TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to a dispensing closure fo initially preventing, but subsequently permitting, communication between the exterior and interior of a system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AND

TECHNICAL PROBLEMS POSED BY THE PRIOR ART

Closures are employed to selectively prevent or permit communication between the exterior and interior of a system (e.g., machine, equipment, containment system, (including bottles and pouches), etc.) through an opening in the system. One type of closure includes a (1) receiving structure (e.g., a body, base, fitment, etc.) at an opening to the system interior, and (2) a movable closing element which defines at least one dispensing aperture and which is movable between open and closed positions. Some closures may also include a lid, cover, overcap, etc.

The receiving structure may typically be either (1) a separate structure that (a) can be attached at such a system opening, and (b) defines at least one access passage through the receiving structure for communicating through such a system opening with the interior of such a system, or (2) an integral structure that is a unitary portion of such a system and that defines at least one access passage through the integral structure such that the access passage functions as the opening, per se, to the system.

The movable closing element typically accommodates movement relative to the receiving structure access passage between (1) a fully closed orientation (e.g., position) occluding the access passage, and (2) an open orientation (e.g., position) at. least partially- exposing the access passage.

With some prior art closures, especially ones having a plurality of dispensing apertures, the movable closing element and receiving structure may not seal against each other in a manner sufficient to prevent an undesirable amount of leakage in the fully closed condition— especially in-leakage of air from the exterior ambient environment and/or out- leakage of a liquid, gaseous, or powder product from a container attached to the interior side of the closure.

The inventors of the present invention have determined that it would be desirable to provide an improved assembly of a movable closing element and receiving structure which would accommodate designs having one or more dispensing apertures and which would reduce or minimize, if not completely eliminate, leakage through the assembly components when the assembly is in the closed condition, as well as reduce or minimize, if not completely eliminate, unwanted leakage between the components when the assembly is in both closed and the open conditions.

It would additionally be beneficial if such an improved assembly could be relatively easily operated, without requiring an unusually complex manipulation or series of manipulations.

it would also be beneficial if the components of such an improved assembly could be relatively easy to manufacture and assemble.

Further, it would be desirable if such an improved assembly could accommodate a plurality of dispensing conditions for selectively dispensing different flow rates or quantities of product from a container or other system during a specific dispensing action or operation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention, and particularly the preferred embodiment of the invention, provides various operational advantages. The operational advantages are especially effective and desirable in the assembly components when they are molded from polyethylene and/or polypropylene.

According to broad aspects of one form of the present invention, a combination of a receiving structure and a closing element which together in an initially assembled orientation is provided having a closed condition that prevents communication through both the receiving structure and the closing element, but which can be subsequently operated to establish an open condition to permit communication through both the receiving structure and the closing element.

The combination has a receiving structure that defines at least, one access passage extending through the receiving structure;

The combination further has a closing element that defines at least one dispensing aperture extending through the closing element.

Further, the combination has at least one seal member that (a) is carried by one of the receiving structure and the closing element, (b) has a projecting configuration that extends peripherally around said one of the receiving structure at least one access passage and the closing element at least one dispensing aperture., arid (c) is resiliently deflected from a pre-assenibled condition and compressively engaged with the other of the receiving structure and closing element so as to establish an interference fit sliding seal between the receiving structure and closing element.

It should be appreciated that the invention may include all or none of the above-described features, or include only one or some of the above-described features, or include any combination of the above-described features. Furthermore, other advantages and features of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description of the invention, from the claims, and from the accompanying drawings .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

in the accompanying drawings forming part of the specification, in which like numerals are employed to designate like parts throughout the same,

FIG. I is an isometric view of an assembly, comprising the combination of a closing element and a receiving structure which together constitute a closure according to a presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, and the isometri c view is taken from above the top of the closure to show the closure components in an initially assembled orientation (that defines a fully closed condition) as may be initially provided by the manufacturer for subsequent installation on a system (e.g., a containe (not illustrated) in which a product is stored or can be stored);

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the closure shown in FIG. i, but in FIG. 2 the closing element has been exploded axially outward of the receiving structure;

FIG . 3 Is an isometric view of the closure shown in FIG. 1, but in FIG. 3 the closure components appear in a first open condition In which the closing element has bee rotated counter-clockwise with respect to receiving structure, as viewed from above the closure;

FIG, 4 is an isometric view of the closure in the first open condition shown in FIG. 3, but in FIG. 4 the closing element lias been exploded axially outward of the receiving structure:

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of only the closing element component of the closure shown in FIG. 1, and in FIG. 5 the isometric view is taken from above the closing element to show the exterior features of the closing element;

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of the closing element shown in FIG. 5, but in FIG. 6 the isometric view is taken from below the closing element to show the interior features of the closing el ement;

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of only the receiving structure component of the closure shown FIG. 1, and in FIG. 7 the Isometric view is taken from above the receiving structure to show the exterior features of the receiving structure;

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of only the receiving structure of FIG. 7, but in FIG. 8 the isometric view is taken from below the receiving structure to show the interior features of the receiving structure;

FIG . 9 is a top plan view of the receiving structure shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of the receiving structure shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 11 is a bottom plan view of the receiving structure shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the plane 12-12 in FIG, 9;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the plane 13-13 in FIG. 9;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the plane 14-14 in FIG. 9; FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the plane 15-15 in FIG. 9;

FIG . 16 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the plane 16-1 in FIG, 9;

FIG. 17 is an enlarged, fragmentary, cross-sectional view of the region of the receiving structure shown in the circle labeled "FIG. 17" in FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is an enlarged fragmentary, cross-sectional view of the region of the receiving structure shown in the circle labeled "FIG. 1.8" in FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the plane 19-19 in FIG.

10;

FIG. 20 is a top plan view of the closing element shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the plane 21-21 in FIG.

20;

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the plane 22-22 In FIG. 20;

FIG. 23 is a bottom plan view of the closing element shown in FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the plane 24-24 in FIG.

23;

FIG . 25 is a top plan view of the closure shown in FIG. 1, wherein the closing element is illustrated in the fully closed condition;

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional vie taken generally along the plane 26-26 in FIG. 25;

FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of the closure shown in FIG. 25;

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the plane 28-28 in FIG.

25;

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the plane 29-29 in FIG.

FIG. 30 is a simplified, greatly enlarged, fragmentary, cross-sectional view of the closure shown in FIG. 1, but in FIG. 30 the closure is illustrated in a first open condition with a dispensing aperture in communication with an access passage; FIG. 31 is a simplified, greatly enlarged, fragmentary, cross-sectional view of the closure shown in FIG. 1 , and in FIG. 31 the closure is illustrated in a fully closed condition with an access passage occluded by the closing element;

FIG, 32 is a simplified, cut-away isometric view of the closure shown in FIG. 1 , and in FIG. 32 the closure is illustrated in a fully closed condition with an access passage occluded by the closing element; and

FIG. 33 is a simplified, cut-away isometric view of the closure in FIG. 1 , but in FIG, 33 the closure is illustrated in a first open condition with a dispensing aperture in communication with an access passage;

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in different forms, this specification and the accompanying drawings disclose only some specific embodiments as examples of the invention. The invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments so described, and the scope of the invention will be pointed out in the appended claims.

