Tamper-evident locking systems

Description

"CLOSURE SYSTEMS WITH EVIDENCE OF VIOLATION" FIELD

[001] This disclosure relates generally to closure systems with tamper-evident features. More specifically, though not exclusively, the aspects disclosed in the present invention relate to closure systems molded for sealing beverage containers, closure systems having tamper-evident feature(s) that can be attached to a beverage container and to mold stacks, molds and molding systems for molding such closure systems, systems for punching, slitting or cutting such closure systems, systems for installing and / or attaching tamper-evident features of the closure system to a container neck, and methods associated with one or more of the aforementioned elements. BACKGROUND

[002] Containers, such as bottles, are generally equipped with closure systems, such as lids, to form a fluid seal on the container.

[003] Plastic beverage closure systems typically include four main functional elements: a tubular body, gripping feature(s), sealing feature(s), and tamper-evident feature(s). The body typically includes a top wall, usually circular, with an annular side wall that hangs from the top wall. The side wall is typically in the form of a cylindrical skirt extending perpendicularly from the periphery of the top wall. The gripping feature usually includes a screw thread or a fitting in the feature, normally formed integrally with the side wall on the inner surface thereof and adjacent to the container opening, for example, the neck of a bottle. One or more sealing features are used to seal the cap onto the bottle to prevent leakage.

[004] A known violation evidence feature includes a strip Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 43 / 290 2 / 152 connected frangibly to an open end of the tubular body of the closure system by a series of bridges. The strip may include a series of tabs connected by flexible hinges to a lower portion of the strip and extending upwards and into it. The tabs engage a lower cutting surface of an outer flange, or pilfer-type microsphere, on a container neck when the closure system is attached to it. With this arrangement, the action of unscrewing the closure system from the container for the first time causes the tabs to contact the flange, preventing further upward movement of the tabs. Continued unscrewing of the closure system beyond this point progressively puts the frangible connection under tension and breaks the bridges, thus separating the tamper-evident strip from the body of the closure system. SUMMARY

[005] The aspects of this disclosure relate generally, but not exclusively, to molded articles, and to mold stacks, molds, molding systems, systems for drilling, slotting or cutting molded articles, systems for installing and / or attaching molded articles to other articles, and methods associated with one or more of the elements mentioned above.

[006] The aspects of this disclosure relate, in particular, but not exclusively, to closure systems, and to mold stacks, molds, molding systems, systems for punching, slitting or cutting closure systems, systems for installing and / or engaging tamper-evident closure system features to a container neck, and methods associated with one or more of the aforementioned elements. The closure system may comprise a molded closure system. The closure system may comprise a polymeric closure system. The closure system may comprise a plastic closure system. The closure system may comprise a thermoplastic closure system. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 44 / 290 3 / 152

[007] According to a first broad aspect, a method is provided for attaching a molded article to another article.

[008] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system, for example, a molded and / or polymeric and / or plastic and / or thermoplastic closure system, on a container neck. The method may, but does not have to, comprise placing the closure system on the container neck. The method may, but does not have to, comprise engaging a tamper-evident feature, for example, one or more tamper-evident features, on the container neck.

[009] The method may, but does not have to, involve reshaping at least part of the closure system and / or at least part of the container neck, for example, to make the tamper-evident feature(s) engage(s) with the container neck.

[010] Another broad aspect disclosed in the present invention relates to a method for installing a molded closure system in a container neck comprising placing the closure system in the container neck and reshaping part of the closure system or container neck to cause one or more tamper-evident features to engage with the container neck.

[011] The method, or reshaping of part of the closure system, may, but does not have to, comprise deforming or shrinking part of the closure system, for example, to engage the tamper evidence feature(s) to the container neck. The method, or reshaping of part of the container neck, may, but does not have to, comprise deforming or shrinking part of the container neck, for example, to engage the tamper evidence feature(s) to the container neck.

[012] Another broad aspect refers to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the system of Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 45 / 290 4 / 152 closure at the container neck and deform or shrink part of the closure system or container neck to cause one or more tamper-evident features to engage at the container neck.

[013] Reshaping, deformation or shrinking of the closure system part may, but does not have to, include plastically reshaping, deforming or shrinking the closure system part. Reshaping, deformation or shrinking of the container neck part may, but does not have to, include plastically reshaping, deforming or shrinking the container neck part. Reshaping, deformation or shrinking of the container neck part may, but does not have to, include rolling up the closure system part.

[014] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a molded and / or thermoplastic closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and plastically reshaping, deforming or shrinking part of the closure system or container neck to cause one or more tamper-evident features to engage with the container neck.

[015] Reshaping, deformation or shrinking of the closure system or container neck part may, but does not have to, be performed with the closure system in a closed position on the container neck.

[016] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a molded and / or thermoplastic closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and reshaping, deforming or shrinking part of the closure system or container neck, with the closure system in a closed position on the container neck, to cause one or more tamper-evident features to engage with the container neck.

[017] The method may, but does not have to, involve applying heat to part of the closure system or neck of a container, for example, to deform or Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 46 / 290 5 / 152 shrinking the same and / or causing the tamper-evident feature(s) to engage(s) the container neck. The method may, but does not have to, include irradiating the closure system part or container neck, for example, to deform or shrink it and / or to cause the tamper-evident feature(s) to engage(s) the container neck. Applying heat to the closure system part or container neck may, but does not have to, include irradiating it or subjecting it to heating.

[018] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and irradiating, or applying heat to, part of the closure system or container neck to engage one or more tamper-evident features to the container neck.

[019] Heat may be differentially applied. The method may comprise radiating, or applying heat to, one side, for example, a first side, of the closure system part or container neck and not to another side, for example, a second side. The method may comprise radiating, or applying heat to, the outside of the closure system part or container neck and not to the inside, or vice versa. Preferably, the method comprises radiating, or applying heat to, the outside of the closure system part or container neck and not to the inside.

[020] Another broad aspect relates to a method for attaching a molded article to another article, wherein the method comprises irradiating, or applying heat to, a first side of the part of the molded article, without irradiating, or applying heat to, a second side of the part, opposite to the first side, in order to thereby attach the molded article to another article.

[021] The method may involve cooling the second side of the part before, after, or as heat is applied to the first side. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 47 / 290 6 / 152

[022] In some examples, applying heat to the first side may involve irradiating an external surface with a laser in order to create a predetermined temperature differential between the external surface and an internal surface on the second side.

[023] Another broad aspect relates to a method for attaching a molded article to another article, wherein the method comprises irradiating, or applying heat to, an external surface of the part of the molded article or other article, without irradiating, or applying heat to, an internal surface of the part, in order to thereby attach the molded article to another article.

[024] The method may comprise cooling the inner surface of the part, for example before, after or as the outer surface is irradiated or heat is applied to it.

[025] In other examples, applying heat to the first side may involve irradiating an inner surface with a laser so as to create a predetermined temperature differential between the inner surface and an outer surface on the second side.

[026] Another broad aspect relates to a method for attaching a molded article to another article, wherein the method comprises irradiating, or applying heat to, an inner surface of the part of the molded article or other article, without irradiating, or applying heat to, an outer surface of the part, in order to thereby attach the molded article to another article.

[027] The method may comprise cooling the outer surface of the part, for example before, after or as the inner surface is irradiated or heat is applied to it.

[028] Irradiation or the application of heat to the external or internal surface may include irradiating the surface with a laser, for example, in order to create a predetermined temperature differential between the external surface and the surface Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 48 / 290 7 / 152 internal.

[029] Cooling can be carried out with a cooling fluid, for example, a jet of fluid, such as air. The cooling fluid can, but does not have to, be cooled. The temperature of the cooling fluid can be equal to, or even above, ambient temperature.

[030] The molded article portion may comprise a coupling portion. The coupling portion may be adapted to be reshaped, for example, in a post-molding operation, when heat is differentially applied to its outer and inner surfaces.

[031] Another broad aspect refers to a molded article comprising a coupling portion that is adapted to be reshaped in a post-molding operation when heat is differentially applied to its exterior and interior surfaces.

[032] The molded article may comprise a polyalkylene terephthalate material, such as polyethylene terephthalate. In some examples, the polyethylene terephthalate material may comprise an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dl / g. In further examples, the polyethylene terephthalate material may comprise an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.7 dl / g. The polyethylene terephthalate material may comprise an intrinsic viscosity between 0.4 dl / g and 0.8 dl / g. In some examples, the polyethylene terephthalate material may comprise an intrinsic viscosity between 0.4 dl / g and 0.7 dl / g.

[033] Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material may comprise a multimodal PET. PET may be formed from a first PET having a first molecular weight. PET material may be formed from a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

[034] Additionally or alternatively, the molded article may comprise a different material or polymeric material, such as a polylactic acid material or Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 49 / 290 8 / 152 polylactide (PLA), or any other suitable material.

[035] The molded article may comprise a closure system. The other article may comprise a container neck.

[036] The part to which heat is applied may comprise a tamper-evident feature of the locking system. The coupling feature may comprise a tamper-evident feature. The tamper-evident feature may comprise a tamper-evident strip or sleeve.

[037] Alternatively, the part to which the heat is applied may comprise a portion of the container neck. The portion of the container neck may be deformed at the engagement with a tamper-evident strip of the closure system.

[038] In some examples, the molded article comprises a container neck. In such examples, the coupling portion may comprise a portion of the container neck that is deformable, for example, to engage a tamper-evident strip of a closure system.

[039] Another broad aspect relates to a method for shaping a closure system using a polyethylene terephthalate material that has an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dl / g.

[040] The polyethylene terephthalate material may comprise an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.76 dl / g. The polyethylene terephthalate material may comprise an intrinsic viscosity between 0.4 dl / g and 0.8 dl / g, for example, between 0.44 dl / g and 0.76 dl / g or between 0.4 dl / g and 0.7 dl / g. At least one tamper-evident feature of the closure system may be formed from the polyethylene terephthalate material having an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dl / g, for example, less than 0.76 dl / g or 0.7 dl / g. The tamper-evident feature may comprise a tamper-evident strip or sleeve.

[041] The intrinsic viscosity of the molded closure system, for example, after it has been molded, may be less than 0.7 dl / g or between 0.3 dl / g Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 50 / 290 9 / 152 0.7 dl / g, for example, between 0.55 dl / g and 0.7 dl / g. In some cases, the intrinsic viscosity of the molded closure system, for example, after it has been molded, may be less than 0.66 dl / g or between 0.34 dl / g and 0.66 dl / g. In other cases, the intrinsic viscosity of the molded closure system, for example, after it has been molded, may be less than 0.6 dl / g or between 0.3 dl / g and 0.6 dl / g.

[042] Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material may comprise a multimodal PET. PET may be formed from a first PET that has a first molecular weight. PET material may be formed from a second PET that has a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

[043] Another aspect relates to a closure system comprising a polyethylene terephthalate material having an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.7 dl / g.

[044] The polyethylene terephthalate material of the closure system may comprise an intrinsic viscosity between 0.3 dl / g and 0.7 dl / g. In some cases, the polyethylene terephthalate material of the closure system may comprise an intrinsic viscosity less than 0.66 dl / g or between 0.34 dl / g and 0.66 dl / g. In other cases, the polyethylene terephthalate material of the closure system may comprise an intrinsic viscosity less than 0.6 dl / g or between 0.3 dl / g and 0.6 dl / g. The closure system may comprise a tamper-evident feature, which may be formed from polyethylene terephthalate material having an intrinsic viscosity less than 0.7 dl / g. The tamper-evident feature may comprise a tamper-evident strip or sleeve.

[045] Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material may comprise a multimodal PET. PET may be formed from a first PET that has a first molecular weight. PET material may be formed from a second PET that has a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

[046] The linking of the violation evidence resource(s) to the bottleneck of Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 51 / 290 10 / 152 The method may, but does not need to, comprise irradiating or heating at least part of the container neck or closure system, for example, at least part of the tamper-evident feature(s). The method may, but does not need to, comprise reshaping, deforming, or shrinking the tamper-evident feature(s), for example, to engage the same or the same to the container neck. Additionally or alternatively, the method may, but does not need to, comprise reshaping, deforming, or shrinking the container neck, for example, to engage the same to the tamper-evident feature(s).

[047] The method may, but does not need to, comprise irradiating or applying heat to the tamper-evident device(s), for example, to reshape, deform or shrink the tamper-evident device(s) and / or to attach the same to the neck of a container. The method may, but does not need to, comprise irradiating or applying heat to the neck of a container, for example, to reshape, deform or shrink part of the neck of the container and / or to attach the same to the tamper-evident device(s).

[048] Reshaping, deforming, or shrinking the tamper-evident feature(s) may include rolling up the tamper-evident feature(s). In instances where the tamper-evident feature(s) comprise a tamper-evident strip, reshaping, deforming, or shrinking the tamper-evident feature(s) may include rolling up the tamper-evident strip, for example a free edge or portion of the free edge of the tamper-evident strip.

[049] The engagement of the tamper-evident device(s) to the container neck may comprise movable engagement of the tamper-evident device(s) to the container neck. The engagement of the tamper-evident device(s) to the container neck may inhibit the removal of the tamper-evident device(s) from the container neck when the closure system is removed from Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 52 / 290 11 / 152 of the same.

[050] However, the engagement of the tamper-evident device(s) to the container neck may allow one or more degrees of movement, for example, while simultaneously limiting at least one degree of movement. In some cases, such engagement of the tamper-evident device(s) to the container neck may allow movement or rotation between them, for example, to enable the closure system to be unscrewed from the container neck or at least rotated relative to it.

[051] It should be recognized that the engagement of the tamper-evident device to the container neck may include a form of intimate contact between them, for example, when the tamper-evident device is lowered into the container neck. In this respect, such engagement may simply involve attaching the tamper-evident device(s) to the container neck so that the tamper-evident device(s) is / are retained in the container neck and remains there when the closure system is unscrewed or otherwise opened to allow dispensing or access to the contents of the container.

[052] In other examples, the method may, but does not have to, involve welding the tamper evidence feature(s), for example, to attach the tamper evidence feature(s) to the container neck.

[053] Attaching the tamper-evident device(s) to the container neck may, but does not have to, include securing the tamper-evident device(s) to the container neck. Attaching the tamper-evident device(s) to the container neck may, but does not have to, include connecting the tamper-evident device(s) to the container neck. Attaching the tamper-evident device(s) to the container neck may, but does not have to, include securing the tamper-evident device(s) to the container neck. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 53 / 290 12 / 152

[054] The tamper-evident device, or each tamper-evident device, may be frangibly connected to the closure system, for example, so that it remains in the container neck upon removal of the closure system from the container. The tamper-evident device, or each tamper-evident device, may be frangibly connected to the closure system by a limiting line. The limiting line may be configured to break, in use, upon removal of the closure system from the container neck, for example, thus causing the tamper-evident device to remain in the container neck.

[055] Alternatively, the tamper evidence feature, or each tamper evidence feature, may be configured to remain in the closure system upon removal of the closure system from the container neck. In such cases, the tamper evidence feature, or each tamper evidence feature, may be configured to deform, for example, mechanically, upon removal of the closure system or upon initial removal of the closure system.

[056] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and irradiating, or applying heat to, one or more tamper-evident features to engage the tamper-evident feature(s) to the container neck.

[057] The method may comprise irradiating, or applying heat to, at least part of a circumference of the closure system, for example, to engage the tamper-evident feature(s) to the neck of the container over at least part of its circumference.

[058] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and irradiating, or applying heat to, part of the system. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 54 / 290 13 / 152 closure or neck of container over at least part of its circumference to engage one or more tamper-evident features to the neck of the container over at least part of the circumference of the closure or neck of the container.

[059] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and irradiating, or applying heat to, one or more tamper-evident features over at least part of a circumference of the closure system to engage the tamper-evident feature(s) to the container neck over at least part of its circumference, wherein at least part of the tamper-evident feature, or of each tamper-evident feature, is configured to be broken, in use, from the closure system upon removal of the closure system from the container neck, thereby causing the tamper-evident feature to remain on the container neck.

[060] The method may comprise generating a visual indicator when the closure system or container neck is reshaped, which may be indicative of the reshaping. The method may comprise crystallizing the reshaped part of the closure system or container neck, for example, by applying heat. The crystallization may be or provide the visual indicator. The method may comprise changing a color or opacity of the reshaped part of the closure system or container neck, wherein, for example, the color is or provides the visual indicator. The method may comprise providing the closure system or the part of the closure system to be reshaped with an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period. The method may comprise providing the container or the part of the container to be reshaped with an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period.The additive may include a light-sensitive additive. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 55 / 290 14 / 152

[061] The violation evidence resource(s) may be in the closure system, or may be part of it.

[062] Another broad aspect disclosed in the present invention relates to a closure system, for example, for sealing a neck opening of a container. The closure system may comprise a top wall. The closure system may comprise a side wall or cylindrical skirt, hereinafter in this document: cylindrical skirt. The cylindrical skirt may depend on the top wall. The closure system may comprise a tamper-evident feature. The tamper-evident feature may be connected to the closure system, for example, to the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident feature may, but does not have to, be frangibly connected to the closure system, for example, to the cylindrical skirt.

[063] At least part of the cylindrical skirt and / or tamper-evident feature may comprise an inner surface. In some instances, the inner surface has one or more engagement features, such as tabs or grooves. In other instances, the inner surface is substantially cylindrical and / or indefinite. The inner surface may, but does not have to, be indefinite and / or devoid of engagement features, for example, to enable a container neck engagement feature to be received therein in a free manner. The engagement feature may comprise a flange. The tamper-evident feature may comprise a tamper-evident strip.

[064] Another broad aspect relates to a closure system, for example, for sealing a neck opening of a container, wherein the closure system comprises an upper wall, a cylindrical skirt that depends on the upper wall and an annular tamper-evident strip connected frangibly to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident strip comprises a substantially cylindrical inner surface that is undefined and / or Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 56 / 290 15 / 152 lacking coupling features to allow a coupling feature, for example, a flange, from the neck of the container to be received in a substantially free manner.

[065] The tamper-evident device may, but does not have to, be connected to the closure system, for example, to the cylindrical skirt by a limiting line or by a membrane.

[066] Another broad aspect relates to a closure system, for example, for sealing a neck opening of a container, wherein the closure system comprises an upper wall, a cylindrical skirt that depends on the upper wall and an annular tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt by a limiting line or a membrane, wherein the tamper-evident strip comprises a substantially cylindrical inner surface that is undefined and / or devoid of engagement features to enable an engagement feature, for example, a flange, of the container neck to be received thereon in a free manner.

[067] The tamper-evident strip may be substantially free of residual circumferential stress. The tamper-evident strip may be molded from a substantially cylindrical outer surface of a core to inhibit internal stresses in the molded tamper-evident strip.

[068] The closure system may comprise or be formed from polyethylene terephthalate.

[069] The inventors determined that omitting and / or minimizing the radial extension of conventional engagement features, such as flanges or tabs, from the tamper-evident strip during the molding stage is advantageous for demolding and capping. More particularly, when bridges are molded in a closure system, the action of forcing such engagement features into the core part of the mold during demolding can stress the bridges, since it can force the Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 57 / 290 16 / 152 same in the microsphere of evidence of violation of the container neck during capping. These phenomena can be particularly problematic when the closure system is formed from a polyethylene terephthalate material, due to its inherent mechanical properties. Thus, the omission and / or reduction of such features reduces the complexity of demolding and capping, particularly for closure systems formed from a polyethylene terephthalate material.

[070] Furthermore, the inventors have also determined that applying heat to the tamper-evident feature(s) will cause it / them to deform in predetermined ways, enabling such features to be configured to engage the neck of a container by such application of heat. By way of example, the inventors have determined that the free-end portion of a tamper-evident strip will normally contract if heat is applied to its outer surface in that region. Without adhering to any particular theory, the inventors believe that the deformation or shrinkage of the tamper-evident features resulting from the application of heat to them is due to the temperature difference between the heated outer region and the unheated inner region. Tests have been conducted that support this theory, whereby heat applied to an inner region of the tamper-evident strip caused it to expand or curl outward.The inventors also believe that the adjacent region of the container neck can act as a heat sink, since the tamper-evident strip comes into contact with this region during its contraction, further intensifying its effect.

[071] Another broad aspect relates to a closure system for sealing a neck opening of a container, wherein the closure system comprises an upper wall, a cylindrical skirt that depends on the upper wall and an annular tamper-evident strip connected to the skirt. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 58 / 290 17 / 152 cylindrical by a membrane, the closure system being made from polyethylene terephthalate.

[072] The membrane may have a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the tamper-evident feature and / or the cylindrical skirt. The membrane may be configured to be perforated or cut into slits, for example, to provide a frangible connection or limit line between the tamper-evident feature and the closure system or the cylindrical skirt. In some examples, the membrane has one or more localized regions of greater thickness. The membrane may have one or more ribs, which may be thicker or have a radial wall thickness that is greater than that of the rest of the membrane. The thickness of the rib, or of each rib, may be similar to or substantially equal to the thickness of the tamper-evident strip.

[073] One or more ribs may comprise a plurality of ribs, wherein, for example, the membrane is configured to be cut, in use, between the ribs. The ribs may be configured to provide bridges, for example, frangible bridges, which join the tamper-evident strip to the cylindrical skirt.

[074] One or more ribs may comprise a single rib. The membrane may be configured to be perforated or cut into slits, for example, to provide a frangible connection or limiting line between the tamper-evident feature and the closure system or cylindrical skirt. The single rib may be configured to provide a tie rod, for example, to retain the closure system at the neck of a container.

[075] Providing a molded membrane in the closure system that is to be demolded and subsequently capped, instead of molded bridges in the closure system, can further mitigate these problems related to the use of polyethylene terephthalate material in closure systems. The membrane can then be cut into slits after capping to provide a connection. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 59 / 290 18 / 152 frangible.

[076] The membrane or frangible connection or bridges may be substantially cylindrical or extend axially. The membrane or frangible connection or bridges may be substantially aligned and / or parallel to the cylindrical skirt or tamper-evident strip.

[077] In some examples, the tamper-evident strip may be larger than the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident strip may have a diameter that is larger than that of the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident strip may be connected, for example, frangibly connected, to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane or frangible connection or one or more bridges extending radially and / or axially. The membrane or frangible connection or one or more bridges may extend at an angle to either the radial or axial direction. The tamper-evident strip may be connected, for example, frangibly connected, to the cylindrical skirt by a radial membrane or one or more radial bridges. The tamper-evident strip may be connected to the cylindrical skirt by a conical or frustoconical membrane.

[078] The evidence of tampering may comprise one or more tabs. The evidence of tampering strip may comprise one or more tabs, for example, included, described or defined therein. The tab, or each tab, may be deformable or may be hinged to the evidence of tampering strip. The tab, or each tab, may be hinged along one of its edges, for example, a first edge. The tab, or each tab, may be connected to the evidence of tampering strip only along the hinged edge or first edge. The tab, or each tab, may have a reduced wall thickness. The method may comprise deforming, reshaping, shrinking, irradiating or heating the tab, or each tab, for example, so that it pivots inward around its hinged edge. Irradiating or applying heat to one or more areas of the evidence of tampering strip may comprise irradiating or applying heat to one or more tabs. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, p. 60 / 290 19 / 152

[079] One or more tamper-evident features may comprise one or more projections or notches, which may be on the tamper-evident strip, or on an interior surface thereof. The projections or notches may release the container neck when the closure system is placed on it. The method may comprise reshaping part of the closure system by shrinking the tamper-evident strip, for example, to cause the projections or notches to align with and / or engage the container neck.

[080] One or more tamper-evident features may comprise edges. The edge, or each edge, may be configured to pivot or bend along a connecting line with the tamper-evident strip, for example, as the closure system is screwed onto a container neck. The edge, or each edge, may be configured to deploy rotation of the closure system, for example, in an opposite direction, for example, from unscrewing. Once deployed, one or more edges may be configured to engage a flange of the container neck, for example, to retain the tamper-evident strip therein and / or to break the frangible connection, or a frangible connection, or bridges.

[081] Another broad aspect relates to a closure system, for example, for sealing a neck opening of a container, wherein the closure system is formed, at least partially, from polyethylene terephthalate and comprises an upper wall, a cylindrical skirt dependent on the upper wall and an annular tamper-evident strip connected frangibly to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more edges, wherein the edge, or each edge, is configured to pivot or bend along a connecting line with the tamper-evident strip as the closure system is screwed onto a container neck, and to deploy rotation of the closure system in an opposite, unscrewing direction, to thereby engage a container neck flange to retain the tamper-evident strip. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 61 / 290 20 / 152 evidence of violation in the same and breaking the frangible connection.

[082] Another broad aspect refers to a combination of a container neck and a locking system according to the immediately preceding aspect, wherein the container neck comprises a ratchet or one or more engagement features to cooperate with one or more edges to inhibit rotation of the tamper-evident strip in the rotation of the locking system in the unscrewing direction.

[083] The ratchet or one or more engagement features may comprise one or more serrations. One or more edges may comprise a plurality of edges and / or the ratchet or one or more engagement features may comprise a plurality, for example, a matching plurality, of engagement features.

[084] The method may comprise mechanically deforming part of the closure system or neck of a container to cause one or more tamper-evident features to engage with the neck of the container.

[085] In some examples, the method may comprise deforming, such as mechanically deforming, part of the closure system. The part of the closure system may comprise one or more localized regions of the closure system or the tamper-evident strip. The part of the closure system to be reshaped may be mechanically deformed to engage one or more tamper-evident features, for example, the tamper-evident strip, to the container neck. The method may comprise drilling or perforating one or more localized regions of the closure system or the tamper-evident strip, for example, to thereby deform part of the closure system or the tamper-evident strip and / or to engage the tamper-evident strip to the container neck.

[086] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck so that the tamper-evident strip does not Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 62 / 290 21 / 152 engage the container neck, and reshape at least part of the closure system or container neck while the closure system is installed on the container, in order to engage the tamper-evident strip to the container.

[087] The container may comprise a neck finish, which may comprise a mating surface. The tamper-evident strip may comprise a mating surface. The mating surface of the tamper-evident strip may release the mating surface of the neck finish when the closure system is installed on the container neck opening. The method may comprise reshaping the tamper-evident strip, for example, to cause the same mating surface to engage with the mating surface of the container neck.

[088] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck so that a mating surface of a tamper-evident strip of the closure system releases a mating surface of a neck finish from the container neck, and reshaping the tamper-evident strip to cause the mating surface thereof to engage with the mating surface of the container neck.

[089] In some examples, the closure system may be placed on the neck of the container so that the gripping features of the closure system do not engage with the neck of the container. In such examples, part of, or all of, the closure system may be reshaped. For example, heat may be applied to the entire closure system, for example, so that the entire closure system is reshaped, deformed, or diminished. The gripping features of the closure system may engage gripping features of the container neck after or as the closure system is reshaped.

[090] The method may involve remodeling an additional part of the system Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 63 / 290 22 / 152 closure, for example, to provide a gripping feature on an internal surface of the closure system to cooperate with a gripping feature of the container neck.

[091] At least one of one or more tamper-evident features may be connected, for example, connected in a non-frangible or permanent manner, to the closure system. The closure system may comprise a non-frangible connection between the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident strip may comprise a frangible line, which may be across its width or height. The frangible line of the tamper-evident strip may be close to the non-frangible connection, for example, so that the tamper-evident strip becomes a strip connected to the closure system by the non-frangible connection upon first removal, in use, of the closure system from a container neck.

[092] In some embodiments, the closure system may comprise a plurality of non-frangible connections between the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident strip may comprise a frangible line between each pair of non-frangible connections. Each frangible line may be across the width or height of the tamper-evident strip. The tamper-evident strip may be configured to be divided into multiple strips, each of which is connected to the closure system by a respective connection among the non-frangible connections upon the first removal, in use, of the closure system from a container neck.

[093] At least part of one or more tamper evidence features may be configured to remain in the closure system by removing the closure system from the container neck, for example, by virtue of the non-frangible connection. At least part of one or more tamper evidence features may remain in the closure system by removing the closure system from Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 64 / 290 23 / 152 Closing the neck of the container.

[094] The tamper-evident feature may comprise part of the cylindrical skirt. The cylindrical skirt may comprise a margin, which may be substantially flat, that describes an open end of the closure system. The tamper-evident feature(s) may comprise the margin or part of the margin.

[095] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and irradiating, or applying heat to, at least part of a margin that describes an open end of the closure system to engage or weld the margin to the container neck, wherein at least part of the margin is configured to be broken, in use, of the closure system upon removal of the closure system from the container neck, thereby causing the margin or portion of the margin to remain on the container neck.

[096] The margin or portion of margin may be engaged or welded to an engagement feature, such as a flange, of the vessel neck. The margin or portion of margin may remain on the engagement feature of the vessel neck.

[097] The method may comprise irradiating, or applying heat to, one or more areas of the tamper-evident evidence(s), for example, on its or its circumference(s), for example, to engage it(them) to the neck of a container.

[098] The closure system may comprise a tie rod, which may connect the tamper-evident feature(s) or strip(s) to the cylindrical skirt. Part of the tie rod may, but does not have to, also be frangibly connected to the tamper-evident feature(s) or strip(s) and / or to the cylindrical skirt, for example, along at least part of its length.

[099] Irradiation of, or application of heat to, one or more areas of the resource(s), or strip, of evidence of tampering may engage the same to the bottleneck of Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 65 / 290 24 / 152 container without hindering the articulation of the tie rod, for example, when removing the container neck closing system.

[0100] Irradiation of, or application of heat to, one or more areas of the tamper-evident feature(s), or strip(s), may cause one or more areas or the entire tamper-evident strip(s) to warp or shrink inward. Irradiation of, or application of heat to, one or more areas of the tamper-evident feature(s), or strip(s), may cause a bead to be created, for example, to engage a feature or coupling flange to the container neck. Irradiation of, or application of heat to, one or more areas of the tamper-evident feature(s), or strip(s), may cause a bead to be created that allows the closure system to rotate over the container neck.Irradiating, or applying heat to, one or more areas of the tamper-evident feature(s) or strip(s) can create a rim that inhibits axial movement of the tamper-evident feature(s), for example, so that the tamper-evident feature remains in the container neck when the closure system is removed from it. Irradiating, or applying heat to, one or more areas of the tamper-evident feature(s) or strip(s) can create a rim that allows the closure system to rotate relative to the container neck while axially engaging the feature or engagement flange, for example, thus inhibiting its removal from the container neck.

[0101] The bezel may be continuous or substantially continuous. For example, the bezel may be provided by a deformed, reshaped, or diminished annulus of the tamper-evident strip. Alternatively, the bezel may be discontinuous and / or may be provided by two or more tamper-evident features that may be spaced around the circumference of the closure system and / or the tamper-evident strip. The two or more tamper-evident features may comprise localized regions or tabs, for example, the localized regions or tabs Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 66 / 290 25 / 152 previously mentioned.

[0102] In some examples, irradiation of, or application of heat to, tamper-evident feature(s), or strip(s), may comprise welding the tamper-evident feature(s), or strip(s), to the neck of a container.

[0103] The tamper-evident feature(s) may comprise a tamper-evident panel. The tamper-evident panel may be included in, described in, or defined on the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident panel may, but does not have to, be frangibly connected to a surrounding portion of the cylindrical skirt, for example, by a limiting line. The method may comprise welding the tamper-evident panel to the neck of the container.

[0104] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and irradiating, or applying heat to, at least part of a tamper-evident panel included, described or defined in the closure system to weld the panel to the container neck, wherein at least part of the tamper-evident panel is frangibly connected to a surrounding portion of the closure system by a limiting line such that the same remains on the container neck upon removal of the closure system from the same.

[0105] The tamper-evident strip may comprise a film or a metallic foil, for example, a tamper-evident film or metallic foil. The tamper-evident film or metallic foil may have a radial wall thickness that is similar to or slightly greater than the bridges or membrane that joins it to the cylindrical skirt. In some examples, the tamper-evident strip comprises a film or a metallic foil or a membrane that can be directly attached to the cylindrical skirt.

[0106] The method, or remodeling of part of the closing system, can, Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 67 / 290 26 / 152 but does not need to involve deforming or shrinking the tamper-evident film, foil, or membrane, for example, to attach the tamper-evident feature(s) to the neck of a container. The tamper-evident film, foil, or membrane may be deformed or shrunk by any means described in the present invention.

[0107] Another broad aspect relates to a closure system for sealing a neck opening of a container, wherein the closure system comprises an upper wall and a cylindrical skirt that depends on the upper wall, wherein the cylindrical skirt comprises a tamper-evident panel included, described or defined therein that is frangibly connected to a surrounding portion of the cylindrical skirt by a limiting line.

