Tamper-Indicative closures and containers

Abstract

 A container closure for providing tamper indication includes a closure member defining container closing expanse, a tamper-indicating element in the closure interiorly of the closure member and an element movable with the closure member for both retaining the tamper-indicating element with the closure member and for selectively tearing the tamper-indicating element upon opening movement of the closure. The retaining-tearing element is inaccessible through the closing expanse of said closure member and the closure affords visibility therethrough of the tamper-indicating element.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates generally to containers and closures of tamper-indicating type and pertains more particularly to closures providing containers with tamper indication.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Events of recent years in the United States and elsewhere have heightened the need for an effective manner in which to assure the uncontaminated delivery of contained products to a consumer, particularly medicinal products taken internally. Specifically needed is a container for such products which bears assuring indication to the consumer that the contents have not been tampered with from their point of manufacture to the point of consumer sale.

[0003] A fundamental prior art approach toward meeting this need is seen in the so-called "teltale" indication, i.e., a readily discernible characteristic indicative of tampering, such as a signal that some person has previously attempted to gain access to the container contents. Broadly speaking, this approach can be generalized as placing a tamper-indicating member in the path of access to a container to indicate tampering by discernible change. Categorizing teltale types, one finds in the prior art approaches elements which evidence color change, which mechanically present literal messages, and which are ruptured or torn upon the occurrence of tampering. The color change devices may be considered less than desirable as requiring ambient-sensitive constituents and measures for sealing same from ambient environment. The mechanical devices providing literal indication, i.e., the words "closed" or "open", are less than desirable as they are inherently complex and customized. Of the three categories, the rupturing and tearing practice offers the best potential for desired simplicity in solution.

[0004] Prior art teltales may also be categorized in respect of the relative location of the teltale to the container access port. Here, one finds efforts in which the teltales are located directly at the access port and wherein the teltales are otherwise located in the path of access to the container. In the former locational practices, teltales directly span the access opening, e.g., are secured across the mouths of jars. In the latter, the teltales are located in container wrappers, within plastic heat shrunk about the capped jar, etc. Clearly, the effective location for a teltale is directly at the access port, since wrappers, heat shrunk plastic sleeves and like teltale items outside the container may be removed and the remaining capped container remain without tamper indication.

[0005] Further, prior art teltale indication may be categorized as of type wherein the teltale directly at the access opening is closure member activated or not. In the former category, reverse sense (opening) movement of the closure member brings some element into tearing relation with the teltale. In the latter case, the teltale is unaffected by closure member removal. Clearly, the closure member activated case affords greater security.

[0006] U.S. Waring Patents Nos. 2,131,774 and 2,131,775 are considered to disclose tamper-indicating containers incorporating the desired of the foregoing categories of tamper indication. In these containers, the tamper-indicating element is simple rupturable sheet material. The element is located directly at the container mouth opening and is cap-activated. In accomodating this operative selection of features, however, Waring has vulnerability, recognized expressly in the patents, to direct tampering with the teltale element.

[0007] The Waring '774 practice is to provide a cap in the form of a hollow cylinder having a skirt depending from the cap top and interiorly threaded to receive the jar neck. The cap top is centrally open and prongs are formed in the plane of the cap extending into the central opening. The teltale element is nested in the cap interior and suitably secured therein. The cap with its nested teltale is then rotated into secured relation with the jar. Now the prongs are bent out of the plane of the cap top and into puncturing relation with the teltale element, remaining accessible through the open cap top.

[0008] In commenting on this aspect of his capped container, Waring states that if one tampers with the prongs, i.e., by bending same. out of such ruptured relation with the teltale element, the consumer can detect such tampering by observing the state of the prongs said to be deformed on reinsertion and by observing the state of the teltale element said to be thus marred. Such ultimate reliance on demanding observations by the consumer renders the Waring approach less than desirable, despite its inclusion of the most effective of the outlined practices. Its shortcoming indicates still another essential to effective tamper indication, namely, that the rupturing elements and teltale must be maintained inaccessible.

[0009] In practice under the Waring '775 patent, the teltale is secured to the cap for movement therewith, the cap again having its top centrally open. A liner is stapled, stitched or glued to the teltale. In the course of rotation of the cap, teltale and liner into secured relation with a jar, a frictional undersurface of the liner is compressed onto the jar neck by friction therebetween. As the cap is rotated in opposite sense to be released from the jar, the cap and teltale rotate initially relative to the liner and staple, whereby the staple ruptures the teltale. The limitation of the '774 practice is again present, i.e., the staple is accessible at all times through the open cap center.

[0010] Nor do the referenced '774 and '775 patents accomodate what may be termed "the alternative user preference", which requires both (1) that the teltale and sealing layer be removable with and be fully contained, including teltale fragments, by the cap upon its removal from the container and (2) that there be an adhesive or bonded seal between the cap liner and container access port up to the point of initial opening. Thus, the Waring patents expressly disavow any form of adhesive or bonded securement of the cap to the container, requiring that no adhesive bond exist between the cap and container. Accordingly, requirement (2) of the alternative use preference is not met.

[0011] The retention of cap liners with the cap during cap shipment and cap application to containers is a present industry practice, as is shown, for example, in Dukess U.S. Patents No. 3,819,460 and No. 3,917,100. A circumferential groove is formed in the cap immediately beneath the cap top panel above the cap threads. In commercial practice, the liner is forced into the cap and nests in the retention groove. In practice described in the Dukess patents, the liner-includes a compressible layer which is said to be displaced tadially outwardly of the liner into sealing relation with the groove wall as the cap is threaded upon a container. In both the commercial and the Dukess patented practices, tamper indication is not involved and there is no anchoring of the liners to the container mouth, as by adhesive or other bond.

[0012] In related considerations, applicants see as highly desirable characteristics of effective tamper indication such matters as equipping closure members with complete tamper-indicating capability at the point of their manufacture, enabling them to be made without customized cap structure or cap-working steps as in the Waring approach, and as adapted for use with the widespread varieties of caps currently in production.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] This invention has as its primary object the provision of improved tamper indication for containers of the capped type and methods for effecting same.

