US20240025604A1 - Child-resistant closure and package - Google Patents

Abstract

A child-resistant closure includes a polymeric top portion, a polymeric annular skirt portion depending from the top portion, and a cantilevered slidable lid. The top portion includes a slide portal with a retention wall, and forms an opening. The cantilevered slidable lid includes a first portion and a second portion. The first and second portions have respective first ends and second ends. The second end of the first portion forms a latch. The first end of the second portion is spaced from the first portion and forms a cantilever. The second portion extends generally upwardly and inwardly from the first portion into an interior of the closure. The cantilevered slidable lid is adapted to move by pressing on the first end of the second portion to release the latch and sliding the cantilevered slidable lid along the slide portal.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates generally to a closure that is configured to work with a container to form a package. More specifically, the present invention relates to a polymeric child-resistant closure.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• Polymeric closures have been used in many applications over the years in conjunction with containers. Some containers contain product or contents that are not intended for certain individuals, such as children. These contents may include products such as over-the-counter (OTC) medication, vitamins, prescriptions, etc. These containers are desirably child-resistant such that children are prevented or inhibited from gaining access to the products therein. These containers, however, may be difficult for other individuals to open and access the products contained therein. These other individuals may be those with reduced gripping strength, limited dexterity of their upper limbs (e.g., arms or hands), or other disabilities of their upper limbs that make such containers difficult to open.
• It would be desirable to provide a child-resistant closure that overcomes these disadvantages of existing containers, while still performing desirable properties of a closure including securely positioning the closure on the container.
SUMMARY
• According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a child-resistant closure includes a polymeric top portion, a polymeric annular skirt portion depending from the polymeric top portion, and a cantilevered slidable lid. The polymeric top portion has an exterior surface and an interior surface. The polymeric top portion includes a slide portal. The slide portal includes a retention wall. The polymeric top portion forms an opening. The cantilevered slidable lid includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a first end and a second end. The second end of the first portion forms a latch on an interior surface of the first portion. The second portion has a first end and a second end. The second end of the second portion is connected or attached to the second end of the first portion. The first end of the second portion is spaced from the first portion and forms a cantilever. The second portion extends generally upwardly and inwardly from the first portion into an interior of the closure. The cantilevered slidable lid is adapted to move by pressing on the first end of the second portion to release the latch and sliding the cantilevered slidable lid along the slide portal.
• According to a further configuration of the above implementation, the first portion has at least one retention projection extending upwardly from an exterior surface of the first portion. The at least one retention projection in conjunction with the retention wall assists in preventing or inhibiting removal of the cantilevered slidable lid from the remainder of the closure. The at least one retention projection is a plurality of retention projections in one embodiment.
• In a further aspect of the above implementation, the polymeric top portion further includes a depression or a latch-receiving opening. The depression or the latch-receiving opening being adapted to receive the latch when the closure is in a closed position.
• In a further aspect of the above implementation, the closure further includes a tamper-evident feature. In one non-limiting example, the tamper-evident feature is connected to the first end of the second portion via a frangible connection.
• In yet a further aspect of the above implementation, the second portion of the cantilevered slidable lid includes a plurality of gripping ridges extending from a top surface thereof to assist in sliding the cantilevered slidable lid along the slide portal.
• According to a further configuration of the above implementation, the polymeric annular skirt portion includes an internal thread formation.
• In a further aspect of the above implementation, the retention wall includes a pair of sidewalls bridging a top wall. The retention wall may further include a plurality of elongated rails to assist in sliding the cantilevered slidable lid along the slide portal.
• According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a package includes a container and a closure. The container has a neck portion defining an opening. The neck portion has an exterior surface and an interior surface. The closure is configured for fitment to the neck portion of the container for closing the opening. The closure includes a polymeric top portion, a polymeric annular skirt portion depending from the polymeric top portion, and a cantilevered slidable lid. The polymeric top portion has an exterior surface and an interior surface. The polymeric top portion includes a slide portal. The slide portal includes a retention wall. The polymeric top portion forms an opening. The cantilevered slidable lid includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a first end and a second end. The second end of the first portion forms a latch on an interior surface of the first portion. The second portion has a first end and a second end. The second end of the second portion is connected or attached to the second end of the first portion. The first end of the second portion is spaced from the first portion and forms a cantilever. The second portion extends generally upwardly and inwardly from the first portion into an interior of the closure. The cantilevered slidable lid is adapted to move by pressing on the first end of the second portion to release the latch and sliding the cantilevered slidable lid along the slide portal.