[0108] The tamper-evident panel may have a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the surrounding portion of the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident panel may have a bottom edge that outlines part of the margin of the cylindrical skirt.

[0109] Another broad aspect relates to the provision of a closure system for sealing a neck opening of a container, wherein the closure system comprises an upper wall and a cylindrical skirt that depends on the upper wall and that has a substantially flat margin that describes an open end of the closure system, wherein the cylindrical skirt comprises an included tamper-evident panel described or defined therein that has a bottom edge that describes part of the substantially flat margin and a radial wall thickness that is less than that of a surrounding portion of the cylindrical skirt.

[0110] At least part of the tamper-evident feature(s), for example, at least part of the tamper-evident strip, tab or panel, may have a radial wall thickness that is 0.6 mm or less, for example, 0.5 mm or Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 68 / 290 27 / 152 less, such as 0.4 mm or less, or even 0.3 mm or less (where "or less" is a practically minimum radial wall thickness that is not zero, for example, 0.05 mm).

[0111] At least one of the tamper-evident feature(s), for example, the tamper-evident strip, may comprise one or more hardened portions or regions. At least one of the tamper-evident feature(s), for example, the tamper-evident strip, may comprise one or more weakened portions or regions. One or more of the hardened portions or regions may comprise a radial wall thickness, which may be greater than the radial wall thickness of at least one portion, for example, the remainder of and / or the weakened portion(s) or region(s) of the tamper-evident feature(s), or strip.

[0112] The hardened portion(s) or region(s) and / or weakened portion(s) or region(s) can be configured to cause or encourage preferential deformation, for example, when at least part of the closure system or container neck is reshaped. The hardened portion(s) or region(s) and / or weakened portion(s) or region(s) can be configured to cause or encourage preferential deformation when at least part of the closure system or container neck is irradiated and / or when the laser is directed at it.

[0113] The weakened portion(s) or region(s) may be configured to deform preferentially, for example, in relation to the hardened portion(s) or region(s), when irradiated and / or when the laser is directed at them.

[0114] At least one of the tamper-evident features, for example, the tamper-evident strip, may comprise a first annular portion and / or a second annular portion. The first annular portion may be connected to the cylindrical skirt. The second annular portion may depend on the first annular portion. A Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 69 / 290 28 / 152 The second annular portion may have a radial wall thickness that is smaller than that of the first annular portion.

[0115] The second annular portion can be configured to deform preferentially, for example, in relation to the first annular portion, when the latter is irradiated and / or when the laser is directed at it.

[0116] The hardened portion(s) or region(s) may comprise or provide the first annular portion. The first annular portion may comprise or provide the hardened portion(s). The weakened portion(s) or region(s) may comprise or provide the second annular portion. The second annular portion may comprise or provide the weakened portion(s) or region(s).

[0117] The hardened portion(s) or region(s), or the first annular portion, may comprise one or more hardening features, elements, or formations. The hardening feature, element, or formation, or each hardening feature, element, or formation, may comprise a rib, protrusion, or ripple. The weakened portion(s) or region(s) may comprise one or more weakening features, elements, or formations. The weakening feature, element, or formation, or each weakening feature, element, or formation, may comprise a groove, recess, or depression. In some examples, at least one of the tampering evidence feature(s), for example, the tampering evidence strip, comprises an axial or circumferential groove.

[0118] In some instances, at least one of the tamper-evident features, for example, the tamper-evident strip, comprises a circumferential groove between the first and second annular portions.

[0119] The inner surface of the first annular portion may be substantially contiguous and / or have substantially the same diameter or diameter Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 70 / 290 29 / 152 substantially continuous with respect to the second annular portion. A radial step may be formed between the first and second annular portions, for example, on an outer surface thereof, which may be the result of or provide the difference in radial wall thicknesses.

[0120] Additionally or alternatively, the outer surface of the first annular portion may be substantially contiguous and / or have substantially the same diameter or a substantially continuous diameter with respect to the second annular portion. A radial step may be formed between the first and second annular portions, for example, on an inner surface thereof, which may be the result of or provide the difference in radial wall thicknesses.

[0121] The method may comprise irradiating, or directing, the laser beam onto, or along, at least part of the circumference of the second annular portion, for example, to engage the tamper-evident strip to a container neck flange.

[0122] Without adhering to any particular theory, the inventors found that providing a second, thinner annular portion tends to result in more reliable winding of the tamper-evident strip. Providing a second, thinner annular portion also makes it possible to reduce the weight of the locking system.

[0123] The radial wall thickness of the second annular portion may be at least 10% less than that of the first annular portion, for example, at least 20% less than that of the first annular portion. The radial wall thickness of the second annular portion may be between 40% and 90% of the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion, for example, between 50% and 80% of the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion.

[0124] Alternatively, the second annular portion may have an axial height that is at least 50% of the axial height of the first annular portion, by Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 71 / 290 30 / 152 For example, at least 80% of the axial height of the first annular portion. The second annular portion may have an axial height that is at least equal to the axial height of the first annular portion. The axial height of the second annular portion may be less than 3 times that of the first annular portion, for example, around 2.5 or 2.2 times that of the first annular portion. The axial height of the second annular portion may be between 0.5 and 3 times that of the first annular portion, for example, between 0.8 and 2.5 or between 1 and 2.5 times that of the first annular portion. In some cases, the axial height of the second annular portion is between 1 and 2.2 times that of the first annular portion.

[0125] The second annular portion may have an axial height that is at least 25% of the total axial height of the violation evidence strip, for example, at least 40% of the total axial height of the violation evidence strip. The second annular portion may have an axial height that is at least 50% of the total axial height of the violation evidence strip. The axial height of the second annular portion may be less than 75% of the total axial height of the violation evidence strip, for example, at most around 70% of the total axial height of the violation evidence strip. The axial height of the second annular portion may be between 25% and 75% of the total axial height of the violation evidence strip, for example, between 40% and 70% or between 50% and 70% of the total axial height of the violation evidence strip.

[0126] At least part of the tie rod may be included, described or defined in or by the tamper evidence strip, for example, the first annular portion thereof. The tie rod may be described, at least partially, by the first annular portion. Additionally or alternatively, at least part of the tie rod may be included, described or defined in or by the cylindrical skirt.

[0127] At least part of the first annular portion of the tamper-evident strip may have a radial wall thickness that is 0.6 mm or less, for example, 0.5 mm or less. At least part of the first annular portion of the tamper-evident strip may have a radial wall thickness that is 0.4 mm or Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 72 / 290 31 / 152 less, for example, 0.3 mm or less.

[0128] Irradiating, or applying heat to, part of the closure system or the tamper-evident feature(s) or the edge may comprise irradiating part of the closure system and / or the tamper-evident feature(s) or the edge with electromagnetic energy. Alternatively, irradiating, or applying heat to, part of the closure system or the tamper-evident feature(s) or the edge may comprise positioning the part of the closure system to be remodeled or the tamper-evident feature(s) or the edge on, against, or adjacent to a heating element.

[0129] The method may comprise positioning the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped or one or more tamper-evident features against or adjacent to a heating element, for example, to apply heat to them and to cause one or more tamper-evident features to engage with the container neck.

[0130] The method may comprise rotating a tamper-evident strip of the locking system as heat is applied to it by the heating element. The method may comprise laminating the tamper-evident strip along the heating element.

[0131] The method may comprise irradiating, or applying heat to, at least part of a circumference of the closure system, for example, to engage the tamper-evident feature(s) to the neck of a container over at least part of its circumference.

[0132] In some examples, the method may comprise rotating the closure system and / or the container, for example, as the tamper-evident feature(s) is / are irradiated or heated. Rotation of the closure system and / or container may result in irradiation of, or application of heat to, at least part of the circumference of the closure system, for example, to Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, p. 73 / 290 32 / 152 Engage the tamper-evident feature(s) to the container neck over at least part of its circumference. Rotation of the closure system and / or container may comprise causing means of transport, such as a conveyor, to engage one side of the container or container neck. The means of transport may engage the container neck adjacent to and / or immediately below a support ring or protrusion. Alternatively, the means of transport may engage a side wall of a container body. The means of transport may comprise a first means of transport. An additional means of transport or second means of transport, for example, an additional conveyor or second conveyor, may engage an opposite side of the container or container neck.The additional or secondary means of transport may be stationary or may move in a direction opposite to the primary means of transport, for example, so as to cause the locking system and / or the container to rotate.

[0133] The method may comprise transporting the container or container neck, for example, with the closure system installed thereon. The method may comprise transporting the container or container neck along a transport direction. The means of transport or carrier, for example, the first and / or second means of transport or carriers, or even an additional means of transport or carrier, may transport the container or container neck, for example, along the transport direction. The method may comprise transporting, for example, along a transport direction, a plurality of closure systems, each in a respective container neck. The method may comprise radiating part of each closure system simultaneously.The substantially flat laser beam can be directed along part of the circumference of a tamper-evident strip of the closure system, for example, to engage the tamper-evident strip to a container neck flange. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 74 / 290 33 / 152

[0134] The method may comprise directing a substantially flat laser beam along part of the circumference of a tamper-evident closure system strip, for example, to cause part of the tamper-evident strip, for example, a free edge or portion of the free edge thereof, to curl inward to engage the container neck flange.

[0135] When the tamper-evident strip comprises first and second annular portions, the substantially flat laser beam may be directed along part of the circumference of the second annular portion. This may cause part of the tamper-evident strip or the second annular portion thereof to engage the tamper-evident strip to a container neck flange. This may cause part of the tamper-evident strip or the second annular portion thereof, for example, a free edge or free edge portion thereof, to curl inward to engage the container neck flange.

[0136] The method may comprise supporting a radial support flange of the container neck. The method may comprise engaging opposite sides of a container body that depends on the container neck, for example, while the radial support flange is supported. The method may comprise engaging opposite sides of a container body to transport the container along the transport direction and / or to rotate the container and closure system as it is transported along the transport direction.

[0137] The method may comprise engaging opposite sides of a container body using a pair of carriers. Each carrier may engage the container body at a different axial location.

[0138] The method may comprise detecting the presence of one or more containers, for example, that are transported along the means of transport or the conveyor. The method may comprise detecting the presence of one or more containers upstream and / or downstream of the reshaping means. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 75 / 290 34 / 152

[0139] The method may comprise irradiating the tamper-evident feature(s) using more than one, for example, a plurality of, electromagnetic energy sources. The sources may be distributed over the closure system, for example, uniformly distributed over the closure system. The method may comprise irradiating or applying heat to two or more, for example, a plurality of, sides of the closure system, for example, to engage the tamper-evident feature(s) on two or more sides of the container neck.

[0140] Irradiation or application of heat to the tamper-evident device(s) may involve directing electromagnetic energy toward a contact interface between the closure system, for example, the tamper-evident device(s), and the container neck. In such cases, the closure system is preferably formed from a different material or type of material than the container neck. For example, the closure system may be formed from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and the container neck may be formed from polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0141] The closure system may comprise a different material from the container neck. The closure system may comprise polyethylene, for example, high-density polyethylene.

[0142] Irradiating the violation evidence resource(s) with electromagnetic energy may involve directing electromagnetic energy at or through the violation evidence resource(s).

[0143] Irradiating the evidence of tampering with electromagnetic energy may involve directing a laser or laser beam at it / them. The laser or laser beam may have a power between 10 W and 400 W, preferably between 20 W and 350 W. The power of the laser or laser beam may decrease during irradiation, for example, within the ranges mentioned above. For example, the laser power may be 400 W or 350 W initially and then decrease. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 76 / 290 35 / 152 gradually to 150 W or 100 W as the closure system or container neck is irradiated. Other arrangements are also considered. The method may comprise irradiating the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped or the tamper evidence feature(s) for less than 2 seconds, for example, 1 second or less. In some examples, the method may comprise irradiating the part of the closure system or container to be reshaped or the tamper evidence feature(s) for between 0.2 seconds and 0.8 seconds, for example, between 0.3 seconds and 0.7 seconds or between 0.4 seconds and 0.6 seconds. In examples where the closure system and / or container neck is or are irradiated by a single laser and / or rotated, the irradiation time may be longer than in examples where the same is or are irradiated by multiple lasers.

[0144] The method may involve using one or more optical devices, for example, to modify one or more characteristics of electromagnetic energy or laser.

[0145] Another broad aspect relates to a method for attaching a molded article to another article, wherein the method comprises irradiating a part of the molded article with electromagnetic energy after modifying one or more characteristics of the electromagnetic energy using one or more optical devices.

[0146] Another broad aspect relates to a method for attaching a molded article to another article, wherein the method comprises irradiating a part of the molded article with a laser after modifying one or more laser characteristics using one or more optical devices.

[0147] One or more optical devices may comprise one or more lenses, prisms or mirrors.

[0148] The method may involve using one or more lenses, for example, to restrict or amplify electromagnetic energy or laser. The method may Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 77 / 290 36 / 152 comprising using one or more lenses to restrict or amplify electromagnetic or laser energy along at least one geometric axis or plane. At least one of the lenses may comprise a telescope. The method may comprise using one or more telescopes, for example, to restrict or amplify electromagnetic or laser energy. The method may comprise using one or more telescopes to restrict or amplify electromagnetic or laser energy along at least one geometric axis or plane. The method may comprise using a convex or focusing lens, for example, to restrict or focus electromagnetic or laser energy, for example, towards the evidence of tampering. The method may comprise using a concave or diverging lens, for example, to amplify or spread electromagnetic or laser energy.The method may involve using a convex lens or focusing lens and a concave lens or diverging lens, for example, to provide one or more desired characteristics of the electromagnetic energy or laser.

[0149] The method may comprise using one or more prisms, for example, to redirect and / or refract electromagnetic energy or laser. The prism, or each prism, may comprise a polygonal prism, for example, with three or more sides or faces. The prism, or each prism, may comprise a polygonal prism with at least ten sides or faces. In some examples, the polygonal prism includes 18 or more sides. The prism, or at least one prism, may comprise a non-polygonal shape or any shape configured to provide the necessary optical effect. The method may comprise using one or more prisms with one or more lenses, for example, to provide one or more desired characteristics of the electromagnetic energy or laser before the electromagnetic energy is directed at or through the tamper-evident feature(s).

[0150] The method may comprise using one or more reflectors or mirrors, hereinafter referred to in this document as mirror(s), to reflect electromagnetic energy. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 78 / 290 37 / 152 or the laser to irradiate one or more, for example, a plurality of, closure systems or bottlenecks of tamper-evident container(s). The method may comprise using one or more mirrors with one or more lenses and / or one or more prisms, for example, to provide one or more desired characteristics of the electromagnetic energy or laser before the electromagnetic energy is directed onto or through the tamper-evident feature(s).

[0151] The mirror, or at least one mirror, may be polygonal. The mirror, or at least one mirror, may comprise a non-polygonal shape or any shape configured to provide the necessary optical effect. The method may comprise partitioning, with the mirror, or at least one mirror, the electromagnetic energy or laser into two or more beams, each intended to irradiate a respective molded article, locking system or tamper-evident feature. The method may comprise rotating the mirror, for example, relative to the source. The rotational speed of the mirror may cause two or more beams to follow a movement of the molded article, locking system or tamper-evident feature. The method may comprise equipping the mirror with a substantially linear or planar electromagnetic energy beam, for example, a planar laser beam.The method may comprise rotating the mirror at a speed that generates a substantially continuous or substantially contiguous and linear or planar beam of electromagnetic energy, for example, a planar laser beam. The method may comprise rotating the mirror at a speed that provides a substantially linear or planar beam of electromagnetic energy, for example, a planar laser beam.

[0152] The method may comprise irradiating part of each of a plurality of closure systems, each in a respective container neck, simultaneously, for example, as they are transported along a transport direction, with a substantially planar or linear laser beam. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 79 / 290 38 / 152 The substantially flat laser beam can be directed along part of the circumference of a tamper-evident strip of the closure system, for example, to engage the tamper-evident strip to a container neck flange.

[0153] The lens, or at least one lens, may comprise a scanning lens. The scanning lens may comprise a flat-field scanning lens or an f-Theta scanning lens. The method may comprise altering, for example, with the lens, or at least one lens, such as the scanning lens, one or more beam characteristics. The beam characteristic(s) may be altered to provide a substantially flat focal spot. The scanning lens may be intended to endow the substantially flat laser beam with a substantially flat focal spot along the transport direction. The method may comprise using the lens, or at least one lens, for example, the scanning lens, to provide more continuous resolution and / or intensity, for example, across a plane along which irradiated closure systems are situated.

[0154] The method may comprise directing the electromagnetic or laser energy beam through the lens or scanning lens before irradiating the closure system. The method may comprise directing the substantially linear or planar electromagnetic energy beam or planar laser beam through the lens or scanning lens before irradiating the closure system.

[0155] The method may comprise directing the laser into a closure system that passes between the laser and the mirror, or at least a mirror.

[0156] The mirror, or at least one mirror, may be concave. The concave mirror may be mounted adjacent to the molded article or closure system or tamper-evident feature. The concave mirror may be mounted on an opposite side of the molded article or closure system or tamper-evident feature relative to the source. The method may comprise reflecting, with the Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 80 / 290 39 / 152 concave mirror, electromagnetic energy, for example, a laser beam, or a portion thereof, back toward the molded article or locking system or tamper-evident feature. The method may comprise moving the concave mirror with the molded article or locking system or tamper-evident feature.

[0157] The mirror, or at least one mirror, may be configured to move, in use, with a locking system on the conveyor to thereby reflect a portion of a laser beam emitted from the laser towards the locking system. The mirror, or at least one mirror, may be stationary or configured to remain stationary, in use, as a locking system on the conveyor moves along it.

[0158] The mirror, or at least one mirror, may comprise one or more peaks and / or depressions, for example, a series of alternating peaks and depressions. At least one peak, or each peak, may comprise a pair of opposing flanks. The flank, or at least one flank or each flank, may be substantially smooth or flat. Alternatively, the flank, or at least one flank or each flank, may be curved, concave, convex, sinusoidal, or have any other suitable shape. The peaks and depressions, or at least some of the peaks and depressions in the series, may be substantially identical. Additionally or alternatively, the peaks and depressions, or at least some of the peaks and depressions in the series, may vary, for example, they may vary in amplitude or any other characteristic.

[0159] At least one of the one or more optical devices may comprise a free-form reflective or refractive surface. At least one of the lens, prism or mirror may comprise a free-form lens, prism or mirror. At least one of the free-form surface, lens or prism may be adjustable, for example, dynamically, to change its optical characteristics. The free-form surface, lens or prism may be intended to spread the Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, p. 81 / 290 40 / 152 laser emitted by the source.

[0160] In some examples, the optical device is configured to shape or alter or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam. The optical device may be configured to shape or alter or modify the horizontal or vertical intensity distribution of the laser beam. The horizontal intensity distribution may be along the transport medium or carrier, or at least one transport medium or carrier. The horizontal intensity distribution may be along the transport direction or a direction of movement of one or more containers or container necks, which may include the closure system installed thereon. The vertical intensity distribution may include an intensity distribution along an axial direction of the closure system and / or container.The vertical intensity distribution may comprise an intensity distribution along a direction corresponding to, or substantially parallel to, the geometric axis, or a geometric axis, of the enclosure system and / or container. The horizontal direction may be substantially orthogonal to the vertical direction.

[0161] The optical device can be configured to shape or alter or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam along the transport direction or a movement direction of one or more containers or container necks, which may include the closure system installed thereon. The optical device can be configured to shape or alter or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam along an axial direction of the closure system and / or container. The optical device can be configured to shape or alter or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam along a lateral direction and / or a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the closure system and / or container. The optical device can be configured to shape or alter or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam to Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 82 / 290 41 / 152 along a direction corresponding to or substantially parallel to the geometric axis, or a geometric axis, of the closure system and / or container. The optical device may be configured to shape or alter or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam along a direction substantially perpendicular to the geometric axis, or a geometric axis, of the closure system and / or container.

[0162] The optical device can be configured to shape or alter or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam to focus it on a predetermined region of the closure system or tamper-evident strip, for example, a lower or free end, or end portion thereof. In instances where the laser beam is used to create a gripping feature, the optical device can be configured to shape or alter or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam to focus it on a predetermined region of the cylindrical skirt of the closure system.

[0163] The method may comprise shaping the closure system, for example, before it is placed in the container. The method may comprise creating, during the molding process, internal stresses in the part of the closure system or tamper-evident feature that is reshaped.

[0164] Another broad aspect relates to a method for shaping a closure system configured to be reshaped, at least in part, to engage a container neck, wherein the method comprises creating, during the molding process, internal stresses in the part of the closure system to be reshaped.

[0165] The method may comprise stretching or expanding the part of the closure system to be reshaped during or after the molding process. The method may comprise subjecting an interior surface of the part of the closure system to be reshaped to a cooling temperature that is substantially different from a cooling temperature to which an exterior surface of the Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 83 / 290 42 / 152 is submitted. The part of the locking system to be remodeled may comprise one or more tamper-evident features, for example, the tamper-evident strip.

[0166] Another broad aspect refers to a mold stack. The mold stack may comprise a molding configuration, for example, describing a cavity for molding a thermoplastic closure system to seal a neck opening of a container. The mold stack may include one or more molding surfaces describing features of a closure system resulting from the molding process, referred to hereinafter in this document as the resulting closure system.

[0167] The closure system may comprise an upper wall. The closure system may comprise a cylindrical skirt, which may depend on the upper wall. The closure system may comprise an annular tamper-evident strip, which may be connected to the cylindrical skirt.

[0168] The mold stack can be configured to stretch or expand radially the tamper-evident strip in use.

[0169] Another broad aspect relates to a mold stack comprising a molding configuration describing a cavity for molding a thermoplastic closure system for sealing a neck opening of a container, wherein the closure system comprises a top wall, a cylindrical skirt dependent on the top wall and an annular tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the mold stack is configured to stretch or expand, in use, radially the tamper-evident strip.

[0170] Another broad aspect relates to a thermoplastic closure system for sealing a neck opening of a container, wherein the closure system comprises an upper wall, a cylindrical skirt dependent on the upper wall and an attached annular tamper-evident strip. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 84 / 290 43 / 152 to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident strip comprises a substantially cylindrical inner surface having one or more recesses therein which are formed by one or more corresponding projections of a mold core such that the tamper-evident strip stretches or expands radially in use as it is propelled out of the mold core after molding.

[0171] The tamper-evident strip may comprise a substantially cylindrical inner surface, which may have one or more recesses therein. The one or more recesses may be formed by one or more corresponding projections of a mold core, for example, so that the tamper-evident strip stretches or expands radially in use as it is propelled out of the mold core after molding.

[0172] The evidence strip of tampering with the closure system may contain internal stress in the same as a result of stretching or expansion of the same after molding.

[0173] Another broad aspect relates to a thermoplastic closure system for sealing a neck opening of a container, wherein the closure system comprises an upper wall, a cylindrical skirt dependent on the upper wall and an annular tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident strip comprises internal stress thereon as a result of stretching or expansion thereof after molding.

[0174] Another broad aspect refers to packaging comprising the closure system fitted to the neck of a container, wherein one free end of the tamper-evident strip is bent inward to create a rim for engaging a flange on the container neck.

[0175] The part of the closure system or bottleneck of a container to be remodeled or one or more tamper-evident features that is or are Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 85 / 290 44 / 152 remodeled may comprise one or more ribs. The one or more ribs may be on an internal or external surface of the part of the closure system or container neck to be remodeled or of one or more tamper-evident features that is remodeled. The one or more ribs may comprise one or more axial ribs and / or may extend axially or along a geometric axis, for example, a primary geometric axis, of the closure system. The part of the closure system or container neck to be remodeled or of one or more tamper-evident features that is remodeled may comprise a reheating agent, for example, to increase its heat absorption.The part of the container closure system or neck to be remodeled, or one or more tamper-evident features that are being remodeled, may comprise a surface finish, which may be configured to increase its heat absorption.

[0176] The method may comprise drilling, slitting, or cutting the closure system, the cylindrical skirt, the tamper-evident feature, or the membrane that joins the tamper-evident feature to the closure system or the cylindrical skirt. The drilling, slitting, or cutting may be intended to provide, or may provide, a frangible connection, or a frangible connection, or limiting line between the tamper-evident feature and the closure system or the cylindrical skirt.

[0177] The method may comprise drilling, slitting, or cutting the cylindrical skirt, the tamper-evident feature, or the membrane before, during, or after irradiation or application of heat to the tamper-evident feature(s). The method may comprise drilling, slitting, or cutting the membrane while the closure system is installed on the container neck.

[0178] Another broad aspect refers to a method for creating a frangible connection between a closure system, which may comprise or be formed by Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 86 / 290 45 / 152 made from polyethylene terephthalate, and a tamper-evident feature thereof, the method comprising perforating, cutting slits or cutting a membrane that joins the tamper-evident feature to the closure system, to thereby provide a frangible connection or limiting line between them.

[0179] The method may comprise drilling, slitting, or cutting the cylindrical skirt, the tamper-evident feature, or the membrane. The method is not particularly limited and may include, for example, using one or more points or a serrated blade or surface. Alternatively, in a further example, the method may comprise drilling, slitting, or cutting the cylindrical skirt, the tamper-evident feature, or the membrane using a laser or laser cutter.

[0180] Drilling, slitting, or membrane cutting may be performed before or after mechanical deformation of one or more localized regions of the closure system portion or neck of the container or tamper evidence feature(s) to be reshaped, or simultaneously thereon. Drilling, slitting, or membrane cutting may be performed before or after heating the closure system portion or neck of the container or tamper evidence feature(s) to be reshaped, or simultaneously thereon.

[0181] Another broad aspect relates to a system, for example, a system for installing, engaging one or more tamper-evident features of a closure system to a container bottleneck. The system may, but does not have to, comprise a reshaping element. The system may, but does not have to, be operable to cause the reshaping element to reshape part of the closure system or container bottleneck or the tamper-evident feature(s), for example, to engage the tamper-evident feature(s) to the container bottleneck.

[0182] Another broad aspect refers to a system for engaging one or more Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 87 / 290 46 / 152 evidence of tampering with a closure system, for example, a molded or thermoplastic closure system, to a container neck, wherein the system comprises one or more reshaping elements, wherein the system is operable to cause the reshaping element(s) to reshape part of the closure system or container neck to engage, for example, to movably engage, the tampering evidence(s) to the container neck over at least part of its circumference.

[0183] The system may, but does not have to, comprise a means or set of transport, such as one or more conveyors, for example, to transport the container through the system.

[0184] The reshaping element may, but does not have to, be one of two or more, for example, a plurality of, reshaping elements. Reshaping elements may be distributed over at least part of the closure system. Reshaping elements may be operable to reshape part of the closure system or container neck over at least part of its circumference, for example, to engage the tamper evidence feature(s) to the container neck over at least part of its circumference.

[0185] The remodeling element may, but does not have to, be or comprise a source of electromagnetic radiation. The system may be operable to cause the source of electromagnetic radiation to irradiate part of the container closure or neck system to engage, for example, to mobilely engage, the container neck tamper evidence feature(s). The source may, but does not have to, be one of two or more, for example, a plurality of, sources of electromagnetic radiation. The source(s) of electromagnetic radiation may be operable to cause the source to irradiate part of the container closure or neck system over at least part of its circumference, for example, to engage the container neck tamper evidence feature(s) over at least part of its circumference. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 88 / 290 47 / 152 minus part of its circumference.

[0186] In some examples, the reshaping elements comprise a cooling element. The cooling element may comprise a cooling fluid source, for example, a gas such as air. The cooling element may be operable or configured to cooperate with one or more other reshaping elements to provide a differential temperature to the closure system, or part of the closure system, or to the tamper-evident feature, or strip. The system may be operable to cause the cooling element to cool one side, for example, an inner or outer side, of the closure system or container neck.

[0187] Another broad aspect relates to a system for engaging one or more tamper-evident features of a closure system to a container neck, wherein the system comprises one or more sources of electromagnetic radiation, wherein the system is operable to cause the source(s) to radiate(s) part of the closure system or container neck in order to engage, for example, to mobilely engage, the tamper-evident feature(s) to the container neck over at least part of its circumference.

[0188] The system may comprise a means or assembly of conveyors, for example, to transport the container through the system. The means or assembly of conveyors may be operable to rotate the closure system and / or the container, for example, as the closure system portion or container neck is reshaped or irradiated with electromagnetic energy. The means or assembly of conveyors may comprise two or more conveyors. The means or assembly of conveyors, or at least one of the conveyors, may be configured or operable to rotate the closure system and / or the container, for example, as the closure system portion or container neck is reshaped or irradiated with electromagnetic energy. The means or assembly of conveyors, or by Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 89 / 290 48 / 152 minus one of the conveyors, it can be configured or operated to move the closing system and / or the container, for example, as part of the closing system or container neck is reshaped or irradiated with electromagnetic energy.

[0189] The first conveyor among the conveyors may be configured to engage one side of the closure system, container, or container neck. The first conveyor may be configured to engage the container neck adjacent to and / or immediately below a support ring or protrusion. Alternatively, the first conveyor may be configured to engage a side wall of a container body or the cylindrical skirt of the closure system. An additional conveyor or second conveyor may engage an opposite side of the closure system, container, or container neck. The additional conveyor or second conveyor may be stationary or may move in a direction opposite to the first conveyor, for example, so as to cause the closure system and / or the container to rotate.

[0190] The transport system or means may comprise a detection means or detector, for example, a barrier or a photoelectric detector. The detection means may be upstream and / or downstream of the reshaping means, for example, to detect the presence of containers being transported along the conveyor.

[0191] The electromagnetic radiation source(s) may comprise a plurality of electromagnetic energy sources, which may, but do not need to, be distributed over the closure system or container neck. The sources are operable to irradiate the part of the closure system or container neck to be remodeled or the tamper evidence feature(s) over at least part of the circumference of the closure system or container neck.

[0192] The electromagnetic energy source, or each energy source Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 90 / 290 49 / 152 electromagnetic or at least one electromagnetic energy source, may comprise a laser or a laser source or emitter. The system or source may be operable to provide a laser having a power between 10 W and 400 W, preferably between 20 W and 350 W. The system or source may be operable to reduce the laser power during irradiation, for example, in the ranges previously mentioned.

[0193] The system may comprise one or more optical elements, resources or devices, such as one or more lenses, prisms or mirrors.

[0194] Another broad aspect relates to a system for engaging one molded article to another article, wherein the system comprises one or more sources of electromagnetic radiation and one or more optical devices, wherein the system is operable to cause the source(s) to radiate(s) part of the molded article after modifying one or more characteristics of the electromagnetic energy with the use of one or more optical elements, resources or devices, to engage, thus, for example, to mobilely engage the molded article to another article.

[0195] Another broad aspect relates to a system for engaging a molded article to another article, wherein the system comprises one or more lasers and one or more optical devices, wherein the system is operable to cause the laser(s) to irradiate part of the molded article after modifying one or more characteristics of a laser beam with the use of one or more optical elements, features or devices, to engage, thus, for example, to mobilely engage the molded article to another article.

[0196] One or more optical elements, features or devices may be operable or configured to focus and / or scatter and / or reflect and / or refract electromagnetic or laser energy to irradiate one or more, for example, a plurality of, closure systems or bottlenecks of a container or tamper evidence feature(s). Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, p. 91 / 290 50 / 152

[0197] The system may comprise using one or more lenses, which may be configured to restrict or amplify electromagnetic energy or laser. One or more lenses may comprise a convex or focusing lens, which may be configured to restrict or focus electromagnetic energy or laser, for example, toward the tamper evidence feature(s). One or more lenses may comprise a concave or diverging lens, which may be configured to amplify or spread electromagnetic energy or laser. One or more lenses may comprise a convex or focusing lens and a concave or diverging lens, which may together be configured to provide one or more desired characteristics of the electromagnetic energy or laser.

[0198] The system may comprise using one or more prisms, which may be configured to redirect and / or refract electromagnetic energy or laser. The prism, or each prism, may comprise a polygonal prism, for example, with three or more sides or faces. The prism, or each prism, may comprise a polygonal prism with at least ten sides or faces. In some examples, the polygonal prism includes 18 or more sides. The prism, or at least one prism, may comprise a non-polygonal shape or any shape configured to provide the required optical effect. The system may comprise one or more prisms and one or more lenses, which may, together, be configured to provide one or more desired characteristics of the electromagnetic energy or laser before the electromagnetic energy is directed at or through the tampering evidence feature(s).

