Knife for cutting caps

Abstract

The present invention relates to a blade (100; 100') for cutting caps, arranged to be fitted in a cutting device for obtaining cut lines and notches on caps (7) made of plastic and intended to close containers, the blade (100; 100') being adapted to create cuts and notches on the sidewalls (70) of the cap (7) as the cap (7) moves in a forward direction (T) along a path interacting with the blade (100; 100') by rotating about its own axis of rotation (R). The blade (100; 100') includes a notch and a kerf, comprising a cutting edge arrangement (60; 60') extending from a peripheral region (19; 19') of the blade (100; 100'), the cutting edge arrangement (60; 60') including an opening forming portion (68a; 68a') and at least one connection forming portion (64a; 64a'); the blade (100; 100') is composed of a single-piece structure, in which the cutting edge arrangement (60; 60') is obtained.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a knife for cutting caps, sashes, or stoppers made of a type of plastic used for sealing containers such as bottles. Specifically, the invention relates to a knife arranged to cut the sidewall of a cap to obtain a tamper-evident strap or ring and one or more connecting portions, also called hoops or hinges, on the sidewall, which connect the tamper-evident strap or ring to different parts of the cap, such as the body of the cap, i.e., the portion of the sidewall having the closed end of the cap. Background Technology

[0002] The blade can also be arranged to cut the sidewalls of the cap so that a tab is created on the cap body after the container is opened. This tab is a portion of the body shaped to hold the cap in a preset position relative to the tamper-evident ring, making it easy for the user to use the container.

[0003] The design of items made from plastic materials is increasingly geared towards recyclable materials and reusable items. As a result, even in the field of container caps, there is a growing demand for caps with tamper-evident rings that keep the cap on its tamper-evident ring even after the container has been opened.

[0004] In use, when a cap with a tamper-evident strip and a clamp is applied to the container opening (e.g., a bottle) to close the container, the tamper-evident strip is placed in a seat typically defined between two annular protrusions belonging to the container body, which restrict axial movement of the tamper-evident ring. By unscrewing the cap, the container opens, the tamper-evident strip remains in its seat, and the clamp holds the cap engaged with the tamper-evident ring, and thus with the bottle, even if the closed end of the cap has been removed from the container opening. The shape of the tab is particularly well-suited to holding the closed end of the cap in a position, specifically a position relative to the tamper-evident ring or the container opening, making the container opening easily accessible to the user.

[0005] This facilitates efficient recycling of plastics because the tamper-evident ring can be separated from the bottle along with the cap—that is, it is separated from the bottle when the cap plastic material is intended for recycling. Furthermore, keeping the cap attached to the tamper-evident ring even after the container has been opened helps prevent the cap from spilling into the environment.

[0006] The bands on the sidewalls of the cap are primarily obtained through two processing methods: by forming, i.e., providing a suitable mold to form the band; or by cutting, i.e., providing cuts and notches on the already formed sidewalls of the cap. The cuts and notches define the sidewall portions that can be partially detached from the rest of the cap's sidewalls, such sidewall portions defining the connecting portion or band, in addition to the tamper-evident ring and the tab. Techniques for producing the bands by combining the specific shape of the mold used to form the cap with the defined shape of the notches obtained on the cap after forming are also known.

[0007] As is well known, some cutting devices include blades suitable for cutting or creating slits on the cap sidewalls to determine the circumferential weakening and preferred separation line between the anti-tamper strip and the rest of the cap sidewalls (i.e., the body). This type of cutting is also known as horizontal cutting.

[0008] It is also well known that some cutting devices are suitable for cutting and creating slits at one or more points or areas on the sidewall of the cap in a direction substantially parallel to the cap axis, in order to obtain, for example, a weakened area in a tamper-evident strip. This type of cutting is also known as vertical cutting.

[0009] It is also well known that some cutting devices are suitable for making kerfs on the sidewalls of the cap by horizontal and vertical cuts in a radial position. These cutting devices typically include a blade for horizontal cutting, with an insert having a vertical blade positioned downstream of the blade to make kerfs on the cap by vertical cutting.

[0010] It is also well known that some cutting devices have blades that include multiple blades to obtain connecting parts or clamps and tongues.

[0011] The different cutting devices described above have blades manufactured for specific cutting geometries and cap sizes. As the complexity of a specific cutting geometry increases, the cutting device appears as a combination of more parts or blades assembled between them. This means that cap manufacturers must locate and store multiple blades equipped with the cutting device when a cap production batch needs to be changed. Furthermore, equipping the cutting device with new blades requires a given amount of machine downtime, as such blades must first be assembled onto their parts and then onto the cutting equipment, which involves high production costs. Additionally, the blades used to obtain the clamps and tabs have complex structures, requiring the replacement of numerous parts once worn, thus increasing production costs when manufacturing caps with such complex structures. Moreover, the assembly and configuration of such parts is very time-consuming and requires high precision in the relative positioning between parts to continuously form notches on the cap wall. In use, mispositioning and / or relative displacement between parts result in low-quality notches, leading to reduced yield of the cutting device and increased waste. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The objective of this invention is to improve upon the existing blade technology for cap-cutting equipment.

[0013] Another objective of this invention is to provide an alternative solution for making cuts on caps.

[0014] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a blade for a cap cutting device for making cuts on the sidewalls of plastic caps for creating slits for other elements such as hoops or tabs, and having a relatively simple structure.

[0015] According to the present invention, a knife is provided, arranged for assembly in a cutting device for obtaining cut lines and notches on a cap made of plastic and intended to close a container. When the cap is rotated about its own axis of rotation to move in a forward direction along a path interacting with the knife, the knife is adapted to create notches and cuts on the sidewalls of the cap. The knife includes a cutting edge arrangement extending from a peripheral region of the knife, the cutting edge arrangement comprising: - an opening forming portion extending parallel to a horizontal plane orthogonal to the axis of rotation, the opening forming portion being arranged to create at least one circumferential notch on the sidewall at a first height along a vertical axis substantially parallel to the axis of rotation to define a tamper-evident ring and a body in the cap; - at least one connecting portion occupying a region in the knife extending between the first height and a second height along the vertical axis greater than the first height, the at least one connecting portion being arranged to create at least one notch on the sidewall to define at least one connecting portion connecting the tamper-evident ring and the body; characterized in that the knife is composed of a single-piece structure, the cutting edge being obtained in the single-piece structure.

[0016] As a result of the present invention, a knife made of a single piece can be provided, which can produce a cut with a generally complex geometry by means of cutting profiles arranged according to different inclinations, especially continuous and connectable cutting profiles.

