US20170073115A1 - Pouring Spout and Package Including the Same - Google Patents

Abstract

A spout fitment (130) for dispensing a scented household liquid (200) is disclosed that includes a pouring spout having a topographical feature (175D) that may increase the exposed surface area of a liquid and/or alter the fluid dynamics of the scented household liquid (200) during a product dispensing event. The pouring spout may comprise a floor surface (144), a first side surface (145), and a second side surface (142) that collectively define a flow channel for dispensing the liquid, the flow channel extending along a longitudinal axis from a spout inlet to a spout outlet (150); and at least one of the floor surface, the first side surface, and the second side surface comprising a topographical feature (175D) selected from at least one of a plurality of depressions and a plurality of protuberances (175D).

Description

BACKGROUND
• Containers for home care liquids, such as laundry detergents and fabric softeners, having closure assemblies that include integrated pouring spouts are known. In such existing containers, the integrated pouring spouts channel the flow of the home care liquid during into a concentrated stream of the home care liquid during dispensing. As a result, the exposed surface area of the home care liquid in the pouring spout is minimized during a product dispensing event. Existing container are, thus, not optimal for dispensing scented household liquids where it may be desirable to release a perceptible scent (or fragrance) during the dispensing.
BRIEF SUMMARY
• The present invention is directed to a packaged product comprising a container and a scented household liquid. The container includes an integrated pouring spout that is configured to increase the exposed surface area of a scented household liquid in the pouring spout during a product dispensing event, thereby increasing the amount of scent (or fragrance) released from the scented household liquid during the product dispensing event. In one aspect, the pouring spout may have a flared section in which the transverse width of the flow channel increases moving toward the spout outlet, thereby allowing the flow of the scented household liquid to transversely spread out to increase the exposed surface area. In another aspect, the pouring spout is designed such that at least one of the floor surface and side surfaces that define the flow channel have a topographical feature that may increase the exposed surface area of a liquid in the pouring spout and/or alter the fluid dynamics of the liquid in the pouring spout during dispensing.
• In one embodiment, the invention can be a packaged product comprising: a container body forming a cavity containing a scented household liquid, the container body comprising a neck portion; a spout fitment coupled to the neck portion of the container body, the spout fitment comprising a pouring spout; the pouring spout comprising a flow channel for dispensing the scented household liquid from the cavity, the flow channel extending along a longitudinal axis from a spout inlet to a spout outlet at a distal end of the pouring spout; the flow channel comprising a flared section having a transverse width that increases with longitudinal distance from the spout inlet; and a cap detachably coupled to the container body to cover the pouring spout and seal the cavity.
• In another embodiment, the invention can be a spout fitment for dispensing a liquid, the spout fitment comprising: a pouring spout, the pouring spout comprising a floor surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface that collectively define a flow channel for dispensing the liquid, the flow channel extending along a longitudinal axis from a spout inlet to a spout outlet; and at least one of the floor surface, the first side surface, and the second side surface comprising a topographical feature selected from at least one of a plurality of depressions and a plurality of protuberances.
• In yet another embodiment, the invention can be a packaged product comprising: a container body forming a cavity containing the liquid, the container body comprising a neck portion; a spout fitment coupled to the neck portion of the container body, the spout fitment comprising: a pouring spout, the pouring spout comprising a floor surface, a first side surface extending upward from the floor surface, and a second side surface extending upward from the floor surface; the floor surface, the first side surface, and the second side surface collectively defining a flow channel for dispensing the scented household liquid, the flow channel extending along a longitudinal axis from a spout inlet to a spout outlet; and at least one of the floor surface, the first side surface, and the second side surface comprising a topographical feature selected from at least one of a plurality of depressions and a plurality of protuberances.
• Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:
• FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional schematic of a packaged product in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a top portion of the packaged product ofFIG. 1, wherein the cap of the container has been removed;
• FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a top portion of the packaged product ofFIG. 1, wherein the cap of the container has been removed and a scented liquid is being dispensed therefrom;
• FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the spout fitment of the container of the packaged product ofFIG. 1;
• FIG. 4 is a front view of the spout fitment ofFIG. 3;
• FIG. 5 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment ofFIG. 3;
• FIG. 6 is a top view of a first alternate geometry of a pouring spout that can be incorporated into the spout fitment of the container of the packaged product ofFIG. 1 in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 7 is a top view of a second alternate geometry of a pouring spout that can be incorporated into the spout fitment of the container of the packaged product ofFIG. 1 in accordance with a yet further embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 8 is a top view of a third alternate geometry of a pouring spout that can be incorporated into the spout fitment of the container of the packaged product ofFIG. 1 in accordance with a still further embodiment of the present invention;
• FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a first alternate embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of the packaged product ofFIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of transversely extending ridges;
• FIG. 9A is a perspective view of the first alternate embodiment of the spout fitment ofFIG. 9, wherein a scented household liquid is being dispensed therefrom;
• FIG. 10 is a front view of the spout fitment ofFIG. 9;
• FIG. 11 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment ofFIG. 9;
• FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a second alternate embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of the packaged product ofFIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of longitudinally extending ridges;
• FIG. 13 is a front view of the spout fitment ofFIG. 12;
• FIG. 14 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment ofFIG. 12;
• FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a third alternate embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of the packaged product ofFIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of longitudinally extending ridges and a plurality of transversely extending ridges;
• FIG. 16 is a front view of the spout fitment ofFIG. 15;
• FIG. 17 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment ofFIG. 15;
• FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a fourth alternate embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of the packaged product ofFIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of transversely extending grooves;
• FIG. 19 is a front view of the spout fitment ofFIG. 18;
• FIG. 20 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment ofFIG. 18;
• FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a fourth alternate embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of the packaged product ofFIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves;
• FIG. 22 is a front view of the spout fitment ofFIG. 21;
• FIG. 23 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment ofFIG. 21;
• FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a fifth alternate embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of the packaged product ofFIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves and a plurality of transversely extending ridges;
• FIG. 25 is a front view of the spout fitment ofFIG. 24;
• FIG. 26 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment ofFIG. 24;
• FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a sixth alternate embodiment of a spout fitment that can be incorporated into the container of the packaged product ofFIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, wherein the pouring spout includes a plurality of longitudinally extending ridges and a plurality of transversely extending grooves;
• FIG. 28 is a front view of the spout fitment ofFIG. 27; and
• FIG. 29 is a top view of the pouring spout of the spout fitment ofFIG. 27.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.
• As used throughout, ranges are used as shorthand for describing each and every value that is within the range. Any value within the range can be selected as the terminus of the range. In addition, all references cited herein are hereby incorporated by referenced in their entireties. In the event of a conflict in a definition in the present disclosure and that of a cited reference, the present disclosure controls.
• The description of illustrative embodiments according to principles of the present invention is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the description of embodiments of the invention disclosed herein, any reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top” and “bottom” as well as derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description only and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation unless explicitly indicated as such. Terms such as “attached,” “affixed,” “connected,” “coupled,” “interconnected,” and similar refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise. Moreover, the features and benefits of the invention are illustrated by reference to the exemplified embodiments. Accordingly, the invention expressly should not be limited to such exemplary embodiments illustrating some possible non-limiting combination of features that may exist alone or in other combinations of features; the scope of the invention being defined by the claims appended hereto.
• Referring first toFIG. 1, a packaged product1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The packaged product1000 generally comprises acontainer100 and a liquid, which in the exemplified embodiment is a scentedhousehold liquid200. Thecontainer100 forms a sealed enclosure for thescented household liquid200 that is suitable for transport, storage, and handling of thescented household liquid200. As discussed in greater detail below, thecontainer100 is also configured to dispense thescented household liquid200 in a controlled manner.
• Thescented household liquid200, in certain embodiments, may be a laundry care liquid, a cleaning liquid, and an oral care liquid. Examples of suitable laundry care liquids include, without limitation, laundry detergents, stain removers, and fabric softeners. Examples of cleaning liquids include, without limitation, dish soaps, dishwashing detergents, liquid soaps, body wash and shower gels. Examples of suitable oral care liquids include, without limitation, mouthwash, oral rinsing fluids, and oral medicaments. In other embodiments, liquids other than a scented household liquid may be used with thecontainer100.
• Thecontainer100 generally comprises acontainer body110, acap120, and aspout fitment130. Thecontainer body110 comprises amain body portion111 and aneck portion112. Thecontainer body110, in the exemplified embodiment, is integrally formed as a single component. In certain other embodiments, however, thecontainer body110 may be a multi-component structure. Thecontainer body110 may be formed of a plastic, for example by utilizing a blow molding or injection molding technique. Suitable plastics include, without limitation, polypropylene, polystyrene, and high and low density polyethylene. In other embodiments, thecontainer body110 may be formed of metal, glass, ceramic, treated cellulosic materials, or any other material that is impermeable to thescented household liquid200 being stored therein.
• Themain body portion111 of thecontainer body110 forms acavity113 for containing thescented household liquid200. Theneck portion112 is an annular wall structure that defines acentral opening114 that forms a passageway into thecavity113. Theneck portion112 terminates in an annulartop edge115. As will be described in greater detail below, theneck portion112 provides the structure by which thespout fitment130 andcap120 can be coupled to thecontainer body110.
• In the exemplified embodiment, theouter surface116 of theneck portion112 comprisesthreads117 that facilitate threaded coupling between thecontainer body110 and thecap120. Thecap120 comprises aninner surface121 that comprisesthreads122 that correspond to thethreads117 of theneck portion112 for threaded mating therewith. In other embodiments, thecap120 may be indirectly coupled to thecontainer body110 via the spout fitment130 (or another structure) that is, in turn, directly or indirectly coupled to thecontainer body110. For example, in one such embodiment, thespout fitment130 may comprise a skirt (not illustrated) that circumscribes theouter surface116 of theneck portion112 and that comprises threads on its outer surface for threaded engagement with thethreads122 of thecap120. In another such embodiment, thecap120 may be resized and provided with threads on itsouter surface123 for threaded engagement with threads formed on theinner surface118 of the neck portion and/or on theannular wall131 of thespout fitment130. In still another embodiment, threads may be provided on the outer surface of the innerannular wall125 of the cap10 that engage threads formed on theinner surface118 of the neck portion and/or on theannular wall131 of thespout fitment130.
• Thecontainer body110 further comprises ahandle119. Thehandle119, as exemplified, is defined by a through-hole108 that extends through thecontainer body110. In other embodiments, thehandle119 may be formed as a thinned portion of the container body that may include flanges for gripping. Thehandle119, in the exemplified embodiment, is integrally formed with themain body portion111. In certain other embodiments, thehandle119 may be a separate component that is coupled to themain body portion111. Thehandle119, in the exemplified embodiment, is hollow and comprises ahandle cavity109 that is in fluid communication with thecavity113 containing thescented household liquid200. In other embodiments, thehandle119 may be a solid structure.
• Thecap120 is detachably coupled to thecontainer body100 so as to be capable of repetitive coupling and decoupling as necessary to dispense thescented household liquid200. Thecap120 comprises a cup-shapedbody124 having an open bottom end and a closed top end. When coupled to thecontainer body120, thecap120 covers the pouringspout140 and seals thecavity113, thereby preventing spilling of thescented household liquid200 from thecontainer100.
• In the exemplified embodiment, the cap comprises an innerannular wall125 and an outerannular wall126. The outerannular wall126 circumferentially surrounds the innerannular wall125 in a concentric manner. Thecap120 further comprises acap cavity127, which in the exemplified embodiment is formed by the innerannular wall125. Thecap cavity127, in certain embodiments, may have a predetermined volume that is selected so as to correspond to a predetermined dose of thescented household liquid200. For example, the volume of the cap cavity17 may be selected so that it can accommodate only a single dose of thescented household liquid200. In other embodiments, measurement indicia may be provided on the innerannular wall125 so that precise volume measurements and/or a dose can be made.
• When thecap120 is coupled to thecontainer body110, the innerannular wall125 extends into theneck portion112. The innerannular wall125 also allows thecap120 to be used as an intermediate vessel for thescented household liquid200 during a product dispensing event while at the same time protecting thethreads122 from getting coated by thescented household liquid200, which may cause subsequent issues when recoupled to thecontainer body110.
• When thecap120 is coupled to thecontainer body110, the pouringspout140 is located within thecap cavity127. Thecap cavity127 has an inner diameter D1. The pouringspout140 has a maximum width W1 (seeFIG. 5). In order ensure that thecap cavity127 can accommodate the pouringspout140, the maximum width W1 of the pouringspout140 is less than or equal to the inner diameter D1 of thecap120. In other embodiments, the innerannular wall125 may be omitted and thecap cavity127 may be defined by the outerannular wall126 or some other portion of thecap120.
• Moreover, theneck portion112 of thecontainer body110 has an outer diameter D2. In order to ensure proper fitment of thecap120 to thecontainer body110, the maximum width W1 (FIG. 5) of the pouringspout140 is less than or equal to the outer diameter D2 of theneck portion112.
