Abstract
A container for transporting and storing a liquid and with a dual function closure, the container comprises a container body with at least one inlet opening closed by a cap. The cap comprises a first and a second opening, as well as a first closure insert and a second closure insert. The first and second openings are each surrounded by a respective circumferential wall that comprises a shoulder. Each closure insert releasably engages with the respective shoulder such that the respective opening is fluid tightly closed. The cap comprises a locking means adapted to engage with a locking interface of a coupling device.
Claims
1. A container (100; 901; 1301; 2600) for transporting and storing a liquid (101) and with a dual function closure, the container comprising: a container body (103) with at least one inlet opening (104), a cap (105; 204; 301; 407; 600; 700; 902a; 1001; 1201; 1305) for closing the inlet opening of the container body wherein the cap is attached to the inlet opening (104; 908) of the container body, wherein the cap comprises a first opening (106; 205; 909) and a second opening (107; 206; 910), wherein the cap comprises a first closure insert (400; 713; 811; 1102; 1306; 1403) and a second closure insert (401; 714; 812; 1103; 1307), wherein the first opening (106; 205; 909) is surrounded by a first circumferential wall (108; 206; 307; 1402), wherein the first circumferential wall (108; 206; 307; 1402) comprises a first shoulder (200), wherein the second opening (107) is surrounded by a second circumferential wall (109; 207; 308), wherein the second circumferential wall (109; 207; 308) comprises a second shoulder (201), wherein the first closure insert (400; 713; 811; 1102; 1306; 1403) releasably engages with the first shoulder (200) such that the first opening (106; 205; 909) is fluid tightly closed, wherein the second closure insert (401; 714; 812; 1103; 1307) releasably engages with the second shoulder (201) such that the second opening (107; 206; 910) is fluid tightly closed, and wherein the cap (105; 204; 301; 600; 700; 902a; 1201; 1305) comprises a locking means (115, 116; 215; 315; 601, 602; 708; 1202, 1203) adapted to engage with a locking interface (302, 316; 1200, 1205) of a coupling device, wherein the locking means (115, 116; 215; 315; 601, 602; 708; 1202, 1203) is configured as a first part of a bayonet mount and is adapted to be engaged with a second part (316; 1205) of the bayonet mount of the locking interface of the coupling device.
2. A container according to claim 1, wherein the locking means (115, 116; 215; 315; 601, 602; 708; 1202, 1203) is positioned at a top surface (1204) of the cap.
3. A container according to one of claim 1, wherein the locking means (115, 116; 215; 315; 601, 602; 708; 1202, 1203) is embodied as a protrusion, and wherein the protrusion is configured to engage with a corresponding protrusion (316; 1205) of the locking interface (302; 1200) of the coupling device.
4. A container according to claim 1, wherein the first opening (106) has a first diameter and the second opening (107) has a second diameter, and wherein the first and second diameters are different from each other.
5. A container according to claim 1, wherein the first and the second closure insert (400; 713; 811; 1102; 1306; 1403; 401; 714; 812; 1103; 1307) each engage with the corresponding shoulder (200, 201; 705, 706) such that upon axially (202) pushing one of the closure inserts towards a bottom (110) of the container body (103) said closure insert disengages from the corresponding shoulder to be in a disengaged configuration, and wherein upon axially (202) pulling said closure insert from the disengaged configuration and in a direction away from the bottom (110) of the container body (103) said closure insert reengages with the corresponding shoulder such that the corresponding opening is again fluid tightly closed.
6. A container (100; 901; 1301; 2600) for transporting and storing a liquid (101) and with a dual function closure, the container comprising: a container body (103) with at least one inlet opening (104), a cap (105; 204; 301; 407; 600; 700; 902a; 1001; 1201; 1305) for closing the inlet opening of the container body, wherein the cap is attached to the inlet opening (104; 908) of the container body, wherein the cap comprises a first opening (106; 205; 909) and a second opening (107; 206; 910), wherein the cap comprises a first closure insert (400; 713; 811; 1102; 1306; 1403) and a second closure insert (401; 714; 812; 1103; 1307), wherein the first opening (106; 205; 909) is surrounded by a first circumferential wall (108; 206; 307; 1402), wherein the first circumferential wall (108; 206; 307; 1402) comprises a first shoulder (200), wherein the second opening (107) is surrounded by a second circumferential wall (109; 207; 308), wherein the second circumferential wall (109; 207; 308) comprises a second shoulder (201), wherein the first closure insert (400; 713; 811; 1102; 1306; 1403) releasably engages with the first shoulder (200) such that the first opening (106; 205; 909) is fluid tightly closed, wherein the second closure insert (401; 714; 812; 1103; 1307) releasably engages with the second shoulder (201) such that the second opening (107; 206; 910) is fluid tightly closed, and wherein the cap (105; 204; 301; 600; 700; 902a; 1201; 1305) comprises a locking means (115, 116; 215; 315; 601, 602; 708; 1202, 1203) adapted to engage with a locking interface (302, 316; 1200, 1205) of a coupling device, wherein the first closure insert (400; 713; 811) comprises at least one radially deformable sidewall (701, 702; 813), wherein the second closure insert (401; 714; 812) comprises at least one radially deformable sidewall (703, 704; 816), wherein the radially deformable sidewall of the first closure insert is adapted to releasably engage with the first shoulder (705), and wherein the radially deformable sidewall of the second closure insert is adapted to releasably engage with the second shoulder (706).