[0017] This invention provides a robust, compact, and stable knife. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The invention will be better understood and practiced with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some exemplary and non-limiting embodiments of the invention, wherein:

[0019] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a knife for cutting caps;

[0020] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The details show the cutting protrusion of the knife;

[0021] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the blade arrangement of a knife;

[0022] Figure 4A It is in the closed configuration of the cap. Figure 1 A cylindrical projection view of the sidewall of the cap cut by a knife;

[0023] Figure 4B It is in the cap opening configuration. Figure 1 A cylindrical projection view of the sidewall of the cap cut by a knife;

[0024] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A plan view of the blade;

[0025] Figure 6A yes Figure 5 First detailed view;

[0026] Figure 6B yes Figure 5 The second detailed view;

[0027] Figure 6C yes Figure 5 The third detailed view;

[0028] Figure 6D yes Figure 5 The fourth detailed view;

[0029] Figure 6E yes Figure 5 The fifth detailed view;

[0030] Figure 6F yes Figure 5 The sixth detailed view;

[0031] Figure 6G yes Figure 5 The seventh detailed view;

[0032] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a knife for cutting caps;

[0033] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The details show the cutting protrusion of the knife;

[0034] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the blade arrangement of a knife;

[0035] Figure 10A It is in the closed configuration of the cap. Figure 7 A cylindrical projection view of the sidewall of the cap cut by a knife;

[0036] Figure 10B It is in the cap opening configuration. Figure 7 A cylindrical projection view of the sidewall of the cap cut by a knife. Detailed Implementation

[0037] refer to Figure 1-34A, 4B, 5, 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F, and 6G disclose a first embodiment of a knife for cutting a cap or lid, specifically a knife 100 arranged to cut or make slits on the sidewall 70 of a cap 7. The cap 7 is made of plastic material and is intended to seal a container, such as a bottle. The cap 7 has a cup-shaped body 71 and a closed end 8 and an open end 9.

[0038] The blade 100 is arranged to be mounted in the cutting device to obtain a cutting line and a notch on the cap 7.

[0039] The term "cut" or "notch" refers to an area in the cap 7 with a piercing cut, i.e., a through-cut where the continuity of material has been interrupted by the action of a knife. The term "slit" refers to an area in the cap 7 with a very thin sidewall 70, where the thickness is very small because the knife penetrates the material to a given depth without interrupting the material's continuity. Depending on the cap wall thickness, the same action of the knife, i.e., the same penetration depth of the knife, can create a cut at a location where the penetration depth is equal to or greater than the wall thickness, or a slit at a location where the same penetration depth is less than the wall thickness.

[0040] The blade 100 includes at least one cutting protrusion arranged to interact with the wall of the cap 7 to create a notch or slit thereon. Specifically, the blade 100 includes multiple cutting protrusions, such as a first cutting protrusion, a second cutting protrusion, a third cutting protrusion, and a fourth cutting protrusion. The blade 100 has a plate structure made in a single piece, wherein the cutting protrusions are obtained, thereby defining the cutting portion of the blade 100, hereinafter referred to as a cutting edge arrangement 60. In this disclosure, a cutting edge arrangement refers to an arrangement or assembly of cutting edges of different shapes and sizes equipped on the blade, which enable the blade to perform cutting and / or slicing on the cap 7 when the blade 100 is mounted in a cutting device for cutting and creating notches on the cap.

[0041] refer to Figure 7-9 Figures 10A and 10B illustrate a second embodiment of the blade, namely blade 100'. Blade 100' has a plate structure made in a single piece, wherein the cutting edge has a different inclination relative to the cutting edge of blade 100. This structure defines the cutting portion of blade 100', namely the cutting edge arrangement 60'.

[0042] Knives 100 and 100' are suitable for forming a tamper-evident strip or ring 72 in the cap 7. Figure 4A , 4B10A, 10B). Blades 100, 100' are adapted to form connecting portions 74a, 74b between the tamper-evident ring 72 and the body 71. By means of the connecting portions 74a, 74b, the body 71 of the cap 7 remains connected to the tamper-evident ring 72, even when the cap 7 is removed from the container opening to open the container and retrieve the contents, i.e., when the cap is in the open configuration D (…). Figure 4B , 10B The same applies at other times.

[0043] The blades 100 and 100' are also adapted to form protruding portions 79 and 79' in the sidewall 70 of the body 71 of the cap 7. The protruding portions 79 and 79' allow the body 71 of the cap 7 to be held in a flipped position at the container opening. When the cap is in the open configuration D, assuming there are clamps 74a, 74b, 74a', and 74b' connecting the anti-pry ring 72 and the body 71, the body 71 is held up at the container opening and blocks the container opening even if it is disengaged from the container opening; in order to make the container opening not obstructed by the body 71 and to make the container opening where the cap 7 is located easily accessible, it may be necessary to flip the body 71 relative to the anti-pry ring 72; once the body 71 is flipped, due to the elasticity of the clamps, the body 71 may return to the configuration close to open D if it is not held. The tongue portions 79, 79' can stably hold the main body 71 in a flip configuration (not shown) relative to the anti-pick-up ring 72, thereby forming the tongue portions 79, 79' shaped to abut against the main body holding element specifically placed on the main body 71 or the container opening.

[0044] The blades 100 and 100' within the cutting device engage with a rotating shaft (not shown), which grips the cap 7, causing it to rotate about an axis parallel to or coinciding with the axis of the cap 7. The rotating shaft guides the sidewall 70 of the cap 7 into contact with the cutting portions of the blades 100 and 100', moves the cap 7 along a substantially arcuate path in the forward direction T, and rotates the cap 7 on the rotating shaft R, causing the cap to roll against the cutting portions of the blades 100 and 100'. It is well known that the possibility of the cap sliding relative to the shaft or the cutting portions is undesirable. Based on the cutting edge arrangements 60 and 60' of the cutting portions of the blades 100 and 100', corresponding cuts are obtained on the sidewall 70 of the cap. In other words, such cutting edge arrangements 60 and 60' are translated into recesses on the sidewall 70 of the cap 7.

[0045] refer to Figure 1 and 7 It must be noted that the forward direction T and rotation direction R of the cap 7 are only illustrative, and the effect of the blades 100 and 100' on the cap 7 is the same as the effect that can be obtained by reversing the forward direction T and rotation direction R.

[0046] refer to Figure 3 , 94B, 10B, after the cutting and kerf-making action, the cutting blade arrangements 60, 60' define a body 71 and a tamper-evident strip or ring 72 in the sidewall 70. In this disclosure, the term "body" is associated with the portion of the sidewall 70 having a closed end 8, while the phrase "tamper-evident strip" or "tamper-evident ring" is associated with the portion of the sidewall 70 having an open end 9 and being substantially annular.

[0047] The main body 71 and the anti-tampering strap 72 are interconnected by multiple connecting parts or hoops 74a, 74b and multiple bridges 73, which are components made of plastic material and are expected to be broken by the user when the container containing the cap 7 is first opened, thus providing evidence that the container cap has been tampered with.

[0048] Special Reference Figure 4A and 10A The cap 7, whose sidewall 70 is shown on the illustrated plane, has a closed configuration C, in which bridges 73, 73' are integral and, together with hoops 74a, 74b, 74a', 74b', engage the tamper-evident strip 72 to the body 71. The cap is in the closed configuration C before or after application to the container and before the container is first opened and the cap is activated.

[0049] Special Reference Figure 4B and 10B The cap 7, shown on the illustrated plane, has an open configuration D, in which bridges 73 and 73' are disconnected, the body 71 is spaced apart from the tamper-evident strip 72, and the tamper-evident strip 72 is connected to the body 71 only by hoops 74a, 74b, 74a', and 74b'. The cap is in open configuration D after being applied to the container and after the container is first opened and the cap is removed from it.

