Title:
Tilt/lift safety closure
United States Patent 3927805
Abstract:
A safety cap construction for hand-held dispensers comprising a tubular cap body having a top discharge opening and a closure cap held captive thereon by a hinge-like web structure which enables the cap to be swung from a closed, sealing position to an open, discharging position. Cooperable sealing beads are provided on the cap and on an upstanding spout disposed in the upper surface of the cap body. The sealing beads constitute a yieldable detent to maintain the cap in the closed, sealing position. An upstanding flange on the cap body extends at least partially around the cap and covers the juncture of the latter and the cap body, thus normally barring access to the crack or joint therebetween and preventing the cap from being directly pryed off by unauthorized personnel. The cap has a lifting edge which, in the closed position, is hidden by the upstanding flange. A rib on the cap underside engages the spout and enables limited rocking movement of the cap with respect to the body. The arrangement is such that the user merely applies a depressing force to a designated area of the cap, causing it to pivot or rock on its rib. In turn, the detent or sealing beads yield at one location, and the lifting edge of the cap is raised above the upstanding flange on the cap body, providing a widened crack which enables the user to now easily engage the edge with his finger and thus pry off the cap.
US Patent References:
Self clutching captive closure cap unit
Jovanovich - August 1965 - 3199751
COVER FOR DECANTER OR LIKE LIQUID DISPENSING CONTAINER
Alpern - June 1973 - 3739957
SAFETY CLOSURE FOR CONTAINERS
Mack - September 1973 - 3758000
SAFETY CAP
Stull - July 1974 - 3826394
CONTAINERS AND SAFETY CLOSURE THEREFOR
Towns - November 1974 - 3845872
Self clutching captive closure cap unit
Jovanovich - August 1965 - 3199751
COVER FOR DECANTER OR LIKE LIQUID DISPENSING CONTAINER
Alpern - June 1973 - 3739957
SAFETY CLOSURE FOR CONTAINERS
Mack - September 1973 - 3758000
SAFETY CAP
Stull - July 1974 - 3826394
CONTAINERS AND SAFETY CLOSURE THEREFOR
Towns - November 1974 - 3845872
Application Number:
05/406671
Publication Date:
12/23/1975
Filing Date:
10/15/1973
View Patent Images:
Export Citation:
Primary Class:
Other Classes:
215/211, 215/305, 222/556, 215/238
International Classes:
B65D47/14; B65D47/12; B67D5/32
Field of Search:
215/9,211,216,224,235,236,237,238,244,245,301,305,317,320,321 222/153,498,517,528,530,543,546,556,557,558
Primary Examiner:
Reeves, Robert B.
Assistant Examiner:
Martin, Larry H.
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
Lehmann, Gibner Lehmann Gibner H. K.
Claims:
I claim
1. A safety cap construction for hand-held dispensers, comprising in combination:
2. The invention as defined in claim 1, wherein:
3. The invention as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
4. The invention as defined in claim 3, wherein:
5. The invention as defined in claim 4, and further including:
6. The invention as defined in claim 2, wherein:
7. The invention as defined in claim 1, and further including:
8. The invention as defined in claim 7, wherein:
9. The invention as set forth in claim 7, wherein:
10. The invention as set forth in claim 9, wherein:
11. The invention as set forth in claim 7, wherein:
12. The invention as set forth in claim 1, and further including:
13. The invention as set forth in claim 1, and further including:
14. The invention as set forth in claim 1, and further including:
15. The invention as set forth in claim 2, wherein:
16. The invention as set forth in claim 3, wherein:
17. The invention as set forth in claim 3, wherein:
18. The invention as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
19. The invention as set forth in claim 18, wherein:
20. The invention as set forth in claim 1, and further including:
21. The invention as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
22. The invention as set forth in claim 21, wherein:
23. The invention as set forth in claim 21, wherein:
1. A safety cap construction for hand-held dispensers, comprising in combination:
2. The invention as defined in claim 1, wherein:
3. The invention as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
4. The invention as defined in claim 3, wherein:
5. The invention as defined in claim 4, and further including:
6. The invention as defined in claim 2, wherein:
7. The invention as defined in claim 1, and further including:
8. The invention as defined in claim 7, wherein:
9. The invention as set forth in claim 7, wherein:
10. The invention as set forth in claim 9, wherein:
11. The invention as set forth in claim 7, wherein:
12. The invention as set forth in claim 1, and further including:
13. The invention as set forth in claim 1, and further including:
14. The invention as set forth in claim 1, and further including:
15. The invention as set forth in claim 2, wherein:
16. The invention as set forth in claim 3, wherein:
17. The invention as set forth in claim 3, wherein:
18. The invention as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
19. The invention as set forth in claim 18, wherein:
20. The invention as set forth in claim 1, and further including:
21. The invention as set forth in claim 1, wherein:
22. The invention as set forth in claim 21, wherein:
23. The invention as set forth in claim 21, wherein:
Description:
BACKGROUND
This invention relates generally to safety closures, and more particularly to closures of the type which are maintained in a locked position and require the performance of a certain simple operation by a knowledgeable or authorized person in order to effect the unlocking.
In the past, a number of safety cap constructions have been proposed. Some employed merely a tight-fitting cap having a small finger-engageable tab for enabling application of a reasonable prying force by the user. Others incorporated caps which were keyed to the container neck, wherein rotation of the cap was required to bring into registration one or more marker arrows prior to opening. Still others employed a cap having a smooth exterior surface which closely abutted an adjoining surface on the cap body or container neck, thus presenting only a very small crack at the juncture thereof; this hindered direct removal of the cap by a small child or unauthorized person. The above safety closures had a number of disadvantages. Many were unsatisfactory in that for the average consumer, they presented too great a difficulty in opening the container. Others were too easily opened, with the result that the caps did not prevent access by unauthorized personnel, and thus did not function as true safety closures. In certain cases as where the cap was not held captive, it would frequently become lost or misplaced during use of the container, in which case the safety function of the cap was completely defeated.
SUMMARY
The above drawbacks and disadvantages of prior safety closures are obviated by the present invention which has for an object the provision of a novel and improved safety cap its structure which is simple in construction, reliable in operation and which at the same time represents a practical solution to the problem of providing a closure which can be easily opened by the average consumer while nevertheless presenting great difficulty to unauthorized persons such as small children. Another object is the provision of a safety closure which can be readily molded as a single piece in simple mold cavities.
