PACKAGE AND CLOSURE WITH TAMPER-EVIDENT BAND

Abstract

A closure includes first and second closure portions. The first closure portion includes a top wall portion and annular skirt portion. An interior surface of the skirt portion includes an internal thread formation and further includes recessed portions. The second closure portion includes a tamper-evident band being detachably connected to the annular skirt portion by a frangible connection. The band includes a first portion and a second portion connected via a bending area. The second portion includes a tab section, first extension sections and second extension sections. The recessed portions are sized and shaped to receive a respective one of the first extension sections when the closure is in a closed position.

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 with a tamper-evident band and package using the same.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Polymeric closures have been used in many applications over the years in conjunction with containers. The polymeric closures are adapted to thread on and off of the container. Many polymeric closures also include a tamper-evident feature such as a tamper-evident band. A tamper-evident band, when properly designed and located, indicates to a user that the container has been opened. This indication can be accomplished after opening, for example, by leaving a second portion of the closure around the container while a first portion of the closure is removed from the container. The placement of the polymeric closure onto the container is important for removal of the closure and effectiveness of a tamper-evident band.

One of the problems of placing a polymeric closure onto a container occurs when a portion of the tamper-evident band is not positioned properly with respect to an A-collar or A-diameter of the container during the opening process. If the tamper-evident band is not properly positioned, a user could potentially open the container without the closure separating into two pieces, indicating tamper-evidency. Or, alternatively, the user could have difficulty in breaking the frangible connection when the tamper-evident band rotates inwardly into an exterior wall of the container or unfolds. A further potential problem is the tamper-evident band unfolding prior to being placed onto a container. This can be exacerbated in some cases if the closure is overapplied. Another problem associated with the tamper-evident band is the positioning of the tamper-evident band when a user re-applies the closure onto the container. The tamper-evident band should desirably drop so the user can visually observe that the closure may have been opened.

It would be desirable to provide a closure for a package that addresses and avoids these above-noted situations, while still performing other desirable properties of a closure.

SUMMARY

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a closure comprises a first closure portion and a second closure portion. The first closure portion includes a polymeric top wall portion and a polymeric annular skirt portion depending from the polymeric top wall portion. The polymeric annular skirt portion includes an exterior surface and an interior surface. The interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion includes an internal thread formation for mating engagement with an external thread formation of a container. The interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion further includes a plurality of recessed portions. At least a portion of the plurality of the recessed portions is located further from the polymeric top wall portion than the internal thread formation. The second closure portion includes a polymeric tamper-evident band depending from and being at least partially detachably connected to the polymeric annular skirt portion by a frangible connection. The polymeric tamper-evident band includes a first portion and a second portion connected via a bending area. The second portion extends generally upwardly from the bending area towards the polymeric top wall portion in a folded position and is located inwardly from the first portion of the polymeric tamper-evident band. The second portion of the tamper-evident band includes a tab section, a plurality of first extension sections, and a plurality of second extension sections. The plurality of first extension sections and the plurality of second extension sections are located further from the bending area than the tab section. The plurality of the recessed portions is sized and shaped to receive a respective one of the plurality of first extension sections when the closure is in a closed position.

According to a further configuration of the above implementation, the entire portion of the plurality of the recessed portions is located further from the polymeric top wall portion than the internal thread formation.

In a further aspect of the above implementation, the interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion forms at least one retention collar. The at least one retention collar assists in holding the at least one of the plurality of first extension sections in one of the plurality of recessed portions when the closure is in the folded and closed position. The at least one retention collar may be a plurality of retention collars.

In a further aspect of the above implementation, the plurality of first extension sections is substantially vertical in the folded position.

In yet a further aspect of the above implementation, the plurality of first extension sections is at an angle of from 80 to about 100 degrees. The plurality of second extension sections may be at an angle of from 35 to about 60 degrees in another embodiment.

According to a further configuration of the above implementation, the closure comprises polyolefins.

In a further aspect of the above implementation, the first closure portion further includes a polymeric continuous plug seal depending from the polymeric top wall portion. The continuous plug seal is spaced from the interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion.

According to a configuration of the above implementation, the plurality of first extension sections and the plurality of second extension sections form a generally “y” shape. The plurality of first extension sections and the plurality of second extension sections may form a truncated “y” shape in another embodiment.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a package comprises a container and a closure. The container has a neck portion defining an opening. The container has an external thread formation on the neck portion and an A-collar. The closure is configured for fitment to the neck portion of the container for closing the opening. The closure includes a first closure portion and a second closure portion. The first closure portion includes a polymeric top wall portion and a polymeric annular skirt portion depending from the polymeric top wall portion. The polymeric annular skirt portion includes an exterior surface and an interior surface. The interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion includes an internal thread formation for mating engagement with the external thread formation of the container. The interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion further includes a plurality of recessed portions. At least a portion of the plurality of the recessed portions is located further from the polymeric top wall portion than the internal thread formation. The second closure portion includes a polymeric tamper-evident band depending from and being at least partially detachably connected to the polymeric annular skirt portion by a frangible connection. The polymeric tamper-evident band includes a first portion and a second portion connected via a bending area. The second portion extends generally upwardly from the bending area towards the polymeric top wall portion in a folded position and is located inwardly from the first portion of the polymeric tamper-evident band. The second portion of the tamper-evident band includes a tab section, a plurality of first extension sections, and a plurality of second extension sections. The plurality of first extension sections and the plurality of second extension sections are located further from the bending area than the tab section. The plurality of the recessed portions is sized and shaped to receive a respective one of the plurality of first extension sections when the closure is in a closed position.

