US20070251910A1 - Payload carrying and dispensing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention sets forth a closure apparatus which may include, an exemplary closure having a cavity to receive a payload; and an interface configured to secure the payload in said cavity of said closure wherein said interface may secure the payload in said closure when affixing said closure to a container, and wherein said interface may include a material that changes state.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
• This is a Non-provisional U.S. patent application claiming benefit under 35 U.S.C. Section 119(e) of presently pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/746,004, confirmation no. 3367 entitled “Product Dispensing Caps via Dissolving Membrane,” to Bradley Andrew Mastin, filed Apr. 28, 2006, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• 1. Field of the Invention
• The present invention relates generally to packaging, and more particularly to closures for packaging, and even more particularly to liquid container closures.
• 2. Related Art
• Conventionally, there are perhaps hundreds of different well known closure types for containers. For example, water bottle containers may conventionally include any of a wide variety of caps including, e.g., but not limited to, threaded caps, dispensing closures, tamper resistant closures, child-resistant closures, etc.
• In recent years, purchasing of bottled water has increased dramatically. During war, large amounts of bottled water may be provided to the military for example. Conventionally, it has been possible to add water soluble powder such as, e.g., but not limited to Kool Aid® and/or Crystal Lite® powdered beverage mixes to water bottles. However, conventionally it has been difficult to get all the powdered beverage mix into the bottle, especially small mouthed bottles.
• Conventional solutions to address the need for improved provision of powdered beverage for bottles, includes providing tearable paper packets containing the powdered beverage mixture. However, such conventional solutions have various shortcomings, including that the paper packets can become when and may be destroyed as a result.
• Various conventional packaging solutions exist including those set forth in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,772,017, 5,984,141, 7,041,326, 6,117,464, 6,123,189, 6,159,513, 6,165,523, 6,184,990, 6,186,051, 6,527,109, 6,610,339, 6,644,471, 6,692,780, 6,820,740, 6,886,686, 6,951,275, 6,962,254 and 7,055,684, the contents of all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Some conventional solutions require that a package must be punctured or pierced or otherwise parsed to allow a dissolvable material to be released. Others include a dissolvable disc. Others require an insert within an opening in a container. Others describe the use of a sachet, or an injector mechanism. Shortcomings of these conventional solutions include the requirement that packaging must be punctured to release the material. If the membrane malfunctions and stretches or is not successfully pierced, then the material is not released.
• What is needed is an improved delivery mechanism for powdered or other dissolvable mixtures that overcomes shortcomings of the conventional art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• An exemplary embodiment of the present invention sets forth a closure apparatus which may include, an exemplary closure having a cavity to receive a payload; and an interface configured to secure the payload in said cavity of said closure wherein said interface may secure the payload in said closure when affixing said closure to a container, and wherein said interface may include a material that changes state.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus where the closure is adapted to be secured to the container.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus where the closure may include at least one of: a snap-on capability allowing said closure to snap to the container; and/or a thread adapted to engage with threads on the container.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus where the interface may include a dissolvable interface.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus where the dissolvable interface may include a liquid dissolvable interface.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus where the liquid dissolvable interface may include a water-based liquid dissolvable interface.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus where the interface may include a Pullulan material.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus where the interface may include an edible interface.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus where the interface may include an edible Pullulan material.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus which may further include at least one of: a seal; more than one seals; a metal seal; a foil seal; an aluminum foil seal; a moisture seal; a seal at an opening of the closure; a seal internal to the opening of the closure; a seal internal to the opening of the closure at least one of above and/or below a threading of the closure; and/or a peel away seal.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus which may further include one or more fastening mechanisms. One exemplary embodiment may include where the fastening mechanism may include one or more O-rings. One exemplary embodiment may include the fastening mechanism which may include one or more tongue(s), which may be coupled to an interior of the closure.
• One exemplary embodiment may include a closure which may be cylindrical in shape and where the fastening mechanism may include one or more, or two or more O-rings coupled to the interface, affixing the interface within the closure against the at least one tongue.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus where the tongue may include one or more annular rings, which may be coupled to an internal edge or wall of the closure.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus where the tongue may include a one-directional member, allowing insertion of the interface, but preventing escape/unintended removal of the interface.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus further comprising a prepackaged payload, where the prepackaged payload may include one or more of any of: crystalline material, powdered material, granular, finely ground material, a beverage mix comprising at least one of: a dry milk material, a tea mix, a coffee mix, a flavored beverage mix, a baby formula, a dry lemonade, a flavor, a juice mix, a powder drink mix, an electrolyte power drink mix, an energy drink mix, a protein drink mix, a breakfast drink mix, and/or a sweetened beverage mix; a supplement comprising at least one of: a protein supplement, flavoring, a non-sugar sweetener, a diabetic product, a breakfast drink mix, a sweetener, a nutrient, an electrolyte power drink, an energy drink, a dietary supplement, and/or a vitamin supplement; a dehydrated food comprising at least one of: a dehydrated liquid remnant, dehydrated alcohol, a pancake mix, a cake mix, a pudding mix, a gelatin mix, and/or a soup mix; a fertilizer; an industrial chemical; a paint mixture; a coloring; a non-edible liquid dissolvable mixture; and/or a dissolvable medicine comprising at least one of: a pharmaceutical, an injestible, an antibiotic, a prescription drug, an over the counter drug, and/or a laxative.