TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

The presently disclosed subject matter is related to the field of pour spouts for containers. In particular, the presently disclosed subject matter is related to the field of connecting pour spouts to containers, using spigots.

BACKGROUND

Pour spouts for containers have been well known for the last few decades. In addition, it is well known that the process of connecting (e.g., gluing, ultrasonic welding) a pour spout to a container (e.g., a paper board carton used distributing and dispensing beverages such as juice and milk, a beverage bag, a vessel, flexible packaging, or any other type of containers for dispensing substance) involves using a spigot which is temporarily introduced into the pour spout in order to hold the pour spout during the process of connection by a filling machine.

There are different types of pour spouts and respective spigots. During the connection of a pour spot to a container, the pour spout is inserted into a dispensing hole formed in a wall of the container, from the inside of the container. Before or during the insertion and/or connection of the pour spout to the container's wall, the spigot is introduced into the pour spout from a proximal end (i.e., a lower end) thereof in order to hold the pour spout. After the connection is accomplished, the spigot is dismounted from the pour spout. It is thus appreciated that the spigot and the pour spout have to be structured so as to allow, on the one hand, to securely hold the pour spout before and during its connection to the container, and on the other hand, so as to be easily removed therefrom when the connection is accomplished.

Different techniques for detachably mounting a pour spout on a spigot were developed in the last two decades.

One such technique is disclosed, for example, in US 6,464,096. This reference discloses a fitment for use as a pour spout for a paper carton or flexible bag for liquids and powders having a flange which may be welded around a hole in the carton or bag.

A further example is disclosed in US 2004/0245262 which discloses a closure underpart with a tubular sleeve and a fixing flange arranged on the outside of the tubular sleeve, at least one projection being provided on the inside of the tubular sleeve, which serves to hold the closure underpart on a spike inserted into the tubular sleeve when fixing to a vessel wall.

Another example is disclosed in WO 2010/106327 in which there is disclosed a spigot of a pour spout fitment applicator that includes a ridge extending therearound. The pour spout of a fitment includes a series of ribs extending longitudinally of the spout and protruding from an internal peripheral surface of the spout and distributed about that surface, the ridge being of a maximum radius from a longitudinal axis of the spigot greater than the radii from that axis of the radially innermost portions of the respective ribs, and the spigot being insertable into the pour spout sufficiently far that radially outermost portions of the ridge become located beyond the radially innermost portions of the ribs.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

According to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a combination of a spigot, a first pour spout and a second pour spout different from said first pour spout. The spigot comprises a spigot body formed on an external surface thereof with a first spigot portion and a second spigot portion. The first pour spout comprises a first internal surface having a first spout portion and configured for releasably engaging said first spigot portion for detachably mounting said spigot within said first pour spout. The second pour spout comprises a second internal surface having a second spout portion and configured for releasably engaging said second spigot portion for detachably mounting said spigot within said second pour spout.

According to a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a spigot for use with a first pour spout or with a second pour spout different from said first pour spout. The first pour spout comprises a first internal surface having a first spout portion, and the second pour spout comprises a second internal surface having a second spout portion. The spigot comprises a spigot body formed on an external surface thereof with a first spigot portion and a second spigot portion; wherein said first spout portion is configured for releasably engaging said first spigot portion for detachably mounting said spigot within said first pour spout, and said second spout portion is configured for releasably engaging said second spigot portion for detachably mounting said spigot within said second pour spout.

According to a third aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method for using a spigot with a first pour spout or with a second pour spout different from said first pour spout, said spigot comprising a spigot body formed on an external surface thereof with a first spigot portion and a second spigot portion; said first pour spout comprising a first internal surface having a first spout portion; said second pour spout comprising a second internal surface having a second spout portion, said method comprising steps of:

selecting a pour spout from said first pour spout and said second pour spout; mounting said spigot within said selected pour spout, thereby causing said first spout portion to releasably engage said first spigot portion, or said second spout portion to releasably engage said second spigot portion; and

dismounting said selected pour spout from said spigot.

The spigot according to the first, second and third aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter can be used when there is a need to use more than one type of pour spout on the same filling machine. For example, this need may exist during a transitional period, when a manufacturer would like to try using a new type of pour spout, however, still be able to use the old pour spout, when needed, all without replacing the spigot on the filling machine for each type of pour spout. Alternatively, this need may exist for example when a manufacturer would like to use any time two or more types of pour spouts, without replacing the spigot. It should be indicated that replacement of a spigot on the filling machine can be relatively time consuming, tiresome and can significantly reduce productivity. Therefore, instead of using different spigots for different types of pour spouts, a universal spigot according to the first, second and third aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter can be used. The spigot according to these aspects can be used for retaining two or more different types of pour spouts, without the need to replace one spigot with another spigot on the filling machine when changing its work from one to another type of pour spout. This ability of the spigot is provided by two different portions thereof, i.e., a first spigot portion and a second spigot portion, each exploited for releasably engaging its respective pour spout.

It is appreciated that the meaning of the term 'different' with respect to pour spouts, includes two pour spouts which are almost identical to each, however, with minor differences of their diameter at the spigot portion at which they engage the spigot. These differences can take place when pour spouts are manufactured by using multiple different moulds, and can result in improper mounting of one of the types of the pour spouts on a spigot. In this case, instead of using a known in the art standard spigot, a universal spigot according to the first, second and third aspects can be used, for engaging the 'problematic' pour spout, at another portion of the spigot.

For purpose of convenience, as used in the accompanying claims, the terms "upper", "lower", "proximal", "distal", and "into", refer to the position and the orientation of the pour spouts and the spigots shown in the accompanying drawings. It is understood that during manufacture, attachment and use, the parts may be positioned in other orientations.

In addition, the terms 'minimal' and 'maximal' and the phrases 'minimal diameter' and 'maximal diameter' should be interpreted as local minimum and local maximum of a geometric structure.