7. System for transporting and storing a liquid and for transporting said liquid from a container to a destination outside of the container, the system comprising: the container (100; 901; 1301; 2600) for transporting and storing a liquid and with a dual function closure, the container comprising: a container body (103) with at least one inlet opening (104), a cap (105; 204; 301; 407; 600; 700; 902a; 1001; 1201; 1305) for closing the inlet opening of the container body, wherein the cap is attached to the inlet opening (104; 908) of the container body, wherein the cap comprises a first opening (106; 205; 909) and a second opening (107; 206; 910), wherein the cap comprises a first closure insert (400; 713; 811; 1102; 1306; 1403) and a second closure insert (401; 714; 812; 1103; 1307), wherein the first opening (106; 205; 909) is surrounded by a first circumferential wall (108; 206; 307; 1402), wherein the first circumferential wall (108; 206; 307; 1402) comprises a first shoulder(200), wherein the second opening (107) is surrounded by a second circumferential wall (109; 207; 308), wherein the second circumferential wall (109; 207; 308) comprises a second shoulder (201), wherein the first closure insert (400; 713; 811; 1102; 1306; 1403) releasably engages with the first shoulder (200) such that the first opening (106; 205; 909) is fluid tightly closed, wherein the second closure insert (401; 714; 812; 1103; 1307) releasably engages with the second shoulder (201) such that the second opening (107; 206; 910) is fluid tightly closed, and wherein the cap (105; 204; 301; 600; 700; 902a; 1201; 1305) comprises a locking means (115, 116; 215; 315; 601, 602; 708; 1202, 1203) adapted to engage with a locking interface (302, 316; 1200, 1205) of a coupling device; and a coupling device (102) having a locking interface and configured to be mechanically coupled to the cap of the container (100; 901; 1301; 2600) by engaging the locking means (1202, 1203) of the cap with the locking interface of the coupling device so as to achieve a coupled configuration, wherein the locking interface (302) of the coupling device is configured as a second part of a bayonet mount, and the locking means (115, 116; 215; 315; 601, 602; 708; 1202, 1203) of the cap are embodied as a first part of the bayonet mount.
8. System according to claim 7, wherein the first and the second closure insert (400; 713; 811; 1102; 1306; 1403; 401; 714; 812; 1103; 1307) each engage with the corresponding shoulder (200, 201) such that upon axially (202) pushing one of the closure inserts towards a bottom (110) of the container body (103) said closure insert disengages from the corresponding shoulder to be in a disengaged configuration, and wherein upon axially (202) pulling said closure insert from the disengaged configuration and in a direction away from the bottom (110) of the container body (103) said closure insert re-engages with the corresponding shoulder such that the corresponding opening is again fluid tightly closed, wherein the coupling device is configured, to disengage the first closure insert from the first shoulder by axially pushing the first closure insert with the first probe when inserted into the first opening (909) and to disengage the second closure insert from the second shoulder by axially pushing the second closure insert with the second probe when inserted into the second opening (910).
9. System according to claim 7, wherein the locking interface of the coupling device is embodied as a locking collar (302) comprising a protrusion (316).
10. System for transporting and storing a liquid and for transporting said liquid from a container to a destination outside of the container, the system comprising: the container (100; 901; 1301; 2600) for transporting and storing a liquid and with a dual function closure, the container comprising: a container body (103) with at least one inlet opening (104), a cap (105; 204; 301; 407; 600; 700; 902a; 1001; 1201; 1305) for closing the inlet opening of the container body, wherein the cap is attached to the inlet opening (104; 908) of the container body, wherein the cap comprises a first opening (106; 205; 909) and a second opening (107; 206; 910), wherein the cap comprises a first closure insert (400; 713; 811; 1102; 1306; 1403) and a second closure insert (401; 714; 812; 1103; 1307), wherein the first opening (106; 205; 909) is surrounded by a first circumferential wall (108; 206; 307; 1402), wherein the first circumferential wall (108; 206; 307; 1402) comprises a first shoulder (200), wherein the second opening (107) is surrounded by a second circumferential wall (109; 207; 308), wherein the second circumferential wall (109; 207; 308) comprises a second shoulder (201), wherein the first closure insert (400; 713; 811; 1102; 1306; 1403) releasably engages with the first shoulder (200) such that the first opening (106; 205; 909) is fluid tightly closed wherein the second closure insert (401; 714; 812; 1103; 1307) releasably engages with the second shoulder (201) such that the second opening (107; 206; 910) is fluid tightly closed, and wherein the cap (105; 204; 301; 600; 700; 902a; 1201; 1305) comprises a locking means (115, 116; 215; 315; 601, 602; 708; 1202, 1203) adapted to engage with a locking interface (302, 316; 1200, 1205) of a coupling device; and a coupling device (102) having a locking interface and configured to be mechanically coupled to the cap of the container (100; 901; 1301; 2600) by engaging the locking means (1202, 1203) of the cap with the locking interface of the coupling device so as to achieve a coupled configuration, wherein the coupling device comprises: a first probe (801; 903; 1100) configured to be inserted into a first opening (909) of the cap, a second probe (904; 1101) configured to be inserted into a second opening (910) of the cap, the coupling device further comprising: a first sleeve (102c; 1106) configured to cover a first aperture (1108) of the first probe (1100), a first spring exerting (1110) a force onto the first sleeve (1106) forcing the first sleeve towards a position in which the first aperture is covered by the first sleeve, a second sleeve (102d; 1107) configured to cover a second aperture (1109) of the second probe (1101), and a second spring (1111) exerting a force onto the second sleeve (1107) forcing the second sleeve towards a position in which the second aperture is covered by the second sleeve.
11. System according to 10, wherein the locking interface of the coupling device is configured as a rotatable element which is at least partially rotatable around the first and second probes of the coupling device.
12. System according to claim 10, wherein the first probe (801) comprises a first aperture (406; 809; 108) and a first inner channel (803) which is connected to the first aperture, wherein the first probe has a coupling front section (820) adapted to couple with the first closure insert (811), such that upon pushing the first probe onto the first closure insert, the coupling front section couples with the first closure insert when in its engagement with the first shoulder (200) and upon further pushing of the first probe onto the first closure insert forces the first closure insert off its engagement with the first shoulder such that the first aperture (809) is accessible from an inner volume (111) of the container body (103), and wherein the second probe comprises a second aperture (406; 810; 1109) and a second inner channel (804) which is connected to the second aperture, wherein the second probe has a coupling front section (821) adapted to couple with the second closure insert, such that upon pushing the second probe onto the second closure insert, the coupling front section couples with the second closure insert when in its engagement with the second shoulder (201) and upon further pushing of the second probe onto the second closure insert forces the second closure insert off its engagement with the second shoulder such that the second aperture (810) is accessible from an inner volume (111) of the container body (103).
