Label for sealing a container

Abstract

A label (1) for sealing a container (2) comprises a film (10) in which a die-cut line (11) runs, interrupted by material ribs (12) of a material of the film (10). The film (10) has a first region (110) and a second region (120), wherein the first region (110) is separated from the second region (120) by the die-cut line (11) and connected to the second region (120) at the material ribs (12). The punching line (11) runs in the material of the film (10) such that in the first area (110) of the film (10) spaced-apart first material sections (111) are formed and in the second area (120) of the film (10) spaced-apart second material sections (121) are formed, wherein the first and second material sections (111, 121) are separated from each other by the punching line (11) and are arranged alternately next to each other.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a label for sealing a container, which clearly indicates the first opening of the container.

[0002] Labels are affixed to product packaging for identification purposes. For example, tamper-evident labels are applied to the openings of packaging or containers to indicate that the packaging or container is still intact, particularly unopened. They can also be applied to rotating or moving parts of a product to indicate, for example, that a valve is still closed. To open the packaging or container, or to move movable parts of the product relative to each other, the tamper-evident label must be cut. While cutting a tamper-evident label does create a cut in the label material, the cut edges are often shallow, making the damage to the label easy to overlook.If the intention is to deliberately conceal the fact that the packaging or container has already been opened, or that parts of a body have been moved against each other, a transparent film is often glued over the cut edge of the label, without it being immediately obvious that the original label has already been cut.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need to specify a label for sealing a container that provides clear proof of first opening and tamper protection.

[0004] A possible embodiment of a label for sealing a container, which can reliably indicate the first opening of the container and simultaneously provides protection against tampering, is specified in claim 1.

[0005] The label for sealing a container comprises a film with a die-cut line interrupted by material ribs within the film. The film has a first section and a second section. The first section is separated from the second section by the die-cut line and connected to the second section at the material ribs. The die-cut line runs through the film material in such a way that spaced-apart first sections are formed in the first section, and spaced-apart second sections are formed in the second section. The first and second sections are separated by the die-cut line and arranged alternately next to each other.

[0006] The top side of the label, which faces away from the container when the label is affixed to it, may be printed. The underside of the label may be adhesive, except for the areas containing the die-cut line or the first and second material sections. The underside of the label may, for example, be coated with an adhesive layer, with the adhesive layer omitted from the underside of the first and second material sections, or with an adhesive killer applied to the underside of the first and second material sections. Optionally, the label may have back printing, for example, on the adhesive layer.

[0007] The label is affixed to a container in such a way that the first section of the film, except for the portion containing the first material segments, is adhered to the container body. The second section of the film, containing the second material segments, and the portion of the first section containing the first material segments, are positioned on a closure, such as a cap, of the container. When the container is opened by removing the closure from the container body, the fine material strips within the perforation line tear, separating the first and second material segments. The closure can be a primary closure that directly seals the container. Alternatively, the closure can be a secondary closure that completely or partially surrounds the primary closure.

[0008] The special geometry of the die-cutting line creates two spaced-apart sections of material in the first and second areas of the film. These sections are connected only at the material ribs and are arranged alternately side by side in the longitudinal direction, or dispensing direction, of the label. When the container is opened, perforated sections protrude from the container wall and the closure; these are formed by the first and second material sections.

[0009] When opening and / or resealing the container, the first and second sections of material protruding from the container body or the closure are difficult to return to their original position. After opening or resealing the container, the label exhibits a clearly visible deviation from its unopened state in the area of ​​the first and second material sections, making it readily apparent that the container has been previously opened. Furthermore, the shape of the perforation elements, and in particular the deformation of the first and second material sections after opening, makes tampering with the resealing process (recapping protection) difficult.

[0010] Creating the perforation in the form of a punched line interrupted by material ridges in the film material can be done simply, reliably (process-stable), and cost-effectively, without the need for complex steps such as heat application. The perforation, which provides tamper-evident protection, can be produced using all common methods, such as punching, cutting, or plotting the film material. Therefore, the proposed solution is inexpensive and easy to implement, as no additional components or production steps are required beyond the film material and a punching device, such as a plotter, laser cutter, or knife.

[0011] The label's manufacturability is independent of the die-cutting mechanism or other cutting mechanisms. The described perforation function can be achieved using mechanical die-cutting as well as laser die-cutting, particularly digital (thermal) laser die-cutting, or other mechanisms suitable for creating the perforation. The perforation can be externally marked by printing, for example, by printing a dashed line along the die-cut line onto the film. The perforation design can be directly produced using flexographic, screen, and digital printing. The label can be applied to a container using conventional equipment and is not subject to any process-related limitations regarding the container and its contents, such as those that exist with thermal processes.

[0012] This label is designed for multi-part containers with removable or individually movable components. It can be used to seal a rotating or movable part of a container. For example, the label can be used to seal a cap onto the body of the container. On containers with non-removable, individually movable components that activate a function, such as a valve, when rotated, the label can be affixed to the moving parts. This label is suitable, for example, as a tamper-evident seal for cap locks, syringe closure wraps (SCWs), pens, autoinjectors, and generally for pharmaceutical containers such as syringes, as well as containers for cosmeceuticals or non-medical products.