For ease of description, many Figures illustrating the invention sho w a presently preferred embodiment of a combination of a receiving structure and closing element functioning as a packaging container "closure" in the typical orientation thai the closure would have when Installed at the opening of an upright containment system (which may be, for example, a flexible pouch, bottle, or other container), and terms such as upper, lower, horizontal, etc., are used with reference to this orientation. It will be understood, however, that the closure may be manufactured, stored, transported, used, and sold in an orientation other than the orientation described.

The combination of the receiving structure and closing element is suitable for use with a variety of conventional or special systems, the details of which, although not fully illustrated or described, would be apparent to those having skill in the art and an understanding of such systems. The particular systems, per se„ that are described herein form no part of, and therefore are not intended to limit, the broad aspects of the present invention,

The illustrated embodiment, of the closure will typically be used on a system in the form of a containment system that contains a material or substance (e.g., a product such as talcum powder, a lotion, a fluent food, or a liquid drink) that can be dispensed, or otherwise removed, from the system through the opened closure. The product may be, for example, a fluent material such as a powder, liquid, cream, slurry, or paste.

If the system is a container, and if the container and closure are large enough, then the product could also be non-fluent, discrete pieces of material (e.g., food products such as nuts, candies, crackers, cookies, etc., or non-food products including various items, particles, granules, etc.) which can be removed through an open closure by hand from a container, or scooped out of a container, or ladled out of a container, or poured out of a container. Such materials may be, for example, a food product, a personal care product, an industrial product, a household product, or other types of products. Such materials may be for internal or external use by humans or animals, or for other uses (e.g., activities involving medicine, manufacturing, commercial or household maintenance, construction, agriculture, etc.).

An embodiment of a closure incorporating the present invention is illustrated in the Figures wherein the closure is designated generally by reference number 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the closure 20 is provided in the form of a separate closure wliich is especially suitable for being attached to a system (not illustrated) in the form of a containment system that would typically contain contents such as a product consisting of a fluent material (e.g., talcum powder or a liquid). Such a containment system could be a collapsible, flexible pouch, or may be a generally rigid container (which may have somewhat flexible, resilient walls), such as a bottle or tank.

The system may be some other system which may include, or be part of, for example, a medical device, processing machine, dispenser, reservoir on a machine, etc., wherein the system has an opening to the system interior. The system may have any configuration suitable for the intended use. The system, per se, such as a bottle, pouch. -g~ or other containment system, or other type of system per se, does not form a part of the broadest aspects of the present invention, per se.

If the system is a containment system such as a container (not illustrated), then the containment system, or a portion thereof, may be made from a material suitable for the intended application (e.g., a thin, flexible material for a pouch wherei such a material could be a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film or a polyethylene film, or a thicker, less flexible material for a bottle wherein such a less flexible material could be injection-molded polyethylene or polypropylene).

In applications wherein the closure 20 is mounted to a container such as a bottle or pouch (not illustrated), then it is contemplated that typically, after the closure manufacturer makes the closure (e.g., by molding components of the closure 20 from a thermoplastic polymer and assembling them together i an initially assembled orientation defining a fully closed condition), the closure manufacturer will the ship the closed closure 20 to a containment system filler facility at another location where the container is either manufactured or otherwise provided, and where the container is filled with a product. However, for some applications, the components of the closure 20 could be shipped by the manufacturer in an unassembled condition to the filler facility.

The closed closure 20 would typically be shipped to a pouch manufacturer or bottler which would provide a containment system (e.g., a pouch or bottle, not illustrated), and the pouch manufacturer or bottler would install the closure 20 on the pouch or bottle. The particular containment system (e.g., pouch or bottle) may have already been filled with product. Alternatively, the closure 20 may be installed on an empty containment system which is subsequently filled with product through an open bottom end of the containment system which, is thereafter sealed closed.

If the container is a collapsible pouch (not illustrated), then the closure 20 may include a suitable conventional or special fitment portion (not illustrated in the Figures) that can be attached to the pouch as the pouch is being made and filled, or as the pouch is being made but before the pouch is subsequently filled through a base of the unassembled closure or through open regions of the pouch walls that are later sealed closed.

In the illustrated embodiment, the closure 20 is preferably provided as an assembly of a closing element 28 and receiving structure 24 that together define an article (i.e., the closure 20) for being attached to a system. The illustrated preferred embodiment of the closure 20 is especially suitable for being non-removably attached (e.g., mounted or installed) on a containment system in the form of a bottle. However, it will be appreciated that in some applications (not illustrated), it may be desirable for the closure 20 to be attached to a system in a manner that would allow a user to easily remove the closure 20 from the system without damaging the closure. Further, it may be desirable for the closure (or at least the receiving structure of the closure) to be formed as an integral, unitary part, or extension, of the system (e.g., a pouch or bottle) wherein such a unitary pari or extension also (i.e., simultaneously) defines an end structure (or other portion) of the system, per se.

The illustrated embodiment of the closure 20, if initially manufactured and provided separately from the containment, system, is adapted to be subsequently attached to a containment system at an opening in the system which provides access from the exterior environment to the containmen system interior and to the contents (e.g., a product contained therein) after a portion of the closure (e.g., the closing element 28) is manipulated (as described hereinafter) to open the closure.

Where the system is a bottle (not illustrated), the bottle typically includes an upper end portion or other suitable structure on some part of the bottle that defines the bottle mouth portion (i.e., a portion that defines an opening to the bottle interior), and such a mouth portion of a bottle typically has a cross-sectional configuration with which the closure 20 is designed to engage. The main body portion of the bottle may have a cross-sectional configuration that differs from the cross-sectional configuration of the bottle mouth portion. On the other hand, the bottle may instead have a substantially uniform shape along its entire length or height without any portion being of a different size or different cross-section. The bottle may have a generally rigid or flexible wall or walls whic can be grasped by the user.

The particular embodiment of the closure 20 illustrated in the Figures is especially suitable for use with a container (not illustrated) that has a particular attachment configuration around its opening and that is either a collapsible, flexible pouch (not illustrated) or a bottle (not illustrated) having a substantially flexible wall or walls that can be squeezed or deflected laterally inwardly by the user to increase the internal pressure within the bottle so as to force the product out of the bottle and through the opened closure. In a bottle with a flexible wall or walls, such a flexible wall or walls typically have sufficient, inherent resiliency so that when the squeezing forces are removed, the bottle walls return to the normal, unstressed shape.

In other applications it may be desirable to employ a generally rigid container, and to pressurize the container interior at selected times with a piston or other pressurizing system to force the product out through the open closure, or to reduce the exterior ambient pressure so as to suck the product out through the open closure.

On the other hand, if the closure 20 has a suitably large access passage that can be opened to communicate with the containment system interior through a large opening in the containment system, then such a closure can be used on a rigid or flexible containment system from which the contents (e.g., the product) can be accessed through the opened closure and removed by pouring out the contents, or by scooping out the contents, or by withdrawing the contents by hand or with an instrument, etc.

In other applications, contents might be added to the containment system through the receiving structure 24 of the closure 20 prior to a closing element 28 being installed over the receiving structure 24.

