Closure assembly for squeeze bottle comprising a thermoplastic valve

Abstract

A closure assembly includes a valve for containing a substance in a squeeze bottle, a multi-layer material for providing a valve for such a closure assembly, a method for providing such a multi-layer material and a method for providing such a closure assembly. The closure assembly includes a closure cap with a cap part and a body part, a valve arranged in the body part of the closure cap, and an induction element. The induction element is arranged in the closure cap body part for induction sealing a loop shaped peripheral section of the valve to a loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part.

Claims

1. A closure assembly for a squeeze bottle containing a substance, the squeeze bottle having a neck part with a dispensing opening, wherein the closure assembly is configured to be placed on the neck part of the squeeze bottle, the closure assembly comprising: a closure cap, the closure cap having a cap part and a body part, wherein the body part is provided with a recess for receiving the neck part of the squeeze bottle, and wherein the body part is provided with a top wall, that forms the bottom of the recess, wherein the top wall has an outside surface and an inside surface, and has a dispensing opening for dispensing contents from the squeeze bottle on an outside of the closure cap body part, and wherein the top wall is on the inside surface provided with a loop shaped attachment surface extending around the dispensing opening, a valve, the valve arranged in said recess of the closure cap body part adjacent to the top wall such that the valve closes the dispensing opening, wherein the valve is a part of a multi-layer material, the multi-layer material comprising: a layer of flexible foil material forming the valve, wherein the valve is a flat flexible foil material, and wherein the valve has a loop shaped peripheral section that overlaps the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part, and wherein the valve has a central section located in the dispensing opening of the closure cap body part, wherein the central section is provided with at least one through slit, thus forming a resilient, flat, self-closing valve of thermoplastic material, and a layer of metallic foil forming a first induction element, wherein the first induction element is arranged in said recess of the closure cap body part for induction sealing the loop shaped peripheral section of the valve to the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part, wherein the metallic foil layer has at least a loop shaped peripheral section that overlaps with the loop shaped peripheral section of the valve and the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part.

2. The closure assembly according to claim 1, the closure assembly further comprising: a first separator element, the first separator element arranged in said recess of the closure cap body part, adjacent the first induction element to enable separating the first induction element from an object located on an opposite side of the separator element.

3. The closure assembly according to claim 2, further comprising: a second separator element, and wherein the first and second separator elements are provided on opposite sides of the first induction element.

4. The closure assembly according to claim 2, the closure assembly further comprising: a seal, the seal comprising at least a sealing layer for sealing the dispensing opening of the squeeze bottle, wherein the seal is arranged in the recess of the closure cap body part such that the first separator element is located between the valve and the seal, and wherein the seal has a loop shaped peripheral section that overlaps the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part.

5. The closure assembly according to claim 2, the closure assembly further comprising: a seal, the seal comprising at least a sealing layer for sealing the dispensing opening of the squeeze bottle, wherein the seal is arranged in the recess of the closure cap body part such that the first separator element is located between the valve and the seal, and wherein the seal has a loop shaped peripheral section that overlaps the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part, and wherein the first induction element is ring shaped having a central opening such that the induction element does not cover the central section of the valve, and located adjacent the valve for induction sealing the valve to the closure cap body part, and wherein the assembly further comprises a second induction element, wherein the second induction element is arranged in the closure cap body part adjacent the seal for induction sealing the seal to the squeeze bottle.

6. The closure assembly according to claim 5, wherein the second induction element is a disc shaped metallic foil located between the first separator and the seal, and wherein the first separator is provided between the first and second induction elements.

7. The closure assembly according to claim 2, wherein the first and/or second separator element are/is an inlay, wherein the inlay is made of a compressible, non-thermoplastic material.

8. The closure assembly according to claim 3, wherein the first induction element covers the central section and the peripheral section of the valve, and the separator element preferably is disc shaped.

9. The closure assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first induction element is ring shaped and has a central opening such that the first induction element does not cover the central section of the valve.

10. The closure assembly according to claim 1, wherein the dispensing opening in the cap has a diameter between 12 mm and 20 mm.

11. The closure assembly according to claim 1, wherein the valve has a thickness in the range of 0.01 mm-1 mm, and is made of a polyolefin material, or is made of an elastomer material, or is made of a natural rubber material that on one side is provided with a sealing layer to enable induction sealing the natural rubber to the cap of the closure assembly.

12. The closure assembly according to claim 1, wherein the multi-layer material further comprises a first separation layer, wherein the first separation layer is arranged adjacent the metallic foil layer such that the metallic foil layer is located between the flexible foil layer and the first separation layer.

13. The closure assembly according to claim 12, wherein the multi-layer material further comprises a sealing layer of a seal.

14. The closure assembly according to claim 12, wherein the multi-layer material further comprises a second separation layer, wherein the first induction element is located in between the first and the second separation layers, and the first induction element and the separation layers are combined in a laminate that separates the valve layer from a seal.

15. A squeeze bottle assembly comprising the squeeze bottle and the closure assembly according to claim 1, wherein the squeeze bottle is provided with a neck part with a dispensing opening, and wherein the closure assembly and the squeeze bottle are each provided with an attachment device, wherein the attachment device is configured for attaching the closure cap body part on the neck part of the squeeze bottle, such that at least the valve and the first induction element are clamped in between the squeeze bottle and the cap.

16. The squeeze bottle assembly according to claim 15, wherein the squeeze bottle is provided with a flange, the flange defining the dispensing opening, wherein the flange matches the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part, such that when the cap is attached to the squeeze bottle, the peripheral section of the valve, and the peripheral section of the seal, are clamped between the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part and the loop shaped flange of the squeeze bottle.

17. A method for providing the closure assembly according to claim 1, the method comprising the steps: providing the closure cap comprising the cap part and the body part; providing the valve, positioning the valve in the body part of the closure cap; providing the first induction element; and positioning the first induction element in the body part of the closure cap, wherein the valve and the first induction element are provided in the form of the multi-layer material or as a laminate and are positioned in the closure cap body part in a single step.

18. A method for providing the squeeze bottle with the closure assembly comprising the steps: providing a dispenser squeeze bottle having a neck with a dispensing opening; providing the closure assembly according to claim 1; positioning the closure cap body part of the closure assembly, on the neck of the squeeze bottle such that at least the valve and the first induction element are clamped between an upper end of the squeeze bottle neck and the top wall of the closure cap body part; and induction sealing at least the valve to the closure cap body part.

19. The closure assembly according to claim 1, wherein the dispensing opening in the cap is at opposite ends of the slit at least 2 mm wider such that the diameter of the opening is equal to the length of the slit plus 4 mm or more.