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus wherein the closure may include one or more of the following: a child resistant closure; a threaded closure; a continuously threaded closure; a dispensing closure comprising at least one of: a pump closure, a dropper closure, a brush based closure, a lift top closure, a threaded top closure, a mister closure, and/or a lotion dispensing closure; a tamper-evident (T-E) closure; a sports bottle closure; a clear closure; a colored closure; a ribbed closure; a plastic closure; a metal closure; a lid; a cap; a cover; a tip; a decorative closure; a holiday closure; a resealable closure; a nipple; and/or a protective cover covered closure.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the apparatus where the closure may be sold as part of a kit including a container.
• One exemplary embodiment may include the closure may be sold as part of a kit which may include a plurality of the closures, where each of the plurality of closures may include prepackaged payloads.
• One exemplary embodiment of the closure may include an upper rim, which may be adapted to receive another closure atop the closure to serve as a two-part closure.
• Further features and advantages of the invention, as well as the structure and operation of various embodiments of the invention, are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• The foregoing and other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following, more particular description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements. The left most digits in the corresponding reference number indicate the drawing in which an element first appears.
• FIG. 1A depicts an exemplary embodiment of a closure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 1B depicts an exemplary embodiment of an exploded view of the closure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 1C depicts an exemplary embodiment of a cross-sectional view of according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 2A depicts an exemplary embodiment of an exemplary child resistant closure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 2B depicts an exemplary embodiment of an exemplary continuous thread closure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 2C depicts an exemplary embodiment of an exemplary dispensing closure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 2D depicts an exemplary embodiment of an exemplary tamper-evident (T-E) closure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 2E depicts an exemplary embodiment of various exemplary conventional alternative closures, which may be modified as set forth herein according to any of the various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;
• FIG. 3A depicts an exemplary embodiment containers equipped with exemplary closures according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 3B depicts an exploded view andFIG. 3C depicts an enclosed view of another exemplary embodiment of an exemplary container equipped with an alternative embodiment of a two-part closure set forth further with reference toFIGS. 4A-4D, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention;
• FIG. 4A depicts an exemplary cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary two-part closure, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 4B depicts an exemplary bottom view of another alternative embodiment of an exemplary two-part closure, including a dissolvable interface according to any of the various exemplary embodiments of the present invention; and
• FIGS. 4C and 4D depict exemplary embodiments of closures including a dissolvable interface according to various exemplary embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
• A preferred embodiment of the invention is discussed in detail below. While specific exemplary embodiments are discussed, it should be understood that this is done for illustration purposes only. A person skilled in the relevant art will recognize that other components and configurations can be used without parting from the spirit and scope of the invention.
• FIG. 1A depicts an exemplary diagram100 illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the present invention including aclosure102 adapted to receive apayload104, including a liquidsoluble membrane106, which may be secured by one ormore fastening mechanisms110. In one exemplary embodiment, the closure may further includethreads108, if a threaded closure. Further, in an exemplary embodiment, the closure may further include aremovable moisture seal112, which may be foil, in an exemplary embodiment.
• FIG. 1B depicts an exemplary exploded view diagram120 illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the present invention including aclosure102 adapted to receive apayload104, including a liquidsoluble membrane106, which may be secured in the exemplary embodiment, by one or more O-ring fastening mechanisms110a,110b.In one exemplary embodiment, the closure may further include aremovable moisture seal112, which may be foil, in an exemplary embodiment.
• FIG. 1C depicts an exemplary cross-sectional view diagram140 illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the present invention including aclosure102 placed on abottle114, where theclosure102 may be adapted to receive a payload104 (not shown in this embodiment), may include a liquid soluble membrane or dissolvable interface106 (not shown in this embodiment), which may be secured in the exemplary embodiment, by one ormore fastening mechanisms110. In one exemplary embodiment, the closure may further include aremovable moisture seal112, which may be foil, in an exemplary embodiment (not shown in this embodiment).
• Exemplary Dissolvable Interfaces
• An exemplarydissolvable interface106 may include, in an exemplary embodiment, a liquid soluble membrane, such as, e.g., but not limited to a water soluble membrane, which may include a material that changes state when it comes in contact with a liquid. In an exemplary embodiment, a starch based dissolvable material may be used, such as, e.g., but not limited to, an edible film, such as, e.g., but not limited to, pullulan, or othersimilar interface106, etc.
• Pullulan is a polysaccharide polymer consisting of maltotriose units, also known as α-1,4 ;α-1,6-glucan. Three glucose units in maltotriose are connected by an α-1,4 glycosidic bond, whereas consecutive maltotriose units are connected to each other by an α-1,6 glycosidic bond. Pullulan is produced from starch by the fungus Aureobasidium pullulans.
• As an edible, mostly tasteless polymer, the chief commercial use of pullulan is in the manufacture of edible films that are used in various breath freshener or oral hygiene products such as Listerine™ Cool Mint PocketPaks™ available from Pfizer Consumer Healthcare of 201 Tabor Road, Morris Plains, N.J. U.S.A.
