain access to the contents of the container.

The rotation of the first closure portion to the second closure portion in one embodiment is from about 150 to 270 degrees. In another embodiment, the rotation of the first closure portion to the second closure portion in one embodiment is from about 150 to 225 degrees. In a further embodiment, the rotation of the first closure portion to the second closure portion in one embodiment is from about 150 to 180 degrees.

Referring to FIG. 7A, 7B, another embodiment of a polymeric flip-top closure is shown with a polymeric flip-top closure 210. The polymeric flip-top closure 210 is shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B with the container 108 and forms a package 200. The polymeric flip-top closure 210 functions in the same or similar manner as the polymeric flip-top closure 10 described above. FIG. 7A shows the polymeric flip-top closure 210 in an initial closed position and FIG. 7B shows the polymeric flip-top closure 210 in a closed position after having been opened. The polymeric flip-top closure 210 includes a first closure portion 212 and a second closure portion 214. The first closure portion 212 includes a polymeric top wall portion or middle section 218, a sidewall 220, and first and second tamper-evident wings or ears (only tamper-evident wing 222b is shown). The tamper-evident wing or ear 222b is attached in FIG. 7A to the sidewall 220 via frangible connections 234b. The first closure portion 212 is identical to the first closure portion 12 described above.

Extension 224b assists in preventing or inhibiting removal of the second tamper-evident wing or ear 222b in an upward direction. Another extension (not shown) assists in preventing or inhibiting removal of the first tamper-evident wing or ear in an upward direction.

The second closure portion 214 includes a polymeric top wall portion 240 and a polymeric annular skirt portion 250 encompassing and extending from the polymeric top wall portion 240. The polymeric top wall portion 240 includes a first top wall section (not shown), a second top wall section 244, and a third top wall section 246. The second top wall section 244 is located between the first top wall section (not shown) and the third top wall section 246. The third top wall section 246 is spaced from the second top wall section 244.

The second closure portion 214 is identical to the second closure portion 14 except for the configuration of the inner walls. Instead of the inner walls being sloped inwardly, inner wall 248b in FIGS. 7A, 7B extends generally downwardly and includes an inwardly-extending flange at an end further from a top surface 246a of the third top wall section. The inwardly-extending flange may be different forms including a knob. It is contemplated that other forms and shapes may be used for the inwardly-extending flange of the inner wall.

As shown in FIG. 7B, the inwardly-extending flange 280 prevents or inhibits the tamper-evident wing or ear 222b from dropping into an interior of the polymeric flip-top closure 210. After being dropped, an outwardly-extending extension 224c contacts the inwardly-extending flange 280. The dropped tamper-evident wing or ear 222b of FIG. 7B indicates to a user that the closure has been opened. This is shown as distance D2 in FIG. 7B. The distance D2 is similar or the same to the distance D1 discussed above. The other inner wall of the first top wall section is identical to the inner wall 248b described above and also extends inwardly to prevent or inhibit the other tamper-evident wing or ear from dropping into an interior of the polymeric flip-top closure 210.

Referring to FIGS. 8A, 8B, a further embodiment of a polymeric flip-top closure is shown with polymeric flip-top closure 310. The polymeric flip-top closure 310 is shown in FIGS. 8A, 8B with the container 108 and forms a package 300. The polymeric flip-top closure 310 functions in the same or similar manner as the polymeric flip-top closure 10 described above. FIG. 8A shows the polymeric flip-top closure 310 in an initial closed position and FIG. 8B shows the polymeric flip-top closure 310 in a closed position after having been opened. The polymeric flip-top closure 310 includes a first closure portion 312 and a second closure portion 314. The first closure portion 312 includes a polymeric top wall portion or middle section 318, a sidewall 320, and first and second tamper-evident wings or ears (only tamper-evident wing 322b is shown). The tamper-evident wing or ear 322b is attached in FIG. 8A to the sidewall 320 via frangible connections 334b.

The first closure portion 312 is identical to the first closure portion 12 described above, except for the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears. The first and second tamper-evident wings or ears taper outwardly to assist in preventing or inhibiting the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears from dropping into an interior of the polymeric flip-top closure 310. Specifically, the second tamper-evident wing or ear 322b tapers outwardly, which, as shown in FIG. 8B, assists in stopping the second tamper-evident wing or ear from dropping into an interior of the polymeric flip-top closure 310. The dropped tamper-evident wing or ear 322b of FIG. 8B indicates to a user that the polymeric flip-top closure 310 has been opened. This is shown as distance D3 in FIG. 8B. The distance D3 is similar or the same to the distance D1 discussed above. Extension 324b assists in preventing or inhibiting removal of the second tamper-evident wing or ear 322b in an upward direction. Another extension (not shown) assists in preventing or inhibiting removal of the first tamper-evident wing or ear in an upward direction.