[0013] According to one possible embodiment of the label, the perforation line can be arranged in the film material in such a way that the first and second material sections interlock. This specific perforation design, after the separation of the first and second material sections by opening a container and the associated destruction of the label in the perforation area, causes the individual first and second material sections of the perforation structure to stand up, bend, and interlock with each other. As a result, the structure cannot self-assemble after the container is resealed, as it did before opening. Simply reassembling the container parts produces a clear visual effect indicating that the container has already been opened.The first and second material sections can, for example, interlock in a finger-like, hook-like or wave-like manner.

[0014] According to one possible embodiment of the label, the perforation line can be arranged in the film material such that the first and second material sections are finger- or hook-shaped. When the container is opened, the first and second material sections deform, making the initial opening of the container clearly visible. With this perforation design, the first and second material sections collide or become entangled when an attempt is made to rejoin the container by resealing it. The finger- or hook-shaped first and second material sections thus bend and, after the first and second sections of the label are rejoined, no longer lie flat against the wall of the container or its cap, and therefore are no longer in the same position as before the perforation separated them.

[0015] Protruding and loose parts from the plane of the label are prevented by the material ridges that interrupt the die-cut line. Otherwise, the first and second material sections are separated from each other by the die-cut line, except for the few points where the material ridges are present. In the perforation design according to the invention, however, there is no die-cut on one side of the first material sections facing away from the second area of ​​the film, so that the film material is unweakened on this side. The first material sections are therefore connected to the remaining part of the first area of ​​the film. Likewise, there is no die-cut on one side of the second material sections facing away from the first area of ​​the film, so that the film material is unweakened on this side. The second material sections are connected to the material of the remaining second area of ​​the film on this unweakened side.

[0016] Because the first and second material sections are connected on one side to the material of the remaining first and second sections of the film, the formation of loose pieces at the perforation points when a container is opened is prevented if the material bridges between the first and second material sections tear. This prevents contamination of critical container parts, medical personnel, or open wounds by loose label fragments.

[0017] The label can be single-layered. In principle, a single-layer label can be applied to the body of the container being labeled. However, experience has shown that, with regard to tamper-evident seals and security features, it is advantageous to apply the label in at least multiple layers to the body of the container being labeled.

[0018] According to one possible embodiment, the label can comprise a first section containing the die-cut line and a second section positioned in front of the first section in the dispensing direction. The second section, which is applied first to the body of the container to be labeled during dispensing, can, depending on the container's size, form an inner label layer after application, which is covered by the first section. The first section, containing the die-cut line and the first and second material sections, thus forms an outer label layer.

[0019] According to one possible embodiment of the label, the second section of the film can have a second die-cut line that divides the second section of the film into a third and a fourth area. In the second section of the film, which runs ahead in the dispensing direction, the third and fourth areas are located on opposite sides of the second die-cut line.

[0020] According to one possible embodiment of the label, the second die-cutting line can run in the material of the second section of the film in such a way that at least a third material section is arranged in the third area of ​​the film, which is separated from the fourth area of ​​the film by the second die-cutting line.

[0021] The label can be applied to a container with a closure, such as a cap, in such a way that the second section of the label, forming the inner label layer, extends partially beyond the shoulder of the container body and onto the cap. When the container is opened by removing the cap from the container body, for example by twisting or pulling the cap off, at least one third section of the material is separated from the fourth section of the film.

[0022] Likewise, the material webs in the first section of the label, which forms the outer label layer, tear.

[0023] Since the first and second material sections are free of adhesive on their underside, the first and second material sections of the first section of the label or the outer label layer form the perforation parts already described, which protrude from the body of the container and clearly and easily indicate the opening of the container.

[0024] The effect of the tamper-evident label can be enhanced by coating an area of ​​the second section of the film, or the inner label layer, which is positioned beneath the first and second sections of the outer label layer after the label has been dispensed, with a colored layer. This colored layer acts as a signal, becoming visible beneath the protruding sections after the container is opened and the first and second material sections are separated. In addition to or as an alternative to the colored layer, tactile elements, symbols, or lettering can be applied to this area of ​​the second section of the film or the inner label layer.

[0025] If at least one third section of the inner label layer, after dispensing, is free of adhesive on its underside, this third section will also protrude from the container body, resembling a flag, after the container is opened and separated from the fourth section of the film. When attempting to replace the cap, this third section, forming the flag, is folded by the outer label layer, preventing the protruding components of the label from properly aligning.

[0026] Since the second section of the film, which forms the inner layer after the label has been dispensed, is in contact with the outer perforation, the second section of the label reinforces the deformation of the perforation structures of the outer label layer both when opening the container to which the label is affixed and during resealing or joining the separate material sections of the label.

[0027] One embodiment of a labeled container, for example a medical container, is specified in claim 15. The labeled container comprises a first sub-section and a second sub-section, wherein the second sub-section is displaceable relative to or removable from the first sub-section. Furthermore, the labeled container comprises a label for sealing the container according to one of the embodiments specified above. The first sub-section of the label is arranged at least partially on the first sub-section of the labeled container. The second sub-section of the label is arranged at least partially on the second sub-section of the labeled container.

