Title of Invention	AN INTEGRALLY MOLDED PLASTIC CONTAINER, A CLOSURE, A DISPENSER PACKAGE FOR A FLUENT PRODUCT AND A METHOD OF MAKING SAID PACKAGE
Abstract	A dispenser package for fluent products such as cosmetics and lotions that includes an integrally molded plastic container having a flexible body with a sidewall, a closed bottom, and a top wall having a dispensing opening offset from the axis of the container body. A closure has a base wall and a peripheral skirt. In some embodiments of the invention, the closure is rotatably mounted on the container body, and has a dispensin~ opening in the closure base wall for selective registry with the dispensing opening in the top wall of the container body. Detent elements are provided on the closure and container body for selectively locking the closure in open and closed positions. In alternative embodiments, the closure includes a flip-top hinged to the -base wall, with a plug extending therefrom for selectively opening and closing the dispensing opening in the container body top wall.

Title of Invention

AN INTEGRALLY MOLDED PLASTIC CONTAINER, A CLOSURE, A DISPENSER PACKAGE FOR A FLUENT PRODUCT AND A METHOD OF MAKING SAID PACKAGE

Abstract

A dispenser package for fluent products such as cosmetics and lotions that includes an integrally molded plastic container having a flexible body with a sidewall, a closed bottom, and a top wall having a dispensing opening offset from the axis of the container body. A closure has a base wall and a peripheral skirt. In some embodiments of the invention, the closure is rotatably mounted on the container body, and has a dispensin~ opening in the closure base wall for selective registry with the dispensing opening in the top wall of the container body. Detent elements are provided on the closure and container body for selectively locking the closure in open and closed positions. In alternative embodiments, the closure includes a flip-top hinged to the -base wall, with a plug extending therefrom for selectively opening and closing the dispensing opening in the container body top wall.