According to a further configuration of the above implementation, the diameter of the at least one second extension section of the tamper-evident band is less than the diameter of the A-collar.

In a further aspect of the above implementation, the at least one second extension section of the tamper-evident band abuts an exterior surface of the A-collar.

In a further aspect of the above implementation, the interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion forms at least one retention collar. The at least one retention collar assists in holding the at least one of the plurality of first extension sections in one of the plurality of recessed portions when the closure is in the folded and closed position.

In a further aspect of the above implementation, the plurality of first extension sections is at an angle of from 80 to about 100 degrees. The plurality of second extension sections may be at an angle of from 35 to about 60 degrees.

In a further aspect of the above implementation, the plurality of first extension sections and the plurality of second extension sections form a generally “y” shape. The plurality of first extension sections and the plurality of second extension sections may form a truncated “y” shape.

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 front view of a closure according to one embodiment.

FIG. 1B is a top perspective view of the closure of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view (without the cross-hatching) of the closure in FIG. 1B in an unfolded position according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2B is an enlarged view of a generally circular region 2B in FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view (without the cross-hatching) of the closure of FIG. 1B taken generally along line 2C-2C of FIG. 1B in a closed or folded position.

FIG. 2D is an enlarged view of generally circular region 2D in FIG. 2C.

FIG. 2E is another enlarged view of a cross-section of a tamper-evident band used in the closure of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view (without the cross-hatching) of a closure in an unfolded position according to another embodiment.

FIG. 3B is an enlarged view of a generally circular region 3B in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view (without the cross-hatching) of the closure of FIG. 3A in a closed or folded position.

FIG. 3D is an enlarged view of generally circular region 3D in FIG. 3C.

FIG. 4A is a front view of a container or bottle according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4B is a top perspective view of the container or bottle of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5A is a front view of a package including the container of FIG. 4A and the closure of FIGS. 1A, 1B.

FIG. 5B is a top perspective view of the package of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view (without the cross-hatching) of the package taken generally along the line 6A-6A of FIG. 5B in a closed or folded position.

FIG. 6B is an enlarged view of generally circular region 6B in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view (without the cross-hatching) of the closure of FIG. 6A after the tamper-evident feature has been broken during the process of unthreading the closure with respect to the container.

FIG. 7B is an enlarged view of generally circular region 7B in FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view (without the cross-hatching) of the closure of FIG. 6A during the process of re-threading the closure back onto the container or bottle.

FIG. 8B is an enlarged view of generally circular region 8B in FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8C is an enlarged front cross-sectional view of the closure of FIG. 6A during the process of re-threading the closure back onto the container or bottle.

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, 1B illustrate a polymeric closure 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The closures are configured to be placed on a container or bottle that contain product. The product is typically a liquid product, but also may be a solid product or a combination of a liquid and solid product. The polymeric closure 10 of FIGS. 1A, 1B is generally cylindrically shaped. The polymeric closure 10 of FIGS. 1A, 1B is a one-piece closure assembly. It is contemplated that the closure may be a two-piece closure. It is contemplated that the closure may be of other shapes and dimensions.

Referring to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2C, the polymeric closure 10 includes a first closure portion 12 and a second closure portion 14. The first closure portion 12 includes a polymeric top wall portion 16, a polymeric annular skirt portion 18, and a polymeric continuous plug seal 20 (FIGS. 2A, 2C). The second closure portion 14 includes a polymeric tamper-evident band 30.

As shown in FIGS. 2A, 2C, the polymeric continuous plug seal 20 depends from the polymeric top wall portion 16 and provides a sealing mechanism. The polymeric annular skirt portion 18 depends from the polymeric top wall portion 16. Referring back to FIGS. 1A, 1B, an exterior surface 18b of the polymeric annular skirt portion 18 may also include a plurality of ridges 18c thereon. The plurality of ridges 18c has a contoured shape that assists a user in gripping the polymeric closure 10. The continuous plug seal 20 is spaced from an interior surface 18a of the polymeric annular skirt portion 18 as shown in FIG. 2A.