20. A closure assembly for a squeeze bottle containing a substance, the squeeze bottle having a neck part with a dispensing opening, wherein the closure assembly is configured to be placed on the neck part of the squeeze bottle, the closure assembly comprising: a closure cap, the closure cap having a cap part and a body part, wherein the body part is provided with a recess for receiving the neck part of the squeeze bottle, and wherein the body part is provided with a top wall, that forms the bottom of the recess, wherein the top wall has an outside surface and an inside surface, and has a dispensing opening for dispensing contents from the squeeze bottle on an outside of the closure cap body part, and wherein the top wall is on the inside surface provided with a loop shaped attachment surface extending around the dispensing opening; a valve, the valve arranged in said recess of the closure cap body part adjacent to the top wall such that the valve closes the dispensing opening, wherein the valve is a flat flexible foil material, and wherein the valve has a loop shaped peripheral section that overlaps the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part, and wherein the valve has a central section located in the dispensing opening of the closure cap body part, wherein the central section is provided with at least one through slit, thus forming a resilient, flat, self-closing valve; a first induction element, the first induction element arranged in said recess of the closure cap body part for induction sealing the loop shaped peripheral section of the valve to the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part, wherein the first induction element has at least a loop shaped peripheral section that overlaps with the loop shaped peripheral section of the valve and the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part; a first separator element, the first separator element arranged in said recess of the closure cap body part adjacent the first induction element to enable separating the first induction element from an object located on an opposite side of the first separator element; and a second separator element, wherein the first and second separator elements are provided on opposite sides of the first induction element.

21. A closure assembly for a squeeze bottle containing a substance, the squeeze bottle having a neck part with a dispensing opening, wherein the closure assembly is configured to be placed on the neck part of the squeeze bottle, the closure assembly comprising: a closure cap, the closure cap having a cap part and a body part, wherein the body part is provided with a recess for receiving the neck part of the squeeze bottle, and wherein the body part is provided with a top wall, that forms the bottom of the recess, wherein the top wall has an outside surface and an inside surface, and has a dispensing opening for dispensing contents from the squeeze bottle on an outside of the closure cap body part, and wherein the top wall is on the inside surface provided with a loop shaped attachment surface extending around the dispensing opening; a valve, the valve arranged in said recess of the closure cap body part adjacent to the top wall such that the valve closes the dispensing opening, wherein the valve is a flat flexible foil material, and wherein the valve has a loop shaped peripheral section that overlaps the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part, and wherein the valve has a central section located in the dispensing opening of the closure cap body part, wherein the central section is provided with at least one through slit, thus forming a resilient, flat, self-closing valve; a first induction element, wherein the first induction element is arranged in said recess of the closure cap body part for induction sealing the loop shaped peripheral section of the valve to the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part, wherein the first induction element has at least a loop shaped peripheral section that overlaps with the loop shaped peripheral section of the valve and the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part; a first separator element, the first separator element arranged in said recess of the closure cap body part adjacent the first induction element to enable separating the first induction element from an object located on an opposite side of the first separator element; and a seal, the seal comprising at least a sealing layer for sealing the dispensing opening of the squeeze bottle, wherein the seal is arranged in the recess of the closure cap body part such that the first separator element is located between valve and the seal, and wherein the seal has a loop shaped peripheral section that overlaps the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part.

22. A closure assembly for a squeeze bottle containing a substance, the squeeze bottle having a neck part with a dispensing opening, wherein the closure assembly is configured to be placed on the neck part of the squeeze bottle, the closure assembly comprising: a closure cap, the closure cap having a cap part and a body part, wherein the body part is provided with a recess for receiving the neck part of the squeeze bottle, and wherein the body part is provided with a top wall, that forms the bottom of the recess, wherein the top wall has an outside surface and an inside surface, and has a dispensing opening for dispensing contents from the squeeze bottle on an outside of the closure cap body part, and wherein the top wall is on the inside surface provided with a loop shaped attachment surface extending around the dispensing opening; a valve, the valve arranged in said recess of the closure cap body part adjacent to the top wall such that the valve closes the dispensing opening, wherein the valve is a flat flexible foil material, and wherein the valve has a loop shaped peripheral section that overlaps the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part, and wherein the valve has a central section located in the dispensing opening of the closure cap body part, wherein the central section is provided with at least one through slit, thus forming a resilient, flat, self-closing valve; a first induction element, wherein the first induction element is arranged in said recess of the closure cap body part for induction sealing the loop shaped peripheral section of the valve to the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part, wherein the first induction element has at least a loop shaped peripheral section that overlaps with the loop shaped peripheral section of the valve and the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part; a first separator element, the first separator element arranged in said recess of the closure cap body part, adjacent the first induction element to enable separating the first induction element from an object located on an opposite side of the first separator element; and a seal, the seal comprising at least a sealing layer for sealing the dispensing opening of the squeeze bottle, wherein the seal is arranged in the recess of the closure cap body part such that the first separator element is located between valve and the seal, and wherein the seal has a loop shaped peripheral section that overlaps the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part, and wherein the first induction element is ring shaped having a central opening such that the induction element does not cover the central section of the valve, and located adjacent the valve for induction sealing the valve to the closure cap body part, and wherein the assembly further comprises a second induction element, wherein the second induction element is arranged in the closure cap body part adjacent the seal for induction sealing the seal to the squeeze bottle.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) In the drawings:

(2) FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a first closure assembly according to the invention;

(3) FIG. 2 shows the inside of the closure assembly of FIG. 1;

(4) FIG. 2b shows the closure assembly of FIG. 2 in cross section;

(5) FIG. 3 shows the closure assembly of FIG. 2 provided with a seal;

(6) FIG. 4a shows in cross section a second closure assembly according to the invention comprising a closure cap, a valve and a first induction element;

(7) FIG. 4b shows the multi-layer material of the closure assembly of FIG. 4a comprising the valve and the induction element for attachment to the closure cap;

(8) FIG. 5a shows in cross section a third closure assembly according to the invention comprising a closure cap, a valve, a first separator element, and a first induction element with an isolation layer;

(9) FIG. 5b shows the multi-layer material of the closure assembly of FIG. 5a split into the valve for attachment to the closure cap and a laminate comprising the first separator element, first induction element and isolation layer;

(10) FIG. 6a shows in cross section a fourth closure assembly according to the invention comprising a closure cap, a valve, a first induction element and a first separator element;

(11) FIG. 6b shows the multi-layer material of the closure assembly of FIG. 6a split into a laminate comprising the valve and the first induction element for attachment to the closure cap and the first separator element;

(12) FIG. 7a shows in cross section a fifth closure assembly according to the invention comprising a closure cap, a valve, a first separator element, a first induction element with an isolation layer, and a second separator element;

(13) FIG. 7b shows the multi-layer material of the closure assembly of FIG. 7a split into the valve for attachment to the closure cap and a laminate comprising the first separator element, first induction element, isolation layer, and the second separator element;

(14) FIG. 8a shows in cross section a sixth closure assembly according to the invention comprising a closure cap, a valve, a first induction element, a first separator element, and a seal for attachment to a squeeze bottle;

(15) FIG. 8b shows the multi-layer material of the closure assembly of FIG. 8a split into a laminate comprising the valve and the first induction element for attachment to the closure cap and a laminate comprising the first separator element and the seal for attachment to a squeeze bottle;

(16) FIG. 9a shows in cross section a seventh closure assembly according to the invention comprising a closure cap, a valve, a first separator, and first induction element, and a seal for attachment to a squeeze bottle;