• Referring now toFIGS. 1-5, thespout fitment130 comprises anannular wall131, anend wall132 extending inward from a bottom of theannular wall131, and a pouringspout140 extending upward from theend wall132 so that anannular gap133 is formed between theannular wall132 and the pouringspout140. Thespout fitment130 is coupled to theneck portion112 of thecontainer body110. Thespout fitment130, in the exemplified embodiment, is inserted into theopening114 defined by theneck portion112 of thecontainer body110 until anupper flange134 of the annular wall abuts thetop edge115 of theneck portion112. Thespout fitment130 is fixed to thecontainer body110, for example, by a tight-fit connection between theannular wall131 of thespout fitment130 and theneck portion112 of thecontainer body110. In other embodiments, thespout fitment130 is fixed to thecontainer body110 via a mechanical interlock between thespout fitment130 and theneck portion112. Suitable mechanical interlocks include, without limitation, a snap-fit, a threaded engagement, a bayonet lock, and combinations thereof. In still other embodiments, thespout fitment130 is fixed to thecontainer body110 by adhering thespout fitment130 to theneck portion112 and/or by utilizing a thermal or sonic weld. When thespout fitment130 is coupled to thecontainer body110, a seal is formed between theannular wall131 of thespout fitment130 and theneck portion112 of thecontainer body110, thereby preventing thescented household liquid200 from escaping through the interface. The seal may be formed, without limitation, by a compressed gasket structure (which may be integrally formed into either thespout fitment130 and/or the neck portion112) or by the adhesive, thermal weld, or sonic weld.
• Theend wall132 comprises adrain aperture135 that forms a passageway between theannular gap133 and thecavity113 of thecontainer body110. Thedrain aperture135 allows anyscented household liquid200 that may gather in theannular gap133 during a product dispensing event to return back to the main reservoir of the scented household liquid220 within thecavity113 after thecontainer100 is returned to the upright position. Thedrain aperture135 may be especially useful in embodiments of thespout fitment130 in which the pouringspout140 has a tubular portion adjacent theend wall132. In certain other embodiments, thedrain aperture135 may be omitted.
• Thespout fitment130, in the exemplified embodiment, is integrally formed as a single component. In certain other embodiments, however, thespout fitment130 may be a multi-component structure. Thespout fitment130 may be formed of a plastic, for example by utilizing an injection molding or machining technique. Suitable plastics include, without limitation, polypropylene, polystyrene, and high and low density polyethylene. In other embodiments, thespout fitment130 may be formed of metal, glass, ceramic, treated cellulosic materials or combinations thereof.
• In the exemplified embodiment, thespout fitment130 is formed as a separate component that is subsequently coupled to thecontainer body110 in a fixed manner. Thespout fitment130 may be coupled to thecontainer body110, for example, through the use of an adhesive, a friction-fit connection, a snap-fit connection, a threaded connection, a thermal weld, a sonic weld, a mechanical interference fit, or combinations thereof. In certain other embodiments, thespout fitment130 may be coupled to110 by way of integrally forming thespout fitment130 and at least a portion of thecontainer body110 as a unitary single component.
• When thespout fitment130 is coupled to thecontainer body110, afirst portion141 of the pouringspout140 is located within theneck portion112 of thecontainer body110 while asecond portion142 of the pouringspout140 protrudes beyond thetop edge115 of theneck portion112 of thecontainer body110. More specifically, thefirst portion141 of the pouringspout140 is located within thecentral opening114 of theneck portion112 of thecontainer body110. The pouringspout140 comprises afloor surface144, afirst side surface145 extending upward from thefloor surface144, and asecond side surface146 extending upward from thefloor surface144. Thefloor surface144, thefirst side surface145, and thesecond side surface146 collectively define aflow channel147 for dispensing thescented household liquid200 from thecavity113. Theflow channel147 extends along a longitudinal axis A-A from aspout inlet148 to aspout outlet149.
• The pouringspout140 extends in a cantilevered manner beyond thetop edge115 of theneck portion112, thereby terminating in a freedistal end150. The pouringspout140, in the exemplified embodiment, is in the form of an open trough. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the pouringspout140 may be in the form of a closed tubular structure. Each of the first and second side surfaces145,146 comprises anupper edge151 and has a height H1 (measured from thefloor surface144 to the upper edge151) that decreases with longitudinal distance from the spout inlet148 (seeFIG. 1). The height H1 also defines the height of theflow channel147. In the exemplified embodiment, theupper edge151 of each of the first and second side surfaces145,146 has a convexly sloped profile when viewed in side profile (seeFIG. 1). In other embodiments, theupper edge151 of each of the first and second side surfaces145,146 may have a stepped profile, a linearly sloped profile, a concave sloped profile, or combinations thereof (when viewed in side profile).
• In the exemplified embodiment, thefloor surface144 is substantially planar and each of the first and second side surfaces145,146 are also substantially planar. In certain other embodiments, thefloor surface144 may be longitudinally and/or transversely contoured. Similarly, each of the first and second side surfaces145,146 may be longitudinally and/or transversely contoured in other embodiments. Each of the first and second side surfaces145,146 extend upward from thefloor surface144 in a substantially perpendicular manner. In other embodiments, each of the first and second side surfaces145,146 may extend upward form thefloor surface144 in an inclined manner, inclining either toward or away from the longitudinal axis A-A. In the exemplified embodiment, the longitudinal axis A-A is linear. In even further embodiments, thefloor surface144 and the first and second side surfaces145,146 may be continuously contoured, such that the pouring spout resembles an axial section of a hollow tube having an oval cross-section.
• In certain other embodiments, theflow channel147 may extend in a non-linear manner such that the longitudinal axis A-A is also non-linear. For example, theflow channel147 may extend in a longitudinally curved manner such that the longitudinal axis A-A would also be longitudinally curved.
• Thespout inlet148 is in fluid communication with theflow channel147 and thecavity113, thereby forming a passageway between theflow channel147 and thecavity113 so thatscented household liquid200 in thecavity113 can be dispensed from thecontainer100 via the poring spout140 (when thecap120 is removed). Thespout outlet149 is located at, and at least partially defined by, thedistal end150 of the pouringspout140.
• The first and second side surfaces145,146 of the pouringspout140 are separated from one another by a distance D (measured transverse to the longitudinal axis A-A), thereby defining the transverse width of the flow channel147 (seeFIG. 5). Thus, the distance D can also be conceptually considered the transverse width of theflow channel147 and may be referred to as such. As mentioned above, each of the first and second side surfaces145,146 have a height H1, thereby defining the height of theflow channel147. Thus, at any given location along the longitudinal axis, theflow channel147 has a height H1 and a width D which, as discussed in greater detail above and below, may vary along the longitudinal length of theflow channel147. In one embodiment, theflow channel147 may have a substantially rectangular transverse cross-section at thespout outlet149 in which the width D of theflow channel147 is greater than the height H1 of theflow channel147. In certain embodiments, at thespout outlet149, the width D of theflow channel147 is at least three times greater than the height H1 of theflow channel147.
• Theflow channel147 comprises a flaredsection152 in which the transverse distance D between the first and second side surfaces145,146 increases with longitudinal distance from thespout inlet148. Thus, the flaredsection152 widens and flattens theflow channel147 along its length. Thus, when thescented household liquid200 flows through the flaredsection152 of theflow channel147, the stream of thescented household liquid200 spreads out between the first and second side surfaces145,146. As a result, the exposed surface area of thescented household liquid200 is increased as thescented household liquid200 flows through the flaredsection152 of theflow channel147, thereby increasing the amount of scent (i.e., fragrance) released during the product dispensing event.
