Abstract:
A nozzle assembly ( 3, 20 ) with a re-useable break off cap ( 20 ) for dispensing a product from a container ( 1 ). On a dispensing end ( 5 ) of the nozzle ( 3 ) a break-off cap ( 20 ) is integrally formed thereon and closes off the dispensing end ( 5 ) of the nozzle ( 3 ). The break-off cap ( 20 ) is removable by breaking a frangible connection ( 22 ) between the nozzle ( 3 ) and the break-off cap ( 20 ). Removing the break-off cap opens the dispensing end ( 5 ) of the nozzle ( 3 ) thereby allowing product to be dispensed through the nozzle ( 3 ). The break-off cap ( 20 ) removed from the nozzle ( 3 ) can then be re-engaged with the nozzle ( 3 ) to close off the dispensing end ( 5 ) thereby preventing further product from being dispensed. The cap can be attached to or removed from the nozzle ( 3 ) as often as a user requires. Packaging which includes a tray ( 111 ) or pouch into which the nozzle assembly ( 3, 20 ) and container ( 1 ) can be inserted. A flexible resealable peel-off cover ( 110 ) is provided on each tray ( 111 ) to allow a user to resealably open and close the tray ( 111 ). The resealable tray ( 111 ) can be provided either singly or as a series of trays. The nozzle assembly may also incorporate an applicator for application of the dispensed product.

Description:
RELATED U.S. APPLICATION DATA 
       [0001]    This application is a division of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/849,809, filed on May 21, 2004, which continues-in-part from U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/297,384, filed 6 Dec. 2002. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present invention relates generally to the field of packs/packaging, and in particular dispensing packs/packaging. In particular the present invention relates to a dispensing nozzle assembly with a re-useable break-off (or break-away) cap. The nozzle assembly may be attachable to a container or integrally formed therewith. The nozzle may thus be closed with the cap after the cap has been broken off. The nozzle may be attachable to or integrally formed with a container and the containers contents are thus protectable by the re-useable cap. In one aspect of the invention, a dispensing nozzle incorporating an applicator, such as a flow through brush applicator, is provided. 
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF RELATED TECHNOLOGY 
       [0003]    It is desired to provide inexpensive re-useable dispensing packs which offer the user the opportunity to partially dispense the contents of a container and store the remainder for later use. The user can dispense as much of the contents as required and then re-close (or reseal) the pack to store the contents for a future use. Re-sealing the pack is important particularly for materials which are sensitive to their environment for example products which are air, moisture, light sensitive etc. 
         [0004]    Many re-closeable packs are known. In general these may be complex to manufacture and require removable caps etc. which allow the container to be re-sealed after a use. On the other hand it is known to provide single use or “one shot” disposable pack which once opened cannot be subsequently closed. This form of pack is usually a tear- or break-open pack. The advantage of a one shot pack is its relatively inexpensive manufacture as compared to re-closeable or re-sealable packs. The disadvantage of such containers is of course that the contents are intended to be used all at once. If not all the product is used at one time, there is a difficulty in storing the pack as it is not closed and the contents may spill. The life of the remaining product may also be compromised particularly as stated above where the product is sensitive to environmental factors. 
         [0005]    It is also possible to provide low cost tubes, for instance a tube constructed of aluminium or other such metal or plastics materials. Such tubes are often provided with screw-on, snap-on, or otherwise engageable nozzles. The nozzle is usually provided to help accurate dispensing of the contents of the tube. These nozzles are often provided with separate screw-on caps to close the dispensing nozzle to protect the product. The nozzle and the cap are separately provided and the cap is screwed onto the nozzle. In order to use the dispensing nozzle it is firstly screwed onto the tube. A dispenser with dispensing means for dispensing the contents of the tubes is known for example from WO 00/00405. The device is provided with a nozzle which screws onto the tube and a cap which screws onto the nozzle. The device of WO 00/00405 may be used with a nozzle assembly or container of the present invention. Alternatively a container with an integrally formed nozzle may be provided. Containers with integrally formed dispensing nozzles are also often deformable (squeezable). 
         [0006]    There exists a requirement for a low cost multi-use pack. 
         [0007]    A further problem in providing a reusable container or nozzle assembly with a break-off cap is difficulty in re-closing the container/nozzle to provide a reliable seal to protect the contents of the container. It is difficult to provide low cost containers/nozzles which close after use to provide a reliable seal. Creating a reliable seal necessitates accurate mating of the surfaces forming the seal. This in turn requires careful manufacture with precise engineering of the product which may be reflected in increased cost in production. Generally components which mate to provide a seal are manufactured separately and with great precision so that the subsequent making of the components provides the desired seal. 
         [0008]    Difficulty of re-closure is especially acute with break-off caps. Break-off caps are frangibly connected to the container which they close. Breaking the frangible connection between the break-off part (usually the cap) and the container may leave remnants of the frangible connection on the break-off part or on the container. These remnants may interfere with subsequent re-fitting of the break-off part to the container thus making proper re-closure of the container difficult, with possible ensuing detriment to the useable life of the product within the container. As stated above there are certain types of products which particularly need protection from the general environment. Of particular concern in the present case are curable products, in particular adhesives. 
         [0009]    EP 0 326 529 describes a strip of phials. The document is concerned with the problem of handling of relatively small phials, and proposes a strip or web of phials which are more easily handled mechanically. Each phial is a small squeezable container with an integrally moulded nozzle and cap on the container. The cap is a break-off cap and the containers are intended to be single use “one shot” containers. 
         [0010]    Henkel Loctite (Ireland) Limited manufactures and sells a product under the trademark Indermil® which is approved for sale as a tissue adhesive for biomedical uses. The product is presented for sale in individual phials similar in construction to the phials disclosed in EP 0 326 529 discussed above. The phial has a hollow container body for receiving and holding product placed in the container. The hollow container body has an outlet nozzle, through which the product is dispensable. The outlet nozzle has a first intake end which projects from the container body and is integrally formed therewith. The nozzle has a second dispensing end with a dispensing opening formed in the dispensing end and a mouth formed on the nozzle about the dispensing opening. The nozzle of the device has a nozzle body with a conduit defined therein and bounded by an internal surface of the nozzle body, the conduit in communication with the container body and the dispensing opening. The phial has a break-off cap comprising a cap body for closing the dispensing end of the outlet nozzle, the break-off cap having a first position wherein the cap body is integrally formed with the outlet nozzle to close the outlet opening of the outlet nozzle and is connected thereto by at least one frangible connection, and a second position wherein the frangible connection is broken allowing removal of the cap and thus opening the outlet opening thereby allowing product to be dispensed from the container. The cap once removed may be inverted and repositioned on the container by push-fit (frictional) engagement of the cap and the nozzle. It is desired to provide an alternative nozzle assembly for use with a container which can be used to store materials. In order to improve the useful life of products stored in containers it may be desirable to provide an outer (protective) packaging which may help improve storage stability, particularly one that is convenient for point of sale display. 
         [0011]    The aforementioned dispensing packs dispense a portion of product directly through the nozzle. For certain uses, it is desirable not only to dispense product but to control the application of the dispensed product to an intended surface. For example, in one such instance, it may be necessary to spread the dispensed product thinly across a surface. 