In another embodiment, the polymeric closure may include other sealing mechanisms. It is contemplated that a closure may include an outer seal and/or a top seal. The outer seal and top seal may depend from the polymeric top wall portion and also provide a scaling mechanism. A top stop may assist in locating the closure with respect to the finish of the container and may also assist in providing some sealing aspects to the closure.

In another example, a closure may include a polymeric lining material that provides a seal to the closure. This would be a two-piece closure. Non-limiting examples of a closure including a polymeric liner and a polymeric disk can be found at U.S. Pat. No. 10,138,037, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. In this embodiment, the closure would be formed from separate components, but would function as the one-piece closure discussed except with a different sealing mechanism. It is contemplated that the polymeric closure may include other sealing mechanisms.

As shown best in FIGS. 2A, 2C, the interior surface 18a of the polymeric annular skirt portion 18 forms a plurality of recessed portions 26. A few of the recessed portions 26 are identified as recessed portions 26a-26c in FIG. 2A. At least a portion of the plurality of the recessed portions 26 is located further from the polymeric top wall portion 16 than the internal thread formation 60. As shown in FIGS. 2A, 2C, the entire portion of the plurality of the recessed portions 26 is located further from the polymeric top wall portion 16 than the internal thread formation 60. It is desirable that the entire portion of the plurality of the recessed portions 26 is located further from the polymeric top wall portion 16 than the internal thread formation 60 so as to not interfere with the threading and unthreading of the internal thread formation 60 of the polymeric closure 10 with an external thread formation of a container.

As will be discussed in further detail below, the plurality of recessed portions 26 is sized and shaped to receive a respective one of the plurality of first extension sections in the closed or folded position. The plurality of recessed portions 26 receives a portion of the tamper-evident band 30 when the polymeric closure 10 is in the closed or folded position. More specifically, each of the plurality of recessed portions 26 in this embodiment receives a corresponding one of the plurality of first extension sections.

In one embodiment, the plurality of recessed portions 26 extends completely around an inner circumference of the polymeric closure 10. In other embodiment, the plurality of recessed portions extends substantially around an inner circumference of the closure. In one embodiment, the plurality of recessed portions extends from about 75% to 100% around the inner circumference of the closure. In another embodiment, the plurality of recessed portions extends from about 80 to 100% around the inner circumference of the closure. In another embodiment, the plurality of recessed portions extends from about 90 to 100% around the inner circumference of the closure. In a further embodiment, the plurality of recessed portions extends from about 95 to 100% around the inner circumference of the closure.

As shown in, for example, FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2A-2D, the polymeric tamper-evident band 30 depends from and is at least partially detachably connected to the polymeric annular skirt portion 18 by a frangible connection 50. Once the polymeric closure 10 moves from an initial closed position (see, e.g., FIG. 2C) to an open position, the polymeric tamper-evident band 30 is desirably fully detached from the polymeric annular skirt portion 18. The tamper-evident band 30 works in conjunction with a container to indicate to a user that the contents of the container may have been accessed. More specifically, the tamper-evident band 30 is designed to at least partially separate from the annular skirt portion 18 if a user opens the package by unthreading and removing the closure to gain access to the container. In one embodiment, the frangible connection 50 may be formed using bridges, scoring or scored lines, notches, leaders, nicks or other lines of weaknesses.

Referring to FIGS. 2B, 2D, the polymeric tamper-evident band 30 includes a first portion 32 and a second portion 34 connected via a bending area 36. The first portion 32, the second portion 34 and the bending area 36 are typically integrally connected. The second portion 34 is folded over inwardly and upwardly (arrow A in FIGS. 2A, 2B) in the direction of the polymeric top wall portion 16 from the position of FIGS. 2A, 2B to the position of FIGS. 2C, 2D. The second portion 34 extends generally upwardly from the bending area 36 in this position and is located inwardly from the first portion 32 of the polymeric tamper-evident band 30.

It is noted that when manufacturing the polymeric closure, the second portion 34 initially extends downwardly (arrow B in FIGS. 2A, 2B) in generally the opposite direction of arrow A. Specifically, the second portion 34 of the tamper-evident band 30 is positioned substantially axially to the first portion 32 as shown best in FIG. 2B before being folded over inwardly and upwardly in the manufacturing process via the bending area 36 into the position shown in FIGS. 2C, 2D.

The second portion 34 of the tamper-evident band 30 includes a tab section 38, a plurality of first extension sections 40, and a plurality of second extension sections 42. The tab section 38 extends inwardly and upwardly from the bending area 36 in the folded position as shown best in FIG. 2D. The tab section 38 extends upwardly towards the polymeric top wall portion 16 in the folded position of FIG. 2D. The tab section 38 has a generally triangular portion 38a and assists in in positioning the polymeric closure 10 with respect to an A-collar of the container.