The second closure portion 314 includes a polymeric top wall portion 340 and a polymeric annular skirt portion 350 encompassing and extending from the polymeric top wall portion 340. The polymeric top wall portion 340 includes a first top wall section (not shown), a second top wall section 344 and a third top wall section 346. The second top wall section 344 is located between the first top wall section (not shown) and the third top wall section 346. The first top wall section and the third top wall section 346 is spaced from the second top wall section 344.

The second closure portion 314 is identical to the second closure portion 14 except for the configuration of the inner walls. Instead of the inner walls being sloped inwardly, the inner wall 348b in FIGS. 8A, 8B extends generally downwardly. The other inner wall of the first top wall section is identical to the inner wall 348b described above and also extends generally downwardly.

In yet another embodiment, it is contemplated that both inner wall and the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears may taper towards each other to prevent or inhibit the tamper-evident wings or ears from dropping into an interior of the polymeric flip-top closure after the polymeric flip-top closure has opened. In this embodiment, the inner walls would taper inwardly and the first and second tamper-evident wings or ears would taper outwardly.

The various polymeric flip-top closure embodiments described above may not be snap-on in other embodiments. In such embodiments, the polymeric flip-top closures may include threading to enable the flip-top closure to be threaded onto and unthreaded from a container. In such an embodiment, an external thread formation is included on the closure and is for mating engagement with an internal thread formation of a container. The external thread formation may be continuous threading. The external thread formation may also be a helical formation. It is contemplated that the external thread formation may be discontinuous. One non-limiting example is an external thread formation including a first closure lead and a second closure lead. It is also contemplated that the external thread formation of the closure may differ from a helical thread formation. It is also contemplated that other external thread formations may be used in the closure to mate with a corresponding internal thread formation of the container.

It is contemplated that other tamper-evident features may be used to prevent or inhibit access into the polymeric flip-top closure. These other potential tamper-evident features must be removed and/or broken, which leaves evidence of potential tampering or access into the container. One non-limiting example would be a shrink wrap that covers the flip-top closure.

The flip-top closures of the present invention may include an oxygen-scavenger material. This oxygen-scavenger material may be distributed within the closure or may be a separate layer. The oxygen-scavenger material may be any material that assists in removing oxygen within the container, while having little or no effect on the contents within the container.

Alternatively, or in addition to, the flip-top closures may include an oxygen-barrier material. The oxygen-barrier material may be added as a separate layer or may be integrated within the flip-top closure itself. The oxygen-barrier materials assist in preventing or inhibiting oxygen from entering the container through the flip-top closure. These materials may include, but are not limited to, ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH). It is contemplated that other oxygen-barrier materials may be used in the flip-top closure.

The polymeric flip-top closure 10 is typically made of a polyolefin (e.g., polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP)) or blends thereof. One example of a polyethylene that may be used is high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), or the combination thereof. It is contemplated that the flip-top closure may be made of other polymeric materials.

The polymeric flip-top closure is typically light weight. The polymeric flip-top closure is generally from about 2.5 to about 15 grams and typically is from about 3.5 to about 8 grams. In other embodiments, the polymeric flip-top closure is from about 5 to about 15 grams, or from about 7 to about 10 grams. The polymeric flip-top closure in a further embodiment is from about 4 to about 12 grams, or from about 6 to about 9 grams.

The polymeric flip-top closures are typically formed by processes such as injection or compression molding.

The polymeric flip-top closures of the present invention are desirable in both low-temperature and high-temperature applications. The polymeric flip-top closures may be used in low-temperature applications such as an ambient or a cold fill. These applications include aseptic applications such as dairy products, water, sports drinks, and pressurized products such as carbonated soft drinks. It is contemplated that other low-temperature applications may be used with the polymeric closures formed by the processes of the present invention.

The polymeric flip-top closures of the present invention may be exposed to high-temperature applications such as hot-fill, pasteurization, and retort applications. A hot fill application is generally performed at temperatures around 185° F., while a hot fill with pasteurization is generally performed at temperatures around 205° F. Retort applications are typically done at temperatures greater than 250° F. It is contemplated that the polymeric flip-top closures of the present invention can be used in other high-temperature applications.

While the foregoing written description of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above-described embodiment, method, and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A tamper-evident, flip-top closure, the closure comprising: a first closure portion including a polymeric top wall portion, a sidewall, and at least one tamper-evident wing, the sidewall encompassing and extending from the polymeric top wall portion of the first closure portion, the at least one tamper-evident wing being detachably connected to the sidewall via a frangible connection;a second closure portion including a polymeric top wall portion and a polymeric annular skirt portion encompassing and extending from the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion, the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion forming at least one recess, the at least one recess being configured to receive the at least one tamper-evident wing therein; andat least one hinge connecting the first closure portion and the second closure portion,wherein during movement of the at least one hinge from the initial closed position to an open position, the frangible connection breaks leaving the at least one tamper-evident wing being securely engaged within the at least one recess of the second closure portion.