• According to a configuration of the above implementation, the first portion has at least one retention projection extending upwardly from an exterior surface of the first portion. The at least one retention projection in conjunction with the retention wall assists in preventing or inhibiting removal of the cantilevered slidable lid from the remainder of the closure.
• According to another configuration of the above implementation, the polymeric top portion further includes a depression or a latch-receiving opening. The depression or the latch-receiving opening is adapted to receive the latch when the closure is in a closed position.
• According to a further configuration of the above implementation, the closure further includes a tamper-evident feature. The tamper-evident feature is connected to the first end of the second portion via a frangible connection.
• According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, a child-resistant closure includes a polymeric top portion, a polymeric annular skirt portion depending from the polymeric top portion, and a cantilevered rotationable lid. The polymeric top portion has an exterior surface and an interior surface. The polymeric top portion forms an opening. The cantilevered rotationable lid includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a first end and a second end. The second end of the first portion forms a latch on an interior surface of the first portion. The second portion has a first end and a second end. The second end of the second portion is attached or connected to the second end of the first portion. The first end of the second portion is spaced from the first portion and forms a cantilever. The second portion extends generally upwardly and inwardly from the first portion into an interior of the closure. The cantilevered rotationable lid is adapted to rotate by pressing on the first end of the second portion to release the latch and rotate the cantilevered rotationable lid.
• According to a further configuration of the above implementation, the polymeric top portion includes at least one guiding member and an extension extending upwardly. The at least one guiding member assists in positioning the cantilevered rotationable lid.
• In a further aspect of the above implementation, the polymeric top portion further includes a depression or a latch-receiving opening. The depression or the latch-receiving opening is adapted to receive the latch when the closure is in a closed position.
• In a further aspect of the above implementation, the closure further includes a tamper-evident feature. The tamper-evident feature is connected to the first end of the second portion via a frangible connection.
• According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a package includes a container and a closure. The container has a neck portion defining an opening. The neck portion has an exterior surface and an interior surface. The closure is configured for fitment to the neck portion of the container for closing the opening. The closure includes a polymeric top portion, a polymeric annular skirt portion depending from the polymeric top portion, and a cantilevered rotationable lid. The polymeric top portion has an exterior surface and an interior surface. The polymeric top portion forms an opening. The cantilevered rotationable lid includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a first end and a second end. The second end of the first portion forms a latch on an interior surface of the first portion. The second portion has a first end and a second end. The second end of the second portion is attached or connected to the second end of the first portion. The first end of the second portion is spaced from the first portion and forms a cantilever. The second portion extends generally upwardly and inwardly from the first portion into an interior of the closure. The cantilevered rotationable lid is adapted to rotate by pressing on the first end of the second portion to release the latch and rotate the cantilevered rotationable lid.
• In a further aspect of the above implementation, the polymeric top portion includes at least one guiding member and an extension extending upwardly to prevent or inhibit further rotation of the cantilevered rotationable lid. The at least one guiding member assists in positioning the cantilevered rotationable lid.
• The above summary is not intended to represent each embodiment or every aspect of the present invention. Additional features and benefits of the present invention are apparent from the detailed description and figures set forth below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• Other advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon reference to the drawings in which:
• FIG.1A is a top perspective view of a child-resistant closure in a closed position according to one embodiment.
• FIG.1B is a top perspective view of the child-resistant closure ofFIG.1A in an open position.
• FIG.1C is a cross-sectional view taken generally acrossline1C-1C of the child-resistant closure ofFIG.1A.
• FIG.1D is a cross-sectional view of the child-resistant closure ofFIG.1A in the process of being opened.
• FIG.1E is another cross-sectional view of the child-resistant closure ofFIG.1A in the process of being opened.
• FIG.1F is a further cross-sectional view of the child-resistant closure ofFIG.1A after being fully opened.
• FIG.2 is a top perspective view of the child-resistant closure ofFIG.1A without a cantilevered slidable lid.
• FIG.3 is a top perspective view of a cantilevered slidable lid used in the child-resistant closure ofFIG.1A.