[0028] The first section of the labeled container can, for example, be a vessel body for holding a substance. The second section of the labeled container can be a cap for closing an opening of the container. According to another possible embodiment, the second section can be a rotatable section relative to the first section of the labeled container, wherein rotating the first and second sections relative to each other triggers a function, for example, opening or closing a valve.

[0029] Depending on its length, the label can be applied once, less than once, or more than once around the circumference of the container. If the label has a second section in addition to the first, it can be applied more than once around the circumference of the container, provided it is long enough. In this case, the second section of the label, which runs ahead in the dispensing direction, forms an inner label layer. The trailing first section of the label forms an outer label layer, positioned over the second section and the inner label layer.If the second die-cut line in the second section of the label is offset from the first die-cut line of the first section, the inner perforation formed by the second die-cut line will be projected with a lateral or vertical offset relative to the outer perforation formed by the first die-cut line. If the second die-cut line is at the same height as the first die-cut line in the film material, the outer and inner perforations will remain at the same height in projection even after the label has been dispensed.

[0030] The invention is explained in more detail and clearly below with reference to figures showing exemplary embodiments of the label for sealing a container. These figures show: Fig. 1A an embodiment of a label for sealing a container with tamper protection and a function for indicating first opening of the container with a wave-shaped perforation structure; Fig. 1B a state of being in Fig. 1A shown embodiment of the label for sealing a container after opening a cap of the container; Fig. 2A an embodiment of a label for sealing a container with tamper protection and a function for indicating first opening of the container with a hook-shaped perforation structure; Fig. 2B a state of being in Fig. 2A embodiment of the label shown for sealing a container after opening a cap of the container; Fig. 3 an embodiment of a label for sealing a container with tamper protection and function for first opening indication of the container with a finger-shaped perforation structure; Fig. 4 an embodiment of a stamping of a label for sealing a container with counter-stamped material sections; Fig. 5 another embodiment of a stamping of a label for sealing a container with asymmetrically stamped material sections; Fig. 6 an embodiment of a label for sealing a container with tamper protection and function for indicating first opening of the container with a section leading in the dispensing direction with color printing and a trailing section with a perforation structure; Fig. 7 an embodiment of a label for sealing a container with tamper protection and function for indicating first opening of the container with a section leading in the dispensing direction with colour-marked, punched material sections and a trailing section with an uneven perforation structure; Fig. 8 an embodiment of a label for sealing a container with tamper protection and function of the first opening indicator of the container with a section leading in the dispensing direction with colour-marked, punched material sections and a trailing section with a uniform perforation structure; Fig. 9 an embodiment of a label for sealing a container with tamper protection and function of first opening indication of the container with a section leading in the dispensing direction with colour-marked, punched material sections and a trailing section with an unevenly punched finger-shaped perforation structure; Fig. 10A offset perforation structures arranged one above the other in the dispensing direction of an inner and outer layer of a label for sealing a container after dispensing the label; Fig. 10B superimposed perforation structures of an inner and outer layer of a label, offset in dispensing direction and height, for sealing a container after dispensing the label; and Fig. 11 an embodiment of a label for sealing a container with tamper protection and function of first opening indication of the container with a label edge extending in the dispensing direction.

[0031] The Fig. Figures 1A, 2A, 3, 6 to 9 and 11 show different embodiments of a label 1 for sealing a container, for example a syringe closed with a cap, wherein the label has tamper protection and reliably indicates the first opening of the container, for example the first removal of the cap from a syringe body.

[0032] The label 1 comprises a film 10 in which a die-cut line 11 runs, interrupted by material ribs 12 of the film 10. The film 10 has a region 110 and a region 120, located on opposite sides of the die-cut line 11. Region 110 of the film 10 is separated from region 120 by the die-cut line 11 and connected to region 120 only at the material ribs 12.

[0033] To apply the label to a container, for example a syringe, an adhesive coating can be arranged on one underside of the film 10. If the label 1 is affixed to a container, for example a syringe, such that area 110 is located on a body of the container, for example a syringe barrel, and area 120 is located on a closure of the container, for example a cap, the adhesive coating in the Fig. Figures 1A, 2A, 3, 6 to 9 and 11 show a special type of perforation using the punch line 11 between areas 110 and 120, ensuring that the container has been opened for the first time by removing the closure or cap, clearly and easily recognizable. Thus, the initial opening of the container is reliably indicated.

[0034] For this purpose, the die-cutting line 11 runs in the material of the film 10 such that spaced material sections 111 are formed in area 110 of the film 10 and spaced material sections 121 are formed in area 120 of the film 10. The material sections 111 and 121 are separated from each other by the die-cutting line 11 and are arranged alternately next to each other in the longitudinal or dispensing direction of the label.

[0035] Area 110 of film 10 has an adhesive underside, with the exception of the underside of material sections 111. Area 120 also has an adhesive underside, with the exception of the underside of material sections 121. Areas 110 and 120 may be coated with an adhesive layer on their underside, with those sub-areas on the underside of material sections 111 and 121 being either adhesive-free or provided with an adhesive killer.