The plurality of first extension sections 40 extends generally vertical from the tab section 38 in the folded position of FIGS. 2D, 2E. Each of the plurality of second extension sections 42 extends inwardly and upwardly from a respective portion of the plurality of first extension sections 40 in the folded position of FIG. 2D.

As will be discussed in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 8A-8C, the plurality of first extension sections 40 assists in dropping the tamper-evident band 30 after the polymeric closure 10 is rethreaded onto the container by a user. The dropping of the tamper-evident band 30 provides visual evidence to a user that the polymeric closure 10 may have been opened previously. The dropping of the tamper-evident band 30 occurs after a user rethreads the closure onto the container.

The plurality of first extension sections 40 is located further from the bending area 36 than the tab section 38 in the folded position as shown in FIGS. 2C-2E. Each of the plurality of first extension sections 40 extends from the tab section 38 and is generally vertical in the folded position of FIGS. 2C-2E. This is shown by the direction of the arrow C in, for example, the folded position of FIGS. 2C-2E.

The plurality of second extension sections 42 assists in initially locating and maintaining the position of the tab section 38 during the opening process. The plurality of second extension sections 42 is located further from the bending area 36 than the tab section 38 in the folded position as shown in FIGS. 2C-2E. Each of the plurality of second extension sections 42 extends inwardly and upwardly from a respective one of the plurality of first extension sections 40 in the folded position of FIGS. 2C-2E.

The combination of one of the plurality of first extension sections 40 and the plurality of second extension sections 42 is in the shape of a general “Y”. For example, one of the plurality of first extension sections 40 and the plurality of second extension sections 42 is in the shape of a truncated “Y”.

It is desirable for the tab section 38 and the plurality of first extension sections 40 to be vertical or substantially vertical so as to prevent or inhibit the tab section 38 from rotating inwardly towards an exterior wall of a container or bottle finish, or by unfolding. It is desirable for the tab section 38 and the plurality of first extension sections 40 to be substantially vertical to prevent or inhibit from being located too sharply against the interior surface 18a of the polymeric annular skirt portion 18.

By keeping the tab section 38 from rotating inwardly or unfolding assists in avoiding or inhibiting problems in the opening process by a user. Specifically, when a user applies vertical and axial forces in opening the polymeric closure 10, it is desirable for these forces to be substantially applied to breaking the frangible connection 50 instead of transmitting the energy into moving (i.e., rotating or unfolding) the tab section 38. When the tab section 38 remains generally in place, the vertical and axial forces from the user transmits only to or substantially to the opening of the frangible connection 50 (e.g., breaking the bridges).

It is contemplated that an inwardly-extending bead be used in this embodiment. In one embodiment, the location of inwardly-extending bead would extend from the first portion 32 and be located between the first and second portions 32, 34 and above the bending area 36. In one embodiment, the inwardly-extending bead would be slightly above the bending area. The inwardly-extending bead assists in positioning the tab section 38 and the plurality of first extension sections 40. The inwardly extending bead prevents or inhibits the tab section 38 and the plurality of first extension sections 40 from folding too sharply against the interior surface 14a of the polymeric annular skirt portion 14.

If the tab section moves inwardly towards an exterior wall of the bottle finish or the tab section unfolds, this can lead to undesirable results. For example, if a certain percentage of the bridges in the frangible connection are not broken (typically on one side) because energy is transmitted into moving the tab section, a user may have difficulty in opening and accessing the contents of the container. Specifically, when some of the bridges remain unbroken, this can lead to a tether-like or hinged-band scenario. This can lead to a closure being in a hanging or stuck position. When bridges remain unbroken, the closure becomes looser with more ability or freedom to move around, resulting in potential undesirable movement. For example, a side-to-side movement of the closure can result in a user inadvertently pulling the closure to one side that makes the closure off centered.

When all of the bridges are not broken, several scenarios can occur. In one scenario, the entire tamper-evident band may go underneath the A-collar or A-diameter of the finish, which may make the closure difficult to open. In another scenario, some section of the tamper-evident band may lift over and partly above the A-collar of the finish, which leads to a hiked band that makes the closure difficult to open. In a further scenario, the positioning of the tab section could lead to the tamper-evident band riding entirely over an A-collar of the finish and coming off with the remainder of the closure when the container is being opened. This is undesirable for several reasons including making the opening of the container more difficult and defeating the tamper-evident aspects of the package because the tamper-evident band should remain with the container after the closure is unthreaded.