Full Text	The present invention is directed to dispenser packages for fluent products such as cosmetics and body lotions, and more particularly to a dispenser package and method of manufacture in which the dispensing closure is closely integrated in contour and structure with the body of the package container Background add Summary of the Invention It is a general object of die present invention to provide a dispenser package and method of manufacture for fluent products, such as cosmetics and lotions, which obtain i reduced manufacturing and inventory costs by reducing the number and complexity of S component pans and/or by improved ease of assembly. Another and related objeq of the h present invention is to provide a dispenser package and method of manufacture!having improved visual impact in terms of blending the closure structurally and by contour more closely with the design of the package container body. Yet another object of the present invention ti to provide a dispenser package and method of manufacture having a low-profile closure and. consequently, increased panel area, for application of labeling to the container body. A dispenser package for a fluent product in accordance with one aspect of the present invention includes an integrally molded plastic container having a body with a sidewall, a closed bottom, and a top wall with at least one opening offset from the axis of the container body. A circumferential exterior channel extends around the sidewall of the container body adjacent to the top wall A closure his a base wall, a peripheral skirt, and a rib that extends radially inwardly from the skirt for slidable receipt in the channel to mount the closure on the container body for rotation about the axis of the body The closure has an opening for registry with the offset opening in the top wall of the container body for dispensing product from the package. Detent elements are provided on the base wall of the closure and the top wall of the container for rdeasably locking the closure to the container with the opening in the closure in registry with the opening in the container for dispensing product In the preferred embodiments in accordance with this 3spect of the invention, these detent elements include an elevated plateau on the top wall oi the container sunounding the dispensing opening, and an annular collar depending from the closure top wall surrounding die opening in the top wall for releasable locking registry with the plateau on the container. The plateau preferably has an angulated sidewall for camming the collar into and out of locking registry with the plateau as die closure is rotated on the container. The closure preferably also has a lug in the form of a depression in the base wall angularly spaced from the opening in the closure base wall for releasable locking engagement with the opening in the top wall of the container body to lock the closure with respect to the container body with the opening in the closure out of registry with the dispensing opening in die container In this way, the closure may be releasabty locked widi respect to the container body bodi with die openings in registry for dispensing product, and with the openings out of registry to prevent i dispensing of product i. In some preferred embodiments of the invention, the container top wa\|l has an opening centered on the axis of the container body that is of larger diameter than tne offset dispensing opening This central opening is surrounded by a wall that extend^ axially outwardly from rhe container top wall terminating in a radial bead, and the closure b^se wall has an axia)ly and radially inwardly extending bead for sliding receipt by snap fit over the radial bead on the top wall The closure base wall preferably further includes an annular wall spaced radially inwardly from the bead fur sliding internal sealing engagement with the axial wall on the container top wall A check valve may be mounted in the dispensing opening in i the container top wall. The dispensing opening in the closure may extend axially through the if closure base wall, or may comprise an axial portion for registry with the dispensing Opening ! in the container top wall and a radial portion that extends through the closure base wafl to the skin. A circumferential array of axial ribs may be provided around the outer surfacj of the closure skin to facilitate gripping and rotation of the closure on the container body A dispenser package for a fluent product in accordance with another aspect of the present invention includes an integrally molded plastic container having a body with a sidewaJl on a central axis, a closed bottom and a top wall having a first opening centered on (he axis and at least one second opening offset from the axis. A closure has a base wall and a peripheral skirt The base wall of the closure has an annular axially extending wall with interlocking means for engaging the first opening in the top wall of the container body to mount the closure on the container, and means for selectively opening and closing the dispensing opening in the container body. The closure may be non-rotatably mounted on the container body and include a flip-top hinge to the closure. The flip-top closure may cover the top of the container body, or may be mounted in a recessed pocket on the top of the container bodv for closely matching the peripheral and axial conrours of the container body The flip top preferably has a plug for engagement within die dispensing opening on the container body i top wall to seal the dispenser opening when the flip top is closed. Alternatively, the closure may be rotatably mounted on the container body, with an opening in the base wall of the closure offset from the axis of the container body for selective registry with the dispensing opening in the container body as previously discussed. ?re, l>efription of the Drawings The invention, together with additional objects, features and advantages thereof will be best understood from the following description, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings in which. FIG. I is a broken perspective view of a dispenser package for fluent products in accordance with one presently preferred embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken substantially along the line 2-2 in FIG l; FIG. 3 is a fragmentary sectional view of the top portion of FIG 2 on an enlarged scale showing the dispenser package with the dispensing openings in registry, FIG- 3A is a view similar to that of FIG 3 but showing the dispensing openings closed; FIG. 4 is a fragmentary perspective view of a dispenser package in accordance with a modified embodiment of the invention; i FIG 5 is a fragmentary perspective sectional view taken substantially along the line 5-3 in FIG 4; ! i FIG 6 is a fragmentary perspective vjew of a dispenser package in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; FIG. 7 is a fragmentary sei;ttonal view taken substantially along the lii¾fc 7-7 in FIG 6, FIG 8 is a broken perspective1 of a dispenser package in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention, IIG. 9 is a fiag?neiuaiy sertional view taken substantially along the line 9-9 in FIG 8, FIG 10 is a fragmentajy perspective view of a dispenser package in accordance with a farther emhodiment of the invention, FIG 11 is a fragmentary sectional view taken substantially along the line 1111 in FIG. 10; FIG, 12 is a fragmentary perspective view of a dispenser package in accordance with anothet embodiment of the invention, FIG. 13 is a fragmentajy sectional view taken substantially along the line 13-13 in FIG 12. FIG 14 is a sectional view taken substantially along the line 14-14 in FIG. 13, FIG 15 is a fragmentary perspective view of a further embodiment of the invention; FIG 16 is a fragmentary sectional view taken substantially along the line 16-16 in FIG 15, FIG 17 is a sectional view taken substantially along the line 17 17 in FIG. 16, FIG. 18 is a fragmentary perspective view of another embodiment of the invention; FIG. 19 is a sectional view taken substantially along the line 19-19 in FIG. 18. FIG. 20 is a fragmentary perspective view a further embodiment of the invention; and FIG 2Us a sectional view taken substantially along the line 21-21 in FIG 20 Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments FIGS 1-3A illustrate a dispenser package 30 for fluent products, such as cosmetics and lotions, m accordance with one presently preferred embodiment of the invention Package 30 includes an integrally molded plastic container 32 having a flexible body with a sidewail 34, a closed bottom 36 and a top wall 38. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-3A. sidewail 34 is cylindrical throughout its length. However, it will be understood that, in accordance with this aspect of the invention, only the upper portion of the r I interior body that rotatably receives the closure need be round, preferably cylindrical'. The lower portion of the body can be rectangular, oval or any other desired shape. Top vvall 38 tapers upwardly and inwardly having an enlarged circular center opening 40 coaxial with the i axis of sidewail 34, and at least one circular opening 42 offset from the axis of the si A closure 50 is rotatably mounted on container 32 to form dispenser package 30 Closure 50 includes a circular base wall 52 from which a peripheral skirt 54 integrally depends A circumferential array of axially extending ribs are formed on the outer periphery of skirt 54 for enhanced gripping to rotate closure 50 on container 32. Base wall 52 of closure 50 is parallel to and uniformly spaced horn top wall 38 of container 32. A circumferentially continuous rib or bead 56 extends radially inwardly from the free end of skin 54 remote from base wall 52, and is received by sliding snap fit within channel 43 on sidewall 34 A ar<:umferentia continuous annular wait depends from the central portion of closure base wall surrounding and bead in assembly a circumferennajly rib or projects radially inwardly free end is received by snap fit> assembly beneath bead 44 on wall 41 A second annular wall 60 depends from base wall 52 of closure 50 spaced radially inwardly from wall 57 so as to be received in sliding engagement within the inside diameter of wall 41 and form a plug seal with respect to wall 41 A circular dispensing opening 62 is formed in closure base wall 52 at a position radially offset from the axis of closure 50 by. an amount corresponding to the offset of opening 42 in container top wall 38 from the axis of container sidewall 34 Opening 62 is surrounded and defined by an annular collar 64 that extends inwardly from closure base wall 52. The rounded free edge of collar 64 lies in a plane parallel to container top wall 38, as best seen in FIG 3A Opening 62 and