13. Method of transporting a liquid from a container to a destination outside of the container, the method comprising: providing a system for transporting and storing a liquid and for transporting said liquid from the container to a destination outside of the container, the system comprising: a container (100; 901; 1301; 2600) for transporting and storing a liquid and with a dual function closure the container comprising: a container body (103) with at least one inlet opening (104), a cap (105; 204; 301; 407; 600; 700; 902a; 1001; 1201; 1305) for closing the inlet opening of the container body, wherein the cap is attached to the inlet opening (104; 908) of the container body, wherein the cap comprises a first opening (106; 205; 909) and a second opening (107; 206; 910), wherein the cap comprises a first closure insert (400; 713; 811; 1102; 1306; 1403) and a second closure insert (401; 714; 812; 1103; 1307), wherein the first opening (106; 205; 909) is surrounded by a first circumferential wall (108; 206; 307; 1402), wherein the first circumferential wall (108; 206; 307; 1402) comprises a first shoulder (200), wherein the second opening (107) is surrounded by a second circumferential wall (109; 207; 308), wherein the second circumferential wall (109; 207; 308) comprises a second shoulder (201), wherein the first closure insert (400; 713; 811; 1102; 1306; 1403) releasably engages with the first shoulder (200) such that the first opening (106; 205; 909) is fluid tightly closed, wherein the second closure insert (401; 714; 812; 1103; 1307) releasably engages with the second shoulder (201) such that the second opening (107; 206; 910) is fluid tightly closed, and wherein the cap (105; 204; 301; 600; 700; 902a; 1201; 1305) comprises a locking means (115, 116; 215; 315; 601, 602; 708; 1202, 1203) adapted to engage with a locking interface (302, 316; 1200, 1205) of a coupling device; and a coupling device (102) having a locking interface and configured to be mechanically coupled to the cap of the container (100; 901; 1301; 2600) by engaging the locking means (1202, 1203) of the cap with the locking interface of the coupling device so as to achieve a coupled configuration, wherein the container (100; 901; 1301; 2600) stores a liquid, the method further comprising: coupling the container to the coupling device by engaging the locking means (115, 116; 215; 315; 601, 602; 708; 1202, 1203) of cap with the locking interface (302, 316; 1200, 1205) of the coupling device, disengaging the first closure insert and the first shoulder and/or disengaging the second closure insert and the second shoulder, and transporting the liquid from the container body through at least one of the first opening and the second opening to the destination outside of the container, wherein the locking means of the cap is configured as a first part of a bayonet mount and the locking interface of the coupling device is configured as a second part of the bayonet mount that is rotatable, the fixing step comprising rotating the locking interface of the coupling device such that the bayonet mount formed by the locking interface and the locking means of the cap is locked.
14. Method according to claim 13, further comprising: inserting the first probe into the first opening of the cap and inserting the second probe into the second opening of the cap, thereby disengaging the first closure insert and the first shoulder by axially pushing the first closure insert by the first probe and disengaging the second closure insert and the second shoulder by axially pushing the second closure insert by the second probe, engaging the locking means (1202, 1203) of cap with the locking interface of the coupling device such that the coupling device and the cap of the container are fixed, transporting the liquid from the container body through at least one of the first opening and the second opening to the destination outside of the container.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
(1) Exemplary embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the following drawings.
(2) FIG. 1 schematically shows a container, a cap and a coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(3) FIG. 2 shows a cross section of a cap as used in an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(4) FIGS. 3a and 3b schematically show a cap with a coupling device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(5) FIG. 4 schematically shows a cap coupled to a coupling device, a first and a second closure insert which are engaged with the first and second probes of the coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(6) FIG. 5 schematically shows a tamper evident cap in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(7) FIG. 6 shows a cap with a tamper evident cap as used in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
(8) FIG. 7 shows a cross section through a cap in which first and second closure inserts are inserted and into which first and second probes are introduced according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(9) FIGS. 8a and b schematically show the interaction between the first and second probes with first and second closure inserts according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(10) FIG. 9 schematically shows a system for draining and venting a container according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(11) FIG. 10 schematically shows a cap with a nozzle in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(12) FIG. 11 schematically shows probes and a probe holder used in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(13) FIG. 12 schematically shows a cap with locking means and a locking collar or a locking ring in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(14) FIG. 13 schematically shows a container according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(15) FIG. 14 schematically shows the mechanical interaction between a shoulder, a closure insert and a probe used in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(16) FIGS. 15 and 16 schematically show a closure insert in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(17) FIGS. 17 and 18 schematically show a coupling front section adapted to couple with a closure insert as depicted in FIGS. 15 and 16 as used in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
(18) FIG. 19 schematically shows a docking station for cleaning the coupling device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(19) FIGS. 20 to 22 show different aspects of a system for delivering the liquid from a container to another container in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
(20) FIG. 23 schematically shows a container with specific thread according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(21) FIG. 24 schematically shows a crop protection spray system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(22) FIG. 25 schematically shows a flow diagram of a method of transporting a liquid container to a destination outside of the container according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
(23) In principle, identical parts are provided with the same or similar reference symbols in the figures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
(24) FIG. 1 schematically shows a container 100 for transporting and storing a liquid and with a dual functional closure. The container 100 of FIG. 1 comprises a container body 103 with at least one inlet opening 104. A springless cap 105 is shown which is configured to close the inlet opening of the container body 103. The cap 105 is embodied as a relatively cheap product and as a disposable product. As illustrated by arrow 112 the cap can be attached to the inlet opening of the container body by appropriate attachment means.
(25) The cap 105 comprises a first opening 106 and a second opening 107 both extending vertically, i.e. in the direction from the top to the bottom of FIG. 1. This direction is termed axially herein and is precisely defined, in general, with respect to axis 202 of FIG. 2. In the first opening the first closure insert can be inserted and in the second opening a second closure insert can be inserted. However, due to illustrative reasons the first and second closure inserts are not shown in FIG. 1.
