Adhesive label for a multi-part container, system and method for applying an adhesive label to a multi-part container

Abstract

An adhesive label (10) for a multi-part container (30) having a threaded element (31) and a container body (32) comprises a first, flat label portion (11), which is configured to be fastened to the threaded element (31) of the container (30), and a second label portion (12), which adjoins the first label portion (11) and is configured to be fastened to the container body (32) of the container (30). The second label portion (12) has a comb-like structure (13) with a plurality of strip-like fixing elements (131, 132) such that the adhesive label (10), with regard to a state applied to the container (30), couples the threaded element (31) to the container body (32) and counteracts any movement of the threaded element (31) relative to the container body (32).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an adhesive label for a multi-part vessel that can contribute to reliable coupling of vessel components and secure tamper protection for the vessel in a simple and cost-effective manner. The invention also relates to a system comprising such an adhesive label and a multi-part vessel, as well as a method for applying such an adhesive label to a multi-part vessel.

[0002] A label can be used, in particular, to identify or prove the origin of an object to be labeled. For example, labels are used when it is necessary to indicate the contents of a container. This particularly applies to containers in the pharmaceutical and medical sectors, whose contents must be protected against tampering. Document EP2014570A is considered the closest prior art.

[0003] It is an object underlying the invention to contribute to a reliable hold of components of a multi-part vessel in a simple and cost-effective manner.

[0004] The problem is solved by an adhesive label, a system, and a method for applying an adhesive label having the features of the respective independent patent claims. Advantageous developments of the adhesive label, the system, and the method are specified in the respective dependent patent claims.

[0005] According to one aspect of the invention, an adhesive label for a multi-part vessel having a threaded element and a vessel body comprises a first, flat label portion configured to be attached to the threaded element of the vessel. The adhesive label further comprises a second label portion adjacent to the first label portion and having a comb-like structure with a plurality of spaced-apart, strip-shaped fixing elements. The second label portion with the fixing elements is configured to be attached to the vessel body of the vessel, such that the adhesive label couples the threaded element to the vessel body and counteracts movement of the threaded element relative to the vessel body.

[0006] The described adhesive label enables a reliable and cost-effective fixation of a threaded element to the associated body, while also contributing to secure tamper protection. The adhesive label is particularly suitable for packaging or containers in the pharmaceutical sector, such as syringes, injection vials, or vials, which typically include a threaded element that is attached or plugged onto the associated container body.

[0007] The threaded element comprises, for example, a section with an internal thread, which forms a type of threaded head adjacent to a section that allows it to be placed or plugged onto the vessel body. Alternatively, the threaded element is provided with a thread over its entire outer surface. In particular, the threaded section is coupled to a closure, which forms a cap for the vessel and securely closes it.

[0008] It is a finding in connection with the present invention that, for example, in glass syringes with a Luer-Lock system, the threaded element, which is usually formed from a plastic part and provided with a threaded section, is pushed onto the front of the glass syringe. Such a plastic threaded element is attached to the glass syringe by mechanical interlocking or adhesive bonding. However, such an attachment of the threaded element to syringes is often not sufficient. It can happen that when screwing in a syringe needle, the mechanical or adhesive coupling does not hold and the threaded element rotates with it, particularly if the user does not hold the threaded element firmly when screwing in the syringe needle. It can also happen that when using highly viscous formulations, the syringe needle flakes off together with the threaded element.

[0009] The described adhesive label enables the threaded element to be secured, particularly in the form of a Luer-Lock thread on syringes, so that the Luer-Lock thread is sufficiently firmly attached to the syringe during use. Additionally, the adhesive label, particularly in conjunction with the threaded element, can be designed to provide a first-opening indicator. The adhesive label can be used to surround the container like a second skin, allowing the adhesive label to provide additional protection, such as protection against UV radiation, for any medication contained within the container.

[0010] According to a preferred embodiment of the adhesive label, the strip-shaped fixing elements each have a predetermined orientation transverse to the first label section and each form a predetermined angle with an adjacent edge of the first label section. In this way, a beneficial overlap of fixing elements on the container can be established, which contributes to a stable and reliable hold of the threaded element against unwanted twisting.

[0011] In particular, one or more of the fixing elements can each form an angle of less than 90° or greater than 90° with the adjacent edge of the first label section. When applied to the vessel, the fixing elements according to such a configuration enclose the circumference of the vessel body in a spiral shape and reliably counteract unwanted rotation of the threaded element when the vessel is opened.

[0012] According to a further preferred development of the adhesive label, some strip-shaped fixing elements form an angle of less than 90° with the adjacent edge of the first label section, and further strip-shaped fixing elements form an angle of greater than 90°. According to such an embodiment, the adhesive label has a comb-like structure with sections that are directed toward one another. When applied to the vessel, the respective fixing elements enclose the circumference of the vessel body in a spiral shape and come to rest on one another in sections. The differently aligned sections of the comb-like structure are preferably formed on the outside at opposite ends of the adhesive label.

