CN107074410A - Distribute closure member - Google Patents

Abstract

A dispensing closure comprising a closure body defining a dispensing orifice, an openable cover cooperating with the closure body to provide access to the dispensing orifice. The openable lid defines a first dispensing portion and a second dispensing portion. A first openable shutter cooperates with the openable lid to provide access to the first dispensing portion. A second openable shutter cooperates with the openable lid to provide access to the second dispensing portion. The dispensing closure is constructed and arranged for use with a container containing particulate material for dispensing some or all of the particulate material.

Description

dispensing closures

Background technique

As represented by the disclosed exemplary embodiments, the present invention generally relates to a dispensing closure for dispensing a particulate material, including a powder, from a container. More particularly, the present invention relates to such dispensing closures having hinged reclosable flaps, as represented by the disclosed exemplary embodiments. Typical prior art configurations of dispensing closures for particulate matter exhibit a pattern of larger dispensing orifices combined with smaller dispensing orifices. The intended use is to use the smaller dispensing orifice for shaking the particulate matter from the container when the expected amount to be dispensed is small and when a somewhat even distribution of the particulate matter may be desired. A larger dispensing orifice allows for scooping or scooping of particulate matter from within the container, or a type that allows the larger orifice to be used as a pouring spout.

Also typical prior art constructions use formed plastic designs that couple the reclosable flaps to their supporting base structure by means of living hinges. Depending on the desired or selected method of dispensing the particulate matter (by shaking (using the smaller orifice), or by scooping, shoveling or pouring (using the larger orifice)), the user then selectively opens the two One of the baffles.

In one type of prior art construction, the larger orifice and the plurality of smaller orifices are substantially coplanar. In another prior art construction type, a larger orifice and multiple smaller orifices are axially stacked such that lifting or opening the hinged flap associated with the multiple smaller orifices exposes or opens the larger the orifice.

In one type of prior art construction, two single orifices (larger and spaced apart) are arranged generally coplanar with a plurality of smaller orifices. The coplanar configuration of these orifices requires greater surface area and is typically used with containers that have a generally rectangular shape in lateral section, similar to that seen with certain condiments. "Greater surface area" refers to a generally circular or cylindrical closure body in which the orifices can be arranged in an axially stacked or overlapping manner. Given the limited capabilities offered by prior art constructions, there is a need for improvement in this area in terms of greater versatility.

Contents of the invention

A dispensing closure for a container is provided with multiple dispensing options based on different openings and orifices selectively accessible by the user. One of the features of the exemplary embodiment not shown in the prior art is the use of two patterns of smaller orifices for shaking out particulate matter, provided in combination with a single, larger orifice that The large orifice is used to scoop or shovel or pour out particulate matter stored in the container. The expanded capabilities that are part of the disclosed embodiments provide improvements in versatility. Two possible patterns of smaller orifices for shaking out particulate matter include a first pattern having a first orifice size and a second pattern with corresponding orifices larger than the first orifice size. There are preferably different orifice sizes for the two sets of orifices, but the orifices of each set of orifices may be of the same size. As represented by the disclosed exemplary embodiments, the three main dispensing options provided by the present invention are unique and non-obvious improvements over the prior art for this type of dispensing closure.

As represented by the disclosed exemplary embodiments, the present invention provides a more compact construction compared to a generally coplanar rectangular cover construction of three openings or pattern of openings. Due to the axial placement or overlapping of the multiple covers and/or cover baffles of the present invention, arranging these three distribution options in a coplanar manner requires a larger base size or surface area than is required by the present invention. Even with this more compact configuration, the dispensing closures described herein can be produced as an integral, one-piece plastic part, preferably by moulding. While a one-piece, one-piece plastic construction is preferred, it is possible to make the separate parts into separate pieces and then use the "snap-fit" construction of these pieces (such as for the hinged locations for the two top hinged position of the inner cover) snap together. These individual parts of unitary, one-piece construction are described herein.

Further forms, objects, features, aspects, benefits, advantages and embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

Description of drawings

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a dispensing closure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a front elevational view of the dispensing closure of Figure 1 .

3 is a rear elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 1 .

4 is a left side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 1 .

5 is a right side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 1 .

6 is a top plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 1 .

7 is a bottom plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 1 .