[0199] The system may comprise using one or more reflectors or mirrors, hereinafter in this document: mirror(s), which may be configured to reflect electromagnetic energy or laser to irradiate one or more, for example, a plurality of, closure systems or bottlenecks of container or tamper evidence resource(s). The system may comprise one or more mirrors and one or more lenses and / or one or more prisms, for example, to provide one or more Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 92 / 290 51 / 152 desired characteristics of electromagnetic energy or laser before electromagnetic energy is directed at or through the tamper evidence feature(s).

[0200] The system may comprise a laser or a laser array, which may be operable to irradiate part of the closure system, or each of a plurality of closure systems, with a substantially flat laser beam. The laser or laser array may be operable to irradiate part of the closure system, or each of a plurality of closure systems, with a substantially flat laser beam as it is transported, for example, along the direction of transport and / or through the transport medium, or a transport medium, to cause the closure system to engage with the container neck. The transport medium may be operable to rotate the closure system and container neck, or each closure system and container neck, while the part of the closure system is irradiated by the substantially flat laser beam.

[0201] The substantially flat laser beam can be oriented along the transport direction.

[0202] The means of transport may comprise a rail, for example, one or more rails, to support a radial support flange of the container neck. The rail, or each rail, may comprise or provide a support surface, which may be elongated and / or may extend along the direction of transport. The support surface may be horizontal. The one or more rails may comprise a pair of rails, which may be separated, for example, so that container necks and closure systems may be transported between them and / or along them. The rail, or each rail, may comprise a plate, which may provide the support surface.

[0203] The means of transport may comprise a pair of carriers, Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 93 / 290 52 / 152 which may be facing each other. The pair of conveyors may comprise a pair of opposing conveyors. The pair of conveyors may be intended to engage opposite sides of a container body that depends on the container neck. The pair of conveyors may be intended to transport the container along the transport direction and / or rotate the container and closure system, for example, as it is transported along the transport direction. A first conveyor among the conveyors may be additionally spaced from the rail(s) than a second conveyor among the conveyors, for example, to engage opposite sides of the container body at a different axial location.

[0204] The mirror, or at least one mirror, may be polygonal. The mirror, or at least one mirror, may comprise a non-polygonal shape or any shape configured to provide the required optical effect. The mirror may be configured to partition electromagnetic energy or laser into two or more beams, each intended to irradiate a respective molded article, locking system, or tamper-evident feature. The mirror may be rotatable, for example, relative to the source. The rotational speed of the mirror may be configured so as to cause two or more beams to follow a movement of the molded article, locking system, or tamper-evident feature. The mirror may be configured to provide a substantially linear or planar beam of electromagnetic energy, for example, a planar laser beam.The mirror can be rotating at a speed that generates a substantially continuous or substantially contiguous linear or planar beam of electromagnetic energy, for example, a planar laser beam. The mirror can be rotating at a speed that provides a substantially linear or planar beam of electromagnetic energy, for example, a planar laser beam.

[0205] The lens, or at least one lens, may comprise a lens of Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 94 / 290 53 / 152 scanning. The scanning lens may comprise a flat-field scanning lens or an f-Theta scanning lens. The lens, or at least one lens, for example, the scanning lens, may be configured to alter one or more characteristics of the beam, for example, to provide a substantially flat focal spot. The scanning lens may be intended to endow the substantially flat laser beam with a substantially flat focal spot along the transport direction. The lens, or at least one lens, for example, the scanning lens, may be configured to provide more continuous resolution and / or intensity across a plane along which the irradiated closure systems are situated.

[0206] The system can be configured to direct, in use, the electromagnetic or laser energy beam through the lens or scanning lens before irradiating the closure system. The system can be configured to direct, in use, the substantially linear or planar electromagnetic energy beam or planar laser beam through the lens or scanning lens before irradiating the closure system.

[0207] The system can be configured to direct, in use, the laser into a closing system that passes between the laser and the or at least a mirror.

[0208] The mirror, or at least one mirror, may be concave. The concave mirror may be mounted adjacent to the molded article or closure system or tamper-evident feature. The concave mirror may be mounted on an opposite side of the molded article or closure system or tamper-evident feature relative to the source. The concave mirror may be configured to reflect electromagnetic energy, for example, a laser beam, or a portion thereof, back toward the direction of the molded article or closure system or tamper-evident feature. The concave mirror may be configured to move with the molded article or closure system or tamper-evident feature, for example, through the system. The concave mirror may be mounted on Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 95 / 290 54 / 152 means of transport or carrier.

[0209] The mirror, or at least one mirror, may be configured to move, in use, with a locking system on the conveyor to thereby reflect a portion of a laser beam emitted from the laser towards the locking system. The mirror, or at least one mirror, may be stationary or configured to remain stationary, in use, as a locking system on the conveyor moves along it.

[0210] The mirror, or at least one mirror, may comprise one or more peaks and / or depressions, for example, a series of alternating peaks and depressions. At least one peak, or each peak, may comprise a pair of opposing flanks. The flank, or at least one flank or each flank, may be substantially smooth or flat. Alternatively, the flank, or at least one flank or each flank, may be curved, concave, convex, sinusoidal, or have any other suitable shape. The peaks and depressions, or at least some of the peaks and depressions in the series, may be substantially identical. Additionally or alternatively, the peaks and depressions, or at least some of the peaks and depressions in the series, may vary, for example, they may vary in amplitude or any other characteristic.

[0211] At least one of the one or more optical devices may comprise a free-form reflective or refractive surface. At least one of the lens, prism or mirror may comprise a free-form lens, prism or mirror. At least one of the free-form surface, lens or prism may be adjustable, for example, dynamically, to change its optical characteristics. The free-form surface, lens or prism may be intended to scatter the laser emitted by the source.

[0212] In some examples, the optical device is configured to shape or alter or modify the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy or the laser beam. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, p. 96 / 290 55 / 152

[0213] Another broad aspect refers to a system, for example, a conditioning system, such as an article, a closure system or a container or a pre-formed conditioning system. The system may comprise a source of electromagnetic radiation, such as a laser. The system may comprise an optical device. The optical device may be configured to shape or alter or modify an intensity distribution of electromagnetic or laser energy.

[0214] Another broad aspect refers to a system, for example, a conditioning system, comprising a source of electromagnetic radiation and an optical device configured to shape or alter or modify a distribution of electromagnetic energy intensity emitted, in use, by the source.

[0215] The system may comprise means of transport, or a carrier, and optionally, any one or more of the other resources described above in relation to the system.

[0216] The optical device can be configured to shape or alter or modify the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy along a transport direction of the transport media.

[0217] The optical device may comprise a mirror or a freeform lens. The freeform surface, lens or prism may be intended to scatter the laser emitted by the source.

[0218] The electromagnetic energy source may comprise a laser.

[0219] Another broad aspect relates to a method, for example, a method for conditioning an article, such as a closure system or a container or a preform. The method may comprise emitting electromagnetic radiation, such as a laser beam. The method may comprise shaping or altering or modifying an intensity distribution of the emitted electromagnetic energy or laser beam. The method may comprise irradiating the article with electromagnetic energy or a laser beam that has a shaped or altered or modified intensity distribution. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 97 / 290 56 / 152

[0220] Another broad aspect refers to a method, for example, a method for conditioning an article, which comprises shaping or altering or modifying an intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy emitted by a source and irradiating the article with electromagnetic energy that has a shaped or altered or modified intensity distribution.

[0221] The method may involve modeling or altering or modifying the distribution of electromagnetic energy intensity along a transport direction along which the article is transported.

[0222] The method may involve modeling or altering or modifying the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy using a mirror or a freeform lens.

[0223] The electromagnetic energy source may comprise a laser.

[0224] The optical device can be configured to shape or alter or modify the horizontal or vertical intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy or laser beam. The horizontal intensity distribution can be along the transport medium or carrier, or at least one transport medium or carrier. The horizontal intensity distribution can be along or in a transport direction or a movement direction of one or more containers or container necks, which may include the closure system installed therein. The optical device can be configured to shape or alter or modify the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy or laser beam along or in a transport direction or a movement direction of one or more containers or container necks.

[0225] The optical device can be configured to shape or alter or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam to focus it on a predetermined region of the closure system or tamper evidence strip, for example, a lower or free end, or end portion of the Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 98 / 290 57 / 152 same. In examples where the laser beam is used to create a gripping feature, the optical device can be configured to shape or alter or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam to focus it on a predetermined region of the cylindrical skirt of the closure system.

[0226] Alternatively, the electromagnetic energy source, or each electromagnetic energy source or at least one electromagnetic energy source, may comprise a microwave emitter. Alternatively, the electromagnetic energy source, or each electromagnetic energy source or at least one electromagnetic energy source, may comprise an infrared emitter. The method may comprise directing an infrared or microwave emitter at the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped or at one or more tamper-evident features. Irradiating the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped or at one or more tamper-evident features with electromagnetic energy may comprise directing an infrared or microwave emitter at the same.

[0227] The method may comprise removing liquid, such as water, or beverage media, from a surface to be heated or irradiated. The method may comprise removing liquid, such as water, or beverage media, using an air source, such as fluid flow induction or airflow induction means. The fluid flow induction or airflow induction means may comprise a fluid or air blasting means or device. The fluid flow induction or airflow induction means may comprise an air blade.

[0228] The system may comprise means or a device for removing liquid, such as water, or drinking media, from a surface to be heated or irradiated. The means or device for removing liquid, such as water, or drinking media, may comprise a fluid source or air source, such as a fluid flow induction means or air flow. The means or device for removing liquid, such as water, or drinking media Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 99 / 290 58 / 152 beverage, may comprise a means or device for jetting fluid or air. The means or device for removing liquid, such as water, or beverage media, may comprise an air blade.

[0229] Alternatively, the reshaping element, or each reshaping element or at least one reshaping element, may comprise a means or element or member or mechanism of mechanical deformation. The reshaping element, or each reshaping element or at least one reshaping element, may be configured to deform, for example, mechanically, one or more localized regions of the closure system or the container neck or the tamper-evident strip, for example, to engage the tamper-evident strip to the container neck.

[0230] The reshaping element, or each reshaping element or at least one reshaping element, may comprise a means or element or member or mechanism for drilling or perforating. The reshaping element, or each reshaping element or at least one reshaping element, may be configured to drill or perforate one or more localized regions of the closure system or container neck or tamper-evident strip, for example, to thereby deform part of the closure system or container neck or tamper-evident strip and / or to engage the tamper-evident strip to the container neck.

[0231] In other examples, the reshaping element, or each reshaping element or at least one reshaping element, may comprise an ultrasonic energy source or ultrasonic energy. The method may comprise directing ultrasonic energy at the closure system portion or container neck to reshape it to cause one or more tamper-evident features to engage with the container neck.

[0232] Additionally or alternatively, the remodeling element, or each Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 100 / 290 59 / 152 reshaping element or at least one reshaping element, or the heating element may comprise a laminator, a strip or a wire, which may, but does not have to, be heated. The system may be configured to heat the laminator, strip or wire. The laminator, strip or wire may be configured to apply heat to the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped or to the tamper-evident feature(s). In some examples, the laminator, strip or wire may be heated and positionable adjacent to the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped or to the tamper-evident feature(s).In other examples, the laminator, strip, or wire may be heated, or not heated, and propelled against the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped or the tamper-evident feature(s), for example, to engage the tamper-evident feature(s) with the container neck.

[0233] Alternatively or additionally, the reshaping element, or each reshaping element, or at least one reshaping element, may comprise a fluid source, such as air or water, for example, an air blade, which may, but need not, be heated. The method may comprise directing a fluid source into the closure system or container neck, for example, to reshape it to cause one or more tamper-evident features to engage the container neck. The fluid source may be included in or as part of a means of transport, conveyor, or transport system. Alternatively or additionally, the fluid source may be included as a separate or independent station.

[0234] The system can be configured to heat airflow, in use, through the air blade. The fluid source can be configured to apply heat to the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped or to the tamper-evident feature(s). In some examples, the fluid source may be Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 101 / 290 60 / 152 heated and positionable adjacent to the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped or the tamper-evident feature(s). In other examples, the fluid source may be heated, or unheated, and configured to direct fluid toward the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped or the tamper-evident feature(s), for example, at a speed configured to reshape the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped or the tamper-evident feature(s) to engage the tamper-evident feature(s) to the container neck.

[0235] The method may comprise directing a blade of air, which may be heated, onto the closure system or neck of a container, for example, to reshape it so that one or more tamper-evident features engage with the neck of the container.

[0236] The system may comprise a means or assembly for drilling, slitting or cutting, for example, for drilling, slitting or cutting the neck of a container, the closure system, the cylindrical skirt, the tamper-evident feature or a membrane connecting the tamper-evident feature to the closure system or the cylindrical skirt. The means or assembly for drilling, slitting or cutting may be upstream, downstream, adjacent to or near at least one source of electromagnetic energy. The means or assembly for drilling, slitting or cutting may comprise means or mechanical deformation features, such as tips, for mechanically deforming the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped or the tamper-evident feature(s).The drilling, slotting, or cutting means or assembly may comprise heating means, such as a heating element, for applying heat to the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped or to the tamper-evident feature(s). Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 102 / 290 61 / 152

[0237] The system may comprise or form part of a packaging system, which may comprise one or more of the following: a visual inspection station, a filling station, a capping station, a labeling station, a coding station, a laser marking station and / or a cartoning station. The system may be located before or after one of the aforementioned stations or between two of the aforementioned stations. The system may be integrated into or form part of one of the aforementioned stations.

[0238] The method may comprise reshaping part of the closure system or container neck at the same time the container or closure system is capped, or after the same. In cases where part of the closure system or container neck is reshaped at the same time the container or closure system is capped, the timing or sequencing of the reshaping is preferably configured or selected so that the reshaping occurs after the closure system reaches a capped position in the container neck.

[0239] The method may comprise reshaping part of the closure system or neck of a container at the same time that the container or closure system is labeled. The method may comprise reshaping part of the closure system or neck of a container at the same time that the container or closure system is coded. The method may comprise reshaping part of the closure system or neck of a container at the same time that the container or closure system is laser marked. The method may comprise reshaping part of the closure system or neck of a container at the same time that the container or closure system is cartoned.

[0240] The system may comprise or form part of a visual inspection station. The visual inspection station may include one or more vision systems. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 103 / 290 62 / 152 or cameras and / or may be operable or configurable to identify one or more defects in the closure system, container, or packaging, such as a defect in deformation, reshaping, shrinkage, or welding of the tamper-evident feature. The system may comprise or form part of a container capping station or system. The container capping station or system may comprise a heating ring, which may be incorporated into a capping mandrel or may be coaxial with or separate from it. Additionally or alternatively, the system may comprise or form part of a container labeling station or system. Additionally or alternatively, the system may comprise or form part of a coding station or system. Additionally or alternatively, the system may comprise a stand-alone station for incorporation into a packaging system.

[0241] Another broad aspect refers to a means or set of drilling, slot cutting or cutting for drilling, slot cutting or cutting the closure system, the cylindrical skirt, the tamper evidence feature or a membrane that joins the tamper evidence feature to the closure system or the cylindrical skirt.

[0242] The drilling, slotting or cutting means or assembly may comprise one or more, for example, a plurality of points, or a blade or a toothed surface. The drilling, slotting or cutting means or assembly may comprise a bar or a plate or a slotting cutting member, which may include the point(s) or blade or toothed surface. The drilling, slotting or cutting means or assembly may comprise a transport means or assembly, for example, a conveyor. The transport means or assembly may comprise one or more, for example, a plurality of carriages that may be movably mounted on, to or along the same. The carriage, or each carriage, may be operable or configured to contain or exert influence on or move the closing system, or a respective closing system, for example, Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 104 / 290 63 / 152 while the same is located in a container. At least one car, or each car, may include a laminating means, such as a pair of laminators. The laminating means may be operable or configured to drive a closing system against the tips or blade or toothed surface.

[0243] Alternatively, the means or assembly for drilling, slot cutting, or cutting may comprise a laser or laser cutter. In some examples, the electromagnetic power source(s) include(s) at least one electromagnetic power source operable or configured to operate as a laser cutter and / or to drill or cut slots in the locking system, the cylindrical skirt, the tamper-evident feature, or a membrane that joins the tamper-evident feature to the locking system or the cylindrical skirt.

[0244] Another broad aspect refers to packaging, which may include the closure system described above installed on the neck of a container.

[0245] The tamper-evident device(s) may be attached to the container neck. The tamper-evident device(s) may be attached to the container neck in such a way that their removal from the container neck is inhibited, for example, when the closure system is removed from it. The tamper-evident device(s) may be attached to the container neck in such a way that they have one or more degrees of movement. In some cases, the tamper-evident device(s) may be attached to the container neck to allow movement or rotation between them, for example, to enable the closure system to be unscrewed from the container neck or at least rotated relative to it.

[0246] In some packaging examples, one free end of the tamper-evident strip is bent inward, for example, to create a rim for engaging a fitting feature or flange on the container neck. The feature(s), Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 105 / 290 64 / 152 or tamper-evident strip(s) may be deformed inwards over at least part of its circumference. The rim may extend over at least part of its circumference. The rim may allow the closure system to rotate on the container neck. The rim may inhibit axial movement of the tamper-evident feature(s), for example, so that the tamper-evident feature(s) remain in the container neck when the closure system is removed from it. The rim may allow the closure system to rotate relative to the container neck while axially engaging the engagement feature or flange, for example, thus inhibiting its removal from the container neck.

[0247] In some packaging examples, at least part of the tamper-evident feature(s), for example, the tamper-evident strip or panel or girdle of the cylindrical skirt, is welded to the neck of the container. The tamper-evident feature(s), or strip, may be welded to the neck of the container over at least part of its circumference.

[0248] At least part of at least one of the tamper-evident features, for example, the tamper-evident strip, tab, margin, or panel, may be crystallized or may have a color or opacity indicative of the tamper-evident strip having been reshaped to engage the container neck.

[0249] Another broad aspect relates to packaging comprising a closure system, for example, the closure system previously mentioned, fitted to the neck of a container, wherein at least part of the closure system or one or more tamper-evident features is crystallized or has a colour or opacity indicative of the tamper-evident strip that has been reshaped to engage the container neck.

[0250] In some examples, the method, or redesign of the closure system or bottleneck part of the container, may, but does not have to, include Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 106 / 290 65 / 152 reshape, deform or shrink part of the neck of a container, for example, to attach the tamper-evident feature(s) to it.

[0251] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and reshaping, deforming or shrinking part of the container neck to cause one or more tamper-evident features to engage with the container neck.

[0252] The container neck may have a flange with an integral annular wall. The method may comprise reshaping, deforming, or shrinking part of the integral annular wall to engage one or more tamper-evident features of the closure system, for example, a tamper-evident strip. The tamper-evident strip may comprise an engagement feature on its outer surface. The engagement feature may comprise a flange.

[0253] Another broad aspect refers to a container or preform comprising a neck having a radial flange with an integral wall on its periphery, the wall being configured to be reshaped, in use, to engage one or more tamper-evident features of a closure system installed thereon, for example, a tamper-evident strip.

[0254] Another broad aspect refers to a package or a kit of parts comprising the container or preform and a closure system comprising a tamper-evident strip with an engagement feature for cooperation with the intact wall.

[0255] Another broad aspect refers to packaging comprising the container or preform and a closure system comprising a tamper-evident strip with a snap-on feature attached to the integral wall.

[0256] In other examples, a separate connecting element can be used to connect the violation evidence resource(s) to the container bottleneck. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 107 / 290 66 / 152

[0257] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and reshaping a connecting element to cause one or more tamper-evident features of the closure system to engage with the container neck.

[0258] Another broad aspect refers to packaging or a kit of parts comprising a container, a closure system and a connecting element, wherein the connecting element is configured to be reshaped, in use, to cause one or more tamper-evident features of the closure system to engage with the container neck.

[0259] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and reshaping a connecting element to cause one or more tamper-evident features of the closure system or connecting element to engage with the container neck.

[0260] The connecting element may comprise a connecting ring. The method may comprise deforming or shrinking part of the connecting element to engage one or more tamper-evident features of the closure system, for example, a tamper-evident strip. The tamper-evident strip may comprise an engagement feature on its outer surface. The engagement feature may comprise a flange. The method may comprise deforming or shrinking part of the connecting element to engage one or more tamper-evident features of the container neck, for example, an engagement flange.

[0261] The method may comprise installing, deforming, or shrinking part of the connecting element to cause one or more tamper-evident features of the closure system, for example, one or more tamper-evident hooks, to engage with the container neck. Tamper-evident features Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 108 / 290 67 / 152 may comprise a tamper-evident strip with one or more, for example, a plurality of, dependent hooks. The dependent hooks may be extended outwards. The connecting ring may push the dependent hooks towards the neck of the container, for example, by installation and / or deformation or shrinkage of the connecting element or ring in or in relation to the closure system.

[0262] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and installing a connecting element or ring on one or more tamper-evident hooks frangibly connected to the closure system to force them to engage with the container neck.

[0263] Another broad aspect relates to a closure system, for example, for sealing a neck opening of a container, wherein the closure system comprises an upper wall, a cylindrical skirt that depends on the upper wall and one or more tamper-evident hooks frangibly connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident hooks are configured to be driven, in use, to engage the container neck by a connecting element or ring.

[0264] One or more tamper-evident hooks may depend on a tamper-evident strip. The tamper-evident strip may be frangibly connected to the cylindrical skirt. One or more tamper-evident hooks are frangibly connected to the cylindrical skirt by means of or through the tamper-evident strip. The tamper-evident hooks may be flared outwards.

[0265] Another broad aspect refers to a combination of the closing system of the immediately preceding aspect in combination with a connecting element or ring. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 109 / 290 68 / 152

[0266] The connecting element or ring can be configured to push, in use, the tamper-evident hooks towards the container neck, for example, by installing and / or deforming or shrinking the connecting element or ring in or in relation to the closure system.

[0267] In some embodiments, the connecting element may comprise a glove. The glove may include one or more violation evidence features.

[0268] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and reshaping a sleeve to cause one or more tamper-evident features of the closure system or the sleeve to engage with the container neck.

[0269] Another broad aspect refers to a package or kit of parts comprising a container, a closure system and a connecting element or sleeve, wherein the connecting element or sleeve is configured to be reshaped, in use, to engage both the closure system and the container neck and includes one or more tamper-evident features.

[0270] The connecting element or sleeve may comprise a hose. The connecting element or sleeve may comprise a first portion, which may be configured to remain in the closure system when it is removed from the vessel neck. The connecting element or sleeve may comprise a second portion, which may be configured to remain in the vessel neck when the closure system is removed from the vessel neck. The first portion may be connected to the second portion by a frangible connection. The frangible connection may comprise one or more weakened lines. The weakened line may extend over the circumference of the connecting element or sleeve.

[0271] The connecting element or sleeve can be separated from the container and Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 110 / 290 69 / 152 of the closing system.

[0272] Another broad aspect refers to packaging or a kit of parts comprising a container and a closure system with a connecting sleeve, wherein the connecting sleeve is configured to be reshaped, in use, to engage the container neck and includes one or more tamper-evident features.

[0273] The connecting sleeve may comprise or be provided by the tamper evidence strip.

[0274] The tamper-evident strip may comprise or provide the connecting sleeve or a connecting sleeve.

[0275] The connecting element or ring may depend on the tamper-evident strip. The connecting element or ring may be configured to be driven, in use, into a profiled outer surface of the tamper-evident strip, for example, when the closure system is fitted to a container neck, to thereby cause the tamper-evident strip to be contracted to engage a flange of the container neck.

[0276] Another broad aspect relates to a closure system, for example, for sealing a neck opening of a container, wherein the closure system comprises an upper wall, a cylindrical skirt dependent on the upper wall, a tamper-evident strip connected frangibly to the cylindrical skirt and a ring dependent on the tamper-evident strip, wherein the connecting ring is configured to be driven, in use, into a profiled outer surface of the tamper-evident strip when the closure system is installed on a container neck, thereby causing the tamper-evident strip to be contracted to engage with a flange of the container neck.

[0277] The tamper-evident strip may comprise an annular projection, which may project inward, for example, before the locking system. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 111 / 290 70 / 152 to be installed on the container neck. The tamper-evident strip or annular projection may comprise a rim that projects inward, for example, before the closure system is installed on the container neck. The projecting rim may be configured to be retracted to engage with a flange of the container neck when the closure system is installed thereon.

[0278] The connecting element or ring may comprise a cam or cam surface. The profiled outer surface of the tamper-evident strip may be shaped to cooperate with the cam or cam surface of the connecting ring. The connecting element or ring may be configured to contact, in use, a flange, for example, an additional flange, such as a support ring, of the container neck as the closure system is installed on the container neck. The flange, or additional flange, or support ring may force the cam or cam surface of the connecting element or ring against the profiled outer surface of the tamper-evident strip. The cam or cam surface of the connecting element or ring may cause an inward deformation of the lower portion of the tamper-evident strip, for example, thereby contracting the annular projection or projecting rim.

[0279] Once contracted to engage a container neck flange, the tamper-evident strip may be retained therein, for example, so that subsequent removal of the container neck closure system breaks the bridges and / or separates the tamper-evident strip from the rest of the closure system.

[0280] The container neck or tamper-evident engagement feature may comprise one or more anti-rotation or locking features, for example, to inhibit rotation or movement of the tamper-evident feature relative to the container neck when they are engaged.

[0281] Another broad aspect refers to a container or preform comprising a neck that has a tamper-evident engagement feature that Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 112 / 290 71 / 152 includes one or more anti-rotation or locking features.

[0282] The tamper-evident attachment feature may comprise a projection, a ring, a flange, or a microsphere.

[0283] The method may comprise reshaping part of the closure system, for example, the tamper-evident strip, in conjugate contact with the anti-rotation or locking feature, or an anti-rotation or locking feature, of the closure system neck. The conjugate contact between the anti-rotation or locking feature and the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped may be configured to inhibit rotation or movement of the tamper-evident feature relative to the container neck. At least one anti-rotation or locking feature, or the anti-rotation or locking feature or each anti-rotation or locking feature, may comprise a notch, a rib, or a non-round or oval shape of the container neck part. The tamper-evident strip may be configured to deform or shrink in conjugate contact with the anti-rotation or locking feature.The anti-rotation or locking mechanism may include a ratchet.

[0284] Another broad aspect refers to a container or preform comprising a neck that has a non-round tamper-evident engagement feature.

[0285] The tamper-evident attachment feature may be oval and / or may comprise one or more protrusions.

[0286] Another broad aspect refers to packaging comprising the container and a closure system comprising one or more tamper-evident features, for example, a tamper-evident strip, attached to the non-round tamper-evident feature of the container.

[0287] The preform or container may comprise a neck, which may include one or more of the container neck features described above. The preform Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 113 / 290 72 / 152 The shape or container may comprise a gripping feature, for example, at the neck. The gripping feature may comprise a radial feature, for example, a radial projection. The gripping feature may comprise an annular feature, such as an annular projection. The gripping feature may comprise a press-fit feature. Alternatively, the gripping feature may comprise a helical feature, such as a screw thread.

[0288] The preform, or container, or neck may comprise a flange, for example, a handling flange or a support protrusion. The tamper-evident engagement feature may be between the flange and the gripping feature. The tamper-evident engagement feature may comprise a recess or groove.

[0289] Another broad aspect refers to a container or preform comprising a neck with a gripping feature for attaching a closure system to the neck, a flange below the gripping feature and a tamper-evident engagement recess or groove between the flange and the gripping feature.

[0290] The recess or groove may be annular and / or extend over at least part of the periphery of the preform, or the container, or the neck. The container or preform may be undefined and / or devoid of any projections, for example, radial projections, between the tamper-evident engagement recess or groove and the gripping feature. The neck may comprise a root diameter, which comprises or corresponds to the smallest outside diameter on, in, or associated with the gripping feature. The tamper-evident engagement recess or groove may comprise a diameter that is smaller than the root diameter of the neck.

[0291] The method may comprise reshaping part of the closure system or tamper evidence feature(s) so that the same or the same are inserted into the tamper evidence engagement recess or groove.

[0292] Another broad aspect refers to packaging that includes Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 114 / 290 73 / 152 container with a closure system installed thereon and one or more tamper-evident features of the closure system received in the recess or groove of the tamper-evident engagement.

[0293] The method may comprise reshaping an additional part of the closure system, for example, to provide a gripping feature on an internal surface of the closure system to cooperate with a gripping feature of the container neck. The gripping feature may comprise a radial feature, for example, a radial projection. The gripping feature may comprise an annular feature, such as an annular projection. The gripping feature may comprise a press-fit feature. Alternatively, the gripping feature may comprise a helical feature, such as a screw thread.

[0294] Another broad aspect relates to a kit of parts for assembly into a package, the kit comprising a container and a closure system, such as the closure system described above. The closure system may be designed to seal a neck opening of the container. The closure system may comprise a top wall. The closure system may comprise a cylindrical skirt, which may depend on the top wall. The closure system may comprise a tamper-evident strip, which may be connected to the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident strip may be configured to prevent the container from engaging when the closure system is installed on the neck opening of the container. The tamper-evident strip may be configured to be reshaped, in use, with the closure system installed on the container, for example, to thus engage the tamper-evident strip to the container.

[0295] Another broad aspect refers to a kit of parts for assembly in a package, the kit comprising a container and a molded closure system for sealing a neck opening of Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 115 / 290 74 / 152 container, wherein the closure system comprises an upper wall, a cylindrical skirt that depends on the upper wall and a tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident strip is configured to prevent the container from engaging when the closure system is installed on the container's neck opening and to be reshaped, in use, with the closure system installed on the container, to thus engage the tamper-evident strip to the container.

[0296] The container may comprise a neck finish, which may comprise a mating surface. The tamper-evident strip may comprise a mating surface. The mating surface of the tamper-evident strip may be configured to release the mating surface of the neck finish, for example, when the closure system is installed on the neck opening of the container. The tamper-evident strip may be configured to be reshaped, for example, to cause the same mating surface to engage with the mating surface of the container neck.

[0297] Another broad aspect relates to a kit of parts for assembly in a package, wherein the kit comprises a container and a molded closure system for engaging a container neck finish to seal the container, wherein the closure system comprises a top wall, a cylindrical skirt that depends on the top wall and a tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident strip comprises a mating surface configured to release a mating surface of the container neck finish when the closure system is installed thereon and the tamper-evident strip is configured to be reshaped to cause the mating surface thereof to engage with the mating surface of the container neck.

[0298] Another broad aspect refers to a packaging system that Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 116 / 290 75 / 152 comprises the system described above.

[0299] Another broad aspect refers to a mold stack, for example, for molding the closure system described above. The mold stack may comprise a molding configuration, for example, which includes, describes, or defines a cavity for molding the closure system described above. The mold stack may comprise a demolding configuration, for example, in which the components thereof are separated to eject a molded closure system.

[0300] The mold stack may comprise an ejector sleeve. The ejector sleeve may be movable in use to contact the annular tamper-evident strip of a molded closure system. The ejector sleeve may have a first surface and / or a second surface. The first and second surfaces may be intended to simultaneously contact a side and lower side surface of the annular tamper-evident strip, respectively, for example, during ejection of the molded article.

[0301] The extractor sleeve may comprise a pocket. The pocket may define the first surface and / or the second surface. The first surface may comprise a first axial wall. The first axial wall may be configured to engage the side of the tamper-evident strip. The first axial wall may provide a stop. The stop may delimit a radial displacement extent of the tamper-evident strip from the closure system during its extraction. The second surface may comprise a second transverse wall. The second transverse wall may be configured to engage a deeper portion of a tamper-evident strip.

[0302] The mold stack may comprise a core or part of a core or a core insert or a core assembly, hereinafter in this document: core. The pocket may be associated with a depth. The pocket may have a depth configured so that the violation strip is substantially Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, p. 117 / 290 76 / 152 isolated from a force, for example, an axially directed force, applied to the closure system to remove it from the core. The pocket depth may be substantially equal to, or similar to or equivalent to, the axial height or length of the tamper-evident strip, and bridges or membrane, if present. The pocket may have a depth configured so that the extractor sleeve, for example, an upper surface thereof adjacent to the pocket, contacts part of the edge of the cylindrical skirt during ejection, for example, to transfer an ejection force to it.

[0303] The depth can represent a distance between an edge and the first axial wall. The depth can be selected to allow the portion of the tamper-evident strip to deflect in a first direction, for example, to release a feature from the mold stack. The depth can be selected to avoid significant damage attributable to “overdeflection” of the portion of the tamper-evident strip in the first direction. The pocket depth can be selected to accommodate a permissible displacement trajectory for the portion of the tamper-evident strip.