         [0012]    It is desirable to provide inexpensive reusable dispensing packs incorporating an applicator. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0013]    A first aspect of the present invention provides a nozzle assembly comprising: 
         [0014]    a) an outlet nozzle for dispensing product, having a first intake end for taking up product from a container and a second dispensing end with a dispensing opening formed in the dispensing end and a mouth formed on the nozzle about the dispensing opening, the nozzle comprising a nozzle body with a conduit defined therein and bounded by an internal surface of the nozzle body, the conduit for communication between the intake end of the nozzle and the dispensing opening; and 
         [0015]    b) a break-off cap comprising a cap body for closing the dispensing end of the outlet nozzle, the break-off cap having a first position wherein the cap body is integrally formed with the outlet nozzle to close the dispensing opening of the outlet nozzle and is connected thereto by at least one frangible connection, and a second position wherein the frangible connection is broken allowing removal of the cap and thus opening the dispensing opening thereby allowing product to be dispensed through the outlet nozzle; 
         [0016]    the nozzle assembly having an internal annular crotch, which narrows in a radially outward direction, formed between the nozzle and the cap body about the dispensing opening, the crotch providing a weakened junction between the cap and the nozzle allowing the cap to be broken off from the nozzle thus breaking the frangible connection. 
         [0017]    In a second aspect the present invention provides a nozzle assembly comprising: 
         [0018]    a) an outlet nozzle for dispensing product having a first intake end for taking up product from the container and a second dispensing end with a dispensing opening formed in the dispensing end and a mouth formed on the nozzle about the dispensing opening, the nozzle comprising a nozzle body with a conduit formed therein defined by an internal surface of the nozzle body, the conduit for communication between the intake end and the dispensing opening; and 
         [0019]    b) a break-off cap comprising a cap body for closing the dispensing end of the outlet nozzle, the break-off cap having a first position wherein the cap body is integrally formed with the outlet nozzle to close the dispensing opening of the outlet nozzle and is connected thereto by at least one frangible connection, and a second position wherein the frangible connection is broken allowing removal of the cap and thus opening the dispensing opening thereby allowing product to be dispensed through the outlet nozzle; 
         [0020]    the cap body and the outlet nozzle having interengaging formations for subsequently securing the break-off cap to the nozzle body to close the outlet opening. 
         [0021]    In a third aspect of the present invention the first and second aspects of the invention may be combined in a single nozzle assembly. This combined nozzle assembly is particularly useful to provide re-useable containers. The nozzle assembly combining the features of the first and second aspects allows for ease of removal of the cap from the nozzle and also subsequent re-fitting of the cap to the nozzle. 
         [0022]    It is particularly desirable that the nozzle (and thus the nozzle assembly) forms an integral part of the container, though as explained above the nozzle assembly may be adapted to engage on an existing container, for example by snap-fitting or screw-threading. 
         [0023]    The (internal) annular crotch allows for ease of removal of the cap as the apex of the crotch runs toward (and preferably meets) the frangible connection so that resistance to breaking off is not so great as it might otherwise be. The annular crotch may thus be considered inside, or interior to the frangible connection. There is less of a tendency for the remnants of the frangible connection to remain on the nozzle, thus facilitating ease of subsequent re-closure of the nozzle. There is thus provided a weakened junction (or a circumferential line of weakness) between the cap and the nozzle. 
         [0024]    The crotch may be generally v-shaped being defined on one side by a surface of the cap body and on the other by a surface of the nozzle. The surfaces defining the cap may diverge in a radially inward direction. In the radially outward direction the surfaces of the crotch may converge toward the frangible connection to (a point of convergence to) form the apex of the v-shape. At the apex the nozzle and the cap are frangibly connected. 
         [0025]    The surface on the nozzle defining one side of the crotch may run from the internal surface of the nozzle, or from a position proximate to the internal surface of the nozzle to the mouth of the nozzle. The annular crotch is thus internal to the nozzle/cap arrangement. 
         [0026]    In one particularly simple though desired construction one side of the internal annular crotch is provided, at least in part, by a ramped surface running from the internal surface of the nozzle defining the conduit to the mouth of the nozzle. The ramped surface is desirably annular. In one arrangement the annular ramped surface is of a generally frusto-conical shape (narrowing in diameter downwardly) for example gradually decreasing in diameter from the mouth of the nozzle to the surface defining the conduit. This embodiment allows for ease of re-closing the container with a reliable seal as will be described below. 
         [0027]    To further ensure ease of removal of the cap from the nozzle the nozzle assembly is desirably provided with an external annular crotch, which narrows in a radially inward direction, formed between the nozzle and the cap body about the dispensing opening, the external crotch providing a weakened junction (exterior to the frangible connection). 
         [0028]    As with the (internal) annular crotch described above, the external crotch may be generally v-shaped being defined on one side by a surface of the cap body and on the other by a surface of the nozzle. The surfaces defining the cap may diverge in a radially outward direction. In the radially inward direction the surfaces of the crotch may converge toward the frangible connection to form the apex of the v-shape. At the apex the nozzle and the cap are frangibly connected. 
         [0029]    The surface on the nozzle defining one side of the external crotch may run from an external (side) surface of the nozzle, to a position on the nozzle proximate or at the mouth of the nozzle. 
         [0030]    Typically the frangible connection is formed by plastics material during moulding of the container of the invention from plastics material. 
         [0031]    The provision of the internal annular crotch allows for particular clean break-off of the cap. Clean surfaces (surfaces without remnants of the frangible connection) are left about the nozzle mouth so that subsequent re-closure of the nozzle (and thus the container) is facilitated. Good mating of the cap and nozzle surfaces help to protect product within the container from environmental influences. 
         [0032]    A container according to the second aspect (or third aspect) of the present invention is thus provided with a re-closeable cap which is easily re-fitted to the nozzle (container) to provide a reliable seal. The container and the nozzle assembly can be moulded as a single piece for example from plastics material, thus making an integrally formed container which is relatively low cost to produce. 
         [0033]    A container having a nozzle assembly according to any aspect of the present invention is desirably a hand-held phial. The phial may be constructed of deformable plastics so that it may be squeezable (by manual pressure and in particular finger pressure) to express product. Optionally the phial may be constructed of clear or translucent plastics. The plastics material can be sufficiently translucent to allow the level of product within the container to be determined by external viewing (through the sides of the container). 
         [0034]    The interengaging formations may for example be screw-threads. Alternatively the interengaging formations may be snap-fit formations. In one desirable arrangement the interengaging formations are snap-fit formations that are disengageable from the interengaged position by relative rotation of the cap and the nozzle. Where the nozzle is on, or is integrally formed with a container, this will also occur where the cap and the container are rotated relative to each other. It is desirable that the interengaging formations snap-fit to hold the cap to the nozzle and/or container, and yet, allow twisting off of, the cap, from the nozzle and/or container. This arrangement allows for particular ease of the replacement and removal of the cap, on or from the nozzle (container). 
         [0035]    The break-off cap is desirably held in an inverted position on the outlet nozzle before it is broken off. In this arrangement an outer surface of the cap closes the dispensing opening on the nozzle (which may in turn be connected to an outlet opening on the tube). This is an especially simple construction. Suitably the outer surface of the cap closing the dispensing opening is an internal wall of a recess or housing formed on the cap the housing mating with the mouth of the nozzle. This arrangement ensures unwanted plastics material produced during moulding does not inadvertently interfere with the dispensing opening. 
         [0036]    The break-off cap is desirably reversible so that when broken off, the cap may be inverted for replacement on to the nozzle (container). In this embodiment it is desirable that the cap body comprises a housing for receiving the outlet nozzle, the formations for interengaging with the reciprocal interengaging formations on the nozzle or on the container being formed on the housing desirably internally. In this embodiment an inner surface of the cap (a surface within the housing) closes the outlet opening. This embodiment is particularly advantageous as if remnants of the frangible connection remain on the cap, after the cap has been broken off, then the remnants will be on the exterior of the cap (in the closed position of the cap). The remnants cannot then interfere with closure. This arrangement ensures also that a proper seal is formed between the cap and the nozzle so that when the filling process is completed though the open base end of the container, and the base of the container sealed, the entire container is sealed by an integrally formed body. No concerns about proper securing of the cap on the nozzle/container then arise. 
