Cap for a container

Abstract

The invention provides a cap (1) for a container, comprising: a body (2) configured to be coupled and uncoupled with respect to a neck of the container and comprising a side wall (21) with internal threading extending around a longitudinal axis (A), and a transverse wall (22); a tamper-evident ring (3) comprising a retaining element (31) configured to engage with a locking member on the neck of the container, and a joining portion (32) of the tamper-evident ring (3) with the cap body (2), the joining portion (32) being configured to be torn along a periphery around the longitudinal axis (A) in response to a movement of the body (2) away from the tamper-evident ring (3), wherein the cap (1) comprises a connection window (4) comprising a connection band (40) and a film (400) thinner than the connection band (40).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a lid for a container. It also relates to a method for manufacturing the lid for a container. Furthermore, it relates to a mold for manufacturing the lid for a container. Background Technology

[0002] Traditionally, container lids consist of a body and a tamper-evident ring, wherein the body is configured to engage and disengage relative to the neck of the container, and the tamper-evident ring is configured to remain anchored to the neck of the container even when the body is disengaged. The body and the tamper-evident ring are connected to each other by a connecting portion extending about the longitudinal axis of the lid and including a series of bridging or hinged elements spaced apart by windows and configured to tear open upon first unscrewing of the lid, thus indicating that the container has been opened. Examples of such lids are described, for example, in patent documents MO2010A000359A1 and MO2010A000360A1. However, these lids have the disadvantage of allowing users to discard the lid body into the environment after opening the container, thus creating a pollution problem.

[0003] In the prior art, caps are also known where the cap body remains connected to the tamper-evident ring after opening. In addition to a series of bridging elements that tear when the cap is opened, the connecting portion of these caps includes a stable connection region in which the cap body is permanently connected to the tamper-evident ring and remains connected even after the cap is opened. Therefore, in these caps, the connecting portion is not torn along the entire perimeter around the longitudinal axis, but remains intact in the stable connection region. Examples of such caps are described in patent documents US20180370701A1, US6474491B1, AU2019204356B1, US2002 / 001637A1, and WO2020 / 046849A1. These caps have several disadvantages: firstly, the stable connection region is relatively weak and can easily tear accidentally when the bottle cap is opened; secondly, when the cap is opened, the body tends to elastically return to a position interfering with the container neck, making it difficult to pour liquid from the container.

[0004] Another problem associated with this type of lid is that the stabilizing connector (i.e., the tether) that connects the lid body to the tamper-evident ring is sometimes too short, meaning that it is not long enough to allow the lid body to be fully removed from the tamper-evident ring; as a result, the lid body often gets in the way when the product is being poured out of the container.

[0005] Another drawback of these lids is that the connection area (where there is a stable connection between the lid body and the tamper-evident ring) may expose parts of the container neck, making them vulnerable to external contaminants (e.g., dust or dirt) from the container's production and sales chain. These contaminants can settle and become deeply embedded in the space between the container neck and the lid. Therefore, people drinking from the container may ingest these contaminants, raising hygiene and consumer safety concerns.

[0006] Another problem with existing solutions is the difficulty in molding caps, as the plastic material does not always fill the stable bonding areas uniformly, leading to defective caps. Therefore, the shape of the cap must reconcile the practical needs of its use with the challenges involved in manufacturing it through molding. More specifically, regarding molding, it is crucial to ensure proper filling of the mold without any obstructions or barriers hindering the flow of plastic within it. In this context, defects in the cap are known to arise from highly uneven flow filling the mold, with significant differences in temperature and / or pressure-to-volume ratios across different areas of the mold. These defects include so-called "weld lines," which form where the leading edge of the filling flow fails to fuse properly and / or backflow occurs. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a lid for a container that overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art, as well as a method and mold for manufacturing it.

[0008] The above-mentioned objectives are fully achieved by the lid, method and mold of the present invention as characterized by the appended claims.

[0009] This invention relates to a lid for a container. More specifically, it relates to a plastic lid for a container, such as a bottle for water or other beverages, an oil container, or a container for non-food liquids (e.g., liquid soap or detergent). However, the invention is also applicable to lids made of different materials, such as metal.

[0010] The container consists of a body and a threaded neck, with the body defining the internal space for containing the product.

[0011] The lid includes a body configured to engage and disengage relative to the neck of the container. The lid body includes a sidewall (or skirt) extending about a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end (the first and second ends extending in a loop around the longitudinal axis). Preferably, the sidewall has internal threads; therefore, the lid is a screw-on lid. The lid body includes a transverse wall connected to the first end of the sidewall. Preferably, the transverse wall is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0012] The lid also includes a tamper-evident ring configured to remain anchored to the neck of the container even when the body is separated from the neck. The tamper-evident ring also extends about a longitudinal axis. The tamper-evident ring includes a retaining portion configured to engage with a locking member (or annular protrusion) on the neck of the container. The tamper-evident ring includes a connecting portion that connects the tamper-evident ring to the lid body. More specifically, the connecting portion includes a plurality of spaced-apart bridging elements or hinges and a plurality of windows alternating with the bridging elements. The connecting portion is configured to tear open along its entire perimeter about the longitudinal axis in response to movement of the body away from the tamper-evident ring. It should be noted that the perimeter about the longitudinal axis is preferably circular.

[0013] It should be noted that in order to open the container, the user needs to rotate the lid (more specifically, both the lid body and the tamper-evident ring, which are connected to each other at the joint), and because the sidewalls of the lid body have internal threads that engage with corresponding threads on the neck of the container, rotating the lid causes it to move along the longitudinal axis (particularly away from the container body). The neck of the container includes an abutment member configured to abut against the retaining portion of the tamper-evident ring and prevent its displacement along the longitudinal axis (e.g., the abutment member may have the shape of an annular portion protruding from the wall of the neck of the container). Therefore, when the user rotates the lid, the lid body and the tamper-evident ring initially move along the longitudinal axis until the tamper-evident ring encounters the abutment member; thereafter, due to the force pointing along the longitudinal axis, further rotation of the lid creates tension in the joint area, which tends to displace the body from the tamper-evident ring. This tension causes the joint area to tear (in particular, the bridging element of the joint area, if present, is torn apart). Once the connecting area is torn open, the lid body can continue to rotate and move away from the tamper-evident ring until it disengages from the threads and separates from the neck of the container, while the tamper-evident ring remains connected to the neck of the container.

[0014] The lid also includes a connecting window, formed by a portion of the sidewall of the lid body, a corresponding portion of the retaining element, and an extension of the connecting portion between them. The connecting window has a first dimension along the longitudinal axis and a second dimension along its periphery around the longitudinal axis. The connecting window includes a connecting band.

[0015] Preferably, the length of the connecting strap is greater than the first dimension of the connecting window. This allows the cover to be removed from the tamper-evident ring.