[0304] The mold stack may comprise a cavity or part of a cavity or a cavity insert or a cavity assembly, hereinafter in this document: cavity. The core may comprise a molding surface that describes an interior portion of the resulting closure system. The cavity may comprise a molding surface that describes an exterior portion of the resulting closure system, for example, at least part of an exterior surface of the top wall and / or at least part of an exterior surface of the cylindrical skirt thereof. The core may comprise a molding surface that describes, with a cavity molding surface, at least part of the resulting closure system.

[0305] In some examples, the mold stack comprises a part Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 118 / 290 77 / 152 partitioned or a partitioned insert or slides, which may comprise a molding surface that describes at least part of an outer surface of the tamper-evident strip and / or the frangible connection, or bridges or membrane, of the resulting closure system. The partitioned part or the partitioned insert or the slides may comprise a molding surface that describes at least part of an outer surface of the cylindrical skirt of the resulting closure system.

[0306] In other examples, the cavity may comprise a molding surface that describes at least part of an exterior surface of the tamper-evident strip and / or the frangible connection, or bridges or membrane, of the resulting closure system. In such examples, the tamper-evident strip may be larger than the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident strip may have a diameter that is larger than that of the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident strip may be connected, for example, frangibly connected, to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane or frangible connection or one or more bridges extending radially and / or axially. The membrane or frangible connection or one or more bridges may extend at an angle to either the radial or axial direction. The tamper-evident strip may be connected, for example, frangibly connected, to the cylindrical skirt by a radial membrane or one or more radial bridges.The tamper-evident strip can be connected to the cylindrical skirt by a conical or frustoconical membrane.

[0307] Another broad aspect refers to a mold comprising a plurality of mold stacks, as described above.

[0308] Another broad aspect refers to a molding system comprising the aforementioned mold. The molding system may comprise a molding machine, which may, but does not have to, be an injection molding machine. The molding machine may comprise a clamp. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 119 / 290 78 / 152 on which the mold can be mounted. The clamp may include a pair of plates, which may be movable toward each other and away from each other. The mold may comprise two parts, each of which may include part of each mold stack. Each mold part may be mounted on one of the plates. The plates may be movable to move the mold stacks between their molding and demolding configurations.

[0309] The molding system may comprise a means or set of piercing, slitting, or cutting the closure systems described above. Additionally or alternatively, the molding system may comprise the system for installing or engaging tamper-evident features of the closure system to a container neck, as described above.

[0310] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a thermoplastic closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and plastically reshaping part of the closure system to cause the formation of a gripping feature thereon that conforms with a complementary gripping feature on the container neck.

[0311] The method may comprise plastically reshaping part of the closure system by applying heat. The method may comprise applying heat to a cylindrical skirt that depends on an upper wall of the closure system, for example, to reshape a selected portion of the cylindrical skirt to conform to a gripping feature of the container neck.

[0312] Heat may be applied by any of the means previously mentioned. Heat may be applied in such a way that the plastically reshaped part of the closure system, at least partially, crystallizes. The method may comprise applying heat to the cylindrical skirt so that at least part of the closure system or the cylindrical skirt, for example, the plastically reshaped part, crystallizes. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 120 / 290 79 / 152 remodeled, at least partially, crystallizes. Heat can be applied to the entire closure system, for example, so that the entire closure system, at least partially, crystallizes.

[0313] Another broad aspect relates to a thermoplastic closure system for sealing a neck opening of a container, wherein the closure system comprises an upper wall, a cylindrical skirt that depends on the upper wall and an annular tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein an inner surface of the cylindrical skirt is substantially cylindrical and devoid of a gripping feature to enable the closure system to be received into the container neck in a free manner.

[0314] The tamper-evident strip comprises a substantially cylindrical inner surface devoid of engagement features to enable a container neck flange to be received therein in a free manner.

[0315] Another broad aspect relates to packaging comprising a thermoplastic closure system in a container neck, wherein the closure system comprises a gripping feature formed by plastically reshaping part of the closure system by heat so as to conform to a complementary gripping feature in the container neck and at least the gripping feature being at least partially crystallized.

[0316] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and irradiating part of the closure system with a laser to engage the closure system to the container neck, wherein at least the irradiated part of the closure system comprises a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material.

[0317] Irradiating part of the closure system with a laser may involve directing a substantially planar laser beam at the part of the system. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 121 / 290 80 / 152 closure or neck of the container.

[0318] Another broad aspect relates to a method for installing a closure system on a container neck comprising placing the closure system on the container neck and irradiating part of the closure system with a substantially flat laser beam to engage the closure system to the container neck.

[0319] The method may comprise rotating the closure system while the part of the closure system is irradiated by the substantially flat laser beam.

[0320] The method may comprise modifying one or more characteristics of an emitted laser, for example, by a source, using one or more optical devices to provide, alter or redirect the substantially planar laser beam.

[0321] One or more optical devices may comprise a rotating polygonal mirror, for example, to spread the laser emitted by the source.

[0322] One or more optical devices may comprise a free-form mirror, for example, to scatter the laser emitted by the source.

[0323] The method may comprise transporting, for example, along a transport direction, a plurality of closure systems, each in a respective container neck. The method may comprise irradiating part of each closure system simultaneously, for example, with a substantially planar laser beam.

[0324] One or more optical devices may comprise one or more mirrors. The one or more mirrors may be on an opposite side of the closure systems relative to the source. At least part of the substantially planar laser beam may travel around or between the closure systems. At least part of the substantially planar laser beam may be reflected back into the closure systems, for example, by one or more mirrors. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 122 / 290 81 / 152

[0325] One or more mirrors on the opposite side of the enclosure systems with respect to the source may comprise a series of alternating peaks and dips.

[0326] At least some of the peaks and troughs in the series may be substantially identical.

[0327] At least some of the peaks and troughs in the series may vary in amplitude.

[0328] Each peak may comprise a pair of opposing flanks. At least one flank, or each flank, may be substantially smooth or flat.

[0329] One or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure systems with respect to the source may comprise a concave mirror, which may be associated with each closure system.

[0330] The concave mirror(s) may move with the closing systems, for example, along the direction of transport.

[0331] One or more optical devices may comprise a scanning lens. The scanning lens may be intended to provide the substantially flat laser beam with a substantially flat focal spot, which may lie along the direction of transport.

[0332] The method may comprise supporting a radial support flange of the container neck. The method may comprise engaging opposite sides of a container body that depends on the container neck, for example, to transport the container along the transport direction and / or to rotate the container and closure system as it is transported along the transport direction.

[0333] The method may comprise engaging opposite sides of a container body using a pair of carriers. Each carrier may engage the container body at a different axial location.

[0334] The substantially flat laser beam can be directed along Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 123 / 290 82 / 152 of part of the circumference of a tamper-evident closure system strip, for example, to attach the tamper-evident strip to a container neck flange.

[0335] The conjugate surface of the tamper-evident strip can be configured to release the flange when the closure system is placed on the container neck. A conjugate surface of the tamper-evident strip can be configured to engage the flange if the closure system is removed from the container neck, for example, after the tamper-evident strip has been irradiated by the substantially flat laser beam.

[0336] The tamper-evident strip may have a substantially cylindrical inner surface, which may be molded by a substantially cylindrical outer surface of a core, for example, to inhibit internal stresses in the molded tamper-evident strip.

[0337] The substantially cylindrical inner surface of the tamper-evident strip may be devoid of any hooking features.

[0338] The tamper-evident strip may have a substantially constant wall thickness. The wall thickness may be between 0.3 mm and 0.8 mm. The wall thickness may be between 0.35 mm and 0.8 mm, for example, between 0.4 mm and 0.75 mm.

[0339] Additionally or alternatively, the tamper-evident strip may have a radial wall thickness that is between 10% and 25% of its axial length, for example, between 12% and 23% of its axial length. In some examples, the tamper-evident strip has a radial wall thickness that is between 14% and 21% of its axial length, for example, between 15% and 20% of its axial length.

[0340] Part of the closure system can be irradiated in order to create a predetermined temperature differential between an external surface of the part Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 124 / 290 83 / 152 of the locking system and an inner surface thereof.

[0341] Irradiating part of the closure system may involve generating a visual indicator. Generating the visual indicator may involve crystallizing part of the closure system. Generating the visual indicator may involve changing the color or opacity of part of the closure system.

[0342] Part of the closure system may comprise an additive. The additive may be configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period.

[0343] The closure system may comprise a multimodal PET material. The multimodal PET material may comprise or be formed from a first PET, for example, which has a first molecular weight. The multimodal PET material may comprise or be formed from a second PET, for example, which has a second molecular weight that may be greater than the first molecular weight.

[0344] The closure system may comprise PET which has an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dl / g, for example, less than 0.7 dl / g.

[0345] The method may comprise molding the PET closure system which has an intrinsic viscosity between 0.4 dl / g and 0.8 dl / g. The method may comprise molding the PET closure system which has an intrinsic viscosity between 0.3 dl / g and 0.7 dl / g.

[0346] The method may comprise drilling, cutting slits or cutting a membrane that joins the tamper-evident feature to the closure system, for example, while the closure system is installed on the neck of a container, to thereby provide a frangible connection between them.

[0347] Another broad aspect refers to a system for engaging a closure system to a container neck, the system comprising means of transport for transporting one or more along a transport direction. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 125 / 290 84 / 152 containers, each with a closure system on one of their necks, and an operable laser assembly to irradiate part or all of the closure system with a substantially flat laser beam as it is transported along the transport direction to cause the closure system to engage with the container neck.

[0348] The means of transport may be operable to rotate the closing system and container neck, for example, while the closing system part is irradiated by the substantially flat laser beam.

[0349] The system may comprise one or more optical devices. The one or more optical devices may be intended to modify one or more characteristics of a laser emitted by a source, for example, to provide, alter or redirect the laser beam to a substantially flat plane.

[0350] One or more optical devices may comprise a rotating polygonal mirror, for example, to spread the laser emitted by the source.

[0351] One or more optical devices may comprise a free-form mirror, for example, to scatter the laser emitted by the source.

[0352] One or more optical devices may comprise one or more mirrors, which may be on an opposite side of the closure systems or means of transport relative to the source. The one or more mirrors may be intended to reflect at least part of the substantially planar laser beam that travels around or between the closure systems back to the closure systems.

[0353] One or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure systems relative to the source may comprise a series of alternating peaks and troughs. At least some of the peaks and troughs in the series may be substantially identical or may vary in amplitude.

[0354] At least one peak, or each peak, may comprise a pair of opposing flanks. The flank, or each flank, may be substantially smooth or flat. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 126 / 290 85 / 152

[0355] One or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure systems with respect to the source may comprise a concave mirror associated with each closure system.

[0356] Concave mirrors can move with the locking systems, for example, along the direction of transport.

[0357] One or more optical devices may comprise a scanning lens, for example, to provide the substantially flat laser beam with a substantially flat focal spot along the direction of transport.

[0358] The means of transport may comprise a rail, for example, to support a radial support flange of the container neck. The means of transport may comprise one or more, for example, a pair of conveyors. The pair of conveyors may engage opposite sides of a container body that depends on the container neck. The pair of conveyors may engage opposite sides of a container body to transport the container along the transport direction and / or to rotate the container and closure system as it is transported along the transport direction.

[0359] A first carrier among the carriers may be additionally spaced from the rail than a second carrier among the carriers, for example, to engage opposite sides of the container body at a different axial location.

[0360] The substantially flat laser beam can be oriented along the transport direction.

[0361] The laser assembly can be configured to irradiate the closure system part in order to create a predetermined temperature differential between an external surface of the same and an internal surface of the same.

[0362] The system may comprise means for drilling, slitting or cutting a membrane that joins a feature of Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 127 / 290 86 / 152 evidence of tampering with the closure system to the rest of the closure system, for example, while it is installed on the neck of a container, thus providing a frangible connection between them.

[0363] Another broad aspect relates to a closure system comprising a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material having an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dl / g and a coupling portion that is adapted to be reshaped by laser irradiation.

[0364] PET can have an intrinsic viscosity between 0.3 dl / g and 0.7 dl / g.

[0365] PET may comprise a multimodal PET material. The multimodal PET material may comprise or be formed from a first PET, which may have a first molecular weight. The multimodal PET material may comprise or be formed from a second PET, which may have a second molecular weight that may be greater than the first molecular weight.

[0366] The engagement portion may comprise a mated surface. The mated surface may be configured to release a flange from a container neck when the closure system is placed on it. The mated surface may be configured to engage the flange if the closure system is removed from the container neck after the engagement portion has been irradiated by a laser.

[0367] The locking system may comprise an upper wall. The locking system may comprise a cylindrical skirt. The cylindrical skirt may depend on the upper wall. The engagement portion may comprise an annular tamper-evident strip. The tamper-evident strip may be connected to the cylindrical skirt.

[0368] Another broad aspect refers to a closure system comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt that depends on the top wall and an annular tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt that is adapted Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 128 / 290 87 / 152 to be reshaped by laser irradiation, wherein the closure system is formed from a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material and the tamper-evident strip comprises a substantially cylindrical conjugated surface configured to release a flange from a container neck when the closure system is placed on it, but is configured to engage the flange if the closure system is removed from the container neck after the engagement portion has been laser irradiated.

[0369] The tamper-evident strip may be substantially free of residual circumferential stress.

[0370] Another broad aspect relates to a closure system comprising a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material comprising an upper wall and a cylindrical skirt dependent on the upper wall, and a tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident strip is substantially free of residual circumferential stress and is adapted to be reshaped by laser irradiation.

[0371] The tamper-evident strip may comprise a free-edge portion. The free-edge portion may be configured to deform, shrink or curl, for example radially, by means of laser irradiation, for example, to form a radial rim to engage a flange of a container neck.

[0372] The tamper-evident strip may comprise a substantially cylindrical inner surface, which may be devoid of engagement features.

[0373] The tamper-evident strip may have a substantially constant wall thickness. The wall thickness may be between 0.3 mm and 0.8 mm. The wall thickness may be less than 25% of its axial length. The wall thickness may be less than 20% of its axial length. The wall thickness may be less than 15% of its axial length.

[0374] At least part of the connection between the violation evidence strip and the Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 129 / 290 88 / 152 cylindrical skirt may be frangible.

[0375] The tamper-evident strip may be connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane. The membrane may have a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt.

[0376] The tamper-evident strip may comprise a first annular portion. The first annular portion may be connected to the cylindrical skirt of the closure system. The tamper-evident strip may comprise a second annular portion. The second annular portion may depend on the first annular portion. The second annular portion may have a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the first annular portion.

[0377] The closure system may comprise a tie rod, which may connect the tamper-evident strip to the cylindrical skirt.

[0378] The coupling portion may comprise an additive. The additive may be configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period.

[0379] The coupling portion may comprise a reheating agent, for example, to increase its heat absorption.

[0380] Another broad aspect refers to a mold stack comprising a molding configuration that describes a cavity for molding a closure system. The closure system may be a closure system as described above.

[0381] The mold stack may comprise an ejector sleeve. The ejector sleeve may be movable, in use, to contact the tamper-evident strip of a molded closure system. The ejector sleeve may have a first surface and a second surface to simultaneously contact a side and bottom side surface of the tamper-evident strip, respectively, during extraction from the molded closure system. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 130 / 290 89 / 152

[0382] The extractor sleeve may comprise a pocket. The pocket may define the first and second surfaces. The pocket may have a depth, which may be configured so that an upper surface of the extractor sleeve, adjacent to the pocket, contacts part of a margin of the cylindrical skirt during ejection to transfer an ejection force to it.

[0383] The mold stack may comprise an insert or cavity assembly. The insert or cavity assembly may have a molding surface that describes at least part of an outer surface of at least one cylindrical skirt, or each cylindrical skirt, and of the tamper-evident strip.

[0384] Another broad aspect refers to a mold comprising a plurality of mold stacks, as described above.

[0385] Another broad aspect refers to a molding system comprising the mold described above.

[0386] Another broad aspect refers to a packaging system comprising the system described above and one or more of the following: a visual inspection station, a capping station, a labeling station, a coding station, a laser marking station and / or a cartoning station.

[0387] Another broad aspect relates to a kit of parts for assembly in a package, the kit comprising a container and a molded closure system for sealing a neck opening of the container, the closure system comprising a locking portion configured to prevent the container from locking when the closure system is installed in the neck opening of the container and to be reshaped, in use, by means of laser irradiation, with the closure system installed in the container, to thus lock the locking portion to the container.

[0388] The closure system may comprise a closure system as described above. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 131 / 290 90 / 152

[0389] Another aspect refers to a computer program element that comprises and / or describes and / or defines a three-dimensional design for use with a simulation means or a three-dimensional additive or a subtractive manufacturing means or device, for example, a three-dimensional printer or CNC machine, wherein the three-dimensional design comprises a closure system, a mold stack, a mold or any one or more of the other mold components described above.

[0390] An additional aspect refers to a computer program element comprising means of computer-readable program code for causing a processor to execute a procedure to implement one or more steps of any of the methods previously mentioned.

[0391] Yet another aspect relates to the computer program element embedded in a computer-readable medium.

[0392] Furthermore, an additional aspect refers to a computer-readable medium that has a program stored on it, the program being arranged to cause a computer to execute a procedure to implement one or more steps of the previously mentioned method.

[0393] Furthermore, an additional aspect refers to a means of control or control system or controller comprising the computer program element or computer-readable medium previously mentioned.

[0394] For the sake of clarity, any of the features described in this invention apply equally to any aspect of the invention. Within the scope of this application, it is expressly provided that various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set forth in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and / or in the following description and drawings, and, in particular, the individual features thereof, may be considered independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and / or all features of any embodiment may be Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, p. 132 / 290 91 / 152 combined in any way and / or combination, unless such features are inconsistent.

[0395] For the sake of clarity, the terms “may”, “and / or”, “e.g.”, “for example”, and any similar term used in the present invention should be interpreted as non-limiting, so that any feature thus described does not need to be present. In fact, any combination of optional features is expressly considered without departing from the scope of the invention, whether they are expressly claimed or not.

[0396] The applicant has the right to change any claim originally filed or to file any new claim, consequently including the right to amend any claim originally filed to depend on and / or incorporate any feature of any other claim, even if not originally claimed in that manner. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0397] The embodiments of the invention will, for now, be described only by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0398] Figure 1 depicts a perspective view of a closure system according to a first example;

[0399] Figure 2 depicts a cross-sectional view of the closure system of Figure 1;

[0400] Figure 3 depicts a schematic representation of a cross-section of a portion of a mold stack from a mold assembly, taken along its operational geometric axis, for molding the closing system of Figures 1 and 2;

[0401] Figure 4 depicts a portion of the mold stack from Figure 3 in more detail;

[0402] Figure 5 depicts an injection molding system that includes a Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 133 / 290 92 / 152 mold incorporating a plurality of mold stacks, as shown in Figures 3 and 4;

[0403] Figure 6 depicts a schematic representation of a closing system conditioning system according to a first example;

[0404] Figure 7 depicts the closure system of Figures 1 and 2 installed on a container neck while the container is in an initial conditioning stage by the closure system conditioning system of Figure 6;

[0405] Figure 8 depicts a view similar to Figure 7 during a later stage of conditioning by the closure system conditioning system of Figure 6;

[0406] Figure 9 depicts a cross-sectional view of the arrangement shown in Figure 8;

[0407] Figure 10 depicts a cross-sectional view of a closure system according to another example;

[0408] Figure 11 depicts a schematic representation of a slot cutting machine for cutting slots of the closing system of Figure 10;

[0409] Figure 12 depicts an alternative slot cutting bar for use in the slot cutting machine of Figure 11;

[0410] Figure 13 depicts a schematic representation of a variation of the closing system conditioning system of Figure 6;

[0411] Figure 14 depicts a closure system according to another example installed in a container neck, since it is conditioned by the closure system conditioning system of Figure 6;

[0412] Figure 15 depicts a cross-sectional view of the closure system of Figure 14;

[0413] Figure 16 depicts a closing system according to another Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 134 / 290 Example 93 / 152 installed in a container neck, as it is conditioned by the closing system conditioning system of Figure 6 using a welding configuration;

[0414] Figure 17 depicts a closure system according to another example installed in a container neck, since it is conditioned by the closure system conditioning system of Figure 6 using a welding configuration;

[0415] Figure 18 depicts a closure system according to another example installed in a container neck, since it is conditioned by the closure system conditioning system of Figure 6 using a welding configuration;

[0416] Figure 19 depicts a closure system according to another example installed in a container neck, since it is conditioned by the closure system conditioning system of Figure 6 using a welding configuration;

[0417] Figure 20 depicts a schematic representation of a closing system conditioning system according to another example;

[0418] Figure 21 depicts a schematic representation of a closing system conditioning system according to another example;

[0419] Figure 22 depicts a closure system according to another example installed in a container neck;

[0420] Figure 23 is an enlarged view of the tamper evidence feature of the locking system in Figure 22;

[0421] Figure 24 depicts a closure system according to another example installed in a container neck;

[0422] Figure 25 depicts a side view of a closure system according to another example; Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 135 / 290 94 / 152

[0423] Figure 26 depicts a partial cutaway view of a lower portion of the cylindrical skirt and evidence strip of tampering with the closure system of Figure 25;

[0424] Figure 27 is a view similar to that in Figure 26 with the tamper evidence tab warped inwards;

[0425] Figure 28 depicts a schematic top view of rolling mills of a closing system conditioning system according to another example, in operation;

[0426] Figure 29 depicts a schematic side view of the arrangement in Figure 28 with the container body omitted;

[0427] Figure 30 depicts a schematic top view of a wire of a closing system conditioning system according to another example, in operation;

[0428] Figure 31 depicts a schematic side view of the arrangement in Figure 30 with the container body omitted;

[0429] Figure 32 depicts a schematic top view of an infrared emitter of a closing system conditioning system according to another example, in operation;

[0430] Figure 33 depicts a schematic side view of the arrangement in Figure 32 with the container body omitted;

[0431] Figure 34 depicts a schematic top view of a microwave emitter of a closing system conditioning system according to another example, in operation;

[0432] Figure 35 depicts a schematic side view of the arrangement in Figure 34 with the container body omitted;

[0433] Figure 36 depicts a schematic top view of an air blade of a closing system air conditioning system according to another Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 136 / 290 95 / 152 example, in operation;

[0434] Figure 37 depicts a schematic side view of the arrangement in Figure 36 with the container body omitted;

[0435] Figure 38 depicts a schematic top view of an ultrasonic device of a closing system conditioning system according to another example, in operation;

[0436] Figure 39 depicts a schematic top view of the wire in Figure 30 which reshapes another combination of closure system and container neck;

[0437] Figure 40 depicts a schematic side view of the arrangement in Figure 39 with the container body omitted;

[0438] Figure 41 depicts a schematic side view of another combination of closure system and container neck with the container body omitted;

[0439] Figure 42 depicts a cross-sectional view obtained along line AA in Figure 41;

[0440] Figure 43 depicts a view similar to Figure 42, but showing an alternative arrangement;

[0441] Figure 44 depicts a partial cutaway view of a lower portion of another container closure and neck system combination;

[0442] Figure 45 is a view similar to that in Figure 44 with the tamper evidence strip distorted inwards;

[0443] Figure 46 depicts a partial cutaway view of a lower portion of another container closure and neck system combination;

[0444] Figure 47 is a view similar to that in Figure 46 with the tamper evidence strip narrowed inward;

[0445] Figure 48 depicts a schematic side view of another combination of closure system and container neck with a separate connecting ring and with the container body omitted; Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 137 / 290 96 / 152

[0446] Figure 49 depicts the combination of the closure system and container neck of Figure 48 with the redesigned connecting ring to engage the tamper-evident strip from the closure system to the container neck;

[0447] Figure 50 depicts a schematic side view of a pair of wires of a closing system conditioning system according to another example, in operation;

[0448] Figure 51 depicts a partial cutaway view of a lower portion of a container closure and neck combination after it has been conditioned using the arrangement shown in Figure 50;

[0449] Figure 52 depicts a partial cross-sectional view of a lower portion of another container closure and neck system combination before it has been conditioned;

[0450] Figure 53 is a view similar to that in Figure 52 which shows the tamper evidence strip of the locking system after it has been reshaped;

[0451] Figure 54 depicts another combination of closure system and container neck with the container body omitted and in which the tamper evidence strip includes a non-frangible connection to the cylindrical skirt;

[0452] Figure 55 depicts another combination of closure system and container neck with the container body omitted and in which the tamper evidence strip includes a plurality of axial ribs;

[0453] Figure 56 depicts a schematic representation of a capper incorporating a heating ring for conditioning closure systems as they are installed on container necks;

[0454] Figure 57 depicts a schematic representation of a capping device incorporating a laser for conditioning closure systems as they are installed on container necks; Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 138 / 290 97 / 152

[0455] Figure 58 depicts a partial cutaway view of a lower portion of another closure system in a mold core immediately after molding;

[0456] Figure 59 is a view similar to that in Figure 58 which illustrates the tamper-evident strip that is deformed outward as it is ejected from the mold core;

[0457] Figure 60 depicts a partial cutaway view of a lower portion of another closure system in a mold core immediately after molding;

[0458] Figure 61 is a view similar to that in Figure 60 which illustrates the tamper-evident strip that is deformed outward as it is ejected from the mold core;

[0459] Figure 62 depicts a cross-sectional view of a closure system according to another example; and

[0460] Figure 63 depicts a closing system according to another example;

[0461] Figure 64 depicts a closing system according to yet another example;

[0462] Figure 65 depicts a schematic representation of another closing system conditioning system incorporated into a labeler or capper;

[0463] Figure 66 depicts a schematic representation of a closing system conditioning system according to another example; and

[0464] Figure 67 depicts a schematic representation of a closing system conditioning system according to yet another example;

[0465] Figure 68 depicts a perspective view of a closure system according to another example; Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 139 / 290 98 / 152

[0466] Figure 69 depicts a cross-sectional view of the closure system of Figure 68;

[0467] Figure 70 depicts the closure system of Figures 68 and 69 installed on a container neck while the container is in an initial stage of conditioning by the closure system conditioning system of Figure 6;

[0468] Figure 71 depicts a cross-sectional view of the arrangement shown in Figure 70 during a later stage of conditioning by the closing system conditioning system of Figure 6;

[0469] Figure 72 depicts a schematic top view of rolling mills of a closing system conditioning system according to another example, in operation;

[0470] Figure 73 depicts a perspective view of a closure system according to another example;

[0471] Figure 74 depicts a top view of the closing system of Figure 73 after the removal of a container neck;

[0472] Figure 75 depicts a cross-sectional view of a closure system according to another example;

[0473] Figure 76 depicts a schematic exploded side view of another combination of closure system and container neck with a separate connecting ring;

[0474] Figure 77 depicts the combination of the closure system and container neck of Figure 76 with the connection ring and tamper evidence hooks of the closure system engaged to the container neck;

[0475] Figure 78 depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of part of another closure system with an integral connecting ring during installation in a container neck; Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 140 / 290 99 / 152

[0476] Figure 79 depicts the combination of the closure system and container neck of Figure 78 with the connecting ring engaged to the tamper evidence strip of the closure system with the container neck;

[0477] Figure 80 depicts a schematic top view of a closing system conditioning system according to another example, in operation, and which illustrates a horizontal laser intensity distribution to which the closing system is subjected;

[0478] Figure 81 depicts a schematic top view of a closing system conditioning system according to another example, in operation, and which illustrates a horizontal laser intensity distribution similar to Figure 80;

[0479] Figure 82 illustrates an example of vertical laser intensity distribution associated with the horizontal laser intensity distribution to which the closure system is subjected by the closure system conditioning systems of Figures 80 and 81;

[0480] Figure 83 depicts a schematic top view of a closing system conditioning system according to yet another example, which includes a scanning lens;

[0481] Figure 84 depicts a schematic top view of a closing system conditioning system according to yet another example, which includes a serrated reflector;

[0482] Figure 85 depicts an enlarged view of the irradiation of the closure systems by the beam reflected from the system in Figure 84;

[0483] Figure 86 depicts a schematic top view of a closing system conditioning system according to yet another example with a modified serrated reflector; and

[0484] Figure 87 depicts an enlarged view of the irradiation of the systems of Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 141 / 290 100 / 152 closure by the reflected beam in the system of Figure 86;

[0485] Figure 88 depicts a perspective view of an alternative means of transport;

[0486] Figure 89 depicts a view of the alternative means of transport in Figure 88;

[0487] Figure 90 depicts one side of the alternative means of transport in Figure 88. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0488] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, a closure system 1 is shown for sealing the opening of a container neck 2 (shown in Figures 7 to 9). In this example, both the closure system 1 and the container neck 2, in which it is to be installed, are made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET). However, it is considered that the closure system 1 can be made from another material, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE). In fact, all the closure systems described below can be made from PET or HDPE.

[0489] The closure system 1 includes a top wall 3, a side wall or a cylindrical skirt 4 that depends on the top wall 3 and that has a substantially flat edge 40 that describes an open end of the closure system 1. The closure system 1 also includes an annular tamper-evident strip 5 connected frangibly to the flat edge 40 of the cylindrical skirt 4 by a plurality of bridges 41.

[0490] The tamper-evident strip 5 includes, in this example, a substantially cylindrical inner surface 50, which is smooth, undefined, and devoid of engagement features. Thus, an engagement feature or flange 20 of the container neck 2 (shown in Figure 9) can be inserted into it freely. The tamper-evident strip 5 also has a radial wall thickness. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 142 / 290 101 / 152 substantially uniform, but tapers towards its open end 51. In this example, the substantially uniform radial wall thickness of the tamper evidence strip 5 is approximately 0.4 mm. However, it is considered that it could be thinner, for example, 0.3 mm, or thicker, but it is preferably 0.5 mm or less.

[0491] The closure system 1 includes, in this example, a gripping feature 6 in the form of a screw thread 60 that protrudes from an inner surface of the cylindrical skirt 4 and is integrally formed therein. The closure system 1 also includes sealing features 7 in the form of internal and external annular sealing elements 70, 71, which depend on the upper wall 3 and are integrally formed therein. It will be recognized that one or more screw threads 60 may be included, or a fitting in the feature may be included, instead of the screw thread 60.

[0492] With reference now to Figures 3 to 5, a portion of a mold stack 102 is shown, taken along its operational geometric axis, for molding the clamping system 1 of Figures 1 and 2. The mold stack 102 may be part of a mold 101, shown in Figure 5, which is positionable in a clamp 10 of an injection molding machine 11. Note that the implementation of the mold 101, the clamp 10 and the injection molding machine 11 may be typical with respect to prior art implementations and, therefore, will not be described in detail in the present invention. The mold 101 need not be an injection mold. It may instead be an injection compression mold, a compression mold, a transfer mold and the like (as well as the associated machines).

[0493] The mold stack 102 includes a core assembly 104 and a cavity assembly 106. The cavity assembly 106 comprises an entry insert 108 and a cavity insert 110. The general purpose is intended to allow the insert to Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 143 / 290 102 / 152 inlet 108 receives, in use, a nozzle (not pictured) from a hot chamber 12 and provides a path for molten material into a molding cavity 112. The cavity insert 110 defines a portion of the molding cavity 112 and, more specifically, an outer part of the top wall 3 and the cylindrical skirt 4 of the closing system 1, which is defined in the molding cavity 112. The cavity insert 110 also includes cooling channels through which a suitable coolant (such as water and the like) can circulate during the appropriate portions of the molding cycle.

[0494] The core assembly 104 includes a first inner core 116, a second inner core 118, an outer core 120, an extractor sleeve 122 and a pair of partitioned inserts 124. Since the general function of the components of the core assembly 104 is known to those skilled in the art, only a brief description thereof will be presented in the present invention.

[0495] The purpose of the first inner core 116 is to define an inner portion of the upper wall 3 of the closure system 1. In this example, the first inner core 116 includes a first inner core portion 126 and a second inner core portion 128. The first inner core portion 126 and the second inner core portion 128 can be produced from different materials, such as materials with different thermal conductivity, materials with different wear resistance, and the like. The first inner core portion 126 and the second inner core portion 128 can be produced from different materials to optimize heat dissipation between portions thereof. The first inner core portion 126 can, for example, be produced from stainless steel (DIN: 14528) and the second inner core portion 128 can be produced from AMPCOLOY 940. Other materials are also considered.

[0496] The first inner core 116 can be composed of more than two portions or it can be a unitary structure. The first inner core 116 is Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 144 / 290 103 / 152 configured, under the motivation of an actuator (not depicted), to move in an axial direction. The first inner core 116 includes an internal cooling channel (not separately numbered) through which a suitable coolant (such as water and the like) can circulate during the appropriate portions of the molding cycle.