         [0037]    The interengaging formations may be formed by one or more projections and one or more corresponding recesses or grooves with which the projections engage. The projections and the grooves/recesses may be located respectively on the nozzle and on the cap or vice versa. This arrangement may provide for snap-fit engagement of the cap on the nozzle/container. 
         [0038]    Desirably the cap has a discharge opening engaging portion for closing the dispensing opening. This may be a projecting portion on the underside of the cap which at least partially projects into the dispensing opening of the nozzle. This is a desirable construction as the projecting portion may help to provide a reliable seal between the cap and the nozzle. Where the internal annular crotch is provided, at least in part with a ramped surface, the projecting portion is desirably shaped to mate. When the ramped surface is of a generally (inverted) frusto-conical shape it is desired that the projecting portion is shaped to mate, for example of a conical or frusto-conical shape. This arrangement allows for ease of reclosure of the cap. In one highly desired embodiment the projecting portion is conical in shape. 
         [0039]    In one particularly advantageous construction the nozzle is oblong in cross section and the cap is correspondingly shaped (for mating of the nozzle and the cap) so that relative rotation of the cap and the nozzle/container causes deformation of the cap and allows for its removal. The cap and nozzle can be said to be irregularly shaped, i.e., their shapes do not allow for relative rotation without deformation of at least the cap taking place. Where snap-coupling means are provided deformation of the cap desirably disengages the snap-coupling means allowing for removal of the cap. One way to achieve this function is to provide a nozzle which is oblong in cross-section and which has a four sided configuration so that in cross-section it has two opposing substantially flat sides and two opposing curved ends. The cap may taper (narrow) towards its top end to correspond to the shape of the nozzle. When a cap is provided with reciprocal (for example an over-fitting) shape relative rotation of the nozzle and the cap will cause deformation of the cap and/or the nozzle/container. It is desired that for the most part it is the cap which deforms on relative rotation. In this construction the snap-fit engagement means may be provided on the flat sides of the nozzle (and on the corresponding sides of the cap) so that the cap can be relatively easily removed from the container by relative rotation of the cap and the container. 
         [0040]    Desirably the nozzle and the cap have co-operating guiding surfaces which guide the cap toward a desired orientation relative to the nozzle. In particular it is desired for aesthetic, handling, packaging and other purposes that the cap and the nozzle/container have a certain alignment. For instance where the cap and the container are flat in shape it may be desired to align the cap with the container so that the cap remains in line with the container body. This can also ensure that the cap is correctly seated on the nozzle. In one desired construction the guiding surfaces will align the cap on the nozzle if the cap and nozzle are within about 45° of the desired alignment. The guiding surface may be a seat and a corresponding seat-engaging portion. The seat may be a recess on the nozzle into which a projection (on the cap) fits. That part of the nozzle or the cap forming the seat may also provide one or more stops to prevent incorrect alignment of the cap and the nozzle/container. This arrangement is particularly desirable, where otherwise, the cap and the nozzle could be forced together in an undesired orientation. 
         [0041]    The invention provides in a fourth aspect a series of tear-off blisters frangibly attached each to the next, each blister comprising a blister tray, and a flexible peel-off cover for the blister tray, the peel-off cover and the blister tray being attached by re-sealable means, for example an adhesive, which allows reclosing of the blister. This is one particularly advantageous embodiment which is especially useful to help prolong the life of products which may otherwise deteriorate. This applies also to products which may be stored in a container of the present invention, and which may have their useable life extended by storage of the container within an exterior protective pack such as a blister pack. It is desirable that a peel-open tab is provided on each blister to facilitate peeling open of the pack. The tabs may be on the peel-off corner or the tray. 
         [0042]    In a fifth aspect the invention provides a series of tear-off pouches formed by sealing two layers of flexible material to each other about discrete areas, the pouches frangibly attached each to the next, each pouch being provided with a tear-open notch to facilitate tearing open of the material forming the pouch. The tear-off notch allows the pack to ripped open more easily so a user can access the contents. 
         [0043]    The invention in a sixth aspect also relates to a combination package, the combination package comprising a container of the present invention as described above and an outer pack, the outer pack being a blister- or pouch-type pack. Suitably the blister- or pouch-type pack is in the form of a strip or array pack. This is one particularly convenient method of packaging a container according to the present invention. 
         [0044]    The invention provides in a seventh aspect a dispensing nozzle assembly comprising: 
         [0045]    a) an outlet nozzle for dispensing the product having a first intake end for taking up product from a container and a second dispensing end with a dispensing opening formed in the dispensing end and a mouth formed on the nozzle about the dispensing opening, the nozzle comprising a nozzle body with a conduit formed therein; 
         [0046]    b) a brush insert for application of the dispensed product having a brush body and a plurality of bristles extending therefrom, the brush insert adapted to be received into the nozzle body and retained therein so that the plurality of bristles protrude through the dispensing opening, the brush insert further having an inner surface defining a product flow passage through said brush insert, the flow passage in fluid communication with the conduit in the nozzle; 
         [0047]    c) a break-off cap comprising a cap body for closing the dispensing end of the outlet nozzle, the break-off cap having a first position wherein the cap body is integrally formed with the outlet nozzle to close the dispensing opening of the outlet nozzle and is connected thereto by at least one frangible connection, and a second position wherein the frangible connection is broken allowing removal of the cap and thus opening the dispensing opening thereby allowing product to be dispensed through the outlet nozzle. 
         [0048]    Desirably, the cap body and the outlet nozzle have interengaging formations for subsequently securing the break-off cap to the nozzle to close the outlet opening the interengaging formations being “snap-fit” formations that are disengageable from the interengaging position by relative rotation of the cap and the container. 
         [0049]    Typically, the bristles are integrally formed on the brush body. The brush insert may be moulded from a plastics material. 
         [0050]    In one embodiment, the plurality of bristles are formed in a ring. Alternatively, the plurality of bristles may be formed in a plurality of concentric rings. 
         [0051]    Desirably, the brush body is substantially cylindrical. 
         [0052]    Typically, the conduit defined by the inner walls of the nozzle body is substantially conical in shape, the inner wall of the nozzle body gradually decreasing in diameter from the first intake end to the dispensing end of the nozzle body. The brush insert is desirably adapted to be inserted into the conduit through the first intake end of the nozzle. 
         [0053]    Suitably, the outer diameter of the brush body is smaller than the internal diameter of the intake end of the nozzle body and substantially equal in diameter to the internal diameter of the dispensing end of the nozzle body so that the brush body is retained in the conduit by friction between the outer wall of the brush body and the inner wall of the nozzle body adjacent the dispensing opening. 
         [0054]    At least a portion of the brush body desirably extends through the dispensing opening. 
         [0055]    In a further aspect, the invention provides a squeezable dispenser for dispensing product comprising: 
         [0056]    a) a container for holding product to be dispensed, 
         [0057]    b) an outlet nozzle in fluid communication with the container for dispensing the product, the outlet nozzle having a dispensing end and a dispensing opening formed in the dispensing end, 
         [0058]    c) plurality of bristles retained within the outlet nozzle and protruding through the dispensing opening for application of the dispensed product, and 
         [0059]    d) a break-off cap comprising a cap body for closing the dispensing end of the outlet nozzle, the break-off cap having a first position wherein the cap body is integrally formed with the outlet nozzle to close the dispensing opening of the outlet nozzle and is connected thereto by at least one frangible connection, and a second position wherein the frangible connection is broken allowing removal of the cap and thus opening the dispensing opening thereby allowing product to be dispensed through the outlet nozzle. 
         [0060]    The cap body and the outlet nozzle may have interengaging formations for subsequently securing the break-off cap to the nozzle to close the outlet opening the interengaging formations being “snap-fit” formations that are disengageable from the interengaging position by relative rotation of the cap and the container. 