• According to an exemplary embodiment, thedissolvable interface106 may be dissolvable by bringing the interface in contact with liquid, thus releasingpayload104. According to another exemplary embodiment, thedissolvable interface106, may be edible, for use in edible/consumable applications of the invention such as for, e.g., but not limited to, soup, energy drinks, juices, sports beverages, beverages, etc.
• Other exemplarydissolvable interfaces106 may include, e.g., but are not limited to, dissolvable materials, dissolvable edible materials, dissolvable films, etc.
• Exemplary Payloads
• According to another exemplary embodiment, thepayload104, may be edible, for use in edible/consumable applications of the invention such as for, e.g., but not limited to, soup, energy drinks, juices, sports beverages, beverages, etc. According to another exemplary embodiment, thepayload104 may be nonedible. According to another exemplary embodiment, thepayload104 may be dissolvable in a liquid. According to another exemplary embodiment, thepayload104 may be crystalline, powdered, granular, and/or finely ground, or the like. According to an exemplary embodiment, thepayload104 may include a beverage mix such as, e.g., but not limited to, dry milk, tea, coffee, flavored beverages, baby formula, dry lemonade, flavors, juice mixes, powder drink mixes, electrolyte drink mixes (e.g., POWERADE®, GATORADE®, etc.), energy drink mixes, protein supplement, beverage mixes (such as, e.g., but not limited to, TANG®, KOOL-AID®, and/or CRYSTAL LITE®), etc. According to another exemplary embodiment, thepayload104 may be a supplement, such as, e.g., but not limited to, a protein supplement, a flavor (e.g., Nestle's QUICK®, OVALTINE®, PDQ®), a non-sugar sweetener (such as, e.g., but not limited to, EQUAL®, SPLENDA®, SWEET-AND-LOW®, Nutrasweet®, etc.), a diabetic product, a breakfast drink mix, a sweetener, nutrient, a powder drink, an energy drink, a dietary or vitamin supplement. According to another exemplary embodiment, thepayload104 may be a dehydrated food, and/or liquid remnant, dehydrated alcohol, pancake or other cake mix, pudding mix, gelatin mix, and/or soup mix, etc. According to another exemplary embodiment, thepayload104 may be a fertilizer (such as, e.g., but not limited to, MIRACLE GROW®), paint, or other industrial, and/or non-edible liquid mixtures. According to another exemplary embodiment, thepayload104 may be a medicine, pharmaceutical, injestible, antibiotic, a dissolving medicine, laxative, etc. (e.g., Alka-Seltzer®, Metamucil®, etc.), etc.
Exemplary Interface Fastening Mechanisms
• In an exemplary embodiment,closure102 may include afastening mechanism110 to hold thedissolvable interface106 in place so as to prevent the loss of thepayload material104 during placement of theclosure102 on abottle114. An exemplary fastening mechanism may include aninternal tongue110 over which thedissolvable interface106 may be inserted and retained. According to an other exemplary embodiment, thefastening mechanism110 may include, one or more O-rings to secure thedissolvable interface106 inside theclosure102.
Exemplary Coupling Mechanism to Couple the Closure to a Container
• According to an exemplary embodiment, threading108, or other coupling mechanisms used tocouple closure102 to acontainer114, may be placed sufficiently below the inner top of theclosure102, as shown in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1A, to prevent the upper edge ofcontainer114 from coming in direct contact withdissolvable interface106, so as to create a cavity inclosure102 permitting reception of apayload108 of a desired size. In an exemplary embodiment, afastening mechanism110 may be included inside theclosure102 to secure thedissolvable interface106. Exemplary fastening mechanisms, may include, e.g., but are not limited to, a ring, one or more protrusions toward the center of theclosure102, one or more one-directional movable baffles, one or more O-rings, which in an exemplary embodiment may include, e.g., but not limited to, two O-rings, one on either side ofdissolvable interface106, securing theinterface106.
• According to another exemplary embodiment, as shown in diagram140 ofFIG. 1C an upper edge of acontainer114 may dislodgedissolvable interface106, releasingpayload104 into thecontainer114, upon placing theclosure102 oncontainer114.
• Exemplary Sealing Mechanisms
• In one exemplary embodiment, aremovable moisture seal112 may be provided for theclosure102. In an exemplary embodiment, the moisture seal may include an Aluminum seal, which may be peeled away from theclosure102, according to an exemplary embodiment, prior to placing aclosure102 on acontainer114.
• According to an exemplary embodiment, a foil (or similar material)seal112 may be applied to a closure102-during the manufacturing process after insertion of a payload1104 andinterface106 to prevent thedissolvable interface106 from coming into contact with moisture or liquid. When a user is ready to use theclosure102, themoisture barrier seal112 may be removed immediately prior to affixing theclosure102 on acontainer114, to dissolve the interface and mix thepayload104 with the liquid contained incontainer114.
• After purchase of aclosure102, when ready to prepare a mixture, the user may remove thefoil seal112, and may couple (e.g., but not limited to, thread) theclosure102 to thecontainer114, until snug. At this point, themembrane interface106 is still intact (seeFIG. 1A), and theclosure102 may still be removed and/or reused, so long as the liquid is not brought in contact with theinterface106. Once the decision by the user has been made to activate the product, i.e., when the user desires to mix thepayload108 with the material in thecontainer114, then the user need only bring the liquid in contact with theinterface106, (SeeFIG. 3A-3C, for example), causing the interface to dissolve, and thereby allowing thepayload104 to be intermixed with the liquid material in thecontainer114. Thorough mixing may be accomplished by agitating the bottle.
• Various exemplary embodiments of the closure including a dissolvable interface may be used according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Any conventional closure may be modified to accept a payload and to accept a dissolvable interface to secure the payload in the closure, according to exemplary embodiments.
I. Exemplary Closures
• Today, there are literally hundreds of companies in the U.S. and many more, worldwide, which may manufacture a wide variety of types ofclosures102 & fitments for containers of all shapes and sizes, any of which may be adapted to be used to carry a payload including adissolvable interface106, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 2A,2B,2C,2D, and2E depicts an exemplary embodiment of various exemplary conventional closures, which may be modified as set forth herein according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 2A depicts an exemplary embodiment of an exemplary childresistant closure200 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 2B depicts an exemplary embodiment of an exemplarycontinuous thread closure220 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Discontinuous thread, as well as other well known types of threaded closures may also be used.