• The flaredsection152 comprises thespout outlet149. In the exemplified embodiment ofFIGS. 1-5, the flaredsection152 extends the entire length of the pouringspout140 and, thus, also comprises thespout inlet148. While the flaredsection152 of theflow channel147 extends from thespout inlet148 to thespout outlet149 in the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-5, in certain other embodiments the flaredsection152 may extend only a portion of the length of theflow channel147. When thespout fitment130 is coupled to thecontainer body110, the flaredsection152 of the pouringspout140 is at least partially located within theneck portion112 of thecontainer body110. In certain other embodiments, such as where the flaredsection152 forms only a portion of theflow channel147, the flaredsection152 may begin above thetop edge115 of theneck portion112 of thecontainer body110.
• With reference toFIG. 6, in one alternate embodiment, the pouringspout140A may be designed such that theflow channel147 further comprises aninlet section153 upstream of the flaredsection152. In this embodiment, theinlet section153 extends from thespout inlet148 to atransition point154. The flaredsection152 extends from thetransition point154 to thespout outlet149. For theinlet section153 of theflow channel147, the transverse distance D between the first and second side surfaces145,146 decreases with longitudinal distance from thespout inlet148, thereby forming a waist portion155 (i.e., a constriction). In other words, theinlet section153 of theflow channel147 has a transverse width D that decreases with distance from thespout inlet148. In other embodiments, theinlet section153 may have a substantially constant width D along its length. When incorporated into thespout fitment130, which in turn is incorporated into thecontainer100 as described above, thescented household liquid200 flows into theinlet section153 via thespout inlet148, and then flows through the flaredsection152 for subsequent dispensing via thespout outlet149. Again, as the household scented liquid200 flows through the flaredsection152 of theflow channel147, the stream of thescented household liquid200 spreads out between the first and second side surfaces145,146, thereby increasing the surface area of thescented household liquid200 that is exposed during the product dispensing event. Moreover, in certain embodiments, the inclusion of a waist portion/constriction155 may result in additional amounts of the surface area of thescented household liquid200 being exposed in the flaredsection152 by ensuring that some of thescented household liquid200 flows along the first and second side surfaces145,146 (discussed in greater detail below).
• Referring now toFIGS. 3-5 concurrently, the transverse distance D between the first and second side surfaces145,146 for the flaredsection152 continually increases along the entirety of the flaredsection152 in a linear manner. As can be seen, each of the portions of the first and second side surfaces145,146 that define the flaredsection152 are linear and diverge from the longitudinal axis A-A with distance from thespout inlet148. In certain other embodiments, the flaredsection152 may be formed by making one or both of the first and second side surfaces145,146 to have a stepped profile (when viewed from above as shown inFIGS. 3-5). In still other embodiments, such as is shown inFIG. 7, a pouringspot140B may be designed so that the portions of each of the first and second side surfaces145,146 that define the flaredsection152 are convexly contoured in the longitudinal direction and diverge from the longitudinal axis A-A with distance from thespout inlet148. In still other embodiments, such as is shown inFIG. 8, a pouringspot140C may be designed so that the portions of each of the first and second side surfaces145,146 that define the flaredsection152 are convexly contoured in the longitudinal direction and diverge from the longitudinal axis A-A with distance from thespout inlet148. It should be noted that the various geometries (e.g., linear, stepped, convex, concave, and combinations thereof) of the flaredsection152 discussed above can be incorporated into the pouring spouts and spout fitments described in relation toFIGS. 1-6 and 9-29.
• Referring now toFIGS. 9-29, various embodiments ofspout fitments130D-J are exemplified in which the pouringspouts140J-D are provided with topographical features that may increase the exposed surface area of thescented household liquid200 and/or alter the fluid dynamics of thescented household liquid200 during the product dispensing event, thereby increasing the amount of scent released. In one embodiment, the topographical feature, which may be in the form of a plurality of depressions and/or a plurality of protuberances, are provided on at least one of thefloor surface144D-J, thefirst side surface145D-J, or thesecond side surface146D-J. In certain embodiments, each of thefloor surface144D-J, thefirst side surface145D-J, and thesecond side surface146D-J of the pouringspouts140D-J may be provided with the desired configuration of the topographical feature(s).
• In the embodiments discussed in greater detail below, the plurality of protuberances are exemplified as ridges while the plurality of depressions are exemplified as grooves. The invention, however, is not so limited in all embodiments. For example, in certain embodiments, the protuberances may be in the form of, without limitation, posts, conical nubs, truncated nubs, and combinations thereof. The depressions may be in the form of, without limitation, dimples, troughs, valleys, and combinations thereof. Moreover, while a few embodiments of thespout fitments130D-J with topographical features are exemplified herein, it is to be understood that a wide variety of orientations and combinations of topographical features are envisioned.
• Each of thespout fitments130D-J can be coupled to thecontainer body110 ofFIGS. 1-2, as discussed above for thespout fitment130, to form a packaged product1000 according to the present invention. Thus, it is to be understood that the above discussion of the spout fitment130 (and its relation and incorporation into thecontainer body110 and the packaged product1000) is applicable to each of thespout fitments130D-J. Therefore, in order to avoid redundancy, only those aspects of thespout fitments130D-J that differ from thespout fitment130 will be described below. To this end, like structures will be identified with like reference numerals, with the exception that alphabetical suffixes “D-J” will be added. It should be noted, however, that while each of the pouringspouts140D-J are exemplified as including a flaredsection152D-J, the inclusion of the topographical features on the pouringspouts140D-J may, in certain embodiments, constitute an aspect of the invention without the existence of a flared section. Thus, in certain embodiments, the pouringspouts140D-J of thespout fitments130D-J may not include a flared section as discussed above forFIG. 1-6.
• Referring now toFIGS. 9-11 concurrently, a first embodiment of aspout fitment130D that includes a pouringspout140D including a topographical feature that may increase the amount of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed. In this embodiment, the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality of protuberances, which are in the form of a plurality of transversely extendingridges175D. The transversely extendingridges175D, in the exemplified embodiment, extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A. In other embodiments, however, the transversely extendingridges175D may extend obliquely to the longitudinal axis A-A.
• The transversely extendingridges175D are longitudinally spaced apart from one another along the pouringspout140D so as to form an undulating surface. While the transversely extendingridges175D are exemplified as having a rectangular cross-section, the transversely extendingridges175D may have other cross-sectional shapes, such as triangular or semi-oval. In one particular embodiment, the transversely extendingridges175D (and the spaces therebetween) may have cross-sectional shapes such that an undulating surface is formed, wherein the undulations take the form of a repetitive pattern of concave valleys and convex peaks. In one such specific embodiment, the undulations may take on a sinusoidal configuration so that the spout resembles a traditional washboard. The transversely extendingridges175D are substantially parallel to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may be arranged in non-parallel arrangements in other embodiments.