         [0061]    In a further aspect, the invention provides a brush insert for insertion into a dispensing nozzle suitable for dispensing from a hand-held phial, the brush insert comprising: 
         [0062]    a) a hollow cylindrical brush body having a inlet end and an outlet end, the internal walls of the brush body defining a product flow path through the cylindrical body between in inlet hole at the inlet end of the body and an outlet hole at the outlet end of the body, and 
         [0063]    b) a plurality of bristles extending away from the outlet end of the cylindrical body substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the brush insert, the plurality of bristles arranged around the outlet hole. 
         [0064]    The brush body and the plurality of bristles may be integrally formed. Desirably, the brush body and the plurality of bristles are integrally formed from an injection moulded plastics material. 
         [0065]    Typically, the plurality of bristles are arranged in at least one concentric ring around the outlet hole. 
         [0066]    The term “v-shaped” as used herein in relation to the present invention includes the convergence of two surfaces towards a point of coincidence, for example an apex, and includes surfaces which are curved and surfaces which do not converge at the same rate towards the point of coincidence. 
         [0067]    The term “ramped” includes both planar and curved sloped surfaces. It also includes those surfaces where the rate of incline changes. 
         [0068]    The term “blister” as used herein refers to a pack arrangement with at least two layers of material, one layer having (an array of) depressions formed in it and within which a container of the invention can be at least partially placed and a second layer for sealing to the first to close the pack about the, or each, depression. 
         [0069]    The term “pouch” as used herein includes a pack arrangement with a layer of material each side of the container, the layers being joined to each other to create a pocket or pouch (similar to a sachet) within which the container is held. The pouch is normally created by heat sealing (or welding) the layers to each other about the container. 
         [0070]    The term “strip” as used herein to refer to packaging includes a series of blisters wherein each container holding compartment (or “blister”) is frangibly connected to each of the other compartments to which it is attached, or a series (lines) of pouches which are frangibly connected one to the next. A strip is usually a single series of blisters or pouches. It will be appreciated that a series of blisters or pouches may be provided as an array such as described below. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0071]      FIG. 1  is a front elevation of (an unfilled) container (with an open base) which incorporates features of the first and second aspects of the present invention; 
           [0072]      FIG. 2  is a side elevation view of the container of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0073]      FIG. 3  is a top plan view of the container of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0074]      FIG. 4  is an underneath plan view of the container of  FIG. 1  (showing the view through the open base); 
           [0075]      FIG. 5  is a cross-sectional view of the container of  FIG. 1  along the line A-A indicated in  FIG. 3 ; 
           [0076]      FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view of the container of  FIG. 1  along the line B-B of  FIG. 3 ; 
           [0077]      FIG. 7  is an enlarged partial front elevational view of the container of  FIG. 1  showing the cap and nozzle of the container in larger dimensions; 
           [0078]      FIG. 8  is an enlarged partial side elevational view of the container of  FIG. 1  showing the cap and nozzle of the container in larger dimensions; 
           [0079]      FIG. 9  is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the container of  FIG. 1  (along the line A-A of  FIG. 3 ) showing the cap and nozzle of the container in larger dimensions; 
           [0080]      FIG. 10  is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the container of  FIG. 1  (along the line B-B of  FIG. 3 ) showing the cap and nozzle of the container in larger dimensions; 
           [0081]      FIG. 11  is a partial view of the view of  FIG. 9  enlarged to an even greater extent; 
           [0082]      FIG. 12  shows a perspective view of a container provided with a nozzle assembly of the invention having being filled (with a sealed base end); 
           [0083]      FIG. 13  is a perspective view of the container of  FIG. 12 , the cap having being broken off from the container body; 
           [0084]      FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the container of  FIG. 12 , the cap having being reversed and replaced (snap-fitted) on the container; 
           [0085]      FIG. 15  is an enlarged front sectional view of the nozzle and cap of the container of  FIG. 14  (with the cap broken off, reversed (inverted) and replaced); 
           [0086]      FIG. 16  is a side cross-sectional view of the container of  FIG. 14  (with the cap broken off, reversed (inverted) and replaced); 
           [0087]      FIG. 17  shows a part-sectional view of a nozzle assembly of the present invention wherein the cap has been broken-off, reversed and incorrectly aligned for replacement on the nozzle; 
           [0088]      FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a container incorporating a nozzle assembly of the present invention having inter-engaging formations on the cap and the nozzle in the form of screw-threads; 
           [0089]      FIG. 19  shows a perspective view of a nozzle assembly of the present invention for attachment to an existing container, which has been attached to a container tube; 
           [0090]      FIGS. 20  ( a )-( c ) show a blister-pack arrangement of the present invention; (a) is an exploded perspective view; (b) is a perspective view of the closed configuration and (c) is a perspective view of a single blister, with the flexible sealing layer partially peeled away; 
           [0091]      FIG. 21  shows an underneath plan view of a series of blisters arranged in a point of sale array; 
           [0092]      FIG. 22  shows a plan view of the point of sale array of  FIG. 21  from one end thereof; 
           [0093]      FIG. 23  is a plan view of the point of sale array of  FIG. 21  from one side thereof; 
           [0094]      FIG. 24  is a perspective view of the underneath side of the point of sale array of  FIG. 21 ; 
           [0095]      FIG. 25  is an underneath plan view of an alternative series of blisters arranged in a point of sale array, and having a different array of blisters (as compared to the array of  FIG. 21 ); 
           [0096]      FIG. 26  is a side elevational view of the point of sale array of  FIG. 25 ; 
           [0097]      FIG. 27  is an underneath plan view of another point of sale array again having a different array of blisters; 
           [0098]      FIG. 28  is a side elevational view of the point of sale array of  FIG. 27 ; 
           [0099]      FIGS. 29  ( a )-( c ) show: (a) an exploded perspective view of a pouch packaging (prior to assembly) according to the present invention; (b) an elevational view of a series of (four) pouches arranged in a tear-off strip; (c) a plan view of a single pouch; 
           [0100]      FIG. 30  shows a top plan view of a point of sale pouch array; 
           [0101]      FIG. 31  shows a side elevational view of the array of  FIG. 30 ; 
           [0102]      FIG. 32  is diagrammatic representation of a point of sale array showing a container of the present invention in each compartment of the pack, the seal (closing) area about the container being shown with hatched lines; 
           [0103]      FIG. 33  shows a side part-sectional view of the arrangement of  FIG. 32  where the array is a pouch pack array; 
           [0104]      FIG. 34  shows a side part-sectional view of the arrangement of  FIG. 32  where the array is a blister pack array; 
           [0105]      FIG. 35  shows a point of sale blister pack array according to the present invention with exemplary product information printed on one side of the array; 
           [0106]      FIG. 36  shows a cross-sectional view of a container which incorporates a dispensing nozzle assembly in accordance with a further aspect of the invention; 
           [0107]      FIG. 37  shows a side cross-sectional view of the container of  FIG. 36 ; 
           [0108]      FIG. 38  shows side elevation view of the brush insert of the container of  FIG. 36 ; 
           [0109]      FIG. 39  shows a plan view of the brush insert of  FIG. 38 ; 
           [0110]      FIG. 40  shows a side perspective view of an alternative embodiment of brush insert to that of  FIG. 38 ; 
           [0111]      FIG. 41  shows a plan view of the brush insert of  FIG. 40 ; 
           [0112]      FIG. 42  shows a cross-sectional view of the container of  FIG. 36  in its pre-filled state (with an open base) before the brush insert is inserted; 
           [0113]      FIG. 43  shows a side cross sectional view of the container and brush insert of  FIG. 42 ; 
           [0114]      FIG. 44  shows a cross-sectional view of the container of  FIG. 42  in its pre-filled state with the brush insert inserted; 
           [0115]      FIG. 45  is a side cross sectional view of the container of  FIG. 44 ; 
           [0116]      FIG. 46  is a perspective view of the container of  FIG. 36 , the cap having been broken off the container ready for use. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0117]    Certain embodiments of the present invention will be described below with relation to the above Figures.  FIG. 1  shows a container  1  of the present invention, having a nozzle assembly (comprising a nozzle  3  and a cap  20 ) of the present invention integrally formed therewith. The container  1  has a hollow container body  2  for receiving and holding product which is placed in the container. An outlet nozzle  3  forming part of the container projects from the container body  2 . A first (intake) end  4  (of the nozzle  3 ) is located on the container body  2 , and in the embodiment illustrated, is integrally formed therewith. The outlet nozzle  3  has a second (free) dispensing end  5  with a dispensing opening  6  formed in the dispensing end  5 . A mouth or rim  7  is formed on the nozzle  3  about the dispensing opening  6 . The outlet nozzle  3  has a nozzle body  8  with a conduit  9  defined therein. The conduit  9  is bounded by an internal surface  10  of the nozzle body  8 . The conduit  9  is in communication with the interior  11  of the container body  2  and the dispensing opening  6 . A break-off cap  20  is located on the outlet nozzle  3 . The break-off cap  20  has a cap body  21  for closing the dispensing end of the outlet nozzle  3 . The nozzle  3  and the break-off cap form a nozzle assembly. Alternatively the nozzle  3  and the break-off cap could be formed as a nozzle assembly for attachment to an existing container, for example an aluminium tube container, as shown in  FIG. 19 . In  FIG. 19  the nozzle assembly  80  is attached to a tube  82 . The nozzle assembly is for the most part as described below in detail with references to  FIG. 1 to 17  though in the embodiments of  FIGS. 1 to 17  the nozzle assembly described is integrally formed with the container. In the embodiment of  FIG. 19  the nozzle assembly  80  has at its first intake end  83  of the outlet nozzle  84  a skirt portion  85  which engages a neck of the tube  82 . The mode of engagement of the nozzle assembly  80  on the tube  82  is by any suitable method for example screw-threading or snap-fitting. In the embodiment of  FIG. 19  the nozzle assembly may be provided as an accessory or attachment adapted for existing containers. 