[0013] Preferably, the adhesive label and the fixing elements are designed to be wide or long enough to create a wraparound label for the container to which the adhesive label is to be applied. When the adhesive label is applied, the first label section is wrapped around the threaded element, and the second label section is wrapped around the container body, so that the external fixing elements cross over and cover each other in sections. This allows for a particularly stable hold of the adhesive label on the container, and reliably counteracts any relative movement of the threaded element relative to the container body.

[0014] According to a further preferred embodiment of the adhesive label, the first label section is further designed to extend into the region of a closure of the vessel and in particular to be attached thereto, such that the adhesive label further couples the closure to the vessel body. The adhesive label can surround the closure more or less contactlessly and form a type of sleeve around it or alternatively be connected to it, for example, by adhesive bonding. The first label section of the adhesive label is in particular adhesively bonded to the threaded element and can also enclose the closure of the vessel in a sleeve-like manner without being adhesively coupled to it or to it. The first label section can thus enclose the closure all around its longitudinal axis without contact or adhesive bonding. An upper part of the first label section then forms a label sleeve that is open upwards with respect to the longitudinal axis.When the vessel is opened, the first label section is then pressed against an outer surface of the closure and separated from a lower part of the first label section and from the second label section by pulling and / or turning and removed from the vessel body together with the closure of the vessel.

[0015] For the purposes of this description, terms such as "top" and "bottom" refer to the proper arrangement or application of the label and the container. This also applies to terms such as "head" and "body," where the head is generally positioned at the top and the body is usually positioned at the bottom. The closure of the container, for example, forms the upper part of a head of an injection vial or syringe and includes, for example, a cap, a lid, or a primary closure or cap, which is removed to open the container.

[0016] The vessel body then forms, for example, the lower part of a container of the injection vial or syringe for receiving and storing a given content.

[0017] The first label section of the adhesive label is assigned to the upper component of the vessel and thus to the threaded element and / or the closure and can therefore also be referred to as the upper label section. The second label section of the adhesive label is assigned to the lower component of the vessel and remains on the vessel body or the container of the vessel after opening and can therefore also be referred to as the lower label section. However, a reversed orientation and use of the adhesive label is also possible, in which the fixing elements are attached to the threaded element and this is fixed with respect to relative movements by means of the first label section, which is then placed on the vessel body.

[0018] The described designs of the adhesive label, in which the upper label section extends to the closure of the container, are particularly suitable for providing proof of opening and tamper protection in addition to the fixed hold of the threaded element. Upon opening the container, the closure is removed from the threaded element and, for example, pulled or torn off the remaining portion together with a partial element of the first label section. Accordingly, the opening of the container can be recognized by the part of the adhesive label remaining on the container body.

[0019] Furthermore, the first label section is preferably designed such that only a narrow gap or space exists between the closure and the surrounding first label section. Manipulation or an attempt to open the label by reaching into the narrow space from above would result in the first label section being torn or crumpled, so that such an action would leave recognizable traces.

[0020] The adhesive label can be designed, in particular, as an adhesive label, such that it partially or completely covers the threaded element and the vessel body with respect to a circumference. Alternatively, the adhesive label can be designed, in particular, such that the first and / or second label section is configured to match a circumference of the threaded element and / or the closure and / or the vessel body of the vessel to be provided with the adhesive label and has a predetermined length. The adhesive label can thus be designed partially or completely as a wrap-around or overwrap label.For example, the first label section is designed as an overwrap section in terms of its length, so that when applied, it completely encloses a circumference of the threaded element and partially covers or overlaps itself, while the second label section only covers part of the outer surface of the vessel body and does not completely enclose it. Alternatively, the second label section is designed as an overwrap section in terms of its length, so that when applied, it completely surrounds a circumference of the vessel body.

[0021] According to a further preferred development of the adhesive label, the first label section is designed to match a surface structure of the threaded element and / or the closure of the container to which the adhesive label is to be applied and has a predetermined punched-out portion or recess. Such a recess can be designed, in particular, as a punched-out recess complementary to a protrusion or one or more projecting areas. For example, nubs or an annular protrusion are provided on the threaded element and / or the closure of the container, so that the adhesive label has circular or elongated or annular recesses adapted to the respective surface structure, which correspond to the surface structure.If, for example, the threaded element or the closure has a circumferential elevation, the adhesive label has an elongated recess aligned with such elevation, which, when applied to the container, forms a substantially annular recess. The adhesive label has at least one retaining web, preferably two spaced-apart retaining webs or several equidistantly arranged retaining webs, so that the lower, second label section is connected to the upper, first label section.