The tab section 38 is desirably positioned to remain below and adjacent to a bottom surface of an A-collar of the finish of the container. The tab section 38 as discussed above is desirably spaced from an exterior wall of the container finish. A top surface of the tab section 38 forms a ledge 38b on which the plurality of first extension sections 40 and the plurality of second extension sections 42 extend therefrom. The ledge 38b desirably seals under the A-collar of the finish of the container.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the plurality of second extension sections 42 extends continuously around the entire inner circumference in one embodiment. The plurality of second extension sections 42 assists in placing and positioning the tamper-evident band 30 adjacent to and desirably abutting an exterior surface of the A-collar. In one embodiment, the plurality of second extension sections extends from about 75% to 100% around the inner circumference of the closure. In another embodiment, the plurality of second extension sections extends from about 80 to 100% around the inner circumference of the closure. In another embodiment, the plurality of second extension sections extends from about 90 to 100% around the inner circumference of the closure. In a further embodiment, the plurality of second extension sections extends from about 95 to 100% around the inner circumference of the closure. If the plurality of second extension sections does not extend around the entire inner circumference of the closure in at least a substantially continuous manner, it may not desirably and consistently assist in preventing or inhibiting the extension portion from moving underneath the A-collar of the finish during the opening process.

The plurality of second extension sections in a more desirable embodiment extends around the entire inner circumference of the closure and maintains a position adjacent to and abutting an exterior surface of the A-collar without the extension portion moving underneath the A-collar. By having the plurality of second extension sections abutting an exterior surface of the A-collar and not being underneath the A-collar, potential problems discussed above such as having difficulty in opening the container or having the tamper-evident aspects defeated are substantially or entirely avoided.

As shown best in FIG. 6A, 6B, the plurality of second extension sections 42 is positioned between an interior surface 18a of the polymeric annular skirt portion 18 and an A-collar or A-diameter 106. It is desirable for the plurality of second extension sections 42 to conform or slightly confirm with the A-collar 106 of a container continuously around the entire inner circumference of the closure. When the A-collar 106 of a container contacts the plurality of second extension sections 42, this forces the plurality of first extension sections into a respective one of the recessed sections 26. By not having a gap or much of a gap therebetween, the tab section 38 is prevented or inhibited from rotating inwardly towards an exterior wall of the container finish or unfolding further away from the A-collar 106.

The plurality of second extension sections 42 of the tamper-evident band 30 conforms with and abuts an exterior surface 106a of the A-collar 106 in one embodiment. The plurality of second extension sections 42 desirably forms a seal with the exterior surface 106a of the A-collar 106. The ledge 38b desirably is located underneath the A-collar 106 and away from the sidewall of the finish. As shown in FIG. 6B, the plurality of second extension sections 42 prevents or inhibits vertical (arrows B and C) or horizontal (arrows D and E) movement of the tab section 38.

It is desirable to have the plurality of second extension sections 42 initially angled at angle A (FIG. 2E) such that the A-collar 106 abuts and moves the plurality of second extension sections 42. It is desirable to have a more reduced angle on the same to assist in the manufacturing process of removing the closure from the associated tooling. Referring still to FIG. 2E, the plurality of second extension sections 42 is generally at the angle A of from about 25 to about 70 degrees. More specifically, the plurality of second extension sections 42 is generally at the angle A of from about 30 to about 60 degrees. The plurality of second extension sections 42 is at the angle A is typically from about 35 to about 60 degrees, or at the angle A of from about 40 to about 50 degrees.

The diameter of the plurality of second extension sections 42 is desirably smaller than the diameter of the A-collar 106. When the diameter of the plurality of second extension sections 42 is smaller than diameter of the A-collar 106, the plurality of second extension sections 42 is moved outwardly (in the direction of arrow E in FIG. 6B) towards the polymeric annular skirt portion 18. The relative diameters of the plurality of second extension sections 42 and the A-collar 106 also assist in positioning the second portion 34 of the tamper-evident band 30. The thickness and the materials used to form the plurality of second extension sections 42 allow it to be moved from the position in FIGS. 2D, 2E to the position of FIGS. 6A, 6B during the placement of the polymeric closure 10 onto the finish of the container. Referring to FIG. 2E, the angle B of the at least one first extension section 40 in FIG. 2E is generally from about 75 to about 110 degrees. The angle B of the at least one first extension section 40 is typically from about 80 to about 100 degrees, and more specifically from about 85 to about 95 degrees.

As shown in FIG. 2E, angle B is greater than angle A. Generally, angle B is from about 20 to about 60 degrees greater than angle A. Typically, angle B is from about 35 to about 55 degrees greater than angle A.

A thickness T1 of the tab section 38 of the tamper-evident band 30 at is thickest point in FIG. 2E is generally from about 0.10 to about 0.40 inches. More specifically, the greatest thickness T1 of the tab section 38 is from about 0.20 to about 0.30 inches.

A length L1 of the tab section 38 of the tamper-evident band 30 in FIG. 2E is generally from about 0.05 to about 0.3 inches. More specifically, the length L1 of the tab section 38 is from about 0.1 to about 0.15 inches.

An average thickness T2 of the plurality of first extension sections 40 of the tamper-evident band 30 in FIG. 2E is generally from about 0.05 to about 0.3 inches. More specifically, the average thickness T2 of the plurality of first extension sections 40 is from about 0.10 to about 0.20 inches.