• In the exemplified embodiment, the transversely extendingridges175D protrude from and extend continuously across each of thefloor surface144D, thefirst side surface145D, and thesecond side surface146D. Thus, each of the first and second side surfaces145D,146D and thefloor surface144D can be considered to comprises a plurality of transversely extendingridges175D that protrude into theflow channel147D. In other embodiments, the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D may be omitted from the first and second side surfaces145D,146D such that only thefloor surface144D may comprise the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D, and vice versa.
• The transversely extendingridges175D are exemplified in the form of elongated ribs. In other embodiments, the transversely extendingridges175D may be in the form successive steps formed into the pouringspout140D. Additionally, while the transversely extendingridges175D are exemplified as continuous structures, the transversely extendingridges175D may be segmented in other embodiments. In such embodiments, each segment of a transversely extendingridge175D may be considered, and referred to as, a transversely extending ridge. The transversely extendingridges175D are linear in the exemplified embodiment but may be nonlinear in other embodiments, such as curved, either convex and/or concave.
• During a product dispensing event in which thespout fitment130D is incorporated into the packaged product1000, the transversely extendingridges175D may cause waves or other irregularities and/or turbulences in the stream of thescented household product200 flowing through theflow channel147. As a result, an increased amount of scent may be released from thescented household product200 during the product dispensing event.
• Referring now toFIGS. 12-14 concurrently, a second embodiment of aspout fitment130E that includes a pouringspout140E including a topographical feature that may increase the amount of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed. In this embodiment, the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality of protuberances, which are in the form of a plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E. In the exemplified embodiment, each of the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E extend the entire length of the pouringspout140E from thespout inlet148E to thespout outlet149E. In certain embodiments, one or more of the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E may extend less than the entire length of the pouringspout140E. Thelongitudinally extending ridges176E,177E,178E are transversely spaced apart from one another.
• The plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E are located along and protrude from thefloor surface144E of the pouringspout140E into theflow channel147E. The plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E are transversely spaced from another. While the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E are exemplified as having a rectangular cross-section, the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E may have other cross-sectional shapes, such as triangular or semi-oval. In one particular embodiment, plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E (and the spaces therebetween) may have cross-sectional shapes such that an undulating surface is formed, wherein the undulations take the form of a repetitive pattern of concave valleys and convex peaks. In one such specific embodiment, the undulations may take on a sinusoidal configuration.
• The plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E diverge from one another with longitudinal distance from thespout inlet148E. More specifically, the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E diverge from one another along the flaredsection152E of theflow channel147. Thus, the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E may not only assist with creating waves and/or irregularities in the stream of thescented household liquid200 during a product dispensing event, but may also assist with spreading/widening the stream of thescented household liquid200 as it flows through the flaredsection152E, thereby ensuring an increase in the exposed surface area of thescented household liquid200. The plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E may also assist with separating the product flow into isolated streams and preventing surface tension of thescented household liquid200 from causing the product flow to converge.
• In certain embodiments, the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E may be arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal axis A-A so as to intersect each other along the longitudinal axis A-A to form consecutively nesting V-shaped ridges. In other embodiments, however, the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E may extend substantially parallel to one another and/or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A.
• The plurality of longitudinally extendingridges177E are located along and protrude from thefirst side surface145E of the pouringspout140E into theflow channel147E. The plurality of longitudinally extendingridges177E extend substantially parallel to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may extend non-parallel to one another in other embodiments. The plurality of longitudinally extendingridges178E are located along and protrude from thesecond side surface146E of the pouringspout140E into theflow channel147E. The plurality of longitudinally extendingridges178E extend substantially parallel to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may extend non-parallel to one another in other embodiments.
• The plurality of longitudinally extendingridges177E,178E may further assist with increasing the amount of scent released from thescented household liquid200 during a product dispensing event by directing and maintaining a portion of the flow of thescented household liquid200 along the first and second side surfaces145E,146E. As a result, thescented household liquid200 may coat thefloor surface144E, thefirst side surface145E, and thesecond side surface146E during a product dispensing event. The existence of the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges177E,178E along the first and second side surfaces145E,146E may be particularly useful in embodiments in which the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges177E,178E are located along a flaredsection152E of theflow channel147E. In such an embodiment, because the width D of theflow channel147E is narrowed at the entry point of the flaredsection152E (compared to the remainder of the flaredsection152E), the depth of the stream of thescented household product200 will be elevated at the entry point, allowing thescented household product200 to ride up along the first and second side surfaces145E,146E. As thescented household product200 flows down the flaredsection152E, it widens out and becomes shallower. However, some of thescented household product200 that rode up along the first and second side surfaces145E,146E at the entry point will be carried down the first and second side surfaces145E,146E pouring spout140E along the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges177E,178E.
• In the exemplified embodiments, each of thefloor surface144E, thefirst side surface145E, and thesecond side surface146E comprise thelongitudinally extending ridges176E,177E,178E. In other embodiments, the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges177E,178E may be omitted from the first and second side surfaces145E,146E such that only thefloor surface144E may comprise the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E. In other embodiments, the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E may be omitted from thefloor surface144E such that only the first and second side surfaces145E,146E comprise the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges177E,178E.
• Thelongitudinally extending ridges176E,177E,178E are exemplified in the form of elongated ribs. In other embodiments, the transversely extendingridges175D may be in the form of steps formed into the pouringspout140E. Additionally, while thelongitudinally extending ridges176E,177E,178E are exemplified as continuous structures, thelongitudinally extending ridges176E,177E,178E may be segmented in other embodiments. In such embodiments, a segment of thelongitudinally extending ridges176E,177E,178E may be considered and referred to as a longitudinally extending ridge in of itself.
