Safety closure for container

Abstract

 A security cap (100) includes a cap body (110) having a base portion and an upstanding wall (113) extending longitudinally upward from a top edge thereof. An actuator (120) is assembled within an interior of the upstanding wall (113), the actuator (120) being longitudinally movably and axially rotatable enabling cycling between a locked state and an unlocked state. The safety cap further includes a nozzle extension (400) that is removably adaptable to the dispensing nozzle of the safety cap. The nozzle extension includes an elongated tubular section having a coupling formation (422) provided at a coupling end and a dispensing formation provided at a dispensing end. The dispensing formation (440) comprises an atomizer projection located within a central portion of a tubular channel within the elongated tubular section, wherein the atomizer projection disburses the flowing fluid about a discharge section. The dispensing formation further comprises an end or outer wall having an orifice outlet provided centrally therethrough.

Description

Related US Patent Applications

[0001] This is a Continuation-In-Part Patent Application claiming the benefit of co-pending Non-Provisional U.S. Patent Application Serial Number 13/411,521, filed on March 03, 2012, which is incorporated in its entirety by reference herein.

Field of the Invention

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of product dispensing pumps, and more particularly to a safety closure comprising a multi-element security cap which requires two independent motions to dispense the product and an elongated nozzle extension for efficient application of the product.

Background of the Invention

[0003] Over the years many types of dispensing containers have been developed that provide a security feature to prevent undesired and unsafe dispensing of a product contained therein. These containers may store products such as cleaners, lotions, insect repellant, medications, sanitizers and the like, which may be dispensed as desired for use. However, there are many instances where dispensing of the product may be toxic or harmful to a person. A primary example would be when a small child inadvertently gains access to a dispensing container storing a toxic substance. In this situation it is advantageous to have a closure such as cap or lid on the dispensing container that prevents the child from obtaining the toxic substance from within the container. By doing so, this prevents unwanted ingestion of the product by the child and/or undesired application/spillage of the product.

[0004] A variety of child-resistant closures are known to exist. Generally these include various threaded caps that cooperate with a corresponding container to prevent removal of the cap without first performing a secondary task that disengages a portion of the cap from a portion of the container. While this known solution is somewhat useful, it presents drawbacks. The safety function of this known solution may be overcome by simply forcing the cap to turn with respect to the container. The threaded solutions are not easily adaptable to pump and/or aerosol dispensers.

[0005] Another known solution provides a one-time locking apparatus that also provides a user with evidence of tampering. The locking/child-resistance feature is generally only applicable for the initial use, wherein any subsequent access to the product is without hindrance. While this solution is somewhat useful, it presents a significant drawback of only providing protection from access to undesired/unsafe products for the first use only. In the situation where the product is a single-dose this may be beneficial. Conversely, once the one-time locking feature is removed from a container storing a quantity of product for multiple doses, , the housed product may be undesirably accessed by an unintended person such as a child.

[0006] In a further known solution, a pump assembly attached or integrated into a bottle. A pump actuator is provided to operate the pump for dispensing of a product housed within the bottle. The pump actuator assembly includes a dispensing actuator locking interface which governs vertical motion of the pump actuator. The dispensing actuator locking interface includes a projecting locking feature extending outward from an upper portion of the pump actuator. The projecting locking feature is retained in a locked configuration by an engagement edge of an actuator control feature. The projecting locking feature disengages from the actuator control feature by rotating the pump actuator. Rotation of the pump actuator is restricted by a rotation locking member extending hingeably outward from the pump actuator. The rotation locking member engages with a locking wall, wherein the locking wall is a vertical edge provided in an upstanding wall circumscribing the pump actuator. The rotation locking member configuration presents several limitations. The rotation locking member is an integral feature of the pump actuator, wherein combined into a uniform construction, being formed during the same molding process. The rotation locking member is hingeably attached to the pump actuator using living hinge technology integrated into the molding process and material selection. This configuration risks damage to the hinge, where the rotation locking member can become detached from the pump actuator. Once the rotation locking member is detached, the rotation locking member no longer provides the intended locking function. Since the pump actuator and rotation locking member are fabricated having a uniform construction, the material selection for each feature is not optimized. The hinge portion requires a high spring constant and reduced brittle nature, whereas the pump actuator portion requires a more rigid material. The design of the rotation locking member, including geometry, size, and location, is limited by the inclusion of the hinge. The design limitations restrict the effectiveness of the rotation locking member. This also contributes to the forces required to adequately depress the locking member. A person with limited strength or mobility may find it difficult to apply the force required to depress the locking member. Since the pump actuator and rotation locking member are fabricated having a uniform construction, they are manufactured of the same colored material. This conceals the rotation locking member from the user. This is particularly important for sight impaired individuals, such as the elderly.

[0007] Another drawback in the prior art, particularly for oral medications, is inefficient application of the dispensed product or oral medication. Specifically, some oral medications are required to be directly applied to the throat or tonsil area. Nevertheless, a nozzle that is attached to the edge of a dispensing container and sprayed into a user's mouth may be applied mostly to the user's tongue. If the user raises his or her tongue, very little to none of the medication may reach a user's throat or tonsil area. In addition, it is desirable to efficiently distribute the product over a desired surface area. Some nozzles produce very little atomization of the product, pinstead, directing a narrow stream of liquid onto a surface. Thus, the product is not efficiently applied to the desired surface area. This results in product waste, higher costs to the user due to the necessity for more medication, and prolonged illness due to improper application of the medication.
Efforts to provide an improved child-resistant closure and nozzle extension that overcomes the drawbacks in the prior art have not met with significant success to date. As a result, there is a need in the art for an improved child-resistant closure that provides reliable locking of the closure to prevent undesired dispensing, that enables the use of different materials between the locking feature and the primary components of the closure, and that provides a convenient cost effective way to color code various elements of the child-resistant closure. And there is a need in the art for an improved nozzle extension that allows for more direct and efficient application of products to desired areas.

Summary of the Invention

[0008] The basic inventive concept provides a child-resistant locking interface that restricts operation of a dispensing element of a container and provides an improved nozzle extension for efficient application of the product. The locking interface is designed to prevent undesired dispensing while enabling a design having optimized geometries and fabrication of differing materials for the various components.

[0009] A first aspect of the present invention provides a safety closure system comprising:

a body cap which is one of configured to couple with the dispensing container and integrated into the dispensing container, the body cap comprising an upstanding wall having at least one recess partially bound by a vertical edge, wherein the vertical edge defines a pushbutton locking edge;

a rotating actuator comprising an internal cavity, the rotating actuator rotatably assembled within the body cap to rotatably cycle the rotating actuator between a locked position to avoid dispensing of material from within the container and an unlocked, dispensing position enabling dispensing of material from within the container; and

a rotation locking member comprising an arched segment and a push button extending outward from a convex surface of the arched segment, wherein the rotation locking member is operationally assembled within the actuator internal cavity and the push button engages with the vertical edge to restrict a rotational motion of the rotating actuator until the push button is subjected to a compression force which positions the push button inward, clearing the vertical edge, thus enabling rotation of the rotating actuator.

[0010] A second aspect of the present invention incorporates a projecting locking feature extending radially outward therefrom;
the body cap further comprising an actuator limit stop, wherein the projecting locking feature engages with the actuator limit stop restricting a longitudinal motion of the rotating dispensing actuator until the rotating dispensing actuator is rotated into the unlocked, dispensing position where the projecting locking feature to a position disengaging from the actuator limit stop, thus enabling the longitudinal motion of the rotating dispensing actuator.

[0011] In yet another aspect, the safety closure is coupled to a dispensing container, the dispensing container comprising a container body defining an interior volume having a dispensing orifice.

[0012] In yet another aspect, the safety closure is located in dispensing communication with a dispensing orifice of a dispensing container.

[0013] In yet another aspect, the push button engages with a pushbutton locking edge to retain the rotating dispensing actuator in a locked position.

[0014] In yet another aspect, the rotating dispensing actuator further comprises a fixed feature formed within the internal cavity, wherein the fixed feature operatively engages with a biasing end of the rotation locking member when the push button is depressed placing the rotation locking member into the unlocked, dispensing position.

[0015] In yet another aspect, the safety closure further comprises a dispensing mechanism coupled to the cap body,
wherein the dispensing mechanism is actuated by a longitudinal motion of the rotating dispensing actuator, and
the dispensing mechanism dispenses contents stored within the container through a discharge port formed within the rotating dispensing actuator.

[0016] In yet another aspect, the rotating dispensing actuator is fabricated of a material having a first color and the rotation locking member is fabricated of a material having a second color, wherein the first color and the second color are different.

[0017] In yet another aspect, a nozzle extension for dispensing a fluid to a desired area, the nozzle extension comprising:

an elongated tubular apparatus, the elongated tubular apparatus having an attachment interface located at an attachment end of the nozzle extension, the attachment interface defining a cavity for removeably connecting a discharge port of a dispensing container to the elongated tubular apparatus of the nozzle extension, and an elongated tube defining a hollow tubular channel; and

an atomizer nozzle, the atomizer nozzle comprising an atomizer nozzle housing extending outwardly and upwardly from an edge of an exit end of the elongated tube, the atomizer nozzle housing forming a cylindrical wall surrounding an atomizer projection,

an atomizer projection, extending outwardly and upwardly from one portion of the exit end of the elongated tube, the atomizer projection forming a solid cylindrical wall that substantially blocks a fluid passageway from the exit end of the elongated tube into an entrance of the atomizer nozzle, for substantially reducing a cross-sectional area of the fluid passageway, and

an atomizer insert having a circular outer wall and a side wall, the side wall extending from an edge of the outer wall and the outer wall having a discharge orifice, the atomizer insert being sized and shaped to fit securely in a cavity bound by the cylindrical wall formed by the atomizer nozzle housing;

wherein the elongated tubular apparatus and the atomizer nozzle are in fluid communication with each other and
wherein the cylindrical wall formed by the atomizer nozzle housing, the outer wall and side wall of the atomizer insert, and the solid cylindrical wall defined by the atomizer projection, form a narrow chamber for the fluid to travel, the chamber being configured to provide a channel that is narrower than the hollow tubular channel, the chamber having a "U" shaped cross-sectional configuration, wherein the discharge orifice is located at a center of the "U" shaped cross-sectional configuration, allowing the fluid to flow evenly over and around the atomizer projection and out through the discharge orifice as pressurized spray droplets.

[0018] In yet another aspect, the atomizer nozzle housing is sized and shaped to possess a cross-sectional area that is sufficient to prevent a user from swallowing the atomizer nozzle.

[0019] In yet another aspect, the discharge orifice is funnel shaped, having a broader diameter section located on an interior surface of the outer wall and a narrower diameter section located on an exterior surface of the outer wall.

[0020] In yet another aspect, the longitudinal length of the hollow tubular channel is configured for insertion of the nozzle extension into a mouth of an average adult, for efficient and comfortable application of the fluid onto at least one of the throat and tonsil area of the adult.

[0021] In yet another aspect, the longitudinal length of the hollow tubular channel is configured for insertion of the nozzle extension into a mouth of an average child, for efficient and comfortable application of the fluid onto at least one of the throat and tonsil area of the child.

[0022] In yet another aspect, the nozzle extension is fabricated to be removeably attached to the safety closure of the dispensing container.

[0023] In yet another aspect, the nozzle extension further comprises an elongated tube that is gradually tapered from an entry end of the elongated tube to an exit end of the elongated tube, wherein the cross-sectional area of the entry end of the elongated tube is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the exit end of the elongated tube.

[0024] These and other advantages of the invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following written specification, claims and appended drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. The invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0026] FIG. 1 presents an elevation view of an exemplary embodiment of a child-resistant dispenser or security cap assembled to a container;

[0027] FIG. 2 presents an elevation view of the child-resistant closure introduced in FIG. 1 further including motion indicator arrows representing the motions required to unlock the child-resistant closure;

[0028] FIG. 3 presents an isometric view of the child-resistant closure introduced in FIG. 1, wherein a projecting locking feature extending radially outward from the outer surface of the actuator and engages with an actuator limit stop placing the child-resistant closure into a locked state as shown;

[0029] FIG. 4 presents an isometric view of the child-resistant security cap moved from a locked state as illustrated in FIG. 3 to an unlocked state, wherein the projecting locking feature is rotated to align with a vertical actuation enabling clearance formed into a portion of the cap body as shown, enabling vertical motion of the pump actuator;

[0030] FIG. 5 presents an isometric view of the child-resistant closure after being rotated into an unlocked state, wherein the rotating dispensing actuator enables vertical motion of the pump actuator;

[0031] FIG. 6 presents a cross-sectional side view of the child-resistant closure, the section being taken along line 6--6 of FIG. 4;

[0032] FIG. 7 presents a bottom isometric view of an exemplary rotation locking member;

[0033] FIG. 8 presents a bottom isometric view of the rotating dispensing actuator having the rotation locking member operatively assembled therein;

[0034] FIG. 9 presents a bottom view of the rotation locking member operatively assembled within the rotating dispensing actuator, wherein the rotation locking member is shown in a locked state; and

[0035] FIG. 10 presents a bottom view of the rotation locking member operatively assembled within the rotating dispensing actuator, wherein the rotation locking member in shown in an unlocked state.

[0036] FIG. 11 presents a sectioned elevation view of an alternative embodiment of a child-resistant dispenser or security cap assembled to a container introducing an exemplary nozzle extension attached thereto, the section being taken along line 6--6 of FIG. 4;

[0037] FIG. 12 presents an isometric view the nozzle extension introduced in FIG. 11;

[0038] FIG. 13 presents a sectioned side view of the nozzle extension, the section being taken along line 13--13 of FIG. 11; and

[0039] FIG. 14 presents an enlarged isometric sectioned side view of a dispensing portion of the nozzle extension, the section being taken along line 13--13 of FIG. 11, the illustration includes motion indicating arrows representing the flow of fluid through the nozzle extension.

[0040] In the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding elements throughout the different views of the drawings.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0041] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word "exemplary" or "illustrative" means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any implementation described herein as "exemplary" or "illustrative" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. In other implementations, well-known features and methods have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention. For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "front", "back", "vertical", "horizontal", and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 1. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments that may be disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0042] An exemplary safety closure 100 is illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 10. The access-safety closure 100 can be coupled to or integrated with a container 200 forming a child-resistant package or C-R package as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. The safety closure 100 is used to reduce the risk of children ingesting dangerous items. Child-resistant packaging is required by regulation for prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, pesticides, and household chemicals. The 100 would be applicable for any pump or aerosol dispensed composition.

[0043] The container 200 is configured as a storage vessel defining a volumetric space therein capable of holding a defined volume of a fluid or a defined quantity of dispensable product. The safety closure 100 includes a cylindrical cap body 110, a rotating dispensing actuator 120, and a rotation locking member 130. In combination, to actuate the locking features of the safety closure 100, a user applies an inwardly directed force (as indicated by an arrow representative of an inward motion 210 illustrated in FIG. 2) such that rotation locking member 130 becomes displaced into a central cavity within the rotating dispensing actuator 120, thereby permitting the rotating dispensing actuator 120 to rotate (as indicated by an arrow representative of a rotational motion 220 illustrated in FIG. 2) within the cap body 110. The safety closure 100 is preferably coupled to an upper end 202 of the container 200, wherein the safety closure 100 includes a mechanism for dispensing the contents stored within the container 200. The cap body 110 can be integrated into the container 200 or fabricated as a separate assembly and subsequently attached thereto. The coupling between the safety closure 100 and container 200 may be one of several well-known assembly methods such as a screw-top interface, a press-fit interface, a snap-on interface, a welded interface, and the like. One of ordinary skill in the art would readily appreciate any suitable method can be utilized for combining the safety closure 100 and the container 200.

[0044] The cylindrical cap body 110 includes a base portion 111 and an upstanding wall 113. The base portion 111 has a height spanning between a bottom edge 112 and a base portion upper edge 114. The upstanding wall 113 extends upward from the base portion upper edge 114. The upstanding wall 113 is generally cylindrical in shape, having a thin wall and a plurality of relief cuts formed therein. The upstanding wall 113 is bounded between an upstanding wall top edge 105 and the base portion upper edge 114. The upstanding wall 113 includes a first relief cut that extends from the upstanding wall top edge 105 towards the base portion upper edge 114 to thereby form a horizontally arranged actuator limit stop 116. The actuator limit stop 116 prevents downward movement of the rotating dispensing actuator 120 when the rotating dispensing actuator 120 is rotated into a locked configuration as indicated by locking rotational motion 230 shown in FIG. 3. Actuator limit stop 116 provides an actuation governing engagement edge 117 that is configured to engage with a portion of the rotating dispensing actuator 120 when rotated into a locked state. The rotating dispensing actuator 120 includes an upper surface 121. The rotating dispensing actuator 120 additionally includes a projecting locking feature 123 outwardly extending from an upper edge 122 of the rotating dispensing actuator 120. The projecting locking feature 123 is designed to engage with the actuation governing actuation governing engagement edge 117 when rotated into a locked position, and disengage therefrom when rotated into a unlocked, dispensing position. The upstanding wall 113 further includes a second relief cut that extends from the upstanding wall top edge 105 towards the base portion upper edge 114 to thereby form a actuation enabling clearance 118 which provides a recess for a portion of rotating dispensing actuator 120 when rotated into an unlocked position as illustrated in FIG. 4. The user must depress the rotation locking member 130 wherein that rotation locking member 130 becomes displaced behind the upstanding wall 113, enabling the rotation locking member 130 to be rotated past the pushbutton locking edge 119. This enables the rotating dispensing actuator 120 to be rotated into the unlocked state as indicated by unlocking rotational motion 240 shown in FIG. 4.

[0045] In the exemplary embodiment, the first relief cut recess forming the actuator limit stop 116 transcends a longitudinal distance (as aligned with longitudinal axis 115) from the upstanding wall top edge 105 towards the base portion upper edge 114 to a depth point that operatively engages with the projecting locking feature 123. The actuator limit stop 116 is positioned to engage with the projecting locking feature 123 when the rotating dispensing actuator 120 is at an uppermost portion of a dispensing stroke. A second relief cut recess forming actuation enabling clearance 118 can be positioned in arcuate alignment with the first relief cut recess forming actuator limit stop 116 and circumferentially extending from one end of the first relief cut. The second relief cut transcends downward from the upstanding wall top edge 105 a longitudinal distance (as aligned with the longitudinal axis 115) that is substantially equal to a dispensing stroke required to actuate the dispensing mechanism 320 (described in greater detail below with reference to FIG. 6).

[0046] The rotating pump actuator 120 is disposed within the cap body 110 and is configured for two (2) directions of motion: (1) a slidable movement parallel to the longitudinal axis 115 and (2) a rotational motion about the longitudinal axis 115. The projecting locking feature 123 is preferably configured as a plurality of rectangular blocks that extend radially outward from rotating dispensing actuator 120. The plurality of rectangular blocks provides a gripping surface for engagement with the user's finger. In an alternate embodiment, projecting locking feature 123 may be configured as a unitary protrusion. The projecting locking feature 123 may include a textured surface to provide an increased frictional interface to aid in the rotational motion.

[0047] As illustrated in the exemplary embodiment, the projecting locking feature 123 is substantially similar in arc distance to the overall arc distance of actuation enabling clearance 118. Additionally, the arc distance of projecting locking feature 123 combined with the arc distance of the rotation locking member 130 is preferably similar to the combined arc distance 125 of the actuation enabling clearance 118 and the actuator limit stop 116. When the safety closure 100 is placed into an unlocked position as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the rotating dispensing actuator 120 may be longitudinally depressed such that the projecting locking feature 123 is permitted to travel longitudinally within the actuation enabling clearance 118. At the bottom of the displacement of rotating dispensing actuator 120, the projecting locking feature 123 engages with an actuation stop edge 126 of the actuation enabling clearance 118. As a result of the longitudinal displacement of rotating dispensing actuator 120 within cap body 110, a dispensing mechanism (described below with reference to FIG. 6) may be actuated to dispense a fluid or product stored within container 200.

[0048] A nozzle clearance section 127 is formed in a region of the upstanding wall 113 as identified in FIG. 5. The nozzle clearance section 127 is preferably located on the upstanding wall 113 at an area that is opposite from the actuation enabling clearance 118 and extends downward from the upstanding wall top edge 105 towards the base portion upper edge 114. The nozzle clearance section 127 transcends a longitudinal distance that is sufficient to permit discharge from a nozzle/discharge port 300 of the rotating dispensing actuator 120 during the dispensing stroke. The nozzle clearance section 127 is designed to provide a clearance for discharge of a fluid or product from the container 200 through a nozzle or discharge port 300 (FIG. 6) throughout the dispensing stroke of the rotating dispensing actuator 120.

[0049] Details of an exemplary pump are presented in a cross-sectional side view of the safety closure 100 illustrated in FIG. 6. As described in detail above, the cylindrical cap body 110 includes a base portion 111 and an upstanding wall 113. The base portion 111 has a height spanning between a bottom edge 112 and a base portion upper edge 114. The upstanding wall 113 extends upward from the base portion upper edge 114. The rotating dispensing actuator 120 is disposed within a cylindrical cavity formed by the upstanding wall 113. The rotating pump actuator 120 includes a top surface 121, a projecting locking feature 123 and a nozzle or discharge port 300 that is in fluid communication with a central inlet port 310 formed into an inner surface 124 of the rotating dispensing actuator 120. The central inlet port 310 is preferably configured to couple with a discharge end 325 of a dispensing mechanism 320 coupled within the cap body 110. It is contemplated that the dispensing mechanism 320 may be a spring-loaded fluid pump that discharges a predefined amount of fluid for each actuation/dispensing stroke of the dispensing mechanism 320. In an alternate embodiment, the dispensing mechanism 320 may be a finger pump (not shown), a continuous spray aerosol dispensing mechanism (not shown), or a metered spray aerosol dispensing mechanism (not shown), each being configured to dispense a pressurized fluid or product stored within container 200.

[0050] The exemplary rotation locking member 130 is independently illustrated as an isometric view presented in FIG. 7. The rotation locking member 130 is configured as a semi-circular, ring shaped biasing member that acts as a spring in various operative states of the safety closure 100. The rotation locking member 130 has a locking end 131, an opposite biasing end 132, a convex surface 133 and a concave surface 134. Extending radially outward from the convex surface 133 and adjacent to the locking end 131 is a protruding push button 135. A locking wall engaging surface 136 is defined on the distal end of push button 135 and in one embodiment, is substantially co-planer with the distal end of the locking end 131 of rotation locking member 130. An alternate embodiment includes a rounded transition between the outer surface of the push button 135 and the engaging surface 136 to thereby facilitate sliding motion between the engaging surface 136 and the pushbutton locking edge 119 of the upstanding wall 113. The engaging surface 136 may be slightly angled in an alternate embodiment such that sliding motion between engaging surface 136 and pushbutton locking edge 119 is enhanced. In another embodiment, the push button 135 may be offset from the locking end 131 of the rotation locking member 130 (as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10).

[0051] The push button 135 can be designed having a height wherein a lower surface thereof rests against the actuation stop edge 126 when placed into the locked configuration. This provides additional restrictions of vertical motion of the rotating dispensing actuator 120. It is noted that the prior art is incapable of achieving this feature, as the design is limited in shape by the hinged interface.

[0052] The cap body 110, the rotating dispensing actuator 120 and the rotation locking member 130 may be manufactured using any of the well known manufacturing processes known by those skilled in the art, including injection molding, vacuum forming, machining, and the like. Additionally, it is contemplated that the material selected to fabricate the cap body 110, the rotating dispensing actuator 120 and the rotation locking member 130 may be chosen based upon material properties that provide specific performance of each component for each respective function, such as biasing or spring force characteristics of rotation locking member, rigidity for the cap body 110, and the like. It is also recognized that these components may be fabricated in different colors for any of a multitude of reasons. The cap body 110 and the rotating dispensing actuator 120 are preferably fabricated of the same material, which is preferably injection molded plastic, polypropylene, and the like. The rotation locking member 130 can be fabricated of plastic, silicone, acetyl and the like, preferably fabricated of a material having a geometric memory. Different colors can be used to aid in locating the push button 135. Different colors can be utilized for color-coding features and functionality, and the like.

[0053] Assembly of the rotation locking member 130 to rotating dispensing actuator 120 and operation thereof is illustrated in FIGS. 8 through 10. The rotating dispensing actuator 120 includes a tubular shaped actuator wall 129 terminating at the upper end wall 121. The upper end wall includes an outer compression receiving surface and an interior surface 124. The inner surface of the tubular shaped actuator wall 129 and the interior surface 124 defines an interior cavity 330 of the rotating dispensing actuator 120. The rotation locking member 130 is positioned within the actuator internal cavity 330 such that the convex surface 133 of rotation locking member 130 is in contact with a concave inner wall 335 of the rotating dispensing actuator 120. A locking button aperture 340 is formed adjacent to one end of projecting locking feature 123. The locking button aperture 340 is sized and configured to accept the push button 135 of the rotation locking member 130 therethrough. The locking button aperture 340 extends circumferentially forward from an unlocking end 128 of the projecting locking feature 123. The push button 135 is sized and shaped to extend radially outward beyond a convex outer wall surface 336 of the rotating dispensing actuator 120 such that the locking wall engage surface 136 operatively engages with the pushbutton locking edge 119 of the upstanding wall 113 (shown in FIGS. 3 through 5). In a relaxed condition, the biasing end 132 of the rotation locking member 130 is positioned having a gap between the biasing end 132 and a biasing member stop feature located within the interior portion of the rotating dispensing actuator 120.

[0054] Biased operation of the rotating dispensing actuator 120 within the rotation locking member 130 cycles between a relaxed, locked condition (FIG. 9) and a depressed unlocked condition (FIG. 10). In a relaxed state, the rotation locking member 130 naturally remains in a locked condition, where the push button 135 passes through the locking button aperture 340, extending radially outward beyond the rotating dispensing actuator convex outer surface 336. In the relaxed state, the biasing end 132 of the rotation locking member 130 is spaced apart from an internal fixed bias member limiting feature, wherein the bias member limiting feature can be an internally located discharge conduit 332 of the discharge port 300.

[0055] The rotation locking member 130 transitions from a locked condition to an unlocked condition by applying the inward motion 210 to the push button 135 of the rotation locking member 130. The inward motion 210 displaces the push button 135 into the internal cavity 330 of the rotating dispensing actuator 120. The system becomes unlocked when the push button 135 is substantially flush with the concave inner wall 335 of the rotating dispensing actuator 120. When the push button 135 is inwardly displaced, the rotation locking member 130 will shift or rotate such that the biasing end 132 operatively engages with an internal fixed feature 332 such as a portion of discharge port 300. The operative engagement between the biasing end 132 and the internal fixed feature 332 creates a return spring force which is transferred through the rotation locking member 130 to operatively provide a spring force that returns the push button 135 through the locking button aperture 340. It would be appreciated by those skilled in the art that alternative internal fixed features or a specifically provided fixed feature may be employed to provide a structural stop for the biasing end 132 of the rotation locking member when the push button 135 is depressed.

[0056] A nozzle extension 400 can be included with the access-safety closure 100 for more direct and efficient application of the dispensed product. The nozzle extension 400 comprises an atomizer nozzle 440 integrated to an exit end of an elongated tubular apparatus 420.

[0057] The elongated tubular apparatus 420 comprises an attachment interface 422 affixed to an elongated tube 424. The elongated tube 424 defines a hollow tubular channel 421 for transporting a fluid from the discharge port 300 of the rotating dispensing actuator 120 to the atomizer nozzle 440. The attachment interface 422 is defined on an end of the elongated tubular apparatus 420 that is proximal to the safety closure 100. The attachment interface 422 is configured to be coupled to the safety closure 100 at the discharge port 30. As illustrated in FIG. 11, the proximal end or entry end of the nozzle extension 400, which defines the attachment interface 422, forms a cavity for removeably connecting a discharge port 300 of a dispensing container to the elongated tubular apparatus 420 of the nozzle extension 400. The attachment interface 422 allows the discharge port 300 to release the fluid into the elongated tube 424, allowing the fluid to flow through the hollow tubular channel 421 to the atomizer nozzle 440. The elongated tube 424 is preferably gradually tapered as it approaches the atomizer nozzle 440, in order to gradually reduce the cross-sectional area of the tube 424 from its entry end to its exit end. The longitudinal length of the elongated tube 424 is preferably configured for insertion of the nozzle extension 400 into a mouth of an average adult, for efficient and comfortable application of the fluid onto the throat and/or tonsil area of the adult. The longitudinal length of the elongated tube 424 may also be preferably configured for insertion of the nozzle extension 400 into a mouth of an average child, for efficient and comfortable application of the fluid onto the throat and/or tonsil area of the child.

[0058] The elongated tubular apparatus 420 can have various cross-sectional configurations, such as square, rectangular, or oval, however, as shown in FIG. 12, the elongated tubular apparatus 420 is preferably cylindrical in shape, having a circular cross-sectional configuration.

[0059] The atomizer nozzle 440 is located at the exit end of the elongated tube 424 and the atomizer nozzle 440 is in fluid communication with the exit end of the elongated tube 424. The atomizer nozzle 440 comprises an atomizer nozzle housing 444, an atomizer projection 450, and an atomizer insert 447. The atomizer nozzle housing 444 extends outwardly and upwardly from the edge of the exit end of the elongated tube 424, forming a cylindrical wall surrounding the atomizer projection 450. The top edge 446 of the atomizer nozzle housing 444 extends beyond the atomizer insert 447. The atomizer nozzle housing 44 is sized and shaped to possess a cross-sectional area that is sufficient to prevent the user from swallowing the atomizer nozzle 440. The atomizer projection 450 extends outwardly and upwardly from one portion of the exit end of the elongated tube 424, forming a solid cylindrical wall that substantially blocks the fluid passageway from the exit end of the elongated tube 424 into the nozzle entrance 152, for substantially reducing the cross-sectional area of the fluid passageway. The atomizer insert 447 comprises a circular outer wall 449 having a discharge orifice 470 and a side wall 448, extending from an edge of an outer wall 449. The atomizer insert 447 is sized and shaped to fit securely in the cavity bound by the cylindrical wall formed by the atomizer nozzle housing 444. The discharge orifice 470 is preferably funneled shaped, wherein a broader diameter section is located on an interior surface of the outer wall 449 and a narrower diameter section is located on an exterior surface of the outer wall 449. The funnel shape of the discharge orifice 470 provides for further narrowing of the cross-sectional area of the fluid passageway in order to further pressurize the fluid for atomization of the fluid into a spray of droplets. The cylindrical wall of the atomizer nozzle housing 444, the walls 448, 499 of the atomizer insert 447, and the solid cylindrical-shape wall defined by the atomizer projection 450, form a narrow chamber 460 for the fluid to flow through. The chamber 460 is configured to provide channels of fluid flow that are narrower than the hollow tubular channel 421 formed by the elongated tube 424. As illustrated in FIG. 14, the chamber has a "U" shaped cross-sectional configuration, wherein the discharge orifice 470 is located at the center of the "U" shaped cross-sectional configuration, allowing the fluid to flow evenly over and around the atomizer projection 450 and out through the discharge orifice 470 as pressurized droplets.

[0060] The nozzle extension 400 can be fabricated to be removeably attached to the safety closure 100 or the nozzle extension 400 can be fabricated to be in unitary construction with safety closure 100.

[0061] In operation, the safety closure 100 is either integrated with or coupled to the container 200, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, to control dispensing of fluid or another consumer product that is stored within the volumetric space of container 200. Initially, safety closure 100 is configured in a locked state, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 3. When a user decides to access the product within container 200, the user must proceed to unlock the container 200. To begin, the user will apply a force in accordance with an inward motion 210 to depress the push button 135 of the rotation locking member 130 such that the push button 135 no longer engages with the pushbutton locking edge 119 of the upstanding wall 113. While continuing to depress the push button 135, the user simultaneously rotates the rotating dispensing actuator 120 in accordance with the rotational motion 220 of FIG. 2 such that projecting locking feature 123 becomes longitudinally aligned with the actuation enabling clearance 118. During the rotation of the rotating dispensing actuator 120, the push button 135 becomes positioned and retained behind the concave actuator inner wall 335. This configuration of the safety closure 100 enables the user to freely dispense the product from within the container 200. Now the user may longitudinally displace the rotating dispensing actuator 120 in a downward manner, by applying a compressive force to the upper end wall 121. The downward motion of the rotating dispensing actuator 120 actuates the dispensing mechanism 320 to dispense product from within the container 200. An actuator return biasing element 322 returns the rotating dispensing actuator 120 upward to an upright position in preparation for a subsequent dispensing cycle. The dispensing cycle is repeated until the desired volume of product is obtained from the container 200.

[0062] If the atomizer nozzle 440 is attached to the safety closure 100 and the product is dispensed from within the container 200 and out through the discharge port 300, the product will travel through the hollow tubular channel 421 of the elongated tube 424 towards the atomizer nozzle 440. It is well-known in the art that as fluid flows through a narrowing pipe, the velocity of the fluid increases through the narrower sections. Thus, as the product flows through the narrowing elongated tube 424, the velocity of the product increases as the product approaches the atomizer nozzle 440. The "U" shaped chamber 460 of the atomizer nozzle 440 provides channels of flow that are more narrow than the elongated tube 424, thus, as the product enters the chamber 460, the chamber 460 having a relatively small volume, the product is pressurized as it is abruptly halted by the walls 448, 449, 450 of the chamber 460. The product is ejected through the narrow opening of the discharge orifice 470 in a pattern and direction similar to the arrows in FIG. 14, producing a spray of pressured droplets that are sufficiently atomized to distribute the product over a desired surface area.

[0063] When the dispensing process is completed, the user rotates the rotating dispensing actuator 120 in accordance with a locking rotational motion 230, returning the projecting locking feature 123 to a locked condition, where the projecting locking feature 123 operatively engages with the actuator limit stop 116 of the upstanding wall 113. Upon positioning the rotating dispensing actuator 120 into the locked position, the push button 135 of the rotation locking member 130 will be biased by the internal spring forces generated by the rotation locking member 130 such that the engaging surface 136 of the push button 135 operatively engages with the pushbutton locking edge 119 of the upstanding wall 113.

[0064] As will be now apparent to those skilled in the art, child-resistant safety caps/closures fabricated according to the teachings of the present invention are capable of substantially enhancing the safety and use provided by the dispensing container 200. Because the present invention provides a safety closure 100 that requires two independent motions (the inward motion 210 and the unlocking rotational motion 240) to actuate the dispensing mechanism. In addition, the invention provides a rotation locking member 120 that is configured as a separate component, enabling fabrication of the rotating dispensing actuator 120 and the rotation locking member 130 using different materials. This permits optimal material selection for each component based upon the desired performance characteristics of each component. Importantly, the present invention provides a multi-element safety closure in which each component may be fabricated from materials of different colors to thereby identify and facilitate various functions thereof. Specifically, with the present invention, it is possible to provide a safety closure that permits customization of the spring force of the rotation locking member while simultaneously providing the ability to employ various color-coding schemes between the individual elements. The color differential can aid sight-impaired individuals in locating the push button 135, identifying the projecting locking feature 123, and the like. Additionally, the two-piece configuration of the rotating dispensing actuator and rotation locking member enables geometric optimization of these components in addition to permitting tighter tolerances for the locking member. Furthermore, the design of the nozzle extension 400 utilizes the kinetic energy of fluid to provide for more direct and efficient application of products to desired areas, such as the throat and tonsil area. Particularly with medical products, the design of the nozzle extension 400 reduces product waste, reducing costs to the user due to the necessity for more medication, and reducing the probability of a prolonged illness due to improper application of medication.

[0065] Although the above provides a full and complete disclosure of the preferred embodiments of the invention, various modifications, combinations, alternate constructions and equivalents will occur to those skilled in the art. For example, although the invention has been described with reference to a semi-circular ring shaped rotation locking member, alternatively the rotation locking member may be configured as sleeve or elongated/wide ring. It is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Therefore the above should not be construed as limiting the invention, which is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalence.

Claims

1. A safety closure system (100) for a dispensing container (200), comprising:

a body cap (110) which is one of configured to couple with said dispensing container (200) and integrated into said dispensing container (200), said body cap (110) comprising an upstanding wall (113) having a recess partially bound by a vertical edge (119), wherein said vertical edge (119) defines a pushbutton locking edge (119);

a rotating dispensing actuator (120) comprising an internal cavity (330), said rotating dispensing actuator (120) rotatably assembled within said body cap (110) to rotatably cycle said rotating dispensing actuator (120) between a locked position to avoid dispensing of material from within said container (200) and an unlocked, dispensing position enabling dispensing of material from within said container (200); and

a rotation locking member (130) comprising an arched segment (133, 134) and a push button (135) extending outward from a convex surface (133) of said arched segment (133, 134), wherein said rotation locking member (130) is operationally assembled within said actuator internal cavity (330) and said push button (135) engages with said vertical edge (119) to restrict a rotational motion of said rotating dispensing actuator (120) until said push button (135) is subjected to a compression force which positions said push button (135) inward, clearing said vertical edge (119), thus enabling rotation of said rotating dispensing actuator (120).

2. A safety closure system (100) for a dispensing container (200) as recited in Claim 1, wherein said upstanding wall (113) extends generally longitudinally from a top edge (105) of said body cap (110).

3. A safety closure system (100) for a dispensing container (200) as recited in Claim 1, said rotating dispensing actuator (120) further comprising a projecting locking feature (123) extending radially outward therefrom;
said body cap (110) further comprising an actuator limit stop (117), wherein said projecting locking feature (123) engages with said actuator limit stop (117) restricting a longitudinal motion of said rotating dispensing actuator (120) until said rotating dispensing actuator (120) is rotated into said unlocked, dispensing position where said projecting locking feature (123) is transitioned to a position disengaging from said actuator limit stop (117), thus enabling said longitudinal motion of said rotating dispensing actuator (120).

4. A safety closure system (100) for a dispensing container (200) as recited in Claim 3, wherein when said push button (135) is in an uncompressed state, a locking wall engaging surface (136) of said push button (135) engages with said pushbutton locking edge (119) retaining engagement between said projecting locking feature (123) and said actuator limit stop (117).

5. A safety closure system (100) for a dispensing container (200) as recited in Claim 1, further comprising a fixed feature (132) formed within said internal cavity (330) of said rotating dispensing actuator (120), wherein said fixed feature (132) operatively engages with a biasing end (132) of said rotation locking member (130) when said push button (135) is depressed placing said rotation locking member (130) into said unlocked, dispensing position.

6. A safety closure system (100) for a dispensing container (200) as recited in Claim 1, further comprising a dispensing mechanism (320) coupled to said cap body (110),
wherein said dispensing mechanism (320) is actuated by a longitudinal motion of said rotating dispensing actuator (120), and
said dispensing mechanism (320) dispenses contents stored within said container (200) through a discharge port (300) formed within said rotating dispensing actuator (120).

7. A safety closure system (100) for a dispensing container (200)as recited in Claim 1, wherein said rotation locking member (120) is fabricated having a visually distinguishing feature respective to said rotating dispensing actuator (130).

8. A safety closure system (100) for a dispensing container (200) as recited in Claim 1, wherein said rotating dispensing actuator (130) is fabricated of a material having a first color and said rotation locking member (120) is fabricated of a material having a second color, wherein said first color and said second color are different.

9. A nozzle extension (400) for dispensing a fluid to a desired area, the nozzle extension (400) comprising:

an elongated tubular apparatus (420), the elongated tubular apparatus (420) having an attachment interface (422) located at an attachment end of the nozzle extension (400), the attachment interface (422) defining a cavity for removeably connecting a discharge port (300) of a dispensing container (100, 200) to the elongated tubular apparatus (420) of the nozzle extension (400), and an elongated tube (424) defining a hollow tubular channel; and

an atomizer nozzle (440), the atomizer nozzle (440) comprising an atomizer nozzle housing (444) extending outwardly and upwardly from an edge of an exit end of the elongated tube (424), the atomizer nozzle housing (444) forming a cylindrical wall surrounding an atomizer projection (450),

an atomizer projection (450), extending outwardly and upwardly from one portion of the exit end of the elongated tube (424), the atomizer projection (450) forming a solid cylindrical wall that substantially blocks a fluid passageway from the exit end of the elongated tube (424) into an entrance (452) of the atomizer nozzle (440), for substantially reducing a cross-sectional area of the fluid passageway, and

an atomizer insert (447) having a circular outer wall and a side wall, the side wall extending from an edge of the outer wall and the outer wall having a discharge orifice (470), the atomizer insert (447) being sized and shaped to fit securely in a cavity bound by the cylindrical wall formed by the atomizer nozzle housing (444);

wherein the elongated tubular apparatus (420) and the atomizer nozzle (440) are in fluid communication with each other; and

wherein the cylindrical wall formed by the atomizer nozzle housing (444), the outer wall and side wall of the atomizer insert (447), and the solid cylindrical wall defined by the atomizer projection (450), form a narrow chamber (460) for the fluid to travel, the chamber (460) being configured to provide a channel that is narrower than the hollow tubular channel (424), the chamber having a "U" shaped cross-sectional configuration, wherein the discharge orifice (470) is located at a center of the "U" shaped cross-sectional configuration, allowing the fluid to flow evenly over and around the atomizer projection (450) and out through the discharge orifice (470) as pressurized spray droplets.

10. A nozzle extension (400) for dispensing a fluid to a desired area as recited in Claim 9, wherein the atomizer nozzle housing (444) is sized and shaped to possess a cross-sectional area that is sufficient to prevent a user from swallowing the atomizer nozzle (440).

11. A nozzle extension (400) for dispensing a fluid to a desired area as recited in Claim 1, wherein the discharge orifice (470) is funnel shaped, having a broader diameter section located on an interior surface of the outer wall (449) and a narrower diameter section located on an exterior surface of the outer wall (449).

12. A nozzle extension (400) for dispensing a fluid to a desired area as recited in Claim 9, wherein the longitudinal length of the hollow tubular channel (424) is configured for insertion of the nozzle extension (400) into a mouth of an average adult, for efficient and comfortable application of the fluid onto at least one of the throat and tonsil area of the adult.

13. A nozzle extension (400) for dispensing a fluid to a desired area as recited in Claim 9, wherein the longitudinal length of the hollow tubular channel (424) is configured for insertion of the nozzle extension (400) into a mouth of an average child, for efficient and comfortable application of the fluid onto at least one of the throat and tonsil area of the child.

14. A nozzle extension (400) for dispensing a fluid to a desired area as recited in Claim 9, wherein the nozzle extension (400) is removeably attached to a safety closure (100) of the dispensing container (200), the safety closure (100) comprising:

a body cap (100) which is one of configured to couple with said dispensing container (200) and integrated into said dispensing container (200), said body cap (100) comprising an upstanding wall (113) having a recess partially bound by a vertical edge (119), wherein said vertical edge (119) defines a pushbutton locking edge (119);

a rotating dispensing actuator (120) comprising an internal cavity (330), said rotating dispensing actuator (120) rotatably assembled within said body cap (100) to rotatably cycle said rotating dispensing actuator (120) between a locked position to avoid dispensing of material from within said container (200) and an unlocked, dispensing position enabling dispensing of material from within said container (200); and

a rotation locking member (120) comprising an arched segment (133, 134) and a push button (135) extending outward from a convex surface (133) of said arched segment (133, 134), wherein said rotation locking member (120) is operationally assembled within said actuator internal cavity (330) and said push button (135) engages with said vertical edge (119) to restrict a rotational motion of said rotating dispensing actuator (120) until said push button (135) is subjected to a compression force which positions said push button (135) inward, clearing said vertical edge (119), thus enabling rotation of said rotating dispensing actuator (120).

15. A nozzle extension (400) for dispensing a fluid to a desired area as recited in Claim 9, wherein the nozzle extension (400) is fabricated to be affixed to the safety closure (100) for a dispensing container (200), the safety closure (100) comprising:

a body cap (110) which is one of configured to couple with said dispensing container (200) and integrated into said dispensing container (200), said body cap (110) comprising an upstanding wall (113) having a recess partially bound by a vertical edge (119), wherein said vertical edge (119) defines a pushbutton locking edge (119);

a rotating dispensing actuator (120) comprising an internal cavity (330), said rotating dispensing actuator (120) rotatably assembled within said body cap (110) to rotatably cycle said rotating dispensing actuator (120) between a locked position to avoid dispensing of material from within said container (200) and an unlocked, dispensing position enabling dispensing of material from within said container (200); and

a rotation locking member (120) comprising an arched segment (133, 134) and a push button (135) extending outward from a convex surface (133) of said arched segment (133, 134), wherein said rotation locking member (120) is operationally assembled within said actuator internal cavity (330) and said push button (135) engages with said vertical edge (119) to restrict a rotational motion of said rotating dispensing actuator (120) until said push button (135) is subjected to a compression force which positions said push button (135) inward, clearing said vertical edge (119), thus enabling rotation of said rotating dispensing actuator (120).

Drawing