[0022] According to a further preferred development of the adhesive label, the first label section is designed to match a surface structure of the threaded element and / or the closure and has at least partial multi-layering. Alternatively or additionally, the second label section with the comb-like structure can also be designed to match a surface structure and / or a circumference of the vessel body of the vessel to which the adhesive label is to be applied and can have at least partial multi-layering. The adhesive label with multiple layers can, for example, compensate for different radii or diameters of a cylindrical vessel to which the adhesive label is to be applied. Small differences in diameter between the threaded element and the vessel body can be overcome by the comb structure of the second label section, even with just one layer.In addition, multi-layering can contribute to proof of opening, so that, for example, a section of an upper layer is predefined when the marked container is opened, and an underlying area of ​​a lower layer is specifically exposed to clearly indicate that an opening has occurred. The exposed section of such a lower layer is, for example, color-coded or bears a predefined label such as "used," "open," or "opened."

[0023] The adhesive label preferably has an adhesive layer arranged on an underside of the first and / or second label section, such that the adhesive label can be arranged on the container by means of adhesive bonding. In this way, the adhesive label can be applied cost-effectively, easily, and reliably to the container provided for it. The adhesive layer can completely or partially cover the underside of the adhesive label. In particular, the adhesive layer can be designed in a predetermined manner to match a material or a surface structure of the threaded element, the closure, and / or the container. An adhesive of the adhesive layer is specifically selected, for example, taking into account a surface roughness of the threaded element, in order to ensure a stable hold of the adhesive label on the container and a reliable fixation of the threaded element.

[0024] According to a further preferred development, the adhesive label, in particular the first label section, has a cutting area with a cutting element, so that when the container applied with the adhesive label is opened, the adhesive label can be cut through in a predetermined manner along the cutting area, so that at least a first partial element of the first label section, together with the closure of the container, can be removed from a second partial element of the first label section and the container body of the container. In particular, the adhesive label can have an adhesive-free surface in the cutting area, so that when the applied container is opened, the adhesive label can be cut through easily and with little resistance along the cutting element.

[0025] The cutting element can, in particular, be designed as a perforation and enable a predetermined tearing action. Alternatively or additionally, the adhesive label can have a film or film element in the cutting area that has a relatively low tear resistance, allowing the film element and thus the adhesive label to be easily torn and severed. Such a film element is designed, for example, as an acetate film and does not require a separate perforation or other weakening structure to enable easy cutting.

[0026] For example, the adhesive label also has an adhesive surface in an upper area of ​​the first label section, which faces away from the second label section. The adhesive area of ​​the first label section is then bonded to a closure of the container and can be removed from the remaining adhesive label and the threaded element or container body when the container is opened with the closure. Thus, no separate segment remains as waste for disposal.

[0027] If the applied adhesive label extends to a closure of the container and the closure or the adhesive label itself includes a severability area, the adhesive label preferably has an adhesive-free surface in the severability area. This allows for easier severance of the adhesive label and removal of the detachable part of the first label section. The force required to separate the adhesive label is reduced compared to a fully adhesive adhesive label, and the opening dynamics of the container applied with the adhesive label are improved.

[0028] The respective severance region can be formed, in particular in accordance with the vessel to be applied, in a region of the adhesive label which, when applied to the vessel, is associated with a transition between the closure and the threaded element or between the threaded element and the vessel body. The severance region is located, for example, in a region of a lower end of the closure. Sufficiently strong twisting and / or pulling on the closure of the vessel then leads to a severance of the adhesive label. However, the severance region can also be arranged in other regions that allow the adhesive label to be separated when the vessel is opened.In particular, if the adhesive label is designed in multiple layers, the cutting area can, for example, be arranged significantly below the area of ​​the lower end of the closure, so that an upper or outward-facing layer of the adhesive label tears in a predetermined manner due to an acting tensile and / or twisting force.

[0029] In particular, a cutting element, for example in the form of a perforation or a tear strip, can be provided in the cutting area, which enables controlled cutting of the adhesive label. Furthermore, the adhesive label, for example in the area of ​​the first label section, can be designed with predetermined surface properties that allow the user to open the container and cut the adhesive label more easily. Such beneficial surface properties can be realized, for example, with anti-slip coatings, printed tactile elements, or surface microstructuring, which enable a more secure grip of the first label section.

[0030] According to a further development, the adhesive label comprises an opening detection element that is integrated into the first label section or coupled thereto and that is designed to indicate the removal of at least a first partial element of the first label section from the second label section and the container body of the container. The opening detection element can interact, in particular, with the previously described severing element in the form of a perforation and clearly indicate a predetermined tearing of the adhesive label. Furthermore, the opening detection element can be implemented in the form of a colored surface or a background lettering that is exposed when the container provided with the adhesive label is opened.