[0036] When the label 1 is affixed to a container as intended, such that area 110 adheres to the container body, material sections 111 extend beyond the container body onto the closure, and area 120 of the film 10 adheres to the container cap, the perforation structure is destroyed when the cap is removed, as the fine material webs 12 tear along the perforation line 11. Since material sections 111 and 121 are non-adhesive on their underside and thus lack an adhesive coating, these perforated sections undergo significant deformation when the cap is opened and protrude from the container body or the cap, making it clearly visible that the container has been opened.

[0037] When attempting to reseal the container by replacing the cap, the material sections 111 and 121 of the perforation no longer assemble as in the original state, but instead interfere with each other or shift amongst themselves or overlap, resulting in an arrangement of material sections 111 and 121 that differs from the original state and thus a state that differs from the unopened state, and therefore an optical effect or a different overall optical impression.

[0038] The effect is very pronounced due to the typical everyday combination of opening and resealing, although variations of the perforation structure shown are also possible, which cause deformation of material sections 111 and 121 only or primarily when the container is opened or resealed. The deformation of material sections 111 and 121 ultimately creates a striking overall appearance, which occurs both in regularly resealed containers and in attempts at manipulating the closure.

[0039] According to the embodiment, the deformation occurs primarily during the separation or joining of the vessel parts, or in a combination of both processes. The specific design of the perforation and the resulting deformation of the perforated parts or material sections 111 and 121, when the vessel parts, for example a syringe body and a cap, are simply brought close together, creates a striking visual appearance that clearly indicates initial opening and significantly hinders the manipulation of the material sections 111 and 121, making it difficult to return them to their original state before the vessel parts were separated.

[0040] As in the exemplary embodiments of the Fig. As shown in Figures 1A, 2A, 3, 6 to 9 and 11, the die-cutting line 11 can be arranged in the material of the film 10 such that the material sections 111 and the material sections 121 interlock. The material sections 111 lie between adjacent material sections 121 in the longitudinal or dispensing direction of the label, and the material sections 121 lie between adjacent material sections 111.

[0041] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in 1A, the punching line 11 is arranged in the material of the film 10 such that the material sections 111 and the material sections 121 are wavy.

[0042] Fig. Figure 2A shows an embodiment of the label in which the die-cut line 11 is arranged in the material of the film 10 such that the material sections 111 and 121 are hook-shaped. In the embodiments of Fig. 1A and Fig. In 2A, the material sections 111 are separated from the area 120 of the film 10 by the punch lines 11 and are only connected to the area 120 of the film 10 at the material webs 12. Likewise, the material sections 121 are separated from the area 110 of the film 10 by the punch line 11 and are only connected to the area 110 of the film 10 at the material webs 12.

[0043] In the Fig. The three finger-shaped material sections 111 and 121, formed by the special die-cutting process, are separated from each other by the die-cutting line 11 and connected only at the material webs 12. Material sections 111 are separated from area 120 of the film by the die-cutting line 11 and connected to the material of area 120 of the film 10 only at the existing material webs 12. Similarly, material sections 121 are separated from area 110 of the film 10 by the die-cutting line 11 and connected to the material of area 110 of the film 10 only at the existing material webs 12.

[0044] The Fig. 1B and Fig. 2B shows, using the example of a wave-shaped perforation structure ( Fig. 1B) or a hook-shaped perforation structure ( Fig. 2B) in the form of the material sections / perforations 111 and 121, the optical effect after opening and resealing a container 2, for example, a syringe. As a result of removing a closure or cap 4 from a vessel body 3 of the container, the material webs 12 tear. The material sections 111 then protrude from the vessel body 3. The material sections 121 protrude from the cap 4.

[0045] When attempting to replace the cap 4 on the vessel body 3 in order to reseal the container 2, the protruding material sections 111 and 121 obstruct each other by colliding, displacing, wedging, or interlocking, and by bending against each other, so that the material in the Fig. 1B and Fig. 2B A striking overall appearance emerges. In particular, material sections 111 and 121 no longer lie flat against the vessel body 3 or the cap 4 on their own, but protrude at least slightly from the vessel body or the cap. To conceal the manipulation, many parts would have to be laboriously positioned simultaneously.

[0046] These effects can be further enhanced by using soft materials, stretchable or contractile materials, or materials with internal tension for the film material. A stretchable or contractile material can be created, for example, by printing inks and varnishes in the perforation area. These inks and varnishes preferably shrink after drying and can thus contribute to the appearance of pronounced, protruding perforation sections of the label after a container is opened. Internal tension can also be achieved by attaching special components or by targeted die-cutting, possibly in conjunction with a multi-layered film structure.Material sections 111 and 121, which exhibit internal stress, stretch and deform significantly after the container is opened, thus clearly indicating that the container has been opened for the first time.

[0047] Since material sections 111 and 121 remain connected to area 110 and area 120 of the film 10, respectively, after the material tabs 12 have been torn out on the unpunched connecting side, no loose label parts appear when the container 2 is opened. The position and orientation of the material tabs 12 can contribute to optimized tearing behavior of the perforation and significantly improve the prevention of loose parts after opening a container.