• FIG. 2C depicts an exemplary embodiment of anexemplary dispensing closure240 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 2D depicts an exemplary embodiment of an exemplary tamper-evident (T-E) closure with abottom view260 and atop view280, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 2E depicts an exemplary embodiment of various exemplary conventional closures, which may be modified to include a dissolvable interface as set forth herein according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
A. Exemplary Plastic Closures
• There are many hundreds of standard and non-standard sizes, materials and styles ofclosures102, which may be used, according to an exemplary embodiment. Exemplary embodiments may include, e.g., but not limited to, sizes and styles from, e.g., but not limited to, 9 mm vial closures to, e.g., but not limited to, about 120 mm, or larger, wide mouth jar caps, according to exemplary embodiments.
• According to an exemplary embodiment, plastic closures may be used in e.g., but not limited to, food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, chemical, and/or other specialty markets, etc. Exemplary plastic closures may include, in an exemplary embodiment, continuous thread, friction fit and/or lug finish caps.
Exemplary Pumps, Sprayers, Misters and Atomizers
• Exemplary closures and dispensers may include, in an exemplary embodiment, sprayers, pumps, lotion pumps, fragrance sprayers, cologne sprayers, scent sprayers, cream pumps, snap top caps, disc top caps, plastic caps, metal caps, sifter caps, essential oil sprayers, jar caps, bottle caps, and/or jelly jar caps, etc.
• Exemplary sprayers may include, in an exemplary embodiment, a black, white, or other color fine mist sprayer, trigger sprayers, etc.
• Exemplary drum pumps may include, in an exemplary embodiment, zinc, or other-plated pumps; plastic pumps including, e.g., but not limited to, white, silver or any other colored plastic pumps, etc.
• Exemplary lotion pumps may include, in an exemplary embodiment, white, black, or any other color style lotion pumps, etc.
• Exemplary treatment pumps may include, in an exemplary embodiment, black, white, natural, or any other color treatment pumps, including capped treatment pumps, etc.
• Exemplary industrial pumps may include, in an exemplary embodiment, gallon pumps, lotion pumps, etc.
• Exemplary plastic faucets may include, in an exemplary embodiment, white, natural, and any other color, faucets, gold faucets, natural and red, and any other color, or color combination faucets.
• Threaded Caps
• Threaded closures may include, in an exemplary embodiment, sprayers, pumps, lotion pumps, fragrance sprayers, cologne sprayers, scent sprayers, cream pumps, snap top caps, disc top caps, plastic caps, metal caps, sifter caps, brush caps, essential oil sprayers, jar caps, bottle caps, jelly jars, closures, sprayers, pumps and/or droppers, etc.
• According to various exemplary embodiments, exemplary plastic caps may include, e.g., but not limited to, plastic dome caps including, e.g., but not limited to, phenolic dome lined caps, PP dome lined caps, smooth dome lined caps, clear, transparent, opaque and/or colored smooth dome lined caps; clear styrene dome caps; plastic smooth caps, including, e.g., but not limited to, PS-22 lined caps, smooth unlined caps, smooth unlined caps 43/485, colored smooth lined and/or unlined caps, plastic sifters, and/or cosmetic jar disc liners; plastic ribbed caps including, e.g., but not limited to, colored ribbed caps, foil lined caps, ribbed Teflon lined caps, ribbed lined caps, and/or ribbed unlined caps; phenolic caps including, e.g., but not limited to, phenolic cone lined caps, phenolic PV lined caps, phenolic brush caps, clear, transparent, opaque and/or colored plastic brush caps, and/or silver, gold, chrome and/or any other shiny colored phenolic caps; tamper-evident caps including, e.g., but not limited to, orifice reducer caps, tamper banded caps, universal picture caps, child resistant, push down and turn caps; ball caps, smooth ball caps, clear, transparent, opaque and/or colored colored ball caps, etc.
• Plastic Dispensing Caps
• Exemplary plastic dispensing caps may include disc top caps, spout caps, glass droppers, and/or twist top caps, baby bottle nipples, sports bottle lift to open caps, etc.
• Exemplary caps may include, in an exemplary embodiment, plastic sifter caps; white or other color plastic sifter caps; smooth disc top caps, silver, white, black, natural and/or any other color smooth disc top caps; twist top caps similar to those used to dispense glue and/or sports beverages, including, e.g., but not limited to, natural cap/natural base twist top caps, red/red twist top caps, black/natural twist top caps, red/white, and any other color, or color combination twist top caps; pull top caps similar to those used on some sports beverages including any color and/or color combination pull top caps, with or without tip or outer caps; tamper evident (T-E) caps which may include, e.g., but not limited to, black, white, and/or any other color, tamper evident caps, with or without orifice reducers; orifice reducers generally, which may include, e.g., but not limited to, 15 mm, or any other size, natural, or any other color, LDPE orifice reducers; plastic snap top caps which may include, in an exemplary embodiment, white or other colored ribbed snap top caps similar to those often used on toothpaste containers, white or other colored snap top caps; flip spout caps, which may include, in an exemplary embodiment, white, black, or any other color, spout top caps as often used to dispense lotions; glass, plastic and/or rubber droppers, which may include, in an exemplary embodiment, white, black, white bulb, black bulb, white bulb/gold glass, and any other combination of colors, rubber, and/or plastic droppers; red and/or other colored tip spout caps, which may include, in an exemplary embodiment, Yorker Long Tip Cap Red Tip with, e.g., but not limited to, 0.030 Hole, and/or Yorker Long Tip Cap Red Tip with no hole, etc.
• Exemplary closures102, according to an exemplary embodiment may be sold in combination withcontainers114, in small kits with contains, or in wholesale bulk cases, with or withoutcontainers114, according to exemplary embodiments.
• FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary embodiment of an exemplary water bottle equipped with an exemplary enclosure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Upon shaking the bottle, the liquid comes in contact with theinterface106, which may dissolve, allowing the payload to intermix with the liquid in the bottle. Advantageously, in an exemplary embodiment, since the interface dissolves upon contact with the liquid, nothing is left to physically hinder the delivery of the mixture to the liquid, and vice versa, the liquid to the mixture. Also, in an exemplary embodiment, no residual matter may be left over that could compromise integrity and/or quality of the final mixed product.
• Thus, upon the liquid coming into contact with the liquidsoluble interface106, the membrane/interface dissolves. With the separatinginterface106 gone, the payload may partially and/or fully mix with the liquid via gravitational pull, and/or agitation of the container.