• FIG.4A is a top perspective view of a child-resistant closure in a closed position according to another embodiment.
• FIG.4B is a top perspective view of a child-resistant closure ofFIG.4B in an open position after removal of the tamper-evident feature.
• FIG.5 is a front view of a container according to one embodiment.
• FIG.6A is a side view of a package including the container ofFIG.5 and the child-resistant closure ofFIG.1A.
• FIG.6B is a top perspective view of the package ofFIG.6A.
• FIG.7A is a top perspective view of a child-resistant closure in a closed position according to a further embodiment.
• FIG.7B is a top perspective view of the child-resistant closure ofFIG.7A in an open position.
• FIG.7C is a cross-sectional view taken generally acrossline7C-7C of the child-resistant closure ofFIG.7A.
• FIG.8 is a top perspective view of the child-resistant closure ofFIG.7A without a cantilevered slidable lid.
• FIG.9 is a top perspective view of a cantilevered slidable lid used in the child-resistant closure ofFIG.7A.
• FIG.10 is a top perspective view of a child-resistant closure ofFIG.7A in a closed position according to yet another embodiment.
• FIG.11A is a front view of a package including the container ofFIG.5 and the child-resistant closure ofFIG.7A.
• FIG.11B is a top perspective view of the package ofFIG.11A.
• While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• Referring toFIGS.1A-1F, a polymeric child-resistant closure10 according to one embodiment is shown. The polymeric child-resistant closure10 is a one-piece closure. The polymeric child-resistant closures of the present invention are advantageous because they allow users with limited dexterity or reduced gripping strength to open and access the products contained in the container using much less physical effort. It also is advantageous for users with other disabilities of the upper limbs (e.g., the hand and/or arm) to open and access the products contained in the container using much less physical effort. In one method, the child-resistant closures can be opened to access the product using a single hand. The child-resistant closures may be opened in one smooth and natural motion.
• The polymeric child-resistant closure10 is configured for fitment to a neck portion of a container for closing an opening of the container. The polymeric child-resistant closure10 is configured to be used with acontainer100 ofFIG.5 that forms apackage200 as shown inFIGS.6A,6B.
• The polymeric child-resistant closure10 ofFIGS.1A,1B includes a polymerictop portion12, a polymericannular skirt portion40, and a cantileveredslidable lid50. The polymericannular skirt portion40 depends from the polymerictop portion12. The polymericannular skirt portion40 is shown as having a generally smooth exterior surface. This is advantageous if it is desirable for a user to not obtain a grip in an attempt to open the closure without using the slidable lid. It is contemplated, however, that the polymeric annular skirt portion may have a textured exterior surface.
• The polymerictop portion12 of the polymeric child-resistant closure10 is best shown inFIG.2 in the absence of the cantileveredslidable lid50. The polymerictop portion12 has anexterior surface14 and an interior surface16 (FIG.1C). Referring back toFIG.2, the polymerictop portion12 further includes aslide portal20 and adepression26 formed in theexterior surface14 of the polymerictop portion12. The polymerictop portion12 also forms anopening30. Theopening30 is partially surrounded and located within theretention wall22 in this embodiment.
• Theslide portal20 includes aretention wall22 that assists in moving and retaining the cantileveredslidable lid50 therealong to open and close the polymeric child-resistant closure10. More specifically, theretention wall22 assists the user in more easily and consistently opening the polymeric child-resistant closure10 and gaining access to theopening30. Theretention wall22 is a structure that extends above the remainder of the polymeric child-resistant closure10. Theretention wall22 has a pair ofside walls22a,22bthat is bridged by a front wall22c. Each of theside walls22a,22band front wall22cincludes a respective elongated rail24a-24cthat assists in sliding the cantileveredslidable lid50 more easily and also to prevents or inhibits the cantileveredslidable lid50 from being removed upwardly from the remainder of the polymeric child-resistant closure10.
• As will be discussed below, thedepression26 ofFIG.2 is sized to receive and contain alatch52 of the cantileveredslidable lid50 when the polymeric child-resistant closure10 is in a closed position. Thedepression26 is shown as being generally rectangular shaped inFIG.2. Thedepression26 slopes downwardly such thatend28bis at a greater depth D1 than end28a. It is contemplated that the depression may be other shapes and sizes that function with receiving and containing thelatch52 of the cantileveredslidable lid50. The shapes and sizes of the depression may be other polygonal (e.g., square) or non-polygonal shapes (e.g., oval). It is also contemplated that multiple latches and depressions may be used in another embodiment.
• The depth D1 at theend28bof thedepression26 can vary but in one embodiment is from about 0.03 to about 0.1 inches. In another embodiment, the depth D1 of the depression is from about 0.04 to about 0.08 inches.
• It is contemplated that a latch-receiving opening may be used instead of a depression for receiving and containing a latch of the cantilevered slidable lid. The latch-receiving opening would function in the same or similar manner as the depression, but would extend entirely through the polymeric top portion. The latch-receiving opening could be shaped the same as the depression or could take a different shape to correspond with a latch.