An average thickness T3 of the plurality of second extension sections 42 of the tamper-evident band 30 in FIG. 2E is generally from about 0.005 to about 0.02 inches. More specifically, the average thickness T3 of the at least one second extension section 42 is from about 0.005 to about 0.01 inches.

A length L2 of the plurality of first extension sections 40 of the tamper-evident band 30 in FIG. 2E is generally from about 0.05 to about 0.2 inches. More specifically, the length L2 of the plurality of first extension sections 40 is from about 0.05 to about 0.15 inches.

The length L3 of the plurality of second extension sections 42 of the tamper-evident band 30 in FIG. 2E is generally from about 0.01 to about 0.1 inches. More specifically, the length L3 of the plurality of second extension sections 42 is from about 0.02 to about 0.05 inches.

Referring still to FIG. 2E, a length of the tab section 38 is typically greater than both the plurality of first extension sections 40 or the plurality of second extension sections 42. The length L1 of the tab section 38 is generally from about 1 to about 3 times greater than the length L2 of the plurality of first extension sections 40. More specifically, the length L1 of the tab section 38 is generally from about 1 to about 2 times greater than the length L2 of the plurality of first extension sections 40, or from about 1.25 to about 1.75 times greater than the length L2 of the plurality of first extension sections 40.

The length L1 of the tab section 38 is generally from about 2 to about 6 times greater than the length L3 of the plurality of second extension sections 42. More specifically, the length L1 of the tab section 38 is generally from about 3 to about 6 times greater than the length L3 of the plurality of second extension sections 42, or from about 3 to about 5 times greater than the length L3 of the plurality of second extension sections 42.

The polymeric annular skirt portion includes an internal thread formation for mating engagement with an external thread formation of a container. Specifically, the polymeric annular skirt portion 18 of FIGS. 2A-2D includes the internal thread formation 60 for mating engagement with an external thread formation of a container. The internal thread formation 60 in this embodiment is a continuous thread formation. The internal thread formation 60 is also in a helical formation.

It is contemplated that the internal thread formation of the closure may have discontinuous leads or other external thread formations. For example, an internal thread formation may be used including having first and second finish leads. It is also contemplated that the internal thread formation of the closure may differ from a helical thread formation. It is also contemplated that other internal thread formations may be used in the closure.

The frangible connection 50 may be formed by molded-in-bridges in one embodiment. The molded-in-bridges are typically formed using a feature in the mold. In another embodiment, the frangible connection may be formed using scoring or scored lines, notches, leaders, nicks or other lines of weaknesses.

It is contemplated that other features may be including in a polymeric closure. For example, referring to FIGS. 3A-3D, a polymeric closure 10′ is shown. FIGS. 3A, 3B show the polymeric closure 10′ in an open or unfolded position, while FIGS. 3C, 3D show the polymeric closure 10′ in a closed or folded position. The polymeric closure 10′ includes the same features as the polymeric closure 10. More specifically, the polymeric closure 10′ includes a first closure portion 12′ and the second closure portion 14. The first closure portion 12′ includes the polymeric top wall portion 16, a polymeric annular skirt portion 18′, and the polymeric continuous plug seal 20. An interior surface 18a′ of the polymeric annular skirt portion 18′ forms a plurality of recessed portions 26′. The second closure portion 14 includes the polymeric tamper-evident band 30. The polymeric tamper-evident band 30 includes the tab section 38, the plurality of first extension sections 40, and the plurality of second extension sections 42.

The polymeric closure 10′ differs from the polymeric closure 10 in that the interior surface 18a′ forms a retention collar 28. The retention collar 28 extends in a downwardly direction (in the direction or arrow B in FIG. 3B) into a space or pocket formed by plurality of recessed portions 26′. This reduces the initial opening size as shown best in FIGS. 3B, 3D with retention collars 28a, 28b, 28c. The retention collars 28 assist in holding and securing the plurality of first extension sections 40 that extends into the recessed portions 26′. This assists in preventing or inhibiting the tamper-evident band 30 from unfolding because of the geometry. When the tamper-evident band 30 is moved to the folded position in this embodiment, the plurality of first extension sections 40 snaps in a pocket formed by retention collar 28 and the recessed portion 26′.

The amount of extension of the retention collar 28 is balanced between holding/securing ability and the ability for the plurality of first extension sections 40 to be received into the recessed portions 26. In one embodiment, the retention collar 28 extends from about 3 to about 30 percent into each of the plurality of recessed portions 26′ and, more specifically, or from about 5 to about 20 percent into each of the plurality of recessed portions 26′.

Referring to FIGS. 4A, 4B, a container 108 is shown in a front view and a top perspective view, respectively. The container 108 includes a neck or finish portion 102 opposite of a bottom 103. The neck portion 102 defines an opening 114 of the container 108. The neck portion 102 of the container 108 includes an external thread formation 104 and an A-collar 106. The A-collar 106 is located closer to the bottom 103 than the external thread formation 104. The external thread formation 104 includes a continuous, helical thread formation. The external thread formation 104 engages with a corresponding internal thread formation of the polymeric closure.