• In one exemplary embodiment, thepayload104 may be carbon dioxide activated material, or the like.
• Containers
• Exemplary closures102, according to an exemplary embodiment may be used withcontainers114 such as, e.g., but not limited to, plastic containers or bottles, glass containers or bottles, metal containers, bottles, or cans, and/or any other container of any other size, of any other material, of any shape, height, depth, etc.
• Exemplary plastic containers may include, in an exemplary embodiment, several styles of plastic containers including, e.g., but not limited to, plastic bottles, jars, vials and/or pails, etc.
• Exemplary plastic bottles may include, in an exemplary embodiment, any color including, but not limited to, amber, blue, natural, clear, green, white, etc.
• Exemplary plastic bottles may include, in an exemplary embodiment, bottles which may include any material, including, but not limited to, PET, HDPE, PVC, and/or LDPE.
• Exemplary Plastic bottles may include, in an exemplary embodiment, bottles of any shape, which may include, Boston, cosmo, cylinder, oval, round, round pharm, round, rectangular top, square top, water bottle shaped, soda bottle shaped, etc.
• Exemplary plastic jars may include, in an exemplary embodiment, jars of any color, including combinations, including, but not limited to amber, blue, clear, frosted, white, black, natural, including, but not limited to,
• Exemplary plastic tubes and/or vials may include, in an exemplary embodiment, tubes and/or vials of any color, including combinations, including, but not limited to clear, natural, white, and/or any other color plastic tubes and/or vials, any sizes, including, but not limited to, lip balm supplies, and other cosmetic containers, etc.
• Exemplary plastic containers may include pails, and/or drums, such as, e.g., but not limited to, paint pails, kegs, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the container may include a plastic pail, keg or drum which is adapted to receive a closure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• Exemplary glass containers may include glass bottles, jars and/or vials, etc. Exemplary glass, (or plastic, and/or metal containers) which may be used with closures according to the present invention include, e.g., but not limited to, glass bottles, jars, and/or vials, which may be acquired, e.g., but not limited to, in small kits with closures and/or caps and/or may be sold in, e.g., but not limited to, wholesale BULK cases. Exemplary glass and/or or plastic bottles may include clear, transparent, opaque, semi-transparent and/or colored glass, including, e.g., but not limited to, blue, amber, frosted, clear, green, bottles, jars, etc., in various shapes.
• FIG. 3A depicts an exemplary diagram300 illustrating an exemplary embodiment of twoexemplary containers114 equipped withexemplary closures102 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention having a dissolvable interface106 (not shown) for securing a payload104 (not shown) in theclosure102.
B. Exemplary Metal Closures
• Many food manufacturers and cosmetic companies may use metal type closures, which may be adapted according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Chemical manufacturers may also use metal closures for their chemical stability, resistance and durability, which may be adapted according to an exemplary embodiment of the present. Various standard, and/or non-standard sizes & styles may be used, including printed lug finish caps to plain friction fit jar lids, according to exemplary embodiments. Exemplary metal closures may include metal covers for metal containers including containers, tins, and/or cans. Exemplary metal containers may include, e.g., but not limited to, flat metal tins, deep dish metal tins, clear top tins, hinge top tins, F style cans, round paint style cans, and gold and/or other colored metal tins with slip covers, etc.
• Exemplary metal closures may include threaded caps. Exemplary metal caps may include, in an exemplary embodiment, caps in any of various colors including, e.g., but not limited to, gold, black, silver, white and any other color.
• Exemplary Silver Metal Closures
• Exemplary silver closures and/or metal closures may include silver caps, which may include, e.g., but not limited to, aluminum caps with a polyethylene (PE) Liner, silver metal lug caps, grated top silver caps, steel with a PV Liner, etc.
• Exemplary Gold Metal Closures
• Exemplary gold closures and/or metal closures may include gold metal caps, which may include, e.g., but not limited to, gold metal Plastisol lined lug caps, gold metal Plastisol lined caps, gold metal caps with a red or other colored dome, etc.
• Exemplary Black Metal Closures
• Exemplary black closures and/or metal closures may include black metal caps, which may include, e.g., but not limited to, black metal foil lined caps, black metal pulp/poly lined caps, etc.
• Exemplary White Metal Closures
• Exemplary white, natural, or other colored closures and/or metal closures may include white or other colored metal caps, which may include, e.g., but not limited to, white metal foil lined caps, white Metal Plastisol Lined Caps, white Metal Pulp/Poly Lined Caps.
• Exemplary Metal Containers
• Exemplary metal containers114 may include any of a variety ofclosures102, including, but not limited to, metal containers, “tins”, and/or cans, which may be adapted according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, and the containers may include, in an exemplary embodiment, metal tins, square, rectangular, round, or other shaped metal tins; which may receive in an exemplary embodiment, clear tops; tins w/covers; metal tins w/clear view tops; footed metal candle tins; deep dish metal tins with slip on covers; flat metal tins with slip covers; metal tins square, round, rectangular, oval, and elliptical; gold, silver or other colored metal tins; holiday tins; decorative closures, and/or decorative tins.
• Exemplary Twist Top Metal Tins
• Exemplary twist top metal tins may include, e.g., but not limited to, screw top tins, and/or twist top metal tins, etc.
• Exemplary Slide Cover Metal Tins
• Exemplary slide top metal tins may include, e.g., but not limited to, slide cover metal tins, and/or slide top metal tins, etc.
• Exemplary Hinge Top Metal Tins
• Exemplary metal tins may include hinge top metal tins, which may include, e.g., but not limited to, hinge top metal tins, etc.
• Exemplary Industrial Metal Cans
• Exemplary metal tins may include hinge top metal tins, which may include, e.g., but not limited to, oblong cans with cap and/or seal, round paint cans, etc.
C. Exemplary Specialty Closures
• There are various well-known specialty type closures used widely in the packaging industry. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the technology of the present invention may be combined with any of various existing enclosure technologies. In an exemplary embodiment, there are millions of types of well-known dispensing caps such as, e.g., but not limited to, flip top, disc top, squeeze top, dispensing closures, pumps, sprayers, misters, and/or atomizers, etc. Many of these closures may further include, in exemplary embodiments, tamper evident, and/or child resistant closures, as well as, leak avoiding and/or sealing technologies, for any and all packaging closure applications.