[0031] Furthermore, the adhesive label can comprise an electronic opening verification element in the form of an RFID transponder, which is coupled to the first label section and comprises a chip and an antenna structure connected to the chip by means of a conductor track. The conductor track extends in particular into the severance region and at least partially covers the severance element. When the container is opened, the conductor track is then severed in a predetermined manner, and the interruption in the conductor track is detected by the RFID transponder. A successful opening of the container provided with the adhesive label can be detected by a reader.

[0032] The adhesive label described helps prevent the threaded element from rotating when the container is opened or a syringe needle is inserted. Furthermore, the adhesive label can provide tamper protection for the container, which can, for example, guarantee or indicate the integrity of a medication package. By clearly indicating that the container has been opened for the first time, the adhesive label can indicate any unintentional or unauthorized reuse of the labeled container after its use. Thus, the adhesive label also counteracts the possibility of tampering with the container.

[0033] According to a further aspect, the invention comprises a use of an embodiment of the described adhesive label for a vessel that can be divided into several parts for fixing a threaded element to a vessel body of the vessel.

[0034] According to a further aspect of the invention, a system comprises a multi-part vessel having a threaded element and a vessel body, as well as an adhesive label applied to the vessel such that a first label portion of the adhesive label is attached to the threaded element and a second label portion of the adhesive label is attached to the vessel body, such that the adhesive label couples the threaded element to the vessel body and counteracts movement of the threaded element relative to the vessel body. The adhesive label can be designed as a full-surface label which is connected to the threaded element and to the vessel body in order to fix it. Furthermore, the adhesive label of the system is preferably designed according to one of the previously described embodiments.

[0035] Because the use and the system relate in particular to or comprise an embodiment of the described adhesive label, the described properties and features of the adhesive label are also disclosed for the use and for the system and vice versa.

[0036] According to a preferred development of the system, the first, flat label section is attached to the threaded element of the vessel and the strip-shaped fixing elements of the comb-like structure of the second label section are attached to the vessel body of the vessel.

[0037] The system can further comprise a closure coupled to the vessel, such that the threaded element is arranged between the vessel body and the closure, with the first label section then extending, in particular, to the closure or onto the closure. In particular, the adhesive label and the threaded element and / or the closure and / or the vessel body are configured in a predetermined manner to coordinate with one another. This takes into account, among other things, the geometries, surface structures, and materials of the interacting components.

[0038] According to a further preferred development, the system comprises an opening detection element coupled to the threaded element and / or the closure and configured to indicate removal of the closure from the container body. Such an opening detection element of the container can be configured alternatively or in addition to the previously described opening detection element of the adhesive label. For example, the closure is connected to the threaded element by means of connecting webs that break open when the container is opened, thereby providing visible evidence of an opening.

[0039] According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for applying an adhesive label to a multi-part vessel having a threaded element and a vessel body comprises providing the vessel with the threaded element and the vessel body and providing the adhesive label having a first label portion and a second label portion adjacent to the first label portion. The method further comprises applying the adhesive label to the vessel such that the first label portion is attached to the threaded element of the vessel and the second label portion is attached to the vessel body of the vessel, such that the adhesive label couples the threaded element to the vessel body and counteracts movement of the threaded element relative to the vessel body.

[0040] The adhesive label is designed, in particular, in one of the previously described configurations, so that the application of the adhesive label comprises attaching the fixing elements of the comb-like structure to the vessel body. The fixing elements are, in particular, wound spirally around the vessel body and secured thereto in such a way that they form a wraparound label with respect to a circumference of the vessel body, and at least one fixing element partially covers another fixing element.

[0041] Using the described application method, it is possible to apply the adhesive label to the vessel in a targeted manner in order to establish a secure and reliable hold for the threaded element and to secure or fix it against undesired rotation relative to the vessel body. Since the method relates in particular to applying or attaching an embodiment of the described adhesive label, the described properties and features of the adhesive label are also disclosed for the method, and vice versa. The described adhesive label also enables, in particular, subsequent fixing of a threaded element relative to a threaded body, for example, of prefilled syringes.

[0042] Furthermore, the adhesive label can be easily and cost-effectively applied to the container and does not require, for example, heat exposure, as is the case with shrink film, which is wrapped around elements to secure them and then shrinks through heat application. However, this also exposes the contents of the container to heat, requiring a dedicated process step in a packaging line. The adhesive label described does not require heat exposure and can be provided in the form of a film with pressure-sensitive adhesive, which can be easily and reliably applied to the container. The use of shrink film can therefore be eliminated.

[0043] Below, the described adhesive label is explained again, largely using the example of a two-part syringe container, which can be implemented in particular as a glass syringe or a plastic syringe with an adapting Luer-Lock thread. However, the properties and characteristics can also be applied to other multi-part containers that have a threaded element coupled as a separate component to an associated container body.

[0044] The adhesive label has a special label structure in which, in particular, the comb-like structure of the second label section serves, on the one hand, to bridge the different circumferences of the Luer Lock thread and the syringe body and, on the other hand, to reliably absorb force when rotational forces occur.