(26) Moreover, FIG. 1 shows a coupling device 102 which is configured to be coupled to the cap 105 via its two probes 102a, 102b. The probes protrude protruding from a surface of the coupling device 102.
(27) Locking means 115 and 116 are provided on a top surface of the cap 105. Here the locking means are embodied as inverted L-shaped protrusions 115, 116 at diametrically opposed position on the top of the cap. As can be seen, in this example, the horizontal or upper leg of each of the L-shaped protrusions is outwardly directed relative to the vertical leg that is integral with the rest of the cap.
(28) The container 100 shown in FIG. 1 can particularly have a size of 1 liter, 5 liters and 10 liters. It should be noted that also other volumes may be used with the cap and with the coupling device shown in FIG. 1. Also other sizes and volumes are possible.
(29) In an exemplary embodiment that can be combined with the embodiment of FIG. 1 the cap 105 and the closure inserts are made of high density polyethylene (HDPE), fluorodized HDPE, polyamide, polyoxymethylene (POM), also known as acetal,[1] polyacetal and polyformaldehyde, or polyethylene terephthalate, or any combination thereof.
(30) The two probes 102a, 102b shown at the coupling device 102 are surrounded by two sleeves 102c, 102d which are attached movably such that the sleeves can be pushed along the longitudinal axis of the two probes. In such a situation, the two springs 113, 114 of the coupling device would be pressed to a compressed state. When inserting the probes of the coupling device 102 into the cap 105, such a movement of the two sleeves and such a compression of the two springs is realized. This aspect will be elucidated further in the context of FIGS. 11 and 13.
(31) FIG. 2 shows a cap 204 as used in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Also cap 204 is embodied as a disposable product.
(32) FIG. 2 schematically shows a cross section through the cap 204 which is configured for closing the inlet opening of a container body of a container. The springless cap 204 comprises a first opening 205 having a first engagement shoulder 200 and also comprises a second opening 206 which comprises a second engagement shoulder 201. Axis 202 depicts the axial extension of the openings 205 and 206. Along this axis 202 the probes 102a, 102b of the coupling device 102 may be introduced into the cap 204 to make contact with the respective closure insertsas shown in FIG. 7that are then engaged at their position at the first and second shoulders 200 and 201.
(33) As can be seen from FIG. 2 the springless cap 204 comprises an internal thread 203 that is configured to be threadedly engaged with a corresponding thread of the container.
(34) As can be seen in FIG. 2 the first and second shoulders 200 and 201 are circumferential shoulders protruding from the inner surfaces of the respective circumferential wall 207 and 208 of the openings. It should be noted, that the shoulder according to the present invention does not have to be a circumferential shoulder but can only be a protrusion that extends along partial sections of the circumferential wall 207 and 206 respectively.
(35) The first opening 205 has a first diameter which differs from the second diameter of the second opening 206. Therefore, a physically coding is presented which determines the ability of the respective opening of the cap to mate with a respective probe of the coupling device. If desired the cap can also be embodied with two openings 205, 206 which have the same diameter.
(36) As will be explained in the following, the coupling device may also be seen as a dispensing device which facilitates dispensing the liquid from the container via at least one of the openings of the cap.
(37) As can be gathered from FIG. 2 recessions or grooves 209 and 210 are provided in the second or inner side of the cap, in particular behind the circumferential walls that engage with the closure inserts, such that said walls have an increased flexibility. Upon pressing the closure inserts out of the engagement with these walls, the walls may thus deflect outwardly. This aspect will also be described in detail in the context of FIG. 7.
(38) FIG. 2 also depicts an inverted L-shaped protrusions 215 at the top of the cap to form a locking means of the cap.
(39) FIGS. 3a and 3b are two depictions of one system for draining and venting a container according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In particular FIG. 3a shows a cross section through the system 300 wherein the left-hand or first probe is not shown for reasons of clarity.
(40) On top of springless cap 301 the locking collar or locking ring 302 is positioned and the claw/protrusion 315 of the cap 301 engages with the corresponding claw/protrusion 316 at the locking collar 302. Moreover a probe holder 303 of the coupling device is shown which comprises a first opening 312 and a second opening 313 in which the first and second probes are inserted. Moreover, an air inlet valve 311 is schematically shown in FIG. 3a which connects to the first opening 312 and to the first probe that is normally arranged therein.
(41) Cap 301 comprises an internal thread 310 and can be screwed onto the neck of an inlet opening of a container.
(42) The second probe 305 is depicted in FIG. 3a and also a spring 304 which is part of the coupling device is shown. The spring 304 is used for pushing the sleeve 306 or jacket over the extraction apertures of the probe 305 as the spring exerts a force onto the sleeve. This mechanism will be described in more detail in the context of another embodiment, the embodiment of FIG. 11. Moreover, spring 304 may improve the decoupling process. Consequently, due to the closing of the aperture of probe 305 being-automatically induced by the spring 304, no water or crop protection chemical leaks from the probe 305 when the coupling device is disconnected from the cap. Moreover, the user is protected from coming into contact with the parts which serve as a duct for the liquid. However, for the procedure of disengaging or engaging the first and second closure inserts with the shoulders of the circumferential walls the spring 304 is not relevant and has no function. Therefore, the closing mechanism of provided by the cap 301 is based on springless technology. Consequently also the cap 301 of FIGS. 3a and 3b is a springless cap.
(43) Moreover, circumferential walls 307 and 308 of the cap 301 are shown.
(44) The cap 301 comprises edges or protrusions 314 for providing a good grip during screwing the cap onto the container.
(45) If desired a propeller 309 can be mounted within the container and can be driven by incoming rinsing water to distribute the water during washing.