These objects are accomplished by the provision of a safety cap construction comprising a tubular cap body having a top discharge opening, and closure cap held captive thereon by a flexible hinge web structure. The cap body has an upstanding spout with an external detent and sealing bead which is engageable with a corresponding bead on the underside of the cap, the beads tending to hold the cap in a closed, sealing position on the cap body. The closure cap has a lifting edge on its underside, which is hidden by an upstanding flange on the cap body. A pivot rib on the underside of the cap is engageable with a bearing surface on the spout, and limited pivotal or rocking movement of the cap in its sealing, closed position can be effected by depressing a designated point thereon. The arrangement is such that upon the application of such a depressing force, the cap tilts slightly, exposing the lifting edge thereof above the upstanding flange. This enables engagement of the edge by the finger of the user and permits the removal of the cap.
Other features and advantages will hereinafter appear.
In the drawings, illustrating several embodiments of the invention:
FIG. 1 is a vertical view of a container employing the safety cap construction of the present invention, shown in the open or product-discharging position.
FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the safety cap construction of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 is a bottom plan view of the safety cap construction of FIGS. 1 and 2.
FIG. 4 is a vertical section of the safety cap construction of FIGS. 1-3, shown in the closed, sealing position.
FIG. 5 is a vertical section like that of FIG. 4, except showing the closure cap being depressed adjacent the location of the hinge web structure and thereafter being lifted at its opposite edge by the fingers of the user.
FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a modified safety cap construction, showing an off-center pivot rib on the underside of the closure cap, this construction constituting another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of the cap construction of FIG. 6, showing the closure cap being depressed adjacent the hinge web structure.
FIG. 8 is a top plan view of a further modified safety cap construction, incorporating reinforcing lands on the upstanding spout portion of the cap body, this construction constituting yet another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 9 is a front elevational view of a still further modified safety cap construction, showing that part of the upstanding flange disposed between the posts being disconnected therefrom, and being capable of undergoing limited inward flexing movement, this construction constituting yet another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 10 is a vertical sectional view of the safety cap construction of FIG. 9, showing the cap being depressed adjacent the location of the hinge web structure and thereafter lifted at its opposite edge by the fingers of the user.
FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the safety cap construction of FIGS. 9 and 10.
FIG. 12 is a top plan view of a further modified safety cap construction, showing part of the upstanding flange between the posts on the cap body disposed inwardly of other flange portions, this construction constituting still another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 13 is a front elevational view of the safety cap construction of FIG. 12.
FIG. 14 is a top plan view of a further modified safety cap construction, showing a detent bead on the underside of the cap, the bead having a portion of a reduced cross-sectional area, this construction constituting still another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 15 is a section taken on line 15--15 of FIG. 14.
FIG. 16 is a section taken on line 16--16 of FIG. 14.
FIG. 17 is a top plan view of a still further modified safety cap construction, showing a guide bead on the closure cap for facilitating replacement thereof on the cap body, this construction constituting yet another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 18 is a section taken on line 18--18 of FIG. 17.
FIG. 19 is a section taken on line 19--19 of FIG. 17.
FIG. 20 is a side elevational view of a further modified cap construction incorporating two upstanding posts on the cap body disposed on opposite sides of the hinge web structure, the posts preventing engagement of the hinge web by the teeth of a small child, this construction constituting yet another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 21 is a top plan view of the closure cap construction of FIG. 20.
FIG. 22 is a bottom plan view of the closure cap construction of FIG. 20.
FIG. 23 is a top plan view of a cap construction having its stopper in the open position, illustrating still another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 24 is a top plan view of the cap construction of FIG. 23, with the stopper in the closed or sealing position.
FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of the cap construction of FIGS. 23 and 24, with the stopper in the closed position.
FIG. 26 is a fragmentary section taken on line 26--26 of FIG. 23.
FIG. 27 is a section similar to FIG. 26, except showing the cap disposed in a tilted position.
Referring first to FIGS. 1-5 there is illustrated a safety cap construction generally designated by the numeral 10, for use with a container 12 of the hand-held type adapted to dispense a liquid product. The cap construction comprises a tubular cap body 14 having an external annular groove 16 by which the body can be snapped into and permanently held on the container as illustrated in FIG. 1, and a closure cap 18 held captive on the cap body by means of a flexible hinge web structure 20. The cap 18 can be swung to a sealing, closed position illustrated in FIG. 4 from an open, or product-discharging position illustrated in FIG. 1. Disposed on the cap body 14 is an upstanding dispensing spout 22 having a central discharge aperture 24 which may be either a single opening or multiple openings, and may have varied characteristics depending upon the nature of the product being dispensed and upon the direction of discharge desired. For example, with the particular configuration shown in FIGS. 1-5, the product is dispensed in a stream at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the cap and container.
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a novel safety cap construction comprising the combination of an upstanding flange 26 carried on the cap body 18 and extending at least partially around the juncture formed by the annular surfaces 28 and 30 of the closure cap 18 and cap body 14, respectively yieldable detent means on the cap body and cap for maintaining the latter in a closed, sealing position, and pivot bearing means on the cap body and cap enabling limited tilting or rocking movement of the latter in response to application of a depressing force applied to one side of the cap, as will be explained below. The upstanding spout 22 is generally rigid and has at its uppermost part a yieldable, external annular sealing bead 32 which is adapted to cooperate with a corresponding internal annular sealing bead 34 carried on a skirt 36 depending from the underside of the closure cap 18, the two beads sealingly engaging one another when the closure cap is in the closed position of FIG. 4 and thus constituting the yieldable detent means holding the closure cap firmly on the body. It will be readily understood that the domed surface 38 of the closure cap is smooth and devoid of any gripping protrusions and, when the cap is in the sealing position, there exists no point of access to the cap for directly prying off the same, due to the flange 26 which extends roughly up to the periphery of the domed surface 38.
Referring particularly to FIG. 2, in accordance with the present invention, the upstanding spout has a raised upper bearing surface comprising oppositely disposed areas 39, 40 of the spout adjacent the location of the sealing bead 32. The closure cap 18 has a bearing rib 42 disposed on its underside, the rib being of such dimensions as to engage the areas 39, 40 when the cap is in the closed, sealing position of FIG. 4. As also illustrated in FIG. 1, there is a recess 44 on the cap body 14 between the spout 22 and the upstanding flange 26, the purpose of which is to provide a clearance space for the depending skirt 36 of the cap when the latter is tilted to the position of FIG. 5 during the opening procedure as will be explained below. Additional ribs 46 and 48 (FIG. 2) in the closure cap 18 provide stiffening therefor. Rib 46 also engages the upper bearing surface of the spout 22, to provide a seat for the cap in the closed position. It can be seen that the rib 48 is shorter than the others, and a space 50 exists in order to provide clearance for the portion 52 of the spout when the cap is tilted to the position of FIG. 5. A depending sealer plug 54 is received in the spout opening 24 when the cap is in the closed position to provide a secondary seal of the closure.