2. The flip-top closure of claim 1, wherein after the frangible connection breaks, the at least one tamper-evident wing drops below an upper surface of the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion.

3. The flip-top closure of claim 1, wherein the at least one tamper-evident wing is a plurality of tamper-evident wings, wherein the at least one recess is a plurality of recesses, and wherein during movement of the hinge from the initial closed position to an open position, the frangible connection breaks leaving the plurality of tamper-evident wings being securely engaged within a respective one of the plurality of recesses.

4. The flip-top closure of claim 1, wherein the at least one tamper-evident wing includes an extension on one end thereof that assists in preventing or inhibiting removal of the at least one tamper-evident wing from a remainder of the flip-top closure.

5. The flip-top closure of claim 1, wherein the at least one recess is formed by an inwardly tapering inner wall, the inwardly tapering inner wall assisting in securely engaging with the at least one tamper-evident wing.

6. The flip-top closure of claim 1, wherein the at least one recess is formed by an inner wall having an inwardly-extending flange, the inwardly-extending flange assisting in securely engaging with the at least one tamper-evident wing.

7. The flip-top closure of claim 1, wherein the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion includes a first top wall section, a second top wall section, and a third top wall section, the second top wall section being located between the first and third top wall sections, the first and third top wall sections being vertically spaced from the second top wall section.

8. The flip-top closure of claim 7, wherein the second top wall section forms an opening to enable access to an interior of the flip-top closure.

9. The flip-top closure of claim 1, wherein a cross-sectional of the at least one tamper-evident wing is in the general shape of the letter “E”.

10. The flip-top closure of claim 1, wherein the flip-top closure is a snap-on closure.

11. The flip-top closure of claim 1, wherein the at least one hinge is a plurality of hinges.

12. A package comprising: a container having a neck portion defining an opening; anda flip-top closure being configured for fitment into the neck portion of the container for closing the opening of the container, the flip-top closure including a first closure portion, a second closure portion and at least one hinge, the first closure portion including a polymeric top wall portion, a sidewall, and at least one tamper-evident wing, the sidewall encompassing and extending from the polymeric top wall portion of the first closure, the at least one tamper-evident wing being detachably connected to the sidewall via a frangible connection, the second closure portion including a polymeric top wall portion and a polymeric annular skirt portion encompassing and extending from the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion, the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion forming at least one recess, the at least one recess being configured to receive the at least one tamper-evident wing therein, the at least one hinge connecting the first closure portion and the second closure portion,wherein during movement of the at least one hinge from the initial closed position to an open position, the frangible connection breaks leaving the at least one tamper-evident wing being securely engaged within the at least one recess of the second closure portion.

13. The package of claim 1, wherein an interior surface of the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion forms a locking projection to assist in preventing or inhibiting removal of the flip-top closure from the container.

14. The package of claim 1, wherein after the frangible connection breaks, the at least one tamper-evident wing drops below an upper surface of the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion.

15. The package of claim 1, wherein the at least one tamper-evident wing is a plurality of tamper-evident wings, wherein the at least one recess is a plurality of recesses, and wherein during movement of the hinge from the initial closed position to an open position, the frangible connection breaks leaving the plurality of tamper-evident wings being securely engaged within a respective one of the plurality of recesses.

16. The package of claim 1, wherein the at least one tamper-evident wing includes an extension on one end thereof that assists in preventing or inhibiting removal of the at least one tamper-evident wing from a remainder of the flip-top closure.

17. The package of claim 1, wherein the at least one recess is formed by an inwardly tapering inner wall, the inwardly tapering inner wall assisting in securely engaging with the at least one tamper-evident wing.

18. The package of claim 1, wherein the at least one recess is formed by an inner wall having an inwardly-extending flange, the inwardly-extending flange assisting in securely engaging with the at least one tamper-evident wing.

19. The package of claim 1, wherein a cross-sectional of the at least one tamper-evident wing is in the general shape of the letter “E”.

20. A tamper-evident, flip-top closure, the closure comprising: a first closure portion including a polymeric top wall portion, a sidewall, and at least one tamper-evident wing, the sidewall encompassing and extending from the polymeric top wall portion of the first closure portion, the at least one tamper-evident wing being detachably connected to the sidewall via a frangible connection, the at least-one tamper-evident wing being outwardly tapered;a second closure portion including a polymeric top wall portion and a polymeric annular skirt portion encompassing and extending from the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion, the polymeric top wall portion of the second closure portion forming at least one recess, the at least one recess being configured to receive the at least one tamper-evident wing therein; andat least one hinge connecting the first closure portion and the second closure portion,wherein during movement of the at least one hinge from the initial closed position to an open position, the frangible connection breaks leaving the at least one tamper-evident wing being securely engaged within the at least one recess of the second closure portion.