D. Exemplary Child-Resistant Closures
• Child-resistant (CR) packaging, and were among the first to introduce effective CR closure systems. Our closures protect children from dangerous substances while being easy for adults to use. two-piece, push and turn child-resistant closures.
E. Exemplary Continuous Thread Closures
• These one-piece screw closures come in heavy, standard and light formats so you can select the one that matches your requirements. One-piece closures for many applications including specialised needs for chemical, impact and leak resistance.
F. Exemplary Dispensing Closures
• Dispensing closures are simply and efficiently designed to keep material costs minimal and expense per unit low. The range includes one- and two-piece closures for liquids and gels, push-pull closures for water bottles and closures for squeezable food bottles. Completely flush two-piece, continuous thread, hinged dispensary closures. Used in all markets.
G. Exemplary Tamper-Indicating Closures
• According to an exemplary embodiment, tamper-indicating closures may provide a visual assurance of product integrity. Modified buttress threads may be combined with a folding bead linerless seal and/or may be lined with industry standard liners, according to several exemplary embodiments.
H. Exemplary Alternative Closure Embodiments
• According to other exemplary embodiments of the present invention, various alternative embodiments may be included, as illustrated, e.g., but not limited to, as shown inFIGS. 3B and 3C, and4B,4B and4D.
• FIG. 3B depicts an exploded view andFIG. 3C depicts an enclosed view of another exemplary embodiment of anexemplary container114 equipped with an alternative embodiment of a two-part closure102a,102bset forth and described further below with reference toFIGS. 4A-4D, according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention.Exemplary closure102b,in an exemplary embodiment, is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,109, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, and may be modified according to an exemplary embodiment, to include a dissolvable interface106 (seeFIGS. 4A-D). Theclosure102bmay be inserted between aconventional bottle114 and aconventional closure102a.
• FIG. 4A depicts an exemplary cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of an exemplary two-part closure including aclosure102aand aclosure102binserted betweenclosure102aand acontainer114, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. According to an exemplary embodiment,closure102bmay have a circularcylindrical sidewall412. Anexemplary sidewall412 may include aninner wall414, and anouter wall416, that may be spaced radially from one another, forming an exemplary, but not required,annular cavity418, therebetween, that may be coaxial with axis A. The inwardly facingsurface424 ofinner wall414 may define a circular cylindrical chamber20 within theclosure102b.The outwardly facingsurface426 ofouter wall416 may be a circular cylinder in an exemplary embodiment, but may be any other shape, such as a decorative shape, such as an animal, a hose, etc. Alternatively, or additionally, outwardly facingsurface426 may be imprinted with indicia such as, e.g., but not limited to, imprinting, or otherwise applying coloration or shading, may include relief or protrusions, in an exemplary embodiment (not shown). Anexemplary collar422 may be a cylindrical structure extending axially downwardly (in the orientation shown inFIG. 1) from aweb428 that may extend radially inwardly frominner wall414. Whenclosure102bis attached to acontainer114, the spout ofcontainer114 may be inserted into the receivingend413 ofclosure102band may be interposed betweeninner wall414 andcollar422 ofclosure102b.The inwardly extending, helical threads on exemplaryinner wall414 may engage the outwardly extending, helical threads on the radially outwardly facing surface of the spout (seeFIG. 3B). In this configuration,closure102bmay be rigidly mounted to the spout of the bottle withcollar422 seated against the radially inwardly facing surface of the spout to prevent liquid from entering the space between the collar22 and theinner wall414. Thecollar422 thereby may insure that any liquid in the bottle can only pass thorugh the region of thechamber420 extending throughcollar422 and above (in the orientation ofFIG. 4A).Closure102bmay have aspout436 in one exemplary embodiment (or may be closed as shown and described further below with reference toFIGS. 4C and 4D), with an exemplary sidewall438 having a preferably circular cylindrical passage therethrough. On exemplary radially outwardly facing surface of the spout36, there are conventional helical threads for engaging a conventionalwater bottle closure102a,102, or those shown inFIG. 2E, or the like. Anexemplary cavity418 in theclosure sidewall412 may be defined by an annular gap between the radially outwardly facing surface of theinner wall414, the radially inwardly facing surface of theouter wall416, theradial web428, an the radial web432, both of which may be part of theinner wall414. Thecavity418 may extend, in an exemplary embodiment, circumferentially and contiguously aroundclosure102b.
• Closure102bmay be adapted to receive in a cavity apayload104.Payload104, which may be of any shape, is shown in an exemplary embodiment having an exemplary annular disk shape having an inner wall431, and may be placed in the exemplary cavity as formed by an inner wall ofportion436.Closure102bmay include two removable foil covers112 one for each off the top and bottom openings of theclosure102b,to prevent moisture from reaching the payload, and to prevent tampering with the payload.
• An exemplary dissolvable interface106 (shown, in one exemplary having a diameter approximately comparable to the diameter ofinner wall422, inFIG. 4A). Theinterface106 may be held in place byoptional fastening mechanisms110.Exemplary interface106 may be substantially the diameter ofinnerwall422, in one exemplary embodiment, or may be the diameter of thecavity holding payload104, as shown, e.g., but not limited to, inFIG. 4D. One or moreoptional fastening mechanisms110 may be included, such as, e.g., but not limited, theexemplary fastener110 shown inFIG. 4C. In another exemplary embodiment,interface106 may be secured by one or more of various exemplary fastening mechanisms440-451, which may be coupled to an inner wall ofclosure102b,in an exemplary embodiment inner wall416 (orinner wall422, not shown), as illustrated inFIG. 4B, according to various exemplary but non-limiting embodiments, which may be used to securedissolvable interface416. According to one exemplary embodiment,payload104 and/ordissolvable interface416 may be inserted into the cavity created withinwall416 ofclosure102b,prior to insertion ofportion412 intoclosure102b.Portion412, in an exemplary embodiment, may snap into correspondence withportion416.