In accordance with the present invention, there is further provided on the underside of the closure cap 18 a normally inaccessible lifting edge 56 at a point substantially opposite the location of the hinge web structure 20. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, it can be seen that for the closed condition of the cap, this edge is located below the top edge of the upstanding flange 26 on the cap body and is not exposed, thus preventing direct engagement thereof by the fingers and unauthorized direct removal of the cap.
The operation of this embodiment of the invention can now be readily understood. With the cap 18 in the closed, sealing position of FIG. 4, it can be seen that the cap exterior presents a smooth, domed configuration substantially devoid of gripping protrusions. The cap is firmly held in this position by the engagement of the cooperable detent beads 32, 34. It is to be noted that the cap bearing rib 42 is in engagement with the surfaces 39, 40 (FIG. 2) of the spout. In order to effect removal of the cap, it is first necessary to apply a depressing force thereto adjacent the location of the hinge web structure 20 as illustrated in FIG. 5. The application of such a force will cause tilting or rocking of the cap as shown. The latter pivots on the bearing rib 42, and that portion of the depending skirt 36 adjacent the location of the hinge web structure occupies part of the space 44 on the cap body between the spout 22 and the upstanding flange 26. As the cap is tilted, the bead 34 thereof is forced past the bead 32 on the spout at the front of the cap (opposite the hinge) thus exposing the lifting edge 56 of the cap for engagement by the fingers of the user, as shown in FIG. 5. From this tilted position, the cap can be readily lifted by prying movement to the open, product-discharging position of FIG. 1 wherein the container is ready to use. Optionally, the cap may have a raised pressure portion 58 in the form of a spot on the domed surface 38 as shown in FIG. 3, to indicate to the user the location for applying the depressing force, but this is not necessary for proper operation of the closure. Following use of the dispenser, the cap 18 can be swung from the position of FIG. 1 to that of FIG. 4 directly, since more than adequate force can be applied to the cap to cause the detent beads 32, 34 to bypass one another during this closing operation. A series of upstanding lugs 59, shown in FIG. 2, engage the surface 28 (FIG. 2) of the cap and serve as a stop therefor when the cap is swung to the sealing, closed position. This prevents excessive force being applied to the cap and spout, thus preventing deformation thereof during the closing operation.
As best illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 4, the depending skirt 36 of the cap forms one wall of a V-groove 60. The skirt 36 is capable of flexing and thus facilitates the by-passing movement of the bead 34 and the spout bead 32. In the present construction, the spout bead is fairly rigid, and it will be understood that most of the flexing movement during by-pass of the beads occurs in a radially outward direction in this skirt 36. The V-groove 60 can extend entirely around the periphery of the cap 18, but I have found that it is desirable to partially fill in the groove immediately adjacent the point of connection of the hinge web structure 20. Since little or no flexing of the skirt 36 occurs here, no groove is necessary. The effect of the filled-in groove is to tend to make the cap 18 more rigid with respect to the web 20. This would be important where the initial depressing force was to be applied to the hinge instead of to the cap itself, as will be explained below.
FIG. 2 illustrates several additional features of the closure cap construction. Disposed on the cap body 14 near its periphery are the spaced-apart upstanding flanges 26, which extend on opposite sides of the hinge web structure 20. A part 64 of the flange 26 is disposed between two posts as illustrated. The posts 61, 62 function to prevent access to the upstanding flange part 64 by the teeth of a child. Although the flange is fairly rigid, I have found that a more substantial barrier is desirable to have at the front of the cap, and the posts adequately serve the above purpose.
Another embodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, illustrating a closure construction comprising a cap body 14 substantially identical in construction to that illustrated in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-5, and a closure cap 64 held captive by a flexible hinge web structure 20. The cap body 14 comprises an upstanding spout 22 having a discharge opening 24, an external annular sealing bead 32 on the spout and upper bearing surfaces 39, 40 adjacent the location of the sealing bead. An upstanding flange 26 and posts 61, 62 operate in substantially the same manner as in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-5. The cap 64 comprises a depending skirt 66 having an annular internal sealing bead 68 which is sealingly engageable with the bead 32 to maintain the cap 64 in the closed, or sealing position. An elongate sealing plug 70 is receivable in the discharge opening 24 to provide a secondary seal as described in connection with the first-mentioned embodiment. With the exception of the ribs (to be discussed below) on the underside of the cap, the latter is substantially symmetrical about an axis 72 in alignment with the depending sealing plug 70. The axis 72 is perpendicular to the plane of the paper in FIG. 6. By the present invention, there is provided a longitudinal bearing rib 74 which is off-center with respect to the axis 72. This rib normally engages the surfaces 39, 40 of the spout 22 when the cap is in the closed, sealing position. The rib enables a limited pivotal movement of the cap, as in the first-mentioned embodiment.
Referring to FIG. 7, during operation of this embodiment, a depressing force is applied by the user's fingers to the cap 64 adjacent the hinge 20. Due to the off-center rib 74, the cap tilts a greater amount than in the first embodiment, the greater tilt being sufficient to cause a complete disengagement of the sealing beads 68 and 32. As a result, the beads completely by-pass one another and the cap 64 assumes its open, product-discharging position analogous to that of FIG. 1. Such an arrangement permits removal of the cap by a single depressing operation, as opposed to the construction of FIGS. 1-5 where a depress-and-lift operation was required. The reclosure of the cap to the sealing position is readily effected, as in the first embodiment. The additional ribs 76, 78 adjacent rib 74 provide stiffening, and in addition the rib 78 constitutes a seat for the cap on the upper surface of the spout when the cap is in the sealing or closed position.
Another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 8, showing a cap body 80, and cap 18 connected therewith by a flexible hinge 20. In this embodiment, the cap 18 and hinge 20 are identical to those illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 and discussed in connection therewith. The cap 80 comprises an upstanding flange 82, upstanding posts 84, 86 which function in the same manner as posts 61, 62 of the cap of FIG. 2, and upstanding lugs 88 which provide a seat for the underside surface 28 of the cap 18. In accordance with the present invention there is provided an upstanding spout 90 on the cap body, an external sealing bead 92 engageable with the corresponding internal bead 34 of the cap 18, and bearing surfaces in the form of reinforcing lands 94, 96 having a somewhat raised configuration. These lands provide a more rigid support for the bearing rib 42 of the cap, and tend to prevent permanent deformation of the spout 90 after prolonged periods of use.