         [0118]    In  FIGS. 1-12 ,  18  and  19 , the break-off cap is shown in a first position where the cap body  21  is integrally formed with the outlet nozzle  3  to close the dispensing opening  6  of the outlet nozzle  3 . A frangible connection  22  is formed between the nozzle  3  and the cap  20 . The frangible connection  22  can be broken to allow removal of the cap (see  FIG. 13 ) and thus opening (uncovering) the dispensing opening  6  on the nozzle  3 . It is then possible to dispense product from the container  1 . The frangible connection  22  may be formed during integral moulding of the container  1 . The container is desirably constructed of a plastics material so that all components may be formed by a single moulding process. 
         [0119]    As best seen from the enlarged views of  FIGS. 9-11  (and particularly from  FIG. 11 ) an internal annular crotch  23  is formed between the nozzle  3  and the cap body  21  about the dispensing opening  6 . The crotch narrows in a radially outward direction (radially outwardly from the conduit  9 ) providing a generally v-shaped groove or recess at the junction between the cap  20  and the nozzle  3 . The weakened junction (the annular crotch  23 ) between the cap  20  and the nozzle  3  allows the cap  20  to be broken off from the nozzle  3  thus breaking the frangible connection  22 . The product can then be dispensed from the container. 
         [0120]    As best seen from  FIG. 11  the cap body  21  has a recess, groove or housing  25  which is located to the exterior (of the cap body) of the cap. The housing  25  is formed in an external wall of the cap. The provision of housing  25  helps to ensure that no plastics material is inadvertently formed directly across the mouth  6  of the nozzle  3  during moulding of the container. It also allows for ease of break-off of the cap. Desirably the housing  25  has a mouth  26  which is shaped to mate with the mouth  7  (about the dispensing opening  6 ) of the nozzle  3 . Mating is achieved by the frangible connection  22 . 
         [0121]    The container body  21  as shown in  FIGS. 1-6  is open at its bottom end  12 . As best seen from  FIG. 4  the container body  2  depends from the nozzle  3  to form a skirt at its bottom end. The skirt is open forming a generally elongate aperture  13  defined by the bottom end  12  of the container body  2 . The aperture  13  is the aperture through which the product may be placed in the container. Once the container is filled to the desired level with product, the container bottom may be crimped or (heat-) welded (or indeed closed by any suitable method) along line  19  (see  FIGS. 12-14 ) to seal the contents within the container. 
         [0122]    To aid gripping of the container  1  by the hand a thumb or finger grip (such as shown in  FIGS. 1 ,  2  and  6 ) for example in the form of a larger crescent-shaped upstanding grip  14  and a smaller (nested) grip  15  may be provided. The grips  14  and  15  may be provided on opposing sides of the container as seen in  FIG. 2 . 
         [0123]    The nozzle  3  is tapered gradually reducing in dimensions from the container body  2  to the dispensing opening  6 . There is also a stepped reduction of the width of the nozzle  3  from the wider portion  16  to the narrower portion  17  which transition occurs at step or rim  18 . The step or rim  18  also provides a constriction of the conduit  9 . 
         [0124]    Two opposing sides of the reduced diameter portion  17  of the nozzle  3 , namely opposing sides  30 ,  31  are flat (straight) while the two opposing ends  32 ,  33  joining the flat sides  30 ,  31  are curved. 
         [0125]    Each straight side  30 ,  31  has, formed thereon, a projection respectively labelled  34 ,  35 . The projections  34 , taper from respective (upper) positions  36 ,  37  where they are flush with the reduced diameter portion  17 , downwardly and outwardly. The projection  34 ,  35  end in respective rims or edges  38 ,  39 . 
         [0126]    The cap  20  has a shape which resembles a wing nut having a central flat-sided oval shaped narrowing gradually toward its upper end portion  49  forming part of the cap body  21 , to which are attached wing shaped grips, which are respectively labelled  27 ,  28  (see for example  FIG. 7 ) on opposing sides of the flat-side oval portion  24 . Optional reinforcing tabs or ribs  40  are provided to strengthen the junction between the flat-sided oval portion  24  and the wings  27 ,  28 . 
         [0127]    To reinforce the (inverted) attachment of the break-off cap  20  to the nozzle  3  two further frangible connections  41 , 42  are integrally formed one between each of respective lugs  43 ,  44  on the wings  27 ,  28  and the exterior of the nozzle  3 . 
         [0128]    The break-off cap  20  is held in an inverted position on the outlet nozzle before it is broken off. In this arrangement an outer surface, namely the surface of the recess or groove  25  closes the dispensing opening on the container. The break-off cap is reversible so that when broken off, (see  FIG. 13 ) the cap may be inverted for subsequent replacement onto the container (see  FIG. 14 ). 
         [0129]    In this regard it is worth noting that the cap  20 , and in particular the generally flat-sided oval portion  24  (see  FIG. 7 ), forms a housing  50  into which at least a portion of, and in particular the dispensing end  5  of the nozzle  3  is insertable. As can be seen from the Figures the generally flat-sided oval portion  24  matches the profile of the reduced circumference portion  17  of the nozzle  3  and snugly overfits it. In particular the generally flat-sided oval portion  24  comprises a housing  50  defined by two opposing side walls  51 ,  52  in each of which are formed one of two windows or apertures respectively labelled  53 ,  54 . The windows or apertures  53 ,  54  are designed to be snap-fit engageable with the projections  34 ,  35 . The windows  53 ,  54  are cut-out portions of the side walls  51 ,  52  and are generally of rhombehedral shape. When the cap  20  is snap-fitted onto the nozzle  3  (as best seen from  FIGS. 14 and 16 ) lower (transverse) wall portions  55 ,  56  engage underneath the rims  38 ,  39  of the (inverted) cup-shaped projections  34 ,  35 . As best seen for example from  FIGS. 3 ,  12  and  13  the shape of the housing  29  reflects that of the nozzle with the two flat sides  51 ,  52  which are joined by curved ends  57 ,  58 . The mouth  59  of the housing  50  is thus of an oblong shape, and may be considered as a straight or flat-sided oval shape. 