7A is a bottom plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 1 with multiple sealing rings.

Figure 8 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 1 with one openable flap hinged open.

9 is a front elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 8 .

10 is a rear elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 8 .

11 is a left side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 8 .

12 is a right side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 8 .

13 is a top plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 8 .

14 is a bottom plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 8 .

Figure 15 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 1 with the other openable flap hinged open.

16 is a front elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 15. FIG.

17 is a rear elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 15. FIG.

18 is a left side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 15 .

19 is a right side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 15. FIG.

20 is a top plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 15 .

21 is a bottom plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 15. FIG.

Figure 22 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 1 with the hinged inner lid in an open position.

23 is a front elevation view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 22. FIG.

24 is a rear elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 22. FIG.

25 is a left side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 22. FIG.

26 is a right side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 22. FIG.

27 is a top plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 22. FIG.

28 is a bottom plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 22. FIG.

Figure 29 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 1 with both flaps in a hinged open position.

30 is a front elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 29. FIG.

31 is a rear elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 29. FIG.

32 is a left side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 29 .

33 is a right side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 29 .

34 is a top plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 29 .

35 is a bottom plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 29. FIG.

Figure 36 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 1 with both flaps and inner lid in a hinged open position.

37 is a front elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 36. FIG.

38 is a rear elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 36. FIG.

39 is a left side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 36. FIG.

40 is a right side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 36. FIG.

41 is a top plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 36. FIG.

42 is a bottom plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 36. FIG.

43 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 1 with selected portions in phantom to depict options for design variations.

44 is a front elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 43. FIG.

45 is a rear elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 43. FIG.

46 is a left side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 43. FIG.

47 is a right side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 43. FIG.

48 is a top plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 43. FIG.

49 is a bottom plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 43. FIG.

Figure 50 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 43 with one openable flap hinged open.

Figure 51 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 43 with the other openable flap hinged open.

Figure 52 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 43 with the hinged inner lid in an open position.

53 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 1 with selected portions in phantom to depict options for design variations.

54 is a front elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 53. FIG.

55 is a rear elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 53. FIG.

56 is a left side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 53. FIG.

57 is a right side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 53. FIG.

58 is a top plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 53. FIG.

59 is a bottom plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 53. FIG.

Figure 60 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 53 with one openable flap hinged open.

Figure 61 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 53 with the other openable flap hinged open.

Figure 62 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 53 with the hinged inner lid in an open position.

63 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 1 with selected portions in phantom to depict options for design variations.

64 is a front elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 63. FIG.

65 is a rear elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 63. FIG.

66 is a left side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 63. FIG.

67 is a right side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 63. FIG.

68 is a top plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 63. FIG.

FIG. 69 is a bottom plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 63. FIG.

Figure 70 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 63 with one openable flap hinged open.

Figure 71 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 63 with the other openable flap hinged open.

Figure 72 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 63 with the hinged inner lid in an open position.

73 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 1 with selected portions in phantom to depict options for design variations.

74 is a front elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 73. FIG.

75 is a rear elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 73. FIG.

76 is a left side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 73. FIG.

77 is a right side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 73. FIG.

78 is a top plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 73. FIG.

79 is a bottom plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 73. FIG.

Figure 80 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 73 with one openable flap hinged open.

Figure 81 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 73 with the other openable flap hinged open.

Figure 82 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 73 with the hinged inner lid in an open position.

83 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 1 with selected portions in phantom to depict options for design variations.

84 is a front elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 83. FIG.

85 is a rear elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 83. FIG.

86 is a left side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 83. FIG.

87 is a right side elevational view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 83. FIG.

88 is a top plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 83. FIG.

89 is a bottom plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 83. FIG.

Figure 90 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 83 with one openable flap hinged open.

Figure 91 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 83 with the other openable flap hinged open.

Figure 92 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of Figure 83 with the hinged inner lid in an open position.

93 is a perspective view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 1 with selected portions in phantom to depict options for design variations.

FIG. 94 is a bottom plan view of the dispensing closure of FIG. 93. FIG.

detailed description

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will however be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the described embodiments, as well as any further applications of the principles of the invention as described herein, are believed to occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention pertains as would normally occur to one skilled in the art. One embodiment of the invention is shown in detail, but it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that some features not relevant to the invention may not be shown for the sake of clarity.

Referring to Figures 1-7, there is illustrated a dispensing closure 20 for use with some type of container (not shown) for dispensing particulate material or substance stored or received within the container. References to particulate matter or particulate material are intended to include particles of various sizes and compositions, and are intended to include powders, which are only finer particles. One use of the dispensing closure 20 is for dispensing condiments from within the container to another location, such as food being prepared and/or served. In a preferred or exemplary embodiment, closure 20 is injection molded from a plastic material, and essentially any plastic suitable for the injection molding process is acceptable. An acceptable choice, according to exemplary embodiment preferences, is to use polypropylene. Although the closure 20 is described and illustrated herein as an integral, one-piece component, it is contemplated that the inner lid and the two flaps could be each made as separate components, and then use a snap-fit mechanism or structure (such as with The hinge point for hinged inner lid to the body of the closure and the hinge point for hinged each of the two flaps to the inner lid) are snapped together.

The unitary construction of the closure 20 includes a closure body 22 which is preferably generally cylindrical in shape, but is not limited or constrained by this shape. For example, if the closure is applied to the container (actually to the neck opening or dispensing opening of the container) by a snap or press fit or press-in configuration, the shape of the body 22 must be designed accordingly based on the container shape requirements. The generally cylindrical shape is the shape corresponding to the threaded assembly of the closure to the neck of the container, but any kind of container shape and closure shape is considered part of the exemplary embodiments. In this exemplary embodiment, when this type of assembly is selected based on container selection, the inner surface 22a of the closure body is configured with threads 22b for threading with the externally threaded neck of the selected container. join. It is contemplated that the closure 20 may be snap-fitted onto or into the neck or opening of a container, and that this will provide virtually any type of container and closure shape.

The unitary construction of the closure 20 also includes an inner lid 24 , a first flap 26 and a second flap 28 . The substantially circular inner lid 24 is hinged to the closure body 22 at a hinged position by means of a living hinge 30 . Accordingly, the inner lid 22 is openable and cooperates with the closure body 22 to enable access to particulate matter received within the container. The closed inner lid 24 is secured to the closure body 22 in the closed state by means of an interference fit at the location of a finger detent 34 between the two structural parts, which allows snap closure of the inner lid to the closure Subject 22. A finger tab 34 is included as part of the structure of the closure body 22 and inner cap 24, which creates a clearance space 36 for the user to insert a fingernail or thumbnail or other implement (as only some options) to access and release the Snap-fit (interference fit) structure between inner cap 24 and closure body 22 .

As illustrated in Figure 7A, the inner surface 82 of the inner cover 24 preferably includes a plurality of seal rings 24a. A sealing ring 24a is only shown in FIG. 7A as a further option for dispensing closure 20 . While potentially included in any of the disclosed exemplary embodiments, these seal rings 24a are not shown in any other views, including FIG. - Other embodiments of Figure 94.

When the liner is used to seal the neck opening of a container associated with the dispensing closure 20, the liner may be supplied with the dispensing closure 20 for ease and efficiency in handling and shipping. It is envisioned that suitable liners for the container type and particulate matter type will be shipped with the corresponding dispensing closure, floating freely within the body of the dispensing closure. In completing the packaging of the particulate material, the liner is applied by the packer over the neck opening of the container.

The first flap 26 is hinged to the inner lid 24 by a living hinge 38 . Accordingly, the first flap 26 is openable and cooperates with the inner lid 24 to provide access to the particulate matter within the container. The closed first flap 26 is secured to the inner lid 24 (in this closed state) by means of an interference fit (snap fit) conceptually similar to the snap-fit arrangement between the inner lid 24 and the closure body 22. ). The interference fit is positioned adjacent the upper edge of the finger tab 42 . A finger tab 42 is included as part of the structure of the inner cover 24 and first bezel 26, which creates a clearance space 44 for the user to insert a fingernail or thumbnail or other implement (as only some options) to access and release A snap-fit (interference fit) structure between the first baffle 26 and the inner cover 24 . Apart from the hinge 38, the first flap 26 has a substantially uniform thickness throughout in order to obtain the desired fit into the upper surface 54 of the inner lid 24 as will be described.