(46) FIG. 4 schematically shows a disengaged configuration 402 of the first and second closure inserts 400 and 401 from the shoulder (not shown here) in the respective openings of cap 407. The cap 407 is coupled with the coupling device or dispensing device 408 such that the first probe 404 and the second probe 403 are extending through the cap 407 into the volume below the cap 407, the interior of the container. Thus, in this situation the first and second openings of the cap are opened. As shown in FIG. 4, for clarity, the coupled cap and coupling device are not attached to a container, however, in such an attached configuration the first and second probes 404 and 403 extend into the inner volume of the container. Due to the apertures 406 in both probes 403, 404 the liquid can be guided by one or both of the probes into the container or from the container to the outside of the container. Due to the dual function closure simultaneous emptying and venting the container may be facilitated. Consequently, the container can be used and liquid drained very fast without the risk of imploding and rigid containers can be drained with this cap. As can be seen from FIG. 4 a sealing means 405, in particular a sealing ring, is comprised by each of the probes 404 and 403. Also other sealing means may be used.
(47) The coupling device 408 is configured to disengage the first closure insert 400 and the first shoulder by axially pushing the first closure insert 400 with the first probe 404. In a similar way, the coupling device is configured to disengage the second closure insert 401 and the second shoulder by axially pushing the second closure insert 401 with the second probe 403.
(48) To disengage the closure inserts 401 and 402 from the respective wall of the cap 407 the coupling device 408 comprising two probes 403, 404 can be used. The closure inserts may be engaged with the respective circumferential wall, as for example shown in FIG. 2 or 7, such that a first force is needed to push the closure inserts out of their respective engagement. Further, to engage a coupling front section of the respective probe with the corresponding closure insert a second force is needed. This second force can also be applied by pushing the two probes onto the two closure inserts. In a preferred embodiment, the first force is larger than the second force. Thus, when pushing the two probes onto the two closure inserts 400, 401 and when increasing the applied force, first the two closure inserts are engaged with the coupling front sections of the probes and subsequently, when further increasing the force, the closure inserts are pressed out of their engagement with the cap and the two openings of the cap are opened as shown in FIG. 4. The two closure inserts, the cap, i.e. the shoulders of the two openings, and the coupling front sections of the two probes are shaped such that this opening and closure mechanism is provided. Further details hereof are provided in the context of other embodiments, for example in the context of FIG. 7.
(49) FIG. 5 schematically shows a tamper evident cap 500 which can be positioned on top of the first and second openings of a springless cap in accordance with exemplary embodiment of the invention. The tamper evident cap 500 can also be used as dust protection and can be used and placed on top of the cap several times. The tamper evident cap 500 can be fixed on the cap by means of friction between the two circular elements 503 and 504 and between corresponding walls of the openings of the cap. The tamper evident cap 500 comprises a top plane 501 at which a grasping element 502 is provided. In the perspective, sectional view of the tamper evident cap in FIG. 5 the two circular elements 503 and 504 are shown as a semi circles. They are provided for being engaged with the openings of the cap and to close said openings. Moreover, grooves 505 and 506 are positioned at the circular walls 503 and 504 are shown.
(50) FIG. 6 schematically shows a cap 600 with a tamper evident cap 500 for safely securing the openings of the cap 600.
(51) Locking means 601 and 602 are provided on a top surface of the cap 600. The protrusions 601 and 602 have an L shaped cross section and are positioned on opposing sides of the top surface 600.
(52) Tamper evident cap 600 may also be level with elements 601 and 602 and may thus protrude more than shown in FIG. 6. Elements 601 and 602 may also be seen as annular undercuts that releasably engage with the locking interface of the of the coupling device.
(53) FIG. 7 schematically shows a cross section through a cap 700 as used in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. A first closure insert 713 and a second closure insert 714 are provided. Moreover, the first probe 709 is partially shown in FIG. 7 as well as second probe 710. In particular, the coupling sections of the first and second probes are depicted here. The cap 700 of FIG. 7 comprises an internal thread 707. Moreover, the locking means 708 facilitate an engagement with a locking collar of a coupling device. The first closure insert 713 comprises several radially deformable sidewall parts 701 and 702. Moreover, the second closure insert 714 comprises several radially deformable sidewall parts 703 and 704. The radially deformable sidewall parts are each adapted to releasably engage with the respective shoulder 705 and 706 of the respective openings of the cap. As can be gathered from surface 711 of the first probe 709 and the surface 712 of the first closure insert 713 a form closure, at least partially, between the coupling section at the front end of the first probe and the first closure insert is provided. The same holds true in a similar way for the combination of the second probe and the second closure insert. Consequently, by axially pushing, by means of the probes, the closure inserts towards the bottom of the container, i.e. from the top to the bottom of FIG. 7, the radially deformable sidewalls 701, 702, 703 and 704, are deflected inwardly and they move into a respective recess of the probe. Said recesses are embodied in the example of FIG. 7 as a circumferentially extending deepening. However, also other embodiments are possible. For example, the probes may comprise an elastically deformable section which can be compressed by the radially deformable sidewalls during their deflection. Due to the radial deflection along the inward direction the closure inserts are disengaged with the shoulders of 705 and 706 and due to the applied pressure the closure inserts are coupled with the probes, i.e. engaged with the probes. Thus, by further pushing the respective closure inserts with the respective probes the cap can be opened at the first and second openings. Furthermore, upon axially pulling the closure inserts 713, 714 from the disengaged configuration and in a direction away from the bottom of the container body (i.e. from the bottom to the top of FIG. 7), the closure inserts can be reengaged with the corresponding shoulder 705, 706 such that the corresponding opening of the cap 700 is again fluid tightly closed. Moreover, FIG. 7 shows recessions or grooves 715, 716 and 717 which are positioned in bottom or inner side of the cap for enhancing the deflectability of the engaging parts of the cap. The circumferential walls as described herein engage with the corresponding closure inserts 713, 714 such that said walls having the shoulders 705, 706 have an increased flexibility. Upon pressing the closure inserts out of the engagement with these walls, these walls can thus deflect outwardly.