[0050] refer to Figure 1 , 2 And 5, knife 100 particularly has a plate structure shape, that is, it extends mainly along two main dimensions relative to the third lateral dimension (thickness) and has a planar shape, particularly like a rectangle ( Figure 5 The principal dimension may lie specifically on plane P, and the lateral dimension may lie specifically along the vertical axis Z and substantially orthogonal to plane P. The axis Z is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation R of the cap 7. The knife 100 has two planes that are substantially parallel to each other and parallel to plane P; the bottom surface 17 and the top surface 18.

[0051] The cutting protrusions of blades 100 and 100' specifically include a plurality of blades. Each of the plurality of blades includes a root or proximal end of a peripheral region 19 or 19' of blade 100 or 100', and a cutting edge or distal end arranged to make a cut or notch on the sidewall 70 of cap 7. Cutting edge arrangements 60 or 60' extend from the peripheral region 19 or 19' and face the axis of rotation R, i.e., the cap 7, during use.

[0052] The blade may specifically include one or more notches 16, 16' arranged to form bridges 73, 73'. The spacing and size of such notches 16, 16' should be appropriate so that the continuity of the material is not interrupted, for example, without causing localized effects or creating cuts without piercing the cap sidewall 70, thereby forming bridges 73, 73'.

[0053] The blade 100 specifically includes a first cutting protrusion extending parallel to the horizontal plane P in the peripheral region 19. This first cutting protrusion is specifically arranged to create a circumferential notch at a first height along the vertical axis Z on the sidewall 70 in order to define an anti-tampering ring 72 in the cap 7.

[0054] The first cutting edge specifically includes a plurality of first cutting edges 11, 14, 15, 23a, 23b, which may be spaced apart from each other particularly along the direction of travel T.

[0055] The first cutting edges 11, 14, 15, 23a, and 23b can be located on the same plane parallel to plane P, thus the first protrusions act as horizontal cutting tools. On a vertical axis Z orthogonal to plane P, the first plane is at a given height relative to plane P. Engaging the plurality of first cutting edges 11, 14, 15, 23a, and 23b yields a curve of a first basic arc, centered on an axis substantially orthogonal to plane P, outside of blades 100 and 100'. The first cutting protrusions are specifically arranged to facilitate the formation of hoops 74a and 74b on the sidewall 70 together with the second and third cutting protrusions, and to create cuts and slits separating the body 71 from the anti-pry strip 72.

[0056] The blade 100 specifically includes a second cutting protrusion extending parallel to the horizontal plane P in the peripheral region 19. Specifically, this second cutting protrusion at least partially overlaps with the first cutting protrusion, forming one or more segments of a predetermined length measured along the direction of travel T. This second cutting protrusion is specifically arranged to create a circumferential notch at a second height along the vertical axis Z on the sidewall 70, and, in use, together with the first cutting protrusion, defines the connection portion connecting the anti-pickup ring 72 and the body 71.

[0057] The second cutting edge specifically includes a plurality of second cutting edges 13, 22a, 22b, which may be spaced apart from each other specifically along the direction of travel T.

[0058] The second cutting edges 13, 22a, and 22b are located on the same second plane parallel to plane P, thus the second protrusions act as horizontal cutting tools. By engaging multiple second cutting edges 13, 22a, and 22b, a second basic arc curve can be obtained, its center located on an axis substantially orthogonal to plane P, outside of blades 100 and 100'. The second cutting protrusions are specifically arranged to facilitate the definition of hoops 74a and 74b on the sidewall 70 during use, together with the first cutting protrusions; specifically, to define the central portions 77a and 77b of the hoops 74a and 74b.

[0059] The blade 100 includes a third cutting protrusion in the peripheral region 19, which is arranged to create an inclined and / or vertical notch on the sidewall 70. This third cutting protrusion is specifically arranged to facilitate the definition of clamps 74a, 74b and tongue portions 79 on the sidewall 70 together with the first and / or second cutting protrusions during use, specifically defining the joint portions 75a, 75b, 76a, 76b of the clamps 74a, 74b and the tongue portion 79.

[0060] The third cutting edge specifically includes a plurality of third cutting edges 12, 21a, 21b, 24a, 24b, 31, which may be spaced apart from each other particularly along the direction of travel T.

[0061] The third cutting protrusion is arranged to create an inclined notch on the sidewall 70. The third cutting protrusion may include at least one third inclined blade 21a, 21b, 24a, 24b, which have an inclination opposite to that of the at least one third inclined cutting blade 12, 31. In this context, the inclination is referenced to a reference plane that passes through the vertical axis Z and is tangent to the direction of travel T.

[0062] Referring specifically to a particular embodiment of blade 100, the third inclined cutting edges 21a, 21b, 24a, and 24b have negative inclination, and the third inclined cutting edges 12 and 31 have positive inclination. Negative inclination corresponds to the upper end of the cutting edge retracting relative to its lower end along the forward direction T, or the lower end retracting relative to its upper end along the forward direction T; positive inclination corresponds to the upper end of the cutting edge advancing relative to its lower end along the forward direction T. (See reference...) Figure 6B For example, the third cutting edge 21b includes an upper end 92 and a lower end 91, and considering the forward direction T, the upper end 92 is retracted relative to the lower end 91, therefore the third cutting edge 21b has a negative inclination. Similarly, refer to... Figure 6C For example, the third cutting edge 31 includes an upper end 94 and a lower end 93, and considering the forward direction T, the upper end 94 is further forward than the lower end 93, so the third cutting edge 31 has a positive inclination.

[0063] The third cutting protrusion may specifically include one or more third vertical blades with corresponding vertical cutting edges.

[0064] Therefore, relative to the Cartesian plane formed by the vertical axis Z orthogonal to plane P and the axis oriented substantially in the direction of travel T, the inclined cutting edge can be oriented on the outer perimeter 19 from any point in the direction of travel T in the following alternative manner:

[0065] - Oriented with a negative tilt, for example, third cutting edges 21a, 21b, 24a, 24b with a negative tilt;

[0066] - Oriented with a positive tilt, for example, with a third cutting edge 12, 31 having a positive tilt;

[0067] - Vertical orientation (not shown), i.e., parallel to the vertical axis Z.

[0068] The outer regions 19 and 19' of the blades 100 and 100' define a third basic circular arc curve in a third plane, with the circumferential center located on a third axis substantially orthogonal to plane P outside the blades 100 and 100'. Furthermore, the outer region 19 defines the surface of the blades 100 and 100', against which the sidewall 70 of the cap 7 can rotate about its axis of rotation R when the blades 100 and 100' make cuts and slits on the sidewall 70. In other words, the third curve defined by the outer regions 19 and 19' facilitates guiding the cap 7 along the path of interaction between the cap 7 and the blades 100 and 100' in the forward direction T.

[0069] The third cutting protrusion is specifically arranged to form an inclined notch on the sidewall 70 of the cap 7, wherein the inclined notch also includes a vertical notch.