Any one or more of the following features, designs and configurations can be incorporated in the spigot and the different pour spouts of the first, second and third aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, independently or in combination thereof:

The first spigot portion can comprise either at least one first spigot groove or at least one first spigot protrusion, and said first spout portion can respectively comprise either at least one first spout protrusion configured to be received in said at least one first spigot groove or at least one first spout groove configured for receiving said at least one first spigot protrusion, for snappingly mounting the spigot within the first pour spout;

A minimal diameter of a circle inscribed within the first pour spout at the first spout portion can be smaller than at least one maximal diameter of at least one circle inscribing the spigot at the first spigot portion for allowing the first spigot portion and the first spout portion to snappingly engage each other. This relationship between the diameters of the spigot and the first spout can take place when the first spigot portion is a groove defined between an upper shoulder and a lower shoulder, while the upper shoulder has one maximal diameter of a circle inscribing it, and the lower shoulder has another maximal diameter of another circle inscribing it;

The first spigot portion can comprise one of: a flat spigot portion, at least one first spigot groove, and at least one first spigot protrusion, and the first spout portion can comprise one of: a flat spout portion, at least one first spout groove, and at least one first spout protrusion, for frictionally mounting the spigot within the first pour spout;

A minimal diameter of a circle inscribed within the first pour spout at the first spout portion can be smaller than a maximal diameter of a circle inscribing the spigot at the first spigot portion, for allowing said first spigot portion and the first spout portion to frictionally engage each other;

The second spigot portion can comprise either at least one second spigot groove or at least one second spigot protrusion, and the second spout portion can respectively comprise either at least one second spout protrusion configured to be received in the at least one second spigot groove or at least one second spout groove configured for receiving the at least one second spigot protrusion, for snappingly mounting the spigot within the second pour spout;

At least one minimal diameter of at least one circle inscribed within the second pour spout at the second spout portion can be smaller than a maximal diameter of a circle inscribing the spigot at the second spigot portion for allowing the second spigot portion and the second spout portion to snappingly engage each other. This relationship between the diameters of the spigot and the second spout can take place when the second spout portion has one or more grooves each defined between an upper shoulder and a lower shoulder, while the upper shoulder has one minimal diameter of an inscribed circle, and the lower shoulder has another minimal diameter of another inscribed circle, and the second spigot portion is a protrusion;

The second spigot portion can comprise one of: a flat spigot portion, at least one second spigot groove, and at least one second spigot protrusion, and the second spout portion can comprise one of: a flat spout portion, at least one second spout groove, and at least one second spout protrusion, for frictionally mounting the spigot within the second pour spout;

A minimal diameter of a circle inscribed within the second pour spout at the second spout portion can be smaller than a maximal diameter of a circle inscribing the spigot at the second spigot portion, for allowing the second spigot portion and the second spout portion to frictionally engage each other;

The spigot can have a proximal end, a distal end and a spigot longitudinal axis, and the first spigot portion and the second spigot portion can be disposed consecutively along the spigot longitudinal axis;

At least one of the first spigot portion, the second spigot portion, the first spout portion and the second spout portion can be annular;

Each one of the first spigot portion, the second spigot portion, the first spout portion and the second spout portion can comprise one of: one or more ridges, one or more ribs, one or more protrusions, one or more grooves, one or more flat inclined surfaces, and one or more clamping elements;

The second internal surface can be disposed at a pouring portion of the second pour spout and can be substantially flat, and the second spigot portion can be configured for frictionally engaging the internal surface for detachably mounting the spigot within the pour spout;

The second spigot body can comprise a proximal end, a distal end, and an intermediate area disposed between the proximal end and the distal end, and the second spigot portion can be disposed between the intermediate area and the distal end. The second spigot portion can be disposed closer to the distal end than to the intermediate area.

According to a fourth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a combination of a spigot and a pour spout. The spigot comprises a spigot body formed on an external surface thereof with a spigot portion. The pour spout comprises an internal surface having a spout portion. The spigot portion comprises at least one spigot groove, and the spout portion comprises at least one spout protrusion configured to be received in said at least one spigot groove, for snappingly engaging each other upon detachably mounting the spigot within the pour spout.

According to a fifth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a spigot for use with a pour spout. The pour spout comprises an internal surface having a spout portion configured with at least one spout protrusion. The spigot comprises a spigot body formed on an external surface thereof with a spigot portion. The spigot portion comprises at least one spigot groove configured for receiving the at least one spout protrusion, for snappingly engaging each other upon detachably mounting the spigot within the pour spout.

According to a sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method for using a spigot and a pour spout, comprising steps of:

providing a spigot comprising a spigot body formed on an external surface thereof with a spigot portion having at least one spigot groove;

providing a pour spout comprising an internal surface having a spout portion, said spout portion comprising at least one spout protrusion;

mounting said spigot within said pour spot, thereby causing said at least one spout protrusion to snappingly engage said at least one spigot groove; and

dismounting said pour spout from said spigot. Any one or more of the following features, designs and configurations can be incorporated in the spigot and the pour spout of the fourth, fifth and sixth aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, independently or in combination thereof:

The at least one spigot groove can be a single annular groove;

The at least one spout protrusion can be a plurality of ribs. The ribs can be equally spaced from each other;

A minimal diameter of a circle inscribed within the pour spout at the spout portion can be smaller than at least one maximal diameter of at least one circle inscribing the spigot at the spigot portion for allowing the spigot portion and the spout portion to snappingly engage each other. This relationship between the diameters of the spigot and the pour spout takes place since the at least one groove of the spigot is defined between an upper shoulder and a lower shoulder, while the upper shoulder has one maximal diameter of a circle inscribing it, and the lower shoulder has another maximal diameter of another circle inscribing it;

The at least one spout protrusion can be resilient.

According to a seventh aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a combination of a spigot and a pour spout. The spigot comprises a spigot body formed on an external surface thereof with a spigot portion. The pour spout comprises a pouring portion configured with a substantially flat internal surface. The spigot portion is configured for frictionally engaging the internal surface for detachably mounting the spigot within the pour spout.