Yet another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 9-11, showing a closure cap 18 held captive on a cap body 100 by a hinge 98. The cap 18 is identical to that illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 and discussed in connection therewith. By the present invention there is provided on the cap body 100 an upstanding flange 102 extending at least partially around the juncture of the cap body and cap when the latter is disposed in the closed, sealing position of FIG. 9. The flange has a substantially constant thickness except for the part 108 disposed between the two upstanding posts 104, 106, this part being thinner than the rest. The part 108 is also separated from the posts so as to enable limited inward flexing movement thereof, as illustrated in FIG. 10. The height of the part 108 is sufficient to normally cover the juncture 110 of the cap body and cap, so as to prevent access to the same by a child or other unauthorized person. In this embodiment there is also provided a reinforcing bridge 112 joining the hinge web 98 and cap 18.
The operation of this embodiment can now be readily understood. With the cap 18 in the sealed position of FIG. 9, the closure construction presents a smooth domed cap having no gripping protrusions. The juncture of the lugs 88 and lifting edge 56 is hidden by the flange part 108, thus preventing the closure from being directly pryed off. Authorized opening of the closure is accomplished by applying a depressing force to either the cap itself or to the portion of the hinge adjacent the cap. The reinforcing bridge 112 minimizes relative movement between the two pieces to enable application of the force to either part. FIG. 10 illustrates the force being applied to the hinge 98. As this is done, the cap 18 is tilted, since it is pivoting on the rib 42. The tilting in turn raises the lifting edge 56 somewhat. Upon removal of the depressing force, the cap 18 will remain in the position of FIG. 10, since the corresponding detent beads of the cap and spout are still partially engaged. Next, the user flexes the flange part 108 inward slightly in order to engage the lifting edge 56 with the nail, and effects lifting of the cap. Provision of a flexible flange part 108 facilitates the engagement of the lifting edge by the finger of the user, without materially affecting the safety function, and may be a desirable feature for some applications. In this embodiment, a raised portion 113 is optionally provided on the hinge itself to indicate to the user the location for applying the depressing force. The option of initially pressing either the cap or the hinge adds flexibility to the closure function and will be advantageous under certain circumstances.
Another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, showing a closure construction comprising a closure cap 18, hinge web structure 20 and cap body 114. The cap 18 and web 20 are identical to those illustrated in FIGS. 1-5. By the present invention, the cap body 114 comprises an upstanding flange 116 having a height at least sufficient to cover the underside surface 28 of the cap and prevent access thereto when the latter is in the sealing position of FIG. 13, and having a substantially constant radius of curvature 118. The part 120 of the flange 118 lying between the upstanding posts 122, 124 also has a substantially constant radius of curvature 126 which is less than the radius 118. The height of the part 120 is just sufficient to meet and fit snugly against the under surface 28 of the cap 18 when the latter is in the closed, sealing position of FIG. 13. By such arrangement, the crack between the cap surface 28 and part 120 is sufficiently small to prevent engagement of the lifting edge 56 by the nail of the user. In this embodiment, as in the previous ones, the upstanding posts 122, 124 prevent a child from inserting his teeth in the crack between the cap and flange part 120. Opening is accomplished by first pressing down on the cap to tilt the same, causing the front of the cap to be lifted, and subsequently engaging the lifting edge 56 with the fingers to pry off the cap.
Yet another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 14-16, showing a safety closure construction comprising a cap body 14, a cap 128 and a connecting hinge web 20. The cap body 14 and connecting web 20 are identical to those of FIGS. 1-5. Under certain circumstances it is desirable to provide for a construction wherein either greater or lesser pressures are required by the user in order to lift the cap 128 or to reclose the same. This is accomplished by reducing the cross sectional area of the annular bead 130 at the vicinity opposite the point of attachment of the hinge web 20. As illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, the cross-sectional area of the bead 130 at the sides of the cap is greater than that at the said vicinity. The reduced cross-sectional area of the bead facilitates tilting of the cap 128 when pressure is applied to the domed surface adjacent the hinge, thus making the initial opening operation smoother and easier. Replacement of the cap is also facilitated since the bead 130 will more easily by-pass the spout bead 32 during reclosing. Alternately, the cap bead 130 could have a constant cross-sectional area, and the spout bead 32 reduced in size at the appropriate corresponding location for achieving the same results as above.
Still another embodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. 17-19. The cap body 14 and hinge 20 are identical in construction to those illustrated in FIGS. 1-5. By the present invention, the underside of the cap 132 comprises an annular, depending guide bead 134 extending at least partially around the periphery of the cap 132. The cross-sectional configuration of this bead is particularly illustrated in FIG. 19. The bead 134 functions as a guide during reclosure of the cap, by cooperating with the upstanding flange 26 which tends to centralize the cap with respect to the cap body and to thus align the cap sealing bead 136 with the spout sealing bead 32. This is accomplished when the outside bevelled edge 138 of the guide bead 134 and the flange 26 engage one another. The bead 134 can extend either entirely or only partially around the cap periphery, this latter case being shown in FIG. 17, the interruption in the bead 134 being designated 140. Such an interruption presents a planar lifting edge on the underside of the cap and facilitates engagement of the edge by the user's nail during opening.
Still another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 20-22, showing a safety closure construction comprising a cap body 142 and a cap 144 held captive by a flexible hinge web structure 146. In accordance with the present invention there is provided on the cap body 142 an upstanding flange 148 extending at least partially around the juncture of the cap body and cap when the latter is in the closed, sealing position, a pair of upstanding posts 150, 152 on the body 142 bearing access to the lifting surface 154 of the cap (FIG. 21) by the teeth of a small child, and additional upstanding posts 156, 158 on the body disposed adjacent the hinge web structure 146. The additional posts provide a shield for the hinge 146 when the latter is in the position shown in FIG. 20, and have been found to be very effective in preventing attempts by a small child to employ his teeth to directly pry off the cap. Note that only a very small loop portion of the hinge is exposed, and I have found that this loop does not provide sufficient area to enable the child to engage the hinge with his teeth and force off the cap.
The operation of the closure is analogous that of the previous embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-5, except that in the present case, the initial downward pressure must be applied to the cap itself and not to the hinge. To facilitate this, there is provided a U-shaped raised pressure portion 160, shown particularly in FIGS. 20 and 22. This raised portion defines a shallow recess 162 to indicate the location for applying pressure and to receive the end of the user's finger. The raised portion can be conveniently molded integral with the domed surface of the cap, and thus presents no additional expense in the manufacture of the closure.
A still further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 23, 24 and 25. This embodiment differs from the previously described embodiments in that the tilting of the cap is sidewise, and that as the latter tilts it results in one side raising and providing access for the users fingernail under the edge. The lifting force is then applied to the raised edge of the cap after the other side has been depressed.