(54) FIGS. 8a and 8b are two illustrations of probes and closure inserts used in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Therein, FIG. 8a is a complete depiction of a first probe 801 and a second probe 802 and first closure insert 811 and second closure insert 812 whereas FIG. 8b is a cross sectional view of said elements. First probe 801 comprises a first internal channel 803 which is connected to the first aperture 809. A circumferential recess 807 provides enough space for the inwardly moving sidewall parts 813 of the closure insert 810. A circumferential edge 808 extends around the complete circumference of the first probe 801. Moreover, the coupling front section 820 of the probe 801 is shown which is adapted to be coupled with the first closure insert 811. If desired form closures between the section 820 and the deformable sidewall of the closure insert can be used. Several radially deformable sidewall parts 813,816 are depicted and also a recess 814,815 between adjacent parts 813,816 is shown in FIG. 8a. In a similar way, the second probe 802 comprises a second aperture 810 and has a second inner channel 804 which is connected to the second aperture 810. The coupling front section 821 of the second probe is adapted to couple with the second closure insert 812 such that upon pushing the second probe onto the second closure insert the coupling front section 821 couples with the second closure insert. Such a coupling is also achieved during the engagement of the second closure insert with the second shoulder as depicted with 201 in FIG. 2. Upon further pushing of the second probe onto the second closure insert the second closure insert is forced off its engagement with the second shoulder such that the second aperture 810 is accessible from an inner volume of the container body. The same principle applies for the previously described first probe 801 and first closure insert 811.
(55) As can be seen from the cross sectional view of FIG. 8b the closure inserts each comprise a bottom 819 as well as an angled section 818 that builds the form closure with an angled counter part of the front section 820. Aspects of the form closure have been described previously and will be disclosed in more detail in the following. Moreover, the protrusion 817 of the radially deformable sidewall part 813 facilitates the mechanical engagement for engaging and re-engaging the closure inserts with the respective shoulder.
(56) FIG. 9 schematically shows a closed transfer system for liquids according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The system 900 is for draining and venting a container 901. A coupling device is provided which is configured to be mechanically coupled to the cap of the container to be in a coupled configuration shown with 907. The coupling device comprises a first probe 903 which is configured to be inserted into the first opening 909 of the cap 902a. Furthermore, a second probe 904 is comprised to be inserted into the second opening 910. As has been described before, the coupling device is configured to disengage the closure inserts and the shoulders by applying a mechanical pressure onto the inserts. For illustrative reasons the closure inserts are not shown in FIG. 9. Moreover, the probe holder 906 and the locking collar 905 are shown in FIG. 9 and additionally conduits like hoses and a pump or other devices configured to drain the liquids from the container may be comprised. On the left hand side of FIG. 9 the complete set up is provided such that a system with a high transfer rate, a venting functionality, a compatibility with liquids and a low cost production is provided. In summary, a convenient way of draining a container with a simultaneous venting function and the possibility to flush subsequently the container with the same closed transfer system is provided. 902b shows a cross section of cap 902a.
(57) FIG. 10 schematically shows a combination 1000 comprising a springless cap 1001 that is provided on its second or inner side with a nozzle 1002 that is aligned with one opening of the cap. The nozzle has openings on its bottom. The nozzle 1002 here obscures the respective closure insert from view. Moreover, the closure insert 1003 is depicted in FIG. 10 in its engaging position in which the respective opening of the cap is fluid tightly closed. The nozzle 1002 increases the cleaning efficiency during washing or cleaning the container by means of the herein presented closed transfer system. Moreover, the nozzle prevents an air shortcut in case high viscosity materials are used. In other words, the air which is guided into the container via the coupling device and via the cap could disadvantageously be sucked directly out of the system which might negatively affect the transferring rate. According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention a propeller is installed within the container which is driven by the incoming rinsing water and which distributes the water within the container during washing.
(58) FIG. 11 schematically shows first and second probes 1100, 1101 and probe holder 1104. The coupling device makes use of the first sleeve 1106 and a second sleeve 1107 which further increases security for the user and decreases spillages of the liquid from the probes. The first and second sleeves each comprises a collar 1113, 1112 as blocking elements which is shaped around the circumference of the respective sleeve. The two collars are configured to engage with a respective part of the cap, e.g. the cap shown in FIG. 12, such that upon insertion of the probes of the coupling device into the cap, the first and second sleeves are pressed backwards to release or uncover the respective aperture of the probe. Consequently, the first and second sleeve are providing for a valve function, which gets into the open configuration when the coupling device is pressed onto the cap of the container. For this purpose the cap as described herein may comprise a first and second receiving section which is configured to engage with the first and second collars of the first and second sleeves to exert the force onto the sleeves which is needed to move them away from the container, i.e. in the backward direction. In detail, the first sleeve 1106 is pushed by the first spring 1110 towards the position at which the first extraction aperture 1108 is covered by the first sleeve, i.e. in a closed configuration. The same holds true for the second sleeve 1107, the second spring 1111 and the second extraction aperture 1109. Consequently, when decoupling the coupling device from the cap the sleeves automatically close the apertures such that no liquid is spilled. Moreover, the perspective shown in FIG. 11 shows that the second closure inserts 1102 and 1103 can be disengaged with the slanted top end of the probes. The cross section 1105 of probe holder 1104 depicts two openings for inserting the probes.
(59) FIG. 12 schematically shows cap 1201 having two bayonet locking means 1202 and 1203 which are positioned at the top of surface 1204 of cap 1201. The locking collar or locking ring 1200 has one corresponding protrusion 1205 per means 1202, 1203 for fixing the probe holder 1104 to the cap 1201. Such a fixation may be carried out by a first translational movement of the collar towards the cap along axis 202 shown in FIG. 2 whilst the probes enter into the openings, and a subsequent rotational second movement of the collar. When engaging the protrusion 1201 with the slit below the claws 1202 locking is achieved between the locking collar and the cap. As said before, the locking collar comprises locking means that are configured to engage with locking means 1202, 1203 of the cap, such that a fixation of the coupling device at the container is achieved by rotation.