[0497] The purpose of the second inner core 118 is to define a portion of the upper wall 3 of the closure system 1. The second inner core 118 also defines a portion of a sealing plug (not separately numbered), wherein the sealing plug depends on the upper wall 3 of the closure system 1. The second inner core 118 is stationary in this example.

[0498] The purpose of the outer core 120 is to define (i) another portion of the sealing plug and the upper wall 3 of the closure system 1 (which includes the centering ring thereof), (ii) an inner portion of the cylindrical skirt 4 of the closure system 1 which includes the thread 60, and (iii) a more inner and bottommost portion of a tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system 1. In this example, the outer core 120 includes a first outer core portion 130 and a second outer core portion 132. The first outer core portion 130 and the second outer core portion 132 may be produced from different materials, such as materials with different thermal conductivity, materials with different wear resistance, and the like. In some examples, the first outer core portion 130 and the second outer core portion 132 may be produced from different materials to optimize heat dissipation between portions thereof.The first outer core portion 130 may, but does not have to, be produced from stainless steel (DIN: 1.2767), and the second outer core portion 132 may be produced from AMPCOLOY 940. The outer core 120 may, but does not have to, be composed of more than two portions or may be a unitary structure.

[0499] The first portion of outer core 130 is configured to define the Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 145 / 290 104 / 152 innermost and bottommost portion of the tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system 1. As explained above, the tamper-evident strip 5 has a substantially cylindrical inner surface 50, which is smooth, undefined, and devoid of engagement features. As a result, demolding the outer core 120, specifically the first portion of the outer core 130, is easier and places less stress on the bridges 41 and the tamper-evident strip 5. As a result, these features can be thinner, saving even more weight. The first portion of the outer core 130 could also describe part of the inner portion of the cylindrical skirt 4, but this is not the case in this example.

[0500] The second outer core portion 132 is configured to define the sealing plug portion, the inner surfaces of the skirt 4 and the previously mentioned upper wall portion 3 of the closing system 1. The outer core 120 is configured, under the motivation of an actuator (not depicted), to move in an axial direction.

[0501] The partitioned inserts 124 are configured to define part of the outer portion of the skirt 4 of the closing system 1, including, but not limited to, a tamper-evident strip 5 and bridges 41 that connect the tamper-evident strip 5 to the remainder of the skirt 4 of the closing system 1. The pair of partitioned inserts 124 is configured, under the motivation of an actuator (not depicted), to move in a transverse direction.

[0502] The ejector sleeve 122 is configured to assist in the extraction of the closing system 1 from the mold stack 102, as will be described in detail below. The ejector sleeve 122 is configured, under the motivation of an actuator (not depicted), to move in an axial direction, i.e., left and right, as observed in Figure 3. More specifically, the ejector sleeve 122 is configured to move between a retracted configuration depicted in Figure 3 and an extended configuration, which is not depicted, but which is generally axially located to Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 146 / 290 105 / 152 right, as observed in Figure 3.

[0503] Figure 4 depicts a portion of the mold stack 102 in more detail. The ejector sleeve 122 includes a pocket 123. The pocket 123 is defined by a first axial wall 125 and a second transverse wall 127. In use, during the part ejection function, the ejector sleeve 122 is extended, under the motivation of an actuator (not depicted), towards the extended configuration, wherein, in the extended configuration, the ejector sleeve 122 engages the bottommost portion of the closure system 1. More specifically, the pocket 123 engages the bottommost portion of the tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system 1.

[0504] More specifically, the second transverse wall 127 engages the lower side of the bottommost portion of the tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system 1 and effectively pushes it with additional movement of the extractor sleeve 122. At the same time, the first axial wall 125 engages a lateral portion of the tamper-evident strip 5 and provides a stop (i.e., a physical stop) that delimits the extent of radial displacement of the tamper-evident strip 5, the radial displacement occurring as the closure system 1 is extracted from the mold stack 102 and, especially, as portions of the closure system 1 release portions of the outer core 120 (such as portions of the first outer core portion 130). For clarification, the term radial displacement means displacement in a direction that is transverse to the geometric axis of the mold stack 102.

[0505] While the first axial wall 125 and the second transverse wall 127 are interposed at a 90-degree angle to each other, this can be varied. Thus, the first axial wall 125 and the second transverse wall 127 can be interposed at a different angle to each other.

[0506] In this example, pocket 123 has a depth that isolates the tamper strip 5 from an axially directed ejection force applied to the system. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 147 / 290 106 / 152 closure 1 to remove the same from the core assembly 104. More specifically, the pocket depth is substantially equal to a combined height or axial length of the tamper evidence strip 5 and the tips 41. As a result, an upper surface 129 of the extractor sleeve 122, adjacent to the pocket 123, comes into contact with part of the margin 40 of the cylindrical skirt 4 during ejection, thus transferring the ejection force to it.

[0507] Consequently, the ejector sleeve 122 is mobile to come into contact with a closure system 1 after the closure system 1 has been molded or, in other words, the ejector sleeve 122 does not define any portion of the molding cavity 112 during the molding of the closure system 1. The ejector sleeve 122 includes a first surface (i.e., the first axial wall 125) and a second surface (i.e., the second transverse wall 127), which simultaneously engage, during the extraction of the closure system 1, a side surface and a bottom side of the closure system 1 (and, more specifically, the bottom side and the side portion of the bottommost portion of the closure system 1, i.e., the tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system 1).At the same time, the upper surface 129 of the extractor sleeve 122 comes into contact with part of the margin 40 of the cylindrical skirt 4, thus transferring most of the ejection force to it and inhibiting damage or excessive deformation of the tamper-evident strip 5 and the bridges 41.

[0508] In this example, the molding process begins with the action of pushing the mold stack 102 into a closed mold position, as depicted in Figure 3. The mold stack 102 is actuated and held in the closed mold configuration by the clamp 10 of the injection molding machine 11 under sufficient clamp tonnage (i.e., tonnage sufficient to withstand the injection pressure of the molding material). More specifically, the core assembly 104 and the cavity assembly 106 are pushed into the closed mold configuration, wherein the Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 148 / 290 Molding cavity 112, 107 / 152, is defined and available for acceptance of the molding material.

[0509] So, in the closed mold configuration, molding material is injected, under pressure, into the molding cavity 112 through an orifice (not separately numbered) in the entry insert 108. The molding material is then allowed to cool, typically, as the molding material solidifies and cools, it shrinks. In this way, a packing function can be performed, whereby extra molding material is injected into the molding cavity 112 to compensate for the shrinkage of the molding material.

[0510] The molding material is allowed to cool to a temperature that is safe for ejecting the closure system 1 without significant structural damage to it. At this point, when the molding material has cooled sufficiently and the closure system 1 has solidified sufficiently for safe ejection, the molded article ejection process begins.

[0511] First, the clamp tonnage is released. Then, a core plate (not pictured) accommodating the core assembly 104 is driven in the opposite direction of a cavity plate (not pictured) accommodating the cavity assembly 106, or vice versa, the cavity plate being driven in the opposite direction of the core plate. Since the closure system 1 tends to shrink as it cools and due to the number of lower cuts associated with the closure system 1, the closure system 1 tends to be associated with the core assembly 104. Once the closure system 1 sufficiently releases the portion of the molding cavity 112 associated with the cavity insert 110, the partitioned inserts 124, under the control of the appropriate actuator (not pictured), are transversely driven in the opposite direction of the outer core 120, thus releasing the tamper-evident strip 5 from the closure system 1.

[0512] Next, under the motivation of the appropriate actuator (not depicted), the Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 149 / 290 108 / 152 extractor sleeve 122 is operated in the extended configuration, with pocket 123 engaging the bottommost portion of the tamper-evident strip 5 of the locking system 1.

[0513] Next, the first inner core 116, the outer core 120 and the extractor sleeve 122 move in unison to effectively release the sealing plug of the closing system 1 from the intermediate part between the second inner core 118 and the outer core 120 (bearing in mind that, in such examples, the second inner core 118 is stationary).

[0514] Once the sealing plug of the closing system 1 is released, the outer core 120 becomes stationary (e.g., by means of the actuator locking it by means of a physical stop) and the first inner core 116 and the extractor sleeve 122 continue to move. The first inner core 116 and the extractor sleeve 122 may, but must not, continue to move in unison until the closing system 1 is extracted from the first inner core 116. In other examples, the first inner core 116 may, at some point, become stationary (e.g., by means of an actuator locking it or by means of a physical stop) and the extractor sleeve 122 may complete the extraction action.

[0515] Effectively, at this point, the closing system 1 is released (or extracted) from the mold stack 102.

[0516] With reference now to Figure 6, a conditioning system of a closure system 8 is schematically shown which engages the tamper-evident strip 5 of each of a plurality of closure systems 1 to a respective container 9. The system 8 includes a source of electromagnetic radiation, in the form of a laser emitter 80, and a means of transport, in the form of first and second conveyors 81,82, to transport and rotate the containers 9 in a single process through the system 8. The containers 9 are, in this example, substantially cylindrical. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pages 150 / 290 109 / 152

[0517] The laser emitter 80 is operable to emit laser light, for example, a plane laser beam 83, towards the tamper-evident strips 5 as they are conveyed by the conveyors 81,82. The first conveyor 81 provides a horizontal motion surface 84, which may be provided by a belt or chain link arrangement, as is generally known in the art. The second conveyor 82 includes an endless conveyor 85, which extends between a pair of vertically oriented laminators 86, at least one of which is driven to cause the endless conveyor to move, thus providing a vertical motion surface 87 that is substantially perpendicular to the horizontal motion surface 84 of the first conveyor 82.

[0518] A damper B on the opposite side of the first conveyor 81 with respect to the second conveyor 82 slides the containers 9 together to enable them to rotate, while maintaining their engagement with the second conveyor as they move along the first conveyor 81. Certainly, the damper B can be replaced by an additional conveyor that moves in the same direction as the first conveyor 81 and in a manner suitable to enable or encourage the containers 9 to rotate at the desired speed.

[0519] The conditioning system 8 also includes a photoelectric emitter Pi and a reflector P2, both upstream and downstream of the conveyors 81,82, to provide photoelectric barriers to detect the presence of containers 9 that are transported along them. These photoelectric barriers are used to selectively activate and deactivate the laser emitter 80 at appropriate times.

[0520] Since the containers 9 are transported along the first conveyor 81 in a first direction D1, their cylindrical sides come into contact with the vertical moving surface 87 of the second conveyor 82, which moves in a second direction D2, opposite to the first direction. As a result, Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 151 / 290 110 / 152 the containers 9 rotate as they move along the first conveyor 81, thus radiating at least part of the tamper-evident strip 5 over their entire circumference, as it moves through the system 8 along the Di direction.

[0521] As illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, the flat laser beam 83 is directed at a lower portion of the tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system 1, adjacent to its open end 51. The laser beam 83 is configured to irradiate the tamper-evident strip 5 for approximately 0.5 seconds with a laser that has a power of approximately 150 W. This causes the heated region to contract, which creates an inner rim 52, or a lower cut, which has an inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the container neck flange 20.

[0522] Without adhering to any particular theory, it is believed that the contraction of the heated region of the tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system occurs due to differentially applied heat. More specifically, by directing such a laser beam 83 for such a period of time onto the outer surface of the tamper-evident strip, it is possible that the outer surface is heated while the surface on the opposite, inner side of the tamper-evident strip 5 remains at a much lower temperature. Without adhering to any particular theory, it is believed that this differential temperature creates the 'curling' effect that generates the bezel 52 shown in Figure 9. Furthermore, it is believed that this 'curling' effect is linked to the coefficient of thermal expansion of the material. In this way, the material can be selected or modified to have a particular or desired coefficient of thermal expansion.

[0523] Figure 9 shows the closure system 1 installed on the neck 2 of the container 9. As shown, the neck 2 includes the tamper-evident flange 20, a support protrusion 21 below the tamper-evident flange 20 and Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 152 / 290 111 / 152 threads 22 above the tamper-evident flange 20, to engage with the screw thread 60 of the locking system 1. The inner rim 52 projects towards the container neck 2, below the tamper-evident flange 20.

[0524] In this example, system 8 is preferably configured to ensure that the inner rim 52 of the closure system is formed, or reshaped, with an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the neck 2 between the flange 20 and the support protrusion 21 underneath, thus allowing the tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system 1 to rotate relative to the flange 20 of the container neck 2. This rotation can assist in removing the closure system 1 from Figures 1 and 2. However, it may be advantageous to configure system 8 to cause the inner rim 52 to be contracted at the engagement point of the outer diameter of the neck 2, below the flange, preventing or inhibiting rotation of the closure system. The aforementioned approach ensures that tamper-evident evidence can be similarly applied to closure systems that do not need to rotate, for example, snap-fit ​​closure systems.

[0525] Furthermore, it is considered that the tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system 1 may, in some cases, be provided with notches or tabs, not shown, such as those well known in the art. However, in contrast to a traditional package, i.e., container and molded closure system, the notches and / or tabs of the closure system are configured to prevent or minimize physical interaction with complementary features, e.g., flange (also called a “pilfer-type microsphere”), of the neck finish during the initial application of the closure system. Only after reshaping the tamper-evident strip, at least in part, are the notches and / or tabs positioned to interact / engage with the flange on the neck finish to secure the tamper-evident strip to the neck finish. In contrast, in a traditional package, the notches and / or tabs of the system Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 153 / 290 112 / 152 closures are configured to physically interact, i.e., engage by fitting, with complementary features, for example, flange (or pilfer-type microsphere), of the neck finish with the initial application of the closure system.

[0526] Turning now to Figure 10, a closure system 1' is shown, according to another example that is similar to the closure system 1 described above, with similar features depicted with similar references with the addition of a '. These features will therefore not be further described. The closure system 1', according to this example, is essentially identical to that shown in Figures 1 and 2, but differs in that it is molded with a continuous membrane 41a' that joins the tamper-evident strip 5' to the cylindrical skirt 4'. In this example, the outer surface of the membrane 41a' is recessed relative to the outer surface of the tamper-evident strip 5', so that the thickness of the membrane 41a' is reduced.This simplifies the mold stack 102 because, firstly, the features that define the bridges 41 can be omitted and, secondly, because the resulting molded connection between the tamper-evident strip 5' and the cylindrical skirt 4' is stronger, making the closure system 1' less fragile and thus simplifying demolding.

[0527] A frangible connection between the cylindrical skirt 4' and the tamper-evident strip 5' is formed by cutting slits, or otherwise cutting, the post-molding membrane 41a'. This can be done before its installation in the container neck 2, in which case the resulting post-slit-cut closure system 1' would be substantially identical to the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2.

[0528] Preferably, however, the closure system 1' is cut into slits after being installed on the container neck 2. Furthermore, the slit cutting can be performed before or after the tamper evidence strip 5' is irradiated by the smooth laser beam 83 of the closure system conditioning system 8 described above. In some advantageous embodiments, the slit cutting is performed after. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 154 / 290 113 / 152

[0529] Furthermore, it is considered that the 5' violation evidence strip of the T-locking system may, in some cases, be provided with meats or tabs, not shown, such as those well known in the art.

[0530] Figure 11 schematically shows a slot cutting machine 88 for cutting slots of the T-locking system of Figure 10. The slot cutting machine 88 includes a slot cutting bar 88a, which includes a toothed blade 88b for making perforations in the membrane 41a' of the T-locking system. The slot cutting machine 88 also includes a conveyor 89 with a plurality of carriages 89a mounted movably on it. Each carriage 89a includes a pair of laminators 89b, which impels one of the locking systems 1' against the slot cutting bar 88a.

[0531] The cars 89a can be configured to support the weight of the containers 9, for example, by encircling and supporting a lower surface of the support protrusion 21, or the slot cutting machine 88 can include a linear conveyor, similar to the first conveyor 84 of system 8 in Figure 6, on which the containers 9 can be supported.

[0532] In use, the cars 89a move along the conveyor 89 in the S direction, simultaneously propelling the locking systems 1' against the slot cutting bar 88a. As a result, the locking systems 1' roll along the slot cutting bar 88a and the toothed blade 88b pierces the membrane 41a' to create a frangible line. In an alternative, not shown, the slot cutting bar may include an elongated blade with defined breaks along it to form uncut portions that define the bridges of the locking system.

[0533] The 88 slot cutting machine can be incorporated into the 8 locking system conditioning system. As mentioned above, slot cutting can be performed before or after the 5' tamper evidence strip is applied. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 155 / 290 114 / 152 remodeled, for example, by irradiation with the smooth laser beam 83 of the system 8. In this way, the slot cutting machine 88 can be upstream or downstream of the laser 80. In some examples, the slot cutting machine 88 can be incorporated into the same section of the closing system conditioning system 8 as the laser 80.

[0534] For example, cars 89a can engage the cylindrical skirt 4' of the T-locking system on the same side as the laser 80, so that the smooth laser beam 83 irradiates the tamper evidence strip 5' underneath car 89a, while the slot cutting bar 88a simultaneously pierces the membrane 41a' to create the frangible line.

[0535] Other arrangements are also considered. In particular, the slit-cutting machine 88 may incorporate a laser or laser cutter, for example, instead of the arrangement described. In some examples, the laser emitter 80 of the system 8 may be operable to emit a laser capable of piercing or cutting slits in the membrane 41a'.

[0536] Furthermore, it is considered that the tamper-evident strip 5' of the closure system 1' may, in some cases, be provided with grooves or tabs, since the additional rigidity provided by the membrane 41a' mitigates some of the problems associated with the molding of PET closure systems when the tamper-evident strip is connected to the closure system by bridges.

[0537] Figure 12 illustrates a slot cutting bar 88a' similar to the slot cutting bar 88a of the slot cutting machine 88 of Figure 11 and can be used interchangeably with it in this example. The slot cutting bar 88a', according to this example, differs from that of the slot cutting machine 88 of Figure 11 in that it includes a plurality of points 88b' immediately below the toothed blade 88b. Each point 88b' is aligned with a break in the toothed blade 88b, so that the localized regions of the strip of Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 156 / 290 115 / 152 evidence of tampering 5' be perforated and / or deformed into and below each bridge formed by the serrated blade 88b.

[0538] These means of deforming the tamper-evident strip 5' may be used instead of, or in addition to, applying heat to deform the tamper-evident strip 5' as set forth above. Additionally, it is considered that some other means of mechanical deformation may be used, such as an annular protrusion that compresses the open end of the tamper-evident strip 5' to curl it inward and upward to provide the bezel 52, or any other suitable mechanical deformation mechanism.

[0539] In other examples, the slot cutting bar 88a, 88a' may be fitted with a heating element, for example, instead of the tips 88b', to reshape, thus, part of the locking system 1' or the tamper evidence strip 5'.

[0540] Figure 13 illustrates a closing system conditioning system 8' which is a variation of system 8 in Figure 6, with similar references depicting similar features with the addition of a closing system conditioning system 8' differs from that in Figure 6 in that the second conveyor 82' engages one side of the container neck 2, immediately below the flange 20, and the first conveyor 81 is replaced by a stationary part 81' which engages the opposite side of the container neck 2.

[0541] The second conveyor 82' operates in the D' direction, which also corresponds to the direction of movement of the containers 9. More specifically, the containers 9 move along the D' direction as they are rotated by the second conveyor 82' and roll along the stationary part 8T, while being irradiated by the laser emitter 80' in a manner similar to that described above. This approach can be advantageous, since the location of the closure system 1 is more precise and is not susceptible to variations in the height of the Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 157 / 290 116 / 152 containers 9.

[0542] Turning now to Figures 14 and 15, a closure system 201 is shown, according to another example that is similar to the closure system 1 described above, the similar features being depicted with similar references incremented by 200 and will therefore not be further described. The closure system 201, according to this example, differs from the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 in that it includes a tie rod 242 that connects the tamper-evident strip 205 to the cylindrical skirt 204.

[0543] In this example, the tamper-evident strip 205 includes a first annular portion 253 connected to the edge 240 of the cylindrical skirt 204 and a second annular portion 254 that depends on the first annular portion 253. The second annular portion 254 has a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the first annular portion 253, thus providing a radial step 255 on an outer surface of the tamper-evident strip 205.

[0544] By way of example, the radial wall thickness of the second annular portion 254 may, but need not, be 0.3 mm or less, since the first portion 253 imparts some stiffness to the tamper-evident strip 205. It will be recognized by persons skilled in the art that the tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 may also have a stepped radial wall thickness. This would also allow the radial thickness of the lower annular portion to be reduced, saving material and reducing the time required for it to deform when irradiated by the closure system conditioning system 8.

[0545] The tie rod 242 is described in the first annular portion 253, such that its radial thickness corresponds to that of the first and thickest annular portion 253. The tie rod 242 has a first end 242a connected to the lower margin of the cylindrical skirt 204, from which the tie rod 242 depends on a 90° elbow. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 158 / 290 117 / 152 242b, although this angle is not of critical importance. The tie rod 242 extends circumferentially from the elbow 242b along the tamper-evident strip 205 and is connected to it at a second end 242c. In this example, the bridges 241 that frangibly connect the tamper-evident strip 205 to the cylindrical skirt 204 are interrupted by the tie rod 242, so that there is no frangible connection between the tie rod 242 and the tamper-evident strip 205 or the cylindrical skirt 204. However, it is considered that the bridges 241 may be included to provide a frangible connection between the tie rod 242 and one or both of the tamper-evident strip 205 and the cylindrical skirt 204.

[0546] As in the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2, the plane laser beam 83 is directed at a lower portion of the tamper-evident strip 205 of the closure system 201, the second annular portion 254 in this case. Since the second annular portion 254 is irradiated, the residual circumferential stresses in it cause it to contract, creating an inner rim (not shown), similar to the rim 52 shown in Figure 9. The inner rim (not shown) has an inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the flange 20 of the container neck 2 and an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the neck 2 below the flange 20, thus ensuring that the closure system 201 is able to rotate to unscrew.

[0547] Turning now to Figure 16, a closure system 301 is shown, according to another example, which is mounted on a container neck 202. The closure system 301, according to this example, is similar to the first closure system 1 described above, with similar features depicted with similar references incremented by 300 and therefore not being further described. The closure system 301, according to this example, differs from the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 in that it is formed from HDPE and the tamper-evident strip 305 is shorter and more Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 159 / 290 118 / 152 fine. As an example, the 305 tamper-evident strip may be less than 0.3 mm thick.

[0548] To engage the tamper-evident strip 305 to the container neck 202, the characteristics of the plane laser beam 83' emitted from the conditioning system 8 are modified, compared to what is described above. In particular, the plane laser beam 83' is configured to weld the HDPE tamper-evident strip 305 from the closure system 301 to the flange 220 of the PET container neck 202. More specifically, the frequency of the laser beam 83' is selected to provide a wavelength that is readily absorbed by PET, but not HDPE, thus allowing the laser beam 83' to pass through the tamper-evident strip 305, but generate heat at the contact interface between the tamper-evident strip 305 and the flange 220 of the container neck 202.

[0549] When the locking system 301 is unscrewed for removal of the container neck 202, the bridges 341 that frangibly connect the tamper-evident strip 305 to the cylindrical skirt 304 are broken to rupture the tamper-evident strip 305 from the cylindrical skirt 304. The tamper-evident strip 305 remains on the flange 220 of the container neck 202, thus providing evidence of removal of the locking system 301.

[0550] Figure 17 shows a 401 closure system, according to another example that is similar to the 301 closure system of the immediately preceding example, with similar features depicted with similar references incremented by 100 and therefore not being further described. The 401 closure system, according to this example, differs from the 301 closure system of Figure 16 in that it is formed from PET.

[0551] To weld the tamper-evident strip 405 to the container neck 202, the angle of the flat laser beam 83” emitted from the conditioning system 8 is modified so that it is directed to the contact interface between Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 160 / 290 119 / 152 the PET tamper evidence strip 405 of the closure system 401 and the container neck flange 220 202, thus welding the tamper evidence strip 405 to the flange 220.

[0552] Figure 18 shows a 501 closure system, according to another example that is similar to the 401 closure system of the immediately preceding example, with similar features depicted with similar references incremented by 100 and therefore not further described. The 501 closure system, according to this example, differs from the 401 closure system of Figure 17 in that the 405 tamper evidence strip is omitted.

[0553] Instead, the 83” flat laser beam emitted from the conditioning system 8 is directed to the contact interface between the lower edge 540 of the cylindrical skirt 504 and the flange 320 of the container neck 302. In this example, the edge 540 of the cylindrical skirt 504 projects beyond the flange 320 of the container neck 302 and the 83” flat laser beam is angled to more accurately strike the contact interface between them.

[0554] The resulting weld between the cylindrical skirt 504 and the flange 320 creates a frangible connection between the flange 320 and the closure system 501. When the closure system 501 is unscrewed to remove the container neck 302, the weld retains a small portion 505 of the cylindrical skirt 504 on the flange 320. The presence of this small portion 505 of the cylindrical skirt 504 remaining on the flange 320 provides evidence of removal of the closure system 501.

[0555] Furthermore, it is considered that a lower portion of the cylindrical skirt 504 of this closure system 501 may be cut into slots, for example, using the slot cutting machine 88, to provide a tamper-evident strip before, or preferably after, the lower edge 540 is welded to the flange 320. However, this need not be the case.

[0556] Figure 19 shows a 601 closure system, according to Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 161 / 290 120 / 152 is another example that is similar to the 501 closure system of the immediately preceding example, with similar features depicted with similar references incremented by 100 and therefore not further described. The 601 closure system, according to this example, differs from the 501 closure system of Figure 18 in that the diameter of the 420 flange of the 402 container neck is substantially the same as that of the 640 lower margin of the 601 closure system.

[0557] This arrangement facilitates the use of a plane laser beam 83' emitted from the conditioning system 8 that is perpendicular to the geometric axis of the closure system 601 and container neck 420, similar to that used for the closure system 301 in Figure 16. The plane laser beam 83' is directed to the contact interface between the lower edge 640 of the cylindrical skirt 604 and the flange 420 of the container neck 402.

[0558] As occurs in the closure system 501 of Figure 18, the resulting weld between the cylindrical skirt 604 and the flange 420 creates a frangible connection between the flange 420 and the closure system 601. When the closure system 601 is unscrewed to remove the container neck 402, the weld retains a small portion 605 of the cylindrical skirt 604 on the flange 420. The presence of this small portion 605 of the cylindrical skirt 604 remaining on the flange 420 provides evidence of removal of the closure system 601.

[0559] Again, it is considered that a lower portion of the cylindrical skirt 604 of this closure system 601 can be cut into slots, using the slot cutting machine 88 of Figure 11, to provide a tamper-evident strip before, or preferably after, the lower edge 640 is welded to the flange 420.

[0560] With reference now to Figure 20, an alternative closing system conditioning system 208 is schematically shown which is Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 162 / 290 121 / 152 similar to system 8 of Figure 6, with similar features depicted with similar references incremented by 200 and therefore not further described. System 208, according to this example, differs from the previous system 8 in that the second carrier 82 is omitted and four sources of electromagnetic radiation, in the form of laser emitters 280, are included. For simplicity, the containers 9 fitted with the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 are shown, but it will be recognized that system 208 can be used with any of the closure systems 1, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601 described above.

[0561] The laser emitters 280 are all directed to, and uniformly distributed over, one of the closure systems 1 in one of the containers 9 carried only by the first conveyor 281 in a single process through the system 208. This irradiates substantially the entire circumference of the tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system 1 simultaneously, without the need to rotate the containers 9, as in system 8 of Figure 6. A person skilled in the art will recognize that some variation in the heat applied to each of the four quadrants of the tamper-evident strip 5 will occur and, in this way, the edge 52 may be interrupted or its radial depth may vary.

[0562] However, the four regions of the tamper-evident strip 5 directly aligned with the laser emitters 280 will provide four effective rim segments 52 to retain the tamper-evident strip 5 in the container neck 2. Similarly, the closure systems 301, 401, 501, 601 that are welded to the flange 220, 320, 420 will be welded in four regions, and a person skilled in the art will also recognize that it will be effective to perform the aforementioned tamper-evident functions.

[0563] With reference now to Figure 21, an alternative 308 closing system conditioning system is schematically shown which is Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 163 / 290 122 / 152 similar to system 208 immediately described above, with similar features depicted with similar references incremented by 100 and therefore not further described. System 308, according to this example, differs from the previous system 208 in that it includes two laser emitters 380, instead of four, which are on opposite sides of one of the closing systems 1.

[0564] Thus, heat will be applied to each of the two sides of the tamper-evident strip 5 and will vary, as described above, in relation to the quadrants. The rim 52 will therefore be interrupted and its radial depth will vary. However, the two regions of the tamper-evident strip 5 directly aligned with the laser emitters 280 will provide opposing rim segments 52 that are effective in retaining the tamper-evident strip 5 in the container neck 2. Similarly, the closure systems 301, 401, 501, 601 that are welded to the flange 220, 320, 420 will be welded in two regions, and a person skilled in the art will also recognize that it will be effective in performing the aforementioned tamper-evident functions.

[0565] Turning now to Figures 22 and 23, a 701 closure system is shown, according to another example that is similar to the 301 closure system of Figure 16, the similar features being depicted with similar references incremented by 400 and will therefore not be further described. The 701 closure system, according to this example, is also formed from HDPE, but differs from the 301 closure system of Figure 16 in that it includes a 705 tamper evidence panel instead of the 305 tamper evidence strip.

[0566] In this example, the tamper evidence panel 705 has a bottom edge 751 that outlines part of the margin 740 and is frangibly connected on three of its sides to a surrounding portion of the cylindrical skirt 704 by a Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 164 / 290 123 / 152 plurality of bridges 741. The tamper-evident panel 705 has a radial wall thickness that is less than that of a surrounding portion of the cylindrical skirt 704. By way of example, the radial wall thickness of the tamper-evident panel may, but does not have to, be 0.3 mm or less, and the radial wall thickness of the cylindrical skirt may, but does not have to, be 0.5 mm or more.

[0567] To attach the tamper-evident panel 705 to the container neck 502, the flat laser beam 83' emitted from the conditioning system 8 must be modified to provide a focused laser beam 83'” so as to avoid irradiating the surrounding portion of the cylindrical skirt 704. The focused laser beam 83'” is configured to weld the tamper-evident panel 705 to the container neck 502.

[0568] When the locking system 701 is unscrewed for removal of the container neck 502, the bridges 741 that frangibly connect the tamper-evident panel 705 to the cylindrical skirt 304 are broken to rupture the tamper-evident panel 705 from the cylindrical skirt 704. The tamper-evident panel 705 remains on the flange (not shown) of the container neck 502, thus providing evidence of removal of the locking system 701.

[0569] Figure 24 shows a closure system 801, according to another example that is similar to the closure system 701 of Figures 22 and 23, wherein the similar features are depicted with similar references incremented by 100 and will therefore not be further described. The closure system 801, according to this example, is also formed from HDPE, but differs from the closure system 701 of Figures 22 and 23 in that the tamper-evident panel 805 is directly attached to the surrounding portion of the cylindrical skirt 804.

[0570] It is preferable that the radial wall thickness of the tamper evidence panel 805 be, in this example, even smaller than that of the previous example, Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 165 / 290 124 / 152 since the panel 805 itself is broken upon removal of the closure system 801 from the container neck 502. By way of example, the radial wall thickness of the tamper-evident panel may, but does not have to, be 0.2 mm or less, and the radial wall thickness of the cylindrical skirt may, but does not have to, be 0.5 mm or more. As in the previous example, a focused laser beam 83”’ is configured to weld the tamper-evident panel 805 to the container neck 502.

[0571] Figures 25 and 26 show a closure system 901, according to another example that is similar to closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2, wherein the similar features are depicted with similar references incremented by 900 and will therefore not be further described. The closure system 901, according to this example, differs from closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 in that it includes a series of tabs 952 included, described or defined on the tamper-evident strip 905 and spaced about its periphery. Each tab 952 is connected to the tamper-evident strip 905 by a hinge 956. The other three sides describing the tab 952 are not connected to the tamper-evident strip 905, enabling the tab 952 to pivot around the hinge 956.The inner surface of each tab 952 is contiguous with respect to the surrounding inner surface of the tamper-evident strip 905, so that together they provide a substantially cylindrical inner surface 950, which is smooth, undefined and devoid of any engagement features.

[0572] The thickness of tab 952 is substantially less than the thickness of the tamper-evident strip, approximately half in this example. As a result, when heat is applied to the tamper-evident strip 905, tab 952 is susceptible to inward deformation before the surrounding portion of the tamper-evident strip 905. This allows the 8, 8' closure system conditioning systems of Figures 6 and 13 to be used with this closure system 901. However, it is also possible to use the conditioning systems Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 166 / 290 125 / 152 of closing system 208, 308 of Figures 20 and 21, with laser emitters 280, 380 directed towards flaps 952.