In still other applications for use with a system which may be a product containment system or other type of system, the closure 20 can function to permit or prevent, the egress or ingress of ambient atmosphere, or other substances, relative to the system on which the closure 20 is installed. In the illustrated embodiment, the closure 20 includes a specially configured closure body, base, or ^' receiving .structure-24 (the terms "body," "base," and "receiving structure" are used interchangeably herein). The closure 20 also includes the closing element 28 (which in the illustrated preferred embodiment may also be characterized as a "button") that is adapted to be installed on, and moved relative to, the receiving structure 24.

The receiving structure 24 and the closing element 28 are each preferably molded from a suitable thermoplastic material such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or the like. In a presently preferred form of the closure 20, the receiving structure 24 and closing element 28 are preferably each .molded separately as a unitary structure from high density polyethylene (HDPE). Other materials may be employed instead.

The closure receiving .structure 24 and closing element 28 would typically be separately molded by the manufacturer and assembled together to form the closure 20 for shipment to another location for installation on a system (e.g., a containment system such as a flexible pouch (not illustrated) or a rigid or flexible bottle (not illustrated)).

FIG. 1 illustrates the completed or assembled closure 20 with the closing element 28 installed on the receiving structure 24 to establish an initially closed condition. FIG. 1 may be characterized as also illustrating the combination of the closing element 28 and receiving structure 24 in an initially assembled orientation defining a closed condition that prevents communication through both the receiving structure 24 and closing element 28. The closure 20 can be subsequently operated by the user to establish an open condition to permit communication through both the receiving structure 24 and the closing element 28 ,

With reference to FIG. 2, the receiving structure 24 defines at least one access passage 32, 34 through the receiving structure 24 from which a product can be discharged, or into which a substance can be introduced. In the illustrated preferred embodiment, there are two different size access passages 32, 34— three smaller access passages 32, and three larger access passages 34. As explained hereinafter, the different size passages 32, 34 accommodate different flow rates or quantities of product. With reference to FIG. 7, the receiving structure 24 includes a lower, larger diameter side wall 40, a generally annular shoulder 42 at the top of the side wall 40, and a smaller diameter, raised deck 44 extending upwardly from the inner diameter of the annular shoulder 42. As can be seen in FIGS. 1 1 and 17, the width of the shoulder 42 is not circumferentially uniform. The raised deck 44 includes a generally cylindrical side wail 46 and a generally circular lop wall 48 at the upper end of the generally cylindrical side wall 46.

With reference to FIG. 8, the receiving structure side wall. 40 may be characterized as defining an opening or open end for receiving an upwardly projecting portion of a container (not illustrated), such as the neck of a bottle on which the closure 20 can be mounted after the receiving structure 24 and closing element 28 have been manufactured and assembled together by the closure manufacturer, in the illustrated preferred embodiment of the receiving structure 24, the receiving structure 24 is particularly adapted to be installed on an upwardly projecting neck of a container (not illustrated) wherein the lower portion of the neck of the container defines a radially outwardly extending bead (not illustrated) and wherein container neck further defines outwardly projecting anti -rotation ribs (not illustrated) which are located above the neck bead and are circumferentially spaced about portions of the container neck in an orientation with the length of each anti-rotation rib generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container neck. Such anti-rotation ribs on the container neck are used for preventing rotation of the receiving structure 24 when it, along with the closing element 28 mounted thereon, are installed on the container neck as explained below.

In the preferred illustrated embodiment of the receiving structure 24, the inside surface of the lower, large diameter side wall 40 (FIG. 8) defines a plurality of sets of anti-rotation ribs 54. As can be seen in FIG, 11 , there are four sets of anti-rotation ribs 54 on the Inside of the receiving structure side wall 40. Each set of anti-rotation ribs 54 includes three such anti-rotation ribs 54 that are equally spaced about a portion of the circumference of the side wall 40. The four sets of anti-rotation ribs 54 are preferably equally spaced about the inside circumference of the side wall 40. The anti -rotation ribs 54 are adapted to be engaged with the above-described anti-rotation ribs on the container (not illustrated) when the receiving structure 24 (along with the attached closing element 28) is mounted on the container neck. The anti-rotation ribs 54 on the receiving structure 24, when engaged with the container neck anti-rotation ribs (not illustrated), prevent relative rotation between the receiving structure 24 and the container (not illustrated). It will be appreciated that the anti-rotation ribs 54 need not be equally spaced about the side wall 40, that there may be fewer or more than three anti-rotation ribs 54 per set. and fewer or more than four sets.

The receiving structure lower side wail 40 also includes four radially inwardly extending lugs or beads 58 (FIGS. 8, 11 , and 16) which are adapted to snap-fit over the above-described bead on the container neck (not illustrated) below the container neck anti-rotation ribs (not illustrated). This forms a "snap-on" attachment of the receiving structure 24 to the container (not illustrated).

As explained hereinafter in more detail, other means of attaching the receiving structure 24 to a container (or to any other system) may be employed with appropriate modifications to the container or other system and with appropriate modifications to the receiving structure 24. The bottom of the closure receiving structure 24 can readily be provided with various alternative attachment configuration featm-es (not shown) suitable for a particular application— such as for a flexible pouch or a bottle having semi-rigid, resilient walls or rigid walls. Other means of providing a generally non-removable or removable attachment of the receiving structure 24 to the container (not illustrated) or other system could include a suitable threaded engagement, or a mechanical lock, spin welding of the closure to the system, mechanical staking, adhesive, etc. The detailed design and specific structure of the anti-rotation features and attachment features of the receiving structure 24 as incorporated in the preferred embodiment of the closure 20 illus trated herein form no part of the broad aspects of the present invention.

With reference to FIG, 7, the exterior surface of the receiving structure lower side wall 40 defines a number of indicia or icons to assist or aid the user in operation of the closure 20 as is described in detail hereinafter. In particular, there is a raised circular feature 60 which corresponds to, or designates, the "fully closed" condition of the closure. There is also a rimmed recess 66 corresponding to, or designating, an open condition in which the receiving structure smaller access passages 32 are open. Finally, there is a rimmed, larger diameter recess 70 which corresponds to, or designates, an open condition in which the larger diameter access passages 34 are open. These three indicia, icons, or designation features 60, 66 and 70 are selected by the user rotating the closing element 28 on the receiving structure 24 to a selected azimuthal orientation relative to one of the indicia 60, 66 and 70 as described in detail hereinafter.

With reference to FIGS. S and 1 6, the receiving structure 24 includes an internal plug seal member 76 which has a generally annular configuration and which projects downwardly from the underside of the annular shoulder 42. The plug seal 76 is adapted to be received on the inside top edge of the opening of the neck of a container (not illustrated) when the receiving structure 24 and the closing element 28 mounted thereon are properly installed on such a container. Typically, the plug seal 76 is sufficiently resilient to accommodate its partial insertion into the opening of the neck of the container (not illustrated) to form a leak-tight seal. Other types of seal configurations could be provided. In some applications, it may be possible to omit the plug seal 76, and to instead merely seal the top annular surface of the container neck (not illustrated) against a flat surface of the underside of the receiving structure shoulder 42. The detailed design and specific structure of such a container neck sealing feature (or even the complete omission thereof) forms no part of the broad aspects of the present invention.

With reference to FIGS. 8, 1 1 , and 12, a rib 78 projects downwardly from the underside of the receiving structure top wall 48. The rib 78 can be engaged by an assembly mechanism during automated assembly operations to orient the receiving structure 24 relative to the closing element 28 has the two components are assembled.