It is contemplated that the external thread formation of the container may have discontinuous leads or other external thread formations. For example, an external thread formation may be used including having first and second finish leads.

The polymeric closures 10 of the present invention may be used with the container 108 used to form a package 100 of FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B. It is contemplated that the polymeric closure 10′ may be used with the container 108 to form a package in another embodiment. FIGS. 5A, 5B are front and top perspective views, respectively, of the package 100. FIGS. 6A, 6B are general cross-sectional views of the package 100 in a closed position.

Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, the external thread formation 104 of the container 108 engages with the corresponding internal thread formation 60 of the polymeric closure 10 in FIGS. 6A, 6B. The second portion 34 of the polymeric closure 10 is shown as engaging the A-collar 106 of the container 108. Specifically, an exterior surface 42a of one of the plurality of second extension sections 42 is shown as abutting against the exterior surface 106a of the A-collar 106. A few of the plurality of first extension sections 40 are shown located in a respective one of the recessed portions 26 of the polymeric closure 10. The polymeric continuous plug seal 20 is shown as engaging an interior surface of the neck portion 102 in FIG. 6A.

The 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 closures may include an oxygen-barrier material. The oxygen-barrier material may be added as a separate layer or may be integrated within the closure itself. The oxygen-barrier materials assist in preventing or inhibiting oxygen from entering the container through the 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 closure.

Additionally, it is contemplated that features other than the tamper-evident band and the recessed portions may be included in the closure described above. For example, U.S. Publication No. 2018/009979, U.S. Publication No. 2017/0349336, U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,126,726, 9,085,385, 8,763,830, 8,485,374, U.S. Publication No. 2009/0045158 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,123,212 all include such features that may be incorporated in the closures of the present invention. All of these references are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

The top wall portion 16, the annular skirt portion 18, and the tamper-evident band 30 are made of polymeric material. The top wall portion 16, the annular skirt portion 18, and the tamper-evident band 30 are typically made of an olefin (e.g., polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP)), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or blends thereof. One example of a polyethylene that may be used in high density polyethylene (HDPE). It is contemplated that the top wall portion, the annular skirt portion, the tamper-evident band may be made of other polymeric materials. The tamper-evident band 30 is typically made of the same materials as the top wall portion 16 and the annular skirt portion 18.

The closures are typically formed by processes such as injection or compression molding, extrusion or the combination thereof.

The container 108 is typically made of polymeric material. One non-limiting example of a material to be used in forming a polymeric container is polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP) or blends using the same. It is contemplated that the container may be formed of other polymeric or copolymer materials. It is also contemplated that the container may be formed of glass. The container 108 typically has an encapsulated oxygen-barrier layer or oxygen barrier material incorporated therein.

To open the container 108 and gain access to the product therein, the polymeric closure 10 is unthreaded by turning the polymeric closure 10 with respect to the container 108. After the closure has been unthreaded, the polymeric closure 10 can be removed from the container 108. When using this method, the tamper-evident band 30 is desirably fully separated from the reminder of the polymeric closure 10 via the frangible connection 50, which indicates that the polymeric closure 10 has been unthreaded with respect to the container 108.

The process of removing the first closure portion 12 of the polymeric closure 10 from the second closure portion 14 of the polymeric closure 10 is shown in FIGS. 6A-8C. FIGS. 6A, 6B show the package 100 in a closed position before unthreading has started.

Turning to FIGS. 7A, 7B, after a user initially unthreads the polymeric closure 10, the second closure portion 14 including the tamper-evident band 30 breaks from the remainder of the polymeric closure 10. FIGS. 7A, 7B show the first and second closure portions 12, 14 being totally separated from each other. A user than continues to unthread resulting into the first closure portion 12 being removed from the container 108. A user can access to the contents of the container 108 at this point in time.

Referring to FIGS. 8A-8C, after a user begins to re-thread the polymeric closure 10 onto the container 108. When the first closure portion 12 of the polymeric closure 10 is being threaded in a downwardly direction (in the direction of arrow B in FIG. 8B, 8C), the plurality of bridges 44a-e contact and push the plurality of first extension sections 40 (along with the remainder of the tamper-evident band 30) in the downwardly direction. This results in the tamper-evident band 30 being dropped, which assists a user in knowing that the polymeric closure 10 has been opened (i.e., increasing the visibility of the tamper-evident feature 30). The closure 10′, which includes the retention collar 28, would function in the same or similar manner as the polymeric closure 10.

The polymeric closures 10, 10′ are shown as being generally symmetrically in nature. It is contemplated that the polymeric closures may be asymmetrical. The asymmetrical nature of the polymeric closure may be, for example, a non-circular pattern that would take away from the axial symmetry. By being asymmetrical, it makes it more difficult for the plurality of first extension sections of the tamper-evident band to avoid contact with the bridges, which makes it more unlikely that the tamper-evident band will not be pushed downwardly.