(17) FIG. 9b shows the multi-layer material of the closure assembly of FIG. 9a split into a valve element for attachment to the closure cap, and a laminate comprising the first separator element, the first induction element and the seal element for attachment to a squeeze bottle;

(18) FIG. 10a shows in cross section an eighth closure assembly according to the invention comprising a closure cap, a valve, a first induction element, a first separator element, a second induction element and a seal;

(19) FIG. 10b shows the multi-layer material of the closure assembly of FIG. 10a split into a laminate comprising the valve and the first induction element for attachment to the closure cap, and a laminate comprising the separator element, the second induction element and the seal element for attachment to a squeeze bottle;

(20) FIG. 11a shows in cross section a ninth closure assembly according to the invention comprising a closure cap, a valve, a first separator element, a first induction element, a second separator element and a seal;

(21) FIG. 11b shows the multi-layer material of the closure assembly of FIG. 11a split into a valve for attachment to the closure cap, a laminate comprising the first separator element, the first induction element and the second separator element, and a seal for attachment to a squeeze bottle;

(22) FIG. 12a shows in cross section a tenth closing assembly according to the invention and a neck of a squeeze bottle;

(23) FIG. 12b shows the closing assembly of FIG. 12a placed on the squeeze bottle of which the neck with a dispensing opening is shown;

(24) FIG. 12c shows the closing assembly of FIG. 12b after induction sealing the valve to the closure cap and the seal to the dispensing opening of the squeeze bottle, with the closure cap removed from the squeeze bottle, and;

(25) FIG. 12d shows the closing assembly of FIG. 12c replaced on the squeeze bottle with the laminate comprising the seal removed from the squeeze bottle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

(26) FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a first closure assembly 1 for a squeeze bottle 2 containing a substance, according to the invention. The closure assembly comprises a cap 3, having a closure cap body part 3a and a closure cap cap part 3b, a valve 4 and an induction element. In the embodiment shown the closure cap cap part 3b is hingeably connected to the closure cap body part 3a. FIG. 2 shows the inside of the closure assembly 1 shown in FIG. 1, in which the induction element 5 is visible.

(27) FIG. 1 also shows part of a squeeze bottle 2 to which the closure assembly can be attached. The squeeze bottle 2 has a neck part 2a with a dispensing opening, which opening in the shown embodiment is provided with a seal 9 that seals off the dispensing opening of the neck part 2a.

(28) In the particular embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the closure assembly 1 is not attached to the squeeze bottle 2. Furthermore, in FIGS. 1 and 2 the valve 4 is induction sealed to the closure cap body part 3a and the seal 9 is induction sealed to the squeeze bottle 2.

(29) It is noted that the invention relates to providing a valve that is to be attached to a cap, more in particular the closure cap body part, by way of induction sealing, preferably combined with a seal to be attached to the squeeze bottle by way of induction sealing. As such, the invention covers a closure assembly, comprising at least the closure cap, valve and induction element for heat sealing the valve to the closure cap, as well as a method for induction sealing the valve to the closure cap.

(30) The closure assembly according to the invention shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 comprises the closure cap 3, which closure cap 3 has a closure cap body part 3a with a top wall 7, in which top wall 7 a dispensing opening 8 is provided for dispensing contents from the squeeze bottle 2 on an outside of the closure cap body part 3a.

(31) The top wall 7 has an inside surface that forms a bottom of a recess 10 in the body part 3a of the closure cap for receiving the neck part 2a of the squeeze bottle 2, which is shown in FIGS. 2 and 2b. In the embodiment shown, the recess 10 is formed by a circular wall 11 extending from the inside surface of the top wall 7. In the embodiment shown the body 3a of the closure cap 3 furthermore comprises an outer circular wall 12, and ribs extending between the first and second circular wall for providing rigidity to the closure cap body part. It is observed that many different configurations of the cap, more in particular the cap body, are possible within the scope of the invention.

(32) The top wall 7 is on its inside surface provided with a loop shaped attachment surface extending around the dispensing opening 8. In the embodiment shown, this attachment surface is covered by the valve 4 that is located on, and is attached to, the surface.

(33) The valve 4 is arranged in the recess 10 of the closure cap body part 3a and is arranged adjacent the top wall 7 such that it closes the dispensing opening 8 provided in the top wall. The valve 4 is made of a substantially flat flexible foil material, and has a loop shaped peripheral section 4a that overlaps the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part 3a. The valve 4 has a central section 4b located in the dispensing opening 8 of the closure cap 3, which central section 4b is provided with at least one through slit 13, thus forming a resilient, self-closing valve. In the embodiment shown, the valve is provided with two perpendicular, intersecting through slits forming a cross. It is noted that other configurations are also possible.

(34) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-3, the recess 10 in the body part 3a of the closure cap is provided with screw thread, which cooperates with screw thread provided on the neck part 2a of the squeeze bottle 2 to mount the closure assembly on the squeeze bottle. In the embodiment shown, the valve is dimensioned such that, when seen in bottom view, i.e. when looking into the recess, it extends beyond the opening defined by the internal screw thread of the body part. Because the valve is wider than the opening defined by the internal screw thread, it can only be inserted and removed from the recess by bending the sides of the valve. Thus, when the valve has been positioned adjacent the top wall and is not yet attached to the top wall by way of induction sealing, the internal screw thread keeps the valve from falling from the recess. Furthermore, the valve is configured such that it is correctly positioned relative to the dispensing opening when its outer contour contacts the circumferential wall defining the recess. The valve is thus correctly positioned relative to the dispensing opening of the body part by the recess circumferential wall.

(35) In an alternative embodiment, the valve, or other layers of material combined with the valve into a laminate or multi-layer material, is provided with radially extending flexible fingers, which engage the screw thread provided inside the recess and thus secure the valve in the recess. Also, in addition to or instead of screw thread, retaining devices for example protrusions such as ribs or click fingers can be provided in the recess near the top wall to hook behind the valve when it is placed inside the recess, to prevent the valve from falling from its position in the recess prior to being induction sealed to the cap.

(36) In the embodiment shown the valve is circular shaped. It is noted that other shapes are possible, such as oval shaped, rectangular, etc. For example when the cap is provided with an oval shaped dispensing opening, the valve can be rectangular or oval shaped.

(37) In an advantageous embodiment, such as the one shown, the outer contour of the valve matches the inner contour of the recess, for example are both circular or both oval shaped, such that, when the valve is placed in the recess, the valve is positioned by the walls of the recess in a correct position, more in particular with the one or more cross slits correctly positioned in the dispensing opening.

(38) The first induction element 5, shown in FIG. 2, is arranged in the closure cap 3 for induction sealing the valve 4 to the closure cap 3, more in particular for induction sealing the loop shaped peripheral section 4a of the valve to the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part 3a. The induction element 5 shown is a metallic foil with a loop shaped peripheral section 5a that overlaps with the loop shaped peripheral section 4a of the valve and the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part 3a.

(39) The induction element shown is thus provided with a central opening, such that the central section of the valve and the dispensing opening of the closure cap body part are not covered by the induction element. Thus, during the induction sealing process the induction element generates heat only in the section of the valve to be sealed to the closure cap body part. The central section of the valve is not, or not substantially heated which reduces the chance of damaging the valve, more in particular the through slits of the valve, during the induction process. Damage to the valve, for example sealing of part of the through slit, may hamper use of the valve for dispensing content from the squeeze bottle.