With reference to FIGS. 7, 10 and 16, the smaller diameter side wall 46 of the raised deck 44 defines three cams or cam followers, such as the illustrated cam tracks or channels 80 which are circumferentially spaced about the periphery of the side wall 46. In the illustrated preferred embodiment, each cam track or channel 80 has the same arcuate length, and the cam tracks or cliaimels 80 are equally spaced cireumferentially on the outside of the side wall 46. The cam tracks or channels 80 are adapted to receive cooperating lugs of the closing element 28 as described in detail hereinafter so as to accommodate rotation of the closing element 28 relative to the receiving structure' 24.

With reference to FIGS, 7 _f 9 and 14, the upper edge of the side wall 46 and outer peripheral edge of the top wail 48 together define three lead-in notches 86 which are uniformly cireumferentially spaced around the periphery of the top wall 48 and which each define a sloping guide surface or lead-in surface for use in initially installing the above-mentioned closing element lugs that function as cam followers in the cam tracks 80 as described in more detail hereinafter,

With reference to FIG. 7, an arcuate notch 90 is defined at the top of the receiving structure side wall 46 and outer peripheral edge of the receiving structure top wall 48. The notch 90 has a first end wall 90A and a second end wall 90D. Four locating ribs 92A, 92B, 92C and 92D project radially outwardly in the notch 90. The notch 90 is adapted to receive a tab on the closing element 28 (as described in detail hereinafter) wherein the closing element tab selectively interacts with the receiving structure locating ribs 92A, 92B, 92C, and 92D as described in detail hereinafter.

The space between the notch end wall 90A and the rib 92A is adapted to receive the previously mentioned closing element tab (described in detail hereinafter) to define a relative orientation of the receiving structure 24 and closing element 28 corresponding to a folly closed condition of the closure 20.

Similarly, the space between the receiving structure ribs 92B and 92C is adapted to receive the closing element tab upon rotation of the closing element 28 to an orientation relative to the receiving structure 24 which defines an open condition of the closure wherein the receiving structure small access passages 32 are open.

Similarly, the space between the receiving structure rib 92D and the receiving structure notch end wall 90D is adapted to receive the closing elemen tab upon rotation of the closing element 28 to an orientation relative to the receiving structure 24 which defines another open condition of the closure in which the receiving structure larger access passages 34 are open.

The operation of the closing element 28 in conjunction with the receiving structure 24 (to selectively establish a fully closed condition, a first open condition in which the receiving structure small access passages 32 are open, and a second open condition in which the receiving structure large access passages 34 are open), is described in detail hereinafter.

The center of the circular top wall 48 of the receiving structure 24 defines an upwardly or outwardly projecting post 100 which may be characterized as defining a central, longitudinal, rotational axis of the closing element 28 with respect to its rotation on, and relative to, the receiving structure 24 when the closing element 28 is mounted on the receiving structure 24 as described in detail hereinafter. It will be observed with respect to FIGS. 7 and 9 that the raised deck 44 is "off center" relative to the generally annular shoulder 42, The longitudinal axis of the receiving structure larger diameter, lower side wall 40 is parallel to, but laterally spaced from, the longitudinal axis of rotation defined by the raised deck post. 100. The raised deck 44 could be modified, if desired, to be coaxial ("centered") with the annular shoulder 42. in an alternate embodiment (not illustrated), the post 100 could be modified to provide axial retention of the closing, element 28, by, for example, employing one or more annular snap-fit beads to cooperate with snap-fit beads or grooves on the closing element 28.

As can be seen in FIGS. 8, 17, and 18, each access passage 32, 34 has a generally cylindrical configuration symmetrical about a longitudinal axis defining the center of the cylindrical configuration. The interior edge of each access passage 32, 34 is preferably rounded to define a convex radius. In alternate embodiments (not illustrated), the edge could be defined by a frustoconical surface or could even be merely a right angle comer.

With reference to FIGS, 16, 17, and 18, the receiving structure raised deck top wall 48 defines a plurality of seal members— seal members 1 12 around the smal ler access passages 32, and seal members 1 14 around the larger discharge access passages 34. In the preferred embodiment illustrated, each seal member 1 12 and 114 Is a unitary extension of the material defining the receiving structure top wall 48. In the presently preferred embodiment a illustrated in FIGS. 16, 17 and 18, each seal member 1 12 and 114 extends from the periphery of an associated access passage 32 and 34. respectively, with a decreasing thickness toward its distal end. The preferred cross-sectional configuration or shape of each seal member 1 12 and 114 may be characterized as tapering and arcuate as viewed in a cross-sectional plane that contains the longitudinal axis of the associated access passage 32 or 34. in the preferred embodiment illustrated, each seal member 1 12, 1 14 defines an opening to the associated access passage 32, 34, and that opening has a smaller cross-sectional flow area than the associated access passage (32, 34). In the illustrated preferred embodiment, the receiving structure 24 is preferably molded from a thermoplastic material so tha each seal member 1 12 and 114, being of reduced thickness' compared to the thickness of the top wall 48, is substantially more flexible and resilient, and is somewhat deflectable.

In the particular embodiment illustrated in the Figures, each seal member 1 12 and 1 14 may be characterized as being associated with only one of the receiving structure access passages 32 and 34, respectively. Further, all of the receiving structure access passages 32 and 34 are each associated with a separate one of the seal members 1 12 and 1 14, respectively. Further, each seal member 1 12 and 114 may be regarded as having a projecting configuration that extends peripherally around the associated access passage 32 and 34, respectively. Further, each seal member 112 and 1 14 may be characterized as being resiliently deflected from a pre~assembled conditio and compressively engaged with the closing element 28 (when the closing element 28 is assembled with, and mounted to, the receiving structure 24 as described in detail hereinafter) so as to establish an interference fit sliding seal between the receiving structure 24 and closing element 28. The interference fit sliding seal between the receiving structure 24 and closing element 28 functions when the receiving structure 24 and closing element 28 are in the closed condition, or one of the two open conditions, or any other partially open or closed condition between the open and closed conditions. -1.8-