[0048] The position of the material ribs 12 along the punch line 11 is selected in such a way as to reduce the risk of undefined loose parts forming when the container 2 is opened, depending on the direction of rotation or torsion. This can be achieved by a targeted arrangement of the material ribs 12 in the perforation with respect to the opening direction of the removable component or cap 4 from the container body 3.

[0049] At the in Fig. 1A and Fig. 2A In the wave- or hook-shaped perforation contour, the material webs 12 within the perforation are positioned and aligned such that they lie parallel to the expected initial force acting on the perforation. This minimizes the risk of loose parts forming at the perforation when the container 2 is opened, as the material webs 12 lie parallel to the initial opening movement and are not arranged at an angle to it. For example, the material webs 12 lie horizontally aligned on the horizontal sections of the perforation in the form of the perforation line 11 in the direction of rotation, which represents the initial load when opening by a pure rotational movement or a combined tensile / rotational movement, depending on the cap design. The in Fig. The finger-shaped design of material sections 111 and 121 shown in Figure 3 is advantageously applicable, for example, to a threaded container. Here, the material webs 12 lie along the punch line 11, following the mechanically predetermined opening movement.

[0050] The die-cutting line 11 can be arranged in the material of the film 10 such that the material sections 111 and 121 each have the same or different lengths. For example, the material sections 111 and 121 can have a length between 1 mm and 5 mm, in particular a length of approximately 3 mm. The material sections 111 extend to the same extent or to different depths into the area 120 of the film 10. Likewise, the material sections 121 can extend to the same extent or to different depths into the area 110 of the film 10.

[0051] The Fig. 1A and Fig. Figure 2A shows, for example, embodiments of the punching in which the material sections 111 and 121 have the same length and thus extend equally far into the area 110 and the area 120 of the foil 10 respectively.

[0052] Fig. Figure 3 shows an embodiment of the die-cutting process in which the die-cutting line 11 is arranged in the material of the film 10 such that the material sections 111 and 121 have different lengths and thus extend to different extents into the area 120 and the area 110 of the film 10, respectively. Due to their different lengths, the material sections 111 and 121 are, during the process described in Fig. 3 shown embodiment of the label in alternating height arrangement in the material of the film 10.

[0053] Variations on the one in Fig. The height arrangement of the material sections 111 and 121 shown in Figure 3 is possible. For example, alternating groups of material sections of the same length can be formed. For instance, alternating first groups of several adjacent material sections 111 and 121, respectively, having a first length, and second groups of several adjacent material sections 111 and 121, respectively, having a second length, can be provided. According to another possible embodiment, each material section 111 and 121 can have an individual length, or a random sequence of material sections 111 and 121 of different lengths can be provided.

[0054] It has happened in the Fig. The finger-shaped design of material sections 111 and 121 shown in section 3 proved advantageous when – as in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the material webs 12 in adjacent material sections 111 and 121 are not at the same height. In those material sections 111 that extend deeper into the area 120 of the film 10, the material webs 12 are arranged above the material webs that are present in the shorter material sections 111.

[0055] Rotating the view so that the material sections 111, 121 are vertical, it can be seen that the material webs 12 along the section of the punching line 11, which limits the narrow, longer material sections 121 or which limits each first material section 121 of two depressions or each material section 121 to the right of a long material section 111, are at almost the same height, evaluated on the direction of the initial force, so that this element separates uniformly when the material webs tear.

[0056] Each subsequent material section 121, which lies before the next longer material section 111 or to the left of the longer material section 111, has a large open area in the transition to the remaining area 120 of the foil 10, which provides the necessary stability to avoid loose parts / undefined cracks, which is why the material webs do not have to be next to each other here (and cannot be due to the different heights that create the open area).

[0057] According to another possible embodiment of the die-cutting, the die-cutting line 11 is arranged in the material of the film 10 such that the material sections 111 have the same or different inclinations with respect to the longitudinal direction or dispensing direction of the label, and likewise the material sections 121 have the same or different inclinations. The in Fig. The finger-shaped material sections 111 and 121 shown can, for example, be inclined uniformly at a certain angle, for example an angle of 45°, in the longitudinal or dispensing direction of the label, or be inclined or rotated in opposite directions individually or in groups.

[0058] In principle, the die-cutting using the die-cutting line 11 can be carried out in such a way that periodic die-cut structures are created from repeating shapes of the material sections 111 and 121 or a repeating sequence of the material sections 111 and 121. The die-cutting line 11 can also be arranged in the material of the film 10 in such a way that non-periodic die-cut geometries of the material sections 111 and 121 are formed.

[0059] The shape of the punching or punching line 11 can be optimized in such a way that, regardless of the opening movement of a container, as many perforation elements or material sections 111, 121 as possible are sufficiently deformed when the container is opened and, if necessary, when the container is resealed, in order to clearly show the initial opening or the subsequent resealing of the container.

[0060] Depending on the removal movement of a cap, for example, rotated, straight along the vessel body - without rotation, a combination of rotated and straight movement or successive different movements, the alignment of the material sections 111 and 121 can be achieved by a corresponding punching of the material of the film 10.