wall 61 have an inside diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of conical wall 48 of plateau 46 in container top wall 38 A lug 66 is formed as a part-spherical depression in base wall 52 of closure 50 at a position radially offset from the axis of closure 50 by a distance corresponding to the radial offset of plateau 46 and opening 42 in container 32 The outer diameter of closure skirt 54 is the same -as the outer diameter of sidewall 34 so that thej closure* periphery blends with the container sidewall Container 32 and closure 50 preferably are of plastic composition of any [suitable l type,1 and may be formed in any suitable molding operation. It is presently preferred that container 32 be of polyethylene composition, and that closure 50 be of polypiibpylene composition. With closure 50 separate fiom container 32, container 32 is filled with'product through center opening 40 defined by wall 41 After filling, closure 50 is assembled to container 32 by snapping bead 58 of wall 57 over bead 44 of wall 41, and by snapping bead 56 of peripheral wall 54 into channel 43 of container sidewall 34. For shipment and storage, closure 50 is circumferenually positioned with respect to container 32 such that depression 66 on closure base will 52 registers and aligns with dispensing opening 42 in container top wall 38, as shown in FIG. 3A, thereby closing the dispenser package. To dispense product from wiihm the package, closure 50 is rotated about the axis of container 32 Initial rotation cams depression 66 out of opening 42 and down conical wail 48 of plateau 46 as container top wall 38 flexes axiaily inwardly. Continued rotation brings the lower edge of wall 64 into carjiming engagement with conical wall 48 of plateau 46, whereby wall 38 is cammed downwardly until plateau 46 ahgns or registers with closure wall 64, At this point, cooperative engagement between plateau 46 on container top wall 38 and wall 64 on closure base wall 52 reliably locks the closure in posirion so (hat product may be dispensed from within the package by squeezing the side wall of comainer 34, The sidewall 34 of container 32 is sufficiently thin to permit such flexure, and leassumes the initial configuration illustrated in the drawings when the squeezing forces have been released. To close package 30, closure 50 is rotated in the opposite direction, initially flexing plateau 46 inwardly and moving closure wall 64 out of registry therewith, and subsequently again flexing plateau 46 inwardly and moving depression 66 into sealing iegistry with dispensing opening 42 FIGS. 4-21 illustrate various modified embodiments of the invention, in which identical reference numerals indicate identical components, and reference numerals with a letter suffix indicate modified but functionally similar components FIGS 4 and 5 illustrate a dispenser package 70, which is basically similar to package 30 of FIGS 1 -3A except in the configuration of the dispenser opening 62a in closure 50a. Closure dispensing opening 62a has an axial portion defined by an annular closure wall 64a, and a portion 72 that extends radially through base wall 52a of closure 50a. Thus, product is dispensed radially,in the embodiment 70 of FIGS 4 and 5 through the peripheral wall 54a of closure 50a. FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate a dispenser package 74 in which dispensing opening 62b and detent depression 66b are on diametrically opposed sides of the axis of closure 50b, rather than at 90" spacing from each other as in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-5. Top wall 38b of container Mb »m-hides an upwardly facing pocket 76 for registry with depression 66b in the upon µoiuuu ol pocket l•\ illusltatcd lit f•'IG /, and foi icgistiy with wall G•lb tn the closed position of the dispenser Thus, both plateau 46b surrounding dispensing opening 42b in container 32b and pocket 76 cooperate with both depression 62b and annular wall 64b surrounding dispensing opening 62b in closure 50b releasably to lock the closure in both the dispensing and non-dispensing positions of the closure- Base wall 52b of closure 50b has a peripheral skjn 54b that is either spaced from or in sliding engagement with the opposed aal surface of wall 38b. Thus, closure 50b is retained on container 32b solely by the interlocking beads 44, 58 at center opening 40. FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate a dispenser package 78 of generally oval cross section, as distinguished from the circular cross section of the dispenser packages illustrated in, FIGS. 1-7 Closure 50c is rotatabiy secured to annular wall 41 of container top wall 38c; in the manner previously described. A resilienr check valve 80 is caprured by a ring 82 that snaps i into a beaded depression 84 rhat defines the dispensing opening in container top wall 38£. The i upper surface of valve-retaining ring 82 is flat. A depression 66c is again formed in closure \ 50c at a position diametrically opposed to dispensing opening 62. However, wall 64 dbfining dispensing opening 62, and depression 66 do not function as detent locking meansi>jin this embodiment, bui merely register with ring V either to open dispensing valve 84 in the position i1 shown in FIG. 9, or to close the dispensing opening in the position 180° from that shown in FIGS 8 and 9 In this embodiment, the peripheral edge of closure skirt 54c registers with a shoulder 86 defined around the periphery of container sidewall 34c releasably to hold closure 50c in either die onen or the closed nosirion.• When the closure is rotated with respect to the container ooay, inc container 5iuew&n uecs uuwuw I until the closure is rotated 180. at which point the container sidewall flexes outwardly again releasably to lock the closure in position. Valve 80 may be of any suitable configuration One i presently preferred embodiment of valve 80 is illustrated in US Application Sena) No l 08/746.521 Tiled November 12, 1996 and incorporated herein by reference. FIGS 10 11 illustrate a dispenser package 88 in accordance with yet another I embodiment of the invention Sidewall 34d of container 32d has circumferentially contiguous groove 43 as in die embodiments of FIGS 1-5. Top wall 38d of container 32d has dispensing opening 42 on plateau 46 as in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 -3A, and has a second opening 42d on a plateau 46d diametrically spaced from opening 42 and plateau 46. There is one dispensing opening 62 in closure 50d defined by an inwardly extending annular wall 64, and three depressions 66 at 90; spacing from each other and from opening 62 Container 32d does not have a ictiici fill opening 40 as in the pnor embodiments, but is filled with product through one of the offset openings 42, 42d, Thus, closure 50d can be locked in the open position illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11 by registry of wall 64 with plateau 46 or 46d and the diametrically opposed depression 66 with the diametrically opposed plateau, and may be relea5ably locked in the closed position by registry of the other depressions 66 with the openings 42, 42d. Thus, package 88 has die advantage that either one of the openings 42, 42d can function as the dispensing opening so that, from the closed position, closure 52 can be rotated 90° in either direction for dispensing, and thereafter rotated 90 degrees in either direction to close the dispensing opening FIGS. 12-21 illustrate various embodiments of the invention in which the closure comprises a flip-top closure, in which a portion is pivoted upwardly on a hinge to expose nr open the dispensing opening, and thereafter pivoted downwardly about the hinge to close \he dispensing opening. FIGS 12-14 illustrate a dispenser package 90 that includes a top wall and side wall of the container Closure 106 includes a base wall 52f and a peripheral skin 54 f, and a Hip-top portion 93f connected to base wall 52f by hinges 92 as illustrated in FIGS 14 and 17. In the same way, closure 110 of package 104 in FIGS. 20 and 21 includes a base wall 52g with a peripheral skirt 54g, and a flip top 93g connected thereto by hinges Closure 110 is seated on a ledge IQ6g formed in container top wall 38g Although the embodiments of FIGS. 12-21 illustrate a telescoping snap-fa arrangement in which a wall 57e or 57f is received within an annular wall 4le or 4If, it is also contemplated ih these embodiments that the closure mounting arrangement could be as at 57, 41 in FIGS 3, 5, 7 and CLAIMS A dispenser package For a fluent product, which comprises an integrally molded plastic container (32 or 32d) having a flexible body with a 5idewall (34 or 34d) having a central axis, a closed bottom (36), a top wall (38 or 38d) with at least one opening (42) offset front said axis, and a circumferential exterior channel (43) extending around said sidewall adjacent to said top wall, and a closure (50. 50a or 5Od) having a base wall (52, 52a or 52d), a peripheral skirt, (54, 54a or 54d) and a rib (56) extending radially inwardly from said skirt for slidablr receipt in The package set forth in claim 2 wherein said detent means comprises a second opening f 42d) in said top wall angularly spaced from said at least one opening (42), and 3 lug (66) on said base wall angularly spaced from said Opening in said closure for registry with said second opening in said top wall when said opening in said closure registers with said at least one opening in said top wall 4. The package set forth in claim 3 wherein said at least one opening (42) and said second opening (42d) in said top wall are at equal radial offset from said axis, such that said lug (66) on said closure may cooperate with said at lea¾t one opening in said top wall for relejasably locking said closure to said container with said opening in said closure out of registry w-jjth said I1! at least one opening in said top wall. 5. The package set forth in claim 4 wherein said lug (66)on said closure comprises a depression in said base wall. 6 The package set forth in claim 5 wherein said base wall includes a plurality of said depressions (66) for releasably locking said closure to said container in a plurality of angularly spaced positions 7. The package set forth in claim 2 wherein said detent means comprises an elevated plateau (46) on said top wall of said container surrounding said at least one opening (42), and an annular collar (64 or 64a) on said closure top wall for rcleasable locking registry with said plateau The package set forth in claim / wherein said plateau (46) has an angulated >idewatl for camming said collar (64 or 64a) into and out of registry with said plateau as said closure is rotated on said container 9. [he package set forth m claim H wherein said collar (64 or 64a) has a rounded edge remote from said base wall 10. The package