Parts similar to those already described above have not been given reference numerals and will not be described further, since this is unnecessary. Considering FIG. 24, the cap 175 has a curved bead 177 constituted as an integral raised portion, such bead indicating the place where donwward pressure is to be applied. Due to the raised nature of the portion 177 a greater downward pressure can be readily exerted at this point. Upon such pressure being brought to bear, the opposite side portion 179 of the cap will be raised slightly, as in the manner illustrated in FIG. 10 for example. This will enable the user to apply his fingernail under the portion 179 so as to complete the removal of the cap 175 from the cap body 181.
Considering FIG. 23, the cap 175 has fulcrum beads 183 and 185 which are engageable respectively with a groove 187 and a raised nib 189 of the cap body 181. By such construction the sidewise tilting of the cap 175 can be readily effected, by virtue of the fulcrums 183, 185. A strengthening fillet 191 is provided within the front wall 193 of the cap body 181, and the body has a pair of upstanding guard ears or hinge guard posts 195 disposed on opposite sides of the hinge web 197. The guard ears 195 have tapered depending portions 199, FIG. 25, which prevent an unauthorized user from applying his teeth to the hinge web 197 in an effort to dislodge and directly remove the cap 175.
Referring to FIGS. 23, 26 and 27, the cap body is shown as being provided with a supporting ledge 202 which is located inside the flange 26a in a position diametrically opposite the raised pressure portion 177 of the cap 175. The ledge 202 engages the adjoining rim portion 204 of the cap, and constitutes a positioning means for the latter. Also, the cap body has a detent nib 206 located in the flange 26a, arranged to engage the adjoining rim portion 208 of the cap 175 as seen in FIG. 26. When pressure is applied to the portion 177 of the cap as illustrated in FIG. 27, the rim portion 208 thereof will be forced downwardly past the nib 206, and the diametrically opposite rim portion 204 will be raised out of engagement with the ledge 202. The provision of the ledge and nib results in a more distinct and definitive action when the cap is being actuated for removal, as can be readily understood.
In other respects generally the cap construction of FIGS. 23-27 is similar to those already described above.
From the foregoing it can be seen that I provided a novel and improved safety closure which is simple in construction, inexpensive to manufacture, and is capable of being molded in plastic as a single integral piece. The closure provides quick access to the container by authorized personnel, and yet features excellent protection and safety to young children. It is thus seen to represent a distinct advance and improvement in safety closure technology.
Variations and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention.
This invention relates generally to safety closures, and more particularly to closures of the type which are maintained in a locked position and require the performance of a certain simple operation by a knowledgeable or authorized person in order to effect the unlocking.
In the past, a number of safety cap constructions have been proposed. Some employed merely a tight-fitting cap having a small finger-engageable tab for enabling application of a reasonable prying force by the user. Others incorporated caps which were keyed to the container neck, wherein rotation of the cap was required to bring into registration one or more marker arrows prior to opening. Still others employed a cap having a smooth exterior surface which closely abutted an adjoining surface on the cap body or container neck, thus presenting only a very small crack at the juncture thereof; this hindered direct removal of the cap by a small child or unauthorized person. The above safety closures had a number of disadvantages. Many were unsatisfactory in that for the average consumer, they presented too great a difficulty in opening the container. Others were too easily opened, with the result that the caps did not prevent access by unauthorized personnel, and thus did not function as true safety closures. In certain cases as where the cap was not held captive, it would frequently become lost or misplaced during use of the container, in which case the safety function of the cap was completely defeated.
SUMMARY
The above drawbacks and disadvantages of prior safety closures are obviated by the present invention which has for an object the provision of a novel and improved safety cap its structure which is simple in construction, reliable in operation and which at the same time represents a practical solution to the problem of providing a closure which can be easily opened by the average consumer while nevertheless presenting great difficulty to unauthorized persons such as small children. Another object is the provision of a safety closure which can be readily molded as a single piece in simple mold cavities.
These objects are accomplished by the provision of a safety cap construction comprising a tubular cap body having a top discharge opening, and closure cap held captive thereon by a flexible hinge web structure. The cap body has an upstanding spout with an external detent and sealing bead which is engageable with a corresponding bead on the underside of the cap, the beads tending to hold the cap in a closed, sealing position on the cap body. The closure cap has a lifting edge on its underside, which is hidden by an upstanding flange on the cap body. A pivot rib on the underside of the cap is engageable with a bearing surface on the spout, and limited pivotal or rocking movement of the cap in its sealing, closed position can be effected by depressing a designated point thereon. The arrangement is such that upon the application of such a depressing force, the cap tilts slightly, exposing the lifting edge thereof above the upstanding flange. This enables engagement of the edge by the finger of the user and permits the removal of the cap.
Other features and advantages will hereinafter appear.
In the drawings, illustrating several embodiments of the invention:
FIG. 1 is a vertical view of a container employing the safety cap construction of the present invention, shown in the open or product-discharging position.
FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the safety cap construction of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 is a bottom plan view of the safety cap construction of FIGS. 1 and 2.
FIG. 4 is a vertical section of the safety cap construction of FIGS. 1-3, shown in the closed, sealing position.
FIG. 5 is a vertical section like that of FIG. 4, except showing the closure cap being depressed adjacent the location of the hinge web structure and thereafter being lifted at its opposite edge by the fingers of the user.
FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a modified safety cap construction, showing an off-center pivot rib on the underside of the closure cap, this construction constituting another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of the cap construction of FIG. 6, showing the closure cap being depressed adjacent the hinge web structure.
FIG. 8 is a top plan view of a further modified safety cap construction, incorporating reinforcing lands on the upstanding spout portion of the cap body, this construction constituting yet another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 9 is a front elevational view of a still further modified safety cap construction, showing that part of the upstanding flange disposed between the posts being disconnected therefrom, and being capable of undergoing limited inward flexing movement, this construction constituting yet another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 10 is a vertical sectional view of the safety cap construction of FIG. 9, showing the cap being depressed adjacent the location of the hinge web structure and thereafter lifted at its opposite edge by the fingers of the user.
FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the safety cap construction of FIGS. 9 and 10.
FIG. 12 is a top plan view of a further modified safety cap construction, showing part of the upstanding flange between the posts on the cap body disposed inwardly of other flange portions, this construction constituting still another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 13 is a front elevational view of the safety cap construction of FIG. 12.
FIG. 14 is a top plan view of a further modified safety cap construction, showing a detent bead on the underside of the cap, the bead having a portion of a reduced cross-sectional area, this construction constituting still another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 15 is a section taken on line 15--15 of FIG. 14.