• Referring now toFIGS. 15-17 concurrently, a third embodiment of aspout fitment130F that includes a pouringspout140F having a topographical feature that may increase the amount of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed. In this embodiment, the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality of protuberances, which include a combination of the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D (discussed above in relation toFIGS. 9-11) and the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E (discussed above in relation toFIGS. 12-14). It is to be understood that the above discussions regarding the details of the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D and the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E are applicable to the exemplified embodiment ofFIGS. 15-17.
• The pouringspout140F of thespout fitment130F comprises both the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D, which are in segmented form, and the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E. Thus, thefloor surface144F comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E and segments of the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D (which can be considered transversely extending ridges). Thefirst side surface145F comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges177E and segments of the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D (which can be considered transversely extending ridges). Thesecond side surface146F comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges178E and segments of the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D (which can be considered transversely extending ridges).
• The plurality of transversely extendingridges175D are segmented such that the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D do not intersect with any of the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E. Rather, the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D and the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E form a non-intersecting grid arrangement. In certain other embodiments, the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D may intersect with the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E to form an intersecting grid arrangement.
• Referring now toFIGS. 18-20 concurrently, a fourth embodiment of aspout fitment130G that includes a pouringspout140G including a topographical feature that may increase the amount of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed. In this embodiment, the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality of depressions, which are in the form of a plurality of transversely extendinggrooves185G. The transversely extendinggrooves185G, in the exemplified embodiment, extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A. In other embodiments, however, the transversely extendinggrooves185G may extend obliquely to the longitudinal axis A-A.
• The transversely extendinggrooves185G are longitudinally spaced apart from one another along the pouringspout140G. The transversely extendinggrooves185G are substantially parallel to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may be arranged in non-parallel arrangements in other embodiments.
• In the exemplified embodiment, the transversely extendinggrooves185G are formed in and extend continuously across each of the floor surface144G, thefirst side surface145G, and thesecond side surface146G. Thus, each of the first and second side surfaces145G,146G and the floor surface144G can be considered to comprises a plurality of transversely extendinggrooves185G. In other embodiments, the plurality of transversely extendinggrooves185G may be omitted from the first and second side surfaces145G,146G such that only the floor surface144G may comprise the plurality of transversely extendinggrooves185G, and vice versa.
• The transversely extendinggrooves185G are exemplified in the form of elongated V-shaped channels. In other embodiments, the transversely extendinggrooves185G may have different sectional shapes, such as rectangular or semi-oval. In one particular embodiment, the transversely extendinggrooves185G (and the peaks therebetween) may have cross-sectional shapes such that an undulating surface is formed, wherein the undulations take the form of a repetitive pattern of concave valleys and convex peaks. In one such specific embodiment, the undulations may take on a sinusoidal configuration so that the spout resembles a traditional washboard.
• Additionally, while the transversely extendinggrooves185G are exemplified as continuous trenches, the transversely extendinggrooves185G may be segmented in other embodiments. The transversely extendinggrooves185G are linear in the exemplified embodiment but may be nonlinear in other embodiments, such as curved, either convex and/or concave.
• During a product dispensing event in which thespout fitment130G is incorporated into the packaged product1000, the transversely extendinggrooves185G may cause waves or other irregularities and/or turbulences in the stream of thescented household product200 flowing through theflow channel147G. As a result, an increased amount of scent may be released from thescented household product200 during the product dispensing event.
• Referring now toFIGS. 21-23 concurrently, a fifth embodiment of aspout fitment130H that includes a pouringspout140H including a topographical feature that may increase the amount of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed. In this embodiment, the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality of depressions, which are in the form of a plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H,187H,188H. In the exemplified embodiment, each of the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H,187H,188H extend the entire length of the pouringspout140H from thespout inlet148H to thespout outlet149H. In certain embodiments, one or more of the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H,187H,188H may extend less than the entire length of the pouringspout140H. Thelongitudinally extending grooves186H,187H,188H are transversely spaced apart from one another.
• The plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H are located along and formed into thefloor surface144H of the pouringspout140H. The plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H are transversely spaced from another. The plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H diverge from one another with longitudinal distance from thespout inlet148H. More specifically, the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H diverge from one another along the flaredsection152H of theflow channel147H. Thus, the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H may not only assist with creating waves and/or irregularities in the stream of thescented household liquid200 during a product dispensing event, but may also assist with spreading/widening the stream of thescented household liquid200 as it flows through the flaredsection152H, thereby ensuring an increase in the exposed surface area of thescented household liquid200. In certain embodiments, the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H may be arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal axis A-A so as to intersect each other along the longitudinal axis A-A to form consecutively nesting V-shaped grooves. In other embodiments, however, the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H may extend substantially parallel to one another and/or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A.
• The plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves187H are located along and formed into thefirst side surface145H of the pouringspout140H. The plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves187H extend substantially parallel to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may extend non-parallel to one another in other embodiments. The plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves188H are located along and formed into thesecond side surface146H of the pouringspout140H. The plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves188H extend substantially parallel to one another in the exemplified embodiment, but may extend non-parallel to one another in other embodiments.
• The plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves187H,188H may further assist with increasing the amount of scent released from thescented household liquid200 during a product dispensing event by directing a portion of the flow of thescented household liquid200 along the first and second side surfaces145H,146H. As a result, thescented household liquid200 may coat thefloor surface144H, thefirst side surface145H, and thesecond side surface146H during a product dispensing event. The existence of the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves187H,188H along the first and second side surfaces145H,146H may be particularly useful in embodiments in which the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves187H,188H are located along a flaredsection152H of theflow channel147H. In such an embodiment, because the width D of the flow channel147HH is narrowed at the entry point of the flaredsection152H (compared to the remainder of the flaredsection152H), the depth of the stream of thescented household product200 will be elevated at the entry point, allowing thescented household product200 to ride up along the first and second side surfaces145H,146H. As thescented household product200 flows down the flaredsection152H, widening out and becoming shallower, some of thescented household product200 that rode up along the first and second side surfaces145H,146H will carried down the pouringspout140H along the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves187H,188H.