[0573] Irradiation of tabs 952 causes them to pivot inward around their hinges 956, to engage flange 220 in a manner similar to that of the inner rim 52 of the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2. In this way, a series of tabs 952 provides a discontinuous rim that provides a function similar to the inner rim 52 of the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2. The provision of tabs 952 can also reduce the irradiation time required to engage the closure system 901 to the container neck 2. Certainly, any combination of features suitable for providing a predetermined deformation is considered, for example, the tamper-evident strip 905 can be staggered so that it has a thinner portion that also deforms with the tabs 952.

[0574] Figures 28 and 29 show 480 laminators of a 408 closure system conditioning system, according to another example, in operation, and as they reshape the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 at the neck 2 of the container 9. Each of the 480 laminators includes an annular flange 483 that contacts the tamper-evident strip 5 to deform it inward, thus rotationally engaging the container neck flange 20.

[0575] In some examples, the 480 laminators are heated to deform the lower portion of the tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system 1 in a manner similar to that described above. However, in other examples, the 480 laminators may be used to mechanically deform a lower portion of the tamper-evident strip 5, which may be preheated, to provide the aforementioned bevel 52.

[0576] Figures 30 and 31 show a 580 wire of a system of Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 167 / 290 126 / 152 conditioning of closure system 508, according to another example, in operation, and as it reshapes closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 at the neck 2 of container 9. In this example, wire 580 comes into contact with tamper-evident strip 5 as closure system 1 and container 9 roll along wire 580.

[0577] As with 480 laminators, wire 580 can be heated to deform the lower portion of the tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system 1 in a manner similar to that described above, but it can alternatively not be heated and simply mechanically deform a lower portion of the tamper-evident strip 5 to provide the aforementioned bezel 52.

[0578] Figures 32 and 33 show an infrared emitter 680 of a closure system conditioning system 608, according to another example, in operation, and as it reshapes the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 at the neck 2 of the container 9. The infrared emitter 680 emits a smooth infrared beam 683, which irradiates a lower portion of the tamper evidence strip 5 in a manner similar to that of the laser beam 83 described above.

[0579] Although not shown, the locking system conditioning system 608 also includes a transport mechanism similar to that shown in Figures 6 and 13, which induces rotation of the locking system 1 and container 9 as the tamper evidence strip 5 is irradiated by the infrared beam 683.

[0580] Figures 34 and 35 show a microwave emitter 780 of a closure system conditioning system 708, according to another example, in operation, and as it reshapes the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 at the neck 2 of the container 9. The microwave emitter 780 emits a smooth microwave beam 783, which irradiates a lower portion of the tamper-evident strip 5 in a manner similar to that of the laser beam 83 and infrared beam. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 168 / 290 127 / 152 683 described above. The tamper-evident system conditioning system 708 also includes a transport mechanism that induces rotation of the tamper-evident system 1 and container 9 as the tamper-evident strip 5 is irradiated by the microwave beam 783,

[0581] Figures 36 and 37 show an air blade 880 of a closure system conditioning system 808, according to yet another example, in operation, and as it reshapes the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 at the neck 2 of container 9. The air blade 880 emits a smooth jet 883 of air, which impinges on a lower portion of the tamper-evident strip 5. As with the closure system conditioning systems 608, 708 of Figures 32 to 36, the closure system conditioning system 808, according to this example, also includes a conveying mechanism that induces rotation of the closure system 1 and container 9 as the tamper-evident strip 5 is irradiated by the microwave beam 783.

[0582] Preferably, the smooth jet of air 883 is heated before exiting the air blade 880, so as to deform the lower portion of the tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system 1 in a manner similar to that described above. However, in addition, it is considered that the air may be at ambient temperature and that the air jet 883 is supplied at a speed that mechanically deforms a lower portion of the tamper-evident strip 5 to provide the aforementioned bezel 52.

[0583] Figure 38 shows an ultrasonic device 980 of a closure system conditioning system 908, according to yet another example, immediately before the same reshaping of the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 on the neck 2 of a container 9. The ultrasonic device 980 includes a pair of opposing ultrasonic emitters 983 which is placed in contact with the tamper-evident strip 5 and emits ultrasonic waves to heat the strip of Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 169 / 290 128 / 152 evidence of violation 5 so that it deforms inward to engage with the neck 2.

[0584] Figures 39 and 40 show a locking system 1001, according to another example that is similar to locking system 1 of Figures 1 and 2, wherein similar features are depicted with similar references incremented by 1000 and will therefore not be further described. This locking system 1001 differs from locking system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 in that the tamper-evident strip 1005 includes an engagement flange 1055 that projects outwards.

[0585] The closure system 1001 is configured to be installed on the neck 1002 of a container 1009 according to another example. The container 1009 includes a flange 1020 having an integral annular wall 1023 (alternatively, extending radially) on its periphery, which encircles the engagement flange 1055 of the tamper-evident strip 1005. With the closure system 1001 installed on the neck 1002, the wire 580 of the closure system conditioning system 508 of Figures 30 and 31 can be used to deform the annular wall 1023 inward, in a manner similar to that of the tamper-evident strip 5 of the closure system 1.

[0586] The inward deformation of the annular wall 1023 causes it to engage the engagement flange 1055 of the tamper-evident strip 1005, allowing, at the same time, relative rotation between them. As a result, the tamper-evident strip 1005 is retained in the container neck 1002 when the closure system 1001 is first removed from it.

[0587] Figures 41 and 42 show the locking system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 on the neck 1102 of a container 1109 according to yet another example. The coupling flange 1120 of the container neck 1102, according to this example, includes four notches 1124 spaced on its periphery. With the system of Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 170 / 290 129 / 152 closure 1 installed on neck 1102, wire 580 heats the tamper-evident strip 5 to cause it to shrink into the engagement flange 1120. As a result, the regions of the tamper-evident strip that contract into the notches 1124 are deformed into them. This prevents relative rotation between the tamper-evident strip 5 and the container neck 1102, thus causing the bridges 41 to shear upon the first removal of the closure system 1 from the container neck 1102.

[0588] Figure 43 shows the cross-section similar to that of Figure 42, which shows the tamper evidence strip 5 of the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 on the neck 1202 of a container 1209 according to yet another example. In this example, the coupling flange 1220 of the container neck 1202 is oval, thus providing a pair of diametrically opposed protrusions 1224. With the locking system 1 installed on the neck 1202, the wire 580 (or other reshaping means) heats the tamper-evident strip 5 to cause it to shrink into the coupling flange 1220. As a result, the regions of the tamper-evident strip contract into the oval coupling flange 1220. This prevents relative rotation between the tamper-evident strip 5 and the container neck 1202, thus causing the bridges 41 to shear upon the first removal of the locking system 1 from the container neck 1202.

[0589] Figures 44 and 45 show the closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 in a container neck 1302 according to yet another example. In this example, the container neck 1302 includes a circumferential engagement groove 1320 that extends into the neck 1302 above the support protrusion 1321, instead of an outer radial flange 20. As a result, deformation of the tamper-evident strip 5 with the use of one of the previously mentioned closure system conditioning systems 8, 8', 208, 308, 408, 508, 608, 708, 808, 908 causes it to deform in the circumferential engagement groove 1320 of the neck. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 171 / 290 130 / 152 1302. This provides a rotary engagement between the tamper-evident strip 5 and the container neck 1302 similar to that provided by a coupling flange 20.

[0590] Figures 46 and 47 show a 1401 closure system, according to another example that is similar to closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2, wherein the similar features are depicted with similar references incremented by 1400 and will therefore not be further described. This 1401 closure system differs from closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 in that the 1441 bridges are longer. In this example, the bridges 1441 are also aligned with the coupling flange 20 when the closure system 1401 is on the neck of container 2. The tamper-evident strip 1405 is also shorter and is configured to be heated by one of the mechanisms described above along its entire height so that it contracts and stretches the bridges 1441 over the coupling flange 20, as illustrated in Figure 47. This makes the closure system 1401 even lighter than the closure system 1 in Figures 1 and 2.

[0591] Figures 48 and 49 show the closure system 1001 of Figures 39 and 40 on a container neck 1502, according to another example, and a connecting ring 1523 for engaging the tamper-evident strip 1005 of the closure system 1001 to a flange 1520 of the container neck 1502. With the closure system 1001 on the container neck 1502, the connecting ring 1523 is placed around the tamper-evident strip 1005 and the flange 1520, and heat is applied to the connecting ring 1523 so that it shrinks around the engagement flange 1055 of the tamper-evident strip 1005 and the flange 1520 of the container neck 1502. This creates a rotary engagement between the tamper-evident strip 1005 of the closing system 1011 and the flange 1520 of the container neck 1502.

[0592] Certainly, in addition, it is considered that the connecting ring 1523 can be replaced by a sleeve or a conduit, which can be thinner and / or larger. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 172 / 290 131 / 152 longer than the connecting ring 1523. The sleeve or cuff may engage the tamper-evident strip 1005 in a similar manner to the connecting ring 1523. Alternatively, the sleeve or cuff may itself include a tamper-evident feature. For example, it may include a first portion configured to remain in the closure system 1001 when it is removed from the container neck, a second portion configured to remain in the container neck 1502 when the closure system is removed from the container neck, and a frangible connection connecting the first and second portions, which is configured to break upon first removal of the closure system 1001.

[0593] Figures 50 and 51 show the locking system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 on a container neck 1602 according to yet another example. The container neck 1602, according to this example, includes a gripping feature 1606, in the form of an annular projection 1660, to provide a press-fit connection of the locking system 1. With the locking system 1 installed on the neck 1602, a pair of wires 580 of the locking system conditioning system 508 of Figures 30 and 31 can be used to simultaneously deform both the tamper-evident strip 5 and a portion of the cylindrical skirt 4 of the locking system 1, immediately below the press-fit projection 1660.As a result, the tamper-evident strip 5 shrinks into the space between the support protrusion 1621 and the engagement flange 1620, and the annular portion of the cylindrical skirt 4 below the press-fit projection 1660 deforms inward to form a radial press-fit projection 43. The resulting radial projection 43 on the cylindrical skirt 4 releasably engages the press-fit projection 1660 of the container neck 1602 to enable it to be opened and closed again.

[0594] Figures 52 and 53 show a 1701 closure system, according to another example that is similar to closure system 1 in Figures 1 and 2, with similar features depicted using similar references. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 173 / 290 132 / 152 increased by 1700 and will therefore not be described further. This closure system 1701 differs from closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 in that the tamper-evident strip 1705 includes hooking tabs 1757 on its inner surface.

[0595] The tamper-evident strip 1705 has a diameter that is sufficiently larger than that of the hams 1757 to pass freely through the engagement flange 20 of the container neck 2. With the locking system 1701 installed on the neck 2, the tamper-evident strip 5 is heated to shrink into the space between the support protrusion 1621. As a result, the hams 1757 are aligned with the engagement flange 20 of the container neck 2 so that they engage upon the first removal of the locking system 1701 from the container neck 2, thus separating the tamper-evident strip 5 from the cylindrical skirt 1704 of the locking system 1701.

[0596] Figure 54 shows a closure system 1801, according to another example that is similar to closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2, wherein the similar features are depicted with similar references incremented by 1800 and will therefore not be further described. This closure system 1801 differs from closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 in that the tamper-evident strip 1805 is segmented, each of the three parts being connected to the cylindrical skirt 1804 by a non-frangible connection 1858, in addition to the frangible bridges 1841. Tamper-evident strip 1805 includes frangible lines 1859 along its height, which separate it into three parts.

[0597] With the closure system 1801 installed on the neck 2, the tamper-evident strip 1805 is deformed in a manner similar to that of closure system 1 in Figures 1 and 2. However, upon the first removal of closure system 1801 from the neck of container 2, the bridges 1841 break and the frangible lines 1859 cause the tamper-evident strip 1805 to be separated into three Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 174 / 290 133 / 152 parts and the cylindrical skirt 1804 of the closure system 1801, breaking the tamper-evident strip 1805 open and releasing it from the neck of container 2. In this way, the segmented tamper-evident strip 1805 remains connected to the cylindrical skirt 1804 of the closure system 1801 by the non-frangible connection 1858.

[0598] Figure 55 shows a closure system 1901, according to another example that is similar to closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2, wherein the similar features are depicted with similar references incremented by 1900 and will therefore not be further described. This closure system 1901 differs from closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 in that the tamper-evident strip 1905 includes a plurality of axial ribs 1959.

[0599] With the 1901 closure system installed in neck 2, the tamper-evident strip 1905 is deformed in a manner similar to that of the 1 closure system in Figures 1 and 2. However, it is believed that the axial ribs 1959 create internal stresses when the 1901 closure system is cooled during the molding process. Without adhering to any theory, it is believed that these internal stresses result in further deformation when the tamper-evident strip 1905 is reheated and provide greater hardness to the bottom cut created by the deformed tamper-evident strip 1905.

[0600] Figure 56 shows a capper 1008 incorporating a heating ring 1080 surrounding a lower portion of each capping mandrel 1088. In use, as the closure systems 1 are installed on the necks 2 of the containers 9, the heating rings 1080 apply heat to the tamper-evident strip 5, causing it to shrink around the neck of container 2. As a result, the capper 1008 incorporates an integrated closure system conditioning system.

[0601] Similarly, Figure 57 shows a capper 1108 that incorporates Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pages 175 / 290 134 / 152 a laser 1180 aligned with one lower end of the capping mandrels 1188. For simplicity, only one laser 1180 is shown in Figure 57. In use, as the closing systems 1 are rotated to screw them into the necks 2 of the containers 9, the lasers 1180 irradiate the tamper-evident strip 5 as it rotates, causing it to shrink around the neck of container 2. As a result, the capper 1108 also incorporates an integrated closing system conditioning system.

[0602] It will be recognized that the timing or sequencing of the application of heat to the tamper-evident strip 5 in both cappers 1008, 1108 is configured to shrink the tamper-evident strip 5 only after the closing system 1 reaches a capped position on the container neck 2.

[0603] Figures 58 and 59 show a closure system 2001, according to another example that is similar to closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2, wherein the similar features are depicted with similar references incremented by 2000 and will therefore not be further described. This closure system 2001 differs from closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 in that the tamper-evident strip 2005 includes a circumferential recess 2057 on its inner surface, which is formed by an annular microsphere 2010 on the circumference of the outer mold core 120'.

[0604] When the closure system 2001 is ejected from the outer mold core 120', as shown in Figure 59, it stretches outward as it is propelled into the annular microsphere 2010. As a result, internal stresses are created during demolding. Without adhering to any theory, it is believed that these internal stresses result in further deformation when the tamper-evident strip 2005 is reheated and provide greater hardness to the bottom cut created by the deformed tamper-evident strip 2005. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 176 / 290 135 / 152

[0605] Figures 60 and 61 show a closure system 2101, according to another example that is similar to closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2, wherein similar features are depicted with similar references incremented by 2100 and will therefore not be further described. This closure system 2101 differs from closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 in that the tamper-evident strip 2105 is molded with an inward slope, as illustrated in Figure 60. This slope is formed by a conical portion 2110 of the outer mold core 120”.

[0606] When the closure system 2101 is ejected from the outer mold core 120”, as shown in Figure 61, it stretches outward as it is propelled into the straight cylindrical surface that forms the cylindrical skirt 2104 of the closure system 2101. As a result, internal stresses are created during demolding. These internal stresses are believed to result in further deformation when the tamper-evident strip 2105 is reheated and provide greater hardness to the bottom cut created by the deformed tamper-evident strip 2105.

[0607] Figure 62 shows a closure system 2201, according to another example that is similar to closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2, wherein similar features are depicted with similar references incremented by 2200 and will therefore not be further described. This closure system 2201 differs from closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2 in that the diameter of the tamper-evident strip 2205 is larger than that of the cylindrical skirt 2204 and is joined to it by a series of bridges 2241 that extend radially between the cylindrical skirt 2204 and the tamper-evident strip 2205. Furthermore, it is considered that the bridges 2241 may extend axially, so that they are angular with respect to the radial direction.

[0608] This arrangement avoids the need for partitioned inserts 124 in Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 177 / 290 136 / 152 mold stack 102, since the bridges 2241 can be described by the core and cavity assemblies 104, 106. The container neck (not shown) would also include an engagement feature, such as a flange, which has a diameter and axial length that are both similar to, but smaller than, the inner diameter of the tamper-evident strip 2205. With the closure system 2201 installed in the neck (not shown), the tamper-evident strip 2205 is deformed in a manner similar to that of closure system 1 of Figures 1 and 2.

[0609] Figure 63 shows a closure system 2301, according to another example that is similar to closure system 1 of Figure 10, similar features being depicted with similar references incremented by 2300 and will therefore not be further described. This closure system 2301 differs from closure system 1 of Figure 10 in that the outer surface of the continuous membrane 2341a is inwardly recessed relative to the tamper-evident strip 2305 and includes a series of axial ribs 2341b, which project from an inner surface of the membrane 2341a and across its width. The membrane 2341a has an outer surface that is flush with the outer surface of the tamper-evident strip 2305 and an inner surface that is recessed relative to the inner surface of the tamper-evident strip 2305.The inner surfaces of the axial ribs 2341b are contiguous with respect to the inner surface of the tamper-evident strip 2305, in this example, such that the thickness of the axial ribs 2341b is substantially equal to the thickness of the tamper-evident strip 2305.

[0610] As a result, the mold core (not shown) for forming the closure system 2301 would have a series of projections on its circumference, which would form recesses between the axial ribs 2341b. A person skilled in the art will recognize that the tamper-evident strip 2305 would expand as it is forced, in use, into these projections upon removal of the closure system 2301 from the mold core. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 178 / 290 137 / 152

[0611] Advantageously, the slit-cutting machine 88 of Figure 11 can be configured to cut slits in the membrane 2341a of the closure system 2301 over its entire circumference, but to a depth just sufficient to cut the membrane 2341a, leaving the axial ribs 2341b intact, so that they provide frangible bridges that join the tamper-evident strip 2305 to the cylindrical skirt 2304. The serrated blade 88b need not be serrated and can instead be continuous to provide a clean cut of the membrane 2341a between the axial ribs 2341b. These axial ribs 2341b can optimize the molding process, since they provide flow paths for molten plastic to fill the tamper-evident strip 2305, while at the same time minimizing the thickness of the membrane 2341a.With the 2301 closure system installed on bottleneck 2, the tamper-evident strip 2305 is deformed in a manner similar to that of closure system 1 in Figure 10.

[0612] It should be recognized that the inner surface of the axial ribs 2341b defines, as a whole, a circle that has a diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the membrane 2341a, but equal to the inner diameter of the tamper-evident strip 2305 in this case. In some examples, the inner surface of the axial ribs 2341b is recessed relative to the inner surface of the tamper-evident strip 2305, so that its thickness is less than that of the tamper-evident strip 2305. By way of example, the axial ribs 2341b may project from the inner surface of the membrane 2341a by 1 mm. However, these examples are not intended to be limiting in any way, and other configurations are also considered.

[0613] Furthermore, it is considered that membrane 2341a may be provided with a single, wide, axial rib 2341b which may have a thickness equivalent to that of the tamper-evident strip 2305. In such an example, membrane 2341a may be cut into slits in the same manner as the T-locking system of Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 179 / 290 138 / 152 Figure 10 to provide a plurality of bridges having a thickness equivalent to membrane 2341a. As a result, the axial rib 2341b could act as a tie rod to retain the closure system 2301 in the neck of container 2.

[0614] Furthermore, it is considered that the tamper-evident strip 2305 of the closure system 2301 may, in some cases, be provided with meats or tabs, not shown, such as those well known in the art.

[0615] Figure 64 shows a closure system 2401, according to yet another example that is similar to the closure system 2301 of Figure 63, similar features being depicted with similar references incremented by 100 and will therefore not be further described. This closure system 2401 differs from the closure system 2301 of Figure 63 in that the thickness of the continuous membrane 2441a is substantially equal to the thickness of the tamper-evident strip 2405, and the axial ribs 2441b project beyond the inner surface of the tamper-evident strip 2405.

[0616] A person skilled in the art will recognize that the mold core (not shown) for forming the locking system 2401 will therefore have a series of axial recesses, rather than projections, thus avoiding the need to expand the tamper-evident strip 2405 when removing the locking system 2301 from the mold core.

[0617] Figure 65 schematically shows another conditioning system of a closing system 1208 incorporated in a labeler or capper. The system 1208 includes a carousel 1281 with a polygonal mirror 1282 in its center and a laser 1280 directed at the polygonal mirror 1282 from a fixed position on the outside of the carousel 1281. The containers 9 are equally spaced on the carousel 1281 at their respective stations, and they undergo the labeling or capping process. As the containers 9 pass through the Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pages 180 / 290 139 / 152 positions adjacent to laser 1280, the beams 1283 are reflected from the polygonal mirror 1282 and onto the tamper-evident strips 5 of the locking systems 1 installed on the necks 2 of the containers 9, so that the tamper-evident strips 5 shrink around and engage the necks of container 2.

[0618] Furthermore, it is considered that the tamper-evident strip 2405 of the locking system 2401 may, in some cases, be provided with meats or tabs, not shown, such as those well known in the art.

[0619] Figure 66 illustrates a 1308 closure system conditioning system which is a variation of system 8 of Figure 6, with similar features depicted by similar references incremented by 1300. The 1308 closure system conditioning system differs from that of Figure 6 in that the flat laser source 80 is replaced by a laser array 1380. The laser array 1380 includes a source 1380a, a beam shaping optical device 1380b, in this case a focusing lens or telescope, a rotating polygonal mirror 1380c, and a series of concave mirrors 1380d, which are positioned elliptically in this example. The polygonal mirror 1380c is shown with twelve sides, but it may have more or fewer than twelve sides.

[0620] The source 1380a emits a laser beam 1383 through the beam shaping optical device 1380b, which restricts the vertical height (parallel to the geometric axis of the container 9) of the laser beam 1383 to provide a height-focused laser beam 1383a. The height-focused laser beam 1383a is then reflected by the rotating polygonal mirror 1380c, which rotates at a configured speed to provide a substantially continuous plane laser beam 1383b directed towards the tamper-evident strips 5 of the closure systems 1 in the containers 9 that move along the conveyor 1381.

[0621] This irradiates the tamper-evident strips 5 in a manner similar to the flat laser 83 in system 8 of Figure 6. However, this system of Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 181 / 290 Conditioning system 1308 includes a plurality of concave mirrors 1380d, each mounted on the conveyor 1381, adjacent to a respective system among the closure systems 1 on its side opposite the polygonal mirror 1380c. As a result, the portion of the substantially continuous plane laser beam 1383b that passes between adjacent closure systems 1 on the conveyor 1381 is reflected by the concave mirrors 1380d back and towards the tamper evidence strips 5. This irradiates the opposite side of the tamper evidence strips 5 simultaneously, thus optimizing the efficiency of conditioning system 1308.

[0622] It will be recognized by persons skilled in the art that such 1380d concave mirrors can be incorporated into the 8, 8' conditioning systems of Figures 6 and 9 to create a similar optimization.

[0623] Figure 67 illustrates a closing system conditioning system 1408' which is a variation of system 8' of Figure 13, with similar features depicted by similar references incremented by 1400. The closing system conditioning system 1408' differs from that of Figure 13 in that both conveyors 148T, 1482' engage the neck of container 2 instead of the body of container 9, and also in that the flat laser source 80' is replaced by a laser assembly 1480'. In this example, the laser assembly 1480' includes a source 1480a', a pair of deflection mirrors 1480b', an optical beam shaping device 1480c', in this case a focusing lens or a telescope, and a rotating polygonal mirror 1480d'. The polygonal mirror 1480d' is shown with twelve sides, but it can have more or fewer than twelve sides.

[0624] Source 1480a' emits a laser beam 1483', which is reflected through 180° by deflection mirrors 1480b' before passing through the beam reshaping optical device 1480c', which restricts the vertical height (parallel to the geometric axis of the container 9) of the laser beam 1483' to provide a height laser beam Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 182 / 290 141 / 152 focused 1483a'. The focused height laser beam 1483a' is then reflected by the rotating polygonal mirror 1480d', which rotates at a speed configured to separate the focused height laser beam 1483a' into distinct laser beams 1483b', each of which is directed towards one of the tamper-evident strips 5 of the closure systems 1 in the containers 9, as they move along the conveyors 1481', 1482'.

[0625] This irradiates the tamper evidence strips 5 in a manner similar to lasers 1283 in system 1208 of Figure 65.

[0626] Figures 68 and 69 show a closure system 2501, according to another example that is similar to closure system 1 of Figure 1, wherein the similar features are depicted with similar references incremented by 2500 and will therefore not be further described. This closure system 2501 differs from closure system 1 of Figure 10 in that it lacks the gripping feature 6, in the form of the screw thread 60, which protrudes from an inner surface of the cylindrical skirt 4. Instead, the inner surface 2509 of the skirt 2504 is substantially cylindrical, undefined and / or devoid of any molded gripping feature.

[0627] As a result, the mold core (not shown) for forming the 2501 closure system would have an undefined cylindrical outer surface in the region for molding the inner surface of the enclosure. A person skilled in the art will recognize that such a core, without encapsulated features, would facilitate core production and molded article ejection.

[0628] As illustrated in Figures 70 and 71, a thermal energy source, such as, for example, a laser beam 83 having component beams 83A and 83B, is directed at a selected region of the skirt 2504, as well as a lower portion of the tamper-evident strip 2505 of the closure system 2501, adjacent to its open end 2551. The thermal energy source is configured to radiate Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pages 183 / 290 142 / 152 the selected region of the skirt 2504 and the tamper-evident strip 2505. This causes the heated regions to be locally contracted, which creates a gripping feature 2506 on the inner surface 2509 of the skirt and an inner rim 2552, or a lower cut, which has an inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the container neck flange 20.

[0629] Advantageously, the gripping feature 2506 formed in the skirt 2505 forms a screw thread 2560 that conforms to a profile of the screw threads 22 of the container neck 2. That is, the screw threads 22 of the container neck 2 provide a molding surface to form the screw thread 2560 on the inner surface of the closure system.

[0630] Furthermore, with reference to Figure 72, the length of a heating tunnel, not shown, can be adapted to the need to additionally incorporate a pair of laminators 2580 with which the skirt 2504 and tamper-evident strip 2505 are pressed against the neck of container 2 to assist in reshaping them. A person skilled in the art will recognize that other sources of thermal energy are also considered.

[0631] Heated regions may also crystallize. This can provide both a visual indication of deformation and a stiffer gripping feature 2506, and inner rim 2552. In some cases, the entire closure system 2501 may be sufficiently heated to cause it to crystallize. This may also have the added advantage of optimizing barrier properties and reducing gas permeability.

[0632] Figures 73 and 74 show a 2601 closing system, according to another example that is similar to closing system 1 in Figure 1, with similar features depicted with similar references incremented by 2600 and therefore not further described. This 2601 closing system differs from closing system 1 in Figure 1 in that Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 184 / 290 143 / 152 the tamper evidence strip 2605 includes a non-frangible connection 2658 and a frangible line 2659 at its height, which is close to the non-frangible connection 2658.

[0633] With the closure system 2601 installed on a neck 2, the tamper-evident strip 2605 is deformed in a manner similar to that of the closure system 1 in Figures 1 and 2. However, upon the first removal of the closure system 2601 from the neck of container 2, the bridges 2641 break and the frangible lines 2659 cause the tamper-evident strip 2605 to also break and detach from the neck of container 2. This converts the tamper-evident strip 2605 into a strip affixed by the non-frangible connection 2658 to the cylindrical skirt 2604, as illustrated in Figure 74. In this way, the broken tamper-evident strip 1805 remains connected to the closure system 2601 upon removal from the neck of container 2.

[0634] Figure 75 shows a closure system 2701, according to another example that is similar to closure system 1 of Figure 10, wherein similar features are depicted without a ' and with similar references incremented by 2700 and will therefore not be further described. This closure system 2701 differs from closure system 1 of Figure 10 in that it includes a plurality of triangular edges 2757 that project inward from the violation evidence strip 2705.

[0635] As in the T-closure system of Figure 20, a frangible connection between the cylindrical skirt 2704 and the tamper-evident strip 2705 is formed by cutting slits, or otherwise cutting, the post-molding membrane 2741a. This can be done before its installation in the container neck 2 or after installation in the container neck 2.

[0636] However, unlike the closure system 1', the tamper-evident strip 2705 does not need to be irradiated, since the engagement to the flange 20 of the container neck 2 is achieved with the edges 2757. More specifically, the Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pages 185 / 290 144 / 152 edges 2757 are configured to pivot or bend along their connection line 2757a relative to the tamper-evident strip 2705 as the locking system 2705 is screwed onto the container neck 2, but to deploy the rotation of the locking system 2701 in the opposite direction, unscrewing. Once deployed, the edges 2757 engage the flange 20 of the container neck 2 to retain the tamper-evident strip 2705 thereon, breaking the frangible connection.

[0637] In some examples, the container neck 2 has a ratchet or engagement feature to cooperate with the edges 2757 to inhibit rotation of the tamper-evident strip 2705 during rotation of the locking system in the unscrewing direction. The engagement features may be serrated.

[0638] Figures 76 and 77 show a combination of closure system 2801 and connection ring 2823, according to another example, which is similar to the combination of closure system 1001 and connection ring 1523 of Figures 48 and 49, wherein similar features are depicted with similar references incremented by 1800 and 1300, respectively, and will therefore not be further described. This closure system 2801 differs from the closure system 1001 of Figures 48 and 49 in that the tamper-evident strip 2805 includes a plurality of hooks 2857.

[0639] The closure system 2801 can be molded with the hooks 2857 extended outwards, as illustrated in Figure 76, which can facilitate demolding and installation on the neck of container 2 in a way that reduces the stress to which the bridges 2841 are subjected. This can be particularly useful when the closure system 2801 is formed from polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0640] With the closure system 2801 on the neck of container 2, the connecting ring 2823 is placed around the tamper-evident strip 2805 and its hooks 2857, and heat is applied to the connecting ring 2823 so that the same Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 186 / 290 145 / 152 shrink around the hooks 2857 of the tamper-evident strip 2805 and force them to engage with the flange 20 of the container neck 2. This creates an arrangement similar to a conventional tamper-evident strip, wherein the hooks 2857 engage the flange 20 so that subsequent removal of the closure system 2801 from the container neck 2 breaks the bridges 2841 and separates the tamper-evident strip 2805 from the rest of the closure system 2801.

[0641] Turning now to Figures 78 and 79, a closing system 2901 is shown, according to another example that is similar to the combination of closing system 2801 and connecting ring 2823 of Figures 76 and 77, the similar features being depicted with similar references incremented by 100 respectively, and will therefore not be described further. This closure system 2901 differs from the closure system 2801 of Figures 78 and 79 in that it includes an integral connecting ring 2923, instead of the separate connecting ring 2823. The connecting ring 2923 is connected to the tamper-evident strip 2905 by a membrane 2923a, and the tamper-evident strip 2905 has a profiled outer surface 2805a that is shaped to cooperate with a cam surface 2923a of the connecting ring 2923.

[0642] As the closure system 2901 is installed on the container neck 2, the connecting ring 2923 contacts the support protrusion 21, and the continuous downward movement of the closure system 2901 forces the cam surface 2923a of the connecting ring 2923 against the profiled outer surface 2805a of the tamper-evident strip 2905. As can be seen from Figures 78 and 79, the cam surface 2923a of the connecting ring 2923 causes an inward deformation of the lower portion of the tamper-evident strip 2905, thus contracting a relatively hollow, annular inner projection 2957. This inward deformation creates an inner rim 2952 that engages with the flange 20 so that subsequent removal of the closure system 2901 from the container neck 2 Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 187 / 290 146 / 152 break the bridges 2941 and separate the tamper-evident strip 2905 from the rest of the locking system 2801.

[0643] Figure 80 illustrates a closure system conditioning system 3008 similar to the closure system conditioning system 1308 of Figure 66, with similar features depicted by similar references incremented by 1700. The closure system conditioning system 3008 differs from that of Figure 66 in that the beam shaping optical device 3080b spreads the laser beam 3083 emitted from the source 3080a vertically without altering its horizontal width, and the polygonal mirror 1380c is replaced by a freeform mirror 3080c. As an example, and as shown in Figure 80, the laser assembly 3080 can be used to irradiate a series of closure systems 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 in a container 9 as they move along the transport direction Di.