[0014] The invention has as a further object the accomodation of the above-noted practice selections and existing practices in the related industries.

[0015] The present invention has as another object the provision of tamper indication systems wherein the alternative user preference is accomodated in both of its requirements.

[0016] In attaining these and other objects, applicants provide a container having a jar with a mouth for access to its contents, a teltale element, which may be in the form of a simple paper seal closing the mouth, and a see-through cap releasably securable to the jar and circumscribing its mouth and the teltale element when secured to the jar. The cap includes one or more puncturing elements interiorly of the cap for travel with the cap. The teltale element is arranged in captive relation to the puncturing element prior to assembly of the cap with the jar. As the cap is rotated into securement with the jar, the teltale element becomes secured to the jar mouth as it engages same, for example, through contact activation of a sealant on the jar mouth. Reverse sense opening movement of the cap is accompanied by visible rupturing and tearing of the teltale.

[0017] The puncturing element may take the form of one or more knife-like tines depending from the cap upper interior surface and non-deflectable relative thereto. The cap is desirably made of transparent material such that the condition of the teltale element may be viewed constantly after the initial assembly juncture and to the point of consumer sale.

[0018] In another closure of the invention, the cap tines have a teltale wafer applied thereto and the tines are then blunted upon the teltale wafer undersurface. A second wafer is now adhesively secured to the teltale wafer and, since the second wafer is unaffected by the tines when the teltale wafer is ruptured, the second wafer can maintain the jar sealed and its contents unaffected by teltale wafer ruptured parts.

[0019] A further teltale of the invention has a compressible layer, such as foam, in which the tines are captive. The preferred teltale is a laminate inclusive of such compressible layer and an underlayer which is both effective to blunt the tines in fully captured relation in the compressible layer and to serve as a jar sealing layer. A foil overlayer may also be included.

[0020] The cap may include means for distributing force applied to the teltale to its periphery, thereby lessening the likelihood of tine rupture of the teltale in movement of the cap into initial securement with a jar. The force distributing means may also serve as a cap reseal for a jar upon removal of the teltale after initial jar opening. The invention further encompasses an overcap for the closure cap to defeat malicious activations of the teltale.

[0021] In accomodating the alternative user preference, a further embodiment of the invention includes, in addition ; to the tines, means within the cap for engaging the teltale assembly selectively subsequent to its activation on cap opening movement, both to forcibly break the sealing bond between the teltale laminate and container and to retain the teltale laminate with the cap. The teltale laminate is secured to the container mouth, as by induction heating, and the teltale laminate is so structured as to maintain its integrity as it is forcibly separated from such securement in the course of cap opening movement.

[0022] In another aspect, the invention provides a vessel comprising the customary neck terminating in a vessel mouth and defining surface extent circumscribing the mouth and inclusive of vessel sealing surface and the neck. has the typical threads for closure member securing thereon. The vessel surface extent is adapted for engaging the teltale and is configured to effect first and second different engagements therewith respectively in the course of the first and second sense movements. With such facility, the vessel permits the teltale to be moved into closure relation with the sealing surface in first sense closure movement and to be selectively positively restrained from movement relative to the mouth in the initial phase of the second sense closure member movement without need for an adhesive layer or other bonding agent between the vessel neck and the teltale.

[0023] The foregoing and other objects and features of the invention will be further evident from the following detailed description thereof and from the drawings wherein like reference numerals identify like parts throughout.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] 

_Fig. 1 is a plan elevation of a first closure.

Fig. 2 is a front sectional elevation of the Fig. 1 closure as seen from section line II-II of Fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is an elevation of a tine of the Fig. 1 closure as seen from plane III-III of Fig. 1.

Fig. 4 is a side elevation of the Fig. 3 tine.

Fig. 5 is a front elevation, partly broken away, of another closure embodiment.

Fig. 6 is generalized showing of tamper-indicating means for insertion in the closures of Figs. 1 or 5.

-Fig. 7 shows an application tool for use in inserting the Fig. 6 tamper-indicating means in a closure.

Fig. 8 is an elevation of a tine of the Fig. 5 closure as would be seen from plane III-III of Fig. 1.

Fig. 9 is a side elevation of the Fig. 8 tine.

Fig. 10 is a partial sectional view as would be seen from the Fig. 8 perspective of one assembly of the Fig. 5 closure and a tamper-indicating element.

Fig. 11 is a partial sectional view as would be seen from the Fig. 8 perspective of another assembly of the Fig. 5 closure and a tamper-indicating element.

Figs. 12, 14 and 16 show varieties of tamper-indicating laminates for use in practicing the invention.

Figs. 13, 15 and 17 show partial sectional views as would be seen from the Fig. 8 perspective of assemblies of the Fig. 5 closure and the laminates of Figs. 12, 14 and 16, respectively.

Fig. 18 is an elevation of a further tine embodiment.

Fig. 19 is a side elevation of the Fig. 18 tine.

Fig. 20 is a front elevation of the cap of another embodiment.

Fig. 21 is a partially cut away elevation of the cap of Fig. 20 showing interior detail.

Fig. 22 is a repetitive view of the Fig. 21 cap, but in embodiment including a separate container access port sealing layer.

Fig. 23 is sectional elevation of an embodiment of a tamper sentry in accordance with the invention.

Fig. 24 is plan view of the Fig. 23 sentry in operative assembly with a tamper-indicating closure.

Fig. 25 is a sectional view of the Fig. 24 assembly, further assembled with a container.

Fig. 26 is an enlarged partial section of the Fig. 24 assembly showing respective engagement surfaces of the cap and sentry.

Fig. 27 is an enlarged partial sectional view of a further closure member of the invention.

Fig. 28 is a sectional view of a closed container inclusive of the Fig. 27 closure.

Fig. 29 is a plan elevation of another closure member in accordance with the invention.

Fig. 30 is a sectional view of the Fig. 29 closure member as would be seen from plane XXX-XXX of Fig. 30.

Fig. 31 is a plan elevation of a teltale for use with the Fig. 29 closure member.

Fig. 32 is a sectional view of the Fig. 31 teltale as would be seen from plane XXXII-XXXII of Fig. 31.