[0016] In one example, the connecting strip can be entirely part of the main body (i.e., the part of the main body that helps form the connecting window). Alternatively, the connecting strip can be entirely part of the security ring (i.e., the part of the security ring that helps form the connecting window). In yet another alternative, the connecting strip can be partly part of the main body (i.e., the part of the main body that helps form the connecting window) and partly part of the security ring (i.e., the part of the security ring that helps form the connecting window).

[0017] It should be noted that when the lid is being opened, the connecting strap is subjected to mechanical stress and transitions from the first working configuration to the second working configuration. In one or more embodiments, when the lid is open, the connecting strap undergoes plastic deformation and increases in length. In this case, in both the first and second working configurations, the length of the connecting strap is greater than the first dimension of the connecting window.

[0018] The connecting strap has a first end that connects to the side wall of the main body and a second end that connects to the retaining portion of the anti-theft ring. The connecting strap also has a first side and a second side opposite to the first side.

[0019] The connecting window includes a thinner film than the connecting strip. For example, this film may be less than 0.7 mm thick, specifically less than 0.5 mm thick, preferably less than 0.3 mm thick, and even more preferably less than 0.1 mm thick (e.g., 0.03 mm or 0.05 mm). This film is adjacent to the first and second sides of the connecting strip to connect the first and second sides of the connecting strip to the corresponding portions of the cover body sidewall and the retaining element surrounding the connecting window. Preferably, the film is also thinner than the sidewall of the cover body and the portion of the retaining element surrounding the connecting window; thus, the film forms a hollow portion in the sidewall of the cover body.

[0020] Conversely, the connecting strip preferably has substantially the same thickness as the sidewall of the cover body and the portion of the retaining element surrounding the connecting window. Therefore, the connecting strip is in the form of an embossed design on a thin film.

[0021] Preferably, the connecting strip does not protrude from the side wall of the lid body; in other words, the connecting strip is substantially entirely contained within the shape of the lid. Therefore, the connecting strip is substantially invisible when the lid is viewed from above (along an observation axis parallel to the longitudinal axis).

[0022] It was observed that in one example, the film (i.e., the portion with reduced thickness compared to the connecting strip) was disposed only within the connecting window. In an alternative example, the film (i.e., one or more portions with reduced thickness compared to the connecting strip) could also be disposed outside the connecting window. Therefore, in general, the present invention is not limited to the case where the film is disposed only within the connecting window, but this is one of the possible implementations.

[0023] The lid can be positioned in a first working configuration, wherein the retaining portion of the tamper-evident ring engages with the locking member of the container neck, the lid body is connected to the connection portion of the container neck and the tamper-evident ring, and the membrane of the connection window is intact. In the first working configuration, the membrane provides a seal preventing air from passing between the external environment and the gap defined between the lid and the container neck. The lid can also be positioned in a second working configuration, wherein the retaining portion of the tamper-evident ring engages with the locking member of the container neck, the lid body is separated from the container neck, the membrane of the connection portion of the tamper-evident ring and the connection window is torn open, and the tamper-evident ring is connected to the body by a connecting strap.

[0024] Specifically, the lid is in a first working configuration before it is first opened, and in a second working configuration after it has been opened. It should be noted that in the second working configuration, the connecting portion is torn along its annular contour (except for the area where the connecting strip is located); the film is also torn. Even when the connecting area is torn, the connecting strip remains connected to both the lid body and the tamper-evident ring. Therefore, in the lid according to the invention, the function of connecting the lid body to the tamper-evident ring to prevent the lid body from contaminating the environment and the tamper-evident function of indicating that the container has been opened are two different functions performed by different parts of the lid: the connecting function is performed by the connecting strip, and the tamper-evident function is performed by the tamper-evident ring and the film.

[0025] It is important to note that tearing the film indicates that the lid (i.e., the container) has been opened for the first time; therefore, if the film is intact, the user can be assured that the container has not been opened.

[0026] Preferably, in the first working configuration, the connecting strip does not protrude from the side wall of the lid body and the retaining portion of the tamper-evident ring (because it is held by the membrane); conversely, in the second working configuration, the connecting strip protrudes from the side wall of the lid body and the retaining portion of the tamper-evident ring away from the longitudinal axis (even if the lid is closed again).

[0027] In one embodiment, the second dimension of the connecting window is larger than the first dimension of the connecting window. Preferably, the length of the connecting strip is greater than the second dimension of the connecting window. More specifically, the connecting strip may be inclined relative to the side of the connecting window; alternatively, the connecting strip may form a loop or a hairpin bend in the connecting window.

[0028] In one embodiment, the tamper-evident ring includes a fastening element and the cap body includes a protrusion extending radially away from the longitudinal axis; or conversely, the cap body includes a fastening element and the tamper-evident ring includes a protrusion extending radially away from the longitudinal axis. The fastening element and the protrusion are longitudinally aligned in a first working configuration of the cap, such that in a second working configuration of the cap, the fastening element is configured to engage with the protrusion to hold the cap body in an flipped position relative to the tamper-evident ring. Holding the cap body in the flipped position relative to the tamper-evident ring prevents the cap body from obstructing the user from pouring liquid from the container or drinking.

[0029] More specifically, in one embodiment, the fastening element may be in the form of teeth extending radially away from the longitudinal axis. In this case, the cover body may include a pair of protrusions forming a recess between them adapted to receive the teeth; alternatively, a single protrusion with a groove adapted to receive the teeth may be present.

[0030] In another embodiment, the fastening element may be in the form of a recess configured to receive the protrusion.

[0031] In one embodiment, the fastening element and protrusion are formed on the inner side of the connecting window. In another embodiment, the fastening element and protrusion are formed on the outer side of the connecting window and spaced at an angle thereto.

[0032] In one embodiment, in addition to the connecting window, the cover includes an additional connecting window, which includes an additional connecting strip. The additional connecting window and the additional connecting strip include one or more features described with respect to the connecting window and the connecting strip. Preferably, the respective second ends of the connecting strip and the additional connecting strip are located at the end of an arc of less than 180 degrees in the retaining portion of the tamper-evident ring. In other words, the respective second ends of the connecting strip and the additional connecting strip are located within the same semicircle; thus, the cover body can be removed from the tamper-evident ring and flipped relative to the semicircle.

[0033] Preferably, if both the connecting window and the additional connecting window are provided, there are also fastening elements and corresponding protrusions that are angularly spaced from the connecting window and the additional connecting window (more specifically, preferably angularly spaced from them).

[0034] Preferably, the arc in which the fastening element is disposed relative to the second end of the connecting strip and the second end of the additional connecting strip is located between the second end of the connecting strip and the second end of the additional connecting strip. Therefore, the fastening element is also located in the same semicircle as the corresponding second ends of the connecting strip and the additional connecting strip.

[0035] In one embodiment, the respective second dimensions of the connecting window and the additional connecting window are measured at least 60 degrees (or at least 55 degrees or at least 50 degrees) along an arc about the longitudinal axis. More specifically, in one embodiment, the connecting window, the additional connecting window, and the fastening element are angularly spaced from each other. In this case, the fact that the respective second dimensions of the connecting window and the additional connecting window are at least 60 degrees means that the respective second ends of the connecting window and the additional connecting window can be in the same semicircle.

[0036] The sidewalls of the cover body and the tamper-evident ring define an inner surface facing the longitudinal axis. In one or more embodiments, the connecting strip has a thickened region that protrudes radially from the inner surface at a cut plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and passing through the connecting portion. The thickened region allows the connecting area to be cut from the outside in a 360° manner. In practice, when cut from the outside, the thickened region remains at least partially intact, so that the connecting strip does not leave a loose end when the connecting area is cut.

[0037] In other embodiments where no thickness-increasing area is provided, the connecting area is selectively cut without cutting the connecting strip.

[0038] The film includes a first film portion located between a first side of the connecting strip and a corresponding portion of the cover body sidewall and the retaining element surrounding the connecting window; the film also includes a second film portion located between a second side of the connecting strip and a corresponding portion of the cover body sidewall and the retaining element surrounding the connecting window. Thus, the first and second film portions are separated by the connecting strip; theoretically, the first and second film portions can be torn apart independently of each other (although in practice, they are both torn apart when the cover is opened).

[0039] The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a lid for a container. The lid is preferably a lid according to one or more aspects of the present invention.

[0040] The method includes a forming step. In the forming step, a body of the lid is formed, configured to engage and disengage relative to the neck of the container; the lid body includes a sidewall with internal threads extending about a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end. The lid body also includes a transverse wall connected to the first end of the sidewall. In the forming step, an tamper-evident ring is also formed, configured to remain anchored to the neck of the container even when the body is separated from the neck. The tamper-evident ring includes a retaining portion configured to engage a locking member on the neck of the container, and a connecting portion connecting the tamper-evident ring to the lid body. The connecting portion is configured to tear open along its entire periphery about the longitudinal axis in response to movement of the body away from the tamper-evident ring.

[0041] The forming step also creates a connecting window, which is formed by a portion of the sidewall of the lid body, a corresponding portion of the retaining element, and an extension of the connecting portion between them. The connecting window has a first dimension along the longitudinal axis and a second dimension along its periphery around the longitudinal axis. A connecting strip is defined within the connecting window. The length of the connecting strip is greater than the first dimension of the connecting window, and the connecting strip is connected to the sidewall of the lid body and the retaining portion of the tamper-evident ring at a first end and a second end, respectively. The connecting strip is also separated from (or connected to) the remaining area of ​​the sidewall of the lid body and the remaining area of ​​the retaining portion of the tamper-evident ring by a thin film, which is thinner than the connecting strip and adjacent to the first and second sides of the connecting strip, to connect the first and second sides of the connecting strip to the sidewall of the lid body and the corresponding portion of the retaining element surrounding the connecting window.

[0042] In one embodiment, the forming step is performed entirely by (injection or compression) molding; therefore, during (injection or compression or injection compression or other methods) molding, the connecting strip and film are integrally formed with the body and the tamper-evident ring. It should be noted that the shape of the cap of the present invention reconciles the needs of practical use of the cap with the need for proper mold filling. Therefore, the shape of the cap of the present invention allows for the manufacture of high-quality caps that are substantially free of defects.

[0043] More specifically, the forming step may include moving the upper and lower units toward each other along the longitudinal axis to define a forming cavity. The forming step may also include moving a drawer, in which a groove is formed on its top surface, in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis. This transverse direction is preferably oriented radially relative to the longitudinal axis; thus, the drawer moves toward the longitudinal axis. When the upper unit, lower unit, and drawer are brought close together in the mold-closed position, the top surface of the drawer defines the outer side of the connecting window.

[0044] Preferably, the movement of the drawer is mechanically synchronized with the movement of the upper and / or lower unit. For this purpose, moving the upper or lower unit causes the drawer to move. More specifically, the drawer has a shaped portion configured to interact with a corresponding shape-matching portion of the upper or lower unit, such that longitudinal movement of the upper or lower unit toward the closing structure of the mold causes lateral movement of the drawer toward the closing structure of the mold. Thus, the drawer moves from a retracted position to a forward position in the lateral (i.e., radial) direction along the longitudinal axis; preferably, the drawer reaches the forward position when the upper unit contacts the lower unit.

[0045] Regarding the irregularly shaped portion of the drawer, in an example embodiment, it may have a truncated conical shape or a shape having at least one truncated conical generatrix, to contact a corresponding shape-matching portion that also has a truncated conical shape or a shape having at least one truncated conical generatrix. In another example embodiment, the irregularly shaped portion may have a wedge shape including at least one inclined planar surface, to contact a corresponding shape-matching portion that also has a wedge shape including at least one inclined planar surface.

[0046] Therefore, the movement of the drawer is synchronized with the movement of the upper and lower units, so that the filling begins to be pressed into the mold before the drawer completes its forward movement toward the closed position of the mold.

[0047] Preferably, in the forming step, the following parts are also produced:

[0048] - Fastening elements (e.g., shaped like recesses or teeth) in the lid body;

[0049] - A protrusion (or a pair of protrusions) in the anti-theft ring extends radially away from the longitudinal axis.

[0050] Alternatively, in the forming step, the following is also produced:

[0051] - A protrusion (or a pair of protrusions) in the body of the lid, which extends radially from the longitudinal axis;

[0052] - Fastening elements in the anti-theft ring (e.g., shaped like a recess or teeth).

[0053] In both cases, the fastening element and the protrusion are positioned relative to each other such that the fastening element can engage with the protrusion to hold the cover body in a flipped position relative to the tamper-evident ring. More specifically, the fastening element and the protrusion are longitudinally aligned.

[0054] In one embodiment, during the forming step, an additional connecting window including an additional connecting strip is created; preferably, the corresponding second ends of the connecting strip and the additional connecting strip are located at the end of an arc of less than 180 degrees in the retaining portion of the tamper-evident ring. A fastening element is positioned between the second ends relative to this arc.

[0055] After the forming step, the method may further include the step of cutting a notch along at least one extension of the connecting portion of the tamper-evident ring.

[0056] The cut is formed by a cutting device that can be configured to cut the connecting area from the inside or outside of the lid. Preferably, the cut is made from the outside (i.e., using a cutting device surrounding the sidewall of the lid body).

[0057] In one embodiment, the cut is formed by cutting along the entire periphery of the connecting portion from the outside; in this case, the sidewalls of the cover body and the tamper-evident ring define an inner surface facing the longitudinal axis, and the connecting strip has a thickness-increasing region that protrudes radially from the inner surface at a cut plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and passing through the connecting portion; the thickness-increasing region is at least partially unaffected by the cut. Therefore, the thickness-increasing region of the connecting strip remains intact even after the cut is made. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the cut made from the outside is an alternating cut, for example, alternating multiple small windows with multiple bridging elements; the bridging elements constitute the connecting portion (other than the connecting area formed by the thickness-increasing region) that connects the cover body and the tamper-evident ring.

[0058] In another embodiment, the cut is selectively formed by interrupting the cut at least in the portion of the connecting strip located in the connecting area. In this case, there is no need for a thickness-increasing area. If a laser device is used for cutting, the cut can be easily interrupted. Furthermore, in this case, the cut can be made by cutting from the inside or the outside.

[0059] In other embodiments, the weak areas are formed during molding (e.g., in injection molding, windows and bridging elements can be made using molds of a specific shape).

[0060] The present invention also relates to a mold for manufacturing a lid. The lid is preferably a lid according to one or more aspects of the present invention.

[0061] The mold can move between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the closed configuration, the mold defines a forming cavity. In the open configuration, the mold is configured to allow the lid to be removed.

[0062] The formed cavity includes a side hollow portion. The side hollow portion includes a main body region having internal threads and extending about a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end. The side hollow portion includes a connecting region extending about the longitudinal axis and connecting to the second end of the main body region. The side hollow portion includes an anti-theft region extending about the longitudinal axis and connecting to the connecting region. Therefore, the connecting region is located between the main body region and the anti-theft region. The connecting region defines a first channel between the main body region and the anti-theft region. The main body region is configured to form a sidewall of the body of the cover; the connecting region is configured to form a connecting portion of the anti-theft ring; the anti-theft region is configured to form a retaining portion of the anti-theft ring.

[0063] The shaped cavity includes a transverse hollow portion connected to a first end of the main body region of the side hollow portion. The transverse hollow portion is configured to form the transverse wall of the main body of the lid.

[0064] The formed cavity also includes a connection area formed by corresponding portions of the cover body, the connecting area, and the anti-theft area. The connection area includes the connecting portion and a thickness-reducing area surrounding the connecting portion.

[0065] The connecting region is configured to form a connecting window. The connecting portion is configured to form a connecting band. The thickness-reducing portion is configured to form a thin film.

[0066] The mold includes an upper unit and a lower unit, which are movable relative to each other along a longitudinal axis between spaced-out positions (to define the mold's open configuration) and close-to-close positions (to define the mold's closed configuration).

[0067] The mold includes a drawer with a groove formed in its top surface. The drawer is movable in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis such that when the mold is in a closed position with the upper unit, lower unit, and drawer close together, the top surface of the drawer defines the outer side of the connecting area of ​​the forming cavity. The transverse direction is preferably radial relative to the longitudinal axis; therefore, during mold closure, the drawer moves from a retracted position toward the longitudinal axis to an advancing position.

[0068] As described above, the drawer preferably has an irregularly shaped portion configured to interact with a corresponding shape-matching portion of the upper or lower unit, such that longitudinal movement of the upper or lower unit toward the closing structure of the mold causes lateral movement of the drawer toward the closing structure of the mold. Therefore, the drawer does not require a dedicated actuator but is driven by the movement of the upper or lower unit of the mold. This simplifies mold construction and management.

[0069] In one embodiment, the mold includes an additional drawer with a groove formed in its top surface, and the additional drawer is movable in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis such that when the mold is in a closed position with the upper unit, lower unit, and additional drawer close together, the top surface of the additional drawer defines the outer side of an additional connection area (configured to form an additional connection window). More specifically, the additional drawer is configured to create an additional connection window, including an additional connection strip and an additional membrane.

[0070] In one embodiment, the mold includes an auxiliary drawer movable laterally about the longitudinal axis, such that when the mold is in a closed position with the upper unit, lower unit, and auxiliary drawer close together, the top surface of the auxiliary drawer defines the outer side of a portion of the forming cavity to form at least one protruding region and one irregular region within the forming cavity; in one embodiment, the irregular region is also protruding, thus the auxiliary drawer is configured to form a first and a second protruding region within the forming cavity. Therefore, the auxiliary drawer is configured to form a fastening element, and the protrusions are configured to engage with the fastening element to hold the lid in a flipped position. The fastening element may include teeth; in this case, the irregular region in the forming cavity is protruding.

[0071] In one embodiment, a fastening element and a protrusion configured to engage with the fastening element are formed on the inside of the connecting window; in this case, the drawer is configured to also form at least one protruding area and an irregularly shaped area.

[0072] The drawer is movable along a first transverse axis oriented radially relative to the longitudinal axis. If an additional drawer is provided, it is movable along a second transverse axis, also radially oriented relative to the longitudinal axis. If an auxiliary drawer is provided, it is movable along a third transverse axis, also radially oriented relative to the longitudinal axis. Preferably, the third transverse axis is located between the first and second transverse axes and is angularly equidistant from them. More specifically, in one embodiment, the first, second, and third transverse axes are angularly spaced about the longitudinal axis.

[0073] Additional drawers and / or auxiliary drawers may include one or more features of a drawer; more specifically, additional drawers and / or auxiliary drawers may include corresponding irregular portions configured to interact with corresponding shape-matching portions of the upper or lower unit, such that longitudinal movement of the upper or lower unit toward the closing structure of the mold causes lateral movement of the additional drawers and / or auxiliary drawers toward the closing structure of the mold.

[0074] Regarding the irregularly shaped portions of auxiliary drawers and / or additional drawers, in an example embodiment, they may have a truncated conical shape or a shape having at least one truncated conical generatrix to contact a corresponding shape-matching portion that also has a truncated conical shape or a shape having at least one truncated conical generatrix. In another example embodiment, the irregularly shaped portion may have a wedge shape including at least one inclined planar surface to contact a corresponding shape-matching portion that also has a wedge shape including at least one inclined planar surface. Attached Figure Description

[0075] These and other features will become clearer from the following description of the preferred embodiments shown by way of non-limiting example in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0076] - Figure 1 This invention illustrates one embodiment of the lid in a first working configuration;

[0077] - Figure 1A It shows Figure 1 The lid is located in the details of the second working structure;

[0078] - Figure 1B It shows Figure 1 The details of the cross-section of the lid;

[0079] - Figure 2 Another embodiment of the lid of the present invention in the first working configuration is shown;

[0080] - Figure 2A It shows Figure 2 The lid is located in the details of the second working structure;

[0081] - Figure 2B It shows Figure 2 The details of the cross-section of the lid;

[0082] - Figure 3 The mold of the present invention is shown in its working position;

[0083] Figures 4A and 4B show... Figure 3 Cross-sectional views of the mold's drawer and auxiliary drawer in the open and closed positions;

[0084] Figures 5A and 5B show respectively... Figure 3 Top views of the mold's drawers, additional drawers, and auxiliary drawers in their open and closed positions;

[0085] - Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 Another embodiment of the lid of the present invention is shown;

[0086] - Figure 12A , Figure 12B and Figure 12C The mold of the present invention is shown in a series of instants during its closing process. Detailed Implementation

[0087] Referring to the attached figure, reference numeral 1 indicates the lid (or cover) of the container.

[0088] The lid 1 includes a body 2. The body 2 is configured to engage with the neck of a container to close the container and disengage from the neck to open the container. The body 2 includes a sidewall 21 with internal threads (i.e., including internal threads) to connect to a corresponding thread on the neck of the container. The sidewall 21 extends about a longitudinal axis A. The sidewall 21 is radially symmetrical about the longitudinal axis A. The sidewall 21 has a first end in an annular shape and a second end in an annular shape opposite the first end. The body 2 includes a transverse wall 22 oriented transversely to the sidewall and connected to the first end of the sidewall 21. The transverse wall 22 is circular in shape.

[0089] The lid 1 includes an anti-theft ring 3. The anti-theft ring 3 is configured to remain anchored to the neck of the container even when the lid body 2 is separated from the neck. The anti-theft ring 3 includes a retaining portion 31 configured to engage with a locking member on the neck of the container; the retaining portion 31 is annular in shape. The anti-theft ring 3 includes a connecting portion 32 that connects the anti-theft ring 3 to the lid body 2. The connecting portion 32 includes a plurality of bridging or hinges that connect the retaining portion 31 to the transverse wall 21. These bridging portions are spaced apart from each other by corresponding windows. The connecting portion 32 is configured to be torn open along the entire (circular) periphery around the longitudinal axis A in response to movement of the body 2 away from the anti-theft ring 3 (due to unscrewing the threads on the side wall 21 of the body 2 from the threads on the neck of the container).

[0090] The cover 1 also includes a connecting window 4, which is formed by a portion of the sidewall 21 of the cover body 2, a corresponding portion of the retaining element 31, and an extension of the connecting portion 32 between them. The connecting window 4 has a first dimension L1 along the longitudinal axis A and a second dimension L2 along the periphery surrounding the longitudinal axis A. Preferably, the second dimension L2 is larger than the first dimension L1.

[0091] The connecting window 4 includes a connecting strip 40. Preferably, the length of the connecting strip 40 is greater than the first dimension L1 of the connecting window 4. Preferably, the length of the connecting strip 40 is greater than the second dimension L2 of the connecting window 4.

[0092] The connecting strap 40 extends between a first end 41 connected to the side wall 21 of the main body 2 and a second end 42 connected to the retaining portion 31 of the anti-theft ring 3. The connecting strap 40 has a first side 43 and a second side 44 opposite to the first side 43.

[0093] The connecting window 4 includes a thin film 400. Compared to the connecting strip 40, the thin film 400 has a reduced thickness; the thin film 400 is adjacent to the first side 43 and the second side 44 of the connecting strip 40, and connects the first side 43 and the second side 44 of the connecting strip 40 to the corresponding portions of the side wall 21 of the cover body 2 and the corresponding portions of the retaining element 31 surrounding the connecting window 4.

[0094] More specifically, in one or more embodiments, the film 400 includes a first film portion 400A, which is connected to a first side surface 43 of the connecting strip 4 and a corresponding portion of the side wall 21 of the cover body 2 and a corresponding portion of the retaining element 31 surrounding the connecting window 4. The film 400 also includes a second film portion 400B, which is connected to a second side surface of the connecting strip 40 and a corresponding portion of the side wall 21 of the cover body 2 and a corresponding portion of the retaining element 31 surrounding the connecting window 4.

[0095] In one or more embodiments, the connection window 4 includes a plurality of connection strips 40 (e.g., a first connection strip and a second connection strip 40) connected to the film 400 (more specifically, to the first film portion 400A and the second film portion 400B). When they are arranged, the first connection strip 40 and the second connection strip 40 are preferably symmetrical about a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the connection window 4.

[0096] Each connecting strip 40 may have an annular or hairpin-shaped bend within the connecting window 4; more specifically, each connecting strip may include a first straight extension segment starting from a first end 41, a second straight extension segment reaching a second end, and a curved region between the first and second straight extension segments. With the first and second connecting strips 40 provided, the corresponding curved regions may be located at opposite ends of the connecting window 4 relative to its longitudinal axis; in another embodiment, the first end and the second end may be located at opposite ends of the connecting window 4 relative to its longitudinal axis.

[0097] Preferably, the cover 1 includes a fastening element and a protrusion 52 extending radially away from the longitudinal axis A. In one embodiment, the fastening element is disposed in the tamper-evident ring 3 and the protrusion 52 is disposed in the cover body 2; in another embodiment, the fastening element is disposed in the cover body 2 and the protrusion 52 is disposed in the tamper-evident ring 3. The fastening element is configured to releasably engage with the protrusion 52 to hold the cover body 2 in a flipped position relative to the tamper-evident ring 3.

[0098] More specifically, in one embodiment, the fastening element defines a recess 510 (or hollow portion) configured to receive the protrusion 52. In another embodiment, the fastening element includes teeth 51 and the protrusion 52 defines a recess (e.g., a cap may include a pair of protrusions 52 defining a recess between them), wherein the recess of the protrusion 52 is configured to receive and retain the teeth 51.

[0099] In one embodiment, fastening elements 51, 510 and protrusion 52 are formed on the inner side of the connecting window 4. In another embodiment, fastening elements 51, 510 and protrusion 52 are formed on the outer side of the connecting window 4 (at a certain distance).

[0100] In one embodiment, the cover includes an additional connecting window 4A, which includes an additional connecting strip and an additional membrane. The corresponding second ends 42 of the connecting strip 40 and the additional connecting strip (connected to the tamper-evident ring 3) are located at the end of an arc of less than 180 degrees (preferably less than 160 degrees) in the retaining portion 31 of the tamper-evident ring 3. Fastening elements 51, 510 (or alternatively, protrusions 52) are positioned relative to this arc between the second ends.

[0101] Preferably, the corresponding second dimensions L2 of the connecting window 4 and the additional connecting window 4A are each measured at least 60 degrees along the arc "α" around the longitudinal axis A.

[0102] It should be noted that the sidewall 21 of the lid body 2 and the anti-theft ring 3 define the inner surface S facing the longitudinal axis A. In one or more embodiments, the connecting strip 4 has a thickness-increasing region 45 that protrudes radially from the inner surface S at a cutting plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis A and passing through the connecting portion 32. Therefore, the inner wall S has a protrusion at the thickness-increasing region 45. Thus, the inner wall S is not radially symmetrical. Due to the thickness-increasing region 45, the connecting strip 4 remains intact even when the connecting portion 32 is cut from the outside of the lid 1.

[0103] The present invention also provides a mold 6 for forming the lid 1.

[0104] The mold 6 includes an upper unit 61 and a lower unit 62, which are movable toward and away from each other along an axis of the mold 6, which is operatively (when the cover 1 is formed in the mold 6) coincides with a longitudinal axis A. More specifically, the upper unit 61 and the lower unit 62 are movable between a spaced-apart position (to define an open configuration of the mold 6) and a position close together (to define a closed configuration of the mold 6).

[0105] The lower unit 62 includes (or defines) a cavity. The cavity is configured to receive a charge 9 of extruded thermoplastic material.

[0106] The upper unit 61 includes a core 611. The core 611 is configured to pass through the cavity of the lower unit 62 when the mold 6 is in the closed configuration.

[0107] More specifically, the core 611 includes an inner core 611A, a central core 611B, and an outer core 611C. The outer core 611C surrounds the central core 611B, which in turn surrounds the inner core 611A. The inner core 611A, the central core 611B, and the outer core 611C are movable relative to each other along the longitudinal axis A; more specifically, in a possible embodiment, the inner core 611A and the outer core 611C are stationary, while the central core 611B is movable.

[0108] The upper unit 61 also includes a puller 612 that surrounds the core 611 and is movable relative to the core 611 (i.e., relative to the inner core 611A, the central core 611B, and the outer core 611C) along the longitudinal axis A. The central core 611B includes a plurality of recesses configured to form internal threads on the sidewalls of the cover.

[0109] In the sequence of opening mold 1, all components except the outer core 611C and inner core 611A move downwards first (effectively equivalent to the outer core 611C and inner core 611A moving upwards); during this stage, the center core 611B and the cavity of the lower unit 62 remain adhered to the cover 1. Then, a specific actuator moves the lower unit 62 downwards away from the upper unit 61 and the cover 1, thereby releasing the outer wall of the cover 1; during this stage, the center core 611B remains adhered to the inner wall of the cover 1. Next, the puller 612 moves downwards and, in contact with the upper edge of the cover 1, pulls the cover 1 downwards. First, the cover 1, pushed downwards by the puller 612, pulls the center core 611B along with it until the center core 611B reaches the stop shoulder (e.g., defined by the stationary inner core 611A). When the center core 611B reaches the stop shoulder, the puller 612 continues to move downward and (if necessary, with the help of compressed air injected between the inner core 611A and the center core 611B) elastically deforms the side wall of the cover 1 until the internal thread is pulled out of the recess of the center core 611B and the inner wall of the cover 1 is released.

[0110] To form the connecting window 4, the mold 6 includes a drawer 63. The drawer 63 is movable along a first transverse axis T1 oriented radially relative to the longitudinal axis A. The drawer 63 (at its end facing the longitudinal axis A) has a top surface in which a groove is formed. When the mold 6 is in a closed position with the upper unit 61, lower unit 62, and drawer 63 close together, the top surface of the drawer 63 defines the outer side of the connecting region 73 of the forming cavity 7; the connecting region 73 is configured to form the connecting window 4.

[0111] In the illustrated embodiment, drawer 63 has a shaped portion 630 configured to interact with a corresponding portion of the upper unit 61 (specifically, the pull-out 612), such that longitudinal movement of the upper unit 61 toward the closing structure of the mold 6 causes lateral movement of drawer 63 toward the closing structure of the mold 6. Therefore, drawer 63 is supported by the lower unit 62 but moved by the upper unit 61.

[0112] More specifically, the lid 1 includes an elastic device (e.g., one or more springs) associated with the drawer 63 and configured to push the drawer 63 away from the longitudinal axis A toward its retracted position. When the irregular portion 630 contacts the upper unit 61, the upper unit 61 applies a force to the drawer 63, which moves it toward the forward position toward the longitudinal axis A and overcomes the force of one or more springs.

[0113] To form the additional connection window 4A, the mold 6 includes an additional drawer 65. The additional drawer 65 is movable along a second transverse axis T2 oriented radially relative to the longitudinal axis A. The additional drawer 65 (at its end facing the longitudinal axis A) has a top surface in which a groove is formed. When the mold 6 is in a closed position where the upper unit 61, the lower unit 62, and the additional drawer 65 are close together, the top surface of the additional drawer 65 defines the outer side of the additional connection region 74 of the forming cavity 7; the additional connection region 74 is configured to form the additional connection window 4A.

[0114] The additional drawer 65 also has an irregular portion that is configured to interact with the corresponding portion of the upper unit 61, such that longitudinal movement of the upper unit 61 toward the closing structure of the mold 6 causes lateral movement of the additional drawer 65 toward the closing structure of the mold 6.

[0115] More specifically, the lid 1 includes an elastic device (e.g., one or more springs) associated with the additional drawer 65 and configured to push the additional drawer 65 away from the longitudinal axis A toward its retracted position. When the irregular portion of the additional drawer contacts the upper unit 61, the upper unit 61 applies a force to the additional drawer 65, which moves it toward the forward position toward the longitudinal axis A and overcomes the force of one or more springs.

[0116] To form fastening elements 51, 510 and protrusion 52 (if they are located outside the connecting window 4), the mold 6 may include an auxiliary drawer 64 movable along a third transverse axis T3 transverse to the longitudinal axis A; when the mold 6 is in a closed position with the upper unit 61, lower unit 62 and auxiliary drawer 64 close together, the top surface of the auxiliary drawer 64 defines the outer side of a portion of the forming cavity 7 to form at least one protruding region and one irregular region in the forming cavity 7 (the protruding region is configured to form protrusion 52, and the irregular region is configured to form fastening elements 51, 510).

[0117] The auxiliary drawer 64 also has an irregularly shaped portion that is configured to interact with the corresponding portion of the upper unit 61, such that longitudinal movement of the upper unit 61 toward the closing structure of the mold 6 causes lateral movement of the auxiliary drawer 64 toward the closing structure of the mold 6.

[0118] More specifically, the lid 1 includes an elastic device (e.g., one or more springs) associated with the auxiliary drawer 64 and configured to push the auxiliary drawer 64 away from the longitudinal axis A toward its retracted position. When the irregular portion of the auxiliary drawer contacts the upper unit 61, the upper unit 61 applies a force to the drawer 64, which moves it toward the forward position toward the longitudinal axis A and overcomes the force of one or more springs.

[0119] Preferably, the third transverse axis T3 is located between the first transverse axis T1 and the second transverse axis T2 and is angularly equidistant from the first transverse axis T1 and the second transverse axis T2.

[0120] In one embodiment, the first transverse axis T1, the second transverse axis T2, and the third transverse axis T3 are spaced apart at equal angles around the longitudinal axis A. In other embodiments, the angle between the third transverse axis T3 and the first transverse axis T1 is equal to the angle between the third transverse axis T3 and the second transverse axis T2, but less than the angle between the first transverse axis T1 and the second transverse axis T2.

[0121] The interior of the mold 6 defines a forming cavity 7 for forming the lid 1 from the filling material 9. The forming cavity 7 includes a side hollow portion 71 extending about a longitudinal axis A and a transverse hollow portion 72, the transverse hollow portion 72 being oriented transversely to the side hollow portion 71 and connected to one end of the side hollow portion 71. The transverse hollow portion 72 is configured to form a transverse wall 22 of the lid 1. The side hollow portion 71 includes a main body region 711, a connecting region 712, and an anti-theft region 713. The main body region 711, the connecting region 712, and the anti-theft region 713 each extend about the longitudinal axis A (and are therefore annular in shape). The connecting region 712 is located between the main body region 711 and the anti-theft region 713. The main body region 711 has a first end connected to the transverse hollow portion 712 and a second end connected to the connecting region 712. It should be noted that the connecting region 712 is configured to form the connecting portion 32 of the cover 1; the connecting region 712 is configured to produce a pre-weakened portion in the connecting region 712, or the pre-weakened portion is produced after forming (e.g., using a cutting device).

[0122] The shaped cavity 7 also includes a connecting region 73, which is formed by the corresponding portions of the lid body region 711, the connecting region 712, and the anti-theft region 713 facing the drawer 63. The connecting region 73 includes a connecting portion (configured to form a connecting strip 4) and a thickness-reducing region surrounding the connecting portion (configured to form a thin film 400).

[0123] The shaped cavity 7 may also include an additional connection area 74 formed by the corresponding portions of the lid body region 711, the connecting region 712, and the anti-theft region 713 facing the additional drawer 65. The additional connection area 74 includes a connecting portion (configured to form an additional connecting strip) and a thickness-reducing region surrounding the connecting portion (configured to form an additional membrane).

[0124] The shaped cavity 7 may also include irregular and protruding areas formed by the corresponding portions of the lid body area 711, the connecting area 712, and the anti-theft area 713 facing the auxiliary drawer 64.

[0125] In one embodiment (not shown), mold 1 includes a plunger associated with a lower unit 62. The plunger is movable relative to the lower unit 62 between a retracted position and an advanced position. In the retracted position, the plunger acts together with the lower unit 62 to form a cavity for receiving the charge 9, while in the advanced position, the plunger at least partially occupies the cavity defined by the lower unit 62. The plunger is movable along a corresponding axis, which may be parallel or transverse to the longitudinal axis A. Mold 1 may also include a thrust actuator connected to the plunger to move it from the retracted position to the advanced position, thereby extruding the charge 9 and forcing plastic material to occupy the forming space 7. Instead of providing an actuator, the plunger may also be moved by the action of relative movement between the lower and upper units (via a specific shaped portion).

[0126] In this case, the step of forming the lid will include the following sub-steps:

[0127] - Position at least a portion of the charge 9 in the forming cavity;

[0128] - Close mold 1 to form a closed forming space defined by upper unit 61 and lower unit 62; the steps of closing mold include moving the lower unit and upper unit toward each other and simultaneously advancing drawer 63 (and, if provided, additional drawer 65 and / or auxiliary drawer 64) from the retracted position to the corresponding advance position.

[0129] - Move the plunger from the retracted position to the forward position to squeeze the charge 9, thereby forcing the plastic material to occupy the forming space.

[0130] The movement of the plunger can be synchronized with the movement of the upper unit 61 and the lower unit 62 (and therefore with the movement of the drawer 63, the additional drawer 65 and / or the auxiliary drawer 64) toward each other, or it can be performed after the upper unit 61 and the lower unit 62 have moved.

Claims

1. A lid for a container, comprising: - A main body, configured to connect and disconnect relative to the neck of the container, and comprising Sidewalls, having internal threads and extending about a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end, and A transverse wall, which is connected to the first end of the side wall; - An anti-theft ring, configured to remain anchored to the neck of the container even when the body of the lid is separated from the neck, and includes The retaining portion is configured to engage with a locking member on the neck of the container, and The tamper-evident ring is connected to the body of the cover in a connecting portion, which is configured to be torn open along the periphery around the longitudinal axis in response to movement of the body away from the tamper-evident ring. The feature is that it includes a connecting window formed by a portion of a sidewall of the body of the cover, a corresponding portion of the retaining portion, and an extension of the connecting portion between them, wherein the connecting window has a first dimension along the longitudinal axis and a second dimension along the periphery surrounding the longitudinal axis, and wherein the connecting window includes: A connecting strap with a length greater than a first dimension of the connecting window, the connecting strap having a first end (41) connected to a side wall of the body of the cover, a second end connected to a retaining portion of the anti-theft ring, a first side surface, and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface; and A thin film, reduced in thickness compared to the connecting strip, and adjacent to the first and second sides of the connecting strip, connects the first and second sides of the connecting strip to corresponding portions of the sidewalls of the body of the cover and to corresponding portions of the retaining portion surrounding the connecting window. Therefore, the lid can be positioned as follows: In a first working configuration, the retaining portion of the anti-theft ring engages with the locking member of the neck of the container, the body of the lid is connected to the neck of the container, and the connecting portion of the anti-theft ring and the membrane of the connecting window are intact. The second working configuration wherein the retaining portion of the anti-theft ring engages with the locking member of the neck of the container, the body of the lid is separated from the neck of the container, the connecting portion of the anti-theft ring and the film of the connecting window are torn apart, and the anti-theft ring is connected to the body of the lid via the connecting strap.

2. The lid according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second size of the connection window is larger than the first size of the connection window.

3. The lid according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The tamper-evident ring includes a fastening element and the body of the cover includes a protrusion extending radially away from the longitudinal axis, or conversely, the body of the cover includes a fastening element and the tamper-evident ring includes a protrusion extending radially away from the longitudinal axis. The fastening element and the protrusion are longitudinally aligned in the first working configuration of the lid, such that in the second working configuration of the lid, the fastening element is configured to engage with the protrusion to hold the body of the lid in a flipped position relative to the tamper-evident ring.

4. The lid according to claim 3, characterized in that, The fastening element is in the form of teeth extending radially away from the longitudinal axis, and the body of the cover includes a pair of protrusions that define a recess therebetween for receiving the teeth.

5. The lid according to claim 3, characterized in that, In addition to the aforementioned connecting window, an additional connecting window is also included, the additional connecting window including an additional connecting strip, wherein the connecting strip and the corresponding second ends of the additional connecting strip are disposed at the end of an arc of less than 180 degrees in the retaining portion of the anti-theft ring, and wherein the fastening element is located between the second ends relative to the arc.

6. The lid according to claim 5, characterized in that, The corresponding second dimensions of the connecting window and the additional connecting window are each at least 60 degrees, measured along an arc (α) around the longitudinal axis.

7. The lid according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sidewalls of the body of the cover and the anti-theft ring define an inner surface facing the longitudinal axis, and the connecting strip has a thickness-increasing region that protrudes radially from the inner surface at a cut plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and passing through the connecting portion.

8. The lid according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The thin film includes: - A first film portion, which is located between a first side of the connecting strip and a corresponding portion of the side wall of the body of the cover and a corresponding portion of the retaining portion surrounding the connecting window; - A second film portion, which is located between the second side of the connecting strip and a corresponding portion of the side wall of the body of the cover and a corresponding portion of the retaining portion surrounding the connecting window.

9. The lid according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The length of the connecting strip is greater than the second dimension of the connecting window.

10. A method for manufacturing a lid for a container, comprising a step of forming in a mold, wherein the following portion is produced: - A main body, configured to connect and disconnect relative to the neck of the container, and comprising Sidewalls, having internal threads and extending about a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end, and A transverse wall, which is connected to the first end of the side wall; - An anti-theft ring, configured to remain anchored to the neck of the container even when the body of the lid is separated from the neck, and includes The retaining portion is configured to engage with a locking member on the neck of the container, and The tamper-evident ring is connected to the body of the cover in a connecting portion, which is configured to be torn open along the periphery around the longitudinal axis in response to movement of the body away from the tamper-evident ring. Its features are, The forming step creates a connecting window formed by a portion of the sidewall of the body of the lid, a corresponding portion of the retaining portion, and an extension of the connecting portion between them. The connecting window has a first dimension along the longitudinal axis and a second dimension along its periphery around the longitudinal axis. The connecting window defines a connecting band within itself, the connecting band having a length greater than the first dimension of the connecting window, and connecting to the sidewall of the body of the lid and the retaining portion of the tamper-evident ring at a first end and a second end, respectively. The band is separated from the remaining areas of the sidewall of the body of the lid and the retaining portion of the tamper-evident ring by a thin film, the film being thinner than the connecting band and adjacent to a first and second side of the connecting band to connect the first and second side of the connecting band to the corresponding portions of the sidewall of the body of the lid and the retaining portion surrounding the connecting window.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The forming step includes: - Move the upper and lower units toward each other along the longitudinal axis to define the shaped cavity; - The drawer is moved in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis, and a groove is formed in the top surface of the drawer. When the mold is in a closed position where the upper unit, the lower unit, and the drawer are close together, the top surface of the drawer defines the outer side of the connecting window.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The movement of the drawer is mechanically synchronized with the movement of the upper unit and / or the lower unit, and the movement of the upper unit or the lower unit also causes the drawer to move.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The movement of the drawer is synchronized with the movement of the upper and lower units, such that the material begins to be pressed into the mold before the drawer completes its forward movement toward the closed position of the mold.

14. The method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The forming step also produces the following parts: - Fastening elements in the body of the lid; - A protrusion in the anti-theft ring that extends radially away from the longitudinal axis, or, conversely: - A protrusion in the body of the lid that extends radially away from the longitudinal axis; - Fastening elements in the anti-theft ring; The fastening element and the protrusion are positioned relative to each other such that the fastening element can engage with the protrusion to hold the body of the cover in an upturned position relative to the tamper-evident ring.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The forming step produces an additional connecting window including an additional connecting strip, wherein the connecting strip and the corresponding second ends of the additional connecting strip are located at the end of an arc of less than 180 degrees in the retaining portion of the anti-theft ring, and wherein the fastening element is located between the second ends relative to the arc.

16. The method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The step of cutting a notch along at least one extension of the connecting portion of the tamper-evident ring after the forming step, wherein one of the following conditions is met: i) The cut is formed along the entire periphery of the connecting portion, wherein the sidewall of the body of the cover and the tamper-evident ring define an inner surface facing the longitudinal axis, and wherein the connecting strip has a thickness-increasing region that protrudes radially from the inner surface at a cut plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and passing through the connecting portion, the thickness-increasing region being at least partially unaffected by the cut. ii) The cut is selectively formed by interrupting the cut at least in the portion of the connecting band located in the connecting area.

17. A mold for manufacturing a lid for a container, the mold being movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein in the closed configuration, the mold defines a forming cavity, the forming cavity comprising: -The hollow side portion includes The main body region, which has internal threads and extends about a longitudinal axis between the first and second ends, A connecting region that extends around the longitudinal axis and connects to the second end of the main body region. An anti-theft area extends around the longitudinal axis and connects to the connecting area, such that the connecting area is located between the main area and the anti-theft area and defines a passage between the main area and the anti-theft area; - A transverse hollow section, which is connected to the first end of the main body region of the side hollow section. The shaped cavity (7) is characterized in that it further includes a connecting region formed by corresponding portions of the main body region, the connecting region and the anti-theft region of the cover, the connecting region including a connecting portion and a thickness-reduced portion surrounding the connecting portion.

18. The mold according to claim 17, characterized in that, include: - Upper and lower units, which are movable relative to each other along the longitudinal axis to define the shaped cavity; - A drawer having a groove formed in its top surface, the drawer being movable in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis, such that when the mold is in a closed position where the upper unit, the lower unit, and the drawer are close together, the top surface of the drawer defines the outer side of the connecting area of ​​the forming cavity.

19. The mold according to claim 18, characterized in that, The drawer has an irregularly shaped portion configured to interact with a corresponding portion of the upper or lower unit, such that longitudinal movement of the upper or lower unit toward the closing structure of the mold causes lateral movement of the drawer toward the closing structure of the mold.

20. The mold according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that, include: - An additional drawer with a groove formed in its top surface, the additional drawer being movable in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis, such that when the mold is in a closed position where the upper unit, the lower unit and the additional drawer are close together, the top surface of the additional drawer defines the outer side of the additional connection area; - An auxiliary drawer that can move laterally along the longitudinal axis such that when the mold is in a closed position where the upper unit, the lower unit, and the auxiliary drawer are close together, the top surface of the auxiliary drawer defines the outer side of a portion of the forming cavity to form at least one protruding area and one irregular area in the forming cavity. The drawer is movable along a first transverse axis, the additional drawer is movable along a second transverse axis, and the auxiliary drawer is movable along a third transverse axis. The first transverse axis, the second transverse axis, and the third transverse axis are radially oriented relative to the longitudinal axis. The third transverse axis is located between the first transverse axis and the second transverse axis and is angularly equidistant from the first transverse axis and the second transverse axis.

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