(40) FIG. 3 shows the closure assembly 1 of FIGS. 1 and 2 prior to the induction sealing process, with the seal 9 still in the closure cap body part 3a. When the closure assembly comprises a seal, it is furthermore provided with at least a first separator element for preventing the seal to get attached to the valve during the induction process. Such a separator element is provided between the seal and the valve, and is thus not visible in FIG. 3. Depending on the configuration of the induction element, the separator can be provided between the valve and the induction element, between the seal and the induction element, or separator elements can be provided on opposite sides of the induction element, as will be explained in more detail below.

(41) FIGS. 4-12 show embodiments of different configurations of a closure assembly according to the invention. Parts similar to the parts of the closure assembly shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 have been provided with similar reference signs.

(42) It is noted that the figures, in particular the closure cap, have been simplified for explanatory reasons. In practice for example, the recess can be provided with coupling means, such as the screw thread shown in FIGS. 2 and 2b, for engaging coupling means of the neck part of a squeeze bottle. Furthermore, of the closure cap only the closure cap body part is depicted and not the closure cap cap part, for closing the dispensing opening, which is shown in FIGS. 1-3. The cap part preferably is configured such that, when placed on the closure cap body part, part of it lies adjacent the valve to support the valve in its flat position, i.e. the position depicted in the figures.

(43) FIG. 4a shows in cross section a second closure assembly 101 according to the invention comprising a cap 103, a valve 104 and a first induction element 105.

(44) The valve 104 has a central section 104b located in the dispensing opening 108 of top wall 107 of the closure cap 103, which central section 104b is provided with a through slit 113, thus forming a resilient, self-closing valve. The first induction element 105 is a metallic foil with a central opening, similar to the one shown in FIGS. 1-3, such that the peripheral section 104a of the valve is covered by the induction element and the central section of the valve, comprising the at least on through slit 113, is not. This prevents the induction element from substantially heating the central section of the valve, and thus prevents possible damage to the through slits, for example degradation of the flexibility properties of the central area of the valve. Furthermore, due to the opening, the metallic foil does not have to be removed, requiring an extra production step, after the induction sealing process to enable use of the valve.

(45) The valve 104 and the induction element 105 form a multi-layer material, which multi-layer material is shown in FIG. 4b without the closure cap. It is noted that in an alternative embodiment, the valve and the metallic induction element can be separate inlays that are positioned one after the other or in a single step in the closure cap.

(46) In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4a-b, the metallic foil and the thermoplastic foil material are fixed to each other such that they form a laminate. To form a laminate, different layers are permanently fixed to each other, for example using an adhesive, such that the layers stay connected during and after the induction sealing, and stay connected during use of the closure assembly.

(47) In this configuration, the ring shaped aluminum foil induction element 105 stays attached to the valve 104 during and after the induction sealing. This facilitates manipulating the valve and first induction element, in particular facilitates correctly positioning of the two in the closure cap prior to the induction sealing. Furthermore, since the metal foil is attached to the valve, which in turn is attached to the cap, the risk that the metal foil, or parts thereof enter a squeeze bottle onto which the cap is placed, is reduced.

(48) FIG. 5a shows in cross section a third closure assembly 201 according to the invention comprising a cap 203, a valve 204, a first separator element 214, and a first induction element 205 with an isolation element 216.

(49) In the embodiment shown, the first induction element 205 is a disc shaped metallic foil having a first diameter. The disc shaped isolation element 216 has a second diameter which is smaller than the first diameter of the induction element, and is positioned between the metallic foil of the induction element 205 and the thermoplastic foil material of the valve 204, such that the isolation element 216 covers the at least one through slit provided in the thermoplastic foil material and leaves the loop shaped peripheral section of the valve uncovered. Thus, the central area of the valve is substantially protected from the heat generated by the induction element during the induction process. The chance of possible damage to the through slits, for example degradation of the flexibility properties of the central area of the valve due to warming of the valve material, is reduced.

(50) The closure assembly 201 is furthermore provided with the first separator element 214 made of a material that not adheres to the valve during the induction process. The separator element 214 is provided with the valve 204 on one side and the first induction element 205 and isolation element 216 on its opposite side, to prevent the isolation element and the induction element from adhering to the valve during the induction process. Thus, after the valve has been induction sealed to the closure cap body part of the closure cap, the first separator element, the first induction element and the isolation element can be removed from the recess in the closure cap body part (after taking the cap of the squeeze bottle) to allow dispensing of contents from the dispensing opening of the squeeze bottle through the through slit of the valve. Such an embodiment can for example be used when a seal has to be removed from the squeeze bottle prior to use as well. Both elements can then be removed at the same time.

(51) In a preferred embodiment according to the invention, the separator element is provided with lips along its perimeter which may engage screw thread or similar extensions provided in the closure cap body part to position the separator in the recess and preventing it, and thus the other elements, from falling out of the recess prior to positioning the cap, more in particular the closure cap body part, on the squeeze bottle. Lips may also be provided to facilitate engaging by hand the separator located in the closure cap body part, for example for removing the separator from the cap after the induction process. These lips can be combined with other elements also, for example with a seal for sealing the squeeze bottle.

(52) FIG. 5b shows the layer material of the closure assembly of FIG. 5a split into the valve 204 for attachment to the cap 203 and a laminate comprising the first separator element 214, first induction element 205 and isolation element 216. By providing the first separator element, the first induction element, and the isolation element as a laminate, the three elements can be handled as a single object prior to and after the induction process.

(53) In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the first separator 214 is a disc shaped element that covers the metal foil at one side and the valve at its opposite side, and thus provides a barrier between the first induction element and the valve. It is noted that in such an embodiment of a closure assembly, the first separator should be removed from its position after the valve has been induction sealed to the cap, more in particular the closure cap body part, and prior to the use of the closure assembly for dispensing substance form the squeeze bottle, to allow dispensing contents of the squeeze bottle via the valve.

(54) In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the isolation element is disc shaped layer of isolating material. In an alternative embodiment, the isolation element is provided in the form of a layer isolating material that covers the central section and at least part of the peripheral section of the induction element, and are openings provided in the peripheral part of the isolation layer, such that the heat provided in the peripheral section by the induction element during the induction process is transferred via said openings to the valve for induction sealing the valve to the cap.

(55) In a further alternative embodiment, the layer of isolation material covers the central section and at least part of the peripheral section of the induction element, and is a compressible material such that when the closure assembly is mounted on a squeeze bottle the part of the isolation layer between squeeze bottle and valve is compressed sufficiently to pass heat generated by the induction element to the valve for sealing it to the cap, while the central section of the isolation layer is not compressed and thus maintains its isolation properties such that the central section of the valve, in particular the slits provided therein, are not damaged by the heat of the induction element.

(56) FIG. 6a-b and FIG. 7a-b, depict the closure assemblies shown in FIG. 4a-b and FIG. 5a-b respectively, which are furthermore provided with a first separator 314 and second separator 415 respectively, to prevent the induction element form adhering to and/or damaging the neck part of the squeeze bottle during the induction process.