         [0130]    A front sectional view of the container of  FIG. 14  is shown in an enlarged partial view in  FIG. 15 . In  FIGS. 11 and 15  it can be more clearly seen that the nozzle  3  has at its dispensing end  5  and on two opposites side of the mouth  6  two recess portions  60 . The recess portions  60  form a seat for a seat engaging portion  65  on the cap. The seat-engaging portion  65  on the underside of the cap has two parts, a first part  66  (see  FIG. 11 ) which is a first seat-engaging-portion which co-operates with tabs  68  (see  FIGS. 12 and 13 ) on the nozzle  3  and a second seat-engaging-portion  67  which is dimensioned to engage the first seat-engaging-portion  66 . The relative positioning of the seat-engaging-portion  66  and the tabs  68  ensure the desired orientation of the cap and the nozzle (and thus the container) is achieved, as the cap and the nozzle will not mate if the seat-engaging-portion  66  and the tabs  68  abut. The seat-engaging-portion  66  and the tabs  68  abut if the cap is incorrectly orientated. The cap may be correctly guided onto the nozzle by interaction of the tabs  68  and the seat-engaging portions  66  and  67 , and is then seated on the nozzle. Incorrect alignment is shown in  FIG. 17 . In the incorrect alignment of  FIG. 17  lower wall portions  55 , 56  engage recess portions  60  so that recess portions act as stops preventing the cap from being placed over the nozzle. 
         [0131]    The cap  20  when in place on the nozzle is held thereto by inter-engagement of the projections  34 ,  35  in the windows or apertures  53 ,  54  as shown in  FIG. 14  where the cap  20  has been snap-fitted to the nozzle  3 . In the closed configuration (see  FIGS. 11 ,  15  and  16 ) projecting portion or projection  61  (which is generally conical in shape and thus triangular in cross-section) protrudes into the conduit  9  engages the mouth thereof and providing a reliable seal for the container. It will be appreciated that due to the provision of the crotch or annular recess  23  between the nozzle  3  and the cap  20 , the shoulder portions  62  of the nozzle inside the mouth  6  abut exterior walls  63 ,  64  of the conical projection  61 . The projection  61  may alternatively be of any shape suitable to provide a seal for the dispensing opening  6 . There is thus provided a reliable sealing arrangement so that even if remnants of frangible connection  22  were to be left at the top of the nozzle, these will not interfere with the closing action of the cap. In particular, and as best seen from the enlarged view of  FIG. 11  the shoulder portion  62  can be considered to be a ramped surface running from the internal surface of the nozzle defining the conduit, to the mouth of the nozzle. The ramped surface  62  is annular and is generally frusto-conical in shape (in particular narrowing in diameter down the nozzle  3 ). The conical shaped projecting portion  61  and the ramped surface act as a plug and socket type arrangement, the projection portion  61  plugging the dispensing opening of the nozzle  3  by engaging the ramped surface  62 . 
         [0132]    Alternatively as is shown in  FIG. 18  the inter-engaging formations may be screw-threads such as the thread  70  of  FIG. 18  with a corresponding thread within the housing  50 . In this embodiment the cap  71  which is similar in construction to cap  20  does not have the oblong shape of the mouth of the cap  20 . As the cap  71  and the nozzle  72  interengage by means of reciprocal screw-threads (which necessitates relative rotation), the nozzle and the housing  50  of the cap are generally conical in shape. The cap  71  may be otherwise the same in construction to cap  20 . 
         [0133]    As seen in the Figures and in particular the enlarged view of  FIGS. 7-11 , there is also formed an external annular crotch  45 . The crotch  45  narrows in a radially inward direction (radially inward toward the conduit  9 ). The crotch  45  is formed on the exterior of the container between the cap  20  and the nozzle  3  (in particular the mouth  7  of the nozzle  3 ). In particular the crotch  45  is formed by two (radially) inwardly converging surfaces—namely the outer surface  46  on the cap  20  and the outer surface  47  on the nozzle  3 . The surfaces  46  and  47  converge to form an apex  48  of the crotch. There are thus provided two opposing crotches which are located on either side of the frangible connection  22 . This double crotch arrangement allows for ease of removal of the cap  20 . The crotch  45  is v-shaped. The container of the invention is suitable for use with many products including in particular liquids and gels. The container will normally be designed to hold a relatively modest volume for example from about 0.5 to about 5.0 grams, such as about 1 gram or about 2 grams. The container may be crimped (heat-welded) at any part along its length (and above the fill-level in the inverted position) and bottom end  12  may be of a desired shape to facilitate ease of closure of the container. For light-sensitive materials opaque materials may be used to construct the container. 
         [0134]      FIG. 20  shows a blister pack array of the present invention in a pre-form assembly. The blister pack  100  is shown in exploded view. The blister pack comprises a semi-rigid material, such as aluminium in the form of a preform  101 . The preform  101  is a sheet  102  of deformable material such as aluminium material into which have been pressed (or punches) depressions or blisters  103 . Each of the blisters  103  is shaped to receive and at least partially contain a container  104 . Only one container  104  is shown in  FIG. 20 , though it will be appreciated that a container  104  may be placed in each of the blisters  103 . The container  104  shown in  FIG. 20  is diagrammatically drawn for the purposes of illustration only. In practice a container according to the present invention (as described above) may be placed within the blister pack. 
         [0135]    To complete the package a flexible sheet of material  105  such as a foil, for example an aluminium foil, may be used. The sheet  105  corresponds generally in shape to the preform  101 . The sheet  105  is attached to the preform. Normally, such attachment is achieved by heat and pressure sealing of the materials used. However in order to achieve re-sealing, resealing means for example a suitable adhesive which retains sufficient bonding capability to allow re-sealing of the pack could be used. This secures each container  104  within the pack, one in each blister  103 . The person skilled in the art will appreciate how to assemble such a blister pack for example by the materials described or by cold form methods. 
         [0136]    As shown in  FIG. 20  ( b ) the sheet  102  has been sealed to the preform  101 . The sheet  102  (and the preform  101  where necessary) have been cut to a desired shape with rounded edges  106  and a series of cut-out portions or crotches  107 . A crotch  107  is provided on either side of the frangible connection  108 . The frangible connection  108  is machined into the pack (for example as a score line or as a series of perforations) and allows for breaking-off of a single “blister”  109  (as shown in  FIG. 20  ( c )) thus creating a tear-off strip form of blister packaging. A single container  104  is contained within each blister  109 . The blister pack shown in  FIG. 20(   b ) is a single strip of blister. It will be appreciated that multiple strips or arrays are also possible and are described below. 
         [0137]    The crotches  107  on either side of the frangible connection  108  allow for ease of tear-off or break-off of successive blisters. It is intended that in a point of sale display array or strip each blister is easily detachable from the next thus allowing the blisters to be sold individually while being conveniently arranged for display. 
         [0138]    As shown in  FIG. 20  ( c ) the blister is formed with a discrete blister cover  110  which may be peeled back from the blister tray  111 . The sheet  110  has a corner portion  112  [which is shown in dashed outline in the closed position in  FIG. 20  ( c )] which protrudes beyond the blister tray  111 . This allows the blister cover  110  to be peeled back from the rim  113  of the blister tray  111 . The corner portion  112  thus acts as a pull-off tab, allowing the cover  110  to be easily pulled off manually. The blister cover  110  may be resealable to the blister tray  111 . This may be achieved by using a suitable adhesive which does not loose its tackiness to hold the blister cover  110  to the blister tray  111 . 