[0045] The adhesive label enables simultaneous detection of the syringe barrel and the outside of the Luer Lock thread and, in various embodiments, also detection of the vessel closure if the adhesive label is also intended to provide a first opening indication, and can therefore be designed with a relatively high adhesion strength.

[0046] The outer surface of the Luer-Lock thread, and optionally also that of the vessel closure, are preferably designed to be flush with the outer surface of the syringe body. This makes it possible to use a full-surface adhesive label, which can be adhered to the syringe body, the Luer-Lock thread, and optionally also to the vessel closure. Furthermore, the adhesive label can also be designed or used as a label, which, in addition to securing the Luer-Lock thread, can optionally also provide a first-opening indicator.

[0047] In a further preferred embodiment, the outer side of the Luer Lock thread and optionally also the outer side of the closure have a surface structure that is particularly suitable for the adhesion of an adhesive label. The threaded element and, if applicable, also the closure are designed to match the adhesive label to be applied, and vice versa. The threaded element and, if applicable, also the closure have, for example, surface structures with macroscopic and / or microscopic features and / or are made of preselected materials to ensure a particularly stable hold of the adhesive label and reliable fixation of the threaded element relative to the vessel body.

[0048] With regard to macroscopic features, the outer surfaces of the Luer-Lock thread and / or the closure can be designed with a relatively large surface area, which is coextensive with the circumference of the syringe body, in order to provide a correspondingly large adhesive surface for the adhesive label. Another possibility is for the surface structure of the outer surface of the Luer-Lock thread and / or the closure to contain macroscopic bulges that correspond to corresponding cutouts in the adhesive label. Through such cutouts in the adhesive label, the bulges on the outer surface of the Luer-Lock thread and / or the closure can be pushed through, creating a mechanical interlock and contributing to a particularly stable hold.The bulges on the outside of the Luer-Lock thread and / or the closure can, for example, be regularly or irregularly distributed nubs or, alternatively, be designed as continuous, outwardly projecting structures that extend essentially perpendicular to or obliquely from a longitudinal axis of the syringe. Such bulges can, for example, have a size of 0.5 mm to 5 mm. Bulges on the threaded element and / or the closure of a Luer-Lock system can also have a size in a range of 1 mm to 2 mm. It is therefore useful to provide correspondingly large recesses in the adhesive label, which are matched to the dimensions of the bulges and are preferably slightly larger.

[0049] With regard to microscopic features, the area intended for the attachment of the adhesive label on the outside of the Luer-Lock thread and / or the closure can be designed to be as smooth as possible to achieve the best possible adhesion of the adhesive of the adhesive label. For particularly flowable adhesives, it can be advantageous for the area on the Luer-Lock thread and / or the closure intended for bonding with the adhesive label to have a predetermined roughness, thereby increasing the overall surface area and thus the interaction with the adhesive.

[0050] With regard to the selection of materials for the threaded element and / or the closure, it is advantageous, for example, to choose plastics with a high surface energy, at least for the outer area intended for bonding with the adhesive label, as this can improve wetting with the pressure-sensitive adhesive. The surface energy of the material represents a measure of how strongly a pressure-sensitive adhesive spreads over the material. Plastics with a relatively high surface energy include polycarbonate and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Alternatively, plastics can be subjected to plasma or corona treatment to specifically increase the surface energy. For example, a threaded element made of polyethylene provides a relatively low surface energy. Suitable pressure-sensitive adhesives for low-energy surfaces include rubber or silicone adhesives.A pressure-sensitive adhesive of the adhesive label is therefore preferably matched to a material of the threaded element and / or the closure or vice versa.

[0051] It may also be advantageous to apply a pressure-sensitive adhesive with high flowability to the label, allowing any unevenness, such as relatively rough surfaces of the threaded element and / or closure, to be fully coated with the adhesive. Examples of particularly flowable adhesives include modified acrylates and synthetic rubber.

[0052] In addition, the container's closure can also be adapted for the attachment of an adhesive label. For example, a two-part surface can be provided in one area of ​​the closure. A lower part of the closure, facing the threaded element, is then specifically designed for the adhesion of the adhesive label, while the upper part, facing away from the threaded element, has, for example, gripping aids such as ridges, which provide a preferred haptic for opening the container.

[0053] In addition, it is conceivable that the closure is designed from the outside to the inside with at least two layers, with an outermost layer being designed for the adhesion of the adhesive label and an innermost layer of the closure meeting the requirements of a primary packaging component.

[0054] The Luer Lock thread or threaded element and the closure of the container can be connected with retaining bars. These then serve, for example, as a first-opening indicator. In such a case, it is sufficient if the adhesive label extends only to a dividing line between the Luer Lock thread and the closure or is applied to the container accordingly, so that the Luer Lock thread element is fixed to the syringe body.