set forth in claim 9 wherein said closure has a lug (66) rhat extends from said base wall angularly spaced from said at least one opening for relcasable locking engagement with said opening in said top wall to lock said closure to said container with said at least one opening in said top wall and said opening in said base wall out of registry 11 The package set forth in claim 10 wherein said lug (66) on said closure comprises a depression in said base wall 12. The package set forth in claim 1 wherein said container top wall (38) has an 'i opening (40) centered on said axis that is of larger diameter than said at least one opening (42) offset from said axis. The package set forth in claim 12 wherein said central opening (40) is surrounded i by a wall (41) that extends axially outwardly from said top wall terminating in a radial bead (44), and wherein said closure base wall has an axially and radially inwardly extending bead (57) for slide receipt by snap fn over said radial bead on said top wall, 14 ( The package set forth in claim 13 wherein said closure base wall further irlcludes an annular wall (60) spaced radially inwardly from said bead (57) tor sliding internal receiptfjwithin said axial wall (41) on said top wall. 15. The package set forth in any preceding claim 1-14 further comprising a check valve (80) mounted in said at least one opening (42) in said top wall. 16. The package set forth in any preceding claim 1-14 wherein said opening (62a) in said closure base wall comprises an axial portion for registry wiih said at least one opening (42) in said container top wall, and a radial portion (72) that extends through said base wall to said skirt. 17 The package set forth in any preceding claim further comprising a circumferential array of outer surface ribs extending around said peripheral skirt (54) to facilitate rotation of said closure on said container. A dispenser package tor a fluent product, which comprises: an integrally molded plastic container (32 or 32b or 32c or 32e or 32f) havina a flexible body with 3 sidewaH (34 or 34b or 34c) having a central axis, a closed bottom (36) and a top wall (38 or 38b or 38c or 38e or 38f) having a first opening (40 or 4Oe) centered on said axis and a least one second opening (42 or 42e or 42b) offset from Said axis, and a closure (50 or 50a or 50b or 50c or 5Oe or 108 or 110) that has a base wall and a peripheral skirt, .said base -A all having an annular axially extending wall f57 or 57e or 57f) with interlocking means (58) for engaging said first opening in said top wall to mount said closure on said container, and means (62 or 62a or 62b or 93 or 93f or 93g) for selectively opening and closing said at least one opening in said container. 19. i The package set forth in IS wherein said first opening (40) in said container is i surrounded by an annuiai wall (41) that extends axially outwardly from said top wall andja radial 1 bead (44) that extends outwardly from $ajd annular wall, and wherein said interlocking meJtns (58) i comprises a radially inwardly extending bead on said annular axially extending wail (57); of said closure for receipt over said bead on said top wall. 20 The package set forth in claim 19 wherein said closure has a second annular wall (60) of a diameter for close fit within said annular wall on said top wall 21. The package set tenth in claim 18 wherein said closure (5Oe) is non-rotatably mounted on said container, and wherein said selectively opening means comprises a flip top (93 or 93f or 93g) hinged to ¾aid closure. The package set forth in claim 21 wherein said flip top (93 or 93 for 93 g)'has a i plug (91) for internal sealing registry with said second opening (42e) in said container wheii said ! * Hip tup is closed 23. The package set forth in claim 21 wherein said interlocking means (58) comprises a radially outwardly extending rib in said annular axially extending wall for snap-fit receipt through said first opening (4Oe) in said top wall. ?A The package set forth in claim 71 wherein said container top wall (38f or 38g) has a recessed portion (106 or 1O6g) in which said first opening, said second opening and said closure (108 or 110) are disposed. 25. The package set forth in claim 18 wherein said closure (50 or 50a or 50b or 50c) is rotatably mounted on said container, and wherein said selectively opening means comprises an opening (6?n or (CJ or 6?b) in said base wall ufftet from said axis from selective registry with said second opening (42 or 42b) in said top wall. 26. The package set forth in claim 25 further comprising detent means (46,64 or 46, 64a or 46b, 62b or 66b, 76 or 54c, 86) on said base wall of said closure and said top wall of said container for rcleasablv locking said closure to said container with said opening in said closure in registry with said opening in said container. 1 he p;K:kage set forth in claim 26 wherein said detent means comprises an elevated plateau (46) on said lop wall of said container surrounding said at least one opening (42), and an annular collar (64 or 64a) on said closure top wall for releasable locking registry with said plateau. 28 The package set forth in claim 27 wherein said plateau (46) has an angulated sidewall for camming said collar into and out of registry with said plateau as said closure Is rotated on said container 29 The package set forth in claim 28 wherein said collar (64 or 64a) has an edge remote from said base wall. 30. The package set forth in claim 29 wherein said closure has a lug (66 or 66b) that extends from said base wall angularly spaced from said at least one opening for releasable locking engagement with said opening in said top wall to lock said closure to said container with s^id at least one opening in said top wall and said opening in said base wall out of registry. 31. The package set forth hi claim 30 wherein said lug (66 or 66b) on said closure comprises a depression in said base wall The package set forth in claim 26 wherein said detent means comprises a second opening (4?d) in said top wall angularly spaced from said at least one opening ('42), and a lug (66) on said base wall angulaiiv spaced from said opening (42) in said closuie for registry with said »econd opening in said top wall when said opening in said closure registers with said at least one wprning in .s;wd top v-ull 33. The package set forth in claim 32 wherein said at least one opening (42) and said second opening (4?.d) in said top wall are at equal radial offset from said axis, such thar said lug (66) on said closure may cooperate with said at least one opening in said top wall for releasably locking said closure to said container with said opening in said closure out of registry with said at least one opening in said top wall. 34. The package set forth in claim 33 wherein said lug (66)on said closure comprises a depression in said base wall. 35. The package set forth in claim 34 wherein said base wall includes a plurality of said depressions (66) for releasably locking said closure to said container in a plurality or ai>gmany spaced positions. A method of making a dispenser package for a fluent product, which comprises lll« ItCp• Of * id) integrally molding aplaiuc cuutamci (J2 ur M\i) having u ttexible bu (b) providing a closure (50, 50c or 5Od) having a base wall (52, 52aor52d), a peripheral skirt (54, 54a or 54d), and a rib {56) extending radially inwardly from said skirt for slidable,receipt in said channel to mount said closure on said container for rotation about said axis, said closure having an opening (62 or 62a)for registry with said at least one opening in said top wall for dispensing product from said package, and '? (c) mounting said closure on said container with said rib in sliding snap-fit+ * within said channel. 37. A method of making a dispenser package for a fluent product, which comprises i the steps of; i ; (a) integrally molding a plastic container (32 or 32b or 32c or 32e 6r 32f) having a flexible body with a sidewall (34 or 34b or 34c) having a central axis, a closed fyottom (36) and a top wall (38 or 38b or 38c or 38e or 38f) having a first operung centered on said axis and at least one second opening (42 or 42b or 42e) offset from said axis, (b) providing a closure (50 or 50a or 50b or 50c or 50c or 108 or 110) that has a base wall and a peripheral skirt, said base wall having an annular axially extending wall (57 or 57e or 57f) with interlocking means for engaging said first opening, and means (62 or 62a or 62b or 93 or 93f or 93g) for selectively opening and closing said at least one opening in'said I* container, and (c) mounting said closure on said container by engaging said interlocking means with said top wall 38.' An integrally molded plastic container (32 or 32d) having a flexible body with a sidewall (34 or 34d) having a central axis, a closed bottom (36), a top wall (38 or 38d) with at least one opening (42) offset from said axis, and a circumferential exterior radially outwardly opening channel (43) extending around said sidewall adjacent to said top wall. 39. A closure (50, 50a or 5Od) having a base wall (52 or 52a or 52d'j, a peripheral skirt n4 or 54a or 54d), and a rib (56) extending radially inwardly from said skirt for slidable receipt in a Qknnel on a container to mount said closuie on the container for rotation about an axis, said closure having an opening (62 or 62a) for registry with an opening in the container for dispensing product from said package. 40. An integrally molded plastic container (32 or 32b or 32c or 32e or 32f) having a flexible body with a sidewall (34 or 34b or 34c) having a central axis, a closed bottom (36) and a top w¾ll (38 Or 38b or 38c or 38e or 38f) having a first opening (40 or 4Oe) centered on said axis and at least one second opening (42a 42b or 42e) offset from said axis, said first opening in said container being surrounded by an annular wall (41) that extends axial Iy outwardly froto said top wall and a radial bead (44) that extends outwardly from said annular wall. A closure (50 or 50a or 50b or 50c or 5Oe or 108 or 110) ihat has a base wall ¾nd a peripheral skirl, said base wall having an annular axially extending wall (57 or 57e or 57t) with interlocking means (58) for engaging an opening in a top wall of a container to mount said closure on said container, and means (62 or 62a or 62b or 93 or 93f or 93g) for selectively opening and closing said at least one opening in said container, said interlocking means comprising a radially inwardly extending bead on said annular axially extending wall of said closure. 42. A dispenser package for a fluent product substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings, 43* A' method of making a dispenser package for a fluent product substantially as herein described with reference toj the accompanying drawings.

Full Text

The present invention is directed to dispenser packages for fluent products such as cosmetics and body lotions, and more particularly to a dispenser package and method of manufacture in which the dispensing closure is closely integrated in contour and structure with the body of the package container
Background add Summary of the Invention
It is a general object of die present invention to provide a dispenser package and
method of manufacture for fluent products, such as cosmetics and lotions, which obtain
i reduced manufacturing and inventory costs by reducing the number and complexity of
S
component pans and/or by improved ease of assembly. Another and related objeq of the
h present invention is to provide a dispenser package and method of manufacture!having
improved visual impact in terms of blending the closure structurally and by contour more closely with the design of the package container body. Yet another object of the present invention ti to provide a dispenser package and method of manufacture having a low-profile closure and. consequently, increased panel area, for application of labeling to the container body.
A dispenser package for a fluent product in accordance with one aspect of the present invention includes an integrally molded plastic container having a body with a sidewall, a closed bottom, and a top wall with at least one opening offset from the axis of the container body. A circumferential exterior channel extends around the sidewall of the container body adjacent to the top wall A closure his a base wall, a peripheral skirt, and a rib that extends radially inwardly from the skirt for slidable receipt in the channel to mount the closure on the

container body for rotation about the axis of the body The closure has an opening for registry with the offset opening in the top wall of the container body for dispensing product from the package. Detent elements are provided on the base wall of the closure and the top wall of the container for rdeasably locking the closure to the container with the opening in the closure in registry with the opening in the container for dispensing product
In the preferred embodiments in accordance with this 3spect of the invention, these detent elements include an elevated plateau on the top wall oi the container sunounding the dispensing opening, and an annular collar depending from the closure top wall surrounding die opening in the top wall for releasable locking registry with the plateau on the container. The plateau preferably has an angulated sidewall for camming the collar into and out of locking registry with the plateau as die closure is rotated on the container. The closure preferably also has a lug in the form of a depression in the base wall angularly spaced from the opening in the closure base wall for releasable locking engagement with the opening in the top wall of the container body to lock the closure with respect to the container body with the opening in the closure out of registry with the dispensing opening in die container In this way, the closure may be releasabty locked widi respect to the container body bodi with die
openings in registry for dispensing product, and with the openings out of registry to prevent
i dispensing of product
i. In some preferred embodiments of the invention, the container top wa|l has an
opening centered on the axis of the container body that is of larger diameter than tne offset
dispensing opening This central opening is surrounded by a wall that extend^ axially
outwardly from rhe container top wall terminating in a radial bead, and the closure b^se wall
has an axia)ly and radially inwardly extending bead for sliding receipt by snap fit over the radial bead on the top wall The closure base wall preferably further includes an annular wall

spaced radially inwardly from the bead fur sliding internal sealing engagement with the axial
wall on the container top wall A check valve may be mounted in the dispensing opening in
i
the container top wall. The dispensing opening in the closure may extend axially through the
if
closure base wall, or may comprise an axial portion for registry with the dispensing Opening
!
in the container top wall and a radial portion that extends through the closure base wafl to the skin. A circumferential array of axial ribs may be provided around the outer surfac*j of the closure skin to facilitate gripping and rotation of the closure on the container body
A dispenser package for a fluent product in accordance with another aspect of the present invention includes an integrally molded plastic container having a body with a sidewaJl on a central axis, a closed bottom and a top wall having a first opening centered on (he axis and at least one second opening offset from the axis. A closure has a base wall and a peripheral skirt The base wall of the closure has an annular axially extending wall with interlocking means for engaging the first opening in the top wall of the container body to mount the closure on the container, and means for selectively opening and closing the dispensing opening in the container body. The closure may be non-rotatably mounted on the container body and include a flip-top hinge to the closure. The flip-top closure may cover the top of the container body, or may be mounted in a recessed pocket on the top of the container bodv for closely matching the peripheral and axial conrours of the container body The flip
top preferably has a plug for engagement within die dispensing opening on the container body
i
top wall to seal the dispenser opening when the flip top is closed. Alternatively, the closure may be rotatably mounted on the container body, with an opening in the base wall of the closure offset from the axis of the container body for selective registry with the dispensing opening in the container body as previously discussed.

?r*e, l>e*fription of the Drawings
The invention, together with additional objects, features and advantages thereof* will be best understood from the following description, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings in which.
FIG. I is a broken perspective view of a dispenser package for fluent products in accordance with one presently preferred embodiment of the invention,
FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken substantially along the line 2-2 in FIG l;
FIG. 3 is a fragmentary sectional view of the top portion of FIG 2 on an enlarged scale showing the dispenser package with the dispensing openings in registry,
FIG- 3A is a view similar to that of FIG 3 but showing the dispensing openings closed;
FIG. 4 is a fragmentary perspective view of a dispenser package in accordance with a modified embodiment of the invention;
i
FIG 5 is a fragmentary perspective sectional view taken substantially along the
line 5-3 in FIG 4;
! i
FIG 6 is a fragmentary perspective vjew of a dispenser package in accordance
with another embodiment of the invention;
FIG. 7 is a fragmentary sei;ttonal view taken substantially along the lii¾fc 7-7 in
FIG 6,
FIG 8 is a broken perspective1 of a dispenser package in accordance with yet
another embodiment of the invention,
IIG. 9 is a fiag?neiuaiy sertional view taken substantially along the line 9-9 in FIG 8,

FIG 10 is a fragmentajy perspective view of a dispenser package in accordance with a farther emhodiment of the invention,
FIG 11 is a fragmentary sectional view taken substantially along the line 11*11 in FIG. 10;
FIG, 12 is a fragmentary perspective view of a dispenser package in accordance with anothet embodiment of the invention,
FIG. 13 is a fragmentajy sectional view taken substantially along the line 13-13 in FIG 12.
FIG 14 is a sectional view taken substantially along the line 14-14 in FIG. 13,
FIG 15 is a fragmentary perspective view of a further embodiment of the invention;
FIG 16 is a fragmentary sectional view taken substantially along the line 16-16 in FIG 15,
FIG 17 is a sectional view taken substantially along the line 17 17 in FIG. 16,
FIG. 18 is a fragmentary perspective view of another embodiment of the invention;
FIG. 19 is a sectional view taken substantially along the line 19-19 in FIG. 18.
FIG. 20 is a fragmentary perspective view a further embodiment of the invention; and
FIG 2Us a sectional view taken substantially along the line 21-21 in FIG 20

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments
FIGS 1-3A illustrate a dispenser package 30 for fluent products, such as cosmetics and lotions, m accordance with one presently preferred embodiment of the invention Package 30 includes an integrally molded plastic container 32 having a flexible body with a sidewail 34, a closed bottom 36 and a top wall 38. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-3A. sidewail 34 is cylindrical throughout its length. However, it will be understood that, in accordance with this aspect of the invention, only the upper portion of the
r I
interior body that rotatably receives the closure need be round, preferably cylindrical'. The lower portion of the body can be rectangular, oval or any other desired shape. Top vvall 38
tapers upwardly and inwardly* having an enlarged circular center opening 40 coaxial with the
i
axis of sidewail 34, and at least one circular opening 42 offset from the axis of the si A closure 50 is rotatably mounted on container 32 to form dispenser package 30 Closure 50 includes a circular base wall 52 from which a peripheral skirt 54 integrally depends A circumferential array of axially extending ribs are formed on the outer periphery of skirt 54 for enhanced gripping to rotate closure 50 on container 32. Base wall 52 of closure 50 is parallel to and uniformly spaced horn top wall 38 of container 32. A circumferentially continuous rib or bead 56 extends radially inwardly from the free end of skin 54 remote from

base wall 52, and is received by sliding snap fit within channel 43 on sidewall 34 A ar<:umferentia continuous annular wait depends from the central portion of closure base wall surrounding and bead in assembly a circumferennajly rib or projects radially inwardly free end is received by snap fit> assembly beneath bead 44 on wall 41 A second annular wall 60 depends from base wall 52 of closure 50 spaced radially inwardly from wall 57 so as to be received in sliding engagement within the inside diameter of wall 41 and form a plug seal with respect to wall 41 A circular dispensing opening 62 is formed in closure base wall 52 at a position radially offset from the axis of closure 50 by. an amount corresponding to the offset of opening 42 in container top wall 38 from the axis of container sidewall 34 Opening 62 is surrounded and defined by an annular collar 64 that extends inwardly from closure base wall 52. The rounded free edge of collar 64 lies in a plane parallel to container top wall 38, as best seen in FIG 3A Opening 62 and wall 61 have an inside diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of conical wall 48 of plateau 46 in container top wall 38 A lug 66 is formed as a part-spherical depression in base wall 52 of closure 50 at a position radially offset from the axis of closure 50 by a distance corresponding to the radial offset of plateau 46 and opening 42 in container 32 The outer diameter of closure skirt 54 is the same -as the outer diameter of sidewall 34 so that thej closure* periphery blends with the container sidewall
Container 32 and closure 50 preferably are of plastic composition of any [suitable
l
type,1 and may be formed in any suitable molding operation. It is presently preferred that container 32 be of polyethylene composition, and that closure 50 be of polypiibpylene composition. With closure 50 separate fiom container 32, container 32 is filled with'product through center opening 40 defined by wall 41 After filling, closure 50 is assembled to container 32 by snapping bead 58 of wall 57 over bead 44 of wall 41, and by snapping bead 56 of peripheral wall 54 into channel 43 of container sidewall 34. For shipment and storage,

closure 50 is circumferenually positioned with respect to container 32 such that depression 66 on closure base will 52 registers and aligns with dispensing opening 42 in container top wall 38, as shown in FIG. 3A, thereby closing the dispenser package. To dispense product from wiihm the package, closure 50 is rotated about the axis of container 32 Initial rotation cams depression 66 out of opening 42 and down conical wail 48 of plateau 46 as container top wall 38 flexes axiaily inwardly. Continued rotation brings the lower edge of wall 64 into carjiming engagement with conical wall 48 of plateau 46, whereby wall 38 is cammed downwardly until
plateau 46 ahgns or registers with closure wall 64, At this point, cooperative engagement
between plateau 46 on container top wall 38 and wall 64 on closure base wall 52 reliably locks the closure in posirion so (hat product may be dispensed from within the package by squeezing the side wall of comainer 34, The sidewall 34 of container 32 is sufficiently thin to permit such flexure, and leassumes the initial configuration illustrated in the drawings when the squeezing forces have been released. To close package 30, closure 50 is rotated in the opposite direction, initially flexing plateau 46 inwardly and moving closure wall 64 out of registry therewith, and subsequently again flexing plateau 46 inwardly and moving depression 66 into sealing iegistry with dispensing opening 42
FIGS. 4-21 illustrate various modified embodiments of the invention, in which identical reference numerals indicate identical components, and reference numerals with a letter suffix indicate modified but functionally similar components FIGS 4 and 5 illustrate a dispenser package 70, which is basically similar to package 30 of FIGS 1 -3A except in the configuration of the dispenser opening 62a in closure 50a. Closure dispensing opening 62a has an axial portion defined by an annular closure wall 64a, and a portion 72 that extends radially through base wall 52a of closure 50a. Thus, product is dispensed radially,in the embodiment 70 of FIGS 4 and 5 through the peripheral wall 54a of closure 50a.

FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate a dispenser package 74 in which dispensing opening 62b and detent depression 66b are on diametrically opposed sides of the axis of closure 50b, rather than at 90" spacing from each other as in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-5. Top wall 38b of
container Mb »m-hides an upwardly facing pocket 76 for registry with depression 66b in the
upon µo*iuuu ol pocket l•\ illusltatcd lit f•'IG /, and foi icgistiy with wall G•lb tn the closed position of the dispenser Thus, both plateau 46b surrounding dispensing opening 42b in container 32b and pocket 76 cooperate with both depression 62b and annular wall 64b surrounding dispensing opening 62b in closure 50b releasably to lock the closure in both the dispensing and non-dispensing positions of the closure- Base wall 52b of closure 50b has a peripheral skjn 54b that is either spaced from or in sliding engagement with the opposed a**al surface of wall 38b. Thus, closure 50b is retained on container 32b solely by the interlocking beads 44, 58 at center opening 40.
FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate a dispenser package 78 of generally oval cross section, as distinguished from the circular cross section of the dispenser packages illustrated in, FIGS. 1-7 Closure 50c is rotatabiy secured to annular wall 41 of container top wall 38c; in the
manner previously described. A resilienr check valve 80 is caprured by a ring 82 that snaps
i
into a beaded depression 84 rhat defines the dispensing opening in container top wall 38£. The
i
upper surface of valve-retaining ring 82 is flat. A depression 66c is again formed in closure
\ 50c at a position diametrically opposed to dispensing opening 62. However, wall 64 dbfining
dispensing opening 62, and depression 66 do not function as detent locking meansi>jin this
embodiment, bui merely register with ring V either to open dispensing valve 84 in the position
i1 shown in FIG. 9, or to close the dispensing opening in the position 180° from that shown in
FIGS 8 and 9 In this embodiment, the peripheral edge of closure skirt 54c registers with a
shoulder 86 defined around the periphery of container sidewall 34c releasably to hold closure
50c in either die onen or the closed nosirion.• When the closure is rotated with respect to the

container ooay, inc container 5iuew&n ue*cs uuwuw I
until the closure is rotated 180*. at which point the container sidewall flexes outwardly again
releasably to lock the closure in position. Valve 80 may be of any suitable configuration One
i presently preferred embodiment of valve 80 is illustrated in US Application Sena) No
l 08/746.521 Tiled November 12, 1996 and incorporated herein by reference.
FIGS 10 11 illustrate a dispenser package 88 in accordance with yet another
I*
embodiment of the invention Sidewall 34d of container 32d has circumferentially contiguous groove 43 as in die embodiments of FIGS 1-5. Top wall 38d of container 32d has dispensing opening 42 on plateau 46 as in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 -3A, and has a second opening 42d on a plateau 46d diametrically spaced from opening 42 and plateau 46. There is one dispensing opening 62 in closure 50d defined by an inwardly extending annular wall 64, and three depressions 66 at 90; spacing from each other and from opening 62 Container 32d does not have a ictiici fill opening 40 as in the pnor embodiments, but is filled with product through one of the offset openings 42, 42d, Thus, closure 50d can be locked in the open position illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11 by registry of wall 64 with plateau 46 or 46d and the diametrically opposed depression 66 with the diametrically opposed plateau, and may be relea5ably locked in the closed position by registry of the other depressions 66 with the openings 42, 42d. Thus, package 88 has die advantage that either one of the openings 42, 42d can function as the dispensing opening so that, from the closed position, closure 52 can be rotated 90° in either direction for dispensing, and thereafter rotated 90 degrees in either direction to close the dispensing opening
FIGS. 12-21 illustrate various embodiments of the invention in which the closure comprises a flip-top closure, in which a portion is pivoted upwardly on a hinge to expose nr open the dispensing opening, and thereafter pivoted downwardly about the hinge to close \he dispensing opening. FIGS 12-14 illustrate a dispenser package 90 that includes a

top wall and side wall of the container Closure 106 includes a base wall 52f and a peripheral skin 54 f, and a Hip-top portion 93f connected to base wall 52f by hinges 92 as illustrated in FIGS 14 and 17. In the same way, closure 110 of package 104 in FIGS. 20 and 21 includes a base wall 52g with a peripheral skirt 54g, and a flip top 93g connected thereto by hinges Closure 110 is seated on a ledge IQ6g formed in container top wall 38g Although the embodiments of FIGS. 12-21 illustrate a telescoping snap-fa arrangement in which a wall 57e or 57f is received within an annular wall 4le or 4If, it is also contemplated ih these embodiments that the closure mounting arrangement could be as at 57, 41 in FIGS 3, 5, 7 and

CLAIMS
A dispenser package For a fluent product, which comprises
an integrally molded plastic container (32 or 32d) having a flexible body with a
5idewall (34 or 34d) having a central axis, a closed bottom (36), a top wall (38 or 38d) with at
least one opening (42) offset front said axis, and a circumferential exterior channel (43) extending
around said sidewall adjacent to said top wall, and
a closure (50. 50a or 5Od) having a base wall (52, 52a or 52d), a peripheral skirt,
(54, 54a or 54d) and a rib (56) extending radially inwardly from said skirt for slidablr receipt in

The package set forth in claim 2 wherein said detent means comprises a second opening f 42d) in said top wall angularly spaced from said at least one opening (42), and 3 lug (66) on said base wall angularly spaced from said Opening in said closure for registry with said second opening in said top wall when said opening in said closure registers with said at least one opening in said top wall
4.
The package set forth in claim 3 wherein said at least one opening (42) and said second opening (42d) in said top wall are at equal radial offset from said axis, such that said lug (66) on said closure may cooperate with said at lea¾t one opening in said top wall for relejasably locking said closure to said container with said opening in said closure out of registry w-jjth said
I1!
at least one opening in said top wall.
5. The package set forth in claim 4 wherein said lug (66)on said closure comprises a depression in said base wall.
6 The package set forth in claim 5 wherein said base wall includes a plurality of said depressions (66) for releasably locking said closure to said container in a plurality of angularly spaced positions
7. The package set forth in claim 2 wherein said detent means comprises an elevated
plateau (46) on said top wall of said container surrounding said at least one opening (42), and an annular collar (64 or 64a) on said closure top wall for rcleasable locking registry with said plateau

The package set forth in claim / wherein said plateau (46) has an angulated
>idewatl for camming said collar (64 or 64a) into and out of registry with said plateau as said
closure is rotated on said container
9.
[he package set forth m claim H wherein said collar (64 or 64a) has a rounded
edge remote from said base wall
10.
The package set forth in claim 9 wherein said closure has a lug (66) rhat extends
from said base wall angularly spaced from said at least one opening for relcasable locking
engagement with said opening in said top wall to lock said closure to said container with said at
least one opening in said top wall and said opening in said base wall out of registry
11
The package set forth in claim 10 wherein said lug (66) on said closure comprises
a depression in said base wall
12.
The package set forth in claim 1 wherein said container top wall (38) has an
'i opening (40) centered on said axis that is of larger diameter than said at least one opening (42)
offset from said axis.

The package set forth in claim 12 wherein said central opening (40) is surrounded
i
by a wall (41) that extends axially outwardly from said top wall terminating in a radial bead (44), and wherein said closure base wall has an axially and radially inwardly extending bead (57) for slide receipt by snap fn over said radial bead on said top wall,
14
( The package set forth in claim 13 wherein said closure base wall further irlcludes an annular wall (60) spaced radially inwardly from said bead (57) tor sliding internal receiptfjwithin said axial wall (41) on said top wall.
15. The package set forth in any preceding claim 1-14 further comprising a check valve (80) mounted in said at least one opening (42) in said top wall.
16. The package set forth in any preceding claim 1-14 wherein said opening (62a) in said closure base wall comprises an axial portion for registry wiih said at least one opening (42)
in said container top wall, and a radial portion (72) that extends through said base wall to said skirt.
17 The package set forth in any preceding claim further comprising a circumferential array of outer surface ribs extending around said peripheral skirt (54) to facilitate rotation of said closure on said container.

A dispenser package tor a fluent product, which comprises: an integrally molded plastic container (32 or 32b or 32c or 32e or 32f) havina a flexible body with 3 sidewaH (34 or 34b or 34c) having a central axis, a closed bottom (36) and a top wall (38 or 38b or 38c or 38e or 38f) having a first opening (40 or 4Oe) centered on said axis and a least one second opening (42 or 42e or 42b) offset from Said axis, and
a closure (50 or 50a or 50b or 50c or 5Oe or 108 or 110) that has a base wall and a peripheral skirt, .said base -A all having an annular axially extending wall f57 or 57e or 57f) with interlocking means (58) for engaging said first opening in said top wall to mount said closure on said container, and means (62 or 62a or 62b or 93 or 93f or 93g) for selectively opening and closing said at least one opening in said container.
19.
i
The package set forth in IS wherein said first opening (40) in said container is
i
surrounded by an annuiai wall (41) that extends axially outwardly from said top wall andja radial
1 bead (44) that extends outwardly from $ajd annular wall, and wherein said interlocking meJtns (58)
i comprises a radially inwardly extending bead on said annular axially extending wail (57); of said
closure for receipt over said bead on said top wall.
20 The package set forth in claim 19 wherein said closure has a second annular wall (60) of a diameter for close fit within said annular wall on said top wall
21. The package set tenth in claim 18 wherein said closure (5Oe) is non-rotatably mounted on said container, and wherein said selectively opening means comprises a flip top (93 or 93f or 93g) hinged to ¾aid closure.

The package set forth in claim 21 wherein said flip top (93 or 93 for 93 g)'has a
i
plug (91) for internal sealing registry with said second opening (42e) in said container wheii said
! *
Hip tup is closed
23. The package set forth in claim 21 wherein said interlocking means (58) comprises a radially outwardly extending rib in said annular axially extending wall for snap-fit receipt through said first opening (4Oe) in said top wall.
?A The package set forth in claim 71 wherein said container top wall (38f or 38g) has a recessed portion (106 or 1O6g) in which said first opening, said second opening and said closure (108 or 110) are disposed.
25. The package set forth in claim 18 wherein said closure (50 or 50a or 50b or 50c)
is rotatably mounted on said container, and wherein said selectively opening means comprises an opening (6?n or (CJ or 6?b) in said base wall ufftet from said axis from selective registry with said second opening (42 or 42b) in said top wall.
26. The package set forth in claim 25 further comprising detent means (46,64 or 46, 64a or 46b, 62b or 66b, 76 or 54c, 86) on said base wall of said closure and said top wall of said container for rcleasablv locking said closure to said container with said opening in said closure in registry with said opening in said container.