• Theopening30 shown inFIG.2 is generally rectangular in shape. It is contemplated that an opening formed in the polymeric top portion may be other shapes and sizes. The shapes and sizes of the opening may be other polygonal (e.g., square) or non-polygonal shapes (e.g., circular or oval). The size of theopening30 can vary and may desirably be dependent on the product being dispensed. This allows for metered control of product release by corresponding the aperture size to the product size.
• In one method, theslide portal20 is integrally formed with the polymerictop portion12. The slide portal, for example, may be molded with the polymeric top portion. In another embodiment, the slide portal may be formed separately and attached to the polymeric top portion.
• The cantileveredslidable lid50 of the polymeric child-resistant closure10 is shown best inFIG.3 according to one embodiment. The cantileveredslidable lid50 is configured to slide into and along theslide portal20 to open and close the polymeric child-resistant closure10 so as to provide access to the contents of thecontainer100 ofFIG.5 in thepackage200 ofFIGS.6A,6B. The cantileveredslidable lid50 in one method is formed separately from the remainder of the polymeric child-resistant closure10.
• The cantileveredslidable lid50 includes afirst portion54 and asecond portion56 that are integrally connected or attached to each other. Thefirst portion54 has afirst end54aand asecond end54b. Thefirst portion54 has a plurality ofretention projections60a,60bextending upwardly from an exterior surface68 thereof. It is contemplated that the first portion of the cantileveredslidable lid50 may include exactly one retention projection.
• Thefirst portion54 also includes a plurality ofcutouts64a,64b(FIG.3). The cutouts save material and also assist in making it easier to bend at the hinge point. It is contemplated that the cutouts may not be formed in other embodiments.
• The plurality ofretention projections60a,60bin conjunction with theretention wall22 assists in preventing or inhibiting removal of the cantileveredslidable lid50 from the remainder of the polymeric child-resistant closure10. This is shown best inFIGS.1B,1F with the plurality ofretention projections60a,60babutting and contacting respective portions of theretention wall22. It is contemplated that the retention projections may be of other shapes and sizes. Referring back toFIG.3, thesecond end54bof thefirst portion54 forms thelatch52 on an interior surface62 thereof.
• Thesecond portion56 of the cantileveredslidable lid50 has afirst end56aand asecond end56b. Thesecond end56bis connected or attached to thesecond end54bof thefirst portion54. As shown best inFIG.1C, thefirst end56aof thesecond portion56 is spaced from thefirst portion54 and forms a cantilever. Thesecond portion56 extends generally upwardly and inwardly from thefirst portion54 into an interior of the polymeric child-resistant closure10.
• Thesecond portion56 ofFIG.3 includes afirst segment58a, asecond segment58b, athird segment58cand afourth segment58d. In one embodiment, all of the segments58a-58dare integrally connected or attached. As shown inFIG.3, thesecond segment58bis located closer to thefirst portion54 than thefirst segment58a. Thethird segment58cis integrally connected to thefirst segment58anear thefourth segment58d. Thethird segment58cextends upwardly and inwardly from thesecond end56bof the second portion and then generally flattens out at thefirst segment58aas shown best inFIG.1C. Thefourth segment58d, which extends generally perpendicular, is connected to each of the other segments58a-58cand also to thefirst portion54.
• Thesecond portion56 of the cantileveredslidable lid50 further includes a plurality of grippingridges66 that extends from a top surface of the second portion56 (specificallyfirst segment58a). The plurality of grippingridges66 assists in sliding the cantileveredslidable lid50 along theslide portal20 to open and close the polymeric child-resistant closure10. Thesecond portion56 of the cantileveredslidable lid50 is a generally rectangular shape. It is contemplated that the cantilevered slidable lid may be of other shapes and sizes.
• For a user to move the polymeric child-resistant closure10 from the closed position (FIG.1A) to the open position (FIG.1B) in the general direction of arrow A inFIG.1A, a certain amount of force is needed to release thelatch52 of the cantileveredslidable lid50 from thedepression26 formed in the polymerictop portion12. Thelatch52 is released by pressing downwardly (in the direction of arrow B inFIG.1C) and then moving the cantileveredslidable lid50 in the direction of arrow A inFIG.1C. The movement is progressively shown inFIGS.1D-1F until the cantileveredslidable lid50 is in the fully open position (FIG.1F). To close the polymeric child-resistant closure10, the cantileveredslidable lid50 is moved in the direction of arrow C (opposite of arrow A). This movement of the polymeric child-resistant closure10 between the closed position (FIG.1A) and the open position (FIG.1B) may be performed using a single hand and in a smooth and natural motion.
• The polymeric child-resistant closure10 may also include tamper-evident features. The tamper-evident features show visual identification to a user that the closure may have been opened and the product potentially been accessed. For example, the tamper-evident feature may be of a structure where the cantileveredslidable lid50 cannot be moved without removing or breaking the tamper-evident feature.
• One non-limiting example is shown inFIGS.4A,4B.FIGS.4A,4B show a polymeric child-resistant closure70 that is identical to the polymeric child-resistant closure10, except for the addition of the tamper-evident feature80. The tamper-evident feature80 is a walled structure that is connected to thefirst end56aof thesecond portion56 via afrangible connection72. To move the cantileveredslidable lid50 as described above, the tamper-evident feature80 needs to be removed or broken. The tamper-evident feature is typically configured to prevent or inhibit the cantileveredslidable lid50 from being pressed down or from being moved in general such that thelatch52 will not be released from thedepression26. It is contemplated that other tamper-evident features may be used in the polymeric child-resistant closure.