[0644] In use, source 3080a emits a laser beam 3083 through the beam shaping optical device 3080b, which is then reflected by the freeform mirror 3080c towards the tamper-evident strips 5 of the closure systems 1 in the containers 9 that move along the conveyor 3084. The freeform mirror 3080c is, in this example, configured to alter the initial horizontal intensity distribution 3090 of the laser beam 3083 emitted from source 3080a. This initial horizontal intensity distribution 3090 lies along a horizontal plane, i.e., along the transport direction Di, as illustrated in Figure 80. After the laser beam 3083 is reflected by the free-form mirror 3080c, the resulting laser beam 3083b has a horizontal irradiation intensity distribution 3091 that is different from the initial horizontal intensity distribution 3090.

[0645] More specifically, the initial horizontal intensity distribution 3090 has a standard normal distribution, with a central peak. The horizontal irradiance intensity distribution 3091 has a peak 3091a that is shifted towards Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pages 188 / 290 147 / 152 to the upstream end of conveyor 3084, so that the laser beam 3083b irradiates the tamper-evident strips 5 of the closure systems 1 in the containers 9 towards the upstream end of conveyor 3084 with a higher intensity than those towards a downstream end of the same. However, it is considered that the free-form mirror 3080c can be shaped to provide a different vertical and / or horizontal intensity distribution to suit the required intensity distribution profile.

[0646] The freeform mirror 3080c can be tiltable to change the direction of the laser beam 3083b irradiating the closure system 1. In addition, the laser assembly 3080 can include an adjustment mechanism (not shown) to dynamically change the shape of the freeform mirror 3080c. This enables user control of the vertical and / or horizontal intensity distribution to suit any particular application. Alternatively, the freeform mirror 3080c can be supplied as a rigid mirror, which is pre-shaped to provide the desired vertical and / or horizontal intensity distribution.

[0647] Figure 81 illustrates a 3108 closure system conditioning system similar to the 3008 closure system conditioning system of Figure 80, with similar features depicted by similar references incremented by 100. The 3108 closure system conditioning system differs from that of Figure 80 in that the freeform mirror 3080c is replaced by a smooth mirror 3180d and a freeform lens 3180c. In this way, the orientation and intensity redistribution steps are separated, which may be easier in some applications.

[0648] However, the initial horizontal intensity distribution 3090 and the horizontal irradiation intensity distribution 3091 are the same as those in the closing system conditioning system 3008 of Figure 80. Therefore, the same numbering was used. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 189 / 290 148 / 152

[0649] The shape of the 3180c freeform lens can be varied according to specific requirements. This makes it possible for the vertical and / or horizontal intensity distribution to be modified to suit any particular application.

[0650] Figure 82 illustrates the vertical intensity distribution 3092a, 3092b, 3092c, 3092d, 3092e at each of five different horizontal positions (i.e., different locations along the transport direction Di) of the horizontal irradiation intensity distribution 3091. As can be seen from Figure 82, each of the vertical intensity distributions 3092a, 3092b, 3092c, 3092d, 3092e has a standard normal distribution, with a central peak. Thus, the vertical intensity distribution of the reflected laser beam 3083b is substantially equal to the initial laser beam 3083.

[0651] In fact, it is considered that it is possible to use the freeform mirror 3080c from the laser assembly 3080 of Figure 80 or the freeform lens 3180c from the laser assembly 3180 of Figure 81 which can also be modeled to alter its distribution or separate the freeform optical devices to achieve the same.

[0652] Figure 83 illustrates a 3208 closure system conditioning system similar to the 1308 closure system conditioning system of Figure 66, with similar features depicted by similar references incremented by 1900. The 3208 closure system conditioning system differs from that of Figure 66 in that it includes a 3280e scanning lens between the 3280c polygonal mirror and the closure systems 1. The 3280e scanning lens is preferably an fTheta scanning lens, but other forms of scanning lenses may be used instead of, for example, a simple flat-field scanning lens.

[0653] A person skilled in the art will recognize that the scanning lens 3280e alters the beam characteristics 3283b to provide a focal point. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pages 190 / 290 149 / 152 substantially flat. This results in more continuous resolution and intensity in the plane, along which the irradiated closure systems 1 are situated, providing more consistent irradiation characteristics across all closure systems 1.

[0654] Figure 84 illustrates a closure system conditioning system 3308 similar to the closure system conditioning system 3208 of Figure 83, with similar features depicted by similar references incremented by 100. The closure system conditioning system 3308 differs from that of Figure 83 in that the movable concave mirrors 3280d are replaced by a single stationary serrated reflector 3380d with a plurality of substantially identical triangular reflecting portions 3380f. The direction of the reflected beam rays 3383b therefore remains constant. However, as the closure systems 1 move in the Di direction, they pass between the polygonal mirror 3380c and the serrated reflector 3380d. As a result, the portion of beam 3383b reflected by any part of the serrated reflector 3380d varies as the closure systems 1 move through it.

[0655] Figure 85 schematically shows the reflection of individual rays from beam 3383b to illustrate how the closure systems 1 can be irradiated at a particular moment in time. The inventors determined that the greater part, approximately 70%, of beam 3383b irradiates the closure system 1 directly or is reflected on its back side by the serrated reflector 3380d. A person skilled in the art will recognize that this arrangement is easier to implement than the movable concave mirrors 3280d, and the loss can be considered acceptable in many cases.

[0656] Figure 86 illustrates a 3408 closing system conditioning system similar to the 3308 closing system conditioning system in Figure 84, with similar features depicted by references. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 191 / 290 150 / 152 similar increments increased by 100. The 3408 closing system conditioning system differs from that in Figure 84 in that the stationary serrated reflector 3480d includes alternative large and small triangular reflective portions 3480f, 3480g.

[0657] The inventors believe that this results in greater efficiency than the serrated reflector 3380d of the previous embodiment. As illustrated in Figure 87, the alternating depth and angles of the large and small triangular reflecting portions 3480f, 3480g reduce the multiple reflections that occur with substantially identical triangular reflecting portions 3380f.

[0658] Certainly, the triangular reflector portions 3380f, 3480f, 3480g of the serrated reflectors 3380d, 3480d do not need to be triangular in shape. They may have flanks that are curved, concave, convex, sinusoidal or of any other suitable shape.

[0659] Turning now to Figures 88 to 90, an alternative means of transport is shown, which includes a pair of rails Ri, R2 and three conveyors 3581, 3582a, 3582b. Each rail Ri, R2 is provided by a plate formed of a horizontally oriented patterned laminated metal strip to provide a horizontal support surface to support the support protrusion 21 of the container neck 2 (shown without closure systems installed thereon). Each rail Ri, R2 also has an angled entry point LI1, LI2 and an angled exit point LO1, LO2. A serrated reflector 3580d similar to that present in the closure system conditioning system 3308 of Figure 84 is shown mounted on the rails Ri, R2 to illustrate the relative position between the rails Ri, R2 and the serrated reflector 3580d.

[0660] A first conveyor 3581 provides a horizontal moving surface 3584, which is provided by a conveyor belt in this example. The vertical height of the first conveyor 3581 is adjustable to accommodate containers 9 that have different heights. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 192 / 290 151 / 152

[0661] The second and third conveyors 3582a, 3582b each include an endless conveyor belt 3585a, 3585b. The endless conveyor belts 3585a, 3585b face each other and provide opposite vertical motion surfaces, which are substantially perpendicular to the horizontal motion surface 3584 of the first conveyor 3582 and engage opposite sides of the containers 9.

[0662] The vertical and horizontal position of each of the second and third conveyors 3582a, 3582b is also adjustable. More specifically, the second and third conveyors 3582a, 3582b are mounted on their respective adjustment frames 3586a, 3586b, each of which includes a vertical height adjustment wheel Vi, V2 to adjust the vertical height of conveyor 3582a, 3582b and a horizontal height adjustment wheel Hi, H2 to adjust the horizontal height of conveyor 3582a, 3582b.

[0663] In this example, the second and third conveyors 3582a, 3582b are positioned at different heights so as to engage opposite sides of the container body 9 at different axial locations. The inventors determined that this provides more reliable positioning of the locking systems (not shown) during simultaneous rotation and transport of the containers 9.

[0664] As containers 9 are transported along conveyors 3581, 3582a, 3582b, their bottlenecks 2 are directed between rails R1, R2, with support protrusions 21 engaging angled entry points LI1, LI2. Continuous transport of containers 9 causes them to be lifted from the first conveyor 3581 a distance G as they are irradiated by the laser beam (not shown). This reduces the deviation of the closing systems (not shown), which could otherwise occur due to rotation of the base of containers 9 relative to the horizontal moving surface 3584.

[0665] It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that there are various variations in the construction and / or use of the examples above. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 193 / 290 The aforementioned 152 / 152 are considered without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the polygonal mirror 1282, 1380c, 1480d', 3080d, 3180d, 3280d, 3380d, 3480d may comprise a non-polygonal shape or any shape configured to provide the necessary optical effect. Similarly, the beam shaping optical device 1380b, 1480b, 3080b, 3180b, 3280b may comprise one or more lenses, or may comprise a telescopic device or any other device configured to create the desired beam characteristics. Furthermore, it will be recognized by persons skilled in the art that any combinations of the aforementioned features and / or those shown in the accompanying drawings provide clear advantages over the prior art and are therefore within the scope of the invention described in the present invention.

Claims

1. Method for installing a thermoplastic closure system on a container neck CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises placing the closure system on the container neck and reshaping part of the closure system or container neck to cause the closure system to engage with the container neck.

2. Method according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises applying heat to reshape the closing system part or neck of a container.

3. Method according to claim 2, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises applying heat to reshape the closure system part or container neck to movably engage the closure system part to the container neck.

4. Method, according to claim 2 or 3, CHARACTERIZED in that part of the closure system is reshaped to cause one or more tamper-evident features thereof to engage with the neck of the container.

5. Method, according to claim 4, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises applying heat over at least part of a circumference of the closure system to movably engage one or more tamper-evident features on at least part of the circumference of the container neck.

6. Method, according to claim 4 or 5, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more tamper-evident features is or are frangibly connected to the closure system so as to remain in the container neck upon removal of the closure system from the container neck.

7. Method, according to any one of claims 4 to 6, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more infringement evidence features Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 195 / 290 2 / 57 comprise an infringement evidence strip.

8. Method according to claim 7, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises applying heat to one or more areas of the tamper-evident strip on its circumference to movably engage the neck of a container.

9. Method according to claim 8, CHARACTERIZED in that the application of heat to one or more areas of the tamper-evident strip secures or couples the tamper-evident strip to the container neck without impeding the articulation of a tie rod connecting the tamper-evident strip to a cylindrical skirt that relies on an upper wall of the closure system upon removal of the closure system from the container neck.

10. Method according to claim 8 or 9, CHARACTERIZED in that the application of heat to one or more areas of the tamper-evident strip causes one or more areas of the tamper-evident strip to deform, shrink or curl inward and create a rim to engage a flange on the neck of a container.

11. Method, according to claim 10, CHARACTERIZED in that the rim enables the closing system to rotate relative to the container neck while axially engaging the flange, thereby inhibiting the removal of the closing system from the container neck.

12. Method, according to any one of claims 8 to 11, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more tabs hinged thereto and the application of heat to one or more areas of the tamper-evident strip comprises applying heat to one or more tabs.

13. Method, according to any one of claims 8 to 11, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more projections or cams thereon that release the container neck when the closure system is placed on it, and the application of heat to one or more areas of the tamper-evident strip causes one or more areas of the tamper-evident strip to deform or shrink inward to cause the projections or cams to align and / or engage with the container neck.

14. A method according to any one of claims 4 to 13, characterized in that at least part of one or more tamper-evident features remains in the closure system upon removal of the closure system from the container neck.

15. A method according to any one of claims 2 to 14, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises rotating the closure system and / or the container as heat is applied to reshape the closure system portion or container neck, thereby applying heat over at least part of the circumference of the closure system to engage the closure system to the container neck over at least part of the circumference of the container neck.

16. A method according to any one of claims 2 to 15, characterized in that heat is applied using a plurality of heat sources distributed over the closure system to reshape the closure system portion or container neck, thereby applying heat over at least part of the circumference of the closure system to engage the closure system to the container neck over at least part of the circumference of the container neck.

17. A method, according to any one of claims 2 to 16, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises irradiating the closing system or neck of a container with electromagnetic energy.

18. Method, according to claim 17, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises modifying one or more characteristics of electromagnetic energy emitted by an electromagnetic energy source and irradiating the part of the system of Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, page 197 / 290 4 / 57 closing or neck of a container with the modified electromagnetic energy.

19. Method, according to claim 18, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises modifying the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy emitted by a source and irradiating the part of the closure system or neck of the container with electromagnetic energy that has a modified intensity distribution.

20. Method according to claim 19, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises modifying the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy along a transport direction, along which the closure system or bottleneck of the container is transported.

21. Method, according to claim 19 or 20, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises modifying the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy using a free-form mirror or lens.

22. A method, according to any one of claims 18 to 20, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises modifying the electromagnetic energy emitted by the electromagnetic energy source using a rotating polygonal mirror to provide a substantially flat electromagnetic beam.

23. Method according to claim 22, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises directing the substantially flat electromagnetic beam through a scanning lens before irradiating the closure system.

24. A method, according to any one of claims 18 to 23, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises directing the electromagnetic energy source into a closure system that passes between the electromagnetic energy source and a mirror.

25. Method according to claim 24, CHARACTERIZED in that the mirror is concave and moves with a locking system along or in a transport direction to reflect, thereby, a portion of an electromagnetic energy emitted from the electromagnetic energy source towards the locking system.

26. Method according to claim 24, CHARACTERIZED in that the mirror is stationary with respect to the electromagnetic energy source and comprises a series of alternating peaks and troughs.

27. Method according to claim 26, CHARACTERIZED in that the peaks and troughs vary in amplitude.

28. Method according to claim 26 or 27, CHARACTERIZED in that each peak comprises a pair of opposing flanks that are substantially smooth or flat.

29. A method, according to any one of claims 17 to 28, CHARACTERIZED in that the irradiation of the closing system or neck of the container with electromagnetic energy comprises directing a laser at it.

30. A method, according to any one of claims 17 to 29, CHARACTERIZED in that the irradiation of the closing system or neck of the container with electromagnetic energy comprises directing infrared or microwave energy onto it.

31. A method, according to any one of claims 17 to 30, CHARACTERIZED in that the irradiation of the closing system or neck of a container with electromagnetic energy comprises directing ultrasound energy onto it.

32. Method, according to any one of claims 2 to 16, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises positioning the part of the closure system or container neck to be reshaped against or adjacent to a heating element to apply heat to reshape the part of the closure system or container neck and to cause the closure system to engage with the container neck.

33. Method according to claim 32, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises rotating a tamper-evident strip of the locking system as heat is applied to it by the heating element.

34. Method according to claim 33, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises laminating the tamper-evident strip along the heating element.

35. Method, according to any one of claims 32 to 34, CHARACTERIZED in that the heating element comprises a rolling mill, a wire or a strip.

36. A method, according to any one of claims 2 to 16, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises directing a blade of heated air onto the closure system part or neck of the container to reshape the closure system part or neck of the container to cause the closure system to engage with the neck of the container.

37. A method, according to any one of claims 2 to 36, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises applying heat to a first side of the closing system part or neck of a container, without applying heat to a second side of the same, opposite to the first side.

38. Method according to claim 37, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises cooling the second side of the part before, after or as heat is applied to the first side.

39. Method, according to claim 37 or 38, CHARACTERIZED in that the application of heat to the first side comprises irradiating an outer surface with a laser so as to create a predetermined temperature differential between the outer surface and an inner surface on the second side.

40. Method, according to any of claims 2 to 39, Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 200 / 290 7 / 57 CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises generating a visual indicator when the closing system or neck of a container is reshaped, which is indicative of the reshaping.

41. Method according to claim 40, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises crystallizing the reshaped part of the closure system or neck of a container by applying heat to provide a visual indicator.

42. A method according to claim 40 or 41, characterized in that it comprises changing a color or opacity of the remodeled part of the closure system or neck of a container to provide a visual indicator.

43. Method according to claim 42, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises providing the closure system or neck of a container, or the part of the closure system or neck of a container to be reshaped, with an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period.

44. A method according to any one of claims 2 to 43, characterized in that the part of the closing system or neck of the container that is reshaped comprises a reheating agent to increase its heat absorption.

45. A method, according to any one of claims 2 to 44, CHARACTERIZED in that the part of the closure system or container neck that is reshaped comprises a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

46. ​​A method, according to any of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system comprises polyethylene terephthalate material.

47. Method according to claim 46, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system comprises a multimodal polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material formed from a first PET having a first molecular weight and a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

48. Method according to claim 46 or 47, CHARACTERIZED in that the polyethylene terephthalate comprises an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dl / g.

49. Method according to claim 46 or 47, CHARACTERIZED in that the polyethylene terephthalate comprises an intrinsic viscosity between 0.4 dl / g and 0.8 dl / g.

50. Method according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises mechanically deforming part of the closure system or neck of a container to cause one or more tamper-evident features to engage with the neck of the container.

51. A method, according to any of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises reshaping part of the closing system in conjunction with an anti-rotation or locking feature of the closing system bottleneck.

52. A method, according to any of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises reshaping part of the closure system to provide a gripping feature on an internal surface of the closure system to cooperate with a gripping feature of the container neck.

53. Method according to claim 52, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises applying heat to a cylindrical skirt that relies on an upper wall of the closure system to reshape a selected portion of the cylindrical skirt to conform to a gripping feature of the container neck.

54. Method, according to claim 53, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises applying heat to the cylindrical skirt so that the plastically reshaped part of the closure system, at least partially, crystallizes.

55. A method, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the closure system is placed on the neck of a container so that the gripping features thereof do not engage with the neck of the container and reshapes the entire closure system so that the gripping features of the closure system engage gripping features of the neck of the container after or as the closure system is reshaped.

56. A method, according to any of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED in that part of the container closure system or neck is reshaped after the container is capped and / or at the same time that the container is labeled, coded, laser marked or cartoned.

57. A method, according to any of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises inducing internal stress in the part of the closure system that must be reshaped before it is placed in the container.

58. Method according to claim 57, CHARACTERIZED in that the induction of internal stress in the closure system part is provided by stretching or expanding the same during or after the molding process.

59. Method according to claim 57 or 58, CHARACTERIZED in that the induction of internal stress in the closure system part is provided by subjecting an interior surface thereof to a cooling temperature that is substantially different from a cooling temperature to which an exterior surface thereof is subjected.

60. Method, according to any of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED in that the part of the closing system or bottleneck of Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, page 203 / 290 10 / 57 container that is reshaped comprises one or more ribs.

61. A method, according to any of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises reshaping part of an integral annular wall of a container neck flange to engage with one or more tamper-evident features of the closure system.

62. A method, according to any of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises punching, cutting slits, or cutting a membrane that joins the tamper-evident feature to the closure system while the closure system is installed on the neck of a container, to thereby provide a frangible connection or a frangible link between them.

63. Thermoplastic closure system CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises a coupling portion that is adapted to be reshaped in a post-molding operation.

64. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 63, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to it.

65. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 64, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped for movable engagement with a container neck.

66. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 64 or 65, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion comprises one or more tamper-evident features.

67. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 66, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more tamper-evident features are configured to engage a container neck over at least part of the circumference of the container neck.

68. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 66 Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 204 / 290 11 / 57 or 67, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more tamper-evident features is or are frangibly connected to the closure system so as to remain in a container neck upon removal of the closure system from the container neck.

69. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 66 to 68, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more tamper-evident features comprise a tamper-evident strip or sleeve.

70. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 69, wherein the closure system is CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a tie rod connecting the tamper-evident strip to a cylindrical skirt that depends on an upper wall of the closure system, and wherein the tamper-evident strip is adapted to be reshaped to attach or couple the tamper-evident strip to the container neck without hindering the articulation of the tie rod upon removal of the closure system from the container neck.

71. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 69 or 70, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to one or more areas thereof to cause one or more areas to deform, shrink or curl inward and create a rim to engage a flange on a container neck.

72. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 69 to 71, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more tabs hinged thereto.

73. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 69 to 72, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more projections or cams thereon configured to release a container neck when the closure system is placed on the same, and one or more areas of the tamper-evident strip is or are configured to deform or shrink inward when heat is applied thereto to cause the projections or cams to align with and / or engage the container neck.

74. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 64 to 73, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating it with electromagnetic energy.

75. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 74, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating it with a laser.

76. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 74, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating it with infrared or microwave energy.

77. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 74, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating it with ultrasound energy.

78. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 64 to 73, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by exposing it to a heated laminator, wire or strip.

79. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 64 to 73, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by exposing it to a heated air blade.

80. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 64 to 73, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to a first side of the engagement portion, without applying heat to a second side of the engagement portion, opposite to the first side.

81. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any of the claims 64 to 73, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the engagement portion is configured to generate a visual indicator when it is reshaped, which is indicative of the reshaping.

82. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 81, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is configured to crystallize upon application of heat to provide a visual indicator.

83. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 81 or 82, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is configured to change color or opacity by the application of heat to provide a visual indicator.

84. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 83, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion comprises an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period.

85. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 64 to 84, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion comprises a reheating agent to increase its heat absorption.

86. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 64 to 85, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion comprises a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

87. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 63 to 86, wherein the closure system is CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises polyethylene terephthalate material.

88. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 87, wherein the closure system is CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a multimodal polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material formed from a first PET having a first molecular weight and a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

89. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 87 or 88, CHARACTERIZED in that the polyethylene terephthalate comprises an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.7 dl / g.

90. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 87 or 88, CHARACTERIZED in that the polyethylene terephthalate comprises an intrinsic viscosity between 0.3 dl / g and 0.7 dl / g.

91. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 63, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by mechanical deformation.

92. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 63 to 91, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is configured to be reshaped in conjugate contact with an anti-rotation or locking feature of a closure system neck.

93. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 63 to 91, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is configured to be reshaped to provide a gripping feature on an inner surface of the closure system to cooperate with a gripping feature of a container neck.

94. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 93, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion comprises a selected portion of a cylindrical skirt that depends on an upper wall of the closure system, which is configured to be reshaped by applying heat to it so that it conforms to a gripping feature of the container neck.

95. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 63 to 94, wherein the closure system is CHARACTERIZED Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 208 / 290 15 / 57 by the fact that it is configured to be placed on a container neck so that the gripping features of the same do not engage with the container neck, and the entire closure system is configured to be reshaped so that the gripping features of the closure system engage gripping features of the container neck after or as the closure system is reshaped.

96. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 63 to 95, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion comprises an internal stress.

97. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 63 to 96, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion comprises one or more ribs.

98. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 63 to 97, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises an upper wall, a cylindrical skirt that depends on the upper wall and an annular tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident strip is configured to prevent the container from engaging when the closure system is installed on a container neck opening and to be reshaped, in use, with the closure system installed on the container, to thus engage the tamper-evident strip to the container.

99. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 98, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a substantially cylindrical inner surface devoid of engagement features to enable a container neck flange to be received therein in a free manner.

100. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 98 or 99, CHARACTERIZED in that at least part of the connection between the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt is frangible. Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 209 / 290 16 / 57 101. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 98 or 99, CHARACTERIZED in that at least part of the tamper-evident strip is connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane.

102. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 101, CHARACTERIZED in that the membrane has a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt.

103. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 101 or 102, CHARACTERIZED in that the membrane comprises one or more ribs having a radial wall thickness that is greater than that of the rest of the membrane.

104. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 98 to 103, CHARACTERIZED in that at least part of the tamper-evident strip has a radial wall thickness that is a value between 0.6 mm or less, 0.5 mm or less, 0.4 mm or less, or even 0.3 mm or less, wherein, for example, the tamper-evident strip comprises a film.

105. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 98 to 104, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a first annular portion connected to the cylindrical skirt of the closure system and a second annular portion that depends on the first annular portion, wherein the second annular portion has a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the first annular portion.

106. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 98 to 105, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a tie rod connecting the tamper-evident strip to the cylindrical skirt.

107. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 98 to 106, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises one or more tabs articulated to the tamper-evident strip and configured to deform upon application of heat thereto.

108. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 98 to 107, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a non-frangible connection between the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt.

109. Thermoplastic closure system, according to claim 108, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a frangible line through its height, which is close to the non-frangible connection, such that the tamper-evident strip becomes a strip connected to the closure system by the non-frangible connection upon first removal, in use, of the closure system from a container neck.

110. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 98 to 109, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more ribs.

111. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 98 to 110, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

112. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 98 to 111, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip is larger than the cylindrical skirt and is connected to the cylindrical skirt by a frangible connection or membrane extending radially or conically.

113. Thermoplastic closure system, according to any one of claims 98 to 112, CHARACTERIZED in that an inner surface of the cylindrical skirt is substantially cylindrical and devoid of a gripping feature to enable the closure system to be received into the neck of a container in a free manner.

114. Mold stack CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises a molding configuration that describes a cavity for molding a closure system that has an engagement portion that is adapted to be reshaped in a post-molding operation.

115. A mold stack, according to claim 114, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to it.

116. A mold stack, according to claim 115, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped for movable engagement with a container neck.

117. A mold stack, according to claim 115 or 116, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion comprises one or more tamper-evident features.

118. A mold stack, according to claim 117, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more tamper-evident features are configured to engage a container neck over at least part of the circumference of the container neck.

119. A mold stack, according to claim 117 or 118, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more tamper-evident features is or are frangibly connected to the closure system so as to remain in a container neck upon removal of the closure system from the container neck.

120. A stack of molds, according to any one of claims 117 to 119, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more tamper-evident features comprise a tamper-evident strip or sleeve.

121. Mold stack, according to claim 120, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system comprises a tie rod connecting the tamper-evident strip to a cylindrical skirt that depends on an upper wall of the closure system, and wherein the tamper-evident strip is adapted to be reshaped to attach or couple the tamper-evident strip to the container neck without impeding the articulation of the tie rod upon removal of the closure system from the container neck.

122. A mold stack, according to claim 120 or 121, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to one or more areas thereof to cause one or more areas to deform, shrink or curl inward and create a rim to engage a flange on a container neck.

123. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 120 to 122, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more tabs hinged thereto.

124. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 120 to 123, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more projections or cams thereon configured to release a container neck when the closure system is placed on it, and one or more areas of the tamper-evident strip is or are configured to deform or shrink inward when heat is applied thereto to cause the projections or cams to align with and / or engage the container neck.

125. A mold pile, according to any one of claims 115 to 124, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating it with electromagnetic energy.

126. A mold stack, according to claim 125, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating it with a laser.

127. A mold stack, according to claim 125, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating it with infrared or microwave energy. Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, page 213 / 290 20 / 57 128. A mold stack, according to claim 125, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating it with ultrasound energy.

129. A die stack, according to any one of claims 115 to 124, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by exposing it to a heated rolling mill, wire, or strip.

130. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 115 to 124, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by exposing it to a heated air blade.

131. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 115 to 124, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to a first side of the engagement portion, without applying heat to a second side of the engagement portion, opposite the first side.

132. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 115 to 124, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is configured to generate a visual indicator when it is reshaped, which is indicative of the reshaping.

133. A mold stack, according to claim 132, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is configured to crystallize by the application of heat to provide a visual indicator.

134. A mold stack, according to claim 132 or 133, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is configured to change color or opacity by the application of heat to provide a visual indicator.

135. A mold pile, according to claim 134, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion comprises an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period. Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 214 / 290 21 / 57 136. A mold pile, according to any one of claims 115 to 135, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion comprises a reheating agent to increase its heat absorption.

137. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 115 to 136, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion comprises a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

138. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 114 to 137, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system comprises polyethylene terephthalate material.

139. A mold stack, according to claim 138, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system comprises a multimodal polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material formed from a first PET having a first molecular weight and a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

140. A mold pile, according to claim 138 or 139, CHARACTERIZED in that the polyethylene terephthalate comprises an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.7 dl / g.

141. A mold pile, according to claim 138 or 139, CHARACTERIZED in that the polyethylene terephthalate comprises an intrinsic viscosity between 0.3 dl / g and 0.7 dl / g.

142. A mold stack, according to claim 114, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is adapted to be reshaped by mechanical deformation.

143. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 114 to 142, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is configured to be reshaped in conjugate contact with an anti-rotation or locking feature of a closing system bottleneck. Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 215 / 290 22 / 57 144. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 114 to 142, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is configured to be reshaped to provide a gripping feature on an inner surface of the closure system to cooperate with a gripping feature of a container neck.

145. A mold stack, according to claim 144, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion comprises a selected portion of a cylindrical skirt that depends on an upper wall of the closure system, which is configured to be reshaped by applying heat to it so that it conforms to a gripping feature of the container neck.

146. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 114 to 145, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system is configured to be placed on a container neck so that the gripping features thereof do not engage with the container neck, and the entire closure system is configured to be reshaped so that the gripping features of the closure system engage gripping features of the container neck after or as the closure system is reshaped.

147. Mold stack, according to any one of claims 114 to 146, wherein the mold stack is CHARACTERIZED in that it is configured to stretch or expand the tamper-evident strip during or after the molding process.

148. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 114 to 147, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion comprises one or more ribs.

149. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 114 to 148, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises an upper wall, a cylindrical skirt that depends on the upper wall, and an annular tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident strip is configured to prevent the container from engaging when the closure system is installed on a container neck opening and to be reshaped, in use, with the closure system installed on the container, so as to engage the tamper-evident strip to the container.

150. A mold stack, according to claim 149, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a substantially cylindrical inner surface devoid of engagement features to enable a container neck flange to be received thereon in a free manner.

151. A mold stack, according to claim 149 or 150, CHARACTERIZED in that at least part of the connection between the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt is frangible.

152. A mold stack, according to claim 149 or 150, CHARACTERIZED in that at least part of the tamper-evident strip is connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane.

153. A mold stack, according to claim 152, CHARACTERIZED in that the membrane has a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt.

154. A stack of molds, according to claim 152 or 153, CHARACTERIZED in that the membrane comprises one or more ribs having a radial wall thickness that is greater than that of the rest of the membrane.

155. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 149 to 154, CHARACTERIZED in that at least part of the tamper-evident strip has a radial wall thickness that is a value between 0.6 mm or less, 0.5 mm or less, 0.4 mm or less, or even 0.3 mm or less, wherein, for example, the tamper-evident strip comprises a film.

156. Mold stack, according to any of claims 149 to Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 217 / 290 24 / 57 155, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a first annular portion connected to the cylindrical skirt of the closure system and a second annular portion that depends on the first annular portion, wherein the second annular portion has a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the first annular portion.

157. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 149 to 156, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a tie rod connecting the tamper-evident strip to the cylindrical skirt.

158. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 149 to 157, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises one or more tabs hinged to the tamper-evident strip and configured to deform upon application of heat thereto.

159. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 149 to 158, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a non-frangible connection between the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt.

160. A mold stack, according to claim 159, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a frangible line through its height, which is close to the non-frangible connection, such that the tamper-evident strip becomes a strip connected to the closure system by the non-frangible connection upon first removal, in use, of the closure system from a container neck.

161. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 149 to 160, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more ribs.

162. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 149 to 161, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption. Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 218 / 290 25 / 57 163. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 149 to 162, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip is larger than the cylindrical skirt and is connected to the cylindrical skirt by a frangible connection or membrane extending radially or conically.

164. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 149 to 163, CHARACTERIZED in that an inner surface of the cylindrical skirt is substantially cylindrical and devoid of a gripping feature to enable the closing system to be received into the neck of the container in a free manner.

165. Mold stack, according to any one of claims 149 to 164, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises an extractor sleeve that is movable, in use, to come into contact with the tamper-evident strip of a molded closure system, wherein the extractor sleeve has a first surface and a second surface for simultaneously coming into contact with a side and lower side surface of the tamper-evident strip, respectively, during extraction from the molded closure system.

166. A mold stack, according to claim 165, CHARACTERIZED in that the ejector sleeve comprises a pocket defining the first and second surfaces, the pocket having a depth configured such that an upper surface of the ejector sleeve, adjacent to the pocket, contacts part of a margin of the cylindrical skirt during ejection to transfer an ejection force to it.

167. A mold stack, according to any one of claims 149 to 166, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises an insert or cavity assembly having a molding surface that describes at least part of an outer surface of each of the cylindrical skirt and the tamper-evident strip. Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 219 / 290 26 / 57 168. Mold CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a plurality of mold stacks, as defined in any one of claims 114 to 167.