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

The polymeric 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 closures of the present invention can be used in other high-temperature applications.

Claims

1. A closure comprising: a first closure portion including: a polymeric top wall portion;a polymeric annular skirt portion depending from the polymeric top wall portion, the polymeric annular skirt portion including an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion including an internal thread formation for mating engagement with an external thread formation of a container, the interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion further including a plurality of recessed portions, at least a portion of the plurality of the recessed portions being located further from the polymeric top wall portion than the internal thread formation; anda second closure portion including: a polymeric tamper-evident band depending from and being at least partially detachably connected to the polymeric annular skirt portion by a frangible connection, the polymeric tamper-evident band including a first portion and a second portion connected via a bending area, the second portion extending generally upwardly from the bending area towards the polymeric top wall portion in a folded position and being located inwardly from the first portion of the polymeric tamper-evident band, the second portion of the tamper-evident band including a tab section, a plurality of first extension sections and a plurality of second extension sections, the plurality of first extension sections and the plurality of second extension sections being located further from the bending area than the tab section,wherein the plurality of the recessed portions is sized and shaped to receive a respective one of the plurality of first extension sections when the closure is in a closed position.

2. The closure of claim 1, wherein the entire portion of the plurality of the recessed portions is located further from the polymeric top wall portion than the internal thread formation.

3. The closure of claim 1, wherein the interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion forms at least one retention collar, the at least one retention collar assists in holding the at least one of the plurality of first extension sections in one of the plurality of recessed portions when the closure is in the folded and closed position.

4. The closure of claim 3, wherein the at least one retention collar is a plurality of retention collars.

5. The closure of claim 1, wherein the plurality of first extension sections is substantially vertical in the folded position.

6. The closure of claim 1, wherein the plurality of first extension sections is at an angle of from 80 to about 100 degrees.

7. The closure of claim 1, wherein the plurality of second extension sections is at an angle of from 35 to about 60 degrees.

8. The closure of claim 1, wherein the closure comprises polyolefins.

9. The closure of claim 1, wherein the first closure portion further includes a polymeric continuous plug seal depending from the polymeric top wall portion, the continuous plug seal being spaced from the interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion.

10. The closure of claim 1, wherein the plurality of first extension sections and the plurality of second extension sections form a generally “y” shape.

11. The closure of claim 10, wherein the plurality of first extension sections and the plurality of second extension sections form a truncated “y” shape.

12. A package comprising: a container having a neck portion defining an opening, the container having an external thread formation on the neck portion and an A-collar; anda closure being configured for fitment to the neck portion of the container for closing the opening, the closure including a first closure portion and a second closure portion, the first closure portion including a polymeric top wall portion and a polymeric annular skirt portion depending from the polymeric top wall portion, the polymeric annular skirt portion including an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion including an internal thread formation for mating engagement with the external thread formation of the container, the interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion further including a plurality of recessed portions, at least a portion of the plurality of the recessed portions being located further from the polymeric top wall portion than the internal thread formation, the second closure portion includes a polymeric tamper-evident band depending from and being at least partially detachably connected to the polymeric annular skirt portion by a frangible connection, the polymeric tamper-evident band including a first portion and a second portion connected via a bending area, the second portion extending generally upwardly from the bending area towards the polymeric top wall portion in a folded position and being located inwardly from the first portion of the polymeric tamper-evident band, the second portion of the tamper-evident band including a tab section, a plurality of first extension sections and a plurality of second extension sections, the plurality of first extension sections and the plurality of second extension sections being located further from the bending area than the tab section, the plurality of the recessed portions being sized and shaped to receive a respective one of the plurality of first extension sections when the closure is in a closed position.

13. The package of claim 12, wherein the diameter of the at least one second extension section of the tamper-evident band is less than the diameter of the A-collar.

14. The package of claim 12, wherein the at least one second extension section of the tamper-evident band abuts an exterior surface of the A-collar.

15. The package of claim 12, wherein the interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion forms at least one retention collar, the at least one retention collar assists in holding the at least one of the plurality of first extension sections in one of the plurality of recessed portions when the closure is in the folded and closed position.

16. The package of claim 12, wherein the at least one retention collar is a plurality of retention collars.

17. The package of claim 12, wherein the plurality of first extension sections is at an angle of from 80 to about 100 degrees.

18. The package of claim 12, wherein the plurality of second extension sections is at an angle of from 35 to about 60 degrees.

19. The package of claim 12, wherein the plurality of first extension sections and the plurality of second extension sections form a generally “y” shape.

20. The package of claim 19, wherein the plurality of first extension sections and the plurality of second extension sections form a truncated “y” shape.