1 he p;K:kage set forth in claim 26 wherein said detent means comprises an elevated plateau (46) on said lop wall of said container surrounding said at least one opening (42), and an annular collar (64 or 64a) on said closure top wall for releasable locking registry with said plateau.
28 The package set forth in claim 27 wherein said plateau (46) has an angulated sidewall for camming said collar into and out of registry with said plateau as said closure Is rotated on said container
29 The package set forth in claim 28 wherein said collar (64 or 64a) has an edge
remote from said base wall.
30. The package set forth in claim 29 wherein said closure has a lug (66 or 66b) that
extends from said base wall angularly spaced from said at least one opening for releasable locking engagement with said opening in said top wall to lock said closure to said container with s^id at least one opening in said top wall and said opening in said base wall out of registry.
31. The package set forth hi claim 30 wherein said lug (66 or 66b) on said closure comprises a depression in said base wall

The package set forth in claim 26 wherein said detent means comprises a second opening (4?d) in said top wall angularly spaced from said at least one opening ('42), and a lug (66) on said base wall angulaiiv spaced from said opening (42) in said closuie for registry with said »econd opening in said top wall when said opening in said closure registers with said at least one
wprning in .s;wd top v-ull
33. The package set forth in claim 32 wherein said at least one opening (42) and said second opening (4?.d) in said top wall are at equal radial offset from said axis, such thar said lug (66) on said closure may cooperate with said at least one opening in said top wall for releasably locking said closure to said container with said opening in said closure out of registry with said at least one opening in said top wall.
34.
The package set forth in claim 33 wherein said lug (66)on said closure comprises
a depression in said base wall.
35. The package set forth in claim 34 wherein said base wall includes a plurality of said depressions (66) for releasably locking said closure to said container in a plurality or ai>gmany spaced positions.

A method of making a dispenser package for a fluent product, which comprises
lll« ItCp• Of
*
id) integrally molding aplaiuc cuutamci (J2 ur M\i) having u ttexible bu (b) providing a closure (50, 50c or 5Od) having a base wall (52, 52aor52d),
a peripheral skirt (54, 54a or 54d), and a rib {56) extending radially inwardly from said skirt for
slidable,receipt in said channel to mount said closure on said container for rotation about said axis,
said closure having an opening (62 or 62a)for registry with said at least one opening in said top
wall for dispensing product from said package, and
'? (c) mounting said closure on said container with said rib in sliding snap-fit+
*
within said channel.
37.
A method of making a dispenser package for a fluent product, which comprises
i
the steps of;
i ;
(a) integrally molding a plastic container (32 or 32b or 32c or 32e 6r 32f) having a flexible body with a sidewall (34 or 34b or 34c) having a central axis, a closed fyottom (36) and a top wall (38 or 38b or 38c or 38e or 38f) having a first operung centered on said axis and at least one second opening (42 or 42b or 42e) offset from said axis,
(b) providing a closure (50 or 50a or 50b or 50c or 50c or 108 or 110) that has a base wall and a peripheral skirt, said base wall having an annular axially extending wall (57 or 57e or 57f) with interlocking means for engaging said first opening, and means (62 or 62a or

62b or 93 or 93f or 93g) for selectively opening and closing said at least one opening in'said
I*
container, and
(c) mounting said closure on said container by engaging said interlocking means with said top wall
38.' An integrally molded plastic container (32 or 32d) having a flexible body with a sidewall (34 or 34d) having a central axis, a closed bottom (36), a top wall (38 or 38d) with at least one opening (42) offset from said axis, and a circumferential exterior radially outwardly opening channel (43) extending around said sidewall adjacent to said top wall.
39.
A closure (50, 50a or 5Od) having a base wall (52 or 52a or 52d'j, a peripheral skirt n4 or 54a or 54d), and a rib (56) extending radially inwardly from said skirt for slidable receipt in a Qknnel on a container to mount said closuie on the container for rotation about an axis, said closure having an opening (62 or 62a) for registry with an opening in the container for dispensing
product from said package.
40. An integrally molded plastic container (32 or 32b or 32c or 32e or 32f) having a flexible body with a sidewall (34 or 34b or 34c) having a central axis, a closed bottom (36) and a top w¾ll (38 Or 38b or 38c or 38e or 38f) having a first opening (40 or 4Oe) centered on said axis and at least one second opening (42a 42b or 42e) offset from said axis, said first opening in said container being surrounded by an annular wall (41) that extends axial Iy outwardly froto said top wall and a radial bead (44) that extends outwardly from said annular wall.

A closure (50 or 50a or 50b or 50c or 5Oe or 108 or 110) ihat has a base wall ¾nd a peripheral skirl, said base wall having an annular axially extending wall (57 or 57e or 57t) with interlocking means (58) for engaging an opening in a top wall of a container to mount said closure
on said container, and means (62 or 62a or 62b or 93 or 93f or 93g) for selectively opening and closing said at least one opening in said container, said interlocking means comprising a radially inwardly extending bead on said annular axially extending wall of said closure.
42. A dispenser package for a fluent product substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings,
43* A' method of making a dispenser package for a fluent product substantially as herein described with reference toj the accompanying drawings.

Documents:

1215-mas-1999-abstract.pdf

1215-mas-1999-assignement.pdf

1215-mas-1999-claims filed.pdf

1215-mas-1999-claims granted.pdf

1215-mas-1999-correspondnece-others.pdf

1215-mas-1999-correspondnece-po.pdf

1215-mas-1999-description(complete)filed.pdf

1215-mas-1999-description(complete)granted.pdf

1215-mas-1999-drawings.pdf

1215-mas-1999-form 1.pdf

1215-mas-1999-form 26.pdf

1215-mas-1999-form 3.pdf

1215-mas-1999-form 5.pdf

1215-mas-1999-other documents.pdf

abs-1215-mas-1999.jpg

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Patent Number

213875

Indian Patent Application Number

1215/MAS/1999

PG Journal Number

13/2008

Publication Date

31-Mar-2008

Grant Date

22-Jan-2008

Date of Filing

22-Dec-1999

Name of Patentee

GRAHAM PACKAGING PLASTIC PRODUCTS INC

Applicant Address

2401 PLEASANT VALLEY ROAD, YORK, PENNSYLVANIA 17402,

Inventors:

#	Inventor's Name	Inventor's Address
1	CRAIG E. MCCLEAN	2391 CURECANTI COURT, KANNAPOLIS, NC 28083,
2	E. HARMAN	25829 CHERBOURG LANE, PERRYSBURG, OH 43551,

PCT International Classification Number

B6 7D 003/00

PCT International Application Number

N/A

PCT International Filing date

PCT Conventions:

#	PCT Application Number	Date of Convention	Priority Country
1	09/219,142	1998-12-22	U.S.A.