[0061] Fig. Figure 4 shows the execution of a punching operation using the punching line 11, in which material sections 111 oriented alternately in different directions are formed at the edge of the area 110. In the illustrated configuration of the punching line 11, stable material sections 111 are created that stand up independently of the opening movement when a container on which the label is placed is opened, since the deformation of the material sections occurs reliably, at least in parts of the perforation, both during pure pulling movements and during twisting / pulling movements in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

[0062] Further variations in perforation geometry can be created by asymmetrical die-cutting, as is the case, for example, in Fig. 5 is shown. As a result of the in Fig. The punching shown in Figure 5 creates a sequence of material sections that are asymmetrically shaped relative to each other. Beyond a clear initial opening indicator, statistically preferred opening movements can thus be taken into account.

[0063] The label 1 can be single-layered, wherein the underside of areas 110 and 120, with the exception of the underside of material sections 111 and 121, is adhesive, provided that an adhesive coating is applied to the underside of areas 110 and 120, and that the underside of material sections 111 and 121 is either left uncovered by the adhesive coating or has an adhesive killer applied there. Optionally, a print 300 can be applied to the top surface of areas 110 and 120, or, in the case of reverse-side printing, also to the adhesive coating on the underside of the label, as shown in the example of the label embodiments in the Fig. 6 - 9 is shown on the top.

[0064] The label can generally be arranged on a container such that a first sub-area of ​​material sections 111 and 121 is located on the container body and a second sub-area of ​​material sections 111 and 121 is located on the container closure, whereby the respective first sub-area and the respective second sub-area can have different proportions to each other. For example, the label can be affixed to a container such that the die-cut line 11 runs centrally to a contact line between the container body and the container closure, so that material sections 111 and 121 are arranged in equal proportions on the container body and the container closure.

[0065] The label can also be arranged on a container such that area 110, except for the part containing the material sections 111, is partially or completely wrapped around the circumference of the container body. The part of area 110 containing the material sections 111 and area 120 containing the material sections 121 can be partially or completely wrapped around the circumference of the container closure. Alternatively, the label can be arranged on a container such that area 110 containing the material sections 111 and the material sections 121 are located on the container body. The remaining area 120 of the film 10 is then located on the container closure.

[0066] As in the Fig. 1A, Fig. 2A and Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the label 1 can optionally have, in addition to a section 100 with the die-cut line 11, the material webs 12, the areas 110 and 120 or the material sections 111 and 121, a section 200 leading in the dispensing direction. The section 200 is in the Fig. 1A, Fig. 2A and Fig. Figure 3 is shown with a dashed border. When the label 1 is placed on a container, the section 200, which runs ahead in the dispensing direction, forms an inner label layer on the container, depending on the container's circumference, on which the section 100 is placed as an outer label layer.

[0067] The label 1 is affixed to a container, for example, in such a way that the section 200 of film 10 forming the inner label layer extends over the shoulder of the container body, partially reaching the container cap. The inner label layer 200 can partially or completely encircle the container and be formed as a continuous strip or consist of several separate parts. For application to a container, the reverse side of section 200 of film 10 is coated with adhesive. The use of an adhesive killer in the area on the reverse side of section 200 that comes into contact with a removable container closure, such as a cap, may be advantageous. Potential benefits arise during application with regard to initial contact and force transmission to the individual parts of the container, and prevent the accumulation of dirt.

[0068] In the Fig. 1A, Fig. 2A and Fig. In the three embodiments of the label shown, section 200 of the film 10 has perforations 13, for example, I-shaped perforations. The inner label layer 200 with the perforations 13, when dispensed, can enhance the effect of the material sections 111 and 121 rising up after a cap is removed from a container. Likewise, the two-layered embodiment of the label, with the inner label layer 200 and the outer label layer 100, mechanically hinders the replacement of a cap after a container has been opened.

[0069] The Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8 to Fig. Figure 9 shows further embodiments of the label 1 with tamper protection and function of the first opening indicator of a container, in which the label has, in addition to section 100, the section 200 extending in the direction of dispensing.

[0070] At the in Fig. In the embodiment of label 1 shown in Figure 6, an area 220 of section 200 of film 10, which lies in an extension of material sections 111 and 121 at the level of material sections 111 and 121, is coated with a color 400. If the label can be wrapped around a container to be labeled more than once, for example, one and a half times or twice, the area 220 of section 200 coated with the signal color 400, which forms the inner layer, lies, in the dispensed state of the label, beneath material sections 111 and 121 of section 100 of film 10, which forms the outer label layer. In addition to the coating with the color layer 400, markings, symbols, or tactile elements can be arranged in the area 220 of section 200 of film 10.

[0071] After opening a container closure, the area 220 of section 200 of film 10, coated with signal color 400, becomes visible beneath the material sections 111 protruding from the container wall, forming a kind of flag. Additional letters or symbols can be placed on area 220 so that they are visible between the protruding perforation elements / material sections 111 when the container is open or resealed.

[0072] The Fig. 7, Fig. 8 to Fig. Figure 9 shows embodiments of the label 1 with different perforation structures in section 100 of the film 10, wherein section 200 of the film 10 has a die-cut line 13. Section 200 of the film 10 is divided by the die-cut line 13 into a region 210 and a region 220, which are arranged on opposite sides of the die-cut line 13. The die-cut line 13 can be arranged in section 200 with or without interruptions in the form of material ribs 14 in the material of the film 10.