         [0139]    A point of sale display blister pack array  120  is shown in  FIG. 21 . In the array  120  there are four rows and three columns in a 4×3 arrangement. The blisters  121  are provided in a preform  122 . Also provided on the preform  122  is a planar tab  123  which has defined therein an elongate aperture  124  which extends upwards in a further groove  125  to provide means for hanging the point of display array  120  on a display hook (or hanger). The tab  123  may be integrally formed with the blister pack, or may be attached separately. If not integrally formed the tab can be constructed or other materials, such as cardboard. To facilitate removal of individual blisters, a series of apertures scores or cut-outs and the like may be created in the preform  122 . The cut-out consist of two different types of apertures respectively labelled  126  and  127 . 
         [0140]    The apertures  126  are generally triangular in shape, forming a cut-away portion or crotch  128  between successive blisters  121  in the same row. Where blister  121  occurs at a position in the array where it must be separable from a blister directly beneath it in the column, and simultaneously any adjacent blisters in the same row, a star-shaped aperture  127  is provided. Each “leg” or apex of the star provides a crotch  128 . Frangible connections may be provided (for example simultaneously with sealing the container closed) across and down the array between the rows and the columns to form a grid or array of blisters each of which are frangibly connected to the other. The frangible connection may be provided by partial cut away along a line joining the apertures  126 ,  127  in the row direction or in the column direction. 
         [0141]    An end view of the array of  FIG. 21  is shown in  FIG. 22 . A side-view thereof is shown in  FIG. 23 . A perspective view is shown in  FIG. 24 . 
         [0142]      FIG. 25  shows an underneath (plan) view of a point of sale display array  130  which is very similar to the array of  120  of  FIG. 21 . The array  130  has six rows and two columns defining a 6×2 arrangement. In this arrangement a generally triangular shaped aperture  131 , and general star-shaped apertures  132  are provided again to allow for ease of removal of the blister  133 . The break away facility may be provided by scores, slits and/or apertures of alternative shapes to those described. Again cut-away portions or crotches  134  are provided along one side of the array  130 . On the other side a series of cut-away portions  135  are also provided to allow for ease of removal. The cut-away portions  135  have one generally straight upper side  136  and a lower corner side  137  which converge inwardly toward a line along which a frangible connection may be provided. This arrangement also allows for ease of removal of the individual blister. A side elevational view of the array  130  is shown in  FIG. 26 . 
         [0143]    A similar array  140  is shown in  FIGS. 27 and 28 , although in this case five rows and two columns are provided in a 5×2 arrangement of blisters  141 . Again cut-away portions are provided for ease of removal of individual blisters  141 . Certain materials useful in the construction of the blister pack include a laminate consisting of the following 3 layers: 30 μm paper/12 μm polyester/20 μm polyvinyl chloride. The preform may be constructed of the following four layered laminate: 60 μm polyvinylchloride/25 μm polyamide/60 μm aluminium/60 μm polyvinyl chloride. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that many sorts of suitable materials can be used. 
         [0144]      FIG. 29  shows various views of a pouch assembly  150  of the present invention.  FIG. 29(   a ) is an exploded view of an arrangement for creating a pouch strip  150  of the present invention. In particular the assembly comprises two opposed sheets of flexible material namely an upper sheet  151  and a lower sheet  152  between which is disposed a container  153 . Like the container  104  of  FIG. 20 , the container  153  is shown for diagrammatic purposes. It is desirable that the container  153  is a container according to the present invention. The upper and lower sheets  151 ,  152  are each generally rectangular in shape and of the same size. The sheets  151 ,  152  may be made of an aluminium material, such as for example a laminated aluminium foil. 
         [0145]    To create individual pouches  154  the two sheets  151 ,  152  are brought together and joined to each other about the container  153 . In the arrangement shown in  FIG. 29(   b ) four containers  153  have been sealed within four pouches, one in each pouch  154 . Each container  153  is then in a individual sachet, the sachets being connected in a tear-off strip arrangement. 
         [0146]    In the blister pack arrangement of  FIG. 29(   b ) while the sheets  151 ,  152  are being attached to each other about the containers  153 , they may also be provided with frangible connections  155  and cut away portions  156  at the same time. The sheets  151 ,  152  may be adhered to each other. Alternatively they may be welded or fixed together by any other suitable method. 
         [0147]    The cut-away portions  156  allow for ease of removal of the individual pouches  154  from each other. In particular the cut-away portions  156  comprise a crotch portion  157  which is generally v-shaped. The crotch portion  157  converges to the point of convergence  158  where the crotch portion terminates. There is then formed a further v-shaped recess  159  which acts as a tear-open notch when it is desired to (tear) open the pouch to remove the container inside for use. This is achieved by manually applying a shear or tear-open force at the tear-open notch. The pouch tears allow across to the container inside. An individual pouch  154  is shown torn away from the strip of pouches in  FIG. 29(   c ). The sealed (joining) area about the container can be seen as peripheral rim  160 . 
         [0148]    A point of sale array  170  of pouch packs  173  are shown in  FIGS. 30 and 31 . The arrangement shown has five columns and two rows in a 5×2 arrangement. The array  170  has a tab  171  in which is defined an aperture  172  which allows an array of pouches to be hung on a hook in a manner described previously above. 
         [0149]    In the array  170  each of the pouches  173  is (transversely) frangibly connected to part of the array above and below by transverse frangible connections  174 . The pouches  173  may be separated from each other by a longitudinal frangible connection  175 . Each pouch  173  may be turn or broken away as it frangible from all other blisters to which it is connected. 
         [0150]    The ends  176 ,  177  are not directly supported by the container inside and thus flatten down to provide dished or flattened ends  176 ,  177  which are generally u-shaped, the shape of the container (the contents of the pouch) is taken up by both sheets  151 ,  152  as can be seen from the side view of  FIG. 31 . 
         [0151]    As described above for  FIG. 29 , cut-out portions  178 , generally in the form of v-shaped crotches, are provided on one end of the array between each of the pouches  173 , and between the uppermost blister and the tab. On the opposing side of the array and along the frangible connection  174  cut-out portions or crotches  179  are also provided to allow for ease of the attachment of blisters. Between the uppermost row of pouches and the tab  171  an aperture  180  is provided and is generally triangular in shape with three apexes. The apertures  181  between subsequent rows are generally star-shaped with four apexes. 
         [0152]    Each of the apertures  180 ,  181  extends along the frangible connection  174  and terminates at a point of convergence  183 . A tear-open notch  182  is then provided for each of the pouches  173  on the other side of the point convergence  183 .  FIG. 31  is a side elevational view of the pack of  FIG. 30 . 
         [0153]      FIG. 32  is a diagrammatic representation, in part-sectional view, of a blister pack or a strip pouch according to the present invention in which a container  190  is located in each of the blisters or each of the pouches. The container  190  is a container according to the present invention having an internal annular crotch to allow break-off of the cap  191  as described above. The hatched area  192  indicates the areas sealed between the two flexible sheets sealed together about the container, where the array is a pouch array, or the area between the preform and the flexible sheet sealed together where the array is a blister array. 
         [0154]    The container  190  differs from the containers described previously in a number of relatively minor respects. These includes rims or wings  193  provided on opposing sides of the container which allow for ease of manual handling. The cap  191  has internal threads  194  which engage with reciprocal threads  195  on the nozzle of the container. The cap  191  also has two opposing wings or grips  196  which allow for ease of handling of the cap  191 . A side, part-sectional view of a pouch arrangement is shown in  FIG. 33 . The blister array is shown in side, part-sectional view in  FIG. 34 . 
         [0155]    A point of display array  198  is shown in  FIG. 35 . The array has three columns and four rows (3×4). As can been seen printed matter  199  has been applied to the flat side of the blister pack. 