[0070] refer to Figure 1-3 The blade 100 specifically includes a fourth cutting protrusion extending parallel to the horizontal plane P in the peripheral region 19. This fourth cutting protrusion is specifically arranged to create a circumferential notch at a third height along the vertical axis Z on the sidewall 70, and, in use, together with the third cutting protrusion, defines a tongue portion 79 on the sidewall 70.

[0071] The fourth cutting protrusion specifically includes a horizontal fourth cutting edge 32. The fourth cutting edge 32, or at least one point thereof, lies on a fourth basic circular arc curve, the center of which is located on a fourth axis substantially orthogonal to plane P, outside the tool 100. The fourth curve, and therefore the fourth cutting edge 32, is located on a third plane at a height equal to or greater than that of the second cutting edges 22a, 22b. The fourth cutting edge 32 has a longitudinal extension distance less than the circumference of the cap sidewall 70 to be machined.

[0072] The fourth cutting edge 32 can be located at different heights measured along the vertical axis Z, for example, at a height higher than that of the second cutting edges 13, 22a, and 22b. Referring specifically to an embodiment of the blade 100, the second and fourth cutting edges are at the same height; in other words, the third height of the fourth cutting protrusion coincides with the second height of the second cutting protrusion, and therefore, the second and fourth planes also coincide.

[0073] Furthermore, in knife 100:

[0074] -The first axis of the first curve defined by the first cutting edges 11, 23a, 23b, 14, 15 of the first cutting protrusion;

[0075] -The second axis of the second curve defined by the second cutting blades 13, 22a, 22b of the second cutting protrusion;

[0076] -The third axis of the third curve defined by the outer perimeter 19; and

[0077] - The fourth axis of the fourth curve defined by the fourth cutting edge 32, which are substantially coincident with each other.

[0078] Furthermore, in knife 100, the relative positions of the following items are:

[0079] - First cutting edges 11, 23a, 23b, 14, 15;

[0080] -Second cutting edges 13, 22a, 22b;

[0081] - Third cutting edges 21a, 21b, 24a, 24b with negative inclination;

[0082] -Having a positively inclined third cutting edge 12, 31;

[0083] -Fourth cutting edge 32;

[0084] The cutting edge arrangement of the limited blade 100 is 60.

[0085] The cutting edge arrangement 60 may include a possible third vertical cutting edge orthogonal to plane P.

[0086] As already mentioned, the first cutting blades 11, 23a, 23b, 14, 15 and the second cutting blades 22a, 22b, 13 are arranged at different heights along the vertical axis Z, that is, at different distances from the plane P.

[0087] refer to Figure 4A and 4B Depending on the relative positions between the cutting edges of the cutting tool, the knife 100 can form different parts on the side wall 70 of the cap 7.

[0088] The blade 100 may specifically form one or more intended separation lines 78a, 78b, 78c on the sidewall 70, which are arranged in the same plane and obtained by making the first cutting edges 11, 14, 15 penetrate the thickness of the sidewall 70.

[0089] The blade 100 may have one or more connecting portions, or clamps 74a, 74b, specifically formed on the sidewall 70. Each clamp 74a, 74b may further include: a central portion 77a, 77b obtained through penetration by the first cutting edge 23a, 23b and the second cutting edge 22a, 22b; and a first joint portion 75a, 75b obtained through penetration by the third cutting edge 21a, 21b with a negative inclination, specifically arranged for connecting the connecting portion 74a and the anti-pick-up ring 72. Each clamp 74a, 74b may further include a second joint portion 76a, 76b, obtained through penetration by the third cutting edge 24a, 24b with a negative inclination, and specifically arranged for connecting the connecting portion 74a and the body 71.

[0090] The blade 100 may have a tongue portion 79 specifically formed on its sidewall 70 due to the penetration of a third cutting edge 21b with a negative inclination, a fourth cutting edge 32, and a third cutting edge 31 with a positive inclination. This tongue portion 79 is specifically arranged to retain the body 71 flipped relative to the anti-tamper ring 72 after the container is opened. Still refer to Figure 4A and 4B The blade 100 may have a toothed portion 78d specifically formed on the body 71 and a corresponding recess formed on the anti-disengagement ring 72. This toothed portion 78d is specifically located downstream of the intended separation line 78a and upstream of the clamp 74a. The toothed portion 78d may be specifically obtained by having a positively inclined third cutting edge 12 and a second cutting edge 13. The toothed portion 78d is specifically arranged to connect the intended separation line 78a to the first joint portion 75a, such that the intended separation lines 78a and 78b lie in the same plane, so that the open end of the body 71 is flat. The toothed portion 78d is allowed to align with the adjacent clamp 74a so that it has greater elasticity in use and is therefore less likely to break. For details, refer to... Figure 3 Along the direction of travel T, the blade 100 may specifically include an opening forming portion 68a, which includes a first cutting edge 11 located on a first plane parallel to plane P. The end of the first cutting edge 11 is connected to the starting end of a third inclined cutting edge 12; in other words, cutting edges 11 and 12 are adjacent to each other. Figure 6F The opening forming portion 68a extends to, for example, about 50% of the length of the blade 100. The opening forming portion 68a is on the cap 7 with an associated predetermined separation line 78a. Figure 4A , 4BMatching. In other words, the opening forming portion 68a is specifically arranged to form a circumferential notch at a first height on the sidewall 70 along a vertical axis Z that is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation R, to define the anti-pickup ring 72 and the body 71.

[0091] The blade 100 may specifically include a connecting forming portion 64a. The connecting forming portion 64a occupies an area of ​​the blade 100 that extends, for example, 10% to 15% of the blade 100's length. The connecting forming portion 64a corresponds to a clamp 74a on the cap 7. In other words, the connecting forming portion 64a is specifically arranged to create a circumferential notch in the sidewall 70 to define the connecting portion or clamp 74a between the anti-pick-up ring 72 and the body 71 during use. The connecting forming portion 64a may further specifically include a connecting forming center portion 67a, wherein a second cutting edge 22a, located on a second plane at a height above the first cutting edge 23a, overlaps the first cutting edge 23a along the vertical axis Z. For example, the connecting forming center portion 67a extends to approximately 3 / 5 of the connecting forming portion 64a. The connecting forming center portion 67a matches the corresponding center portion of the clamp 77a.

[0092] The connection forming portion 64a may further include a first joint forming portion 65a, which is specifically located upstream of the connection forming center portion 67a and includes a third cutting edge 21a inclined at a negative angle. The starting end of the third inclined cutting edge 21a is connected to the end of the second cutting edge 13, and the end of the third inclined cutting edge 21a is connected to the starting end of the first cutting edge 23a; in other words, the edges 13, 21a, and 23 are adjacent to each other. Figure 6E For example, the first connector forming central portion 65a extends to approximately 1 / 5 of the connection forming portion 64a. The connector forming portion 65a mates with the corresponding connector portion 75a on the cap 7. In other words, the first connector forming portion 65a is specifically arranged to identify the connector portion 75a during use.

[0093] The connection forming portion 64a may further include a second connector forming portion 66a, which is located downstream of the connection forming center portion 67a and includes a third inclined cutting edge 24a with a negative inclination. The starting end of the third inclined cutting edge 24a is connected to the end of the second cutting edge 22a, and the end of the third inclined cutting edge 24a is connected to the starting end of the first cutting edge 14. In other words, the cutting edges 22a, 24a, and 14 are adjacent to each other. Figure 6D For example, the connector forming portion 66a extends to approximately one-third of the connection forming portion 64a. The connector forming portion 66a mates with the corresponding connector portion 76a on the cap 7; in other words, the connector forming portion 66a is specifically arranged to identify the connector portion 76a during use.

[0094] The blade 100 may specifically include another opening forming portion 68b, including a first cutting edge 14 located on a first plane. The starting end of the first cutting edge 14 is connected to the end of a third inclined edge 24a, and the end of the first cutting edge 14 is connected to the starting end of a third inclined edge 31; in other words, the cutting edges 24a, 14, and 31 are adjacent to each other. Figure 6C and 6D For example, the other opening forming portion 68b extends to approximately 10% of the length of the blade 100. The other opening forming portion 68b matches the associated intended separation line 78b.

[0095] The blade 100 may specifically include a tongue-forming portion 69, comprising a third cutting edge 31 with a positive inclination, a fourth cutting edge 32, and a third cutting edge 21b with a negative inclination. The starting end of the fourth cutting edge 32 is connected to the end of the third inclined cutting edge 31, and the end of the second cutting edge 32 is connected to the starting end of the third inclined cutting edge 21b; in other words, the cutting edges 31, 32, and 21b are adjacent to each other. Figure 6B and 6C In other words, the tongue-forming portion 69 includes a horizontal cutting edge 32 parallel to the plane P and two inclined cutting edges 21b, 31 with opposite inclinations to each other, the horizontal cutting edge 32 and the inclined cutting edges 21b, 31 being continuously connected to each other.

[0096] The tongue-forming portion 69 mates with the tongue portion 79 on the sidewall 70. In other words, the tongue-forming portion 69 is arranged to create a notch in the sidewall 70 to define the tongue portion 79 on the body 71 during use. For example, the tongue-forming portion 69 extends to approximately 5% to 10% of the length of the blade 100.

[0097] The blade 100 may specifically include another connecting portion 64b. For example, the other connecting portion 64b extends to approximately 10% to 15% of the length of the blade 100. The other connecting portion 64b mates with an associated clamp 74b. The other connecting portion 64b may further include another connecting center portion 67b, wherein a second cutting edge 22b located on a second plane at a height above the first cutting edge 23b overlaps with the first cutting edge 23b along the vertical axis Z. For example, the other connecting center portion 67b extends to approximately 3 / 5 of the other connecting portion 64b. The other connecting center portion 67b mates with a corresponding center portion of the clamp 77b. The other connecting portion 64b may also specifically include another first joint forming portion 65b, which is specifically located upstream of the other connecting center portion 67b and includes a third cutting edge 24b with a negative inclination. The starting end of the third inclined cutting edge 21b is connected to the end of the fourth cutting edge 32, and the end of the third inclined cutting edge 21b is connected to the starting end of the first cutting edge 23b. In other words, the cutting edges 32, 21b, and 23b are adjacent to each other. Figure 6B For example, the other first connector forming portion 65b extends to approximately 1 / 5 of the other connection forming portion 64b. The other first connector forming portion 65b mates with the corresponding connector portion 75b on the cap 7. The other connection forming portion 64b may further include another second connector forming portion 66b, which is located downstream of the other connection forming center portion 67b and includes a third cutting edge 24b with a negative inclination. The starting end of the third inclination cutting edge 24b is connected to the end of the second cutting edge 22b, and the end of the third inclination cutting edge 24b is connected to the starting end of the first cutting edge 15; in other words, cutting edges 22b, 24b, and 15 are adjacent to each other. Figure 6A For example, the other second connector forming portion 66b extends to approximately 1 / 5 of the other connection forming portion 64b. The other second connector forming portion 66b mates with the corresponding connector portion 76b on the cap 7.

[0098] The blade 100 may specifically include another opening-forming portion 68c, including a first cutting edge 15 located on a first plane. The end of a cutting edge 24b having a negative inclination is connected to the starting end of the first cutting edge 15 located on the first plane. Figure 6A For example, the other opening forming portion 68c extends along the forward direction T to 10% of the length of the blade 100. The other opening forming portion 68c matches the corresponding expected departure line 78c.

[0099] Refer again Figure 3The blade 100 may specifically include a tooth-forming portion 68d, which is located downstream of the opening-forming portion 68a and upstream of the clamp-forming portion 64a. The tooth-forming portion 68d may specifically include a third cutting edge 12 and a second cutting edge 13 having a positive inclination. The end of the third inclination cutting edge 12 is connected to the starting end of the second cutting edge 13; in other words, the cutting edges 12 and 13 are adjacent to each other. Figure 6F The tooth-forming portion 68d is specifically arranged to connect the opening-forming portion 68a and the connector portion 65a, such that the opening-forming portions 68a and 68b lie on the same first plane. The tooth-forming portion 68d mates with the corresponding tooth portion 78d on the cap 7.

[0100] It should be noted that since the cutting edge arrangement 60 is suitable for cutting substantially cylindrical objects, it can have different orders of the parts of the cutting edge arrangement 60 as long as the sequence is satisfied; for example, the opening forming portions 68a and 68c of the cutting edge arrangement 60 can be incorporated into a single opening forming portion and can be arranged together as the beginning or end portion of the cutting edge arrangement 60 along the forward direction T.

[0101] In the context of this invention, the terms “start / end”, “beginning / ending”, “start / end”, “upstream / downstream” refer to the order in which the protrusions at the end of the cutting edge proceed along the forward direction T, or, in the case of a vertical cutting edge, to the order in which such ends proceed along the direction of increasing height along the vertical axis Z.

[0102] As mentioned, the cutting edge arrangement 60 may specifically have adjacent cutting edges and spaced-apart cutting edges. "Adjacent" cutting edges mean that the blades of one corresponding cutting edge and the other blade of another corresponding cutting edge are substantially continuously connected to each other in a direction parallel to direction T; "spaced-apart" cutting edges mean that the blades of one corresponding cutting edge and the other blade of another corresponding cutting edge are substantially separated from each other in a direction parallel to direction T. (See also: Special Reference) Figure 1-3 The knife 100 specifically has a first group of cutting blades including adjacent cutting blades 11, 12, 13, 21a, 23a, a second group of cutting blades including adjacent cutting blades 22a, 24a, 14, 31, 32, 21b, 23b, and a third group of adjacent cutting blades 22b, 24b, 15; these groups are spaced apart from each other.

[0103] refer to Figure 7 , 8 The blade 100' has a plate-like shape, meaning it extends primarily along two main dimensions relative to the third transverse dimension (thickness) and has a planar shape, resembling a rectangle. Figure 5The principal dimension may lie specifically on plane P, and the lateral dimension may lie specifically along the vertical axis Z and substantially orthogonal to plane P. Blade 100' has two planes that are substantially parallel to each other and parallel to plane P; bottom surface 17' and top surface 18'.

