Overcap assembly for valved containers

Abstract

An overcap assembly which is particularly suited for use in conjunction with spray-type cans having domed upper ends with annular beads surrounding a valve actuator. The overcap assembly includes a molded-plastic cup-shaped member adapted to be placed over the valve and an inverted, frusto-conical sleeve connecting the cap to the can in such a manner as to expose the valve when the cap is rotated. The sleeve has a pair of legs connected together by flexible webs providing fulcrums at diametrical locations. Lugs are provided on the lower ends of the legs to engage underneath the bead, and a helical groove is provided in the upper end of the sleeve. A cylindrical wall depends from the end wall of the cap and has a bead which engages in the helical groove. The webs of the sleeve are located closer to the top the cap than to the lugs at the bottom. As a result, rotation of the cap relative to the sleeve causes the upper end of the sleeve to be squeezed inwardly about the fulcrums, thereby displacing the lugs outwardly away from the bead on the can. By designing the assembly so that the friction between the sleeve and the can is less than the friction between tne sleeve and the cap, a child-proof function can be provided by requiring a combined turning and pulling action to expose the valve.