In the illustrated preferred embodiment of the closure receiving structure 24, the seal members 1 12 and 1 14 are provided as a unitary extension of the top wall 48, However, it will be appreciated that in alternate embodiments (not illustrated), each such seal member may be provided as separately formed, but attached structure, such as an insert, oyermolded .structure, bi-injection molded structure, or other separate member that could be otherwise attached, such as by adhesive, mechanical staking, etc.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18, the distal end of each seal member 1 12 and 114 defines an access opening that has a smaller cross-sectional flow area than the associated access passage 32 and 34, respectively. As can be seen in FIGS. 17 and 18, in the preferred embodiment, each access passage 32, 34 is located in a uniformly thick portion of the top wall 48 which defines the access passages 32, 34. in a specific preferred embodiment, wherein the closure 20 is molded from polypropylene or polyethylene, the diameter of the top wall 48 is about 28.7 mm, the thickness of the top wall 48 is about 1.27 mm. Referring to FIG. 17, the preferred range of the diameter Dl of each smaller access passage 32 defined in the wall 48 is between 3.43 mm and 3.67 mm. The thickness Tl of the distal end of each seal member 1 12 is less than one-fifth the thickness of the top wal l 48 at the access passages 32, and the preferred range of Tl is between about 0.1.5 mm. and about 0.22 mm thick. The height HI of each seal member 1 12 extending from the top of the wall 48 in the axial direction is generally three ^' times the thickness Tl , and the preferred range of HI is between about 0.64 mm and about 0.71 mm. The length B 1 of each seal member 112 in the horizontal direction, from the exterior of the base of each seal member 112 to the distal end of each seal member 112, is just less than twice the height HI, and the preferred range of Bl is between about 1.12 mm and about 1 ,40 mm. The length L 1 of each sea! member I I 2 in the horizontal direction, from the interior of the base of each seal membe 1 12 to the distal end of each seal member 1 12, is around four times the thickness Tl of each seal member 1 12, and the preferred range of LI is between about 0.75 mm and about 0.89 mm. ίη the same specific preferred embodiment, with reference to FIG. 18, the preferred range of the diameter D2 of each larger access passage 34 defined in the wall 48 is between 4.06 mm and 4.31 mm. The thickness T2 of the distal end of each seal member 114 is less than one-fifth the thickness of the top wall 48 at the access passages 34, and the preferred range of T2 is between about 0.15 mm and about 0.22 mm thick. The height H2 of each seal member 114 extending irom the top of the wall 48 in the axial direction is generally three times the thickness Ύ2, and the preferred range of H2 is between about 0.64 mm and about 0.71 mm. The length B2 of each seal member 114 in the horizontal direction, from the exterior of the base of each seal m ember 1 14 to the distal end of each seal member 1 14, is just less than twice of the height H2, and the preferred range of B2 is between about 1.12 mm and about 1 .40 mm. The length L2 of each seal member 1 14 in the horizontal direction, from the interior of the base of each seal member 1 14 to the distal end of each seal member 114, is around four times the thickness T2 of each seal member 114, and the preferred range of L2 is between about 0.75 mm and about 0.89 mm.

With reference to FIG. 9, it can be seen that the receiving structure access passages 32 and 34 are arranged in pairs wherein each pair consists of one smaller diameter access passage 32 and one closely adjacent larger diameter access passage 34. Thus, with reference to FIG. 9, there are three such pairs of access passages 32 and 34. The shortest linear distance between each adjacent pair of access passages 32 and 34 is greater than the shortest linear distance between tire smaller access passage 32 and the larger access passage 34 in the same pair of access passages.

The particular number of access passages 32 and 34 may be varied. The spacing between the access passages 32 and 34 may be varied. The arrangement of the access passages 32 and 34 into pairs or into some other grouping or groupings may be varied. In some applications, it may be desired to have only one access passage of one particular size, in some applications, each access passage need not be circular and may have some other appropriate configuration suitable for the intended application. With reference to FIG. 5, the closing element 28 or button includes a side ^' wall 120 and end wall 124 spanning a distal portion of the side wall 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the closing element 28 is generally cylindrical in shape, with the side wall 120 being substantially circular. It will be appreciated, however, that the closing element 28 need not have a generally cylindrical shape and may further have any shape defined by a number of pdssible continuous or discontinuous perimeters of the side wall 120.

With reference to FIG. 6, the side wail 120 of closing element 28 may be characterized as defining an opening or open end for receiving a portion of the raised deck 44 (not visible in FIG. .6) of the receiving structure 24 (not visible in FIG. 6). In the illustrated preferred embodiment of the closing element.28, the closing element 28 i particularly adapted to receive the generally cylindrical raised deck 44.

In the illustrated preferred embodiment of the closing element 28, the open end of the side wall 120 defines a plurality .of alignment notches 128 (FIG. 6). There are two alignment notches 128 in the side wall 120, as illustrated in FIG. 24, The alignment notches 128 are spaced symmetrically about at least one plane that is taken through the center of closing element 28 and is normal to the end wall 124. The alignment notches 128 are adapted to be engaged by an alignment member (not illustrated) of the assembly equipment that can be used for assembling the closmg element 28 and receiving structure 24. The engagement of the alignment member with the alignment notches 128 allows for control of the orientation of the closmg element 28 with respect to the receiving structure 24.

With reference to FIG. 6, the closing element 28 has one or more cam follo wers, such as lugs 132. extending inwardly from the side wail 120. In the preferred illustrated embodiment, as best seen in FIG. 24, there are ^' three lugs 132 spaced equidistantly about the circumference of the side wall 120. Each lug 132 is adapted to engage one of the cam tracks or channels 80 of the receiving structure 24, and this engagement permits selective control of the rotational position of the closing element 28 with respect to the receiving structure 24. The lugs 132 further function to axially retain the closing eiement 28 with respect to the receiving structure 24, whereby the engagement of the lugs 132 with axially inward and axially outward edges of the channel 80 prevents axial movement of the closing element 28.

As shown in FIG. 21, the lugs 132 of the preferred embodiment of the closing element 28 each has a sloping surface or guide surface 136 on the most axially and radially inward portion of the lug 132. The lugs 132 have some resilience, and can be deflected radially outwardly a small amount. The guide surfaces 136 accommodate the radially outward camming of the lugs 132 over the top of the receiving structure 24 during assembly as the receiving structure 24 and closing element 28 are moved axially against each other, in particular, the sloping guide surfaces 136 act to decrease the force required to assemble the closing element 28 with the recei ving structure 24, whereby the guide surfaces 136 slide along the lead-in notches 86 of the receiving structure 24 to the channels 80, and the lugs 132 snap into the channels 80.

With reference to FIGS. 6, 21 , and 24, the closing element 28 includes a tab 140 extending downwardly from the end wall 124 and also extending inwardly from the side wall 120. The tab 140 is adapted to engage the locating ribs 92A, 92B, 92C ₅ and 92D and also the notch end walls 90 A and 90D on the exterior portion of the receiving structure 24 in order to rotationaHy position the closing element 28 in selected orientations relative to the receiving structure 24 as will next be explained in detail.

Preferably, when the closing element 28 is located in the initially assembled orientation with the receiving element 24, the tab 140 is positioned between locating rib 92 A and the end wall 90 A of notch 90, and this position defines the initially fully closed condition of the closure 20.

Similarly, the closing element 28 can be rotated with respect to the receiving element 24 away from the initial fully closed condition so that the tab 140 is selectively positioned between locating ribs 92B and 92C. When the tab 140 is positioned between locating ribs 92B and 92C, the closure 20 is in a first open condition wherein only the smaller access passages 32 are open by virtue of their alignment with the closing element dispensing apertures 160 as described hereinafter. Likewise, the closing element 28 can be further rotated with respect to the receiving element 24 away from the initial fully closed condition so that the tab 140 is selectively positioned between locating rib 92D and the end wall 90D of notch 90. When the tab 140 is thus positioned between locating rib 92D and the end wall 90D, the closure 20 is in another, second open condition wherein only the larger access passages 34 of the receiving structure are open by virtue of their alignment with the closing element dispensing apertures 160 as described in detail hereinafter. The operation of the closure 20 (constituting the assembly of the closing element 28 and receiving structure 24) is discussed in more detail hereinafter,

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 20, the side wall 120 of the closing e lement 28 preferably has a recess 144 extending from a bottom edge of the closing element 28 to the end wail 124. In the illustrated preferred embodiment, the recess 144 further has a plurality of projections 148 extending outwardly from the side wall 120. The recess 144 and the projections .148 function to provide a frictional engagement area for

accommodating the finger of a use of the closure 20.