[0104] The blade 100' specifically includes a first cutting protrusion extending parallel to the horizontal plane P in the peripheral region 19'. This first cutting protrusion is specifically arranged to create a circumferential notch at a first height along the vertical axis Z on the sidewall 70 to define an anti-tampering ring 72 in the cap 7.

[0105] The first cutting protrusion specifically includes a plurality of first cutting edges 11', 15', 23a', and 23b'. These cutting edges 11', 15', 23a', and 23b' may be spaced apart from each other or adjacent to each other along the direction of travel T. Referring particularly to the second embodiment, in the blade 100', the first cutting edges 11' and 23a' are adjacent to each other, the first cutting edges 23b' and 15' are adjacent to each other, while the first cutting edges 23a' and 23b' are spaced apart from each other.

[0106] The first cutting edges 11', 15', 23a', and 23b' can be located on the same plane parallel to plane P, thus the first protrusions act as horizontal cutting tools. On a vertical axis Z orthogonal to plane P, the first plane is at a given height relative to plane P. Engaging the plurality of first cutting edges 11', 15', 23a', and 23b' yields a first basic arc curve, centered on an axis substantially orthogonal to plane P, outside the blade 100'. The first cutting protrusions are specifically arranged to facilitate the formation of hoops 74a' and 74b' on the sidewall 70 together with the second and third cutting protrusions, and to create cuts and slits separating the body 71 from the anti-pry strip 72.

[0107] The blade 100' specifically includes a second cutting protrusion extending parallel to the horizontal plane P in the peripheral region 19'. Specifically, this second cutting protrusion at least partially overlaps with the first cutting protrusion, forming a segment of a predetermined length measured along the direction of travel T. This second cutting protrusion is specifically arranged to create a circumferential notch at a second height along the vertical axis Z on the sidewall 70, and, in use, together with the first cutting protrusion, defines the connection portion between the anti-pry ring 72 and the body 71.

[0108] The second cutting edge specifically includes a plurality of second cutting edges 22a', 22b', which may be spaced apart from each other specifically along the direction of travel T.

[0109] The second cutting edges 22a' and 22b' are located on the same second plane parallel to plane P, thus the second protrusion acts as a horizontal cutting tool. By engaging multiple second cutting edges 22a' and 22b', a second basic arc curve can be obtained, the center of which is located on an axis substantially orthogonal to plane P outside the blade 100'. The second cutting protrusion is specifically arranged to facilitate the definition of hoops 74a' and 74b' on the sidewall 70 together with the first cutting protrusion during use, specifically defining the central portions 77a' and 77b' of the hoops 74a' and 74b'.

[0110] The blade 100' specifically includes a third cutting protrusion in the peripheral area 19', which is arranged to create an inclined and / or vertical notch on the sidewall 70. This third cutting protrusion is specifically arranged to facilitate the definition of hoops 74a', 74b' on the sidewall 70 during use, together with the first and / or second cutting protrusions, specifically defining the joint portions 76a', 76b' of the hoops 74a', 74b', and defining a tongue portion 79' on the sidewall 70 together with the fourth cutting protrusion.

[0111] The third cutting edge specifically includes multiple third vertical cutting edges 24a', 24b', which may be spaced apart from each other specifically along the direction of travel T.

[0112] refer to Figure 7-9 The blade 100' specifically includes a fourth cutting protrusion extending parallel to the horizontal plane P in the peripheral area 19'. This fourth cutting protrusion is specifically arranged to create a circumferential notch at a third height along the vertical axis Z on the sidewall 70, and, in use, together with the third cutting protrusion, defines a tongue portion 79' on the sidewall 70.

[0113] The fourth cutting protrusion specifically includes a horizontal fourth cutting edge 32'. The fourth cutting edge 32', or at least one point thereof, lies on a fourth basic circular arc curve, the center of which is located on a fourth axis substantially orthogonal to plane P, outside the blade 100'. The fourth curve, and therefore the fourth cutting edge 32', is located on the third plane at a height equal to or greater than that of the second cutting edges 22a', 22b'. The fourth cutting edge 32' has a longitudinal extension distance less than the circumference of the cap sidewall 70 to be machined.

[0114] Furthermore, in knife 100':

[0115] -The first axis of the first curve defined by the first cutting edges 11', 23a', 23b', and 15' of the first cutting protrusion;

[0116] -The second axis of the second curve defined by the second cutting blades 22a' and 22b' of the second cutting protrusion;

[0117] - The third axis of the third curve defined by the outer perimeter 19'; and

[0118] - The fourth axis of the fourth curve defined by the fourth cutting edge 32', which are substantially coincident with each other.

[0119] Furthermore, in blade 100', the relative positions of the following items are:

[0120] - First cutting edges 11', 23a', 23b', 15';

[0121] -Second cutting edges 22a', 22b';

[0122] -Third cutting edges 24a', 24b'; and

[0123] -Fourth cutting edge 32';

[0124] The cutting edge of the 100' blade is arranged at 60'.

[0125] As already mentioned, the first cutting blades 11', 23a', 23b', 15', the second cutting blades 22a', 22b', and the fourth cutting blade 32' are arranged at different heights along the vertical axis Z, that is, at different distances from the plane P.

[0126] refer to Figure 10A and 10B Depending on the relative positions between the cutting edges of the cutting tool, the knife 100' can form different parts on the side wall 70 of the cap 7.

[0127] The blade 100' may specifically form one or more intended separation lines 78a', 78b' on the sidewall 70, which are arranged in the same plane and obtained by making the first cutting edges 11', 15' penetrate the thickness of the sidewall 70.

[0128] The blade 100' may have one or more connecting portions or clamps 74a', 74b' specifically formed on the sidewall 70. Each clamp 74a', 74b' may further include a central portion 77a', 77b', which is obtained by penetration through the first cutting edge 23a', 23b' and the second cutting edge 22a', 22b'. Each clamp 74a', 74b' may further include a second joint portion 76a', 76b', which is obtained by penetration through the third vertical cutting edge 24a', 24b', and is specifically arranged for connecting the connecting portion 74a' to the body 71.

[0129] The blade 100' may form a tongue portion 79' on the side wall 70 due to the penetration of the third vertical cutting edge 24a', 24b and the fourth cutting edge 32', such tongue portion 79' is specifically arranged to keep the body 71 flipped relative to the anti-tamper ring 72 after the container is opened.

[0130] In detail, refer to Figure 9 Along the direction of travel T, the blade 100' may specifically include an opening forming portion 68a', including a first cutting edge 11' located on a first plane parallel to plane P. The end of the first cutting edge 11' is connected to the starting end of the first cutting edge 23a'; in other words, the cutting edges 23a' and 11' are adjacent to each other (in...). Figure 8 and 9 In the diagram, the distinction between these cutting edges is indicated by dashed lines. For example, the opening forming portion 68a' extends to approximately 30% and 45% of the length of the blade 100'. The opening forming portion 68a' matches the associated expected separation line 78a' on the cap 7. Figure 10A , 10B In other words, the opening forming portion 68a' is specifically arranged to create a circumferential notch at a first height on the sidewall 70 along a vertical axis Z that is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation R, to define the anti-pickup ring 72 and the body 71.