FIG. 16 is a section taken on line 16--16 of FIG. 14.
FIG. 17 is a top plan view of a still further modified safety cap construction, showing a guide bead on the closure cap for facilitating replacement thereof on the cap body, this construction constituting yet another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 18 is a section taken on line 18--18 of FIG. 17.
FIG. 19 is a section taken on line 19--19 of FIG. 17.
FIG. 20 is a side elevational view of a further modified cap construction incorporating two upstanding posts on the cap body disposed on opposite sides of the hinge web structure, the posts preventing engagement of the hinge web by the teeth of a small child, this construction constituting yet another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 21 is a top plan view of the closure cap construction of FIG. 20.
FIG. 22 is a bottom plan view of the closure cap construction of FIG. 20.
FIG. 23 is a top plan view of a cap construction having its stopper in the open position, illustrating still another embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 24 is a top plan view of the cap construction of FIG. 23, with the stopper in the closed or sealing position.
FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of the cap construction of FIGS. 23 and 24, with the stopper in the closed position.
FIG. 26 is a fragmentary section taken on line 26--26 of FIG. 23.
FIG. 27 is a section similar to FIG. 26, except showing the cap disposed in a tilted position.
Referring first to FIGS. 1-5 there is illustrated a safety cap construction generally designated by the numeral 10, for use with a container 12 of the hand-held type adapted to dispense a liquid product. The cap construction comprises a tubular cap body 14 having an external annular groove 16 by which the body can be snapped into and permanently held on the container as illustrated in FIG. 1, and a closure cap 18 held captive on the cap body by means of a flexible hinge web structure 20. The cap 18 can be swung to a sealing, closed position illustrated in FIG. 4 from an open, or product-discharging position illustrated in FIG. 1. Disposed on the cap body 14 is an upstanding dispensing spout 22 having a central discharge aperture 24 which may be either a single opening or multiple openings, and may have varied characteristics depending upon the nature of the product being dispensed and upon the direction of discharge desired. For example, with the particular configuration shown in FIGS. 1-5, the product is dispensed in a stream at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the cap and container.
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a novel safety cap construction comprising the combination of an upstanding flange 26 carried on the cap body 18 and extending at least partially around the juncture formed by the annular surfaces 28 and 30 of the closure cap 18 and cap body 14, respectively yieldable detent means on the cap body and cap for maintaining the latter in a closed, sealing position, and pivot bearing means on the cap body and cap enabling limited tilting or rocking movement of the latter in response to application of a depressing force applied to one side of the cap, as will be explained below. The upstanding spout 22 is generally rigid and has at its uppermost part a yieldable, external annular sealing bead 32 which is adapted to cooperate with a corresponding internal annular sealing bead 34 carried on a skirt 36 depending from the underside of the closure cap 18, the two beads sealingly engaging one another when the closure cap is in the closed position of FIG. 4 and thus constituting the yieldable detent means holding the closure cap firmly on the body. It will be readily understood that the domed surface 38 of the closure cap is smooth and devoid of any gripping protrusions and, when the cap is in the sealing position, there exists no point of access to the cap for directly prying off the same, due to the flange 26 which extends roughly up to the periphery of the domed surface 38.
Referring particularly to FIG. 2, in accordance with the present invention, the upstanding spout has a raised upper bearing surface comprising oppositely disposed areas 39, 40 of the spout adjacent the location of the sealing bead 32. The closure cap 18 has a bearing rib 42 disposed on its underside, the rib being of such dimensions as to engage the areas 39, 40 when the cap is in the closed, sealing position of FIG. 4. As also illustrated in FIG. 1, there is a recess 44 on the cap body 14 between the spout 22 and the upstanding flange 26, the purpose of which is to provide a clearance space for the depending skirt 36 of the cap when the latter is tilted to the position of FIG. 5 during the opening procedure as will be explained below. Additional ribs 46 and 48 (FIG. 2) in the closure cap 18 provide stiffening therefor. Rib 46 also engages the upper bearing surface of the spout 22, to provide a seat for the cap in the closed position. It can be seen that the rib 48 is shorter than the others, and a space 50 exists in order to provide clearance for the portion 52 of the spout when the cap is tilted to the position of FIG. 5. A depending sealer plug 54 is received in the spout opening 24 when the cap is in the closed position to provide a secondary seal of the closure.
In accordance with the present invention, there is further provided on the underside of the closure cap 18 a normally inaccessible lifting edge 56 at a point substantially opposite the location of the hinge web structure 20. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, it can be seen that for the closed condition of the cap, this edge is located below the top edge of the upstanding flange 26 on the cap body and is not exposed, thus preventing direct engagement thereof by the fingers and unauthorized direct removal of the cap.
The operation of this embodiment of the invention can now be readily understood. With the cap 18 in the closed, sealing position of FIG. 4, it can be seen that the cap exterior presents a smooth, domed configuration substantially devoid of gripping protrusions. The cap is firmly held in this position by the engagement of the cooperable detent beads 32, 34. It is to be noted that the cap bearing rib 42 is in engagement with the surfaces 39, 40 (FIG. 2) of the spout. In order to effect removal of the cap, it is first necessary to apply a depressing force thereto adjacent the location of the hinge web structure 20 as illustrated in FIG. 5. The application of such a force will cause tilting or rocking of the cap as shown. The latter pivots on the bearing rib 42, and that portion of the depending skirt 36 adjacent the location of the hinge web structure occupies part of the space 44 on the cap body between the spout 22 and the upstanding flange 26. As the cap is tilted, the bead 34 thereof is forced past the bead 32 on the spout at the front of the cap (opposite the hinge) thus exposing the lifting edge 56 of the cap for engagement by the fingers of the user, as shown in FIG. 5. From this tilted position, the cap can be readily lifted by prying movement to the open, product-discharging position of FIG. 1 wherein the container is ready to use. Optionally, the cap may have a raised pressure portion 58 in the form of a spot on the domed surface 38 as shown in FIG. 3, to indicate to the user the location for applying the depressing force, but this is not necessary for proper operation of the closure. Following use of the dispenser, the cap 18 can be swung from the position of FIG. 1 to that of FIG. 4 directly, since more than adequate force can be applied to the cap to cause the detent beads 32, 34 to bypass one another during this closing operation. A series of upstanding lugs 59, shown in FIG. 2, engage the surface 28 (FIG. 2) of the cap and serve as a stop therefor when the cap is swung to the sealing, closed position. This prevents excessive force being applied to the cap and spout, thus preventing deformation thereof during the closing operation.