• It is contemplated that the polymeric child-resistant closure may also include a liner located on an interior surface of the top wall portion. The liner is typically made of compressible polymeric material and provides sealing for the child-resistant closure. In one embodiment, the liner is a polymeric foam liner. In other embodiments, other sealing mechanisms can be used in conjunction with the polymeric child-resistant closures. For example, in one embodiment, an interior surface of the top portion may include a polymeric continuous plug seal and/or an outer seal. The polymeric continuous plug seal and/or the outer seal depend from the polymeric top portion and provide a sealing mechanism. It is contemplated that other sealing mechanisms may be used in the polymeric child-resistant closure.
• An interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion may also include an internal thread formation in one embodiment. This is shown inFIG.1C where the polymericannular skirt portion40 includes aninternal thread formation74 that is for mating engagement with an external thread formation of a finish of a container.
• The internal thread formation may be a continuous helical thread in one embodiment. In another embodiment, the internal thread formation includes a first closure lead and a second closure lead, which are referred collectively as a double lead closure thread. Each of the first and second closure leads may be continuous. The first and second helical closure leads may be helical. It is also contemplated that the internal thread formation of the closure may differ from a helical thread formation. It is also contemplated that other internal thread formations may be used in the closure.
• In another embodiment, the interior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion may include one or more anti-rotational features. Having either the closure or the container having anti-rotational features is advantageous when the product being stored in the container is not desirable for certain individuals (e.g., medicine for children). This embodiment can be also advantageous in that it greatly reduces the possibility of separating the child-resistant closure from the container. Thus, in this embodiment, the polymeric child-resistant closure assists in reducing environmental waste when the container is recycled in this embodiment.
• The exterior surface of the polymeric annular skirt portion may also include a plurality of ridges. This may be employed if there is a desire for a user to obtain and grip the closure, or if a grip is desired in the manufacturing process for placing the closure onto the container. Since the polymeric child-resistant closure is typically designed not to allow the closure to be unthreaded from the container, the polymeric annular skirt portion is typically smooth. This makes it more difficult to get a better grip on the polymeric annular skirt portion when attempting to pull off or remove the closure with respect to the container. The child-resistant closure may include an oxygen-scavenger material. This oxygen-scavenger material may be distributed within the closure or may be a separate layer. The oxygen-scavenger material may be any material that assists in removing oxygen within the container, while having little or no effect on the contents within the container.
• Alternatively, or in addition to, the child-resistant closure may include an oxygen-barrier material. The oxygen-barrier material may be added as a separate layer or may be integrated within the closure itself. The oxygen-barrier materials assist in preventing or inhibiting oxygen from entering the container through the closure. These materials may include, but are not limited to, ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH). It is contemplated that other oxygen-barrier materials may be used in the closure.
• A container is used with a polymeric child-resistant closure. A container has a neck portion defining an opening. The neck portion has an exterior surface and an interior surface. In one embodiment, the container has an external thread formation on the neck portion. It is contemplated in another embodiment that the container does not include an external thread formation on the neck portion. In such an embodiment, the container may have anti-rotational features instead.
• Referring toFIG.5, acontainer100 is shown that includes aneck portion102 defining anopening106. Theneck portion102 of thecontainer100 includes anexternal thread formation110 in this embodiment. In one embodiment, the external thread formation is for mating engagement with an internal thread formation of the polymeric closure. In another embodiment, if a polymeric closure includes anti-rotational features, then there will not be a threaded engagement with an external thread formation of the container.
• Theexternal thread formation110 is one continuous helical thread in this embodiment. In another embodiment, the external thread formation includes a first container lead and a second container lead, which are referred collectively as a double lead closure thread. Each of the first and second container leads may be continuous. The first and second helical container leads may be helical. It is contemplated that the first and second container leads may be discontinuous.
• It is also contemplated that the external thread formation of the container may differ from a helical thread formation. It is also contemplated that other external thread formations may be used in the container. For example, the external thread formation may include a triple-threaded structure having first, second and third closure leads.
• It is contemplated that other features may be included on theneck portion102. Some non-limiting examples include retention lugs, A-collar for banded applications, and splines.
• In one embodiment, a package comprises a container with an opening and a polymeric child-resistant closure. The polymeric child-resistant closure is configured for fitment to a neck portion of the container for closing the opening. The child-resistant closures are configured to be placed on a container or bottle that contain product. The product may be a liquid product, but typically is a solid product. In another embodiment, the product may be a combination of a liquid and solid product. Some products that may be especially desirable to use include dispensable tablets such as over-the-counter (OTC) medication, vitamins, prescriptions, etc. It is noted that theopening30 of the polymeric child-resistant closure10 may allow for metered dispersion of product by varying aperture size dependent upon product variation. The child-resistant closures can be color coordinated for product type to aid in visual identification of product being used before opening the container.
• One non-limiting example of a closure and a container forming a package is shown inFIGS.6A,6B.FIG.6A is a side perspective view of thepackage200 including the polymeric child-resistant closure10 ofFIG.1A and thecontainer100 ofFIG.5 in a closed position.FIG.6B is a top perspective view of thepackage200 including the polymeric child-resistant closure10 ofFIG.1A and thecontainer100 ofFIG.5 in a closed position.
• Referring toFIGS.7A-7C, a polymeric child-resistant closure210 according to another embodiment is shown. The polymeric child-resistant closure210 is configured for fitment to a neck portion of a container. In one embodiment, the polymeric child-resistant closure210 is configured to be used with thecontainer100 ofFIG.5, which is described above, that forms apackage300 as shown inFIGS.11A,11B.
• The polymeric child-resistant closure210 ofFIGS.7A,7B includes a polymerictop portion212, a polymericannular skirt portion240, and acantilevered rotationable lid250. The polymericannular skirt portion240 depends from the polymerictop portion212. The polymericannular skirt portion240 is shown as having a generally smooth exterior surface. This is advantageous if it is desirable for a user to not obtain a grip in an attempt to open the closure without using the cantilevered rotationable lid. It is contemplated that the polymeric annular skirt portion may have a textured exterior surface.
• The polymerictop portion212 of the polymeric child-resistant closure210 is best shown in the absence of the cantileveredrotationable lid250 inFIG.8. The polymerictop portion212 has anexterior surface214 and an interior surface216 (FIG.7B). The polymerictop portion212 further includes guidingmembers220a,220b, adepression226, and a plurality of extensions orprojections224a,224bformed in theexterior surface214 of the polymerictop portion212. The polymerictop portion212 forms anopening230. Theopening230, as shown best inFIG.8, is generally located between the guidingmembers220a,220b.
• The guidingmembers220a,220bassist in moving and retaining the cantileveredrotationable lid250 therearound to open and close the polymeric child-resistant closure210. More specifically, the guidingmembers220a,220bassist the user in more easily and consistently opening the polymeric child-resistant closure210 so as to gain access to theopening230. The guidingmembers220a,220bare in the general shape of the letter “L”. The cantileveredrotationable lid250 rotates into and through an area formed by the guidingmembers220a,220bas best shown inFIGS.7A,7B. The guidingmembers220a,220balso assist in preventing or inhibiting the cantileveredrotationable lid250 from being removed upwardly from the remainder of the polymeric child-resistant closure210 when in a closed position. It is contemplated that there may be more or less guiding members in the polymeric child-resistant closure.
• As will be discussed below, thedepression226 is sized to receive and contain alatch252 of the cantileveredrotationable lid250 when the polymeric child-resistant closure210 is in a closed position. Thedepression226 is shown as being generally rectangular shaped inFIG.8. Thedepression226 slopes downwardly such thatend228bis at a greater depth D2 thanend228a. It is contemplated that the depression may be other shapes and sizes that function with receiving and containing thelatch252 of the cantileveredrotationable lid250. These shapes and sizes of the depression may be other polygonal (e.g., square) or non-polygonal shapes (e.g., oval). It is also contemplated that multiple latches and depressions may be used in another embodiment.
• The depth D2 at theend228bof thedepression226 can vary but in one embodiment is from about 0.03 inches to about 0.1 inches. In another embodiment, the depth D2 of the depression is from about 0.04 to about 0.08 inches.
• It is contemplated that a latch-receiving opening may be used instead of a depression for receiving and containing a latch of the cantilevered rotationable lid. The latch-receiving opening would function in the same or similar manner as the depression, but would extend entirely through the polymeric top portion. The latch-receiving opening could be shaped the same as the depression or could take a different shape to correspond with a latch.
• Theopening230 shown inFIG.8 is generally or roughly semi-circular in shape. It is contemplated that an opening formed in the polymeric top portion may be other shapes and sizes. The shapes and sizes of the opening may be other non-polygonal shapes (e.g., circular or oval) or polygonal shapes. The size of theopening230 can vary and may desirably be dependent on the product being dispensed. This allows for metered control of product release by corresponding the aperture size to the product size.
• In one method, the guidingmembers220a,220bare integrally formed with the polymerictop portion212. The guiding members, for example, may be molded with the polymeric top portion. In another embodiment, the guiding members may be formed separately and attached to the polymeric top portion.
• The cantileveredrotationable lid250 of the polymeric child-resistant closure210 is shown best inFIG.9 according to one embodiment. The cantileveredrotationable lid250 is configured to rotate to open and close the polymeric child-resistant closure210, which also provides access to the contents of thecontainer100 ofFIG.5 in thepackage300 ofFIGS.11A,11B. The cantileveredrotationable lid250 in one method is formed separately from the remainder of the polymeric child-resistant closure210.
• The cantileveredrotationable lid250 includes afirst portion254 and asecond portion256 that are integrally connected or attached. Thefirst portion254 has afirst end254aand asecond end254b. Thefirst portion254 has a generally semicircular portion with an extension therefrom that forms thelatch252. Theextension224bassists in preventing or inhibiting over rotation of the cantileveredrotationable lid250. This is shown best inFIG.7B.
• Thefirst portion254 of the cantileveredrotationable lid250 forms an aperture268 (FIG.9) that is configured to be received by theextension224ato assist in rotating thecantilevered rotationable lid250. Thus, theaperture268 is sized and shaped to receive theextension224a. To assist in keeping the cantileveredrotationable lid250 in place, theextension224aincludes a screw238 (seeFIG.8). It is contemplated that other mechanisms or fasteners may be used. Thesecond end254bof thefirst portion254 forms thelatch252 on aninterior surface262 thereof.
• Thesecond portion256 of the cantileveredrotationable lid250 has afirst end256aand asecond end256b. Thesecond end256bis connected to thesecond end254bof thefirst portion254. As shown best inFIG.7C, thefirst end256aof thesecond portion256 is spaced from thefirst portion254 and forms a cantilever. Thesecond portion256 extends generally upwardly and inwardly from thefirst portion254 into an interior of the polymeric child-resistant closure210.
• Thesecond portion256 ofFIG.9 includes afirst segment258a, asecond segment258b, athird segment258cand afourth segment258d. In one embodiment, all of the segments258a-258dare integrally connected or attached. As shown inFIG.9, thesecond segment258bis located closer to thefirst portion254 than thefirst segment258a. Thethird segment258cis integrally connected to thefirst segment258anear thefourth segment258d. Thethird segment258cextends upwardly and inwardly from thesecond end256bof the second portion and then generally flattens out at thefirst segment258aas shown best inFIG.7C. Thefourth segment258d, which extends generally perpendicular, is connected to each of the other segments258a-258cand also to thefirst portion254.
• Thesecond portion256 of the cantileveredrotationable lid250 further includes a plurality of grippingridges266 that extends from a top surface of the second portion256 (specificallyfirst segment258a). The plurality of grippingridges266 assists in rotating thecantilevered rotationable lid250 to both open and close the polymeric child-resistant closure210. It is contemplated that the cantilevered rotationable lid may be of other shapes and sizes.
• For a user to rotate the polymeric child-resistant closure210 from the closed position (FIG.7A) to the open position (FIG.7B) in the general direction of arrow D inFIG.7A, a certain amount of force is needed to release thelatch252 of the cantileveredrotationable lid250 from thedepression226 formed on the polymerictop portion212. Thelatch252 is released by pressing downwardly (in the direction of arrow E inFIG.7C) and then rotating thecantilevered rotationable lid250 in the direction of arrow D inFIG.7A. To close the polymeric child-resistant closure210, the cantileveredrotationable lid250 is moved in the direction of arrow F inFIG.7B (opposite of arrow D). This rotational movement of the polymeric child-resistant closure210 between the closed position (FIG.7A) and the open position (FIG.7B) may be performed using a single hand and in a smooth and natural motion.
• The polymeric child-resistant closure210 may also include tamper-evident features as discussed above. One non-limiting example is shown inFIG.10.FIG.10 shows a polymeric child-resistant closure270 that is identical to the polymeric child-resistant closure210, except for the addition of the tamper-evident feature280. The tamper-evident feature280 is a walled structure that is connected to thefirst end256aof thesecond portion256 via afrangible connection272. To rotate the cantileveredrotationable lid250 as described above, the tamper-evident feature280 needs to be removed or broken. The tamper-evident feature is typically configured to prevent or inhibit the cantileveredrotationable lid250 from being pressed down or being moved in general such that thelatch252 will not be released from thedepression226. It is contemplated that other tamper-evident features may be added to the polymeric child-resistant closure.
• The child-resistant closures are typically made of polymeric material, such as olefin (e.g., polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP)), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or blends thereof. One example of a polyethylene that may be used is high density polyethylene (HDPE). It is contemplated that the child-resistant closures may be made of other polymeric materials.
• The child-resistant closures are typically formed by processes such as injection or compression molding.
• Thecontainer100 is typically made of polymeric material. One non-limiting example of a material to be used in forming a polymeric container is polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP) or blends using the same. It is contemplated that the container may be formed of other polymeric or copolymer materials. Thecontainer100 is typically have an encapsulated oxygen-barrier layer or oxygen barrier material incorporated therein.
• In another embodiment, the child-resistant closures may be made of non-polymeric materials such as metal. In such a configuration, the closure would need to be designed such that the slidable lid would be able to be properly positioned on the slide portal.
• While the foregoing written description of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above described embodiment, method, and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention.