Preferably, the recess 144 further has a pointer or positional indicium 150 for indicating the opened or closed position of the closure 20. When the user rotates the closing element 28, the positional indicium 150 can be aligned with, or centered above, one of the following: (1) the raised circular feature 60 to indicate the initial, fully closed position of the closure 20, (2) the rimmed smaller diameter recess 66 to indicate the first open position of the closure 20, and (3) the rimmed larger diameter recess 70 to indicate the second open position of the closure 20. It will be understood that the number, shape, and location of the recess 144, projections 148, and positional indicium 150 may vary depending on the application.

Still referring to FIGS. 5 and 20, the closing element end wall 124 preferably has a plurality of directional indicia 152, 153, 154, and 155 for represe ting relative rotation of the closing element 28 with respect to the receiving structure 24. In the illustrated preferred embodiment, the directional indicia 152, 153, 154, and 155 have the form of recesses in the end wail 124 and are further located proximal the side wall recess 144. Preferably, directional indicium 152 has the form of a closed padlock and is located proximal one end of the recess 144 for representing a clockwise rotation of the closing element 28 with respect to the receiving structure 24 (as viewed from above the closing element 28). Further, in the preferred embodiment of the closing element 28, the directional indicium 153 has the form of an arrow poinimg in a clockwise rotation of the closing element 28 with respect to the receiving structure 24 (as viewed from above the closing element 28).

Preferably, directional indicium 154 has the form of an open padlock and is located proximal the other end of the recess 144 for representing a counter-clockwise rotation of the closing element. 28 with respect to the recei ing structure 24 (as viewed from above the closing element 28). Further, in the preferred embodiment of the closing element 28, the directional indicium 155 has the form of an arrow pointing in a counter-clockwise rotation of the closing element 28 with respect to the receiving structure 24 (as viewed from above the closing element 28).

In the illustrated preferred embodiment, the two indicia 152 and 153 representing clockwise rotation of the closing element 28, which have the form of a closed padlock and an arrow, respectively, are for indicating the direction of rotation of the closing element 28 toward the fully-closed position. As can further be seen in FIGS. 5 and 20, the two indicia 154 and 155 representing counterclockwise rotation of the closing element 28, which have the form of an open padlock and arrow, respectively, are for indicating the direction of rotation of the closing element 28 toward the first and second open positions, it will be understood that the number, shape, and location of the directional indicia 152, 1 3, 154, and 155 may vary depending on the application. Directional indicia 152, 153, 154, and 155 may be raised features extending outwardly from the end wall 124. The indicia may even be omitted altogether in some applications.

Referrin to FIGS. 5, 6, and 20, the closing element end wall 124 preferably has a pivot aperture 156 extending through the center of the end wall 124. The pivot aperture 156 is adapted to receive the post 100 of the receiving structure 24. The pivot aperture 156 acts to retain the closing element 28 in the radial direction with respect to the receiving structure 24, and the pivot aperture 156 accommodates rotation of the closing element. 28 about a central axis of the post 100.

As can he seen in FIGS. 5, 6, and 20, the end wall .124 has at least one dispensing aperture 160 extending through the end wall 124, and in the illustrated preferred embodiment, there are a plurality of such dispensing apertures 160. The closing element 28 can be rotated to place each dispensing aperture 160 i communication with either one of the smaller access passages 32 or one of the larger access passages 34 of the receiving structure 24 (as will be discussed in detail hereinafter).

In the illustrated preferred embodiment of the closing element 28, there are three dispensing apertures 1.60 located equidistantly along a circular locus that is centered with the closing element 28. The particular number and size of the dispensing apertures 160 may be varied. Furthermore, the spacing between the dispensing apertures 160 may be varied. The arrangement of the dispensing apertures 160 into groupings of the same or differing sizes ma also vary. In some applications, each dispensing aperture 160 need not be circular and may have some other appropriate configuration, such as elongate or polygonal, suitable for the intended application.

The dispensing apertures 1.60 are preferably rounded at the most axially inward edge in order to prevent the seal members 112 , 114 from catching on the underside of the end wall 124, as will be discussed in detail hereinafter.

With reference to FIGS. 31 and 32, the closure 20 is illustrated with the closing element 28 installed on the receiving structure 24 in the initial fully closed condition, in the illustrated preferred embodiment, there is a space or gap 164 bet ween a portion of the underside of the closing element end wall 124 and the retaining structure raised deck end wail or top wall 48. In the fully closed condition, each dispensing aperture 160 is not in communication with any access passages 32, 34 because the underside of the end wall 124 fully covers and occludes all of the access passage 32. 34 as described in more detail hereinafter. Further, in the fully closed condition of the closure 20, the end wall 124 extends across all of the seal members 1 12, 114, and also deflects the seal members 112, 1 14 so as to create a substantially contmuous compressive or sliding seal between the receiving structure 24 and the closing member 28 as described in more detail hereinafter. In the preferred embodiment, the ontinuous .sliding seal is substantially air tight and is designed to elim inate, or at least minimize, leakage of the dispensed contents of the container into the gap 164.

With reference to FIGS, 30 and 33, the closure 20 is illustrated with the closing element 28 installed upon the receiving structure 24, and with the closing element 28 positioned in a first open condition whereby the dispensing apertures 160 are each aligned with, and in communication with, a separate, associated access passage 32. Thus, in the first open condition illustrated, the underside of the end wall 124 does not occlude the access passages 32. However, in the first open condition of the closure 20, the end wall 124 nevertheless still continues to compress or deflect the seal members 1 12 (as well as the seal members 114), thereby maintaining the continuous compressive, sliding seal between the receiving structure 24 and the closing member 28. In the illustrated preferred embodiment, the continuous sliding seal continues to remain substantially air tight in the first open condition of the closure 20 and is designed to prevent, or at least minimize, leakage of the dispensed contents of the container into the ga 164.

It will be understood that the closing element 28 can be rotated to establish the second fully open condition (not illustrated) wherein the dispensing apertures 160 are in communication with the associated larger access passages 34 in a manner that is analogous to, or functionally equivalent to, the previously discussed first open condition. In the second fully open condition, the underside of the end wall 1.24 does not occlude the larger access passages 34. However, in the second open condition of the closure 20, the end wall 124 continues to compress the seal members 114 (as well as the seal members 1 12) so as to maintain the continuous compressive, sliding seal between the receiving structure 24 and the closing member 28. In the preferred embodiment, the continuous, sliding seal continues to remain substantially air tight in the illustrated second open condition of the closure 20 and is designed to prevent, or at least minimize, leakage of the dispensed contents of the container into the gap 164.

Operation of the preferred embodiment of the closure 20 will next, be discussed in more detail.

With reference to FIGS. 25, 26, and 29, the closure 20 is illustrated in the initial fully closed condition wherein the closing element 28 is. rotationally positioned such that the dispensing apertures 160 are not in communication with any of access passages 32, 34 (only one of the larger access passages 34 is visible in FIG. 29). As best viewed in FIG. 26, in the fully closed condition of the closure 20 each of the three lugs 132 of the closing element 28 is disposed within, and retained within, one of the three channels 80 of the receiving structure 24 (only one of the lugs 132 being visible in FIG. 26).