As best illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 4, the depending skirt 36 of the cap forms one wall of a V-groove 60. The skirt 36 is capable of flexing and thus facilitates the by-passing movement of the bead 34 and the spout bead 32. In the present construction, the spout bead is fairly rigid, and it will be understood that most of the flexing movement during by-pass of the beads occurs in a radially outward direction in this skirt 36. The V-groove 60 can extend entirely around the periphery of the cap 18, but I have found that it is desirable to partially fill in the groove immediately adjacent the point of connection of the hinge web structure 20. Since little or no flexing of the skirt 36 occurs here, no groove is necessary. The effect of the filled-in groove is to tend to make the cap 18 more rigid with respect to the web 20. This would be important where the initial depressing force was to be applied to the hinge instead of to the cap itself, as will be explained below.
FIG. 2 illustrates several additional features of the closure cap construction. Disposed on the cap body 14 near its periphery are the spaced-apart upstanding flanges 26, which extend on opposite sides of the hinge web structure 20. A part 64 of the flange 26 is disposed between two posts as illustrated. The posts 61, 62 function to prevent access to the upstanding flange part 64 by the teeth of a child. Although the flange is fairly rigid, I have found that a more substantial barrier is desirable to have at the front of the cap, and the posts adequately serve the above purpose.
Another embodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, illustrating a closure construction comprising a cap body 14 substantially identical in construction to that illustrated in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-5, and a closure cap 64 held captive by a flexible hinge web structure 20. The cap body 14 comprises an upstanding spout 22 having a discharge opening 24, an external annular sealing bead 32 on the spout and upper bearing surfaces 39, 40 adjacent the location of the sealing bead. An upstanding flange 26 and posts 61, 62 operate in substantially the same manner as in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-5. The cap 64 comprises a depending skirt 66 having an annular internal sealing bead 68 which is sealingly engageable with the bead 32 to maintain the cap 64 in the closed, or sealing position. An elongate sealing plug 70 is receivable in the discharge opening 24 to provide a secondary seal as described in connection with the first-mentioned embodiment. With the exception of the ribs (to be discussed below) on the underside of the cap, the latter is substantially symmetrical about an axis 72 in alignment with the depending sealing plug 70. The axis 72 is perpendicular to the plane of the paper in FIG. 6. By the present invention, there is provided a longitudinal bearing rib 74 which is off-center with respect to the axis 72. This rib normally engages the surfaces 39, 40 of the spout 22 when the cap is in the closed, sealing position. The rib enables a limited pivotal movement of the cap, as in the first-mentioned embodiment.
Referring to FIG. 7, during operation of this embodiment, a depressing force is applied by the user's fingers to the cap 64 adjacent the hinge 20. Due to the off-center rib 74, the cap tilts a greater amount than in the first embodiment, the greater tilt being sufficient to cause a complete disengagement of the sealing beads 68 and 32. As a result, the beads completely by-pass one another and the cap 64 assumes its open, product-discharging position analogous to that of FIG. 1. Such an arrangement permits removal of the cap by a single depressing operation, as opposed to the construction of FIGS. 1-5 where a depress-and-lift operation was required. The reclosure of the cap to the sealing position is readily effected, as in the first embodiment. The additional ribs 76, 78 adjacent rib 74 provide stiffening, and in addition the rib 78 constitutes a seat for the cap on the upper surface of the spout when the cap is in the sealing or closed position.
Another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 8, showing a cap body 80, and cap 18 connected therewith by a flexible hinge 20. In this embodiment, the cap 18 and hinge 20 are identical to those illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 and discussed in connection therewith. The cap 80 comprises an upstanding flange 82, upstanding posts 84, 86 which function in the same manner as posts 61, 62 of the cap of FIG. 2, and upstanding lugs 88 which provide a seat for the underside surface 28 of the cap 18. In accordance with the present invention there is provided an upstanding spout 90 on the cap body, an external sealing bead 92 engageable with the corresponding internal bead 34 of the cap 18, and bearing surfaces in the form of reinforcing lands 94, 96 having a somewhat raised configuration. These lands provide a more rigid support for the bearing rib 42 of the cap, and tend to prevent permanent deformation of the spout 90 after prolonged periods of use.
Yet another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 9-11, showing a closure cap 18 held captive on a cap body 100 by a hinge 98. The cap 18 is identical to that illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 and discussed in connection therewith. By the present invention there is provided on the cap body 100 an upstanding flange 102 extending at least partially around the juncture of the cap body and cap when the latter is disposed in the closed, sealing position of FIG. 9. The flange has a substantially constant thickness except for the part 108 disposed between the two upstanding posts 104, 106, this part being thinner than the rest. The part 108 is also separated from the posts so as to enable limited inward flexing movement thereof, as illustrated in FIG. 10. The height of the part 108 is sufficient to normally cover the juncture 110 of the cap body and cap, so as to prevent access to the same by a child or other unauthorized person. In this embodiment there is also provided a reinforcing bridge 112 joining the hinge web 98 and cap 18.
The operation of this embodiment can now be readily understood. With the cap 18 in the sealed position of FIG. 9, the closure construction presents a smooth domed cap having no gripping protrusions. The juncture of the lugs 88 and lifting edge 56 is hidden by the flange part 108, thus preventing the closure from being directly pryed off. Authorized opening of the closure is accomplished by applying a depressing force to either the cap itself or to the portion of the hinge adjacent the cap. The reinforcing bridge 112 minimizes relative movement between the two pieces to enable application of the force to either part. FIG. 10 illustrates the force being applied to the hinge 98. As this is done, the cap 18 is tilted, since it is pivoting on the rib 42. The tilting in turn raises the lifting edge 56 somewhat. Upon removal of the depressing force, the cap 18 will remain in the position of FIG. 10, since the corresponding detent beads of the cap and spout are still partially engaged. Next, the user flexes the flange part 108 inward slightly in order to engage the lifting edge 56 with the nail, and effects lifting of the cap. Provision of a flexible flange part 108 facilitates the engagement of the lifting edge by the finger of the user, without materially affecting the safety function, and may be a desirable feature for some applications. In this embodiment, a raised portion 113 is optionally provided on the hinge itself to indicate to the user the location for applying the depressing force. The option of initially pressing either the cap or the hinge adds flexibility to the closure function and will be advantageous under certain circumstances.