[0131] The blade 100' may specifically include a connecting forming portion 64a'. The connecting forming portion 64a' occupies an area of ​​the blade 100' that extends, for example, 10% to 20% of the blade 100''s length. The connecting forming portion 64a' corresponds to the clamp 74a' on the cap 7. In other words, the connecting forming portion 64a' is specifically arranged to create a circumferential notch in the sidewall 70 to define the connecting portion 74a' of the connecting anti-pick-up ring 72 and the body 71 during use. The connecting forming portion 64a' may further specifically include a connecting forming center portion 67a', wherein the first cutting edge 23a' overlaps along the vertical axis Z with a second cutting edge 22a' located on a second plane at a height higher than the first cutting edge 23a'. The second cutting edge 22a' is specifically arranged perpendicular to a third vertical cutting edge 24a'. For example, the connecting forming center portion 67a' extends to approximately 5 / 6 of the connecting forming portion 64a'. The connecting forming center portion 67a' matches the corresponding center portion of the clamp 77a'. The connection forming portion 64a' may further include a joint forming portion 66a', which is specifically located downstream of the connection forming center portion 67a' and includes a third vertical cutting edge 24a'. The joint forming portion 66a' may specifically include the distal section of a second cutting edge 22a'. The distal end of the second cutting edge 22a' connects to the intermediate section of the third cutting edge 24a', which is particularly close to the distal end of the third vertical cutting edge 24a'. The second cutting edge 22a' is specifically arranged perpendicular to the third vertical cutting edge 24a'. For example, the joint forming portion 66a' extends to approximately 1 / 6 of the connection forming portion 64a'. The joint forming portion 66a' mates with a corresponding joint portion 76a' on the cap 7. In other words, the joint forming portion 66a' is specifically arranged to identify the joint portion 76a' during use.

[0132] The blade 100' may specifically include a tongue-forming portion 69', comprising a third cutting edge 24a', a fourth cutting edge 32', and a third vertical cutting edge 24b'. The starting end of the fourth cutting edge 32' is connected to the end of the third cutting edge 24a', and the end of the fourth cutting edge 32' is connected to the starting end of the third vertical cutting edge 24b', such that the fourth cutting edge 32' is orthogonal to the third vertical cutting edges 24a' and 24b'. The ending segments of the third vertical cutting edges 24a' and 24b' are respectively connected to the end of the second cutting edge 22a' and the starting end of the second cutting edge 22b', such that the third vertical cutting edges 24a' and 24b' are orthogonal to the second cutting edges 22a' and 22b'. In other words, the tongue-forming portion 69' includes a horizontal cutting edge 32' parallel to plane P and two vertical cutting edges 24a' and 24b' parallel to each other and orthogonal to plane P, the horizontal cutting edge 32' and the vertical cutting edges 24a' and 24b' being continuously connected to each other. The tongue-forming portion 69' mates with the tongue portion 79' on the sidewall 70. In other words, the tongue-forming portion 69' is arranged to create a notch in the sidewall 70 to define the tongue portion 79' on the body 71 during use. For example, the opening-forming portion 69' extends to approximately 10% of the length of the blade 100'.

[0133] The blade 100' may specifically include another connection forming portion 64b'. For example, the other opening forming portion 64b' extends to about 10% to 20% of the length of the blade 100'. The other opening forming portion 64b' mates with an associated clamp 74b'. The other connection forming portion 64b' may further specifically include another connection forming center portion 67b', wherein the first cutting edge 23b' overlaps along the vertical axis Z with a second cutting edge 22b' at a height above the first cutting edge 23b'. For example, the other connection forming center portion 67b' extends to about 5 / 6 of the other connection forming portion 64b'. The other connection forming center portion 67b' mates with a corresponding center portion of the clamp 77b'. The connection forming portion 64b' may further specifically include another joint forming portion 66b', which is specifically located upstream of the other connection forming center portion 67b' and includes a third vertical cutting edge 24b'. The other joint forming portion 66b' may further specifically include the starting segment of the second cutting edge 22b'. The starting end of the second cutting edge 22b' is connected to the middle section of the third cutting edge 24b', which is particularly close to the end of the third vertical cutting edge 24b'. The second cutting edge 22b' is specifically arranged perpendicular to the third vertical cutting edge 24b'. For example, the other joint forming portion 66b' extends to approximately one-third of the other connection forming portion 64b'. The other joint forming portion 66b' mates with the corresponding joint portion 76b' on the cap 7.

[0134] The blade 100' may specifically include another opening-forming portion 68b', including a first cutting edge 15' located on a first plane parallel to plane P. The starting end of the first cutting edge 15' is connected to the end of the first cutting edge 23b', in other words, the cutting edges 23b' and 15' are adjacent to each other (in... Figure 8 and 9 In the diagram, the distinction between these cutting edges is indicated by dashed lines. For example, the opening forming portion 68b' extends to approximately 30 to 45% of the length of the blade 100'. The opening forming portion 68b' is on the cap 7 with the associated intended separation line 78b' ( Figure 10A , 10B )match.

[0135] The cutting edge arrangement 60' can specifically have cutting edges that are adjacent to each other and cutting edges that are spaced apart from each other.

[0136] refer to Figure 7-9 The knife 100' specifically has a first group of cutting blades including cutting blades 11' and 23a' connected to each other, a second group of cutting blades including cutting blades 22a', 24a', 32', 24b' and 22b' connected to each other, and a third group of cutting blades 23b' and 15' connected to each other; these groups are spaced apart from each other.

[0137] The blades 100 and 100' can be made in particular as a single piece, especially from a solid part, through cutting and / or milling operations.

[0138] For example, blades 100 and 100' can be obtained from a metal sheet, the outer area of ​​which can be machined with a suitable tool to obtain a cutting protrusion, a blade, and a corresponding cutting edge.

[0139] Thanks to the blade construction 100, 100', blades 100, 100' can be removed and replaced with different blades to obtain connection or hoop parts 74a, 74b of different shapes. This simplifies the cutting equipment and reduces downtime for equipping the cutting equipment with different blades.

[0140] The examples shown illustrate a notched cap with two hoops: the first example shows two hoops, both inclined negatively relative to the direction of travel T; the second example shows two hoops, one inclined negatively relative to the direction of travel T and the other inclined positively relative to the direction of travel T, as seen in the open configuration D of the cap. Those skilled in the art can readily modify the number and arrangement of the cutting edges of the blades 100, 100' to form more than two hoops, such as three or four, inclined in a negative and / or positive manner on the cap according to various combinations.