As can further be seen in FIG. 26, the closing element 28 is axially retained on the receiving structure 24 as is next explained. The distance between the underside of the closing element end wall 124 and the axially outermost flat surface (upper surface) of the lugs 132 is less than the distance between the axially outermost flat surface (i.e., upper surface) of the channels 80 and the axially ou termost portion of the seal members 1 12, 114 as measured in the initially, as-molded, unassembled condition of the receiving structure 24. Thus, when the receiving structure 24 and closing element 28 are assembled with the lugs 132 in the channels 80, the difference in distances causes the underside of end wall 124 of the closing element 28 to press axially inwardly upon the seal members 112, .1 14 as the lugs 132 are forced against the axially outermost flat surface of the channels 80 (i.e., the upper surface of the channels 80) to create a clamp-like assembl of the closing element 28 and the receiving structure 24.

With reference to FIGS. 2 and 29, in the initial, fully closed condition, the closing element tab 140 (FIG, 29) is located within the arcuate notch 90 (FIG. 2), and more particularly, the tab 140 is located between the first end wall 90A (visible in FIG. 2) and locating rib 92A. The location of the tab 140 between the first end wall 90A and locating rib 92A reieasably retains the closing element 28 in the particular rotational position relative to the receiving structure 24 corresponding to the initial, fully closed condition. The initial, fully closed condition of the closure 20 is preferably the condition of the closure 20 as assembled by the manufacturer, and subsequently installed upon a system, such as a container.

Referring now to FIG. 1 , in the initial fully closed condition of closure 20, the positional indicium or pointer 150 of the closing element 28 is located in alignment with , or proximal to, the raised circular feature 60, and this indicates that the closure 20 is in the initial fully closed condition and that no stored contents of the container can be dispensed through the apertures 160.

FIGS. 31 and 32 provide a simplified illustration of the engagement between the closing member 28 and the seal members 1 12 in the fully closed condition. As can be seen in the fully closed condition, the axially inward surface of the end wall 124 contacts the upper surface of each seal member 1 12 (as well as each seal member 1 14, (not. visible in FIGS. 31 and 32)). The contact of the end wall 124 with each seal member 1 12 (as well as with each seal member 1 14 (not visible in FIGS. 3 i and 32)) creates a sliding seal between the closing element 28 and the receiving structure 24. Although it is not discernible in the Figures, there is slight deflection of the seal members 112 (and of the seal members 1 14) as a result of the compressive force of the end wail 124. Each seal member 114 (not visible in FIGS. 31 and 32) Is also engaged, compressed, and deflected in substantially the same manner as described above for each seal member 1 12. It will further be appreciated that the deflection of the seal members 112 and 1 14 will vary depending on the application, and the deflection may be controlled by altering one or more of at least the following parameters: the material properties of the closing element 28 and/or the receiving structure 24; the thickness, shape and size of the seal members 1 12 and 1 14: the clamping force generated between the closing element lugs 132 and the receiving structure 24; the thickness of the end wall 124; the size of the gap 164; and other dimensions and factors.

The inventors have discovered that, in the fully closed condition, the unique geometry of the seal members 112, 1 14 in compressive contact with the end wall 124 is particularly suitable for eliminating, or at least minimizing, leakage, escape, or ejection of stored contents of a container utilizing the closure 20. This sealing also prevents or minimizes the escape of contents into the gap 164 during manipulation of the closure 20 and also during storage, shipping, or typical pressurization (e.g., squeezing) of the container.

Preferably, with reference to FIG. 1. a user who wants to initially open the closure 20 will first grip the closing element 28 or press a finger against the recess 144 in order to turn the closing element 28 counter-clockwise with respect to the receiving ^■ structure 24, as viewed from above the closure 20. The projections 148 further aid the user to grip, or frictionally engage, the closing elemen 28 so as to impose a rotational force or torque on the closing element 28. The arrow 155 and opened lock 154 indicia of the closing element 28 serve to further indicate the direction of rotation of the closing element 28 that is required to open the closure 20.

In the illustrated preferred embodiment, rotation of the closing element 28 counter-clockwise about 40 degrees away from the initially fully closed condition will place the closure in a first open condition (FIG. 3). In the first open condition, the positional indicium or pointer 1 0 of the closing element 28 will be proxim al, or aligned with, the rimmed recess 66 of the receiving structure 24. The alignment of the pointer 150 with the rimmed recess 66 indicates to the user that the dispensing apertures 160 are in communication with the smaller access passages 32 (FIGS. 30 and 33).

With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, in the first open condition the closing element tab 140 (not visible in FIGS. 3 and 4) is located within the arcuate notch 90 (FIG. 4), and more particularly, the tab .140 is located between the locating ribs 92B and 92C (FIG. 4). The location of the tab 140 between the locating ribs 92B and 92C releasably retains the closing element 28 in the selected rotational position with respect to the receiving structure 24. The movement of the tab 140 across and past the rib 92B preferably creates a clicking sound due to the temporary radial interference of those structures wherein one or both of those structures temporarily deflect elastically and then snap back to the imdeflected position. The clicking sound indicates that the closure 20 is in the first open condition whereby contents may be discharged through the access passages 32 and apertures 160,

FIGS. 30 and 33 provide a simplified illustration of the interference of the closing member 28 and the seal members 1 12 in the first open condition of closure 20. As can be seen, in the first open condition, the axiai ly inward surface of the end wall 124 continues to contact the upper surface of each seal member 112 (as well as each seal member 1 14). The engagement of the end wall 124 with each seal member 1 12 (as well as with the seal members 1 14) maintains a sliding seal between the closing element 28 and the receiving structure 24 as the closing elemen 28 is rotated and also when the closing element 28 is stationary. The sliding seal accommodates communication between the dispensing apertures 160 and the smaller access passages 32 in the first open condition of the closure 20, and allows for dispensing of the stored contents from the container. In the first open configuration, the larger access passages 34 (not visible in FIGS. 30 and 33) remain fully occluded by the engagement of the end wall 124 with the seal members 1 14. Although not illustrated, in the first open configuration of the closure 20, it will be appreciated that there is some slight deflection of each seal member 1 12 (and each seal member .1 14) as a result of the compressive force of the end wall 124.

The inventors have discovered that, in the first open condition, the unique geometry of the seal members 112, 114 in compressive contact (i.e., engagement) with the end wall 124 is particularly suitable for eliminating, or at least minimizing, leakage, escape, or ejection of stored contents into the gap 164 during dispensing of the stored contents.

In the preferred embodiment, as the user turns the closing element 28 counter-clockwise about 40 degrees away from the first open condition, the closure 20 will be placed in a second open condition (not illustrated). In the second open condition, the positional indicium or pointer 150 of the closing element 28 will be aligned with, or proximal to, the larger diameter rimmed recess 70 of the receiving structure 24 (not illustrated). The alignment of the pointer 150 with the larger diameter rimmed recess 70 indicates io the user that the dispensing apertures 160 are in communication with the larger diameter access passages 34 (not visible in FIGS. 30-33).