• FIG. 4B depicts an exemplary bottom cutaway cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of theclosure102bof exemplary two-part closure102 depicted inFIG. 3C, includingfastening mechanisms441,443,444,445,446,447,448,449,450,451 for securing a dissolvable interface106 (not shown) (which in an exemplary embodiment may be of similar diameter to the cavity holdingexemplary payload104, seeFIG. 4D, for example). Thefastening mechanisms110,440-451 may be appendages extending inwardly fromwall416. In another exemplary embodiment, instead of being appendages,440-451 may instead represent passageways through which liquid may flow. Thus, according to an exemplary embodiment, some of elements440-451 may be convex fastening mechanisms extending inwardly into the cavity, and others of these elements may be concave passageways carved inwardly into the inner wall ofclosure102b,or any combination thereof, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention. In one exemplary embodiment,440-451 may act asfastening mechanisms110. In another exemplary embodiment,440-451 may serve other, or additional functions, such as, e.g., but not limited to, a fluid passageway, or any combination of appendages, and/or passageways.
• FIG. 4C depicts an exemplary embodiment of aclosure102 including adissolvable interface106 according to an exemplary embodiment. According to one exemplary embodiment, one ormore fastening mechanisms110 may serve to secure in place theinterface106. In an exemplary embodiment,fastener110 may allow easy one-directional insertion, but may snap so as to prevent release ofinterface106.Fastener110 may be an inner ring, in one embodiment.Fastener110 may include several appendages, similar to fasteners440-451, shown inFIG. 4B.Dissolvable interface106 may be further secured, or alternatively secured, in one exemplary embodiment, by o-ring or other shaped securingmechanisms110a,110b,etc.
• FIG. 4D depicts an exemplary embodiment of aclosure102 including adissolvable interface106 according to an exemplary embodiment. According to one exemplary embodiment, one ormore fastening mechanisms110 may serve to secure in place theinterface106. In an exemplary embodiment, fastener(s)110a,110b,may serve to holdinterface106 in place. In an exemplary embodiment,fastener110, may be an appendages (such as elements440-451) which may be coupled to an inner wall of thecavity holding payload104, as shown inFIG. 4B.Fasteners110 may allow easy one-directional insertion, but may snap back resiliently so as to prevent release ofinterface106.Fastener110 may be an inner ring, in one exemplary embodiment.Fastener110 may include several appendages, similar to fasteners440-451, shown inFIG. 4B.Dissolvable interface106 may be further secured, or alternatively secured, in one exemplary embodiment, by one or more o-ring(s) or other shaped securingmechanisms110a,110b,etc.
II. Exemplary Closure Manufacturing Technologies
• A. Exemplary Injection Molding
• Injection Molding may include a method of forming objects from granular and/or powdered plastics. An exemplary injection molding method may be used to form objects from granular and/or powdered plastics, and may most often use plastics of a thermoplastic type. The material may be fed from a hopper to a heated chamber in which it may be softened, after which a ram and/or a screw may force the material into a mold.
• B. Exemplary Bi-Injection Molding
• Bi-injection molding may include a method by which two materials may be injected into the same cavity within one cycle. With an exemplary bi-injection process, two materials may be injected into the same cavity within one cycle.
• C. Exemplary Injection Blow Molding
• Injection blow molding may include injecting a polymer onto a core pin. First, the polymer may be injection molded onto the core pin, then the core pin may be rotated to a blow molding station to be inflated and cooled.
III. Exemplary Closure Liners
• Before using any liner product, it is critical that users determine the suitability and acceptability for your package through appropriate testing. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, various well known liners may be used in enclosures.
• Which closure liner to use, if any, may vary depending on various design choices, including, e.g., but not limited to, container type, desired seal, and/or backing materials, etc.
• A. Exemplary Container Types
• Exemplary container types may include, in an exemplary embodiment, Polyethylene or polyethene (PE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and/or another plastic(such as, e.g., but not limited to, BAREX®), and/or glass, and/or any other material including, e.g., plastic, metal, glass, and/or any other material, etc.
• B. Exemplary Seal Types
• Exemplary seal types may include, in an exemplary embodiment, welded seal, easy entry, clean peel, tamper indicating, and/or tab function, etc.
• C. Exemplary Backing Materials
• Exemplary seal types may include, in an exemplary embodiment, pulp, OLEFIN foam, barrier reseal, None (for dispensers, for example),
IV. Exemplary Closure Coloring
• According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, exemplary closures may be transparent, opaque, semi-transparent, and/or or colored. Extensive research studies consumer preferences relating to color of enclosures. Milliken Chemical of Spartanburg S.C., U.S.A., has conducted extensive research on the topic of closure packaging for soft drinks. The soft drink market is fiercely competitive and packaging is a key demand generator. Conventionally, labeling and bottle shape have been the components used to catch the eye of a consumer. Until recently, the closure has served as dead space with white being the consistent color. Through the use of colorants beverage caps and closures can become an intrinsic and valuable part of packaging aesthetics by replicating beverage color or brand in transparent polypropylene (PP) to enhance consumer appeal and brand image. The concept of transparent, colored PP closures is not new. The use use of colored PP closures has been used in a number of areas including personal care products, where clarified PP gives a highly attractive appearance associated with more expensive materials, while at the same time delivering simplified processing as well as cost savings achievable with PP. Bottled beverages with a transparent cap are much more likely to be chosen in a buying situation than one with an opaque cap according to research. When asked to pick their beverage of choice from a cooler stocked with bottled beverages divided equally between opaque and transparent caps, the following was learned, 62% of all consumers chose a beverage with a transparent cap; 72% of consumers less than 18 years of age selected the transparent cap. When specifically asked which cap is more attractive, 71% chose transparent. Among those who chose the transparent cap, the most common reason for doing so was that they found the cap appealing (33%), other reasons included: Cap stands out more (7%); Cap looks different (7%); Looks like “specialty offer” or contest cap (7%).
• While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should instead be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims (20)