[0055] If the Luer Lock threaded element and the closure are not connected, the adhesive label can extend to the closure of the container. The adhesive label then has, for example, a perforation in the area below the closure and an adhesive neutralization layer above the perforation. When twisted to open the syringe, the adhesive label tears along the perforation, allowing the upper section to be removed along with the closure.

[0056] By at least partially double-layering the adhesive label, a colored area and / or lettering can be exposed when the closure and a label segment are opened and removed, making initial opening even clearer. It is also possible to design a removable partial label or partial element in a targeted manner, which can be used for documentation purposes, for example. Furthermore, it is possible to integrate a tear-off strip into the adhesive label as an opening mechanism. A suitable perforation, possibly together with a bulge in the adhesive label as a grip tab, enables the adhesive label below the closure to be destroyed in a targeted manner using rotation with the tear-off strip, and the closure can be removed together with the upper partial element of the adhesive label, which was arranged above the tear-off strip.The Luer Lock thread is always at least partially bonded to the remaining adhesive label, even after the cap is removed, and thus connected to the syringe body, so that the Luer Lock thread remains affixed to the syringe. The adhesive label can also be designed and applied to the container in such a way that, before the syringe is opened, only the Luer Lock thread is gripped by the adhesive label and fixed relative to the syringe body.

[0057] If the cap and / or the Luer-Lock thread are not flush with the barrel or outer circumference of the syringe, and the diameter of the cap and / or the diameter of the Luer-Lock thread is larger than the diameter of the syringe body, a partial multi-layer adhesive label can compensate for any existing step at the transition from the cap to the Luer-Lock thread and / or at the transition from the Luer-Lock thread to the syringe body. However, the comb structure can already overcome certain diameter differences.

[0058] If a first-opening indicator is desired, this can be provided by visual features that destroy the adhesive label. Furthermore, an electronic indicator can be integrated into the adhesive label. The adhesive label can, in particular, contain an RFID tag or an RFID transponder connected to a printed circuit board. If this circuit board runs over a dividing line between the cap and the threaded element or the syringe body, it is deliberately destroyed when the syringe is first opened. Such an interruption in the circuit board can be detected and read using RFID technology.In order to increase the reading range of the RFID function, in the case of a Luer-Lock thread and / or closure which, for example, is formed with the same circumference as the syringe body, the RFID transponder can be integrated in the area of ​​the adhesive label which is glued to the Luer-Lock thread and / or the closure, so that when reading it, there is no adverse interaction with the contents which are in the syringe body.

[0059] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained using schematic drawings. They show: Figures 1-4 show embodiments of an adhesive label for a multi-part vessel, Figures 5-6 show various embodiments of a system with an adhesive label and a vessel, Figures 7-8 show various embodiments of a vessel with a threaded element and a vessel body, Figures 9-12 show further embodiments of the system with an adhesive label and a vessel, and Figure 13 shows a flow chart for a method for applying an adhesive label to a multi-part vessel.

[0060] Elements of the same design and function are identified by the same reference symbols throughout the figures. For reasons of clarity, not all elements shown may be identified by corresponding reference symbols in all figures.

[0061] The Figures 1-4show exemplary embodiments of an adhesive label 10 for a multi-part container 30, which can be produced cost-effectively and enables reliable fixation of a threaded element 31 of the container 30 relative to a container body 32 of the container 30. Furthermore, the adhesive label 10 can be used to provide reliable proof of first opening with respect to the container 30 provided with the adhesive label 10.

[0062] The adhesive label 10 has a first label section 11 and a second label section 12 adjacent to the first label section 11. The first label section 11 is designed to be attached, in particular glued, to the threaded element 31 when applied to the vessel 30. The second label section 12 is designed to be fastened to the vessel body 32 of the vessel 30 (see, for example, Figures 5 , 6 and 9). The two label sections 11 and 12 of the adhesive label 10 preferably form adjacent parts of a common material web.

[0063] The first label section 11 is flat. The second label section 12 has a comb-like structure 13 with a plurality of strip-shaped fixing elements 131, 132, which are designed to be attached to the vessel body 32 of the vessel 30, so that the adhesive label 10 couples the threaded element 31 to the vessel body 32 and counteracts any movement of the threaded element 31 relative to the vessel body 32.

[0064] In this way, the threaded element 31, which is usually placed and plugged onto the vessel body 32, can be reliably fixed and secured against undesired rotation. It is a finding in connection with the present invention that a simple attachment of the threaded element 31, for example to the vessel 30 in the form of a syringe, is often insufficient. It may happen that when a syringe needle is screwed in, a simple mechanical or adhesive coupling between the threaded element 31 and the syringe body 32 may not hold, and the threaded element 31 may rotate undesirably, particularly if the user does not hold the threaded element 31 firmly while screwing in the syringe needle.