         [0156]    Methods of preparing the types of packaging described will be known to those skilled in the art. In this respect particular mention is made of a method of packaging often referred to as “flow wrapping”, “flow pack(ing)” or “tube wrap(ing)”. This is a type of packaging which seals in articles. The seal produced on a horizontal or vertical “form-fill-seal” wrapping machine generally associated with wrapping irregular-shaped items (such as candy bars and bakery items). In general the “form-fill-seal” operation is carried out as follows: a reel (web) or reels of flexible packaging material is formed into a container, filled and sealed in one series of operations to produce a package, containing a predetermined quantity of product. 
         [0157]    Form-fill-seal operations (flow packing) can be carried out in three main ways: 
         [0158]    (a) a web of material may be formed into a tube which is filled and sealed at intervals; 
         [0159]    (b) a web of material may be folded along its length, sealed at intervals to form a series of pouches (sachets) which are then filled and closed; and 
         [0160]    (c) a web of material may be thermo-formed to give a series of tray like depressions which are filled, and then sealed by means of a second web. 
         [0161]      FIGS. 36 and 37  show a container of the present invention having a nozzle assembly of the present invention integrally formed therewith. 
         [0162]    In this embodiment, the nozzle is integrally formed with the container. However, it will be appreciated that the nozzle and its break-off cap could be formed as a nozzle assembly for attachment to an existing container, for example an aluminium tube container. The mode of engagement of the nozzle assembly on the tube may be by any suitable method for example screw-threading or snap-fitting. The nozzle assembly may be provided as an accessory or attachment adapted for existing containers. 
         [0163]    The container of  FIG. 36  is identical to that shown in  FIG. 1 , save for the following detail. 
         [0164]    The nozzle assembly comprises a brush insert  300  for application of the dispensed product to a surface. The brush insert is shown in detail in  FIG. 38 . The brush insert is comprised of a brush body  302  and a plurality of bristles  304  extending therefrom (upstanding thereon). The brush body  302  is substantially cylindrical and hollow having an input end  303  and an output end  305 . The inner surface  306  of the brush body defines a product flow passage  308  which extends along the longitudinal axis of the brush insert. 
         [0165]    The bristles  304  extend from the outlet end  305  of the brush body. The bristles  304  are aligned substantially parallel to one another and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the brush insert. The bristles are circumferentially arranged about the longitudinal axis, and there are no bristles arranged above the passage  308 . All bristles are arranged about the passage. Both the fixed ends and the free ends of the bristles are arranged about the passage. 
         [0166]    The brush insert is injection moulded from a plastics material such as low density polyethylene or polypropylene. These materials are used for their low reactive properties with adhesives or other curable substances which the dispenser may be used to dispense. Although the bristles may temporarily harden between uses of the dispenser to dispense adhesive, they will not gel or lock together and prevent subsequent re-use of the dispenser. The insert is particularly useful for dispensing cyanoacrylate adhesive. It will be appreciated that any cyanoacrylate adhesive compatible material may be used for the manufacture of the insert. 
         [0167]    The brush insert is formed as a single piece, with the bristles integrally formed on the brush body. 
         [0168]    As shown in  FIG. 39 , the brush insert comprises a total of ten bristles, arranged in a annular pattern or ring about the opening of the flow passage  308 . 
         [0169]    An alternative embodiment of brush insert is shown in  FIGS. 40 and 41 . The brush insert  400  has a total of sixteen bristles  404  arranged in two concentric rings about the opening of the flow passage  308 . 
         [0170]    It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments of brush insert, three or more concentric rings of bristles may be provided about opening of the flow passage  308 . 
         [0171]    It will further be appreciated that the brush insert may comprise any number of bristles in any arrangement about the passage. 
         [0172]    The brush insert provides in the dispenser a flow-through brush. The central passage  308  allows product to be dispensed through the brush body, out of the passage opening and into the vicinity of the bristles, where it can be applied with the bristles. These dimensions/arrangement of the bristles is such that that they take up product dispensed through passage  308 . 
         [0173]    The brush insert  300  is adapted to be received into the nozzle body  208  and retained therein.  FIGS. 42 and 43  show the inverted (pre-fill) pack ready to receive the brush insert  300 . 
         [0174]    The brush insert  300  is inserted bristle end first into the pack through its open end  212 . 
         [0175]    As seen in  FIG. 42 , the conduit  209  defined by the inner walls  210  of the nozzle body  208  is substantially conical in shape. The inner wall  210  of the nozzle body gradually decreases in diameter from the first intake end  204  adjacent the container body to the dispensing end  205  of the nozzle body. 
         [0176]    As the brush insert  300  is a placed or fed into the interior  210  of the container  201  of the pack, the inner walls of the container portion will guide the brush insert  300  into the nozzle conduit  209 . 
         [0177]    The outer diameter of the brush body  300  is smaller than the internal diameter of the intake end  204  of the nozzle body and substantially equal or slightly larger in diameter to the internal diameter of the dispensing end  205  of the nozzle body. 
         [0178]    Pressure is then applied to the end  303  of the brush insert distal to the bristles in the direction of the nozzle to force the brush insert  300  into the desired position inside the nozzle conduit  209 . 
         [0179]      FIGS. 44 and 45  shows the brush insert  300  in the desired position in the nozzle. 
         [0180]    As the outer diameter of the insert is substantially equal in diameter to or slightly larger than the internal diameter of the dispensing end  205  of the nozzle body, a tight fit inside the nozzle conduit is achieved. 
         [0181]    The brush body  300  is retained in the conduit by a frictional force between the outer wall  310  of the brush body and the inner wall  210  of the nozzle body adjacent the dispensing opening. 
         [0182]    It will be appreciated that at least a portion of the length of the bristles are arranged to protrude through the dispensing opening of the nozzle. A variation of length protruding is achieved by selecting the position of the insert of the nozzle conduit. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 44 , the entire length of bristles are arranged to protrude through the opening. 
         [0183]    Generally, it is desirable that at least a portion of the brush body also extends through the dispensing opening. This helps to prevent the bristles from being sheared off the brush body as the frangible connection between the cap and the nozzle outlet is broken (as described below). 
         [0184]    The flow passage in the brush insert provides a communication path between the product intake end of the nozzle and the dispensing opening of the nozzle adjacent the bristles. 
         [0185]    After the insert is in position inside the nozzle, the container body is then ready for filling through, and sealing along, its base  212 . 
         [0186]    Referring back to  FIGS. 36 and 37 , the break-off cap  220  is shown in a first position where the cap body  221  is integrally formed with the outlet nozzle  203  to close the dispensing opening  206  of the outlet nozzle  203 . As with previous embodiments, a frangible connection  222  is formed between the nozzle  203  and the cap  220 . 
         [0187]    In this first sealed position the portion of bristles extending beyond the frangible connection point are received into the recess  225  in the cap body. 
         [0188]    The frangible connection  222  can be broken to allow removal of the cap as shown in  FIG. 46 . The removal of the cap opens (uncovers) the bristles  304  and the dispensing opening  206  on the brush insert. It is then possible to dispense product from the container  201 . 
         [0189]    When the cap is inverted and re-engaged with the nozzle after use, in the manner described with reference to the embodiment of the container of  FIGS. 14 to 16 , the bristles protruding from the nozzle are received and sealed within a second recess or housing  229  provided at the end of the cap body opposite the first recess  225 . 
         [0190]    The embodiment of container shown in  FIGS. 36 to 46  can be used to control the application of the dispensed product. The brush can be used, for example, to spread the product across a surface. Alternatively, the brush may be used to apply a small precise amount of product to a small area. 
         [0191]    It will be appreciated that a further advantage of the brush is that it allows a controlled continuous dosage of product to be dispensed.