• In the exemplified embodiments, each of thefloor surface144H, thefirst side surface145H, and thesecond side surface146H comprise thelongitudinally extending grooves186H,187H,188H. In other embodiments, the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves187H,188H may be omitted from the first and second side surfaces145H,146H such that only thefloor surface144H may comprise the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H. In other embodiments, the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H may be omitted from thefloor surface144H such that only the first and second side surfaces145H,146H comprise the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves187H,188H.
• Thelongitudinally extending grooves186H,187H,188H are exemplified in the form of elongated V-shaped channels. In other embodiments, thelongitudinally extending grooves186H,187H,188H may have different sectional shapes, such as rectangular or semi-oval. In one particular embodiment, thelongitudinally extending grooves186H,187H,188H (and the peaks therebetween) may have cross-sectional shapes such that an undulating surface is formed, wherein the undulations take the form of a repetitive pattern of concave valleys and convex peaks. In one such specific embodiment, the undulations may take on a sinusoidal configuration.
• Additionally, while thelongitudinally extending grooves186H,187H,188H are exemplified as continuous trenches, thelongitudinally extending grooves186H,187H,188H may be segmented in other embodiments. Thelongitudinally extending grooves186H,187H,188H are linear in the exemplified embodiment but may be nonlinear in other embodiments, such as curved, either convex and/or concave.
• Referring now toFIGS. 24-26 concurrently, a sixth embodiment of a spout fitment130I that includes a pouringspout140I including a topographical feature that may increase the amount of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed. In this embodiment, the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality of protuberances and a plurality of depressions. The plurality of protuberances are in the form of a plurality of transversely extendingridges175D (discussed above in relation toFIGS. 9-11) and the plurality of depressions are in the form of a plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H,187H,188H (discussed above in relation toFIGS. 21-23). It is to be understood that the above discussions regarding the details of the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D and the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H,187H,188I are applicable to the exemplified embodiment ofFIGS. 24-26.
• The pouringspout140I of the spout fitment130I comprises both the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D, which are in segmented form, and the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H,187H,188H. Thus, the floor surface144I comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H and segments of the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D (which can be considered transversely extending ridges). Thefirst side surface145I comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges187H and segments of the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D (which can be considered transversely extending ridges). Thesecond side surface146I comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves188H and segments of the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D (which can be considered transversely extending ridges).
• The plurality of transversely extendingridges175D are segmented such that the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D do not intersect with any of the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H,187H,188H. Rather, the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D and the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H,187H,188H to form a non-intersecting grid arrangement. In certain other embodiments, the plurality of transversely extendingridges175D may intersect with the plurality of longitudinally extendinggrooves186H,187H,188H to form an intersecting grid arrangement.
• Referring now toFIGS. 27-29 concurrently, a seventh embodiment of aspout fitment130J that includes a pouringspout140J including a topographical feature that may increase the amount of scent released during product dispensing is disclosed. In this embodiment, the topographical feature is in the form of a plurality of protuberances and a plurality of depressions. The plurality of protuberances are in the form of the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E (discussed above in relation toFIGS. 12-14) and the plurality of depressions are in the form of the plurality of transversely extendinggrooves185G (discussed above in relation toFIGS. 18-20). It is to be understood that the above discussions regarding the details of the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E and the plurality of transversely extendinggrooves185G are applicable to the exemplified embodiment ofFIGS. 27-29.
• The pouringspout140J of thespout fitment130J comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E and the plurality of transversely extendinggrooves185G (which are in segmented form). Thus, thefloor surface144J comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E and segments of the plurality of transversely extendinggrooves185G (which can be considered transversely extending grooves). Thefirst side surface145J comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges177E and segments of the plurality of transversely extendinggrooves185G (which can be considered transversely extending grooves). Thesecond side surface146J comprises both the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges178E and segments of the plurality of transversely extendinggrooves185G (which can be considered transversely extending grooves).
• The plurality of transversely extendinggrooves185G are segmented such that the plurality of transversely extendinggrooves185G do not intersect with any of the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E. Rather, the plurality of transversely extendinggrooves185G and the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E to form a non-intersecting grid arrangement. In certain other embodiments, the plurality of transversely extendinggrooves185G may intersect with the plurality of longitudinally extendingridges176E,177E,178E to form an intersecting grid arrangement.
• As mentioned above, the exact structural manifestation and arrangement of the topographical feature(s) on the pouring spout to increase scent release can be varied widely in accordance with the present invention. For example, in one non-illustrated embodiment, the topographical feature may consist of a roughened surface comprising surface irregularities. In still another non-illustrated embodiment, both longitudinally extending grooves and longitudinally extending ridges may be combined.
• While not shown, in some embodiments, a porous element may be included around thespout fitment130. The porous element is suitable for retaining a quantity of thescented household liquid200. The porous element captures, or becomes infused with, thescented household liquid200 and its fragrance either by simple contact with thescented household liquid200 or by capillary action as a result of coming into contact with thescented household liquid200. A potential purchaser is thus able to determine accurately the fragrance of thescented household liquid200 prior to purchasing thecontainer100. In addition, throughout the working lifetime of thecontainer100, i.e. while some of thescented household liquid200 remains in thecontainer100 and a user repeatedly dispense some of thescented household liquid200, the user is able to sniff theopening114 to determine accurately the fragrance of thescented household liquid200.
• While the invention has been described with respect to specific examples including presently preferred modes of carrying out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous variations and permutations of the above described systems and techniques. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Thus, the spirit and scope of the invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims (20)