(57) In the embodiment 301 shown in FIG. 6, the first separator 314 is a ring shaped element, that has a loop shaped peripheral section that overlaps with the loop shaped peripheral section of the first induction element 305 and a has central section provided with an opening such that the first separator does not cover the central section of the valve. Such a first separator can either be an element that is not attached to the valve and/or the first induction element, or be an element that is temporarily attached to the valve and/or the first induction element and thus is part of a multi-layer material, or even be an element that is permanently fixed to the valve and/or the first induction element and thus is part of a laminate.

(58) In an embodiment of a closure assembly according to the invention, the first separator is temporarily attached to the valve and/or the first induction element by way of an intermediate adhesive layer which melts at or near the induction sealing temperature, for example a layer of wax, to form a multi-layer material. During the induction sealing, the intermediate material disintegrates and/or is for example absorbed by the material the first separator is made off. The latter can be the case when the first separator is for example made of a paper or pulp material.

(59) Providing the multi-layer material allows for easy placement in a single step of the elements making up the multi-layer material, prior to the induction sealing of the valve.

(60) During the induction sealing, for example the connection between the first separator on the one hand and the first induction element and the valve on the other hand is weakened or even fully removed. Thus, after the induction sealing of the valve to the cap, a user can easily remove the first separator prior to using the closure assembly to dispense a substance form a squeeze bottle on which the closure assembly is placed.

(61) FIG. 7a shows in cross section a fifth closure assembly 401 according to the invention comprising a closure cap 403, a valve 404, a first separator element 414, a first induction element 405 with an isolation layer 416, and a second separator element 415;

(62) FIG. 7b shows the multi-layer material of the closure assembly of FIG. 7a split into the valve 404, for attachment to the closure cap 403, and a laminate comprising the first separator element 414, first induction element 405, isolation layer 416, and the second separator 415. Because the first separator, the induction element, the isolation element and the second separator are fixed to each other to form a laminated material, they are more easy to manipulate, for example to remove after the induction sealing of the valve and the seal. Alternatively, as with the other embodiments shown, instead of as a multi-layer material, the elements can be provided as separate inlays.

(63) FIGS. 8-11 show a closure assembly according to the invention comprising a seal for induction sealing the dispensing opening of a squeeze bottle on which the closure assembly is placed. In the embodiments shown, the valve and the seal will be induction sealed to the closure cap and the squeeze bottle respectively during the same production step, i.e. the same induction sealing process.

(64) FIG. 8a shows a closure assembly 501 according to the invention with a closure cap 503, a valve 504 and first induction element 505 according to the one shown in FIG. 4. The closure assembly furthermore is provided with a seal 509 and a first separator element 514 located between the first induction element and the seal.

(65) FIG. 8b shows the layer material of the closure assembly shown in FIG. 8a split into a laminate comprising the valve and the first induction element for attachment to the closure cap and a laminate comprising the first separator element and the seal for attachment to a squeeze bottle.

(66) FIG. 9a shows a closure assembly 601 wherein a separator element 614 is provided between a valve 604 and the induction element 605. FIG. 9b shows the multi-layer material of the closure assembly of FIG. 9a split into a valve element for attachment to the closure cap, the separator element, and the seal element for attachment to a squeeze bottle.

(67) In the embodiment shown the first induction element is ring shaped, such that it generates heat in the peripheral section of the valve only. The first induction element is arranged adjacent the seal, and is fixed to the seal, for sealing the dispensing opening of the squeeze bottle the closure cap is placed on.

(68) The first separator 614 is located between the valve 604 and first induction element 605. In addition, the separator is made of a resilient foam material. When the closure assembly is mounted on a squeeze bottle, the peripheral part of the separator element is compressed between the neck part of the squeeze bottle and the closure cap. The compressed section better guides heat from the induction element to the valve than the non-compressed central section of the separating element. Thus, during the induction process, the peripheral section of the valve is heated and thus sealed to the closure cap, while the central section of the valve is extra protected against the heat generated by the induction element.

(69) FIG. 10a shows in cross section an eighth closure assembly 701 according to the invention comprising a closure cap 703, a valve 704, a first induction element 705, a first separator element 714, a second induction element 717 and a seal 709. FIG. 10b shows the multi-layer material of the closure assembly of FIG. 10a split into a laminate comprising the valve 704 and the first induction element 705 for attachment to the closure cap 703, and a laminate comprising the separator element 714, the second induction element 717 and the seal element 719 for attachment to a squeeze bottle.

(70) In the closure assembly shown in FIG. 10 the first induction element is ring shaped, i.e. has a central opening, such that the metallic foil does not cover the central section of the valve. The first induction element is located adjacent the valve for induction sealing the valve to the closure cap, more in particular to the closure cap body part.

(71) The second induction element is arranged in the closure cap adjacent the seal for induction sealing the seal to the squeeze bottle. In the embodiment shown, the second induction element is a disc shaped metallic foil located between the first separator and the seal. The first separator is provided between the first and second indicator.

(72) FIG. 11a shows in cross section a ninth closure assembly 801 according to the invention comprising a closure cap 803, a valve 804, a first separator element 814, a first induction element 805, a second separator element 815 and a seal 809. FIG. 11b shows the multi-layer material of the closure assembly of FIG. 11a split into a valve for attachment to the closure cap, a laminate comprising the first separator element, the first induction element and the second separator element, and a seal for attachment to a squeeze bottle;

(73) The first and second separators are provided on opposite sides of the first induction element. In the embodiment shown, the first separator, the first induction element and the second separator are fixed to each other such that they form a laminated material. Thus, a central induction element is provided that can be used for induction sealing both the valve to the closure cap and the seal to the squeeze bottle. The central induction element is separated from both the valve and the seal by the first and a second separator respectively. After induction sealing of the valve to the closure cap and the seal to the neck part of the squeeze bottle, the induction element and the first and second separator can be removed from between the seal and the valve, for example by the end user when removing the seal prior to using the closure assembly for dispensing substance from the squeeze bottle the closure assembly is placed on.

(74) In the embodiment shown, the first separator, the induction element, and the second separator are fixed to each other such that they form a laminated material. Thus they are easier to manipulate, for example to remove after the induction sealing of the valve and the seal, for example by a user prior to removing the seal form the squeeze bottle.

(75) In a further embodiment, the laminated material, comprising the first and second separator and the first induction element between them, is temporarily attached to the valve on one side and to the seal on the opposite side by way of an intermediate material that melts at or near the induction sealing temperature, for example a layer of wax, to form a multi-layer material. This facilitates manipulating the combined materials, for example when positioning them inside the closure cap, more in particular the closure cap body part, prior to induction sealing.

(76) A closure assembly according to the invention is to be used for providing a squeeze bottle with a closure assembly, more in particular for providing a squeeze bottle with a closure assembly comprising a valve. The closure assembly allows for attaching the valve to the closure cap using induction sealing techniques.

