Child resistant closure system including reversible cap and container

Abstract

A reversible closure system for containers is disclosed. A cap is adapted as a closure that may be reversibly affixed to a container in either a child-resistant configuration or a non-child resistant configuration. An upper portion of the cap is adapted to function in a non-child resistant closure mode, and a lower portion of the cap adapted to function in a child-resistant closure mode. The upper portion of the cap functions in a non-child resistant configuration to secure the cap to the container by inserted engagement of a cylindrical plug section having a side wall provided with threads that mate with corresponding threads on the inner surface of the mouth of the container. An outer skirt is disposed in surrounding relation with the plug section to shield and protect the threads from damage. The lower portion of the cap functions in a child-resistant configuration to secure the cap to the container by engagement of locking lugs on the cap with lug receiving cam structures defined on the outer surface of the container. The cap further includes a resilient insert that functions in the child-resistant mode to provide resilient sealing contact with the upper end of the container without deforming the neck of the container.

1 . A reversible child resistant closure system comprising: 
 a container defining an open top;    a cap adapted for mating engagement with the top of said container;    said cap including an upper portion defining an axial plug having an outer surface including a non-child resistant engaging means for engaging said container, said upper portion further including an upper circumferential outer skirt in radially spaced surrounding relation with said plug outer surface;    said cap including a lower portion defining a lower circumferential outer skirt including a child-resistant engaging means for engaging said container; and    a resilient insert within said cap, said insert disposed for axially contacting the open top of said container when said cap when said child-resistant engaging means engages said container.