1. A spout fitment for dispensing a liquid, the spout fitment comprising:

a pouring spout, the pouring spout comprising a floor surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface that collectively define a flow channel for dispensing the liquid, the flow channel extending along a longitudinal axis from a spout inlet to a spout outlet; and

at least one of the floor surface, the first side surface, and the second side surface comprising a topographical feature selected from at least one of a plurality of depressions and a plurality of protuberances.

2. The spout fitment according toclaim 1 wherein the flow channel comprises a flared section in which a transverse distance between the first and second side surfaces increases with longitudinal distance from the spout inlet.

3. The spout fitment according toclaim 1 wherein the topographical feature comprises a plurality of protuberances protruding from the floor of the pouring spout.

4. The spout fitment according toclaim 3 wherein the plurality of protuberances comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending ridges.

5. The spout fitment according toclaim 4 wherein the plurality of longitudinally extending ridges diverge from one another with longitudinal distance from the spout inlet.

6. The spout fitment according toclaim 3 wherein the plurality of protuberances comprises a plurality of transversely extending ridges.

7. The spout fitment according toclaim 1 wherein the topographical feature comprises a plurality of depressions formed in the floor of the pouring spout.

8. The spout fitment according toclaim 7 wherein the plurality of depressions comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves.

9. The spout fitment according toclaim 8 wherein the plurality of longitudinally extending grooves diverge from one another with longitudinal distance from the spout inlet.

10. The spout fitment according toclaim 7 wherein the plurality of depressions comprises a plurality of transversely extending grooves.

11. The spout fitment according toclaim 1 wherein the topographical feature comprises at least one longitudinally extending ridge protruding from each of the first and second side surfaces.

12. The spout fitment according toclaim 1 wherein the topographical feature comprises at least one longitudinally extending groove formed in each of the first and second side surfaces.

13. The spout fitment according toclaim 1 wherein the floor surface of the pouring spout is substantially planar.

14. The spout fitment according toclaim 1 wherein each the first and second side surfaces have a height that decreases with longitudinal distance from the spout inlet.

15. The spout fitment according toclaim 1 wherein the spout outlet has a width and a height, the width being greater than the height.

16. The spout fitment according toclaim 1 further comprising:

an annular wall;

an end wall extending inward from a bottom of the annular wall; and

the pouring spout extending upward from the end wall so that an annular gap is formed between the annular wall and the pouring spout.

17. A packaged product comprising:

the spout fitment according toclaim 1;

a container body forming a cavity containing the liquid, the container body comprising a neck portion;

the spout fitment coupled to the neck portion of the container body.

18. The packaged product according toclaim 17 further comprising a cap detachably coupled to the container body to cover the pouring spout and seal the cavity.

19. The packaged product according toclaim 17 wherein the neck portion comprises a top edge, the pouring spout having a first portion located within the neck portion and a second portion protruding beyond the top edge of the neck portion.

20. The spout fitment according toclaim 17 wherein the liquid is a scented household liquid selected from a group consisting of a laundry care liquid and a cleaning liquid.

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