(77) In a further embodiment according to the invention, the closure assembly allows for attaching a seal to the dispensing opening of the squeeze bottle and attaching the valve to the closure cap in a single production step using induction sealing. A method for thus providing a closure cap with a valve and a squeeze bottle with a seal is shown in FIG. 12.

(78) In FIG. 12 parts similar to the parts of the closure assemblies shown in the preceding Figs. have been provided with similar reference signs. Again, it is noted that the figures, in particular the depiction of the closure cap, have been simplified for explanatory reasons. Of the squeeze bottle on which the closure cap is placed, only the neck part is depicted.

(79) The closure assembly 901 shown in FIG. 12a is identical to the one shown in FIG. 10. The closure assembly comprises a closure cap 903, and a multi-layer material provided in a recess in that cap, more in particular in a recess of a closure cap body part of the closure cap, the multi-layer material comprising a valve 904, a first induction element 905, a first separator element 914, a second induction element 917 and a seal 909.

(80) In this embodiment, the valve and the seal are each provided with an induction element. These first and second induction element are positioned adjacent the valve and the seal respectively. By providing the valve and the seal each with an induction element, the distance between the induction elements and the sections to be induction sealed to the closure cap and squeeze bottle can be kept short for an optimal heat transfer during the induction process.

(81) The multi-layer material of the closure assembly 901 is provided with the separator elements such that, after the induction process, the multi-layer material can be split into a first laminate, comprising the valve 904 and the first induction element 917 attached to the closure cap, and a second laminate, comprising the separator element, the second induction element and the seal element, attached to a squeeze bottle.

(82) To attach the valve and the seal of the closure assembly to the closure cap and a squeeze bottle, the closure cap is positioned on a squeeze bottle 902, more in particular the closure cap body part is placed on the neck part 902a of a squeeze bottle 902, such that the dispensing opening 908 of the closure cap 903 is positioned over the dispensing opening of the squeeze bottle, as shown in FIG. 12b.

(83) Preferably, the cap is provided with attachment means (not shown in the Figs.), such as screw threat, click fingers, a click rib, etc, for attaching the cap to the squeeze bottle and clamping the multi-layer material between the closure cap and the squeeze bottle.

(84) Preferably, the squeeze bottle is provided with a neck part having a dispensing opening and a flange 902B defining that dispensing opening, for example as the squeeze bottle shown in FIG. 12. By providing the squeeze bottle with such a flange, the pressure exerted upon the multi-layer material extends over a larger area, which benefits the induction sealing the valve to the closure cap and the seal to the squeeze bottle. Preferably, the flange of the squeeze bottle matches the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part, such that when the closure cap is attached to the squeeze bottle, the peripheral section of the valve, and optionally the peripheral section of the seal, is clamped between the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part and the loop shaped flange of the squeeze bottle. Thus, the valve is optimally pressed against the inner surface of the top wall of the closure cap, and the seal is optimally pressed against the top surface of the flange of the squeeze bottle for sealing the valve and the seal to the respective surfaces.

(85) With the closure assembly according to the invention is placed on the neck part of a squeeze bottle, and the multi-layer material is clamped between the closure cap and the squeeze bottle, the combined squeeze bottle and closure assembly can be subjected to the induction sealing process for induction sealing the valve top the closure cap, and in the embodiment shown, the seal to the squeeze bottle, as is shown in FIG. 12b.

(86) During the induction process, the separating element prevents elements positioned on opposite sides of the separating element from getting attached to each other. When the closure cap is subsequently removed from the squeeze bottle, the valve remains attached to the closure cap, and, in the embodiment shown, the seal remains attached to the squeeze bottle, as is shown in FIG. 12c.

(87) In the embodiment shown, the first separator 914 is on one side permanently fixed to the second induction element 917, and on its opposite side temporarily attached to the first induction element 905. The first separator is attached to the first induction element by way of an intermediate adhesive layer of wax (not shown in the Figs.), to form a multi-layer material. The wax melts at the induction sealing temperature such that during the induction process bonding between the separator element and the first induction element is removed. Preferably the separator is made of a material that absorbs the molten wax, for example is made of a paper or foam material.

(88) Prior to use of the squeeze bottle for dispensing the contents thereof, the seal is to be removed from the squeeze bottle. In the particular embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the separator element, the second induction element and the seal are attached to each other such that they form a laminate. Thus, by removing the seal, the elements combined therewith are also removed. In an alternative embodiment, for example the seal and the induction element are combined in a laminate without the seal, allowing for removing these elements prior to removing the seal from the squeeze bottle.

(89) After the seal has been removed, the cap with the valve and the first induction element attached thereto is again placed on the squeeze bottle, as is shown in FIG. 12D. The contents of the squeeze bottle can now be dispensed using the valve of the closure assembly.

(90) In the embodiment shown, the first induction element is ring shaped and attached to the valve. Because of its ring shape it does not block the dispensing opening of the closure cap body part and the through slits of the valve. The first induction element does not need to be removed from the closure cap to enable use thereof. In an alternative embodiment, the first induction element can for example be a separate element, or be combined with a laminate comprising the valve, etc., and is removable from the closure cap body part after the induction process.

(91) It is noted that when the closure assembly only comprises a valve and not a seal, a first separator element can be provided that is arranged in the recess of the closure cap and adjacent to the first induction element to enable separating of the induction element from an object located on an opposite side of the separator element. For example, when a ring shaped induction element is attached to the valve, a separator element can be provided on the side of the induction element facing away from the valve to prevent the induction element and/or the valve from adhering to the squeeze bottle during the induction process. When the separator is provided with isolation properties, it can substantially block the heat of the induction element during the induction process, thus preventing damage to the neck part of the squeeze bottle.

(92) The first and/or second separator of a closure assembly according to the invention can be provided in the form of an inlay. The separator elements can be made of a compressible, non-thermoplastic material, such as a foam material, for example PE foam, or paper material.

(93) In addition to the elements of the embodiments shown, other elements can be provided in the multi-layer material comprising at least the valve and the first induction element. For example an extra support element, comprising one or more layers of paper and/or plastic foil material, can be provided to provide the multi-layer material, or a laminate with extra strength. Also a layer of foam material with resilient properties can be provided, to compensate for irregularities in the surfaces of the squeeze bottle and the closure cap between which the multi-layer material is clamped. Such a resilient layer can be combined with a layer of material that does not adhere to certain materials, for example the material the valve is made of, to form a separator element with both resilient properties.

(94) Furthermore, the elements can be provided with coatings, for example a wax coating to temporarily attach an element to an adjacent element, or for example with a plastic coating to facilitate attaching an element to a cap or squeeze bottle by way of induction sealing.

(95) It is observed that combining different materials in a multi-layer material or even in a laminate allows for handling the elements as a single object. Furthermore, the compound object is comparatively stiff compared to individual components themselves. Combining the different elements in a single object is especially advantageous when working with thin flexible materials, such as foils type materials. Combining the different materials in a multi-layer material thus facilitates using a foil type material for a valve.