[0065] The Figures 1 and 2show an embodiment of the adhesive label 10, each in a schematic view. The second label section 12 has a plurality of fixing elements 131 and 132 that are aligned differently. Relative to a longitudinal axis LA, which also corresponds to an alignment with respect to a longitudinal axis of the vessel 30 to which the adhesive label 10 is to be applied, the second label section 12 has four fixing elements 131 and three fixing elements 132 that are directed towards one another and each enclose an angle A1 or A2 with an edge of the first label section 11 facing them. The four fixing elements 131 are aligned essentially parallel to one another. The three fixing elements 132 are also aligned essentially parallel to one another. In alternative embodiments, a different number of fixing elements 131 and 132 can also be formed.Furthermore, the same number of fixing elements 131 and 132 can be formed on both sides, or the adhesive label 10 can have more fixing elements 132 and 131 than fixing elements 131.

[0066] The angle A1 is in particular less than 90°, and the angle A2 is in particular greater than 90°. For example, the angle A2 has a value dependent on the angle A1 and is determined by the relationship A2 = 180° - A1. In this way, the fixing elements 131 and 132 are oriented toward one another and overlap in a diamond shape on the vessel body 32. The adhesive label 10 has a predetermined length L, which is in particular designed to match a circumference of the vessel 30 or the vessel body 32 and / or the threaded element 31. The adhesive label 10 preferably implements a wraparound label, so that the length L is greater than the circumference of the threaded element 31 and / or the vessel body 32.

[0067] Particularly preferably, the adhesive label 10 has a length L1 in the section in which the fixing elements 131 are formed, which is designed such that it approximately corresponds to the circumference of the container body 32 to be bonded. After application, the fixing elements 132 of the comb-like structure 13 come to lie crossed on the fixing elements 131, or vice versa. This counteracts the rotation of the threaded element 31 particularly reliably.

[0068] In an alternative embodiment of the adhesive label 10, the length L is predetermined to be approximately equal to the circumference of the container 30, so that the adhesive label 10 forms an all-round label. Alternatively, the length L of the adhesive label 10 can also be smaller than a circumference of the container 30, so that the adhesive label 10 covers only a portion of an outer surface of the threaded element 31 and / or the container body 32 with respect to the circumference. In a further alternative embodiment, the fixing elements 131 and 132 can be oriented away from one another, so that, for example, the fixing elements 131 form an angle A2 and the fixing elements 132 form an angle A1 with the first label portion 11.

[0069] The adhesive label 10 can be single-layered or multi-layered. In terms of height or width, the adhesive label 10 can partially or completely cover the container 30 from bottom to top, or extend from a foot end of the container body 32 to a head end of a closure 33 of the container 30 (see also Figure 5 ). Alternatively, the adhesive label 10 can also extend beyond a height or width of the container 30 and, in addition to an outer side, can also be applied to the closure 33 of the container 30.

[0070] The Figures 3 and 4show further embodiments of the adhesive label 10 in a schematic view, in which four fixing elements 131 are provided, which are arranged in essentially the same orientation. It is also illustrated that the adhesive label 10 has an adhesive layer 15 that completely or partially covers an underside of the adhesive label 10. The adhesive layer 15 serves in particular for the simple and reliable attachment of the adhesive label 10 to the threaded element 31 and the container body 32. Figure 3 the adhesive label 10 has a continuous adhesive layer 15 and forms a completely adhesive underside.

[0071] According to the embodiment in Figure 4The adhesive label 10 has an adhesive-free region 113, which is specifically designed to match an area in which a severing element 14 is provided. The severing element 14 can, in particular, be designed in the form of a perforation, which enables simple and controlled severing of the adhesive label 10. An upper, first partial element 111 of the first label section 11 is adhesively bonded to the closure 33 of the container 30 before the container 30 is opened, while a second, lower partial element 112 is attached to the threaded element 31 of the container 30. The adhesive-free region 113 and the severing element 14 are then assigned to a transition region between the closure 33 and the threaded element 31.When the vessel 30 applied with the adhesive label 10 is opened, it can be severed along the severing element 14, so that the first sub-element 111, together with the closure 33, can be removed from the second sub-element 112 and the vessel body 32. Such a removable sub-element 111 can also be used, in particular, for documentation purposes and, for example, can be affixed to a patient file.

[0072] The Figures 5 to 6show various exemplary embodiments of a system 1, which comprises the vessel 30 with the threaded element 31, the vessel body 32 and the closure 33, as well as an embodiment of the adhesive label 10. The closure 33 is coupled to the vessel body 32 in a twistable or removable manner, so that the threaded element is arranged between the closure 33 and the vessel body 32. The vessel 30 or the closure 33 and the adhesive label 10 are designed to match one another, so that knob-shaped bulges 34 on an outer side of the closure 33 are taken into account by means of complementarily designed recesses 16 in the first label section 11. The same can analogously apply to the threaded element 31, which can have bulges 34 that are taken into account by means of the adhesive label 10, so that in addition to an adhesive coupling, a mechanical interlocking of the adhesive label 10 with the threaded element 31 and / or the closure 33 can be established.