1. An apparatus comprising:

a closure having a cavity to receive a payload; and

an interface configured to secure the payload in said cavity of said closure

wherein said interface is adapted to secure the payload in said closure when affixing said closure to a container, and

wherein said interface comprises a material that changes state.

2. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein said closure is adapted to be secured to the container.

3. The apparatus ofclaim 2, wherein said closure comprises at least one of:

a snap-on capability allowing said closure to snap to the container;

an opening at the top and threading to allow coupling to another closure as part of a two-part closure; and/or

a thread adapted to engage with threads on the container.

4. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein said interface comprises a dissolvable interface.

5. The apparatus ofclaim 4, wherein said dissolvable interface comprises a liquid dissolvable interface.

6. The apparatus ofclaim 4, wherein said liquid dissolvable interface comprises a water-based liquid dissolvable interface.

7. The apparatus ofclaim 6, wherein said interface comprises a Pullulan material.

8. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein said interface comprises an edible interface.

9. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein said interface comprises a Pullulan material.

10. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising at least one of:

a seal;

a metal seal;

a foil seal;

an aluminum foil seal;

a moisture seal;

a seal at an opening of the closure;

a seal internal to the opening of the closure;

a seal internal to the opening of the closure at least one of above and/or below a threading of the closure; and/or

a peel away seal.

11. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising at least one of:

a fastening mechanism.

12. The apparatus ofclaim 11, wherein said fastening mechanism comprises at least one O-ring.

13. The apparatus ofclaim 11, wherein said fastening mechanism comprises at least one tongue coupled to an interior of the closure.

14. The apparatus ofclaim 13, wherein said closure is cylindrical in shape and said fastening mechanism comprises at least two O-rings coupled to said interface, affixing said interface within the closure against said at least one tongue.

15. The apparatus ofclaim 13, wherein said at least one tongue comprises at least one annular ring coupled to an internal edge of said closure.

16. The apparatus ofclaim 13, wherein said tongue comprises a one-directional member, allowing insertion of said interface, but preventing removal.

17. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising a prepackaged payload, wherein said prepackaged payload comprises at least one of:

crystalline material,

powdered material,

granular,

finely ground material,

a beverage mix comprising at least one of:

a dry milk material,

a tea mix,

a coffee mix,

a flavored beverage mix,

a baby formula,

a dry lemonade,

a flavor,

a juice mix,

a powder drink mix,

an electrolyte drink mix,

an energy drink mix,

a protein drink mix,

a breakfast drink mix, and/or

a sweetened beverage mix;

a supplement comprising at least one of:

a protein supplement,

a flavoring,

a non-sugar sweetener,

a diabetic product,

a breakfast drink mix,

a sweetener,

a nutrient,

an electrolyte drink,

an energy drink,

a dietary supplement, and/or

a vitamin supplement;

a dehydrated food comprising at least one of:

a dehydrated liquid remnant,

dehydrated alcohol,

a pancake mix,

a cake mix,

a pudding mix,

a gelatin mix, and/or

a soup mix;

a fertilizer;

an industrial chemical;

a paint mixture;

a coloring;

a non-edible liquid dissolvable mixture; and/or

a dissolvable medicine comprising at least one of:

a pharmaceutical,

an injestible,

an antibiotic,

a prescription drug,

an over the counter drug, and/or

a laxative.

18. The apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein said closure comprises at least one of:

a child resistant closure;

a threaded closure;

a continuously threaded closure;

a dispensing closure comprising at least one of:

a pump closure,

a dropper closure,

a brush based closure,

a lift top closure,

a threaded top closure,

a mister closure, and/or

a lotion dispensing closure;

a tamper-evident (T-E) closure;

a sports bottle closure;

a clear closure;

a colored closure;

a ribbed closure;

a plastic closure;

a metal closure;

a lid;

a cap;

a cover;

a tip;

a decorative closure;

a holiday closure;

a resealable closure;

a nipple; and/or

a protective cover covered closure.

19. The apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein said closure is sold as part of a kit including a container.

20. The apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein said closure is sold as part of a kit comprising a plurality of said closures, wherein each of said plurality of closures comprise prepackaged payloads.

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