The second flap 28 is hinged to the inner lid 24 by a living hinge 46 . Accordingly, the second flap 28 is openable and cooperates with the inner lid 24 to provide access to the particulate matter within the container. The closed second flap 28 is secured to the inner lid 24 (in this closed state) by means of an interference fit (snap fit) conceptually similar to the snap-fit arrangement between the inner lid 24 and the closure body 22. ). The interference fit is positioned adjacent the upper edge of the finger clasp 50 . A finger tab 50 is included as part of the construction of the inner cover 24 and second bezel 28 which creates a clearance space 52 for the user to insert a fingernail or thumbnail or other implement (as only some options) to access and release A snap-fit (interference fit) structure between the second baffle 28 and the inner cover 24 . Apart from the hinge 46, the second flap 28 has a substantially uniform thickness throughout in order to obtain the desired fit into the upper surface of the inner lid 24 as will be described.

The upper surface 54 of the inner cover 24 includes a first recessed region 56 having a substantially uniform recessed depth and a circumferential shape substantially corresponding to the circumferential shape of the first baffle 26 (see FIG. 8 ). When dimensioning the circumferential shape of region 56 , it is important to ensure that first baffle 26 fits within region 56 without any edge-to-edge conflict or mismatch. Accordingly, the axial depth of region 56 should be at least equal to the thickness of first baffle 26, such that upper surface 58 of first baffle 26 is preferably flush with upper surface 54, and if not, only slightly recessed or slightly raised.

The upper surface 54 of the inner cover 24 includes a second recessed region 60 having a substantially uniform recessed depth and a circumferential shape substantially corresponding to the circumferential shape of the second baffle 28 (see FIG. 15 ). When dimensioning the circumferential shape of region 60 , it is important to ensure that second baffle 28 fits within region 60 without any edge-to-edge conflict or mismatch. Accordingly, the axial depth of the region 60 should be at least equal to the thickness of the second baffle 28 such that the upper surface 62 of the second baffle 28 is preferably flush with the upper surface 54 and, if not, only slightly recessed or slightly raised.

Region 56 defines a spaced apart pattern 64 of dispensing orifices 66 . In the exemplary embodiment, there are a total of nine orifices 66 spaced apart and of substantially uniform size and substantially equal spacing. In an exemplary embodiment, each orifice is generally circular with a diameter of approximately 0.12 inches. The dispensing aperture 66 extends completely through the inner lid 24 and is constructed and arranged to shake out at least Some.

The number of orifices 66, the size of the orifices 66, and whether all orifices 66 have substantially the same diameter are design variables. While the preferred embodiment is described based on exemplary figures, it is contemplated that design specifications can vary based on the particulate matter to be dispensed from the container, the range of particle sizes, desired rate of dispensation, and product aesthetics. An exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes protrusions 68 (see FIG. 8 ) for plugging each aperture 66 closed. A circular/cylindrical shape for the aperture 66 and for the protrusion 68 was selected as a suitable design for the exemplary embodiment. Each protrusion 68 (equal in number to the number of apertures 66 ) has a circumferential size and shape adapted to pivot into and plug its corresponding aperture 66 when the first flap 26 is hinged closed. As will be appreciated, the particular pattern for the protrusions 68 is the same as for the apertures 66 .

Region 60 defines a spaced apart pattern 70 of dispensing orifices 72 . In the exemplary embodiment, there are a total of three orifices 72 spaced apart and of substantially uniform size and substantially equal spacing. In an exemplary embodiment, each orifice is circular with a diameter of approximately 0.30 inches. The dispensing aperture 72 extends completely through the inner lid 24 and is constructed and arranged to shake out at least some of the particulate matter in the container when the second flap 28 has hinged open as illustrated in FIGS. Some.

The number of orifices 72, the size of the orifices 72, and whether all orifices 72 have substantially the same diameter are design variables. While the preferred embodiment is described based on exemplary figures, it is contemplated that design specifications can vary based on the particulate matter to be dispensed, the range of particle sizes, desired rate of dispense, and product aesthetics. An exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes protrusions 74 (see FIG. 15 ) for plugging each aperture 72 closed. The circular/cylindrical shape for the aperture 72 and for the protrusion 74 was selected as a suitable design for the exemplary embodiment. Each protrusion 74 (equal in number to the number of apertures 72 ) has a circumferential size and shape adapted to pivot into and plug its corresponding aperture 72 when the second flap 28 is hinged closed. As will be appreciated, the particular pattern for the protrusions 74 is the same as for the apertures 72 .