According to an eighth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a spigot for use with a pour spout comprising a pouring portion configured with a substantially flat internal surface. The spigot comprises a spigot body formed on an external surface thereof with a spigot portion. The spigot portion is configured for frictionally engaging the internal surface for detachably mounting the spigot within the pour spout.

According to a ninth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method for using a spigot and a pour spout, comprising steps of:

providing a spigot comprising a spigot body formed on an external surface thereof with a spigot portion;

providing a pour spout comprising a pouring portion configured with a substantially flat internal surface; mounting said spigot within said pour spot, thereby causing said spigot portion to frictionally engage said internal surface; and

dismounting said pour spout from said spigot.

The spigot according to the first, second and third aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter can be used when there is a need to use more than one type of pour spout on the same filling machine. For example, this need may exist during a transitional period, when a manufacturer would like to try using a new type of pour spout, however, still be able to use the old pour spout, when needed, all without replacing the spigot on the filling machine for each type of pour spout. Alternatively, this need may exist for example when a manufacturer would like to use any time two or more types of pour spouts, without replacing the spigot. It should be indicated that replacement of a spigot on the filling machine can be relatively time consuming, tiresome and can significantly reduce productivity. Therefore, instead of using different spigots for different types of pour spouts, a spigot according to the seventh, eighth and ninth aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter can be used. The spigot according to these aspects exploits the fact that the different pour spouts have a similar structure to their pouring portions, each configured with a substantially flat internal surface with similar diameters. This internal surface is thus exploited for detachably mounting the spigot to each type of a pour spout by frictionally engaging the internal surface of the pour spout.

By this, the same spigot can be used for retaining two or more different types of pour spouts, without the need to replace one spigot with another spigot on the filling machine when changing its work from one to another type of pour spout.

Any one or more of the following features, designs and configurations can be incorporated in the spigot and the pour spout of the seventh, eighth and ninth aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, independently or in combination thereof:

The spigot body can comprise a proximal end, a distal end, and an intermediate area between the proximal end and the distal end, and the spigot portion can be disposed between said intermediate area and the distal end;

The spigot portion can be disposed closer to the distal end than to the intermediate area;

The external surface can comprise a first inclined surface extending between a first narrow portion having a first diameter of an inscribing circle and the spigot portion can have a second diameter of an inscribing circle, so that the second diameter is greater than the first diameter;

The external surface can comprise a second inclined surface extending between the spigot portion and the distal end of the spigot body having a second diameter of an inscribing circle and a second narrow portion having a third diameter of an inscribing circle, so that the second diameter is greater than the third diameter;

The spigot portion can comprise at least one protrusion;

The spigot body can comprise a proximal end, a distal end, and an intermediate area between the proximal end and the distal end, and the spigot portion can be disposed between the intermediate area and the distal end;

The spigot portion can be disposed closer to the distal end than to the intermediate area.

According to a tenth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a combination of a spigot and a pour spout. The spigot comprises a spigot body formed on an external surface thereof with a spigot portion formed as at least one spigot groove having an innermost end or at least one spigot protrusion having an outermost end. The pour spout comprises an internal surface having a plurality of ribs. Each of the ribs has a base portion extending from the internal surface and at least one leading portion extending from the base portion, and the at least one leading portion is configured for snappingly engaging the spigot portion upon detachably mounting the spigot within the pour spout, so that part of the base portion is disposed between the innermost end or the outermost end and the internal surface.

According to an eleventh aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a pour spout for use with a spigot. The spigot comprises a spigot body formed on an external surface thereof with a spigot portion formed as at least one spigot groove having an innermost end or at least one spigot protrusion having an outermost end. The pour spout comprising an internal surface having a plurality of ribs. Each of the ribs has a base portion extending from the internal surface and at least one leading portion extending from the base portion and the at least one leading portion is configured for snappingly engaging the spigot portion upon detachably mounting the spigot within the pour spout, so that part of the base portion is disposed between the innermost end or the outermost end and the internal surface.

According to a twelfth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method for using a spigot and a pour spout. The method comprises steps of: providing a spigot comprising a spigot body formed on an external surface thereof with a spigot portion formed as at least one spigot groove having an innermost end or at least one spigot protrusion having an outermost end;

providing a pour spout comprising an internal surface having a plurality of ribs, each having a base portion extending from said internal surface and at least one leading portion extending from said base portion;

mounting said spigot within said pour spot, thereby causing said spigot portion to frictionally engage said at least one leading portion so that part of said base portion is disposed between said innermost end or said outermost end and said internal surface; and

dismounting said pour spout from said spigot.

The structure of the ribs with a base portion and a leading portion allows the ribs to be bent to the space between the spigot portion and the internal surface of the pour spout during snapping engagement of the spigot portion with the leading portion, and reverting to their original position and shape when the snapping engagement is accomplished. A rib without the base portion, and only with a leading portion, as disclosed for example in WO 2010/106327, would be squeezed during the snapping engagement, and irreversibly deformed, i.e., without the ability to revert to its original shape prior to the engagement. This unwanted result would cause improper mounting of the spigot to the pour spout, and is solved by adding a base portion to the rib as allowing the rib to bend as disclosed above. In other words, the base portion of each rib constitutes a spacer between the spigot and the internal surface of the pour spout, allowing proper mounting of the spigot to the pour spout.