169. Molding system CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises the mold, as defined in claim 168.

170. System for engaging a closure system to a container neck, wherein the system is CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises one or more reshaping elements, wherein the system is operable to cause one or more reshaping elements to reshape part of the closure system or container neck to cause the closure system to engage with the container neck.

171. System according to claim 170, wherein the system is characterized in that it is operable to apply heat to reshape the closing part of the system or the neck of a container.

172. System according to claim 170, wherein the system is CHARACTERIZED in that it is operable to apply heat to reshape the closing system portion or container neck to movably engage the closing system to the container neck.

173. System according to claim 171, wherein the system is CHARACTERIZED in that it is operable to apply heat over at least part of a circumference of the closure system to movably engage one or more tamper-evident features of the closure system to the container neck over at least part of the circumference of the container neck.

174. System, according to any one of claims 171 to 173, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a transport assembly for transporting the container through the system.

175. System according to claim 174, CHARACTERIZED in that the transport assembly is operable to rotate the closing system and / or the container as one or more tamper-evident features are reshaped by the reshaping element.

176. System, according to any one of claims 171 to 175, CHARACTERIZED in that the one or more reshaping elements comprise a plurality of reshaping elements distributed over the closure system, which is operable to reshape the one or more violation evidence features over at least part of the circumference of the closure system.

177. System according to any one of claims 170 to 176, CHARACTERIZED in that at least one of the reshaping elements comprises an electromagnetic energy source.

178. System according to claim 177, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises one or more optical devices for modifying one or more characteristics of electromagnetic energy emitted by the electromagnetic energy source.

179. System according to claim 178, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more optical devices is or are configured to modify the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy emitted by the electromagnetic energy source.

180. System according to claim 179, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more optical devices is or are configured to modify an intensity distribution along a transport direction, along which the closure system or container neck is transported.

181. System, according to claim 179 or 180, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more optical devices comprise a mirror or a free-form lens for modifying the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy.

182. System, according to any one of claims 178 to 181, Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 221 / 290 28 / 57 CHARACTERIZED in that at least one of the optical devices comprises a rotating polygonal mirror configured to provide a substantially flat electromagnetic beam.

183. System according to claim 182, CHARACTERIZED in that at least one of the optical devices comprises a scanning lens, and the system is configured to direct, in use, the substantially flat electromagnetic beam through the scanning lens before irradiating the closing system.

184. System according to any one of claims 178 to 183, CHARACTERIZED in that at least one of the optical devices comprises a mirror, and the system is configured to direct the electromagnetic energy source into a closure system that passes between the electromagnetic energy source and the mirror.

185. System according to claim 184, CHARACTERIZED in that the mirror is concave and is configured to move, in use, with a locking system on or on a conveyor to thereby reflect a portion of an electromagnetic beam emitted from the electromagnetic energy source towards the locking system.

186. System according to claim 184, CHARACTERIZED in that the mirror is stationary with respect to the electromagnetic energy source and comprises a series of alternating peaks and troughs.

187. System according to claim 186, CHARACTERIZED in that the peaks and troughs vary in amplitude.

188. System according to claim 186 or 187, CHARACTERIZED in that each peak comprises a pair of opposing flanks that are substantially smooth or flat.

189. System, according to any one of claims 177 to 188, Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 222 / 290 29 / 57 CHARACTERIZED in that at least one of the reshaping elements comprises a laser.

190. System according to any one of claims 177 to 189, CHARACTERIZED in that at least one of the remodeling elements comprises an infrared or microwave emitter.

191. System, according to any one of claims 177 to 190, CHARACTERIZED in that at least one of the reshaping elements comprises an ultrasound energy source or ultrasonic energy.

192. System according to any one of claims 170 to 191, CHARACTERIZED in that at least one of the reshaping elements comprises a laminator, a strip or a wire.

193. System according to claim 192, wherein the system is CHARACTERIZED in that it is configured to heat the rolling mill, strip or wire.

194. System according to any one of claims 170 to 193, CHARACTERIZED in that at least one of the reshaping elements comprises a fluid source.

195. System according to claim 194, CHARACTERIZED in that the fluid source comprises a blade of air.

196. System according to claim 195, wherein the system is CHARACTERIZED in that it is configured to heat airflow, in use, through the air blade.

197. System, according to any one of claims 170 to 196, CHARACTERIZED in that the reshaping elements comprise two or more reshaping elements, and one of the reshaping elements is configured to reshape an additional part of the closure system to provide a gripping feature on an internal surface of the closure system to cooperate with a bottleneck gripping feature.

198. System, according to any one of claims 170 to 197, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a set of perforations, slitting or cutting devices for perforating, slitting or cutting a membrane that joins the tamper-evident feature to the locking system, thereby providing a frangible connection between them.

199. Molding system CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises the system as defined in any one of claims 170 to 198.

200. Packaging system CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises the system, as defined in any one of claims 170 to 198, and one or more of a visual inspection station, a capping station, a labeling station, a coding station, a laser marking station and / or a cartoning station.

201. Packaging CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises a thermoplastic closure system on a container neck, the closure system comprising an engagement feature formed by reshaping part of the closure system so that it engages with the container neck.

202. Packaging according to claim 201, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling feature comprises one or more tamper-evident features.

203. Packaging according to claim 202, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more tamper-evident features are configured to engage a container neck over at least part of the circumference of the container neck.

204. Packaging, according to claim 202 or 203, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more tamper-evident features is or are frangibly connected to the closure system so that Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 224 / 290 31 / 57 remains in a container neck upon removal of the closure system from the container neck.

205. Packaging according to any one of claims 202 to 204, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more tamper-evident features comprise a tamper-evident strip or sleeve.

206. Packaging according to claim 205, CHARACTERIZED in that a free end of the tamper-evident strip is deformed inward to create a rim for engaging a flange on the neck of a container.

207. Packaging, according to claim 206, CHARACTERIZED in that the rim enables the closure system to rotate relative to the container neck while axially engaging the flange, thereby preventing its removal from the container neck.

208. Packaging, according to any one of claims 205 to 207, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system comprises a tie rod connecting the tamper-evident strip to a cylindrical skirt that depends on an upper wall of the closure system, and wherein the tamper-evident strip is adapted to be reshaped to attach or couple the tamper-evident strip to the container neck without hindering the articulation of the tie rod upon removal of the closure system from the container neck.

209. Packaging, according to any one of claims 205 to 208, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more tabs hinged thereto.

210. Packaging, according to any one of claims 201 to 209, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling feature comprises a visual indicator showing reshaping.

211. Packaging according to claim 210, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement feature is crystallized to provide a visual indicator. Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 225 / 290 32 / 57 212. Packaging according to claim 210, CHARACTERIZED in that the visual indicator comprises a color or opacity, which is indicative of the application of heat.

213. Packaging according to claim 212, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling feature comprises an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period.

214. Packaging according to claim 212, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling feature comprises a reheating agent to increase its heat absorption.

215. Packaging according to claim 212, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling feature comprises a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

216. Packaging according to claim 212, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system comprises polyethylene terephthalate material.

217. Packaging according to claim 216, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system comprises a multimodal polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material formed from a first PET having a first molecular weight and a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

218. Packaging, according to claim 216 or 217, CHARACTERIZED in that the polyethylene terephthalate comprises an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.7 dl / g.

219. Packaging, according to claim 216 or 217, CHARACTERIZED in that the polyethylene terephthalate comprises an intrinsic viscosity between 0.3 dl / g and 0.7 dl / g.

220. Packaging, according to any of claims 201 to 219, Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 226 / 290 33 / 57 CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement feature comprises a gripping feature on an inner surface of the closure system to cooperate with a gripping feature of a container neck.

221. Packaging, according to any one of claims 201 to 220, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling feature comprises one or more ribs.

222. Packaging, according to any one of claims 201 to 221, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises an upper wall, a cylindrical skirt depending on the upper wall and an annular tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein at least part of the connection between the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt is frangible.

223. Packaging according to claim 222, CHARACTERIZED in that at least part of the tamper-evident strip is connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane.

224. Packaging according to claim 223, CHARACTERIZED in that the membrane has a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt.

225. Packaging, according to claim 223 or 224, CHARACTERIZED in that the membrane comprises one or more ribs having a radial wall thickness that is greater than that of the rest of the membrane.

226. Packaging, according to any one of claims 222 to 225, CHARACTERIZED in that at least part of the tamper-evident strip has a radial wall thickness that is a value between 0.6 mm or less, 0.5 mm or less, 0.4 mm or less, or even 0.3 mm or less, wherein, for example, the tamper-evident strip comprises a film.

227. Packaging, according to any one of claims 222 to 226, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, page 227 / 290 34 / 57 first annular portion connected to the cylindrical skirt of the closure system and a second annular portion that depends on the first annular portion, wherein the second annular portion has a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the first annular portion.

228. Packaging, according to any one of claims 222 to 227, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a strap connecting the tamper-evident strip to the cylindrical skirt.

229. Packaging, according to any one of claims 222 to 228, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises one or more flaps hinged to the tamper-evident strip.

230. Packaging, according to any one of claims 222 to 229, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a non-frangible connection between the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt.

231. Packaging according to claim 230, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a frangible line through its height, which is close to the non-frangible connection, such that the tamper-evident strip becomes a strip connected to the closure system by the non-frangible connection upon first removal, in use, of the closure system from a container neck.

232. Packaging, according to any one of claims 222 to 231, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more ribs.

233. Packaging, according to any one of claims 222 to 232, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

234. Kit of parts for assembly in a package, wherein the kit is CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises a container and a closure system molded to seal a neck opening of the container, wherein the closure system comprises an engagement portion configured to prevent the container from engaging when the closure system is installed in the neck opening of the container and to be reshaped, in use, with the closure system installed in the container, to thus engage the engagement portion to the container.

235. Parts kit according to claim 234, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to it.

236. Kit of parts, according to claim 235, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion is adapted to be reshaped for movable coupling to a container neck.

237. Parts kit according to claim 235 or 236, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion comprises one or more tamper-evident features.

238. Kit of parts according to claim 237, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more tamper-evident features are configured to engage a container neck over at least part of the circumference of the container neck.

239. Kit of parts, according to claim 237 or 238, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more tamper-evident features is or are frangibly connected to the closure system so as to remain in a container neck upon removal of the closure system from the container neck.

240. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 237 to 239, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more tamper-evident features comprise a tamper-evident strip or sleeve. Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 229 / 290 36 / 57 241. Kit of parts, according to claim 240, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system comprises a tie rod connecting the tamper-evident strip to a cylindrical skirt that depends on an upper wall of the closure system, and wherein the tamper-evident strip is adapted to be reshaped to attach or couple the tamper-evident strip to the container neck without hindering the articulation of the tie rod upon removal of the closure system from the container neck.

242. Kit of parts, according to claim 240 or 241, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to one or more areas thereof to cause one or more areas to deform, shrink or curl inward and create a rim to engage a flange on a container neck.

243. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 240 to 242, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more tabs hinged thereto.

244. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 240 to 243, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more projections or cams thereon configured to release a container neck when the closure system is placed on it, and one or more areas of the tamper-evident strip is or are configured to deform or shrink inward when heat is applied thereto to cause the projections or cams to align with and / or engage the container neck.

245. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 235 to 244, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating it with electromagnetic energy.

246. Parts kit, according to claim 245, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating it with a laser. Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 230 / 290 37 / 57 247. Kit of parts, according to claim 245, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating it with infrared or microwave energy.

248. Kit of parts, according to claim 245, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating it with ultrasound energy.

249. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 235 to 244, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion is adapted to be reshaped by exposing it to a rolling mill, a wire or a heated strip.

250. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 235 to 244, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion is adapted to be reshaped by exposing it to a heated air blade.

251. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 235 to 244, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to a first side of the coupling portion, without applying heat to a second side of the coupling portion, opposite the first side.

252. Parts kit, according to any one of claims 235 to 244, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion is configured to generate a visual indicator when it is reshaped, which is indicative of the reshaping.

253. Parts kit according to claim 252, characterized in that the engagement portion is configured to crystallize by the application of heat to provide a visual indicator.

254. Parts kit, according to claim 252 or 253, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion is configured to change color or opacity by the application of heat to provide a visual indicator.

255. Parts kit, according to claim 254, CHARACTERIZED Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 231 / 290 38 / 57 by the fact that the coupling portion comprises an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period.

256. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 235 to 255, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion comprises a reheating agent to increase its heat absorption.

257. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 235 to 26, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion comprises a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

258. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 234 to 257, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system comprises polyethylene terephthalate material.

259. Kit of parts, according to claim 258, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system comprises a multimodal polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material formed from a first PET having a first molecular weight and a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

260. Parts kit, according to claim 258 or 259, CHARACTERIZED in that the polyethylene terephthalate comprises an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.7 dl / g.

261. Parts kit, according to claim 258 or 259, CHARACTERIZED in that the polyethylene terephthalate comprises an intrinsic viscosity between 0.3 dl / g and 0.7 dl / g.

262. Parts kit according to claim 234, characterized in that the coupling portion is adapted to be reshaped by mechanical deformation.

263. Parts kit, according to any one of claims 234 to 262, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is configured to be reshaped in conjunction with an anti-rotation or locking feature of a closing system bottleneck.

264. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 234 to 262, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion is configured to be reshaped to provide a gripping feature on an inner surface of the closure system to cooperate with a gripping feature of a container neck.

265. Kit of parts, according to claim 264, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement portion comprises a selected portion of a cylindrical skirt that depends on an upper wall of the closure system, which is configured to be reshaped by applying heat to it so that it conforms to a gripping feature of the container neck.

266. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 234 to 265, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system is configured to be placed on a container neck so that the gripping features thereof do not engage with the container neck, and the entire closure system is configured to be reshaped so that the gripping features of the closure system engage gripping features of the container neck after or as the closure system is reshaped.

267. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 234 to 266, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion comprises an internal stress.

268. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 234 to 267, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion comprises one or more ribs.

269. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 234 to 268, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a top wall, a cylindrical skirt that depends on the top wall and an annular tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident strip is configured to prevent the container from engaging when the closure system is installed on a container neck opening and to be reshaped, in use, with the closure system installed on the container, to thus engage the tamper-evident strip to the container.

270. Parts kit according to claim 269, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a substantially cylindrical inner surface devoid of engagement features to enable a container neck flange to be received thereon in a free manner.

271. Parts kit, according to claim 269 or 270, CHARACTERIZED in that at least part of the connection between the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt is frangible.

272. Parts kit, according to claim 269 or 270, CHARACTERIZED in that at least part of the tamper-evident strip is connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane.

273. Parts kit according to claim 272, characterized in that the membrane has a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt.

274. Kit of parts, according to claim 272 or 273, CHARACTERIZED in that the membrane comprises one or more ribs having a radial wall thickness that is greater than that of the rest of the membrane.

275. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 269 to 274, CHARACTERIZED in that at least part of the tamper-evident strip has a radial wall thickness that is a value between 0.6 mm or less, 0.5 mm or less, 0.4 mm or less, or even 0.3 mm or less, wherein, for example, the tamper-evident strip comprises a film. Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 234 / 290 41 / 57 276. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 269 to 275, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a first annular portion connected to the cylindrical skirt of the locking system and a second annular portion that depends on the first annular portion, wherein the second annular portion has a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the first annular portion.

277. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 269 to 276, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a tie rod connecting the tamper-evident strip to the cylindrical skirt.

278. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 269 to 277, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises one or more tabs hinged to the tamper-evident strip and configured to deform upon application of heat thereto.

279. Parts kit, according to any one of claims 269 to 278, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a non-frangible connection between the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt.

280. Parts kit according to claim 279, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a frangible line through its height, which is close to the non-frangible connection, such that the tamper-evident strip becomes a strip connected to the closure system by the non-frangible connection upon first removal, in use, of the closure system from a container neck.

281. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 269 to 280, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more ribs.

282. Parts kit, according to any one of claims 269 to 281, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

283. Parts kit, according to any one of claims 269 to 282, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip is longer than the cylindrical skirt and is connected to the cylindrical skirt by a frangible connection or membrane extending radially or conically.

284. Kit of parts, according to any one of claims 269 to 283, CHARACTERIZED in that an inner surface of the cylindrical skirt is substantially cylindrical and devoid of a gripping feature to enable the closure system to be received into the neck of the container in a free manner.

285. Method for installing a closure system on a container neck CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises placing the closure system on the container neck and irradiating part of the closure system with a laser to engage the closure system to the container neck, wherein at least the irradiated part of the closure system comprises a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material.

286. Method according to claim 285, CHARACTERIZED in that irradiating part of the closure system with a laser comprises directing a substantially flat laser beam onto part of the closure system or the neck of the container.

287. Method for installing a closure system on a container neck CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises placing the closure system on the container neck and irradiating part of the closure system with a substantially flat laser beam to engage the closure system to the container neck.

288. Method according to claim 286 or 287, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises rotating the closing system while the closing system portion is irradiated by the substantially flat laser beam. Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 236 / 290 43 / 57 289. A method according to any one of claims 286 to 288, characterized in that it comprises modifying one or more features of a laser emitted by a source using one or more optical devices to provide, alter, or redirect the substantially planar laser beam.

290. Method according to claim 289, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more optical devices comprise a rotating polygonal mirror for scattering the laser emitted by the source.

291. Method according to claim 289, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more optical devices comprise a free-form mirror for scattering the laser emitted by the source.

292. A method according to any one of claims 289 to 291, characterized in that it comprises carrying along a transport direction a plurality of closure systems, each in a respective container neck, and irradiating part of each closure system simultaneously with a substantially flat laser beam.

293. Method according to claim 292, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more optical devices comprise one or more mirrors on an opposite side of the closure systems with respect to the source, and at least part of the substantially planar laser beam travels around or between the closure systems and is reflected back into the closure systems by one or more mirrors.

294. Method according to claim 293, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure systems with respect to the source comprise a series of alternating peaks and depressions.

295. Method according to claim 294, CHARACTERIZED in that at least some of the peaks and troughs of the series are substantially identical. Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 237 / 290 44 / 57 296. Method according to claim 294, CHARACTERIZED in that at least some of the peaks and troughs of the series vary in amplitude.

297. Method according to claim 295 or 296, CHARACTERIZED in that each peak comprises a pair of opposing flanks that are substantially smooth or flat.

298. Method according to claim 293, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure systems with respect to the source comprise a concave mirror associated with each closure system.

299. Method according to claim 298, CHARACTERIZED in that the concave mirrors move with the locking systems along the direction of transport.

300. Method, according to any one of claims 292 to 299, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more optical devices comprise a scanning lens for providing the substantially planar laser beam with a substantially planar focal spot along the direction of transport.

301. A method according to any one of claims 292 to 300, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises supporting a radial support flange of the container neck and engaging opposite sides of a container body that relies on the container neck both to transport the container along the direction of transport and to rotate the container and the closure system as the same is transported along the direction of transport.

302. Method according to claim 301, CHARACTERIZED in that the opposite sides of a container body are engaged using a pair of carriers that each engage the container body at a different axial location.

303. Method, according to any of claims 286 to 302, Petition 870250090508, 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 238 / 290 45 / 57 CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the substantially flat laser beam is directed along part of the circumference of a tamper-evident closure system strip to engage the tamper-evident strip to a container neck flange.

304. Method according to claim 303, CHARACTERIZED in that directing the laser beam substantially flat along part of the circumference of a tamper-evident strip of the closure system causes a free edge of the tamper-evident strip to curl inward to engage with the flange of the container neck.

305. Method according to claim 303 or 304, CHARACTERIZED in that a conjugated surface of the tamper-evident strip releases the flange when the closure system is placed on the container neck, but is configured to engage the flange if the closure system is removed from the container neck after the tamper-evident strip has been irradiated by the substantially flat laser beam.

306. Method according to claim 305, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip has a substantially cylindrical inner surface molded by a substantially cylindrical outer surface of a core to inhibit internal stresses in the molded tamper-evident strip.

307. Method according to claim 306, CHARACTERIZED in that the substantially cylindrical inner surface of the tamper-evident strip is devoid of any engagement features.

308. Method, according to any one of claims 303 to 307, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip has a substantially constant wall thickness between 0.3 mm and 0.8 mm.

309. Method, according to any one of claims 303 to 308, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip has a substantially constant radial wall thickness that is between 10% and 25% of its axial length.

310. Method, according to any one of claims 303 to 309, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip has a substantially constant radial wall thickness that is between 12% and 23% of its axial length.

311. Method, according to any one of claims 303 to 310, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip has a substantially constant radial wall thickness that is between 14% and 21% of its axial length.

312. Method, according to any one of claims 303 to 311, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more hardened portions and one or more weakened portions so as to deform preferentially with respect to one or more hardened portions when a substantially flat laser beam is directed at them.

313. Method, according to any one of claims 303 to 312, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a first annular portion connected to the cylindrical skirt of the closure system and a second annular portion that depends on the first annular portion, wherein the second annular portion has a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the first annular portion, and the substantially flat laser beam is directed along part of the circumference of the second annular portion to engage the tamper-evident strip to a flange of the container neck.

314. Method according to claim 313, CHARACTERIZED in that the radial wall thickness of the second annular portion is at least 20% less than that of the first annular portion.

315. Method, according to claim 313, CHARACTERIZED by Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 240 / 290 47 / 57, in that the radial wall thickness of the second annular portion is between 40% and 90% of the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion.

316. Method according to claim 313, CHARACTERIZED in that the radial wall thickness of the second annular portion is between 50% and 80% of the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion.

317. A method according to any one of claims 313 to 316, characterized in that the second annular portion has an axial height that is at least 50% of the axial height of the first annular portion.

318. A method according to any one of claims 313 to 316, characterized in that the second annular portion has an axial height that is at least 80% of the axial height of the first annular portion.

319. A method according to any one of claims 313 to 316, characterized in that the second annular portion has an axial height that is at least equal to an axial height of the first annular portion.

320. Method, according to any one of claims 313 to 319, CHARACTERIZED in that the axial height of the second annular portion is less than 3 times that of the first annular portion.

321. A method, according to any of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED in that the part of the closure system is irradiated so as to create a predetermined temperature differential between an external surface of the part of the closure system and an internal surface of the same.

322. A method, according to any of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED in that the irradiation of the closing system part comprises generating a visual indicator.

323. Method according to claim 322, CHARACTERIZED in that the generation of the visual indicator comprises crystallizing part of the closing system. Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 241 / 290 48 / 57 324. Method according to claim 322 or 323, CHARACTERIZED in that the generation of the visual indicator comprises changing a color or opacity of the part of the closing system.

325. Method according to claim 324, CHARACTERIZED in that the closing system part comprises an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period.

326. A method, according to any of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system comprises a multimodal PET material formed from a first PET having a first molecular weight and a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

327. A method, according to any of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED in that the closure system comprises PET having an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dl / g.

328. Method according to claim 327, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises molding a PET closure system having an intrinsic viscosity between 0.4 dl / g and 0.8 dl / g.

329. A method, according to any of the preceding claims, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises punching, cutting slits, or cutting a membrane that joins the tamper-evident feature to the closure system while the closure system is installed on the neck of a container, thereby providing a frangible connection between them.

330. System for engaging a closure system to a container neck, wherein the system is CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises means of transport for carrying along a transport direction one or more containers, each with a closure system on a neck thereof, and Petition 870250090508, dated 03 / 10 / 2025, pp. 242 / 290 49 / 57 an operable laser assembly for irradiating part or each closure system with a substantially flat laser beam as it is carried along the transport direction to cause the closure system to engage with the container neck.

331. System according to claim 330, CHARACTERIZED in that the means of transport are operable to rotate the closing system and container neck while the closing system part is irradiated by the substantially flat laser beam.

332. System according to claim 330 or 331, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises one or more optical devices for modifying one or more characteristics of a laser emitted by a source to provide, alter or redirect the substantially planar laser beam.

333. System according to claim 332, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more optical devices comprise a rotating polygonal mirror for scattering the laser emitted by the source.

334. System according to claim 332, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more optical devices comprise a free-form mirror for scattering the laser emitted by the source.

335. System, according to any one of claims 332 to 334, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more optical devices comprise one or more mirrors on an opposite side of the closure systems with respect to the source for reflecting at least part of the substantially plane laser beam that travels around or between the closure systems back to the closure systems.

336. System according to claim 335, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closing systems with respect to the source comprise a series of alternating peaks and dips. Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 243 / 290 50 / 57 337. System according to claim 336, CHARACTERIZED in that at least some of the peaks and troughs of the series are substantially identical.

338. System according to claim 336, CHARACTERIZED in that at least some of the peaks and troughs in the series vary in amplitude.

339. System according to claim 337 or 338, CHARACTERIZED in that each peak comprises a pair of opposing flanks that are substantially smooth or flat.

340. System according to claim 335, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure systems with respect to the source comprise a concave mirror associated with each closure system.

341. System according to claim 340, CHARACTERIZED in that the concave mirrors move with the locking systems along the direction of travel.

342. System, according to any one of claims 332 to 341, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more optical devices comprise a scanning lens for providing the substantially planar laser beam with a substantially planar focal spot along the direction of transport.

343. System according to any one of claims 330 to 342, CHARACTERIZED in that the means of transport comprise a rail for supporting a radial support flange of the container neck and a pair of conveyors that engage opposite sides of a container body that depends on the container neck both to transport the container along the direction of transport and to rotate the container and the closing system as the same is transported along the direction of transport.

344. System according to claim 343, CHARACTERIZED by Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 244 / 290 51 / 57, in that a first carrier among the carriers is additionally spaced from the rail than a second carrier among the carriers to engage opposite sides of the container body at a different axial location.

345. System according to any one of claims 330 to 344, CHARACTERIZED in that the substantially planar laser beam is oriented along the transport direction.

346. System according to any one of claims 330 to 345, CHARACTERIZED in that the laser assembly is configured to irradiate the closure system part so as to create a predetermined temperature differential between an external surface thereof and an internal surface thereof.

347. System, according to any one of claims 330 to 346, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises means for piercing, slitting or cutting a membrane that joins a tamper-evident feature of the closure system to the rest of the closure system while the same is installed in the neck of a container, to thereby provide a frangible connection between them.

348. Closure system CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material having an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dl / g and a coupling portion that is adapted to be reshaped by laser irradiation.

349. Closure system, according to claim 348, CHARACTERIZED in that the PET comprises an intrinsic viscosity between 0.3 dl / g and 0.7 dl / g.

350. Closure system, according to claim 348 or 349, CHARACTERIZED in that the PET comprises a multimodal PET material formed from a first PET having a first molecular weight and a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

351. A locking system, according to any one of claims 348 to 350, CHARACTERIZED in that the locking portion comprises a mating surface configured to release a flange from a container neck when the locking system is placed on it, but is configured to lock the flange if the locking system is removed from the container neck after the locking portion has been irradiated by a laser.

352. A locking system, according to any one of claims 348 to 351, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises an upper wall and a cylindrical skirt that depends on the upper wall, the engagement portion comprising an annular tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt.

353. Closure system CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises an upper wall, a cylindrical skirt that depends on the upper wall and an annular tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt that is adapted to be reshaped by laser irradiation, wherein the closure system is formed from a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material and the tamper-evident strip comprises a substantially cylindrical conjugated surface configured to release a flange from a container neck when the closure system is placed on the same, but is configured to engage the flange if the closure system is removed from the container neck after the engagement portion is irradiated by a laser.

354. Closure system, according to claim 352 or 69353, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip is substantially free of residual circumferential stress.

355. Closure system CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material comprising an upper wall and a cylindrical skirt that depends on the upper wall, and a tamper-evident strip connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident strip is substantially free of residual circumferential stress and is adapted to be reshaped by laser irradiation.

356. Closure system, according to any one of claims 352 to 355, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a free-edge portion configured to deform, shrink or curl radially upon irradiation by a laser to form a radial rim for engaging a flange of a container neck.

357. A locking system, according to any one of claims 352 to 356, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a substantially cylindrical inner surface devoid of any engagement features.

358. Closure system, according to any one of claims 352 to 357, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip has a substantially constant wall thickness between 0.3 mm and 0.8 mm.

359. Closure system, according to any one of claims 352 to 358, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip has a substantially constant radial wall thickness that is between 10% and 25% of its axial length.

360. Closure system, according to any one of claims 352 to 359, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip has a substantially constant radial wall thickness that is between 12% and 23% of its axial length.

361. Closure system, according to any one of claims 352 to 360, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip has a substantially constant radial wall thickness that is between 14% and 21% of its axial length.

362. Closure system, according to any one of claims 352 to 361, CHARACTERIZED in that at least part of the connection between the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt is frangible.

363. Closure system, according to any one of claims 352 to 361, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip is connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane.

364. Closure system, according to claim 363, CHARACTERIZED in that the membrane has a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the tamper-evident strip and the cylindrical skirt.

365. Closure system, according to any one of claims 352 to 364, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises one or more hardened portions and one or more weakened portions.

366. Closure system, according to any one of claims 352 to 365, CHARACTERIZED in that the tamper-evident strip comprises a first annular portion connected to the cylindrical skirt of the closure system and a second annular portion that depends on the first annular portion, wherein the second annular portion has a radial wall thickness that is less than that of the first annular portion.

367. Closing system, according to claim 366, CHARACTERIZED in that the radial wall thickness of the second annular portion is at least 20% less than that of the first annular portion.

368. Closure system, according to claim 366, CHARACTERIZED in that the radial wall thickness of the second annular portion is between 40% and 90% of the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion.

369. Closure system, according to claim 366, Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pp. 248 / 290 55 / 57 CHARACTERIZED in that the radial wall thickness of the second annular portion is between 50% and 80% of the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion.

370. Closing system, according to any one of claims 366 to 369, CHARACTERIZED in that the second annular portion has an axial height that is at least 50% of the axial height of the first annular portion.

371. Closing system, according to any one of claims 366 to 369, CHARACTERIZED in that the second annular portion has an axial height that is at least 80% of the axial height of the first annular portion.

372. Closing system, according to any one of claims 366 to 369, CHARACTERIZED in that the second annular portion has an axial height that is at least equal to the axial height of the first annular portion.

373. Closing system, according to any one of claims 370 to 372, CHARACTERIZED in that the axial height of the second annular portion is less than 3 times that of the first annular portion.

374. Closure system, according to any one of claims 352 to 373, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a tie rod connecting the tamper-evident strip to the cylindrical skirt.

375. Closing system, according to claim 374, when dependent on any of claims 366 to 373, CHARACTERIZED in that the tie rod is described, at least partially, by the first annular portion.

376. A locking system, according to any one of claims 348 to 375, CHARACTERIZED in that the locking portion comprises an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period.

377. Closing system, according to any one of claims 348 to 376, CHARACTERIZED in that the coupling portion comprises a reheating agent to increase its heat absorption.

378. Mold stack CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a molding configuration describing a cavity for molding a closure system, as defined in any one of claims 348 to 377.

379. A mold stack, according to claim 378, when dependent on any one of claims 352 to 375, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises an extractor sleeve that is movable, in use, to come into contact with the tamper-evident strip of a molded closure system, wherein the extractor sleeve has a first surface and a second surface for simultaneously coming into contact with a side and lower side surface of the tamper-evident strip, respectively, during extraction from the molded closure system.

380. A mold stack, according to claim 379, CHARACTERIZED in that the ejector sleeve comprises a pocket defining the first and second surfaces, the pocket having a depth configured such that an upper surface of the ejector sleeve, adjacent to the pocket, contacts part of a margin of the cylindrical skirt during ejection to transfer an ejection force to it.

381. A mold stack, according to claim 379 or 380, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises an insert or cavity assembly having a molding surface that describes at least part of an outer surface of each of the cylindrical skirt and the tamper-evident strip.

382. Mold CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a plurality of mold stacks, as defined in any one of claims 378 to 381.

383. Molding system CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises the mold, as defined in claim 382.

384. Packaging system CHARACTERIZED by the fact that Petition 870250090508, dated 10 / 03 / 2025, pages 250 / 290 57 / 57 comprises the system, as defined in any of claims 330 to 347, and one or more of a visual inspection station, a capping station, a labeling station, a coding station, a laser marking station and / or a cartoning station.

385. Kit of parts for assembly in a package, wherein the kit is CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises a container and a molded closure system to seal a neck opening of the container, wherein the closure system comprises an engagement portion configured to prevent the container from engaging when the closure system is installed in the neck opening of the container and to be reshaped, in use, by means of laser irradiation, with the closure system installed in the container, to thus engage the engagement portion to the container.

386. Parts kit according to claim 385, characterized in that the locking system comprises a locking system as defined in any of the claims.

Images