Another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, showing a closure construction comprising a closure cap 18, hinge web structure 20 and cap body 114. The cap 18 and web 20 are identical to those illustrated in FIGS. 1-5. By the present invention, the cap body 114 comprises an upstanding flange 116 having a height at least sufficient to cover the underside surface 28 of the cap and prevent access thereto when the latter is in the sealing position of FIG. 13, and having a substantially constant radius of curvature 118. The part 120 of the flange 118 lying between the upstanding posts 122, 124 also has a substantially constant radius of curvature 126 which is less than the radius 118. The height of the part 120 is just sufficient to meet and fit snugly against the under surface 28 of the cap 18 when the latter is in the closed, sealing position of FIG. 13. By such arrangement, the crack between the cap surface 28 and part 120 is sufficiently small to prevent engagement of the lifting edge 56 by the nail of the user. In this embodiment, as in the previous ones, the upstanding posts 122, 124 prevent a child from inserting his teeth in the crack between the cap and flange part 120. Opening is accomplished by first pressing down on the cap to tilt the same, causing the front of the cap to be lifted, and subsequently engaging the lifting edge 56 with the fingers to pry off the cap.
Yet another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 14-16, showing a safety closure construction comprising a cap body 14, a cap 128 and a connecting hinge web 20. The cap body 14 and connecting web 20 are identical to those of FIGS. 1-5. Under certain circumstances it is desirable to provide for a construction wherein either greater or lesser pressures are required by the user in order to lift the cap 128 or to reclose the same. This is accomplished by reducing the cross sectional area of the annular bead 130 at the vicinity opposite the point of attachment of the hinge web 20. As illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, the cross-sectional area of the bead 130 at the sides of the cap is greater than that at the said vicinity. The reduced cross-sectional area of the bead facilitates tilting of the cap 128 when pressure is applied to the domed surface adjacent the hinge, thus making the initial opening operation smoother and easier. Replacement of the cap is also facilitated since the bead 130 will more easily by-pass the spout bead 32 during reclosing. Alternately, the cap bead 130 could have a constant cross-sectional area, and the spout bead 32 reduced in size at the appropriate corresponding location for achieving the same results as above.
Still another embodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. 17-19. The cap body 14 and hinge 20 are identical in construction to those illustrated in FIGS. 1-5. By the present invention, the underside of the cap 132 comprises an annular, depending guide bead 134 extending at least partially around the periphery of the cap 132. The cross-sectional configuration of this bead is particularly illustrated in FIG. 19. The bead 134 functions as a guide during reclosure of the cap, by cooperating with the upstanding flange 26 which tends to centralize the cap with respect to the cap body and to thus align the cap sealing bead 136 with the spout sealing bead 32. This is accomplished when the outside bevelled edge 138 of the guide bead 134 and the flange 26 engage one another. The bead 134 can extend either entirely or only partially around the cap periphery, this latter case being shown in FIG. 17, the interruption in the bead 134 being designated 140. Such an interruption presents a planar lifting edge on the underside of the cap and facilitates engagement of the edge by the user's nail during opening.
Still another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 20-22, showing a safety closure construction comprising a cap body 142 and a cap 144 held captive by a flexible hinge web structure 146. In accordance with the present invention there is provided on the cap body 142 an upstanding flange 148 extending at least partially around the juncture of the cap body and cap when the latter is in the closed, sealing position, a pair of upstanding posts 150, 152 on the body 142 bearing access to the lifting surface 154 of the cap (FIG. 21) by the teeth of a small child, and additional upstanding posts 156, 158 on the body disposed adjacent the hinge web structure 146. The additional posts provide a shield for the hinge 146 when the latter is in the position shown in FIG. 20, and have been found to be very effective in preventing attempts by a small child to employ his teeth to directly pry off the cap. Note that only a very small loop portion of the hinge is exposed, and I have found that this loop does not provide sufficient area to enable the child to engage the hinge with his teeth and force off the cap.
The operation of the closure is analogous that of the previous embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-5, except that in the present case, the initial downward pressure must be applied to the cap itself and not to the hinge. To facilitate this, there is provided a U-shaped raised pressure portion 160, shown particularly in FIGS. 20 and 22. This raised portion defines a shallow recess 162 to indicate the location for applying pressure and to receive the end of the user's finger. The raised portion can be conveniently molded integral with the domed surface of the cap, and thus presents no additional expense in the manufacture of the closure.
A still further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 23, 24 and 25. This embodiment differs from the previously described embodiments in that the tilting of the cap is sidewise, and that as the latter tilts it results in one side raising and providing access for the users fingernail under the edge. The lifting force is then applied to the raised edge of the cap after the other side has been depressed.
Parts similar to those already described above have not been given reference numerals and will not be described further, since this is unnecessary. Considering FIG. 24, the cap 175 has a curved bead 177 constituted as an integral raised portion, such bead indicating the place where donwward pressure is to be applied. Due to the raised nature of the portion 177 a greater downward pressure can be readily exerted at this point. Upon such pressure being brought to bear, the opposite side portion 179 of the cap will be raised slightly, as in the manner illustrated in FIG. 10 for example. This will enable the user to apply his fingernail under the portion 179 so as to complete the removal of the cap 175 from the cap body 181.
Considering FIG. 23, the cap 175 has fulcrum beads 183 and 185 which are engageable respectively with a groove 187 and a raised nib 189 of the cap body 181. By such construction the sidewise tilting of the cap 175 can be readily effected, by virtue of the fulcrums 183, 185. A strengthening fillet 191 is provided within the front wall 193 of the cap body 181, and the body has a pair of upstanding guard ears or hinge guard posts 195 disposed on opposite sides of the hinge web 197. The guard ears 195 have tapered depending portions 199, FIG. 25, which prevent an unauthorized user from applying his teeth to the hinge web 197 in an effort to dislodge and directly remove the cap 175.
Referring to FIGS. 23, 26 and 27, the cap body is shown as being provided with a supporting ledge 202 which is located inside the flange 26a in a position diametrically opposite the raised pressure portion 177 of the cap 175. The ledge 202 engages the adjoining rim portion 204 of the cap, and constitutes a positioning means for the latter. Also, the cap body has a detent nib 206 located in the flange 26a, arranged to engage the adjoining rim portion 208 of the cap 175 as seen in FIG. 26. When pressure is applied to the portion 177 of the cap as illustrated in FIG. 27, the rim portion 208 thereof will be forced downwardly past the nib 206, and the diametrically opposite rim portion 204 will be raised out of engagement with the ledge 202. The provision of the ledge and nib results in a more distinct and definitive action when the cap is being actuated for removal, as can be readily understood.
In other respects generally the cap construction of FIGS. 23-27 is similar to those already described above.
From the foregoing it can be seen that I provided a novel and improved safety closure which is simple in construction, inexpensive to manufacture, and is capable of being molded in plastic as a single integral piece. The closure provides quick access to the container by authorized personnel, and yet features excellent protection and safety to young children. It is thus seen to represent a distinct advance and improvement in safety closure technology.
Variations and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention.