A CAP FOR CLOSING A CONTAINER, A COMBINATION OF A CAP AND A NECK

Abstract

A combination comprises a cap for a container and a neck of a container. The neck is delimited by an outer surface from which a circular enlargement projects, the outer surface extending up to a rim of the neck. The cap comprises a side wall extending about an axis. A separation line is provided on the side wall for defining a retaining ring intended to engage with the circular enlargement to remain anchored to the neck of the container and a closure element removably engageable with the neck so as to be movable between a closed position and an open position. The separation line extends about the axis and is circumferentially interrupted so as to leave a joining portion between the retaining ring and the closure element. The cap further has an incision line which extends transversally to the axis between the separation line and a free edge of the retaining ring, so that two connecting bands are defined between the separation line and the incision line, the connecting bands joining the retaining ring to the joining portion. The connecting bands are deformable for allowing the joining portion to rotate when the closure element is moved from the closed position to the open position, so that an edge of the joining portion which, in the closed position, faces the retaining ring, is facing towards the rim of the neck in the open position.

Claims

1-30. (canceled)

31. Combination of a cap for a container and of a neck of a container, wherein the neck is delimited by an outer surface from which a circular enlargement projects, the outer surface extending up to a rim of the neck, and wherein the cap comprises a side wall extending about an axis, a separation line being provided on the side wall for defining: a retaining ring intended to engage with the circular enlargement for remaining anchored to the neck, and a closure element which can removably engage the neck so as to be movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein the separation line extends about the axis and is circumferentially interrupted for leaving a joining portion between the retaining ring and the closure element, the cap further having an incision line which extends transversally to the axis between the separation line and a free edge of the retaining ring, so that two connecting bands are defined between the separation line and the incision line, the connecting bands joining the retaining ring to the joining portion, the connecting bands being deformable to allow the joining portion to rotate when the closure element is brought from the closed position to the open position, so that an edge of the joining portion which, in the closed position, faces the retaining ring, is facing towards the rim of the neck in the open position.

32. Combination according to claim 31, wherein the connecting bands are deformable by a twisting movement which affects at least a part of the height of each connecting band when the closure element is brought from the closed position to the open position.

33. Combination according to claim 31, wherein a distance between the separation line and the incision line is equal to, or greater than, 1.5 times half the difference between an external diameter of the circular enlargement and a diameter of the outer surface of the neck immediately above the circular enlargement.

34. Combination according to claim 31, wherein the joining portion has an angular dimension about said axis, which is greater than, or equal to, 20° and less than, or equal to, 120°.

35. Combination according to claim 31, wherein the joining portion has an angular dimension about said axis, which is greater than, or equal to, 25° and which is less than, or equal to, 90°.

36. Combination according to claim 31, wherein the neck is provided with at least one fixing element suitable for engaging with the closure element to allow the closure element to be removably fixed to the neck, a distance between the circular enlargement and the at least one fixing element being greater than, or equal to, half of a distance between the separation line and the incision line.

37. Combination according to claim 31, wherein the circular enlargement is delimited, towards the rim of the neck, by a truncated cone shaped surface, a generatrix of the truncated cone shaped surface forming an angle which is less than, or equal to, 35° with a straight line parallel to a longitudinal axis of the neck.

38. Combination according to claim 31, wherein the side wall is externally provided with a plurality of knurling lines, the separation line intersecting the knurling lines.

39. Cap for a container, comprising a side wall extending about an axis and a transversal wall arranged at an end of the side wall, a separation line being provided on the side wall for defining: a retaining ring intended to remain anchored to a neck of the container, and a closure element which can removably engage the neck so as to open or close the container; wherein the separation line extends about the axis and is circumferentially interrupted for leaving a joining portion between the retaining ring and the closure element, the cap further having an incision line which extends transversally to the axis between the separation line and a free edge of the retaining ring, so that two connecting bands are defined between the separation line and the incision line, the connecting bands joining the retaining ring to the joining portion, the joining portion having an angular dimension about said axis, which is greater than, or equal to, 20° and less than, or equal to, 120°.

40. Cap according to claim 39, wherein said angular dimension is greater than, or equal to, 25°, and less than, or equal to, 90°.

41. Cap according to claim 39, wherein the incision line lies in a plane arranged perpendicularly to said axis, when the closure element is in a closed position.

42. Cap according to claim 39, wherein the side wall is externally provided with a plurality of knurling lines, the separation line intersecting the knurling lines.

43. Cap according to claim 39, wherein the incision line and the separation line are cut lines extending on respective parallel planes.

44. Cap according to claim 39, wherein the incision line has an angular extension about the axis of between 60° and 200°.

45. Cap according to claim 39, wherein two fracture lines are provided on the side wall, the fracture lines extending towards the transversal wall, respectively from a first end and from a second end of the separation line.

46. Cap according to claim 45, wherein the fracture lines are parallel to each other and to the axis, the fracture lines having equal length.

47. Cap according to claim 39, wherein the closure element is provided with an inner thread suitable for engaging with an outer thread of the neck.

48. Cap according to claim 39, wherein the separation line has a first end and a second end, the joining portion, which joins the retaining ring to the closure element, extending from the first end to the second end.

49. Cap according to claim 39, wherein the separation line and/or the incision line have respective ends at which incision zones having a circular geometry are provided, for preventing propagation of fracture cracks starting from the separation line and/or from the incision line.

50. Cap according to claim 39, wherein the joining portion has a thickness substantially constant on a plane containing the separation line.

Description

[0103] The invention can be better understood and implemented with reference to the accompanying drawings which illustrate some non-limiting example embodiments of it and in which:

[0104] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cap for a container, in a closed position;

[0105] FIG. 2 is a side view of the cap of FIG. 1, in a configuration wherein a closure element of the cap is separated from a retaining ring;

[0106] FIG. 3 is a perspective and interrupted view of the cap of FIG. 1, applied on a neck of a container, in a configuration wherein a closure element of the cap is moved to a lateral position relative to the neck;

[0107] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a cap according to an alternative embodiment, in a configuration wherein a closure element of the cap begins to be separated from the retaining ring;

[0108] FIG. 4a shows an enlarged detail of FIG. 4;

[0109] FIG. 5 is a side view showing a cap for a container, according to an alternative embodiment;

[0110] FIG. 6 is a view like that of FIG. 5, from the direction D indicated in FIG. 5;

[0111] FIG. 7 is a side view like that of FIG. 5, in a configuration wherein a closure element of the cap is separated from a retaining ring;

[0112] FIG. 8 is a side view of a neck on which the cap of FIG. 5 may be screwed;

[0113] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the neck of FIG. 8;

[0114] FIG. 10 is side view, showing the cap of FIG. 5, applied on the neck of FIG. 8, the closure element of the cap being arranged in an open position;

[0115] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a cap for a container, in a closed position;

[0116] FIG. 12 is a side view of the cap of FIG. 11, in the closed position;

[0117] FIG. 13 is a side view of the cap of FIG. 11, in a configuration in which a closure element of the cap is separated from a retaining ring;

[0118] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the cap of FIG. 11, applied to a neck of a container, in an open position;

[0119] FIG. 15 is a view like that of FIG. 14, wherein the closure element of the cap interferes with the neck to remain stably open.

[0120] FIG. 1 shows a cap 1 for closing a container, particularly a bottle intended to contain a liquid substance such as a drink. The cap 1 is made of polymeric material. Any polymeric material suitable for moulding may be used to obtain the cap 1.

[0121] The cap 1 is shown in FIG. 1 in a closed position in which the cap 1 is when it leaves a cap production line, ready to be applied on the container. In this condition, the cap 1 comprises a side wall 2 which extends about an axis Z, and a transversal wall 3 arranged at an end of the side wall 2, so as to close that end. The transversal wall 3 extends transversally, in particular perpendicularly, to the axis Z. The transversal wall 3 may be flat, even though other shapes are theoretically possible. In the example illustrated, the transversal wall 3 has a substantially circular shape in plan view.

[0122] The cap 1 has a separation line 4, positioned on the side wall 2 and extending about the axis Z. The separation line 4 extends on a plane arranged transversally, in particular perpendicularly, to the axis Z. The separation line 4 defines on the cap 1 a retaining ring 5 and a closure element 6. The latter are positioned on opposite sides of the separation line 4. As described in more detail below, when the cap 1 is brought to an open position, the closure element 6 separates from the retaining ring 5 along the separation line 4.

[0123] Along the separation line 4 a plurality of breakable bridges 7 may be provided, which connect the retaining ring 5 to the closure element 6. The breakable bridges 7 are intended to be broken the first time the cap 1 is moved to the open position, to signal that the container is no longer intact. The separation line 4 may be parallel to a free edge 16 of the cap 1. More specifically, the free edge 16 delimits the retaining ring 5 on the opposite side to the transversal wall 3.

[0124] The separation line 4 does not extend for an entire angle of 360° about the axis Z. The separation line 4 is interrupted in the circumferential direction, so as to define on the side wall 2 a joining portion 8, at which the closure element 6 remains joined to the retaining ring 5.

[0125] In other words, the separation line 4 has a first end 9 and a second end 10. The joining portion 8 is interposed between the first end 9 and the second end 10. At the joining portion 8, the retaining ring 5 is joined to the closure element 6.

[0126] As shown in FIG. 1, the joining portion 8 has an angular dimension W about the axis Z.

[0127] The joining portion 8 defines a hinge band about which the closure element 6 can rotate after disengaging from a neck 18, shown in FIG. 3, of the container on which the cap 1 is applied.

[0128] This hinge band extends between two opposite end zones of the joining portion 8, that is to say, it extends from a zone of the joining portion 8 immediately adjacent to the first end 9 to a zone of the joining portion 8 immediately adjacent to the second end 10.

[0129] The hinge band defined by the joining portion 8 therefore affects the entire angular dimension W of the joining portion 8, without interposition of arrow shaped hinges or of reduced thickness zones.

[0130] In the example illustrated, the closure element 6 has a cup-shaped body and comprises a skirt 11 which extends about the axis Z. The skirt 11 is connected to the transversal wall 3, arranged at the end of the skirt 11 opposite the separation line 4. In particular, the skirt 11 is connected to the transversal wall 3 by a connecting zone 12, which may be shaped, in cross section, like a beveled edge or a circular connection zone.

[0131] The skirt 11 has, on an inner surface thereof, a removably fixing arrangement, not shown, by which the closure element 6 can removably engage with the neck 18 of the container. The removably fixing arrangement may comprise, for example, an inner thread intended to engage with an outer thread 17, shown in FIG. 3, formed on the neck 18.

[0132] The skirt 11 can be provided, on an outer surface thereof, with a plurality of knurling lines 13, extending parallel to the axis Z and suitable for facilitating gripping of the cap 1 by the user or by the capping machine which applies the cap 1 on the container to be closed.

[0133] The knurling lines 13 may continue also in the connecting zone 12 and/or in the retaining ring 5.

[0134] In the example shown, the skirt 11 comprises a cylindrical portion 14 on which the knurling lines 13 are made. The skirt 11 further comprises a wide portion 15 having a diameter larger than the cylindrical portion 14. The wide portion 15 may be delimited by a smooth outside surface, that is to say, it can be free of knurling lines. This condition is not, however, necessary and the knurling lines could also extend on the wide portion 15. Between the cylindrical portion 14 and the wide portion 15 a step 19 may be provided.

[0135] The retaining ring 5 extends between the free edge 16 and the separation line 4. The retaining ring 5 may be delimited by a cylindrical or truncated cone shaped outer surface. In the closed position of the cap 1 shown in FIG. 1, the retaining ring 5 is coaxial with the closure element 6.

[0136] The retaining ring 5 is provided internally with an engagement element 20, shown in FIG. 2, suitable for engaging with a circular enlargement 23, shown in FIG. 3, which projects from an outer surface of the neck 18. The engagement element 20 is configured to abut against the circular enlargement 23 in order to prevent axial movements of the retaining ring 5, away from the neck 18, when the closure element 6 is removed from the neck 18.

[0137] The engagement element 20 may be shaped like an annular element which is bent around the free edge 16 towards the inside of the retaining ring 5. In an alternative embodiment not illustrated, there may be a plurality of engagement elements, shaped like tabs which project from the free edge 16 and are bent towards the inside of the retaining ring 5. Alternatively, the engagement element 20 may be shaped like an enlargement, continuous or interrupted, which from an inner surface of the retaining ring 5 projects towards the axis Z to engage with the circular enlargement 23.

[0138] As shown in FIG. 1, the cap 1 has an incision line 21 which extends on the side wall 2 transversally, in particular perpendicularly, to the axis Z. In more detail, the incision line 21 is interposed between the separation line 4 and the free edge 16.

[0139] If the cap 1 is positioned in the same orientation which it will have after having been applied to the container, that is to say, with the transversal wall 3 facing upwards, the incision line 21 is arranged below the separation line 4. The incision line 21 is therefore located on the side of the retaining ring 5, relative to the separation line 4.

[0140] The joining portion 8 is located on the opposite side of the incision line 21 relative to the retaining ring 5. The incision line 21 therefore delimits the joining portion 8 towards the retaining ring 5.

[0141] The incision line 21 has an angular extension A1, measured about the axis Z, greater than the angular distance (also measured about the axis Z) between the first end 9 and the second end 10 of the separation line 4, that is to say, the angular dimension W of the joining portion 8. For example, the angular extension A1 of the incision line 21 may be between 60° and 200°, preferably between 75° and 180°. The angular dimension W of the joining portion 8 about the axis Z, that is to say, the angular distance between the first end 9 and the second end 10 of the separation line 4, may be between 5° and 40°, preferably between 10° and 30°.

[0142] In the example illustrated, the joining portion 8 is centred relative to the separation line 21. In other words, the midpoint of the separation line 21 and the centre line of the joining portion 8 are aligned with each other in a direction parallel to the axis Z, that is to say, they lie in a common plane which contains the axis Z. This condition is not however necessary, since even a not perfectly centred positioning of the incision line 21 relative to the joining portion 8 is permitted.

[0143] In the example illustrated, the incision line 21 has a flat arched shape. However, other shapes are possible.

[0144] The incision line 21 and the separation line 4 may be parallel to each other, even though this condition is not necessary. For example, the incision line 21 and the separation line 4 could be slightly inclined relative to each other. Alternatively, the incision line 21 could comprise a plurality of stretches having different inclinations, not necessarily parallel to each other.

[0145] As shown in FIG. 1, the incision line 21 has an end 27 and a further end 28. The end 27 extends outside the joining portion 8, beyond the first end 9 of the separation line 4. The further end 28 also extends outside the joining portion 8, but goes beyond the second end 10 of the separation line 4.

[0146] The incision line 21 comprises a central part 24 interposed between a peripheral part 25 and a further peripheral part 26. The central part 24 faces the joining portion 8. The peripheral part 25 faces the separation line 4, in particular an end portion of the separation line 4. More precisely, the peripheral part 25 faces the separation line 4 in a zone between the first end 9 of the separation line 4 and the end 27 of the incision line 21. The further peripheral part 26 faces the separation line 4, in particular a further end portion of the separation line 4. More precisely, the further peripheral part 26 faces the separation line 4 in a zone between the second end 10 of the separation line 4 and the further end 28 of the incision line 21.

[0147] Between the peripheral part 25 of the incision line 21 and a portion of the separation line 4 which starts from the first end 9, a connecting band 29 is defined for connecting the joining portion 8 to the retaining ring 5. Similarly, between the further peripheral part 26 of the incision line 21 and a further portion of the separation line 4 which starts from the second end 10, a further connecting band 30 is defined for connecting the joining portion 8 to the retaining ring 5.

[0148] In the example illustrated, the connecting band 29 and the further connecting band 30 are arranged symmetrically to each other relative to a plane containing the axis Z and a centre line of the joining portion 8.

[0149] The incision line 21 may be shaped as a through cut which passes through the entire thickness of the side wall 2. Even though this feature is not shown in the drawings, along the incision line 21 there may be one or more breakable elements intended to break the first time the cap 1 is opened.

[0150] Alternatively, the incision line 21 may be shaped as a weakening line that does not pass through the entire thickness of the side wall 2, but at which the thickness of the side wall 2 is reduced with respect to the surrounding zones.

[0151] At the first end 9 and at the second end 10 of the separation line 4, and/or at the end 27 and at the further end 28 of the incision line 21, there may be incision zones 38, shown in FIG. 1. The incision zones 38 may have a circular geometry and in general have a transversal dimension greater than a width of the corresponding incision line or separation line. This makes it possible to prevent the propagation of fracture cracks starting from the incision or separation lines. In an alternative embodiment, the incision zones 38 may be absent.

[0152] In a central part of the joining portion 8 there may be a stress reduction cut 39, having dimensions very limited relative to the dimensions of the joining portion 8, so as to not adversely affect the resistance of the joining portion 8. The stress reduction cut 39 makes it possible to increase the deformability of the central part of the joining portion 8, reducing the tensions in the surrounding zones. The presence of the weight reduction cut 39 is optional.

[0153] The cap 1 is applied on the neck 18 of the container in the closed position shown in FIG. 1. The cap 1 is positioned in such a way that the engagement element 20 provided inside the retaining ring 5 is below the circular enlargement 23 present on the neck 18.

[0154] When the user wishes to open the container for the first time, the user grips the skirt 11 of the closure element 6 and rotates the closure element 6 about the axis Z, in order to unscrew the closure element 6 from the neck 18. Initially, the closure element 6 and the retaining ring 5 are rotated together about the axis Z, and they simultaneously move together in a direction parallel to the axis Z, away from the neck 18. This occurs until the engagement element 20 of the retaining ring 5 abuts against the circular enlargement 23 provided on the neck 18. At this point, the circular enlargement 23 prevents the retaining ring 5 from rising further along the axis Z, acting as a stop for the movement of the retaining ring 5 away from the neck 18.

[0155] The closure element 6, which is unscrewed by the user, continues to move along the axis Z away from the neck 18. The breakable bridges 7 are thereby tensioned, until causing their failure. The closure element 6 consequently separates from the retaining ring 5 along the separation line 4, but remains joined to the retaining ring 5 at the joining portion 8.

[0156] If the user continues to unscrew the closure element 6, so as to move the closure element 6 along the axis Z to remove it from the neck 18, the first connecting band 29 and the second connecting band 30 deform. In particular, by moving the closure element 6 upwards, the first connecting band 29 and the second connecting band 30 are also pulled upwards. Consequently, the first connecting band 29 and the second connecting band 30 are spaced apart from both the closure element 6 and the retaining ring 5 and remain joined to each other in the joining portion 8.

[0157] The first connecting band 29 and the second connecting band 30 thus adopt a kind of trapezium shape as shown in FIG. 2, in which the neck 18 of the container is not shown. In this configuration, the first connecting band 29 remains joined to the retaining ring 5 at the end 27 of the incision line 21. Similarly, the second connecting band 30 remains joined to the retaining ring 5 at the further end 28 of the incision line 21.

[0158] The first connecting band 29 and the second connecting band 30 are joined to each other in the joining portion 8.

[0159] In other words, the first connecting band 29 and the second connecting band 30 are arranged in an inclined configuration relative to the retaining ring 5 and converge in the joining portion 8.

[0160] Continuing to unscrew the closure element 6, the latter is disengaged from the outer thread 17 made on the neck 18, so that the container can be opened. The retaining ring 5 remains, however, anchored to the neck 18. The first connecting band 29, the second connecting band 30 and the joining portion 8 define a hinge arrangement 40, shown in FIG. 3, about which the closure element 6 can rotate to allow the user to access the contents of the container.

[0161] In particular, by moving the closure element 6 about the hinge arrangement 40 after the closure element 6 has been disengaged from the neck 18, it is possible to move the closure element 6 to a lateral position relative to the neck 18, so that the closure element 6 is no longer coaxial with the retaining ring 5, as shown in FIG. 3. The closure element 6 may be rotated further backwards relative to the position shown in FIG. 3, in order to move it further away from the neck 18 and to allow the user to more easily access the contents of the container.

[0162] After use, the user can return the cap 1 to the closed position shown in FIG. 1 by a sequence of operations in reverse order compared with that previously described.

[0163] The first connecting band 29 and the second connecting band 30 allow a hinge arrangement 40 to be obtained which is longer than that which would be available if only the hinge band defined by the joining portion 8 were present. This makes it easier to disengage the closure element 6 from the neck 18, and reapply the closure element 6 on the neck 18, by rotating the closure element 6 about the hinge arrangement 40.

[0164] The capacity for rotating the closure element 6 about the hinge arrangement 40 may be further increased by using a cap 101 according to the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 4.

[0165] The cap 101 shown in FIG. 4 has many similarities to the cap 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. In particular, the incision line 21, the separation line 4, the joining portion 8, the first connecting band 29 and the second connecting band 30 are present and are structurally and functionally the same as those described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0166] The cap 101 differs from the cap 1 because the side wall 2 has a pair of break lines 41 which, from the joining portion 8, extend towards the transversal wall 3.

[0167] In particular, a first break line of the above-mentioned pair of break lines 41 extends from the first end 9 of the separation line 4 towards the transversal wall 3, whilst a second break line extends from the second end 10 of the separation line 4 towards the transversal wall 3.

[0168] Between the break lines 41 a flexible strap 42 which connects the closure element 6 to the joining portion 8.

[0169] In the example illustrated, the break lines 41 are parallel to each other, even though this condition is not necessary.

[0170] In the example illustrated, the break lines 41 extend parallel to the axis Z. However, this condition too is not necessary and the break lines 41 could be slightly inclined relative to the axis Z.

[0171] The break lines 41 may have the same length.

[0172] The break lines 41 may be shaped as cuts which pass through the entire thickness of the closure element 6. In this case, along the break lines 41 there may be one or more joining points intended to be broken the first time the cap 101 is moved to the open position.

[0173] In an alternative embodiment, the break lines 41 may be shaped as weakening lines at which the closure element 6 has a thickness which is reduced with respect to the surrounding zones. Along those weakening lines, the material of which the closure element 6 consists is intended to break, the first time the cap 101 is opened.

[0174] In order to move the cap 101 to the open position, the procedure is as previously described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. In particular, the closure element 6 of the cap 101 is unscrewed from the neck 18, until the position shown in FIG. 4 is reached, wherein the inner thread formed in the closure element 6 is completely disengaged from the outer thread 17 formed on the neck 18. At this point, the closure element 6 of the cap 101 may be rotated backwards by an angle greater than for the closure element 6 of the cap 1, owing to the break lines 41, which increase the flexibility and the deformability of the corresponding hinge arrangement.

[0175] FIGS. 5 to 7 and 10 show a cap 201 according to another embodiment.

[0176] The parts of the cap 201 common to the cap 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 will be indicated with the reference numbers already used in FIGS. 1 to 3 and, for brevity, will not be described again in detail. What was previously described with reference to the cap 1 shall be understood to also be applicable to the cap 201, unless differences are explicitly provided. As shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 and 10, the cap 201 comprises the side wall 2 which extends about the axis Z, and the transversal wall 3 located at an end of the side wall 2, so as to close that end.

[0177] The cap 201 is further provided with the separation line 4, positioned on the side wall 2, which defines on the cap 201 the retaining ring 5 and the closure element 6. The retaining ring 5 is intended to remain anchored to the neck of the container on which the cap 201 is applied, owing to at least one engagement element provided inside it. In contrast, the closure element 6 is suitable for removably engaging with the neck, owing to the removably fixing arrangement provided inside the skirt 11. In this way, the closure element 6 is movable between a closed position, shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, and an open position, shown in FIG. 10.

[0178] The separation line of 4 extends about the axis Z and is circumferentially interrupted so as to define on the side wall 2 the joining portion 8 by which the closure element 6 is joined to the retaining ring 5.

[0179] The incision line 21 is further provided on the side wall 2. In the example illustrated, the incision line 21 is axially interposed between the free edge 16 of the retaining ring 5 and the separation line 4.

[0180] Two connecting bands, that is to say, a connecting band 29 and a further connecting band 30, are defined between the separation line 4 and the incision line 21, the two connecting bands joining the retaining ring 5 to the joining portion 8.

[0181] In particular, the connecting band 29 extends between the peripheral part 25 of the incision line 21 and a portion of the separation line 4 which starts from the first end 9 of the later. Similarly, the further connecting band 30 extends between the further peripheral part 26 of the incision line 21 and a further portion of the separation line 4 which starts from the second end 10. The connecting band 29 and the further connecting band 30 may be arranged symmetrically to each other relative to a plane containing the axis Z and a centre line of the joining portion 8.

[0182] FIGS. 8 and 9 show a neck 218 on which the cap 201 may be applied. The neck 218 extends about a longitudinal axis Z1. When the cap 201 is applied on the neck 218 and the closure element 6 is in the closed position, the axis Z of the side wall 2 coincides with the longitudinal axis Z1.

[0183] The neck 218 is delimited by an outer surface 219, which in the example illustrated is cylindrical and coaxial with the longitudinal axis Z1.

[0184] The outer surface 219 extends as far as a rim 220 of the neck 218. The rim 220 surrounds an opening 221 through which it is possible to access the container, when the closure element 6 is in the open position. Vice versa, the closure element 6 closes the opening 221 when it is arranged in the closed position.

[0185] The neck 218 comprises a collar 222, suitable for preventing the retaining ring 5 from descending along the neck 218 below a predetermined level.

[0186] Moreover, the collar 222 may be used for conveying the container during the production, filling and capping process.

[0187] The outer surface 219 extends from the collar 222 to the rim 220.

[0188] A circular enlargement 223 projects from the outer surface 219, the circular enlargement 223 being suitable for engaging with the engagement element provided inside the retaining ring 5 so as to prevent the retaining ring 5 from being detached from the neck 218.

[0189] The circular enlargement 223 may comprise a truncated cone shaped portion 224, whose diameter increases in a direction going from the rim 220 towards the collar 222.

[0190] The circular enlargement 223 is delimited, on the opposite side to the rim 220, by an abutment surface 225 against which the at least one engagement element of the retaining ring 5 abuts.

[0191] A cylindrical portion of the circular enlargement 223 may be interposed between the truncated cone shaped portion 224 and the abutment surface 225.

[0192] However, other geometries of the circular enlargement 223 are possible.

[0193] The neck 218 comprises at least one removable fixing element with which the removably fixing arrangement formed inside the closure element 6 can engage to allow the closure element 6 to be alternatively applied on, or removed from, the neck 218.

[0194] The at least one removable fixing element may comprise an outer thread 217 formed on the outer surface 219, in particular projecting from the outer surface 219.

[0195] The cap 201 is intended to be applied on the neck 218 when the closure element 6 is in the closed position. In particular, the cap 201 is applied on the neck 218 in such a way that the at least one engagement element provided inside the retaining ring 5 is below the circular enlargement 223, in particular in a position interposed between the collar 222 and the circular enlargement 223.

[0196] When the user acts on the cap 201 to move the closure element 6 to the open position for the first time, the closure element 6 is unscrewed, that is to say, it is rotated about the longitudinal axis Z1 and simultaneously moved away from the collar 222. The retaining ring 5, joined to the closure element 6 by the breakable bridges 7, initially moves together with the closure element 6. When the at least one engagement element provided inside the retaining ring 5 abuts against the abutment surface 225, the retaining ring 5 cannot rise any further along the neck 218. On the other hand, the closure element 6 moves further away from the body of the container and simultaneously rotates about the longitudinal axis Z1, gradually as the user continues to unscrew the closure element 6. In this way, the breakable bridges 7 arranged along the separation line 4 are subjected to a stress that causes them to break. The connecting bands 29, 30 also deform while the closure element 6 is unscrewed. In particular, gradually as the closure element 6, during unscrewing, is moved away from the retaining ring 5, the connecting bands 29, 30 are positioned in an inclined position relative to the retaining ring 5, detaching from the retaining ring 5 along the incision line 21. The closure element 6 also detaches from the connecting bands 29, 30. Any breakable elements positioned along the incision line 21 break.

[0197] In this way, the position shown in FIG. 7 is reached, wherein the neck has not been shown. The position shown in FIG. 7 may be defined as a disengaged position, because in the position shown in FIG. 7 the removably fixing arrangement formed inside the closure element 6 has disengaged from the thread 217 of the neck 218.

[0198] At this point, the closure element 6 may be rotated relative to the retaining ring 5 for displacing it into the open position shown in FIG. 10, in which the closure element 6 is arranged on one side of the neck 218 and the axis Z of the closure element 6 no longer coincides with the longitudinal axis Z1 of the neck 218.

[0199] The connecting bands 29, 30 are deformable, in such a way that not just the closure element 6, but also the joining portion 8 is rotated relative to the neck 218.

[0200] As is shown more clearly in FIG. 7, the joining portion 8 is delimited by an edge 50 which, in the closed position of the closure element 6 (and in general before the closure element 6 is rotated relative to the retaining ring 5 to be moved to the open position) faces the retaining ring 5. More specifically, the edge 50 is defined on the side wall 2, towards the closure element 6, by the incision line 21.

[0201] When the closure element 6 passes from the disengaged position to the open position, the joining portion 8 is overturned relative to the neck 218. Consequently, the edge 50, which in the disengaged position (and also in the closed position) was facing the retaining ring 5, is positioned in such a way that it is facing towards the rim 220 of the neck 218, that is to say, upwards in FIG. 10.

[0202] In order to make that possible, the joining portion 8, and in particular its edge 50, slides along the truncated cone shaped portion 224 of the circular enlargement 223 and simultaneously rotates relative to the connecting bands 29, 30. The edge 50 reaches a height which is higher than the circular enlargement 223, assuming that the neck 218 is positioned in such a way that the opening 221 is facing upwards. The joining portion 8 is thus positioned at least partly above the circular enlargement 223, resting on the neck 218. In particular, the joining portion 8 rests on the outer surface 219 above the circular enlargement 223.

[0203] In this way, an interference is generated between the neck 218 and the joining portion 8, in particular along the edge 50 and near the latter. There may also be interference between the connecting bands 29, 30 and the neck 218. This allows the closure element 6 to be stably kept in the open position. In effect, in order to bring the closure element 6 back to the closed position, it is necessary to overcome the interference between the joining portion 8 and the neck 218. Normally, that does not occur accidentally, instead only occurring if the user deliberately applies sufficient force to the closure element 6, that is to say, if the user wishes to move the closure element 6 to the closed position.

[0204] Moreover, the interference which occurs between the joining portion 8 and the neck 218 makes it difficult for the cap 201 to be able to rotate about the neck 218, due to the rotation of the retaining ring 5 about the neck 218. In effect, the retaining ring 5 is connected to the joining portion 8 by the connecting bands 29, 30. Consequently, the retaining ring 5 is not free to rotate about the neck 218, instead it can only rotate if the interference between the joining portion 8 and the neck 218 is overcome.

[0205] In order to make it possible for the joining portion 8 to rotate when the closure element 6 passes from the disengaged position to the open position, the connecting bands 29, 30 are subjected to twisting, which affects at least part of the height H of each connecting band 29, 30. The term “height H” of the connecting bands 29, 30 refers to the dimension of the connecting bands 29, 30 in a direction parallel to the axis Z of the side wall 2, when the closure element 6 is in the closed position, as shown in FIG. 5.

[0206] In the example illustrated, wherein the separation line 4 and the incision line 21 lie in respective planes parallel to each other, the height H of the connecting bands 29, 30 is constant along the entire length of the connecting bands 29, 30 and is equal for the two connecting bands 29, 30. As shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 and 10, the knurling lines 13 are provided on the closure element 6. The knurling lines 13 may extend parallel to the axis Z.

[0207] In the example illustrated, the separation line 4 intersects the knurling lines 13. In other words, the knurling lines 13 extend on both sides of, that is to say, both above and below, the separation line 4.

[0208] That occurs because the separation line 4 is provided in a position as close as possible to the removably fixing arrangement arranged inside the closure element 6, that is to say, to the inner thread. In this way, it is possible to increase the height H of the connecting bands 29, 30.

[0209] Consequently, as shown in FIG. 10, the connecting bands 29, 30 comprise a first portion 51 provided with knurling lines 13 and a second portion 52 which is smooth. A widened part 53 may be provided between the first portion 51 and the second portion 52.

[0210] In the example illustrated, when the joining portion 8 rotates so that the edge 50 is facing towards the rim 220, the second portion 52 of the connecting bands 29, 30 twists and passes under the first portion 51. The first portion 51, like the widened part 53, if present, in contrast expands radially, but does not undergo substantial twisting.

[0211] Owing to deformation of the connecting bands 29, 30, the joining portion 8 can rest on the neck 218 with the edge 50 facing towards the rim 220, without it being necessary to provide weakening lines or fracture lines in the joining portion 8 and/or in the connecting bands 29, 30. In this way, production of the cap 201 is not complicated.

[0212] In the closed position, when the edge 50 faces the retaining ring 5, there is an albeit small amount of play between the joining portion 8 and the neck 218. When the closure element 6 is moved to be brought to the open position, the joining portion 8 begins to rotate and starts to interfere with the neck 218. The interference between the joining portion 8 and the neck 218 reaches a maximum value when the joining portion 8 is approximately arranged in a plane perpendicular, or almost perpendicular, to the neck 218, or rather to its longitudinal axis Z1. The interference between the joining portion 8 and the neck 218 is reduced when the joining portion 8 is overturned, that is to say, when the edge 50 moves above the connecting bands 29, 30. In the open position, the interference between the joining portion 8 and the neck 218 remains, although it is less than the maximum value.

[0213] When the position in which the interference reaches a maximum value is passed, the user who is manually rotating the closure element 6 in order to move it to the open position can feel a sort of vibration. That vibration is perceived by the hand of the user, who is moving the closure element 6, as a discontinuity in the movement of the closure element 6. In other words, the closure element 6 snaps into place beyond the position in which the interference between the joining portion 8 and the neck 218 reaches the maximum value, and the user perceives this snap motion.

[0214] In this way the user is certain that the closure element 6 has been correctly moved to the open position.

[0215] It is also possible, but not necessary, for the vibration to be accompanied by a sound such as a “click”, which can be heard by the user.

[0216] The cap 201 described above guarantees not just that the closure element 6 stably remains in the open position, but also that, in the open position, the closure element 6 is rotated backwards, relative to the neck, by a relatively wide angle of opening A1, as shown in FIG. 10.

[0217] In particular, the angle A1 may be greater than, or equal to, 140°. This makes it very difficult for the closure element 6 to be able in an unwelcome way to strike the face of the user who is drinking directly from the bottle on which the cap 201 is applied, or for the closure element 6 to be able to obstruct the dispensing of a liquid contained in the bottle into a container, such as a glass.

[0218] Experimentation has shown that several geometric parameters of the cap 201 and/or of the neck 218 favour the behaviour previously described with reference to FIG. 10.

[0219] In particular, on the neck 218 it is possible to define an external or maximum diameter Dmax of the circular enlargement 223, as shown in FIG. 8. It is also possible to define a diameter Ds of the outer surface 219 of the neck 218, immediately above the circular enlargement 223, that is to say, in a position interposed between the circular enlargement 223 and the outer thread 217. In the example illustrated, the diameter Ds immediately above the circular enlargement 223 coincides with the diameter of the outer surface 219 in a region interposed between the outer thread 217 and the rim 220, but this condition is not necessary.

[0220] Delta indicates the difference between the external diameter Dmax of the circular enlargement 223 and the diameter Ds of the outer surface 219 immediately above the circular enlargement 223.

[0221] In the example illustrated, the external diameter Dmax of the circular enlargement 223 is 30.2 mm.

[0222] The diameter Ds of the outer surface 219 immediately above the circular enlargement 223 is 28 mm.

[0223] The difference Delta between Dmax and Ds is 30.2−28=2.2 mm.

[0224] Half of the difference Delta expresses how far the circular enlargement 223 projects relative to the outer surface 219.

[0225] As already said, H indicates the height of the connecting bands 29, 30, that is to say, the distance between the separation line 4 and the incision line 21, measured parallel to the axis Z, when the closure element 6 is in the closed position.

[0226] In the example illustrated, the height H is 2.8 mm.

[0227] The ratio R1 between the height H and half of the difference Delta is therefore 2.8/1.1, that is to say, 2.55.

[0228] It is advisable for the ratio R1 between the height H and half of the difference Delta, as they are defined above, to be greater than, or equal to 1.5. It is preferable for the above-mentioned ratio R1 to be greater than, or equal to, 2. It is even more preferable for R1 to be greater than, or equal to, 2.5.

[0229] That ensures that the height H of the connecting bands 29, 30 is correctly proportionate to how far the circular enlargement 223 projects from the outer surface 219.

[0230] More specifically, if the ratio R1 is less than 1.5, it may happen that between the joining portion 8 and the neck 218 the interference created is not sufficient to stably lock the closure element 6 in an open position in which the angle of opening A1 is greater than, or equal to, 120°, preferably greater than, or equal to, 140°.

[0231] In the example illustrated, half of the difference Delta between the external diameter Dmax of the circular enlargement 223 and the diameter Ds of the outer surface 219 of the neck 218, immediately above the circular enlargement 223, is Delta/2=1.1 mm.

[0232] It is possible to obtain a cap 201 which works correctly even with values of the difference Delta other than those mentioned above. In general, experimentation has shown that relatively low values of the difference Delta (and therefore of Delta/2) are helpful for obtaining a behaviour of the type shown in FIG. 10.

[0233] The joining portion 8 has an angular dimension W about the axis Z of the side wall, which has been explicitly indicated in FIG. 1 and which is definable in the same way with reference to the cap 201.

[0234] In the example illustrated, the angular dimension W of the joining portion 8 is 54°.

[0235] In general, the angular dimension W may be greater than, or equal to, 20°, preferably greater than, or equal to, 25°.

[0236] Moreover, the angular dimension W may be less than, or equal to, 120°, preferably less than, or equal to, 90°.

[0237] Experimentation has shown that, if the angular dimension W is greater than 120°, the connecting bands 29, 30 may break, when the closure element 6 is rotated in order to move it to the open position.

[0238] In contrast, if W is less than 20°, it may happen that the joining portion 8 does not succeed in stably keeping the closure element 6 in an open position in which the opening angle A1 is greater than, or equal to, 120°, preferably greater than, or equal to, 140°.

[0239] It is also possible to define a distance Y, shown in FIG. 8, between the circular enlargement 223 and the at least one removable fixing element provided on the neck 219. In other words, the distance Y is measured between the upper limit of the circular enlargement 223 and the starting point of the outer thread 217.

[0240] The distance Y may be greater than, or equal to, half of the distance between the separation line 4 and the incision line 21, that is to say, half the height H. However, this condition is not necessary.

[0241] It is possible to define an angle A, indicated in FIG. 8, formed between a generatrix of the truncated cone shaped portion 224 and a straight line parallel to the longitudinal axis Z1.

[0242] In the example illustrated, the angle A is 30°.

[0243] More generally, the angle A is preferably less than, or equal to, 35°.

[0244] That reduces the risk of the joining portion 8 not sliding correctly on the circular enlargement 223, in particular near the external diameter Dmax, for then stably stopping in contact with the neck 218.

[0245] When the user wishes to reclose the container, the closure element 6 can be returned to the closed position with a sequence of operations in reverse order compared with that previously described. In particular, the user rotates the closure element 6 relative to the neck 218 in order to return it to the closed position. Consequently, the joining portion 8 is also rotated, so as to return the edge 50 below the connecting bands 29, 30, in a position facing the retaining ring 5. When the edge 50 disengages from the neck 218, the user perceives a vibration or snap-motion feedback, which may (but not necessarily) be accompanied by a “click” sound. In this way, the user realises that the closure element 6 is ready to be screwed onto the neck 218 again. In effect, the disengagement position has been reached, starting from which the closure element 6 can be screwed onto the neck 218 again for moving it to the closed position.

[0246] In the example described so far, the separation line 4 is located in a portion of the side wall 2 wherein the knurling lines 13 are present.

[0247] However, this condition is not necessary. In an alternative embodiment not illustrated, the separation line 4 may be made in a portion of the side wall 2 wherein the latter is externally delimited by a substantially smooth outer surface. That is to say, the separation line 4 may be positioned in a portion of the side wall 2 free of knurling lines 13, for example interposed between the knurling lines 13 and the free edge 16. Consequently, in the alternative embodiment just described, the connecting bands 29, 30 are externally delimited by a smooth surface, that is to say, a surface free of knurling lines.

[0248] The cap 201 is also particularly easy to make.

[0249] In effect, the cap 201 may be obtained starting from a concave body comprising the side wall 2 and the transversal wall 3. The concave body is produced by moulding a polymeric material, for example compression moulding or injection moulding.

[0250] After the concave body has been formed, the separation line 4 and the incision line 21 are made on the side wall 2.

[0251] The separation line 4 and the incision line 21 may be made by cutting operations, for example performed in a cutting unit located downstream of a mould in which the concave body has been formed. Such cutting operations may be performed by respective blades, for example circular or linear, which interact with the side wall 2 from the outside of the latter, or from the inside. In particular, the concave body may be rotated about the axis Z of the side wall 2, while the blades are held in their position, so as to bring consecutive zones of the side wall 2 to interact, one after another, with the blades. It is also possible to hold the concave body in its position and to rotate the blades, for making the cut.

[0252] The blades which allow the separation line 4 and the incision line 21 to be obtained may be configured to interact with the side wall 2 in respective parallel planes, for example perpendicular to the axis Z, if, as in the desired examples, the separation line 4 and the incision line 21 are to lie in respective parallel planes.

[0253] The blades may have an interrupted cutting edge, if, along the separation line 4 the breakable bridges 7 are to remain defined and/or if, along the incision line 21, respective breakable elements are to remain defined.

[0254] It is also possible that the blades do not cut through the entire thickness of the side wall 2, instead only partially cutting through thickness of the side wall 2, so as to leave, along the incision line 21 and/or along the separation line 4, a thin membrane intended to be broken the first time the cap is opened.

[0255] The separation line 4 and the incision line 21 may be made simultaneously, or during two separate steps.

[0256] The cap 201 is therefore particularly easy to produce, since the concave body can be formed in an ordinary mould. There is no need for undercut parts or thin parts other than those normally provided for a cap of the known type.

[0257] An additional operation, that is to say, making the incision line 21, may be performed very simply while the separation line 4 is obtained.

[0258] FIGS. 11 and 12 show a cap 301 for closing a container, particularly a bottle intended to contain a liquid substance such as a drink. The cap 301 is made of polymeric material. Any polymeric suitable for being moulded can be used to obtain the cap 301.

[0259] The cap 301 is shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 in a closed position in which the cap 301 is when it leaves a cap production line, ready to be applied on the container. In this condition, the cap 301 comprises a side wall 302 which extends about an axis Y, and a transversal wall 303 located at an end of the side wall 302, so as to close the end. The transversal wall 303 extends transversally, in particular perpendicularly, to the axis Y. The transversal wall 303 may be flat, even though other shapes are theoretically possible. In the example illustrated, the transversal wall 303 has a substantially circular shape in plan view.

[0260] The cap 301 has a separation line 304, arranged on the side wall 302 and extending about the axis Y. The separation line 304 extends on a plane arranged transversally, in particular perpendicularly, to the axis Y. The separation line 304 forms on the cap 301 a retaining ring 305 and a closure element 306. The latter are arranged on opposite sides of the separation line 304. As described in more detail below, when the cap 301 is moved to an open position, the closure element 306 separates from the retaining ring 305 along the separation line 304.

[0261] Along the separation line 304 there may be a plurality of breakable bridges 307 which connect the retaining ring 305 to the closure element 306. The breakable bridges 307 are intended to be broken the first time the cap 301 is moved to the open position, to signal that the container is no longer intact. The separation line 304 may be parallel to a free edge 316 of the cap 301. More specifically, the free edge 316 delimits the retaining ring 305 on the opposite side to the transversal wall 303.

[0262] The separation line 304 does not extend for an entire angle of 360° about the axis Y. The separation line 304 is interrupted in the circumferential direction, so as to define on the side wall 302 a joining portion 308, at which the closure element 306 remains joined to the retaining ring 305.

[0263] In other words, the separation line 304 has a first end 309 and a second end 310. The joining portion 308 is interposed between the first end 309 and the second end 310. At the joining portion 308, the retaining ring 305 is joined to the closure element 306.

[0264] As shown in FIG. 11, the joining portion 308 has an angular dimension W1 about the axis Y.

[0265] In the example shown, the closure element 306 has a cup-shaped body and comprises a skirt 311 which extends about the axis Y. The skirt 311 is connected to the transversal wall 303, arranged at the end of the skirt 311 opposite the separation line 304. More specifically, the skirt 311 is connected to the transversal wall 303 by a connecting zone 312, which may be shaped, in cross section, like a beveled edge or a circular connection portion.

[0266] The skirt 311 has, on an inner surface thereof, a removably fixing arrangement, not shown, by which the closure element 306 can removably engage with a neck 318 of the container, shown in FIGS. 14 and 15. The removably fixing arrangement can comprise, for example, an inner thread intended to engage with an outer thread 317, shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, formed on the neck 318.

[0267] The skirt 311 can have, on an outer surface thereof, a plurality of knurling lines 313, extending parallel to the axis Y and intended to facilitate gripping of the cap 301 by the user or by the capping machine which applies the cap 301 on the container to be closed.

[0268] The knurling lines 313 may continue also in the connecting zone 312 and/or in the retaining ring 305.

[0269] In the example shown, the skirt 311 comprises a cylindrical portion 314 on which the knurling lines 313 are made. The skirt 311 also comprises a wide portion 315 having a diameter larger than the cylindrical portion 314. The wide portion 315 may be delimited by a smooth outside surface, that is to say it can be free of knurling lines. This condition is not, however, necessary and the knurling lines could also extend on the wide portion 315. Between the cylindrical portion 314 and the wide portion 315 there may be a step 319.

[0270] The retaining ring 305 extends between the free edge 316 and the separation line 304. The retaining ring 305 may be delimited by a cylindrical or truncated cone shape outer surface. In the closed position of the cap 301 shown in FIG. 11, the retaining ring 305 is coaxial with the closure element 306.

[0271] The retaining ring 305 is provided internally with an engagement element 320, shown in FIG. 13, suitable for engaging with a circular enlargement 323, shown in FIG. 14, which projects from an outer surface of the neck 318. The engagement element 320 is configured to abut against the circular enlargement 323 so as to prevent axial movements of the retaining ring 305, away from the neck 318, when the closure element 306 is removed from the neck 318.

[0272] The engagement element 320 may be shaped like an annular element which is bent around the free edge 316 towards the inside of the retaining ring 305. In an alternative embodiment not illustrated, there may be a plurality of engagement elements, shaped like tabs which project from the free edge 316 and are bent towards the inside of the retaining ring 305. Alternatively, the engagement element 320 may be shaped like an enlargement, continuous or interrupted, which from an inner surface of the retaining ring 305 projects towards the axis Y to engage with the circular enlargement 323.

[0273] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the cap 301 has a first incision line 321 and a second incision line 322 provided on the side wall 302 and lying on two levels different to each other. More specifically, if the cap 301 is positioned in the same orientation which it will have after having been applied to the container, that is to say, with the transversal wall 303 facing upwards, the first incision line 321 is arranged below the separation line 304. On the other hand, the second cut 322 is arranged above the separation line 304. In other words, the first incision line 321 and the second incision line 322 are arranged on opposite sides of the separation line 304.

[0274] The first incision line 321 is arranged in a position closer to the free edge 316 than the second incision line 322. In effect, the first incision line 321 is arranged on the side of retaining ring 305, relative to the separation line 304.

[0275] The second incision line 322 is arranged in a position closer to the transversal wall 303 than the first incision line 321. In effect, the second incision line 322 is arranged on the side of the closure element 306, relative to the separation line 304.

[0276] The joining portion 308 is interposed between the first incision line 321 and the second incision line 322. The first incision line 321 and the second incision line 232 extend transversely to the axis Y, delimiting the joining portion 308 on opposite sides of the separation line 304.

[0277] In other words, the first incision line 321 and the second incision line 322 face each other, that is to say, are not offset, so that the joining portion 308 is interposed between them.

[0278] The first incision line 321 and the second incision line 322 have respective angular extensions A1 and A2, measured about the axis Y, greater than the angular distance (also measured about the axis Y) between the first end 309 and the second end 310 of the separation line 304, that is to say, of the angular dimension W1 of the joining portion 308. For example, the angular extension A1 of the first incision line 321 and the angular extension A2 of the second incision line 322 may be between 60° and 200°, for example between 75° and 180°. The angular dimension W1 of the joining portion 308 about the axis Y, that is to say, the angular distance between the first end 309 and the second end 310 of the separation line 304, may be between 5° and 75°, for example between 10° and 40°.

[0279] The first incision line 321 and the second incision line 322 may have the same angular extension about the axis Y, or angular extensions about the axis Y which are different from each other. In other words, the angular extensions A1 and A2 can be identical or different from each other.

[0280] In the example shown, the joining portion 308 is centred relative to the first separation line 321 and to the second separation line 322. In other words, the midpoint of the separation line 321, the midpoint of the separation line 322 and the centre line of the joining portion 308 are aligned with each other in a direction parallel to the axis Y, that is to say, they lie in a common plane which contains the axis Y. This condition is not however necessary, since a slight misalignment between the first incision line 321 and the second incision line 322 is permitted and/or a not perfectly centred positioning of the first incision line 321 and the second incision line 322 relative to the joining portion 308.

[0281] In the example shown, the first incision line 321 and the second incision line 322 each have a flat arched shape. However, other shapes are possible.

[0282] The first incision line 321 and the second incision line 322 may be parallel to each other, even though this condition is not necessary. For example, the first incision line 321 and the second incision line 322 might be slightly inclined relative to each other, or each might comprise a plurality of stretches having different inclinations, not necessarily parallel to each other. In the example shown, the first incision line 321 and the second incision line extend perpendicularly to the axis Y, that is to say, they extend on respective planes positioned transversally, in particular perpendicularly, to the axis Y. However, this condition is also unnecessary.

[0283] As shown in FIG. 1, the first incision line 321 has an end 327 and a further end 328. The end 327 extends outside the joining portion 308, beyond the first end 309 of the separation line 304. The further end 328 also extends outside the joining portion 308, but goes beyond the second end 310 of the separation line 304.

[0284] The first incision line 321 comprises a central part 324 interposed between a peripheral part 325 and a further peripheral part 326. The central part 324 faces the joining portion 308. The peripheral part 325 faces the separation line 304, in particular an end portion of the separation line 304. More precisely, the peripheral part 325 faces the separation line 304 in a zone between the first end 309 of the separation line 304 and the end 327 of the first incision line 321. The further peripheral part 326 faces the separation line 304, in particular a further end portion of the separation line 304. More specifically, the further peripheral part 326 faces the separation line 304 in a zone between the second end 310 of the separation line 304 and the further end 328 of the first incision line 321.

[0285] Between the peripheral part 325 of the first incision line 321 and a portion of the separation line 304 which starts from the first end 309, a connecting band 329 is defined for connecting the joining portion 308 to the retaining ring 305. Similarly, between the further peripheral part 326 of the first incision line 321 and a further portion of the separation line 304 which starts from the second end 310, a further connecting band 330 is defined for connecting the joining portion 308 to the retaining ring 305.

[0286] The second incision line 322 has an end 331 and a further end 332. The end 331 extends outside the joining portion 308, beyond the first end 309 of the separation line 304. The further end 332 also extends outside the joining portion 308, but goes beyond the second end 310 of the separation line 304. The second incision line 322 comprises a central portion 333 interposed between a peripheral portion 334 and a further peripheral portion 335. The central portion 333 faces the joining portion 308. The peripheral portion 334 faces the separation line 304, in a zone between the first end 309 of the separation line 304 and the end 331 of the second incision line 322. The further peripheral portion 335 faces the separation line 304, in a zone between the second end 310 of the separation line 304 and the further end 332 of the second incision line 322.

[0287] Between the peripheral portion 334 of the second incision line 322 and a portion of the separation line 304 which starts from the first end 309, a connecting strip 336 is defined for connecting the joining portion 308 to the closure element 306. Similarly, between the further peripheral portion 335 of the second incision line 322 and a further portion of the separation line 304 which starts from the second end 310, a further connecting strip 337 is defined for connecting the joining portion 308 to the closure element 306.

[0288] In the example shown, the connecting band 329 and the connecting strip 336 are arranged symmetrically to the further connecting band 330 and respectively to the further connecting strip 337 relative to a plane containing the axis Y and a centre line of the joining portion 308.

[0289] The first incision line 321 is not connected in any way to the second incision line 322, that is to say, it is isolated from the second incision line 322. More specifically, on the cap 301 there are no incision lines which pass through the joining portion 308 for joining the first incision line 321 to the second incision line 322. This prevents adversely affecting the resistance of the joining portion 308.

[0290] The first incision line 321 and the second incision line 322 may be shaped as through cuts which pass through the entire thickness of the side wall 302. Even though this feature is not shown in the drawings, along the first incision line 321 and along the second incision line 322 there may be one or more breakable elements intended to break the first time the cap 301 is opened. Alternatively, the first incision line 321 and the second incision line 322 may be shaped as weakening lines that do not pass through the entire thickness of the side wall 302, but at which the thickness of the side wall 302 is reduced with respect to the surrounding zones.

[0291] At the first end 309 and at the second end 310 of the separation line 304, and/or at the end 327 and at the further end 328 of the first incision line 321, and/or at the end 331 and at the further end 332 of the second incision line 322, there can be incision zones 338, shown in FIG. 12. The incision zones 338 may have a circular geometry and in general have a transversal dimension greater than a width of the corresponding incision line or separation line. This makes it possible to prevent the propagation of fracture cracks starting from the incision or separation lines. In an alternative embodiment, the incision zones 338 may be absent.

[0292] In a central portion of the joining portion 308 there may be a stress reduction incision 339, having dimensions very limited relative to the dimensions of the joining portion 308, so as to not adversely affect the resistance of the joining portion 308. The stress reduction incision 339 makes it possible to increase the deformability of the central part of the joining portion 308, reducing the tensions in the surrounding zones. The presence of the stress reduction incision 339 is optional.

[0293] The cap 301 is applied to the neck 318 of the container in the closed position shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. The cap 301 is positioned in such a way that the engagement element 320 provided in the retaining ring 305 is below the circular enlargement 323 present on the neck 318.

[0294] When the user wishes to open the container for the first time, the user grips the skirt 311 of the closure element 306 and rotates the closure element 306 about the axis Y, in order to unscrew the closure element 306 from the neck 318. Initially, the closure element 306 and the retaining ring 305 are rotated together about the axis Y, and they simultaneously move together in a direction parallel to the axis Y, away from the neck 318. This occurs until the engagement element 320 of the retaining ring 305 abuts against the circular enlargement 323 provided on the neck 318. At this point, the circular enlargement 323 prevents the retaining ring 305 from rising further along the axis Y, acting as a stop for the movement of the retaining ring 305 away from the neck 318.

[0295] The closure element 306, which is unscrewed by the user, continues to move along the axis Y away from the neck 318. The breakable bridges 307 are thereby tensioned, until causing the failure. The closure element 306 consequently separates from the retaining ring 305 along the separation line 304, but remains joined to the retaining ring 305 at the joining portion 308. If the user continues to unscrew the closure element 306, so as to move the closure element 306 along the axis Y to remove it from the neck 318, the connecting bands 329, 330 and the connecting strips 336, 337 deform. More specifically, by moving the closure element 306 upwards, the connecting strips 336, 337 are also pulled upwards. Consequently, the connecting strips 336, 337 are spaced from the closure element 306 and remain joined to each other in the joining portion 308. The connecting bands 329, 330 are also pulled upwards and consequently move away from the retaining ring 305. The connecting bands 329, 330 remain joined to each other in the joining portion 308.

[0296] The connecting bands 329, 330 and the connecting strips 336, 337 thus adopt a “X” shape as shown in FIG. 13, in which the neck 318 of the container is not shown. In this configuration, the first connecting band 329 remains joined to the retaining ring 305 at the end 327 of the first incision line 321. Similarly, the second connecting band 330 remains joined to the retaining ring 305 at the further end 328 of the first incision line 321. The connecting strip 336 remains joined to the closure element 306 at the end 331 of the second incision line 322. The further connecting strip 337 remains joined to the closure element 306 at the further end 332 of the second incision line 322.

[0297] The connecting bands 329, 330 and the connecting strips 336, 337 are joined together in the joining portion 308.

[0298] The connecting bands 329, 330 are arranged in an inclined configuration relative to the retaining ring 305 and converge in the joining portion 308.

[0299] Similarly, the connecting strips 336, 337 are arranged in a configuration which is inclined relative to the closure element 306 and converge in the joining portion 308, on the opposite side relative to the connecting bands 329, 330.

[0300] Continuing to unscrew the closure element 306, the latter is disengaged from the outer thread 317 made on the neck 318, so that the container can be opened. The retaining ring 305 remains, however, anchored to the neck 318. The connecting bands 329, 330, the connecting strips 336, 337 and the joining portion 308 form a hinge arrangement 340, shown in FIG. 14, around which the closure element 306 can rotate to allow the user to access the contents of the container.

[0301] More specifically, by moving the closure element 306 about the hinge structure 340 after the closure element 306 has been disengaged from the neck 318, it is possible to move the closure element 306 to a lateral position relative to the neck 318, so that the closure element 306 is no longer coaxial with the retaining ring 305. Moreover, it is possible to vary the orientation of the concavity defined inside the closure element 306. The concavity does not therefore remain always facing downwards as occurs when the closure element 306 is applied to the container in the closed position.

[0302] The “X” configuration as shown in FIG. 13 is reached when the user is terminating the unscrewing of the closure element 306 from the neck 318 and the closure element 306 is about to be disengaged from the neck 318. Subsequently, when the closure element 306 is arranged in a lateral position relative to the neck 318, the connecting bands 329, 330 may move close again to the retaining ring 305, as shown in FIG. 14. It is now possible, as shown in FIG. 14, to rotate the closure element about an ideal line passing through the end 331 and the further end 332 of the second incision line 322, so that the concavity defined inside the closure element 306 faces mainly downwards.

[0303] At this point, as shown in FIG. 15, an edge zone 341 of the closure element 306, close to the separation line 311, can move towards the neck 318 until engaging with a projection that projects from the neck 318 towards the outside, for example with a portion of the external thread 317. The edge zone 341 may be diametrically opposite the joining portion 308.

[0304] In this way, the closure element 306 remains stably locked in a lateral position relative to the neck 318, far from a dispensing opening 342 formed inside the neck 318, by which it is possible to access the contents of the container. This prevents the closure element 306 from obstructing the access to the container and/or the escape from the container of the substance contained therein, returning to a position in which the dispensing opening 342 is at least partly obstructed. More specifically, if the container is a bottle containing a liquid which the user drinks resting his/her lips directly on the neck 318, it possible to avoid that the closure element 306 recloses prematurely, striking the user's face.

[0305] To summarize, in a first embodiment there is provided a cap for a container, comprising a side wall (302) extending about an axis (Y) and a transversal wall (303) arranged at an end of the side wall (302), a separation line (304) being provided on the side wall (302) for defining: [0306] a retaining ring (305) intended to remain anchored to a neck (318) of the container, and [0307] a closure element (306) which can removably engage the neck (318), so as to open or close the container;

[0308] wherein the separation line (304) extends about the axis (Y) and is circumferentially interrupted to define a joining portion (308) having an angular dimension (W1) about the axis (Y),

[0309] the cap (301) further having a first incision line (321) and a second incision line (322), which extend transversely to the axis (Y) for delimiting the joining portion (8) on opposite sides, the first incision line (321) and the second incision line (322) having respective angular extensions (A1, A2) about the axis (Y) greater than the angular dimension (W1) of the joining portion (308). In a second embodiment, there is provided a cap according to the first embodiment, wherein the first incision line (321) delimits at least partially a connecting band (329) and a further connecting band (330) which connect the retaining ring (305) to the joining portion (308), and wherein the second incision line 3(22) delimits at least partially a connecting strip (336) and a further connecting strip (337) which connect the closure element (306) to the joining portion (308).

[0310] In a third embodiment, there is provided a cap according to the second embodiment, wherein the connecting band (329) is defined between a peripheral part (325) of the first incision line (321) and an end portion of the separation line (304), the further connecting band (330) being defined between a further peripheral part (326) of the first incision line (321) and a further end portion of the separation line (304).

[0311] In a fourth embodiment, there is provided a cap according to the third embodiment, wherein the connecting strip (336) is defined between a peripheral portion (334) of the second incision line (322) and the end portion of the separation line (304), the further connecting strip (337) being defined between a further peripheral portion (335) of the second incision line (322) and the further end portion of the separation line (304).

[0312] In a fifth embodiment, there is provided a cap according to any one of embodiments from the second to the fourth, wherein the connecting band (329) and the connecting strip (336) are positioned symmetrically to the further connecting band (330) and respectively to the further connecting strip (337) relative to a plane containing the axis (Y) and a centre line of the joining portion (308).

[0313] In a sixth embodiment, there is provided a cap according to any one of embodiments from the first to the fifth, wherein, in an open position, the closure element (306) is rotatable about an ideal line passing through an end (331) of the second incision line (322) and through a further end (332) of the second incision line (322), so that an edge zone (341) of the closure element (306) diametrically opposite the joining portion (308) can be moved towards the joining portion (308) for engaging with the neck (318).

[0314] In a seventh embodiment, there is provided a cap according to any one of embodiments from the first to the sixth, wherein the first incision line (321) is isolated from the second incision line (322).

[0315] In an eighth embodiment, there is provided a cap according to any one of embodiments from the first to the seventh, wherein the first incision line (321) and the second incision line (322) extend on two levels different from each other.

[0316] In a ninth embodiment, there is provided a cap according to any one of embodiments from the first to the eighth, wherein the second incision line (322) is parallel to the first incision line (321).

[0317] In a tenth embodiment, there is provided a cap according to any one of embodiments from the first to the ninth, wherein the first incision line (321) and the second incision line (322) extend on respective planes parallel to a further plane on which the separation line (304) extends, the further plane being interposed between said respective planes.

[0318] In an eleventh embodiment, there is provided a cap according to any one of embodiments from the first to the tenth, wherein the angular extensions (A1, A2) of the first incision line (321) and the second incision line (322) are equal to each other.

[0319] In a twelfth embodiment, there is provided a cap according to any one of embodiments from the first to the eleventh, wherein the angular extensions (A1, A2) of the first incision line (321) and the second incision line (322) are each between 60° and 200°, for example between 75° and 180°.

[0320] In a thirteenth embodiment, there is provided a cap according to any one of embodiments from the first to the twelfth, wherein the angular dimension (W1) of the joining portion (308) is between 5° and 75°, for example between 10° and 40°.

[0321] In a fourteenth embodiment, there is provided a cap according to any one of embodiments from the first to the thirteenth, wherein the closure element (306) is provided with an internal thread intended to engage with an external thread (317) of the neck (318).