[0141] A certain number and arrangement of cutting blades, with combinations of positive and negative inclinations, can be provided to form three hoops inclined at the same angle, or one hoop with a given inclination and two consecutive hoops with opposite inclinations, or three hoops with alternating inclinations. Another different arrangement of cutting blades, with combinations of positive and negative inclinations, can also be provided to form four hoops all inclined at the same angle, or a group of two hoops with opposite inclinations, or four hoops with alternating inclinations, or three consecutive hoops with the same inclination and one hoop with opposite inclinations. Yet another arrangement of cutting blades, with combinations of positive or negative inclinations, can also be provided to form multiple hoops connecting the tamper-evident ring 72 and the body 71, specifically more than four hoops. In other words, the cutting blade arrangements 60, 60' may include other connection forming portions arranged to define multiple connection portions connecting the tamper-evident ring 72 and the body 71 in use.

[0142] A partial cutting edge arrangement can also be provided, allowing a single hoop to be formed on the sidewall of the cap 7. Specifically, a partial cutting edge arrangement comprising multiple edges of a cutting edge arrangement 60 can be provided, for example, comprising adjacent cutting edges 13, 21a, 23a and adjacent cutting edges 22a, 24a, 14 to form a single hoop, such as hoop 74a. Alternatively, a partial cutting edge arrangement comprising multiple edges of a cutting edge arrangement 60 can be provided, for example, comprising adjacent cutting edges 32, 21b, 23b and adjacent cutting edges 22b, 24b, 15 to form a single hoop, such as hoop 74b.

[0143] A partial cutting edge arrangement comprising a plurality of cutting edges arranged in a cutting edge arrangement 60' may be provided, for example, comprising adjacent cutting edges 11', 23a' and adjacent cutting edges 22a', 24', to form a single hoop, such as hoop 74a'. Alternatively, a partial cutting edge arrangement comprising a plurality of cutting edges arranged in a cutting edge arrangement 60' may be provided, for example, comprising adjacent cutting edges 15, 23b' and cutting edges 22b', 24b', to form a single hoop, such as hoop 74b'.

[0144] In order to obtain three or four connecting portions or hoops connecting the anti-pry ring 72 and the side wall 70, in addition to the inclined cutting blades 21a, 21b, 24a, 24b or the vertical blades 24a', 24b' in the third cutting protrusion, other cutting blades may be present to define the three or four connecting portions in use.

[0145] As an alternative to or supplement to the other cutting edges in the third cutting protrusion, in order to obtain three or four connecting portions, the blades 100, 100' may also include other cutting protrusions in their structure, which are arranged to cooperate with the first cutting protrusion, the second cutting protrusion, the third cutting protrusion and (if present) the other cutting edges to determine the three or four connecting portions connecting the anti-pry ring 72 and the sidewall 70 in use.

[0146] The cutting edge arrangements 60, 60' may further include other tongue-forming portions arranged to define, in use, multiple tongue portions for retaining the body 71 relative to the anti-tamper ring 72 after the container is opened. The cutting edge arrangements 60, 60' may particularly include other tongue-forming portions for defining two or three tongue portions in use.

Claims

1. A blade (100; 100') arranged to be fitted in a cutting device for obtaining slits and notches on a cap (7) made of plastic and intended to close a container, the blade (100; 100') being adapted to make notches and slits on a sidewall (70) of the cap (7) as the cap (7) moves in a forward direction (T) by rotating about its own axis of rotation (R), the blade (100; 100') comprising a cutting edge arrangement (60; 60') extending from a peripheral region (19; 19') of the blade (100; 100'), the cutting edge arrangement (60; 60') comprising: - An opening forming portion (68a; 68a') extends parallel to a horizontal plane (P) orthogonal to the axis of rotation (R), the opening forming portion (68a; 68a') being arranged to create at least one circumferential notch at a first height on the sidewall (70) along a vertical axis (Z) substantially parallel to the axis of rotation (R) to define a tamper-evident ring (72) and a body (71) in the cap (7). - At least one connection forming portion (64a; 64a') occupies a region in the blade (100; 100') extending between the first height and a second height along the vertical axis (Z) greater than the first height, the at least one connection forming portion (64a; 64a') being arranged to create at least one notch on the sidewall (70) to define at least one connection portion (74a; 74a') connecting the anti-pick-up ring (72) and the body (71); The feature is that the blade (100; 100') is composed of a single-piece structure, and the cutting edge arrangement (60; 60') is obtained in the single-piece structure.

2. The knife (100; 100') according to claim 1, wherein the connection forming portion (64a; 64a') includes a central connection forming portion (67a; 67a'), wherein a first cutting edge (23a; 23a') is parallel to the plane (P) and arranged at the first height, and wherein a second cutting edge (22a; 22a') is parallel to the plane (P) and arranged at the second height, the second cutting edge (22a; 22a') superimposed on the first cutting edge (23a; 23a'), and wherein the connection forming portion (64a; 64a') includes a joint forming portion (66a; 66a') arranged to define a connection between the connection portion (74a; 74a') and the body (71).

3. The knife (100; 100') according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cutting edge arrangement (60; 60') further includes another connection forming portion (64b; 64b'), wherein another first cutting edge (23b; 23b') is parallel to the plane (P) and wherein another second cutting edge (22b; 22b') is parallel to the plane (P), the other second cutting edge (22b; 22b') superimposed on the other first cutting edge (23b; 23b'), the other connection forming portion (64b; 64b') is arranged to define, in use, another connection portion (74b; 74b') connecting the anti-pry ring (72) and the body (71).

4. The knife (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connection forming portion (64a) includes another connector forming portion (65a) arranged to define the connection between the connection portion (74a) and the anti-pry ring (72).

5. The knife (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cutting edge arrangement (60) comprises two inclined cutting edges (21a, 31) having different inclinations from each other, the inclinations referring to a plane passing through the vertical axis (Z) and tangent to the forward direction (T) of the cap (7).

6. The knife (100; 100') according to claim 1, wherein the cutting edge arrangement (60; 60') further includes a tongue forming portion (69; 69') arranged to form at least one notch on the sidewall (70) to define the tongue portion (79; 79') on the body (71) in use, the tongue portion (79; 79') arranged to retain the body (71) flipped relative to the anti-tamper ring (72) after the container is opened.

7. The knife (100) according to claim 6, wherein the tongue forming portion (69) includes a horizontal cutting edge (32) parallel to the plane (P) and two inclined cutting edges (21b, 31) having corresponding inclinations opposite to each other, the horizontal cutting edge (32) and the inclined cutting edges (21b, 31) being continuously connected to each other, the corresponding inclinations referring to a plane passing through the vertical axis (Z) and tangent to the forward direction (T) of the cap (7).

8. The knife (100') according to claim 6, wherein the tongue forming portion (69') includes a horizontal cutting edge (32') parallel to the plane (P) and two vertical cutting edges (24a', 24b') parallel to each other and orthogonal to the plane (P), the horizontal cutting edge (32') and the vertical cutting edges (24a', 24b') being continuously connected to each other.

9. The blade (100; 100') according to claim 1, wherein the cutting edge arrangement (60; 60') further includes other connection forming portions arranged to define, in use, a plurality of connection portions connecting the anti-pry ring (72) and the body (71).

10. The knife (100; 100') according to claim 6 or 9, wherein the cutting edge arrangement (60; 60') further includes other tongue-forming portions arranged to define, in use, a plurality of tongue portions for retaining the body (71) relative to the anti-tamper ring (72) after the container is opened.

Images