Fig. 33 is a sectional view of an assembly of the Fig. 29 closure member and the Fig. 31 teltale.

Fig. 34 is a partial sectional elevation of the Fig. 33 assembly as would be seen from plane XXXIV-XXXIV of Fig. 29.

Fig. 35 is a vastly enlarged partial sectional elevation of the assembly of the Fig. 29 closure and Fig. 31 teltale with a container as would be seen from plane XXXV-XXXV of Fig. 29.

Fig. 36 is a repeat showing of Fig. 35 following initial opening of the container, removal of the teltale from the closure, and resecurement of the closure member to the container.

Fig. 37 is an exploded view of another container in accordance with the invention with the cap and jar neck sectioned as would be seen from plane XXXVII-XXXVII of Fig. 41 and with the teltale shown without sectioning.

Fig. 38 is an assembled view of the Fig. 37 container parts with sectioning as in Fig. 37.

Fig. 39 is a repeat showing of the Fig. 38 assembly with cap partially unthreaded from the jar neck.

Fig. 40 is an enlarged showing of the teltale assembly of Figs. 37-39.

Fig. 41 is a top plan view of the container in its Fig. 38 disposition.

Fig. 42 is a repeat showing of Fig. 41 with the cap rotated in container opening sense through angle Z of Fig. 41.

Fig. 43 is a top plan view of the container in its Fig. 39 disposition and rotated through further angle Y of Fig. 42.

Fig. 44 is a top plan view of another closure member in accordance with the invention.

Fig. 45 is a sectional view of the Fig. 44 closure as would be seen from plane II-II of Fig. 44, showing an illustrative one of the plural cap ribs 528.

Fig. 46 is a top plan view of a vessel for use in situations in which an adhesive or other bonding agent is indesired as between the vessel neck and the teltale.

Fig. 47 is a sectional view of the Fig. 46 vessel as would be seen from plane XLVII-XLVII of Fig. 46.

Fig. 48 is an enlarged partial view of the Fig. 47 vessel showing.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS AND PRACTICES

[0025] Referring to Figs. 1 through 4, closure or cap 10 includes a closure member 12 having depending skirt 12a and interior threading 14 with lower opening 16. The cap defines closing expanse comprising skirt 12a and the undersurface 12b of cap 10, for registry with the neck and mouth of a jar or like container having an access opening for obtaining its contents.

[0026] Interiorly of such closing expanse, cap 10 includes one or more tines, three being shown as 18a, 18b and 18c, comprising puncturing and tearing or rupturing elements spaced at equal angles. Each tine may be formed integrally with cap 10, e.g., is molded therewith, and is rigid, such that it is not readily deflectable relative to cap undersurface 12b. The tines may be parts of an insert to cap 10, which is secured therein for movement therewith. Based upon its secured relation to cap 10, each tine travels with the cap in the course of its first sense (clockwise) movement into releasably secured relation with the jar neck and also in the course of second opposite sense (counterclockwise) cap movement relative to the jar for release from such secured relation therewith.

[0027] Cap 10 is desirably formed of optically clear plastics of butyrate, acetate, nylon, lucite and plexiglass and the like. The jar for use with cap 10 is preferably made of glasser thermoplastics such as will provide a barrier to covert penetration, such as by use of a hypodermic needle. High impact styrene is suitable.

[0028] Considering the configuration of tine 18c, shown in Figs. 3 and 4, same includes a vertically extending radially outward wall 20, terminating in inverse V-shaped groove or rupturing channel 22, bounded by surfaces 24a and 24b, each forming angle A (forty-five degrees) with the central vertical axis 26 thereof. The channel extends radially inwardly and upwardly to interior wall 28 at angle B (thirty degrees).

[0029] Referring now to Fig. 5, cap 30 has skirt 32, interior threading 34, interior cap undersurface 30a and supports tines 36a, 36b and 36c, extending in the direction of lower opening 38.

[0030] It will be observed that each of tines 18a-c and 36a-c is radially offset from the center of the rotative movements of caps 10 and 30 and that each extends generally parallel to the axis of the hollow cylindrical cap. Each tine is also disposed radially of the rotation center, thus having extent generally radial to provide a frontal expanse for rupturing or tearing of a member penetrated thereby.

[0031] In Figs. 8 and 9, the configuration of tines 36a-c will be seen to involve an asymmetry about axis 40. _V-shaped configuration is defined by tapered sidewalls 42 and 44, the former starting its taper at location 42a, higher than that 44a for the latter. Both taper at angle C (thirty degrees) and incline radially inwardly upwardly from outward wall 45 to interior wall 46 at angle D (thirty degrees). The asymmetry gives rise to a preferential directional deformation of tines as indicated for tine 36c in Fig. 10 upon assembly as now discussed.

[0032] Referring to Fig. 6, tamper indication means 48 is a generally flat disk which may be comprised of a layer of foam alone, e.g., styrene based plastic foam. Assembly tool 50 (Fig. 7) includes a backing member 52, being rigid in practice under present discussion, e.g., a metal cylinder, for receiving layer means 48 on its upper surface 52a and is movable in direction E for inserting layer means 50 into opening 38 of cap 30.

[0033] Fig. 10 shows the assembly resulting from such insertion practice with a rigid backing member. In this assembly, the entirety of tine 36c is situate in layer means 48, with end portion 36c-l of the tine positioned in spaced relation to layer means undersurface 48a and with the tine defining a generally hooked shaped at its end portion 36c-l, such hook being in retentive relation to layer means 48 and extending in direction F, i.e., the direction of opening movement (counterclockwise rotation) of cap 30. As such, the tine is disposed to enhance tearing of layer means 48 in the course of opening movement of cap 30 and accordingly is adapted to heighten tamper indication. As is also evident from Fig. 10, tine 36c is. so deformed that reuse of the cap by a would-be tamperer is negated.

[0034] Layer means 48 may carry on its undersurface a marginal ring 53 of contact-activated adhesive, or same may be applied to the jar mouth, whereby the Fig. 10 assembly has jar securement. With tine 36c spaced from such undersurface, ruptured fragments of layer means 50 may be removed upon container opening without entering the container.