Claims (15)

1. A child-resistant closure comprising:

a polymeric top portion having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the polymeric top portion including a slide portal, the slide portal including a retention wall, the polymeric top portion forming an opening;

a polymeric annular skirt portion depending from the polymeric top portion; and

a cantilevered slidable lid including a first portion and a second portion, the first portion having a first end and a second end, the second end of the first portion forming a latch on an interior surface of the first portion, the second portion having a first end and a second end, the second end of the second portion being connected or attached to the second end of the first portion, the first end of the second portion being spaced from the first portion and forming a cantilever, the second portion extending upwardly and inwardly from the first portion into an interior of the closure,

wherein the cantilevered slidable lid is adapted to move by pressing on the first end of the second portion to release the latch and sliding the cantilevered slidable lid along the slide portal.

2. The closure ofclaim 1, wherein the first portion has at least one retention projection extending upwardly from an exterior surface of the first portion, the at least one retention projection in conjunction with the retention wall assists in preventing or inhibiting removal of the cantilevered slidable lid from the remainder of the closure.

3. The closure ofclaim 2, wherein the at least one retention projection is a plurality of retention projections.

4. The closure ofclaim 1, wherein the polymeric top portion further includes a depression or a latch-receiving opening, the depression or the latch-receiving opening being adapted to receive the latch when the closure is in a closed position.

5. The closure ofclaim 1 further including a tamper-evident feature.

6. The closure ofclaim 5, wherein the tamper-evident feature is connected to the first end of the second portion via a frangible connection.

7. The closure ofclaim 1, wherein the second portion of the cantilevered slidable lid includes a plurality of gripping ridges extending from a top surface thereof to assist in sliding the cantilevered slidable lid along the slide portal.

8. The closure ofclaim 1, wherein the polymeric annular skirt portion includes an internal thread formation.

9. The closure ofclaim 1, wherein the retention wall includes a pair of sidewalls bridging a top wall.

10. The closure ofclaim 9, wherein the retention wall further includes a plurality of elongated rails to assist in sliding the cantilevered slidable lid along the slide portal.

11. A package comprising:

a container having a neck portion defining an opening, the neck portion having an exterior surface and an interior surface; and

a closure being configured for fitment to the neck portion of the container for closing the opening, the closure includes a polymeric top portion, a polymeric annular skirt portion depending from the polymeric top portion and a cantilevered slidable lid, the polymeric top portion having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the polymeric top portion including a slide portal, the slide portal including a retention wall, the polymeric top portion forming an opening, the cantilevered slidable lid including a first portion and a second portion, the first portion having a first end and a second end, the second end of the first portion forming a latch on an interior surface of the first portion, the second portion having a first end and a second end, the second end of the second portion being connected or attached to the second end of the first portion, the first end of the second portion being spaced from the first portion and forming a cantilever, the second portion extending upwardly and inwardly from the first portion into an interior of the closure,

wherein the cantilevered slidable lid is adapted to move by pressing on the first end of the second portion to release the latch and sliding the cantilevered slidable lid along the slide portal.

12. The package ofclaim 11, wherein the first portion has at least one retention projection extending upwardly from an exterior surface of the first portion, the at least one retention projection in conjunction with the retention wall assists in preventing or inhibiting removal of the cantilevered slidable lid from the remainder of the closure.

13. The package ofclaim 11, wherein the polymeric top portion further includes a depression or a latch-receiving opening, the depression or the latch-receiving opening being adapted to receive the latch when the closure is in a closed position.

14. The package ofclaim 11, wherein the closure further including a tamper-evident feature, the tamper-evident feature being connected to the first end of the second portion via a frangible connection.

15-20. (canceled)

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