Any one or more of the following features, designs and configurations can be incorporated in the spigot and the pour spout of the tenth, eleventh and twelfth aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter, independently or in combination thereof:

The base portion and the at least one leading portion can be coplanar and can have the same width;

The base portion has a first length and said leading portion has a second length which is smaller than said first length;

At least the base portion can be made of a resilient material, allowing it to bend sideways towards the internal surface upon introduction of the spigot into the pour spout;

The spigot groove or the spigot protrusion can be annular; The ribs can equally spaced from each other.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1A is an isometric view of a combination of a universal spigot and a first pour spout in which the spigot is mounted, according to one example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Fig. IB is the combination of Fig. 1A, with the spigot dismounted from the spout;

Fig. 1C is a cross-sectional view along line A-A in Fig. 1A;

Fig. ID is a cross-sectional view along line B-B in Fig. IB;

Fig. IE is an enlarged view of a portion Al of Fig. ID;

Fig. IF is an isometric view of a combination of the spigot of Fig. 1A and a second different pour spout in which the spigot is mounted, according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Fig. 1G is the combination of Fig. IF, with the spigot dismounted from the spout;

Fig. 1H is a cross-sectional view along line C-C in Fig. IF;

Fig. II is a cross-sectional view along line D-D in Fig. 1G;

Fig. 1J is an enlarged view of a portion A2 of Fig. II;

Fig. 2A is an isometric view of a combination of a universal spigot and a first pour spout in which the spigot is mounted, according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Fig. 2B is the combination of Fig. 2A, with the spigot dismounted from the spout;

Fig. 2C is a cross-sectional view along line E-E in Fig. 2A;

Fig. 2D is a cross-sectional view along line F-F in Fig. 2B;

Fig. 2E is an isometric view of a combination of the spigot of Fig. 2A and a second different pour spout in which the spigot is mounted, according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter; Fig. 2F is the combination of Fig. IE, with the spigot dismounted from the spout;

Fig. 2G is a cross-sectional view along line G-G in Fig. 2E;

Fig. 2H is a cross-sectional view along line H-H in Fig. 2F;

Fig. 3A is an isometric view of a combination of a universal spigot and a first pour spout in which the spigot is mounted, according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Fig. 3B is the combination of Fig. 3A, with the spigot dismounted from the spout;

Fig. 3C is a cross-sectional view along line I-I in Fig. 3A;

Fig. 3D is a cross-sectional view along line J-J in Fig. 3B;

Fig. 3E is an isometric view of a combination of the spigot of Fig. 3A and a second different pour spout in which the spigot is mounted, according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Fig. 3F is the combination of Fig. 3E, with the spigot dismounted from the spout;

Fig. 3G is a cross-sectional view along line K-K in Fig. 3E;

Fig. 3H is a cross-sectional view along line L-L in Fig. 3F;

Fig. 4A is an isometric view of a combination of a spigot and a pour spout in which the spigot is mounted, according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Fig. 4B is the combination of Fig. 4A, with the spigot dismounted from the spout;

Fig. 4C is a cross-sectional view along line M-M in Fig. 4A;

Fig. 4D is a cross-sectional view along line N-N in Fig. 4B;

Fig. 5A is an isometric view of a combination of a spigot and a pour spout in which the spigot is mounted, according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter;

Fig. 5B is the combination of Fig. 5A, with the spigot dismounted from the spout;

Fig. 5C is a cross-sectional view along line 0-0 in Fig. 5A; and

Fig. 5D is a cross-sectional view along line P-P in Fig. 5B. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Reference is now made to Figs. 1A-J in which a combination 1 of a universal spigot 2 for use with two different pour spouts, i.e., a first pour spout 20 (Figs. 1A-E) and a second pour spout 60 is shown, in accordance with one example of the first, second and third aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter. The engagement between the spigot 2 and the first pour spout 20 is also in accordance with one example of the fourth, fifth and sixth aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter. The structure of the pour spout 60 is also in accordance with one example of the tenth, eleventh and twelfth aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter.

The spigot 2 shown in Figs. 1A-J comprises a cylindrical spigot body 4 having a spigot longitudinal axis X and extending between a proximal end 3 and a distal end 19. The spigot body 4 has an external surface 5, which is formed thereon with a first spigot portion in the form of an annular groove 7 and a second spigot portion in the form of an annular protrusion 9. The groove 7 and the protrusion 9 are disposed consecutively along the spigot longitudinal axis X so that the groove 7 is disposed closer to the distal end 19 than the protrusion 9. The groove 7 is disposed between the protrusion 9, constituting a lower shoulder and an upper shoulder 6. The spigot body 4 has a first maximal diameter Dl of a circle inscribing the spigot body 4 at the shoulder 6, a second maximal diameter D2 of a circle inscribing the spigot body 4 at the protrusion 9, and a minimal diameter Dl' of a circle inscribing the spigot body 4 at the groove 7.

The spigot 2 further comprises a stub 12 attached to the spigot body 4. The stud 12 is configured for releasably connecting the spigot 2 to an applicator of a filling machine (not shown). The spigot 2 is structured so that it can be detachably mounted to both the first pour spout 20 and the second pour spout 60 by snappingly engaging their respective spout portions to groove 7 and the protrusion 9, respectively. The spigot 2 is thus a universal spigot that is configured to be used for retaining two different types of pour spouts, without the need to be replaced with another spigot on the filling machine when changing its work from one to another type of a pour spout.

Referring particularly to Figs. 1A-E, in which the spigot 2 and the first pour spout 20 are shown, the first pour spout 20 has a proximal end 21, a distal end 50, and three main portions extending therebetween: a pouring part 40, a spout part 30 and a flange 23. The flange 23 is configured to be used for connecting (by means of welding, gluing, or any other means) the first pour spout 20 to a wall of a container (not shown) while the spout part 30 and the pouring part 40 are received within a preformed opening in the container's wall.

The pouring part 40 has an internal surface 42 and an external surface 44. The internal surface 42 is substantially flat so as to allow smooth flow of fluid from the container. The external surface 44 is configured with a screw thread 46 for screw- coupling a cap (not shown) thereto.

The spout part 30 is configured with a first spout portion formed by a plurality of first spout protrusions in the form of ribs 34 extending from an internal surface 32 of the spout part 30. The ribs 34 are equally spaced from each other. Each one of the ribs 34 has a base portion 35 and a leading portion 36, which are described below in a detailed manner with reference to Fig. IE. The spout part 30 has a minimal diameter D3 (shown in Figs. 1D-E) of a circle inscribed therein between the leading portions 36, so that the diameter D3 is smaller than the first diameter Dl and the second diameter D2, and greater than the diameter Dl'. Upon introduction of the distal end 19 of the spigot 2 into the pouring part 40, the leading portions 36 are resiliently engaging the external surface 5, passing by the shoulder 6, and then snappingly received within the groove 7 due to the fact that diameter D3 is smaller than the first diameter Dl and the second diameter D2, and greater than diameter Dl'. This snapping engagement of the leading portions 36 and the groove 7 allows firmly mounting the spigot 2 to the first pour spout 20, and easily dismounting the spigot 2 from the first pour spout 20, upon accomplishing the connection of the first pour spout 20 to the container.