(60) In other words, locking ring 1200 may be seen as an embodiment of the locking interface which is configured as a second part of a bayonet mount for being engaged with the first part of the bayonet mount at the cap 1201 of the container. The locking interface 1200 is configured as a rotatable element which is at least partially rotatable around the first and second probes of the coupling device, shown e.g. in FIG. 11 The protrusions 1202, 1203 are configured as the first part of a bayonet mount for being engaged with a second part of the bayonet mount at the coupling device. This facilitates a secure fastening of the coupling device at the container at which cap 1201 is fixed.
(61) FIG. 13 shows another exemplary embodiment of a container with a dual function closure and the corresponding closed transfer system. The container 1301 comprises a cap 1305 in which the first and second closure inserts 1306, 1307 are inserted such that they engage with the respective shoulders of the openings. The cap 1305 comprises two openings in which the front portion of the first and second sleeves 1303, 1304 are inserted together with the first and second probes 1301 and 1302. A draining flow is depicted via arrows 1309 whereas the air inlet flow is depicted with arrows 1310. Therefore, FIG. 13 depicts a system 1300 with a draining and venting functionality at low costs and with a solution that can be permanently fixed at the container and which is acceptable for recycling. Venting can be carried out simultaneously to the draining and the container with the closure inserts can be embodied spring free and therefore metal free. In addition, fast and reliable full closure mechanism is presented which can be embodied metal free. FIG. 13 also shows that the sleeves each comprise a blocking element 1311, 1312 which are configured to engage with a respective part of the cap such that upon insertion of the coupling device into/onto the cap, the first and second sleeves are pressed backwards to release or uncover the respective extraction aperture of the probe. This has been described before in more detail. Said blocking element 1311, 1312 may be a protrusion or circumferential collar or the like.
(62) In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the invention a combination 1400 comprising a probe 1401 (of which only a front end is depicted), a circumferential wall 1402 of the cap, and closure insert 1403 is presented. Although a specific embodiment of a closure insert, a coupling section of a probe and a section of a circumferential wall comprising a shoulder is shown in FIG. 14 the present invention shall not be de-limited to this specific shape, contour and engagement mechanism. Upon the movement of the probe 1401 along the longitudinal axis 1404 the closure insert 1403 can be pushed out of its engagement. The circumferential edge 1407 abuts at the coupling surface 1406 of the circumferential wall of the cap. After the draining and/or venting and/or washing is completed, the probe 1401 can be pulled back into the respective opening of the cap such that an engagement between the probe 1401 and the closure insert 1403 at the form closure sections 1408, 1409 is de-coupled/disengaged. Subsequently, the closure insert 1403 is again engaged with the inner surface of the circumferential wall 1402 by means of the shoulder. Deviations from the engaging parts which provide for the fluid tight closure between the closure insert and the opening in the circumferential wall on the one hand and the engagement between the closure insert and the probe on the other hand are possible. FIG. 14 depicts only one specific example thereof.
(63) FIGS. 15 and 16 show a detailed view of an exemplary embodiment of an closure insert 1500 wherein a cross sectional view 1600 is depicted in FIG. 16. A circumferential recess 1501 is shown at the bottom of the closure insert which comprises a partial circumferential wall 1503 having outwardly and inwardly extending protrusions 1504. In addition, recess 1502 separates adjacently positioned sidewalls 1503. In the corresponding cross sectional view depicted in FIG. 16 it can be seen that an inner surface of the closure insert has an angled surface 1603 which extends circumferentially. Moreover, a vertical surface also extends circumferentially and follows the main shape of the closure insert which is shaped circularly. Protrusion 1604 is also comprised as well as outer surface 1602 which extends vertically. Also recess 1601 is shown and bottom 1605.
(64) FIG. 17 shows a coupling front section 1701 of probe 1700 being partially shown in FIG. 17. The coupling front section comprises a vertically extending surface 1702 below which an angled surface or collar 1703 is provided. Both surfaces 1702, 1703 extend around the complete circumference of the closure insert. Also recess or depending 1704 is shown. FIG. 18 shows a cross section through the coupling front section of the probe of FIG. 17. Cross section 1800 shows the top surface 1801 and a vertically extending surface/collar 1802. Moreover, the sloped surface/collar 1803 is depicted below the vertical collar 1802. The recess 1804 is shown for allowing an inwardly directed movement of the sidewalls of the closure insert.
(65) FIG. 19 depicts a docking station 2100. Such a docking station may be part of a crop protection spray system as described herein. Two openings 2103, 2104 for receiving the first and second probes of the coupling device are provided. Moreover, locking means 2101, 2102 similar to the locking means that have been described before are provided. Moreover, a rinsate pipe 2105 is comprised by the docking station 2100. The rinsate pipe is connected to the openings 2104 and 2103 via respective channels. After an intensive use of the coupling device, i.e. at a crop protection spray system, the cleaning procedure may be carried out by means of rinsing the coupling device with the docking station 2100. Therefore, the docking station fits the dimensions of the coupling device and is thus configured to receive the coupling device. This may enhance and increase the lifetime of the used coupling device and probes thereof.
(66) According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention a system for delivering a liquid from a container is provided. FIGS. 20 to 22 show different elements and aspects of such a system. In particular, FIG. 20 shows such a system 2300 which comprises a system 2301 for draining and venting a container as described herein. Moreover, connection hose 2302 is provided which is coupled to a dosing device 2303. A second container 2304 can be filled with the liquid via the cap of the present invention through the hose 2302 and the dosing device 2303 and via the adapted cover or cap 2305 of the second container 2304. A sucking mechanism of the dosing device 2303 may be used to precisely dose the volume of liquids into the second container 2304. Of course, the use and application of the system 2300 does not depend on the volume of the container of the system 2301.
(67) FIG. 21 shows that the cover 2305 has been supplemented by an interface 2400 that is fixed at the cover 2305. The probe of the dosing device 2303 is depicted with 2401 in FIG. 21 as it extends through the cover 2305 and through the interface 2400. In analogy to the closure inserts that have been described before 2402 depicts such a closure insert which can be engaged with the coupling front section 2502 of the dosing device 2303. Similar to the coupling device that has been described before, a spring 2501 of the dosing device 2303 and also a sleeve 2500 is used for the purpose of closing an aperture of the probe of the dosing device 2303. This aperture is not shown in FIG. 22.