Figures 1-7 illustrate the dispensing closure 20 in the closed state, wherein the inner cap 24 is snap closed (interference fit) to the closure body 22, wherein the first flap 26 is snap closed (interference fit), and Wherein the second baffle 28 is snapped (interference fit) closed. 8-14 illustrate the dispensing closure 20 in a first mode of use, with the first flap 26 hinged open for dispensing the particulate matter, typically by shaking. 15-21 illustrate the dispensing closure 20 in the second mode of use, wherein the second flap 28 is hinged open for dispensing the particulate matter, typically by shaking.

22-28 illustrate the dispensing closure 20 in a third mode of use with the first and second flaps 26 and 28 respectively closed and the inner lid 24 hinged open. This mode will likely be selected when scooping or scooping or pouring of particulate matter and a larger opening is desired for the chosen utensil (spoon or spoon) or preferably for pouring. As shown, the closure body 22 defines a central opening 76 surrounded by an inner annular lip 78 . The inner annular lip 78 is slightly recessed from the outer wall 80 of the closure body 22 and serves as part of a sealing interface with the inner annular lip 84 of the lid 24 for sealing based on the use of the dispensing closure 20 in combination with a container. Close the particulate matter stored in this container. In a cooperative and compatible manner, the inner surface 82 of the inner cover 24 includes an annular rim 84 which, in the exemplary embodiment, is substantially circular. The annular rim 84 is sized and arranged to have a substantially line-to-line fit against the inner edge 86 of the annular lip 78 . When the inner cap 24 is closed against the closure body 22, the annular lip 84 fits downwardly inside the annular lip 78 to create a sealed interface between the inner cap 24 and the closure body 22 for retaining particulate matter. This helps keep the contents of the container (particulate matter) fresh and helps prevent any accidental contamination.

Figures 29-35 illustrate the dispensing closure 20 in a fourth mode of use in which both the first flap 26 and the second flap 28 are hinged open. While this fourth mode of use is not considered to be the same as any of the first three modes of use, it is also an option. This fourth mode will likely be selected when it is desired to dispense particulate matter by shaking, but there is a relatively large amount of particulate matter to be dispensed and can be achieved somewhat faster by opening both flaps 26 and 28 .

36-42 illustrate the dispensing closure 20 with both flaps 26 and 28 hinged open and the inner lid 24 hinged open. This particular structure is not considered an additional usage mode, since it is actually the same as the third mode. These figures are provided in order to show the complete independence and mutual exclusivity of each of the three articulation structures. The inner cover 24 can be opened and closed regardless of the state or condition of either the first flap 26 or the second flap 28 . This same said independence applies in the same way for the first flap 26 relative to the second flap 28 and the inner cover 24 and for the second flap 28 relative to the first flap 26 and the inner cover 24 .

In describing the exemplary embodiment of dispensing closure 20, it has been explained that several design and construction elements of the exemplary embodiment have alternatives and design variations that are foreseen and suitable for the intended use of the disclosed dispensing structure. For example, the pattern, number, and size of apertures 66 and the pattern, number, and size of apertures 72 can each vary. While the specification of some of these variables can dominate or influence the specification of other variables, the design options are inherently independent.

As a way to demonstrate design variations and illustrate versatility for the exemplary embodiments of the disclosed dispensing closure, additional Figures 43-94 are included with dashed lines to illustrate a range of alternatives that can be presented and variants (all within the scope of the contemplated exemplary embodiments) constructions and elements. The use of dashed lines is a means of delineating one or more features of an exemplary embodiment which may be selectively changed, varied or modified while still maintaining the basic aspects, performance and structural elements of the present invention. These additional figures include six variants, and for reference numerals, some of the same reference numerals used in FIGS. 1-42 are reused, but with number prefix. For example, a first variation of dispensing closure 20 includes a 100 prefix, and the corresponding dispensing closure is thus labeled dispensing closure 120 . The second variant involves a dispensing closure 220, and this is true for each of the six variants. Each of these six variants is illustrated using the seven views corresponding to FIGS. 1-7 and using the flip-open views in FIGS. 8 , 15 and 22 . The use of dashed lines in these design variations (FIGS. 43-94) indicates the fact that some of the specific dimensions, shapes and configurations can be varied without changing the basic principles, concept and function of the invention.