[0035] Backing member 52 may, if desired, be a compressible member, e.g., rubber, to reach the assembly shown in Fig. ll. Here, a major extent of tine 36c is situate in layer means 48 (more than half of its vertical extent), thus enhancing teletale rupture. Retention is effected by the remnant of tine 36c exteriorly situated with respect to layer means 48.

[0036] While the teltale or tamper indication means has been discussed as constituted by foam for layer means 48, the invention contemplates various other teltales, some of which are seen in Figs. 12, 14 and 16. In Fig. 12, the teltale comprises foam layer 54 in assembly with overlayer 56 of metal foil, defining laminate 58. Practice of the Fig. 10 method, i.e., rigid backing member, gives rise to the assembly of Fig. 13, wherein tine 36c penetrates and is thus situate in both layers of the laminate.

[0037] In Fig._14, the laminate 60 comprises foam layer 62 and underlayer 64 constituting a container access port seal, e.g., glassine or like sealing layer. The assembly of Fig. 15 results, when the method of Fig. 10 is used, i.e., tine 36c penetrates and is resident in layer 62 and spaced from layer 64 and hence not violative of the integrity thereof.

[0038] In Fig. 16, the laminate 66 comprises foam layer 68 together with metal foil layer 70 intervening layer 68 and cap undersurface 30a and secured to one surface of layer 68, and with underlying glassine layer 72 secured to the side of layer 68 opposite such one surface thereof. In the resulting assembly (Fig. 17), again under the method of Fig. 10, tine 36c penetrates the metal foil layer 70 and foam layer 68 and is spacedly disposed relative to the glassine underlayer 72, which is securable to the jar mouth as above discussed.

[0039] Tines may take the further configuration shown in Figs. 18 and 19. Here, tine 74 is symmetrical about axis 76 and defines piercing apex 78 inclined radially inwardly upwardly between end walls 80 and 82.

[0040] In the embodiments of Figs. 14 and 16, the upper surfaces of container access port sealing layers of glassine or like dense paper are provided with coloration, e.g._; bright red, and the foam layers are of offset color, e.g., white, whereby a vivid teltale indication is provided as the closure member is rotated in the opening direction. With the major extent of the rupturing tearing tines effectively embedded in the foam layer, surety of tamper indication is effected. In fact, the securement aspect, whereby an interior glassine wafer is captured in a closure member through its adhesion to the captured foam gives the described methods utility in non-tamper indication applications, i.e., where it is desired to avoid customary release of container access port sealing layers from caps in shipment and handling.

[0041] Referring now to Figs. 20 and 21, closure 110 includes cap 112, preferably having vertical groupings of ribs 114 mutually spaced about the exterior ot the depending skirt of the cap. Cap l12 has interior threads 116 for securement to a container and includes tines 118 extending downwardly from the cap upper interior surface within the cap container closing expanse. A teltale 120, which may be paper sheet material, is secured to tines 118, which pierce through the teltale as it is forced thereover into the cap interior. Tines 118 are movable with cap 112, preferably being formed integrally therewith, and teltale 120 is movable by the tines with the cap as the cap is secured to a container. The cap is of see-through character, being of suitable translucent plastic or the like, such that the state of teltale 120 is visible through the cap.

[0042] In Fig. 22, closure 122 includes the foregoing structure in common with closure 110, and further has an access port sealing layer 124 secured at its periphery to teltale 120 after tines 118 are rolled over as indicated.

[0043] The tine rollover or staking step has benefit in enhancing the tearing thereof. Further, the step places the preassembly attained thereby in such posture that it may now receive an underlayer, as part of the cap as manufactured, having its integrity unaffected by activation of the teltale. Thus, with the tine ends now blunted and not having their prior puncturing and tearing capability below the teltale, jar mouth or container access port sealing layer 124 is isolated from the tines. Referring to Fig. 25, an adhesive 126 may be appied either to the mouth of container 128 or to the undersurface of layer 124, such that, upon securement of closure 122 to the jar by engagement of cap threads 116 with container neck threads 130, layer 124 becomes secured to the container and hence teltale 120 is rendered fixed relative to the container. Gripping of closure 122 and counterclockwise rotation thereof effects a tearing of teltale 120 and indicates initial opening of the container.

[0044] Referring to Fig. 23, tamper sentry 132 is in the form of an overcap 134, having a central opening 136 through its upper surface, depending skirt 138, generally horizontal endless ribs 140 and 142 and latch 144 adjacent opening 146. The overcap is so dimensioned as to be assembled with cap l12 as shown in Figs. 24 and 25, i.e., to vertically non-frictionally nest cap 112 therein and to latchingly retain same through latch 144, which extends radially interiorly of the periphery of cap 112. Ribs 140 and 142 engage only rib groupings 114 of cap 112, in the illustrated embodiment, as shown in the enlarged showing of Fig. 26, thereby substantially thwarting sufficient frictional interface between overcap 134 and tamper-indicating cap 122 for a human to rotate cap 122, absent prying off the overcap. Thus, the overcap is in secured circumscribing relation to the cap and is supported thereby for rotation. If the overcap is gripped by a would-be tamperer, there results a spinning thereof without movement of the cap and hence without activation of the teltale.

[0045] For such pry-off purpose, one may simply insert a tool, e.g., a screwdriver, into opening 136 and beneath overcap 134 and apply upward force to the overcap to overcome latch 144 and release the assembly. At that time, direct access may be had to cap 122. Such opening 136 in the overcap also serves the purpose of enabling visualization of the state of the tamper-indicating teltale 120.

[0046] Where the _teltale used in practicing the invention is in the configuration of a laminate or multilayer indicating-element, as in Figs. 12 and 16, i.e., including an upper foil member of highly tearable nature, or in the form of delicate sheet material, again quite readily tearable, practice as above discussed can present difficulty in assembly, particularly as the assembly of closure and teltale is rotated into securement with a container. Thus, the tines are alone in force-imposing relation to the teltale and alone carry it into desired position in the final assembly. In such cap closing sense movement, a point is reached at which the teltale is compressed between the cap and container, and at that juncture, resistance to further rotation is met. In overcoming such resistance, increased force is applied to the cap and transmitted through the tines to the delicate teltale, heightening the tendency for movement of the cap and tines relative to the teltale and at times tearing the teltale and rendering it ineffective for use.