Reference is now made to Fig. IE, in which an enlarged view of the rib 34 is shown, in order to describe the tenth, eleventh and twelfth aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter.

The rib 34 is structured of the base portion 35 extending from the internal surface 32 and the leading portion 36 extending from the base portion 35. The base portion 35 and the leading portion 36 are coplanar and have the same width. The base portion 35 has a first length LI and the leading portion 36 has a second length L2 which is smaller than the first length LI. When the spigot 2 is mounted to the pour spout 20, the base portion 35 is disposed between an innermost end 8 of the groove 7 and the internal surface 32.

The structure of the ribs 34 with the base portion 35 and the leading portion 36 allows the ribs 34 to be bent to the space between the external surface 5 and the internal surface 32 during snapping engagement of the spigot 2 with the pour spout 20, and reverting to their original position and shape when the snapping engagement is accomplished. In other words, the base portion 35 of each rib constitutes a spacer between the spigot 2 and the internal surface 32 of the pour spout 20, allowing proper mounting of the spigot 2 to the pour spout 20.

Referring particularly to Figs. 1F-J, in which the spigot 2 and the second pour spout 60 are shown, the second pour spout 60 has a proximal end 61, a distal end 90, and three main portions extending therebetween: a pouring portion 80, a spout portion 70 and a flange 63. The flange 63 is configured to be used for connecting (by means of welding, gluing, or any other means) the second pour spout 60 to a wall of a container (not shown) while the spout portion 70 and the pouring portion 80 are received within a preformed opening in the container's wall.

The pouring portion 80 has an internal surface 82 and an external surface 84. The internal surface 82 is substantially flat so as to allow smooth flow of fluid from the container. The external surface 84 is configured with a screw thread 86 for screw- coupling a cap (not shown) thereto.

The spout portion 70 is configured with a second spout portion formed by a plurality of second spout protrusions in the form of ribs 74 extending from an internal surface 72 of the spout portion 70. The ribs 74 are equally spaced from each other. Each one of the ribs 74 has a base portion 75 and a groove 76 defined between an upper leading potion 78 and a lower leading portion 77, which are described below in a detailed manner with reference to Fig. 1J. The spout portion 70 has two minimal diameters (shown in Figs. 1H-I), i.e., a first minimal diameter D4 of a circle inscribed therein between the upper shoulders 78, a second minimal diameter D5 of a circle inscribed therein between the lower shoulders 77, and a maximal diameter D4' of a circle inscribed therein between the grooves 76, so that the diameter D2 is greater than the first diameter D4 and the second diameter D5, and is smaller than diameter D4'. Upon introduction of the distal end 19 of the spigot 2 into the pouring portion 80, the lower shoulders 77 are resiliently engaging the protrusion 9 until the protrusion 9 is snappingly received within the grooves 76 due to the fact the diameter D2 is smaller than the first diameter D4 and the second diameter D5, and is greater than diameter D4'. This snapping engagement of the protrusion 9 and the grooves 76 allows firmly mounting the spigot 2 to the second pour spout 60, as well as easily dismounting the spigot 2 from the second pour spout 60, upon accomplishing the connection of the second pour spout 60 to the container.

Reference is now made to Fig. 1J, in which an enlarged view of the rib 74 is shown, in order to describe the tenth, eleventh and twelfth aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter.

The rib 74 is structured of the base portion 75 extending from the internal surface 72 and the leading portions 37 and 38 extending from the base portion 75. The base portion 75 and the leading portions 37 and 38 are coplanar and have the same width. The base portion 75 has a first length L3, the lower leading portion 77 has a second length L4, and the upper leading portion 78 has a third length L5, when each one of the second length L4 and the third length L5 is smaller than the first length L3. When the spigot 2 is mounted to the pour spout 60, the base portion 75 is disposed between an outermost end 10 (shown in Fig. II) of the protrusion 9 and the internal surface 32.

The structure of the ribs 74 with the base portion 75 and the leading portions 77 and 78 allows the ribs 74 to be bent to the space between the external surface 5 and the internal surface 72 during snapping engagement of the spigot 2 with the pour spout 60, and reverting to their original position and shape when the snapping engagement is accomplished. In other words, the base portion 75 of each rib constitutes a spacer between the spigot 2 and the internal surface 72 of the pour spout 60, allowing proper mounting of the spigot 2 to the pour spout 60. In particular, the existence of the base portion 75 behind the lower leading portion 77, prevent the lower leading portion 77 of the ribs 74 to be squeezed during the snapping engagement, and irreversible deformed.

Reference is now made to Figs. 2A-H in which a combination 100 of a universal spigot 102 for use with two different pour spouts, i.e., a first pour spout 120 (Figs. 2A- D) and a second pour spout 160 is shown, in accordance with another example of the first, second and third aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter. The engagement between the spigot 102 and the first pour spout 120 is also in accordance with another example of the fourth, fifth and sixth aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter. Moreover, the engagement between the spigot 102 and the second pour spout 160 is also in accordance with another example of the seventh, eighth and ninth aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter.

The spigot 102 shown in Figs. 2A-H comprises a cylindrical spigot body 104 having a spigot longitudinal axis X and extending between a proximal end 103 and a distal end 119. The spigot body 104 further has an intermediate area 118 disposed at the middle thereof, between the proximal end 103 and the distal end 119. The spigot body 104 has an external surface 105, which is formed thereon with a first spigot portion in the form of an annular groove 107 and second spigot portion 109, which is a flat upper portion of the external surface 105. The groove 107 and the second spigot portion 109 are disposed consecutively along the spigot longitudinal axis X so that the groove 107 is disposed closer to the proximal end 103 than the second spigot portion 109. The groove 107 is disposed between a lower shoulder 106 and an upper shoulder 108. The spigot body 104 has a first maximal diameter D6 of a circle inscribing the spigot body 104 at the upper shoulder 108, a second maximal diameter D7 of a circle inscribing the spigot body 104 at the lower shoulder 106, and a minimal diameter D6' of a circle inscribing the spigot body 104 at the groove 107.