(68) This small volume delivery system 2300 is an option for small farmers to use the connection system disclosed herein and facilitates the dosing of crop protection products. At very small sprayers or knapsack sprayers (carried on the shoulders) there is neither a loop system which circulates the water with crop protection product nor a suction pump. Therefore the cap and the coupling device may not be applicable at such simple sprayers. By connecting the suction probe shown in FIG. 22 with the small bottle shown in FIG. 20 and then again connecting the outlet of the probe via an interface 2400 shown in FIG. 21, to the sprayer a closed transfer can be realized. Therefore even small farmers can use the system 2301 for draining and venting a container as disclosed herein and they can reduce user contamination and environmental contamination in combination with accurate and quick dosing.
(69) According to another exemplary embodiment a specific thread of a container 2600 is shown in FIG. 23. Thread 2602 is positioned at the inlet opening 2601 of the container. A corresponding internal thread can be positioned at the springless cap and the thread 2602 of the container is embodied as external thread.
(70) The following values for the depicted parameters d1, d2, d, dh3, h8, h9 and h10 can be used to describe the thread of FIG. 23. The neck diameter, d1, is 65.8 mm. A tolerance may be +/0.3 mm. The thread core diameter d2 is 59.7 mm. A tolerance may be +/0.3 mm. The nominal diameter thread, d, is 63.4 mm. A tolerance may be +0.2 mm and 0.4 mm. The tamper evident ring diameter, dh3, is 67.7 mm. A tolerance may be +0.2 mm and 0.4 mm. The height of the calibration ring h10 is 4 mm. A tolerance may be +/0.2 mm. The distance of the tamper evident ring from the sealing ring, h9, is 22.4 mm+/0.2 mm tolerance. Moreover, the distance of the grip handle ring from the sealing ring, h8, is 33 mm+0.5 mm. Also different selective combinations of the above defined parameters are possible and shall be understood to be disclosed herewith.
(71) According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention FIG. 24 shows a crop protection spray system 2700 comprising a sprayer device 2701 and a system for draining and venting a container as has been described before and will be disclosed hereinafter. Moreover, an agricultural machine, embodied as a tractor 2702 is presented. The sprayer device 2701 and the system for draining and venting a container are attached to the tractor. Therefore, a safe, reliable and high throughput distribution of the liquid is provided. Moreover, an easy and convenient coupling is provided for the user and the risk of contamination or spillage is significantly reduced by this embodiment of the present invention. Moreover, crop protection spray system 2700 may comprise a docking station 2100 as exemplarily disclosed in the context of FIG. 19. In addition or alternatively, the crop protection spray system 2700 may comprise a flow meter such that draining a container with the system of the present invention can be controlled very precisely by the user. This is another advantage over manually pouring a container.
(72) FIG. 25 shows a flow diagram of a method of transporting a liquid from a container to a destination outside of the container. In this method the container has a container body which comprises the liquid and the container is provided in step S1. Therein the container body comprises at least one inlet opening and a springless cap attached to the inlet opening closing the inlet opening, wherein the cap comprises a first opening, a second opening, a first closure insert and a second closure insert. Moreover, the first opening is surrounded by a first circumferential wall, and the first circumferential wall comprises a first shoulder, wherein the second opening is surrounded by a second circumferential wall and the second circumferential wall comprises a second shoulder. Further, the first closure insert releasably engages with the first shoulder such that the first opening is fluid tightly closed and the second closure insert releasably engages with the second shoulder such that the second opening is fluid tightly closed. It should be noted that any other container embodiment, system embodiment and crop protection spray system, as described herein, can be used in this method in addition or as an alternative.
(73) The method further comprises the steps of coupling the container via the springless cap with a coupling device thereby inserting a first probe of the coupling device into the first opening of the cap and inserting a second probe of the coupling device into the second opening of the cap. This is shown in FIG. 25 with S2. Further, the step of disengaging the first closure insert and the first shoulder by axially pushing the first closure insert by the first probe and/or disengaging the second closure insert and the second shoulder by axially pushing the second closure insert by the second probe is shown with S3. The liquid is transported from the container body through at least one of the first opening and the second opening to the destination outside of the container in step S4.
(74) In a further exemplary embodiment of the method the container body is vented through the other of the first opening and the second opening during the step of transporting the liquid. As further specified embodiments, the method may comprise other method steps as has been described before.
(75) Moreover, an exemplary method of using the system for draining and venting a container is described in more detail hereinafter. In this example the coupling device is pushed onto the springless cap of the container such that the first probe is connected with the first opening of the cap and the second probe is connected with the second opening of the cap. A rotational movement is carried out subsequently for locking the cap and the coupling device and to fix them in the coupled configuration, for example, a locking collar is provided on the coupling device. As the first probe is pushed onto the first closure insert of the cap it is thereby disengaged from the first shoulder and the first closure insert is engaged with the coupling front section of the probe. As the second probe is pushed onto the second closure insert it is thereby disengaged from the second shoulder and the second closure insert is engaged with the coupling front section of the second probe. Additionally, a low pressure may be applied within a first duct which is connected to the first probe.
(76) Moreover, the step of opening an air inlet valve, which is connected to the second duct and/or the second probe, is carried out thereby allowing an air flow from outside of the container into the container. Further, at least a part of the liquid is sucked through extraction aperture of the first probe and through the first duct out of the container. After the desired amount of the desired liquid has been transferred the both probes are pulled backwards to disengage the first closure insert and the second closure insert from the respective probe and to re-press both closure inserts in a fluid tight engagement with the corresponding opening of the springless cap. Finally the coupling device is de-coupled from the cap and removed there from thereby providing an automatic fluid tight closing mechanism. In other words, when the coupling device is de-coupled from the cap the first and second openings of the springless cap are automatically re-sealed by engaging the two closure inserts in a fluid tight manner with the respective protrusions within the openings.