[0073] The die-cut line 13 can run in the material of section 200 of the film 10 such that at least one material section 211 is created in area 210 of section 200 of the film, which is separated from area 220 by the die-cut line 13. The material sections 211 may also be connected to section 220 of the film 10 via fine material ridges along the course of the die-cut line 13. The at least one material section 211 is connected to the remaining part of area 210 of section 200 of the film on a side facing away from area 220, where no die-cut or material weakening is provided. The at least one material section 211 may be adhesive-free on its underside.

[0074] If the label of Fig. 7, Fig. 8 to Fig. When the label is affixed more than once around the container to be labeled in the manner described above, opening the container's cap causes the inner label section 200 to separate from area 220, and the outer label section 100 to separate from area 110 from area 120. In area 110 of the label, material sections 111 protrude from the container body, extending over the shoulder of the container body, and were positioned on the cap before the container was opened. In area 210, at least one material section 211, which is free of adhesive on its underside, also protrudes from the container body. This at least one material section 211 thus forms a flag projecting from the container body, on which lettering or symbols may optionally be placed.

[0075] In this configuration as well, the inner label section 200, when dispensed, mechanically hinders the replacement of a cap after opening a container on which the label 1 is located. When attempting to replace the cap, the at least one material section 211, acting as a flag, is bent, thus preventing the cap from being replaced straight and / or hindering the seamless reassembly of label section 200 with label section 100 and, in particular, the protruding material sections 111 and 121. Since the inner label section 200 is in contact with the outer perforation, it exacerbates the deformation of the perforation structure both when opening a container and during resealing or reassembly of the individual label components.

[0076] Additionally, the appropriate length of at least one material section 211 serving as a flag prevents it from being pressed evenly under material sections 111 and 121. The protruding material sections 111 and 121 of the outer label layer 100 further hinder such manipulative action and thus reinforce the effect of the flag.

[0077] Section 200 of slide 10 can, in principle, have a single die-cut material section 211, which, as a flag, reinforces the indication of the initial opening of a container. Fig. 7, Fig. 8 to Fig. Figure 9 shows embodiments of the label 1 in which the die-cutting line 13 runs in the material of section 200 of the film 10 such that several spaced-apart material sections 211 are formed along the upper edge of area 210 of the film 10. Each of the material sections 211 can, for example, be provided with symbols or lettering. The material sections 211 are separated from each other by the die-cutting line 13, with a subsection 221 of area 220 of section 200 of the film 10 being arranged between each of the material sections 211.

[0078] In the Fig. 7, Fig. 8 to Fig. In the nine illustrated embodiments of the label, each of the material sections 211 thus forms a flag, which makes it difficult to reassemble the individual label components faithfully after separating the material sections 111 and 121. In particular, it is difficult to slide the material sections 211 back under the material sections 111 and 121 when reassembling the label parts without damaging the material sections.

[0079] In principle, section 200 can contain single or multiple different or repeating material sections / flags 211. Which and how many (different) material sections 211 are inserted depends on the objective, for example, increased deformation when opening a container or more difficult assembly of the individual label components when resealing the container.

[0080] Basically, the length of label 1 with the perforation contour is not limited, since the label, as described, can also be wrapped around a container several times, which can result in different distances between the perforation structures of the inner and outer label layers and different numbers of structures in the different label layers when projected onto the overlapping label layers.

[0081] According to one embodiment of the label, the die-cut line 13 in section 200 of the film 10 can be designed as an extension of the die-cut line 11, adjoining the die-cut line 11 without offset. The die-cut line 13 can have a shape similar to or identical to the die-cut line 11. For example, the die-cut line 13 in section 200 of the film 10 can run with the same orientation or inclination as the die-cut line 11 in section 100.

[0082] According to another embodiment of the label, the die-cut line 13 can have a different shape than the die-cut line 11. For example, the die-cut line 13 can run with an opposite orientation or inclination in section 200 of the foil 10.

[0083] Furthermore, embodiments are possible in which the die-cut line 13 in section 200 of the film 10 is offset from the die-cut line 11 in section 100 of the film 10. For example, the die-cut line 13 in section 200 of the film 10 can be arranged laterally, i.e., in the longitudinal direction or dispensing direction of the label, offset from the die-cut line 11 in section 100 of the film 10. According to another possible embodiment, the die-cut line 13 in section 100 of the film 10 can be arranged vertically offset from the die-cut line 11 in section 100.

[0084] The Fig. 10A and Fig. Figure 10B shows such embodiments of stamping geometries, in which the Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8 to Fig. In the area 210 of section 200 of foil 10 shown in Figure 9, a die-cut line 13 with material ribs 14, similar to the die-cut line 11 with material ribs 12, is introduced. When the label is dispensed, the die-cut lines 11 and 13 can be arranged overlapping and laterally offset from each other, as shown in Figure 9. Fig. 10A is shown. In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in 10B, when the label is dispensed, an additional height offset occurs between the die-cutting lines 11 and 12 in projection through the superimposed label layers.