The spigot 102 further comprises a stub 112 attached to the spigot body 104. The stud 112 is configured for releasably connecting the spigot 102 to an applicator of a manufacture machine (not shown). The spigot 102 is structured so that it can be detachably mounted to both the first pour spout 120 and the second pour spout 160 by snappingly engaging the respective spout portion of the first pour spout 120 to groove 107 and frictionally engaging the respective spout portion of the second pour spout 160 and the second spigot portion 109, respectively. The spigot 102 is thus a universal spigot that is configured to be used for retaining two different types of pour spouts, without the need to be replaced with another spigot on the filling machine when changing its work from one to another type of a pour spout.

Referring particularly to Figs. 2A-D, in which the spigot 102 and the first pour spout 120 are shown, the first pour spout 120 has a proximal end 121, a distal end 150, and three main portions extending therebetween: a pouring part 140, a spout part 130 and a flange 123. The flange 123 is configured to be used for connecting (by means of welding, gluing, or any other means) the first pour spout 120 to a wall of a container (not shown) while the spout part 130 and the pouring part 140 are received within a preformed opening in the container's wall.

The pouring part 140 has an internal surface 142 and an external surface 144. The internal surface 142 is substantially flat so as to allow smooth flow of fluid from the container. The external surface 144 is configured with a screw thread 146 for screw- coupling a cap (not shown) thereto. The spout part 130 is configured with a first spout portion formed by a plurality of spout protrusions taking the form of ribs 134 extending from an internal surface 132 of the spout part 130. The ribs 134 are equally spaced from each other. Each one of the ribs 134 has a leading portion 136. The spout part 130 has a minimal diameter D8 (shown in Figs. 2C-D) of a circle inscribed therein between the leading portions 136, so that the diameter D8 is smaller than the first diameter D6 and the second diameter D7, and is greater than the diameter D6'. Upon introduction of the distal end 119 of the spigot 102 into the pouring part 140, the leading portions 136 are resiliently engaging the second spigot portion 109, passing by the shoulder 108, and then snappingly received within the groove 107 due to the fact that diameter D8 is smaller than the first diameter D6 and the second diameter D7, and is greater than diameter D6'. This snapping engagement of the leading portions 136 and the groove 107 allows firmly mounting the spigot 102 to the first pour spout 120, and easily dismounting the spigot 102 from the first pour spout 120, upon accomplishing the connection of the first pour spout 120 to the container.

Referring particularly to Figs. 2E-H, in which the spigot 102 and the second pour spout 160 are shown, the second pour spout 160 has a proximal end 161, a distal end 190, and three main portions extending therebetween: a pouring part 180, a spout part 170 and a flange 163. The flange 163 is configured to be used for connecting (by means of welding, gluing, or any other means) the second pour spout 160 to a wall of a container (not shown) while the spout portion 170 and the pouring portion 180 are received within a preformed opening in the container's wall.

The pouring portion 180 has an internal surface 182 and an external surface 184. The internal surface 182 is substantially flat so as to allow smooth flow of fluid from the container. The external surface 184 is configured with a screw thread 186 for screw- coupling a cap (not shown) thereto. The internal surface 182 has a second spout portion 188, constituting the lower portion of the internal surface 182 and delimited by a step 181 bordering the pouring portion 180 and the spout part 170. The second spout portion 188 is configured for frictionally engaging the spigot 102, as explained hereinafter.

The spigot body 104 has a maximal diameter D9 of a circle inscribing the second spigot portion 109, and the second spout portion 188 has a minimal diameter D10 (shown in Figs. 2G-H) of a circle inscribed therein, so that the diameter D10 is smaller than the diameter D9 (when the spigot 102 and the pour spout 160 are separated). Upon introduction of the distal end 119 of the spigot 102 into the pouring portion 180, the second spigot portion 109 is resiliently and frictionally engaging the second spout portion 188 until no further advancement of the spigot 102 into the second spout is possible. This frictional engagement of the second spout portion 188 and the second spigot portion 109 allows f irmly mounting the spigot 102 to the second pour spout 160, and easily dismounting the spigot 102 from the second pour spout 160, upon accomplishing the connection of the second pour spout 160 to the container.

It is appreciated that the second spigot portion 109 by itself can be used for frictionally engaging internal surfaces of pouring portions of other types of pour spouts as well. The second spigot portion 109 of the spigot 102 can thus exploit the fact that different pour spouts have a similar structure to their pouring portions, each configured with a substantially flat internal surface with similar diameters. By this, the spigot 102 can be used for retaining two or more different types of pour spouts by frictionally engaging the internal surfaces of their pouring portions, without the need to replace one spigot with another spigot on the filling machine when changing its work from one to another type of pour spout.

It can thus be summarized that the spigot 102 is a universal spigot not only because it has two different spigot portions, but also because the second spigot portion can be used for frictionally engaging internal surfaces of pouring portions of different pouring spouts having suitable structure and dimensions.

Reference is now made to Figs. 3A-H in which a combination 200 of a universal spigot 202 for use with two different pour spouts, i.e., a first pour spout 220 (Figs. 3A- D) and a second pour spout 260 is shown, in accordance with another example of the first, second and third aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter. The engagement between the spigot 202 and the second pour spout 260 is also in accordance with another example of the seventh, eighth and ninth aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter.

The spigot 202 shown in Figs. 3A-H comprises a cylindrical spigot body 204 having a spigot longitudinal axis X and extending between a proximal end 203 and a distal end 219. The spigot body 204 further has an intermediate area 218 disposed at the middle thereof, between the proximal end 203 and the distal end 219. The spigot body 204 has an external surface 205, which is formed thereon with a first spigot portion in the form of an annular groove 207 disposed in proximity to the proximal end 203 and second spigot portion in the form of an annular protrusion 209. The protrusion 209 is the uppermost portion of an inclined surface 208 of the external surface 205. The inclined surface 208 is extending from the intermediate area 218 to the protrusion 209. The groove 207 is an undercut formed in the spigot body 204. The groove 207 and the protrusion 209 are disposed consecutively along the spigot longitudinal axis X so that the groove 207 is disposed closer to the proximal end 203 than the protrusion 209. The groove 207 is delimited at its upper end by an upper shoulder 206. The spigot body 204 has a maximal diameter Dl l of a circle inscribing the spigot body 204 at the upper shoulder 206, and a minimal diameter Dl l' of a circle inscribing the spigot body 204 at the groove 207.

The spigot 202 further comprises a stub 212 attached to the spigot body 204. The stud 212 is configured for releasably connecting the spigot 202 to an applicator of a manufacture machine (not shown). The spigot 202 is structured so that it can be detachably mounted to both the first pour spout 220 and the second pour spout 260 by snappingly engaging the respective spout portion of the first pour spout 220 and the groove 207 and frictionally engaging the respective spout portion of the second pour spout 260 and the protrusion 209, respectively. The spigot 202 is thus a universal spigot that is configured to be used for retaining two different types of pour spouts, without the need to be replaced with another spigot on the filling machine when changing its work from one to another type of a pour spout.

Referring particularly to Figs. 3A-D, in which the spigot 202 and the first pour spout 220 are shown, the first pour spout 220 has a proximal end 221, a distal end 250, and three main portions extending therebetween: a pouring part 240, a spout part 230 and a flange 223. The flange 223 is configured to be used for connecting (by means of welding, gluing, or any other means) the first pour spout 220 to a wall of a container (not shown) while the spout part 230 and the pouring part 240 are received within a preformed opening in the container's wall.

The pouring part 240 has an internal surface 242 and an external surface 244. The internal surface 242 is substantially flat so as to allow smooth flow of fluid from the container. The external surface 244 is configured with a screw thread 246 for screw- coupling a cap (not shown) thereto.

The spout part 230 is configured with a first spout portion formed by an inner bead 234 extending from an internal surface 232 of the spout part 230 in proximity to the proximal end 203. The spout part 230 has a minimal diameter D12 (shown in Figs. 2C-D) of a circle inscribed within the inner bead 234, so that the diameter D12 is smaller than the diameter Dl l and greater than the diameter Dl l'. Upon introduction of the distal end 219 of the spigot 202 into the pouring part 240, the inner bead 234 is resiliently engaging a leading wall 211 of the spigot 202, passing by the shoulder 207, and then snappingly received within the groove 207 due to the fact that diameter D12 is smaller than diameter Dl l and greater than the diameter Dl l'. This snapping engagement of the inner bead 234 and the groove 207 allows firmly mounting the spigot 202 to the first pour spout 220, and easily dismounting the spigot 202 from the first pour spout 220, upon accomplishing the connection of the first pour spout 220 to the container.

Referring particularly to Figs. 3E-H, in which the spigot 202 and the second pour spout 260 are shown, the second pour spout 260 has a proximal end 261, a distal end 290, and three main portions extending therebetween: a pouring part 280, a spout part 270 and a flange 263. The flange 263 is configured to be used for connecting (by means of welding, gluing, or any other means) the second pour spout 260 to a wall of a container (not shown) while the spout portion 270 and the pouring portion 280 are received within a preformed opening in the container's wall.

The pouring portion 280 has an internal surface 282 and an external surface 284. The internal surface 282 is substantially flat so as to allow smooth flow of fluid from the container. The external surface 284 is configured with a screw thread 286 for screw- coupling a cap (not shown) thereto. The internal surface 282 has a second spout portion 288, constituting the lower portion of the internal surface 282, and delimited by a step 281 bordering the pouring portion 280 and the spout part 270. The second spout portion 288 is configured for frictionally engaging the spigot 202, as explained hereinafter.

The spigot body 204 has a maximal diameter D13 of a circle inscribing the annular protrusion 209, and the second spout portion 288 has a minimal diameter D14 (shown in Figs. 3G-H) of a circle inscribed therein, so that the diameter D14 is smaller than the diameter D13 (when the spigot 202 and the pour spout 260 are separated). The spigot body 204 also has a maximal diameter D13' of a circle inscribing the middle portion 218, when D13' is smaller than D13. Upon introduction of the distal end 219 of the spigot 202 into the pouring portion 280, the protrusion 209 is resiliently and frictionally engaging the second spout portion 288 until no further advancement of the spigot 202 into the second spout is possible. This frictional engagement of the second spout portion 288 and the protrusion 209 allows firmly mounting the spigot 202 to the second pour spout 260, and easily dismounting the spigot 202 from the second pour spout 260, upon accomplishing the connection of the second pour spout 260 to the container.

It is appreciated that the second spigot portion 209 by itself can be used for frictionally engaging internal surfaces of pouring portions of other types of pour spouts as well. The protrusion 209 of the spigot 202 can thus exploit the fact that different pour spouts are having a similar structure to their pouring portions, each configured with a substantially flat internal surface with similar diameters. By this, the spigot 202 can be used for retaining two or more different types of pour spouts by frictionally engaging the internal surfaces of their pouring portions, without the need to replace one spigot with another spigot on the filling machine when changing its work from one to another type of pour spout.

It can thus be summarized that the spigot 202 is a universal spigot not only because it has two different spigot portions, but also because the second spigot portion can be used for frictionally engaging internal surfaces of pouring portions of different pouring spouts having suitable structure and dimensions.

Reference is now made to Figs. 4A-D in which a combination 300 of a spigot 302 for use in a pour spout 320 is shown, in accordance with another example of the fourth, fifth and sixth aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter.

The spigot 302 comprises a cylindrical spigot body 304 having a spigot longitudinal axis X and extending between a proximal end 303 and a distal end 319. The spigot body 304 has an external surface 305, which is formed thereon with a spigot portion in the form of an annular groove 307. The groove 307 is disposed between a lower shoulder 308 and an upper shoulder 306. The spigot body 304 has a first maximal diameter D15 of a circle inscribing the spigot body 304 at the shoulder 306, a second maximal diameter D16 of a circle inscribing the spigot body 304 at the lower shoulder 308, and a minimal diameter D15' of a circle inscribing the spigot body at the groove 307.

The spigot 302 further comprises a stub 312 attached to the spigot body 304. The stud 312 is configured for releasably connecting the spigot 302 to an applicator of a manufacture machine (not shown). The spigot 302 is structured so that it can be detachably mounted to both the pour spout 320 by snappingly engaging its respective spout portion to groove 307.

The pour spout 320 has a proximal end 321, a distal end 350, and three main portions extending therebetween: a pouring part 340, a spout part 330 and a flange 323. The flange 323 is configured to be used for connecting (by means of welding, gluing, or any other means) the pour spout 320 to a wall of a container (not shown) while the spout part 330 and the pouring part 340 are received within a preformed opening in the container's wall.

The pouring part 340 has an internal surface 342 and an external surface 344. The internal surface 342 is substantially flat so as to allow smooth flow of fluid from the container. The external surface 344 is configured with a screw thread 346 for screw- coupling a cap (not shown) thereto.

The spout part 330 is configured with a spout portion formed by a plurality of first spout protrusions in the form of ribs 334 extending from an internal surface 332 of the spout part 330. The ribs 334 are equally spaced from each other. Each one of the ribs 334 has a leading portion 336.

The spout part 330 has a minimal diameter D17 (shown in Figs. 4C-D) of a circle inscribed therein, so that the diameter D17 is smaller than the first diameter D15 and the second diameter D16, and greater than diameter D15'. Upon introduction of the distal end 319 of the spigot 302 into the pouring part 340, the leading portions 336 are resiliently engaging the external surface 305, passing by the shoulder 306, and then snappingly received within the groove 307 due to the fact that diameter D17 is smaller than the first diameter D15 and the second diameter D16, and greater than diameter D15'. This snapping engagement of the leading portions 336 and the groove 307 allows firmly mounting the spigot 302 to the pour spout 320, and easily dismounting the spigot 302 from the pour spout 320, upon accomplishing the connection of the first pour spout 320 to the container.

Reference is now made to Figs. 5A-D in which a combination 400 of a spigot 402 for use with a pour spout 460 is shown, in accordance with another example of the seventh, eighth and ninth aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter.

The spigot 402 comprises a cylindrical spigot body 404 having a spigot longitudinal axis X and extending between a proximal end 403 and a distal end 419. The spigot body 404 further has an intermediate area 418 disposed at the middle thereof, between the proximal end 403 and the distal end 419. The spigot body 404 has an external surface 405, which is formed thereon with a spigot portion in the form of an annular protrusion 409. The protrusion 409 is the uppermost portion of an inclined surface 408 of the external surface 405. The inclined surface 408 is extending from the intermediate area 418 to the protrusion 409. The spigot 402 further comprises a stub 412 attached to the spigot body 404. The stud 412 is configured for releasably connecting the spigot 402 to an applicator of a manufacture machine (not shown). The spigot 402 is structured so that it can be detachably mounted to the pour spout 460 by frictionally engaging the respective spout portion of the pour spout 460 and the protrusion 409.

The pour spout 460 has a proximal end 461, a distal end 490, and three main portions extending therebetween: a pouring part 480, a spout part 470 and a flange 463. The flange 463 is configured to be used for connecting (by means of welding, gluing, or any other means) the pour spout 460 to a wall of a container (not shown) while the spout portion 470 and the pouring portion 480 are received within a preformed opening in the container's wall.

The pouring portion 480 has an internal surface 482 and an external surface 484. The internal surface 482 is substantially flat so as to allow smooth flow of fluid from the container. The external surface 484 is configured with a screw thread 486 for screw- coupling a cap (not shown) thereto. The internal surface 482 has a spout portion 488, constituting the lower portion of the internal surface 482, and delimited by a step 481 bordering the pouring portion 480 and the spout part 470. The second spout portion 488 is configured for frictionally engaging the spigot 402, as explained hereinafter.

The spigot body 404 has a maximal diameter D18 of a circle inscribing the annular protrusion 409, and the spout portion 488 has a minimal diameter D19 (shown in Figs. 5C-D) of a circle inscribed therein, so that the diameter D19 is smaller than the diameter D18 (when the spigot 402 and the pour spout 460 are separated). The spigot body 404 also has a maximal diameter D18' of a circle inscribing the middle portion 418, when D18' is smaller than D18. Upon introduction of the distal end 419 of the spigot 402 into the pouring portion 480, the protrusion 409 is resiliently and frictionally engaging the spout portion 488 until no further advancement of the spigot 402 into the second spout is possible. This frictional engagement of the spout portion 488 and the protrusion 409 allows firmly mounting the spigot 402 to the pour spout 460, and easily dismounting the spigot 402 from the second pour spout 460, upon accomplishing the connection of the second pour spout 460 to the container.

It is appreciated that the spigot portion 409 by itself can be used for frictionally engaging internal surfaces of pouring portions of other types of pour spouts as well. The protrusion 409 of the spigot 402 can thus exploit the fact the different pour spouts are having similar structure of their pouring portions, each configured with a substantially flat internal surface with similar diameters. By this, the spigot 402 can be used for retaining two or more different types of pour spouts by frictionally engaging the internal surfaces of their pouring portions, without the need to replace one spigot with another spigot on the filling machine when changing its work from one to another type of pour spout.

It can thus be summarized that the spigot 402 is a universal spigot because the protrusion 409 can be used for frictionally engaging internal surfaces of pouring portions of different pouring spouts having suitable structure and dimensions.