[0047] In accordance with the invention, means are introduced in the closure for imparting force to the teltale at locations other than the tine-teltale interface, such introduced force being supportive of the tine-applied force and, in effect, load sharing therewith. In the embodiment of Figs. 44 and 45, cap 512 has formed integrally therein radially extending ribs 528, disposed outboard of tines 516 and at the interior periphery of cap 512. The ribs have generally vertical rises 528a at their cap clockwise sides, the rises extending downwardly from cap undersurface 512a, as is seen in Fig. 45 for the single such rib illustratively shown. The ribs have trailing ramps 528b at their cap counterclockwise sides. With this arrangement, the cap closing sense rotative movement is accompanied by forceful engagement of rib rises 528a with teltale element 520 at its upper surface along with the tines, effectively distributing the force applied to the teltale element and permitting use of delicate tamper-indicating elements as teltales, e.g., foils, thin paper and the like.. In reverse rotation, i.e., cap opening sense movement, ramps 528b ride over the teltale surface, and tearing is effected by the tines.

[0048] In the embodiment of force imposing/distributing means shown in Figs. 27 and 28 closure 230 includes cap or closure member 232 and a force-imparting member 234 is secured in the cap interior, adjacent cap undersurface 232a, and is preferably in the form of a ring in circumscribing non-interfering relation to tines 216. Member 234 is selected to be of plastic composition which is more compressible than the plastic material constituting cap 232 and is also selected, relative to teltale 220, to impart frictional force to the teltale upper surface upon compression of member 234 between cap 232 and teltale 220. The teltale is inserted in the cap to provide the assembly of Fig. 27 and the tines are staked as above discussed to provide the closure of Fig. 28, shown in secured engagement with jar 218 and having jar sealing member 226 in place. As will be seen from the sectional enlargement of Fig. 27, the undersurface 234a of member 234 is in force imposing/distributing relation with upper surface 220a of the teltale in the course of assembly reaching Fig. 28, wherein adhesive 236 secures the closure to the jar access port.

[0049] In this embodiment, upon initial opening of the Fig. 28 container, one may remove the torn teltale from the closure and remove layer 226 from the container to gain access to the contents of the container, but may reseal the container by virtue of the remaining presence of member 234 in the closure and its characteristic compressibility adapted also for direct sealing engagement of undersurface 234a with the container adjacent its access port.

[0050] Another closure embodiment with teltale protection character is shown in Figs. 29-36. Referring to Figs. 29 and 30, closure 310 includes cap or closure member 312, having skirt 312a and interior threads 314 for securement to a container and including tines 316 extending downwardly from cap upper interior surface 312b of cap top panel 312c and disposed within the cap container closing expanse, comprised of such skirt and top panel. Tines 316a-c, which may be one or more in number, are shown arranged as three puncturing elements spaced at equal angles.

[0051] Teltale 320 (Figs. 31 and 32) may be in configuration of a laminate or multilayer tamper-indicating element, including an upper foil member 322 of highly tearable nature, an intermediate layer 324 of foam or like compressible material and a lower layer 326 of dense paper, such as glassine.

[0052] Teltale 320 is assembled with cap 312 by inverting cap 312 from its Fig. 30 disposition, positioning teltale 320 in registry with cap open end 312d, applying a rigid tool, e.g., a metal cylinder, to layer 326 and forcing teltale 320 against cap top panel 312c. In the course of this last mentioned step, tines 316 are distorted within foam layer 324, as shown in sectional view of Fig. 34, i.e., tine 316b is flattened against glassine layer into boot-like configuration 316b-1 in foam layer 324 and is in penetrating relation to both foil layer 322 and foam layer 324. Layer 326 may include a teltale indicium 326a e.g., a red coloration, on its surface juxtaposed with foam layer 324.

[0053] In contrast to the force imparting means of Figs. 27 and 28, the means of Figs. 29 and 30 for such teltale protecting purpose effects displacement of the teltale into frictional engagement with the interior of the closure member skirt, which desirably has its surface confronting the displaced teltale formed in such manner as to heighten such frictional engagement. In this respect, it has been found that the same structure can both fulfull a reseal function as heretofore known, and, in further heretofore unknown and unexpected function, realize a teltale displacement and protection function, as is now discussed.

[0054] Referring again to Fig. 30, force imparting means in the form of a flexible cone 328 is integral with, or is otherwise fixed within, cap 312. Cone 328 commences at one end portion 330 coterminus with top panel 312c, at a location radially outward of the location of tines 316a-c, and extends in cantilevered manner to opposite end portion 332, which defines a flat horizontal surface 334, generally parallel to top panel 312c.

[0055] In the course of tool assembly of teltale 320 with cap 312, and with cap 312 equipped with means 328 as in Fig. means 328 engages teltale 320 and is deflected thereby, as is shown in Fig. 33, compressing foam layer 324. In such course of assembly, the foam layer expands from its compressed condition outboard of means 328 and thereby extends outwardly into engagement with the interior of skirt 312a juxtaposed with means 328. Skirt 312a is desirably provided with enhanced frictional surface in its portion juxtaposed with means 328, such as inwardly extending ribs or projection 336, which are arranged in spaced uniform fashion (Fig. 29) about the periphery of the cap. It is found that teltale 320 is forced to curl periphery upwardly and downwardly (Fig. 35) into engagement with projections 336.

[0056] In a different light, the foregoing structure has use generally in container closing aspect as an anti-backoff closure. By the term backoff is meant the undesirable self-loosening of a closure from securement with a container, such as happens with vibration in the course of shipment, with temperature change, etc. In known containers, one does not find anti-backoff structure, as is provided above, i.e., wherein (1) the closure member has a locked relation to the teltale, particularly by the tines and such described displacement of the teltale into engagement peripherally with projections 336 by means 328 compression of foam layer 234, and (2) a second interlock exists as between the teltale and the container through adhesive 340. In instances where tamper-evident aspect is not desired, one could employ an opaque cap with tines or other means securing the cap with a substitute for teltale 320, e.g., a compressible and outwardly displaceable member of non-tamper-indicating character.

[0057] While the foregoing discussion places teltale 320 in its Fig. 33 disposition by a teltale installation tool registering with end portion 332 of means 328 so as to provide such deflection thereof and compression of foam layers 324, the teltale may otherwise reach is its Fig. 33 disposition. Thus, teltale 320 may be secured to tines 316 by a-container, as is now discussed.

[0058] Referring to Fig. 35, deflection of means 328 may occur in the course of securement of cap 312 with container 318. Here, surface 338 of container 318 bounding its access port has adhesive 340 thereon and registers vertically with end portion 332 of means 328. As glassine layer 326 of teltale 320 engages adhesive 340, means 328 is deflected toward top panel 312c. End portion 324 bites into foil layer 322 and compresses foam layer 324 which expands rightwardly of its compressed area, thereby displacing teltale 320 outwardly into engagement with prejections 336.

[0059] Upon initial opening of the Fig. 35 capped container, teltale 320 is torn by tines 316, since teltale 320 is secured by adhesive 340 to container 318. The teltale is now removed from cap 312, i.e., by peeling same from tines 316. The teltale-less cap is seen in Fig. 36, which also shows the reseal capability of teltale protection means 328. Thus, flat surface 334 of end portion 332 is in sealed relation with surface 338 of container 318, desirably in flat horizontal disposition, generally parallel to top panel 312c, as indicated in Fig. 36..

[0060] Referring to Fig. 37, container 410 includes cap or closure member 412 of see-through plastic material having skirt 414 with interior threads 416. A circumferential bead 418 projects inwardly from skirt 414 with threads 416, but is fully horizontally disposed, and defines with undersurface 412a of the cap top 412b a recess or groove 420. Tines 422a, 422b and 422c (Fig. 5) are movable with cap 412 in its rotative movement. Each tine tapers to piercing apex as shown at 422a-1 and 422b-1 in Fig. 37 and is preferably of length below undersurface 418a less than the vertical run of recess 420.

[0061] The preferred structure of teltale assembly 424 is a laminate, as is seen in the enlarged view of Fig. 40. The laminate includes an uppermost compressible layer 426 of material, e.g., open cell styrofoam, which is rupturable and tearable by tines 422a-422c. This layer is desirably from thirty to thirty-five mils in thickness. A printed pattern is applied to top surface 426a of layer 426. A strip pattern adhesive 427 is applied to stiffening layer 428 for securement thereof to the undersurface of layer ₄26. This layer is comprised of a pressure-sensitive hot melt, available from Finley Adhesives, and may be about one mil in thickness. Assembly 424 is cylindrical or disk-shaped and the'individual strips, one identified at 427a, of the pattern adhesive layer are spaced from other strips and extend chordally of the cylinder. Stiffening layer 428 is comprised of a clear K-resin, available from Phillips 66 and is preferably from four to ten mils. The above-mentioned pressure-sensitive adhesive bonds layer 428 to teltale layer 430, which is a paper of about one mil in thickness. Bottom layer -432 is a one mill aluminum foil which is coated with general purpose polyethylene or Surlyn etc. Color and pattern features are significant, both from a security and control viewpoint and tamper indication viewpoint. Thus, the printed pattern on surface 426a is desirably a thin line green imprinting to impart an anti-counterfeit character to teltale assembly 424. Layer 426 is preferably white foam and the coloration of teltale paper layer 430 is desirably red on its surface facing clear stiffening layer 428.

[0062] Returning to Fig. 37, jar 434 is partially shown and has neck 436 with exterior threads 438. A layer 440 of controlled release type adhesive may be applied to the mouth of neck 436. In assembly of cap 412 and teltale assembly 424, cap 412 is inverted from its Fig. 1 orientation and teltale assembly 424 is forced against surface 412a of top panel 412 by a rigid, e.g., metal, backing member applied to layer 432 of assembly 424. Layer ₄26 is punctured by the tines and the tines are deformed in the foam, effecting retention of assembly 424 by the tines. The results of this operation are seen in Fig. 38, wherein teltale assembly 424 is nested in recess 420 and is held by the tines in preselected spaced vertical relation to bead 418, for purposes below discussed. _'

[0063] In the Fig. 38 showing, cap 412 is fully threaded in container closing sense (full clockwise movement as in Fig. 41). Layer 432 (Fig. 40) of teltale assembly 424 is secured to the mouth of neck 436 by adhesive layer 440 and the teltale assembly is thus anchored to both cap 412 and jar 434. Where layer 432 is polythylene-coated aluminum, or other compatible coating as above discussed, the latter anchoring is done preferably by induction heating of the aluminum foil, which directly bonds the coating to the container neck, without need for a separate adhesive.

[0064] Based upon the above-noted vertical spacing of teltale assembly 424 above bead 418 in Fig. 38, a measure of counterclockwise (opening sense) rotation of cap 412 can occur prior to any confrontational engagement of bead 418 with layer 432 and hence prior to any discontinuance of the anchoring of asembly 424 to the mouth of neck 436. During such measure of rotation, indicated as angle Z in Fig. 4, tines 422a, 422b and 422c tear through foam layer 426, giving rise to a revealing of teltale layer 430 in areas 442, 444 and 446 as shown in Fig. 42, and the presentation of the vivid red layer 430 through the white foam against the green line background atop foam layer 426.

[0065] In the course of further opening sense rotation of cap 412 from its Fig. 42 disposition, through angle Y, to its Fig. 43 disposition, bead 418 confrontingly engages the undersurface of layer 432 and applies upward camming force thereto. Thus, positive vertical upward displacement of bead 418, resulting from conversion of rotational cap movement to cap upward translation through engagement of threads 416 and 438, effects the discontinuance of the anchored relation as between teltale assembly 424 and jar 434. In this activity, tearing of layer 426 by tines 422a-422c ceases, since the teltale assembly 424 is now free to rotate with cap 412 and tines 422a-422c no longer have movement relative to assembly 424.

[0066] Various features attend the structure and activity at hand. At the outset, it is to be seen that the above-referenced alternative user preference is realized in that the teltale assembly, though bonded to the container to the point of cap opening, is retained with the cap after its activation on initial opening. Secondly, fragmentation or tearing of the foam layer 426 is spatially controlled, i.e., takes place only through angle Z of Fig. 41 or other angle as may be established by selection of the vertical spacing between teltale assembly layer 432 and rib 418. Thirdly, following from such controlled tearing of foam layer 426, reduced fragmentation is achieved and nigher probability of fragment containment within cap 412 is realized in the presence of effective tamper indication. Fourthly, reseal capability is present, since layer 432 is unaffected in these activities.

[0067] A teltale assembly design consideration, which assists in the realization of the features discussed immmediately above, is the character of layer 428 of teltale assembly 424. This layer is effective to withstand the camming force applied to the teltale assembly by bead 418 in the course of its release from jar 434, while at the same time retaining the cylindrical geometric configuration of assembly 424. In its functional configuration, assembly 424 will thus be seen to have an anti-counterfeit imprint atop a tine securement layer (layer 426), a layer for maintenance of structural integrity (layer 428), a teltale layer (layer 430) and sealing and reseal layer (layer 432).

[0068] In different aspect, cap 412 will be seen to have plural and successively operative means for retention of teltale assembly 424. Tines 422a-422c represent first means for teltale assembly retention, being imbedded in . layer 426 upon cap and teltale assembly. Bead 418 is inactive until such time as tines 422a-422c have ruptured layer 426 and lost retentive relation therewith, but follows teltale assembly 424 to retentively and continuingly engage the same following teltale activation.

[0069] While the invention has been described in the foregoing particularly described embodiments, various changes can be introduced by those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. Thus, the teltale can be in the multilayer form shown as element 320 and in other teltale configuration, for example, running from a single paper layer disrupted by the tines to other multilayer structures, e.g., wherein a foam layer is in immediate juxtaposition to the cap top panel and is supported by an encapsulated aluminum layer, the latter being in present commercial usage. Where the foam layer is opaque, the aluminum layer, or other underlying teltale is seen in its portions in registry with the translucent tines, when inactivated, and is highly visible upon activation. Another suitable teltale structure could see an upper paper layer, a foam layer, a lower paper layer and a lowermost layer comprising Surlan-coated aluminum foil. While engagement of the tines and teltale structure has been shown as involving penetration of the teltale by the tines, the invention contemplates also a surface joinder of the tines and teltale, e.g., the tines having surface engaging the teltale upper surface and such surfaces being heat bonded together. Further, while the depicted embodiments employ rotative closures having internal threads, the invention requires only that the closures be rotative for teltale activation. In the embodiment depicted last above, an alternative structure for teltale assembly 424 would be to form the teltale indication atop the stiffening layer, as by coloration on the upper surface thereof. The stiffening layer may now be constituted of opaque material, such as hardboard, since the teltale indication is not required to be seen therethrough as in the first discussed embodiment, wherein the stiffening layer of K-resin has see-through character.!

[0070] Referring to Figs. 46 through 48, another embodiment of the invention involves a tamper-indicative container having a vessel with facility for non-adhesive engagement with the container closure member. Vessel 610 includes a neck 612 bearing suitable cap securement threads 614 on its exterior surface and providing an access channel between the vessel mouth and vessel interior compartment 616. The vessel defines surface extent circumscribing the mouth, inclusive of peripheral teeth 618, a flat expanse 620 and vessel sealing surface 622.

[0071] As is indicated in the enlarged showing of Fig. 48, which depicts the upper right corner portion of Fig. 47, sealing surface 622 directly borders the mouth and is a flat annulus (Fig. 46). Flat expanse 620 is also an annulus, contiguous with sealing surface 622 and vertically recessed therebelow by dimension B. Expanse 620 extends to the root, i.e., the lower end of inclined surface 618b, of teeth 618. Each of teeth 618 also has an outer vertical side 618a, leading to a tooth peak, an interior side 618c which is substantially vertically disposed and another interior side 618d, which is inclined to the horizontal. In clockwise sense in Fig. 46, side 618c is clockwise leading, i.e., is spatially ahead in the sense that one o'clock is spatially ahead of twelve o'clock, and side 618d is clockwise lagging, sides 618c and 618d of each tooth intersecting at such tooth peak and otherwise throughout the length of inclined surface 618b. Teeth 618 will be seen to rise vertically above sealing surface 622 by a dimension equal to the difference between A and B and accordingly the teeth can penetrate a layer applied to surface extent 618-620-622 to the depth therein equal to such difference dimension. when the layer is in sealed relation with sealing surface extent 622. The full radial dimension of surface extent 618-620-622 is noted as F, equal subdimensions C, D and E applying to the radial dimension of sealing surface 622, recessed expanse 620 and teeth 618.

[0072] A preferred teltale for use in practice includes a compressible inner layer of open cell foam, an upper layer of metal foil and a lower layer of closed cell foam, suitable for sealing the vessel to which it is applied. The teltale is nested in cap 624 as above discussed in connection with Figs. 5-7.

[0073] As cap 624, with assembled teltale, is threaded onto vessel 610 at the point of initial closing of the container after content filling thereof, layer 640 rides relatively freely over ramp-like surfaces 618d of vessel 610 and ultimately, closure between cap 624 and vessel 610 is such that layer 640 abuts sealing surface 622 to effect sealing of the vessel. At this juncture, based on the increased height of teeth 618 above surface 622, and the vertical sides 618c of the teeth, the teeth take up residence in layer 640 in such manner that the teltale will be positively restrained from movement relative to vessel 610 in the initial course of opening movement (counterclockwise) of cap 624. There results consequently the required relative movement of the cap tines with respect to the teltale and visible rupturing thereof. The foam is torn through, exposing any desired tamper indicia placed on the upper surface of the closed cell layer of the teltale. In an alternative version of vessel structure, the peaks of teeth 618 could be radially outward of the roots thereof and at the same vertical elevation as the roots to effect like different engagement between the vessel and the teltale in respective different sense movements of the closure member. The particularly disclosed and described preferred embodiments are accordingly intended in an illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The true spirit and scope of the invention is set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A container closure (10, 30, 110, 122, 230, 310, 412) for providing tamper indication and characterized as having a closure member (12, 32, 112, 122, 232, 312, 412,-512) defining container closing expanse, a tamper-indicating element (48, 58, 60, 66, 120, 220, 320, 424) in said closure interiorly of said closure member and means (18a, 36a, 118, 216, 316b, 422a, 516) movable with said closure member for both retaining said tamper-indicating element with said closure member and for selectively tearing said tamper-indicating element, such movable means being inaccessible through said closing expanse of said closure member and said closure affording visibility therethrough of said tamper-indicating element.

2. The closure claimed in claim 1 wherein said movable means comprises at least one retaining-tearing member (18a, 36a, 118, 216, 316b, 422a, 516) extending from said closure member into engagement with said tamper-indicating element.

3. The closure claimed in claim 2 wherein said closure member is adapted for rotative first and second movements of respectively opposite sense and wherein said retaining-tearing member is radially offset from the rotation center of such first and second movements.

4. The closure claimed in claim 2 wherein said retaining-tearing member is integral with said closure member.

5. The closure claimed in claim 1 wherein said tamper-indicating element (120) has a first side in facing relation to said closing expanse of said closure and an opposite second side, said closure further including a container closure layer (124) secured to said opposite second side of said tamper-indicating element, said , container closure layer retaining its integrity in the course of such selective tearing of said tamper-indicating element.

6. The closure claimed in claim 5 wherein said movable means comprises at least one retaining-tearing member (118) extending from said closure member into engagement with said tamper-indicating element (120) and extending beyond said tamper-indicating element second side in non-tearing relation to said container closure layer.

7. The closure claimed in claim 1 wherein said tamper-indicating element includes a compressible layer (48, 54, 62, 68, 324, 426), said movable means having at least the major extent thereof situtate within said compressible layer.

8. The closure claimed in claim 7 wherein said tamper-indicating element further includes a container access port sealing layer (53, 64, 72, 326, 432) secured to said compressible layer.

9. The closure claimed in claim 1 wherein said closure member includes a cap and an overcap, said cap, being rotatably nested within said overcap and releasably latchingly secured therein, whereby said cap is isolated from input movement to said closure member.

10. The closure claimed in claim 1 wherein said closure member includes force-imparting means (234, 328, 336, 528) secured to said closure member for movement therewith, said force-imparting means being situated between said tamper-indicating element and said closure member closing expanse and adapted to impart force to said tamper-indicating element at a location thereon distal from the location of engagement of said tamper-indicating element and said movable means, thereby to displace said tamper-indicating element jointly with said movable means. in the course of movement of said closure into securement with such container.

11. The closure claimed in claim 10 wherein said tamper-indicating element is removable from said closure and wherein said force-imparting means (234, 328) further defines a container access port sealing surface upon removal of said tamper-indicating element from said closure.

12. The closure claimed in claim 1 wherein said closure member is inclusive of a top panel (312c) having said container closing expanse and a skirt (312a) depending therefrom, said closure member further including force-imparting (328) means for movement with said closure member and selectively engageable with said tamper-indicating element for imparting movement thereto toward said skirt.

13. The closure claimed in claim 12 wherein said deflectable member is a conical member integral with said top panel and wherein said tamper-indicating element is removable from said.closure, said conical member defining container sealing surface extending generally parallel to. said top panel upon such removal of said tamper-indicating element from said closure..

14. The closure claimed in-claim 13 wherein said closure member further includes a series of inwardly extending projections in juxtaposition with said force-imparting means for engaging said tamper-indicating element upon such movement thereof by said force-imparting means.

15. The closure claim in claim 1 wherein said closure member is inclusive of a top panel (512) having interior surface defining said container closing expanse, said top panel including at the inner periphery thereof means for imparting force to said tamper-indicating element and comprising a plurality of projections (5.28) each having one side (528a) extending perpendicular to said surface and a second side (528b) inclined relative to said surface.

16. The closure claimed in claim 1 wherein said closure member includes further means (418) for engaging said tamper-indicating element (424) selectively following such tearing thereof for retaining said tamper-indicating element with said closure.

17. The closure claimed in claim 16 wherein said tamper-indicating element comprises a rupturable and tearable layer (426), said first-mentioned means (422a) being secured in said rupturable and tearable layer, a stiffening layer (428) juxtaposed with said rupturable and tearable layer, a teltale layer (430) juxtaposed with said stiffening layer and exposed therethrough upon tearing of said rupturable and tearable layer by said first-mentioned means, and a container sealing layer (432) juxtaposed with said teltale layer.

18. The closure claim in claim 1 wherein said closure member is inclusive of a top panel (512) having interior surface defining said container closing expanse, said top panel including at the inner periphery thereof means for imparting force to said tamper-indicating element and comprising a plurality of projections (528) each having one side (528a) extending perpendicular to said surface and a second side (528b) inclined relative to said surface.

19. A container including the closure claimed in claim 1 and a vessel (610) having a neck (612) terminating in a vessel mouth and defining surface extent (618-620-622) circumscribing said mouth and inclusive of vessel sealing surface (622)-, said neck having closure member securing _' means (614) thereon, said closure member having interior means (14) cooperative with said securing means for movement of said closure member in a first sense for securement to said neck and for closure of said mouth and in second opposite sense for removal of said closure member from said neck, said vessel surface extent being adapted for engaging said tamper-indicating element and configured (618) to effect first and second different engagements therewith respectively in the course of said first and second sense movements, thereby to permit said tamper-indicating element to be moved into closure relation with said sealing surface and to be selectively positively restrained from movement relative to said mouth in the initial phase of said second sense closure member movement.

20. The container claimed in claim 19 wherein said vessel surface extent includes tooth means (618) outwardly of said sealing surface for effecting such selective positive restraint of movement of said tamper-indicating element.

Drawing