43-52 illustrate a dispensing closure 120 having a closure body 122 , an inner cap 124 , a first barrier 126 and a second barrier 128 .

53-62 illustrate a dispensing closure 220 having a closure body 222 , an inner cap 224 , a first barrier 226 and a second barrier 228 .

63-72 illustrate a dispensing closure 320 having a closure body 322 , an inner cap 324 , a first barrier 326 and a second barrier 328 .

73-82 illustrate a dispensing closure 420 having a closure body 422 , an inner cap 424 , a first flap 426 and a second flap 428 .

83-92 illustrate a dispensing closure 520 having a closure body 522 , an inner cap 524 , a first barrier 526 and a second barrier 528 .

93-94 illustrate a dispensing closure 620 having a closure body 622 and an inner cap 624 .

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, it is to be considered illustrative and not restrictive in nature, it being understood that only preferred embodiments have been shown and described, and within the scope of All changes, equivalents and modifications within the spirit of the invention as defined by the following claims are intended to be protected. All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference and set forth in its entirety In this article.

Claims (20)

1. A dispensing closure comprising: a closure body defining a dispensing orifice; an openable cover cooperating with the closure body to provide access to the dispensing orifice, the openable cover defining a first dispensing means and a second dispensing means; a first openable shutter cooperating with said openable lid to enable access to said first dispensing device; and A second openable shutter cooperating with said openable lid to allow access to said second dispensing device. 2. The dispensing closure of claim 1 wherein said openable lid is hinged to said closure body. 3. The dispensing closure of claim 2, wherein the first openable flap is hinged to the openable lid. 4. The dispensing closure of claim 3, wherein the second openable flap is hinged to the openable lid. 5. The dispensing closure of claim 1 wherein said first dispensing means comprises a plurality of first openings. 6. The dispensing closure of claim 5, wherein each first opening of the plurality of first openings has a first diameter dimension. 7. The dispensing closure of claim 6, wherein the second dispensing means comprises a plurality of second openings. 8. The dispensing closure of claim 7, wherein each second opening of the plurality of second openings has a second diameter dimension. 9. The dispensing closure of claim 8, wherein the second diameter dimension is greater than the first diameter dimension. 10. The dispensing closure of claim 1, further comprising first closure means for cooperating with said first dispensing means as part of said first openable shutter. 11. The dispensing closure of claim 10, further comprising said closure means for cooperating with said second dispensing means as part of said second openable shutter. 12. The dispensing closure of claim 11, wherein said first dispensing means comprises a plurality of substantially cylindrical openings and said first closure means comprises a plurality of substantially cylindrical protrusions. 13. The dispensing closure of claim 12, wherein said second dispensing means comprises a plurality of substantially cylindrical openings and said second closure means comprises a plurality of substantially cylindrical protrusions. 14. A dispensing closure for a container, said dispensing closure comprising: a closure body constructed and arranged to be assembled to the container, the closure body defining a dispensing orifice; a cap member hinged to said closure body and constructed and arranged to close said dispensing orifice; and A plurality of combinations of openable hood flaps and dispensing openings formed as part of the hood member, wherein the combinations are adjacent to each other, and wherein the combinations overlap the dispensing orifice. 15. The dispensing closure of claim 14, wherein each openable cover flap is hinged to the cover member. 16. The dispensing closure of claim 15, wherein a dispensing opening of the plurality of combinations is an opening of the first plurality of openings. 17. The dispensing closure of claim 16, wherein another dispensing opening of the plurality of combinations is an opening of a second plurality of openings. 18. The dispensing closure of claim 17, wherein the openings of the first plurality of openings are different sizes and/or different shapes than the openings of the second plurality of openings. 19. The dispensing closure of claim 14, further comprising an interference fit between said cap member and said closure body for selectively retaining said cap member in closed The state remains above the dispensing orifice. 20. The dispensing closure of claim 14, further comprising an interference fit between each openable cover flap in said plurality of combinations and said cover member for Each openable hood flap is selectively maintained over its corresponding dispensing opening in the closed condition.