With reference to FIG. 7, in the second open condition the closing element tab 140 (not visible in FIG 7) is located within the arcuate notch 90, and more particularly, the tab 140 is located between the locating rib 92D and the notch second end wall 90D. The location of the tab 140 between the locating rib 92D and the notch second end wall 90D releasahly retains the closing element 28 (not illustrated) in the selected rotational position relative to the receiving struct ure 24. The mo vement of the tab 140 across and past the rib 92D preferably creates a clicking sound due to the temporary radial interference of those structures wherein one or both of those structures temporarily deflect elastically and then snap hack to the undefJected position. The clicking sound indicates to a user that the closure 20 is in the second open condition.

Although not illustrated, the interference of the closing member 28 and the seal members 1 12, 1 14 in the second open condition of closure 20 are identical to thai discussed above with respect to the first open condition. Namely, in the second open condition, the axially inward surface of the end wall 124 continues to contact the upper surface of the seal members 1 12, I 14. The contact of the end wall 124 with the seal members 112, 1 14 maintains the seal between the closing element 28 and the receiving structure 24 while permitting communication between the dispensing apertures 160 and the larger access passages 34 for dispensing of the stored contents of the container. Although not il lustrated, in the second open configuration of the closure 20, it will be appreciated there is a slight deflection of the seals 1 12, 114 as a result of the compressive force exerted by the end Avail 124.

The inventors have discovered that, in the second open condition, the unique geometry of the seal members 1 12, 1 14 in compressive contact with the end wall 124 is particularly suitable for eliminating, or at least minimizing, leakage, escape, or ejection of stored contents into the gap 164 during dispensing of the stored contents.

In order for the user to return the illustrated preferred embodiment of the closure 20 from the second open condition to either the first open configuration or the fully closed configuration, die user rotates the closing element 28 in the clockwise direction (as viewed from above) indicated by the arrow 153 and closed lock 152 indicia of the closing element 28. Turning the closing element 28 clockwise about 40 degrees away from the second open condition will place the closure in the aforementioned first open condition (FIG. 3). The movement of the tab 140 (not illustrated) against and past the rib 92C preferably creates a clicking sound to indicate that the closure 20 has returned to a different condition (e.g., the first open condition).

It will be appreciated that the initially fully closed condition and the two open conditions (i.e., dispensing conditions) of the closure 20 need not be separated by 40 degrees, and may be separated by any amount of rotation of the closing element 28 with respect to the receiving structure 24. Further, according to one broad aspect of the invention, there may be just one open configuration of the closure 20, or there may be any number of open conditions depending on die application.

According to the broad aspects of the present invention, although the provision. of ^' the receiving structure locating ribs 92A, 92B, 92C and 92D and the co-acting closing element tab 140 to generate a sound and/or tactile sensation that is particularly noticeable to the user is preferred, that is not a necessary requirement or essential feature of the broad aspects of the invention.

Although the illustrated preferred embodiment of the closure 20 employs different size access passages 32, 34 to accommodate dispensing at different flow rates or dispensing different quantities of product for a specific dispensing actio o operation, such a feature is not a required or essential feature of the broad aspects of the invention.

Although the illustrated preferred embodiment of the closure 20 is described with reference to dispensing a product from a container, it is to be realized that one broad aspect of the invention contemplates the use of the receiving structure 24 and closing element 28 on a system to control ingress, in-flow, or loading of substance from outside of the closing element 28 to the interior of a system on which the receiving structure 24 is mounted or otherwise connected. Many, but not necessarily all, of the various combinations of features of the present invention can be summarized in the following statements or aspects numbered 1-10;

1. A combination of a recei ving structure and a closing element which together in an initially assembled orientation have a closed condition that prevents

communication through both the receiving structure and the closing element, but which can be subsequently operated to establish an open condition to permit communication through both the receiving structure and the closing element, comprising:

said receiving structure that defines at least one access passage extending through said receiving structure;

said closing element that defines at least one dispensing aperture extending through said closing element; and

at least one seal member thai (a) is carried by one of said receiving structure, and said closing element, (b) has a projecting configuration that extends peripherally around said one of said receiving structure at least one access passage and said closing element at least one dispensing aperture, and (c) is resiliently deflected from a pre-assemhled condition and compressively engaged with the other of said receiving structure and closing element so as to establish an interference fit sliding seal between said receiving structure and closing element.

2. The combination in accordance with aspect 1 in which

said combination can be operated to permit communication between the exterior and interior of a system through an opening in such a system; and

said receiving structure is either: (A) a separate structure that can be attached to such a system at such a system opening and that defines said at least one access passage through said receiving struciure for communicating through such a system opening with the system interior; or (B) an integral structure that is a unitary portion of such a system and that includes said at least one access passage through said integral structure (24) to define such a system opening.

3. The combination in accordance with any of the preceding aspects in which said receiving structure is a body defining said at least one access passage; and said system is a container defining said system opening; and

said body is separate from, but attachable to, said containe at said opening.

4. The combination in accordance with any of the preceding aspects in which said at least, one access passage has a cylindrical configuration symmetrical about a longitudinal axis; and

said at least one seal member has annular cross section in a transverse plane that is perpendicular- to said axis.

5. The combination in accordance with any of the preceding aspects in which said at least one access passage has a cylindrical configuration symmetrical about a longitudinal axis; and

said at least one seal member has a tapering, arcuate cross-section as viewed in a cross-sectional plane that contains said axis.

6. The combination in accordance with any of the preceding aspects in which said at least one seal member defines an opening to said at least one access passage wherein that seal member opening has a smaller cross-sectional flow area than said at least one access passage.

7. The combination in accordance with any of the preceding aspects in which said receiving structure has a top wall which has a uniformly thick portion defining the periphery of said at least one access passage; and

the thickness of the distal end of said at least one seal member is less than one-fifth of the thickness of said uniformly thick portion of said top wail.

8. The combination in accordance with any of the preceding aspects in which said receiving structure defines one of a cam and cam follower; and

said closing element defines the other of said cam. and cam follower engaged with said one of said cam and cam follower.

9. The combination in accordance with any of the preceding aspects in which said receiving structure defines

(1) a notch having a first end wall and a second end wall, and (2) a pluralityof spaced-apart ribs extending outwardly into said notch; said closing element has a tab recei ved in said notch for engaging said notch end walls and said ribs as said closing element is rotated on, and relative to, said receiving structure; and

said tab and/or said ribs are sufficiently resilient so as to temporarily deform ineiastically to accommodate the movement of said tab past said ribs,

10. The combination in accordance with any of the preceding aspects in which said receiving structure and closing element are relatively rotatable about an axis to at least a first, second, and third orientation relative to each other:

said receiving structure defines a plurality of access passages which include at least one larger access passage and at least one smaller access passage;

said receiving structure defines first, second, and third indicia corresponding to, respectively, said first orientation which defines a first condition in which all of said access passages are closed, said second orientation which defines a second condition in which only said smaller access passages are open, and said third orientation which defines a third condition in which only said larger access passages are open; and

said closing element defines a pointer indicium which can be aligned with a selected one of said receiving structure first, second, and third indicia.

It will be readily observed from the foregoing detailed description of the invention and from the illustrations thereof that numerous other variations and modifications may be effected without departing from the true spirit and scope of the novel concepts or principles of this invention.