[0085] The overlap of the die-cut lines 11 and 13 shown in the dispensed state can be achieved, among other things, by a label wrapped around a container more than once or multiple times, for example, one and a half or two times, or by a multi-layered label, for example, a two-layered label. The inner label layer with the perforation structure introduced by the die-cut line 13 behaves similarly to the flag structures of the material sections 211 described above, in that it presents an obstacle to the traceless reassembly of the individual label components and promotes deformation through fanning, bending, or entanglement of the individual material sections. In addition to the ones described in the Fig. 10A and Fig. The die-cutting geometries shown in 10B can have different shapes and sizes for the label layers lying on top of each other in the dispensed state.

[0086] Fig.Figure 11 shows a further embodiment of the label 1 with tamper protection and a function to indicate the initial opening of a container, wherein section 200 of the film 10 has a subsection 201 extending ahead in the dispensing direction and a subsection 202 following in the dispensing direction. Subsection 201 forms a leading label edge that widens towards subsection 202. In a dispensed state, the leading label edge 201 preferably only makes contact with the body of the container to be labeled, in order to avoid exerting pressure on a removable part, for example, a cap, and thus to simplify the dispensing of the label on dispensing machines. Reference symbol list 1 label 10 slides 11 Punch line 12 Material bridge 13 Punch line 14 Material bridge 100 trailing label sections 110, 120 area 111, 121 Material section 200 leading label section 201, 202 Subsection 210, 220 area 211 Material section 221 Subsection 300 printing 400 layers of paint

Claims

[1] Label for sealing a container, comprising: - a film (10) in which a punch line (11) runs, which is interrupted by material webs (12) of a material of the film (10), - wherein the foil (10) has a first area (110) and a second area (120), - wherein the first area (110) is separated from the second area (120) by the punching line (11) and connected to the second area (120) at the material webs (12), - wherein the punching line (11) runs in the material of the film (10) such that in the first area (110) of the film (10) spaced-apart first material sections (111) are formed and in the second area (120) of the film (10) spaced-apart second material sections (121) are formed, wherein the first and second material sections (111, 121) are separated from each other by the punching line (11) and are arranged alternately next to each other. [2] Label according to claim 1, wherein the die-cutting line (11) is arranged in the material of the film (10) such that the first material sections (111) and the second material sections (121) interlock. [3] Label according to claim 1 or 2, - wherein the first material sections (111) are separated from the second area (120) of the film (10) by the punch line (11) and are connected to the second area (120) of the film (10) at the material webs (12), - wherein the second material sections (121) are separated from the first area (110) of the film (10) by the punch line (11) and are connected to the first area (110) of the film (10) at the material webs (12). [4] Label according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first material sections (111) and the second material sections (121) are connected to each other at the material webs (12). [5] Label according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first material sections (111) and second material sections (121) are non-adhesive on a respective underside which, in a state of the label being glued to a substrate, is facing the substrate. [6] Label according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the die-cutting line (11) is arranged in the material of the film (10) such that the first material sections (111) and the second material sections (121) are finger-, wave- or hook-shaped. [7] Label according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the die-cutting line (11) is arranged in the material of the film (10) such that the first material sections (111) each have the same or different lengths and the second material sections (121) each have the same or different lengths. [8] Label according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the die-cutting line (11) is arranged in the material of the film (10) such that the first material sections (111) each have the same or different inclination and the second material sections (121) each have the same or different inclination. [9] Label according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising: - a first section (100) in which the punch line (11) runs, - a second section (200) arranged in the dispensing direction of the label before the first section (100). [10] Label according to claim 9, wherein a region (220) of the second section (200) of the film (10) is coated with a color. [11] Label according to claim 9 or 10, - wherein the second section (200) of the foil (10) has a second die-cutting line (13), - wherein the second section (200) of the foil (10) is subdivided by the second die-cutting line (13) into a third area (210) and a fourth area (220) which are arranged on opposite sides of the second die-cutting line (13). [12] Label according to claim 11, wherein the second die-cutting line (13) extends in the material of the second section (200) of the film (10) such that at least a third material section (211) is arranged in the third area (210), which is separated from the fourth area (220) by the second die-cutting line (13). [13] Label according to claim 11, - wherein the second punching line (13) runs in the material of the second section (200) of the film (10) in such a way that third material sections (211) spaced apart from each other are formed in the third area (210), - wherein the third material sections (211) are separated from the fourth area (220) by the second punching line (13), - wherein the third material sections (211) are separated from each other by the second punching line (13) and a subsection (221) of the area (220) is arranged between the material sections (211). [14] Label according to any one of claims 11 to 13, - wherein the second punching line (13) is either designed as an extension of the first punching line (11) and connects to the first punching line (11) without offset, or - wherein the second die-cut line (13) in the foil (10) is offset from the first die-cut line (11). [15] Labeled container, comprising: - a first sub-area (3) and a second sub-area (4), wherein the second sub-area (4) is displaceable relative to the first sub-area (3) or removable from the first sub-area (3), - a label (1) for sealing the labelled container (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, - wherein the first area (110) of the label (1) is at least partially located on the first sub-area (3) of the labeled container (2) and the second area (120) of the label (1) is at least partially located on the second sub-area (4) of the labeled container (2).

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