(96) The invention furthermore provides a closure assembly wherein the valve is part of a multi-layer material. Different elements that constitute the multi-layer material are temporarily, i.e., prior to the induction process, or permanently, i.e. prior to as well as after the induction process, attached to each other. According to the invention the multi-layer material comprises:

(97) a, preferably disc shaped, layer of flexible foil material forming the valve, which foil material has a loop shaped peripheral section for overlapping the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap and a has central section suitable for locating in the dispensing opening of the closure cap, which central section is provided with at least one through slit, thus forming a resilient, self-closing valve of preferably a thermoplastic material, and

(98) a layer of metallic foil for forming the first induction element, for being arranged in the closure cap for induction sealing the valve to the closure cap, which metallic foil layer preferably is ring shaped, and has a loop shaped peripheral section for overlapping with the loop shaped peripheral section of the valve.

(99) The invention thus also provides a multi-layer material, herein also referred to multi-layer element, which may comprise one or more temporarily combined laminates. The invention furthermore provides a method, for providing such a multi-layer material.

(100) A multi-layer material for providing a closure assembly according to the invention can for example be provided using a method comprising the steps:

(101) providing a foil material, preferably a thermoplastic foil material, for providing a valve;

(102) providing an metallic foil material for providing an induction element;

(103) cutting at least one opening in the metallic foil material, preferably providing a ring shaped induction element;

(104) cutting at least one through slit in the thermoplastic foil material to create a self-closing valve;

(105) combining the metallic foil material and the thermoplastic foil material and positioning the thermoplastic foil and the metallic foil relative to each other such that the at least one through slit is positioned within the opening in the metallic foil.

(106) optionally: bonding the metallic foil material and the thermoplastic foil material into a laminate, and, optionally, die cutting the multi-layer material such that is will fit the recess of a cap of an assembly according to the invention.

(107) Depending on the configuration of the closure assembly to be provided the metallic foil material and the thermoplastic foil material can be combined into a multi-layer material, i.e. temporarily or permanently fixed to each other. It is observed that when elements are permanently fixed to each other, i.e. remain fixed to each other after the induction sealing process, they form a laminate. The laminate thus is a specific type of multi-layer material.

(108) It is furthermore observed that the outer contour of the layers of material forming the specific elements can be cut prior to, or after combining the materials. In the latter case, for example a layer of foil material provided with through slits is combined with a layer of metallic foil provided with multiple openings, which openings are positioned such that when both layers are combined, each of the openings in the metallic foil encloses one or more through slits for forming a valve.

(109) After the sheets individual sheet materials have been combined, the combined sheets are cut in on or more individual multi-layer materials, or multi-layer elements, each for placement in a closure cap, more in particular the body part of a closure cap. The multi-layer materials for example each comprise a layer forming the valve, a layer forming the induction element and a layer forming the separator. By thus providing the multi-layer materials, or multi-layer elements, for a closure assembly according to the invention, the different elements are provided with substantially identical circumferences.

(110) In a further method according to the invention, the multi-layer material, or multi-layer element, for placement in the closure cap is also provided with a layer of separator material. The layer of separator material can be provided for preventing layers of the multi-layer material to seal to each other or to seal to the squeeze bottle during the induction process.

(111) This further method comprises the additional steps:

(112) providing a sheet of separator material;

(113) combining the sheet of separator material with the metallic foil material and the thermoplastic foil material;

(114) optionally: bonding the separator material with the metallic foil material and the thermoplastic foil material into a multi-layer material.

(115) In a further method according to the invention, the multi-layer material, or multi-layer element, for placement in the closure cap is also provided with a layer of sealing material to provide a seal on the opening of the squeeze bottle. The seal is attached to the squeeze bottle by way of induction sealing, preferably during induction sealing the valve to the closure cap. A layer of separator material can be provided for preventing layers of the multi-layer material to seal to each other or to seal to the squeeze bottle during the induction process.

(116) This further method comprises the additional steps:

(117) providing a sheet of sealing material;

(118) combining the sheet of sealing material with the sheet of separator material;

(119) optionally: bonding the separator material with the metallic foil material and the thermoplastic foil material into a multi-layer material.

(120) The invention furthermore provides a method for providing a closure assembly according to the invention. A closure assembly according to the invention can be provided with a method comprising the steps:

(121) providing a closure cap comprising a cap part and a body part;

(122) providing a valve,

(123) positioning the valve in the body part of the closure cap;

(124) providing an induction element;

(125) positioning the induction element in the body part of the closure cap.

(126) In a preferred method, the valve and the induction element are combined to form a multi-layer material as described above, for example in the form of a laminate, which multi-layer material is placed in the body part of the closure cap in a single step. Thus, a closure assembly comprises a closure cap, and a multi-layer element provided in a body part of said closure cap, which multi-layer element comprises at least a valve and an induction element for induction sealing said valve to the body part of said cap. The closure assembly can in turn be placed on a filled squeeze bottle, after which the filled squeeze bottle can be passed through an induction device for induction sealing the valve to the closure cap.

(127) In a further method for providing a closure assembly according to the invention a separator is provided for preventing certain elements of the multi-layer material, for example a sealing layer and a valve layer, from attaching to each other, or for preventing certain elements of the multi-layer material, for example the induction material, from attaching to the squeeze bottle. Such a further method comprises the additional steps:

(128) providing a first separator;

(129) positioning the first separator in the body part of the closure cap.

(130) The separator can be provided between the valve and the induction material, or may be provided on the side of the multi-layer material opposite the side at which the valve is provided, to prevent the multi-layer material or parts thereof the attach to the squeeze bottle during the induction process. Preferably the separator is combined with the valve and the induction element in a multi-layer material.

(131) It should be clear to the skilled person that the different closure assemblies described in this document can be obtained with a method according to the invention, for example by adding further layers of materials, such as a sealing layer for sealing a squeeze bottle, by providing the different elements in the form of a multi-layer material, which multi-layer material may be or comprise a laminate of different materials.

(132) When the valve and the induction element are provided in the form of a multi-layer material according to the invention, or more in particular as a laminate according to the invention, they can be positioned in the cap in a single step.

(133) The invention furthermore provides a method for providing a squeeze bottle with a closure assembly according to the invention, the method comprising the steps:

(134) providing a dispenser squeeze bottle having a neck with a dispensing opening;

(135) providing a closure assembly according to the invention, preferably using a method according to the invention;

(136) positioning the closure assembly, more in particular the closure cap body part of the closure assembly on the neck of the squeeze bottle such that at least the vale and the induction element are clamped between an upper end of the squeeze bottle neck and the top wall of the closure cap body part;

(137) induction sealing at least the valve to the body part of the closure cap.

(138) The invention furthermore provides a method for providing a squeeze bottle with a seal on its dispensing opening using a closure assembly according to the invention. Preferably, the squeeze bottle is sealed while induction sealing the valve to the closure cap, more in particular to the closure cap body part. The further method comprises the steps:

(139) providing the squeeze bottle with a closure assembly comprising a seal in addition to at least the valve, induction element and separator;

(140) positioning the closure assembly, more in particular the closure cap body part of the closure assembly, on the neck of the squeeze bottle such that at least the valve, the induction element, the separator and the valve are clamped between an upper end of the squeeze bottle neck and the top wall of the closure cap body part, and wherein the valve is positioned against the cap, the seal is positioned against the squeeze bottle, and the separator and the induction element are provided between the valve and the seal;

(141) induction sealing at least the valve to the closure cap body part and the seal to the squeeze bottle neck in a single production step.

(142) The invention furthermore provides a method for providing a squeeze bottle with a closure assembly wherein the valve is induction sealed to the closure cap in a first production step and the seal is induction sealed to the neck of the squeeze bottle in a separate production step.

(143) In such a method, the closures assembly comprises at least a closure cap, a valve, one or more induction elements, and at least a seal for sealing the squeeze bottle onto which the closure cap is to be placed. Preferably these components are provided in the form of a multi-layer material, and are positioned in the cap in a single production step. The one or more induction elements are positioned between the valve and the seal for, in a first induction sealing step, induction sealing the valve to the closure cap, and for, in a second induction sealing step, induction sealing the seal to the squeeze bottle. In this particular method, the first induction sealing step is performed prior to placing the closure cap on the squeeze bottle, and the second induction sealing step is performed after placing the closure cap on the squeeze bottle.

(144) Thus, in this method according to the invention, the valve and the seal of the closure assembly are induction sealed to the closure cap and the squeeze bottle in separate induction sealing steps, more in particular, the valve is induction sealed to the closure cap prior to positioning the closure cap, more in particular the closure cap body part, on the squeeze bottle, and the seal is induction sealed to the squeeze bottle after the closure assembly has been positioned on the squeeze bottle.

(145) During the first inductions step, a pressure body, for example a stop or a body shaped similar to the neck part of the squeeze bottle, is inserted in the recesses of the closure cap body part to press the elements, in particular the valve, against the inner surface of the closure cap body part to enable induction sealing the valve to the closure cap. Subsequently the induction element is heated and the valve is sealed to the closure cap. The stop is removed and the closure assembly, with the valve fixed to the closure cap, is processed further, for example transported to a squeeze bottle filling station.

(146) When the closure assembly is positioned on a filled squeeze bottle, such that at least the induction element and the seal are clamped between the closure cap, more in particular the closure cap body part, and the squeeze bottle, the induction element is heated and the seal is induction sealed to the squeeze bottle.

(147) The above can be achieved by using one induction element for providing heat to both the valve and the seal, or by providing two dedicated induction elements, one for the valve and one for the seal.

(148) Preferably, with a closure assembly according to the invention comprising a seal and a separator, at least the separator and the seal are dimensioned such that when the closure assembly is mounted on the squeeze bottle, these elements are clamped between the squeeze bottle and the closure cap, more in particular the body part of the closure cap. Preferably, the separator element is of sufficient rigidity to keep the valve positioned against the closure cap when the assembly is mounted on the squeeze bottle.

(149) This is especially beneficial when the dispensing opening of the closure cap has a diameter significantly smaller than the diameter of the dispensing opening of the squeeze bottle. Thus, the valve is kept in its position against the closure cap body part during the induction process for attaching the valve to the closure cap and/or, when using a two step induction process, prevent the valve from coming loose from the closure cap while induction sealing the seal to the squeeze bottle

(150) It should be clear to the skilled person that methods described above can, separate or in combination, be used to provide a squeeze bottle with a closure using a closure assembly according to the invention.

(151) It is furthermore observed that seals and separators as such are known from the art for sealing squeeze bottles. The invention provides a valve that can be fixed to a closure cap body part by way of known induction techniques. The invention furthermore allows for combining this valve with sealing techniques and materials that as such are known in the prior art to enable attaching the valve to the closure cap while sealing the squeeze bottle.

(152) Preferably, the induction elements in an assembly according to the invention are made of a metal foil material. Alternatively, metal wires can be used. Other suitable alternatives known in the prior art can be used as well.

(153) Preferably, body part and/or valve, or other layers of material combined with the valve into a laminate material, are provided with retaining devices which prevent the valve from falling out of the recess of the closure cap when the closure assembly is positioned onto the squeeze bottle. For example the body part can be provided with protrusions, for example screw thread or click fingers, in the recess which hook behind the valve when it is placed inside the recess. Also, the valve, or for example a seal combined therewith into a multi-layer material, can be provided with radially extending flexible fingers, which engage screw thread provided inside the recess and thus secure the seal in the recess.

(154) It is noted that the squeeze bottle according to the invention is a squeezable container for holding the substance to be dispensed. It is noted that the squeezable container can also be provide in the form of a pouch or tube. However, for the sake of brevity, in this text the container is referred to as a squeeze bottle only. It should be understood that the invention also comprises a squeeze bottle in which the bottle is provided in the form of a pouch or tube.

(155) It is noted that additional elements can be added to the closure assembly according to the invention and additional layers of materials can be added to the multi-layer material according to the invention.

(156) For example, a multi-layer material or laminate material according to the invention can be provided with a Radio frequency identification (“RFID”) tag. A RFID tag comprises an integrated circuit and an antenna. The integrated circuit is used for storing and processing information, modulating and demodulating a radio-frequency (RF) signal, collecting DC power from the incident reader signal, and other specialized functions. The antenna is used for receiving and transmitting a signal. Two-way radio transmitter-receivers called interrogators or readers can be used to send a signal to the tag and read its response.

(157) Thus a RFID tag can be used for identifying and locating an object provided with the tag. Combined with a multi-layer material according to the invention, a RFID tag may be utilized to track the multi-layer material it is part of, a closure assembly comprising said multi-layer material and/or a squeeze bottle provided with such a closure assembly. The multi-layer material can thus be tracked for example during assembly of a closure cap or squeeze bottle, subsequent transport and storage of the squeeze bottle, etc. Also, a RFID tag can be used to provide information concerning the products held by the container, such as the type of product, its location, its expiration date, an identification number, etc.

(158) Integration of the RFID tag within a multi-layer material or laminate according to the invention, can enhance protection of the tag during the shipping and handling process. However, should an RFID tag contact a metallic layer for induction sealing the multi-layer material or laminate to the closure cap or squeeze bottle, the tag may be rendered completely inoperative, or the operational radius of the RFID tag may be significantly reduced. Therefore the TAG is preferably provided sealed in a substrate material which in turn can be combined as an additional layer with a multi-layer material or laminate according to the invention. In addition or alternatively, the RFID tag is provided adjacent or between layers of non-metallic material.

(159) In an embodiment, the RFID tag forms a laminate with the valve, and thus is a permanent part of the closure assembly after the induction sealing process. In such an embodiment, the RFID tag is configured such that it does not block the central part of the valve. Preferably, the RFID tag and/or the layer or substrate it is provided in, is ring shaped comprising a loop shaped peripheral section that overlaps with the loop shaped attachment surface of the closure cap body part and the peripheral section of the valve, and a central section comprising an opening such that the RFID tag does not cover the central section of the valve, to allow use of the valve.

(160) By providing a RFID tag as part of a laminate material comprising the valve, once the laminate has been induction sealed to the closure cap body part the tag cannot be removed from the closure assembly without rendering the closure assembly inoperable. This is beneficial when the tag is for example used as anti-theft device which cooperates with detectors provided in a store.