[0073] The recesses or cutouts 16 of the adhesive label 10 can be formed by punching out predetermined geometries. The upper section of the vessel 31, 33 can, in particular, represent a thread of a Luer-Lock system of a COC / COP syringe. Figure 5 The embodiment shown represents a possibility for a macroscopic interlocking of the adhesive label 10 with the outside of the Luer-Lock thread 31.

[0074] The Figure 6shows a further embodiment of the system 1, in which the vessel 30 or the Luer-Lock thread 31 and the adhesive label 10 are designed to match one another. The closure 33 or the threaded element 31 has an elongated, annular bead or elevation 35, which is taken into account by a correspondingly elongated recess 16 in the first label section 11 of the adhesive label 10. The second label section 12 is attached to the vessel body 32 and couples the threaded element 31 to the vessel body 32, so that a relative movement of the two components is prevented or at least counteracted. The adhesive label 10 can be designed to cover the entire surface or, preferably, as in the Figures 1 to 4 illustrated, have a comb-like structure 13 which forms the second label section 12.

[0075] The Figure 7shows a schematic sectional view of the vessel 30 with the closure 33, which is coupled to the exposed or attached threaded element 31 by means of a plurality of connecting webs 36. The threaded element 31 is, for example, mechanically hooked to the vessel body 32 and coupled force- and / or form-fittingly, or alternatively or optionally additionally glued to it. In addition, the threaded element 31 is secured against undesired rotation relative to the vessel body 32 by means of the adhesive label 10 to be applied. Figure 8 shows a further embodiment of the vessel 30, which has a similar structure to that shown in Figure 7 has.

[0076] The Figure 9 schematically illustrates the system 1, in which the adhesive label 10 is attached to the vessel 30 according to the Figures 7 and 8 is attached. The Figure 9also shows an open state of the vessel 30. The closure 33 was removed from the vessel body 32 by turning and / or pulling, thus opening the vessel 30. According to the Figures 7 and 8 the connecting webs 36 are broken open by turning and / or pulling off the closure 33 and remain coupled to the closure 33 or to the vessel body 32 as partial segments 361 and 362 of a respective connecting web 36. The broken connecting webs 36 or the remaining partial segments 361 and 362 can, in particular, realize proof of first opening, which clearly indicates that a first opening has already occurred. According to such an embodiment, the adhesive label 10 can only extend to the threaded element 31 and can not itself have a severance region. Alternatively, the adhesive label 10 can extend to the closure 33 and additionally have a severance region 141 (see Figures 10 to 12 ).

[0077] In Figure 10 An embodiment of the system 1 is shown with the adhesive label 10, which extends to the closure 33 of the container 30 and which has the cutting area 141 with the cutting element 14 in the form of one or more perforations between the first and second label sections 11 and 12. The perforation enables a controlled and predetermined tearing of the adhesive label 10 and is incorporated into the adhesive label 10 as a specifically formed line of weakness.

[0078] The Figures 11 and 12 show further examples of the system 1, which are based on an embodiment according to Figure 10 can be based on. The Figures 11 and 12each illustrate an open state of the container 30, in which a completed initial opening is indicated by means of an opening verification element 18 of the adhesive label 10. The adhesive label 10 has been severed in a predetermined manner upon opening the container 30, so that the upper, first partial element 111 of the first label section 11 remains on the closure 33 and the lower, second partial element 112 of the first label section 11 remains on the threaded element 31 of the container 30. The opening verification element 18, in the form of lettering, represents a clearly recognizable indication that the container 30 is open or that an initial opening has already occurred. The opening verification element 18 can be provided by at least partial double or multi-layering of the adhesive label 10.For example, the first label section 11 is designed in two layers and has the inscription "OPEN" in the cutting area 141 on a lower label layer facing the threaded element 31.

[0079] The first partial element 111 of the first label section 11 then extends, for example, to the second partial element 112 or at least to a section of the second partial element 112 and covers the lettering when the container 30 is not opened or the adhesive label 10 is not severed, so that the opening-proof element 18 is not yet visible from the outside. Alternatively, the first label section 11 can also be designed to be detachable from the second label section 12, so that the first label section 11 covers part of the second label section 12 and a double layer is created in the area of ​​the opening-proof element 18. Upon opening, the first partial element 111 or the first label section 11 is removed together with the closure 33.Thus, the overlap area between the first and second partial elements 111 and 112 or between the first and second label sections 11 and 12 is separated and the opening detection element 18 is exposed.

[0080] Figure 12shows a further embodiment of the adhesive label 10, in which the opening detection element 18 has a first sub-element 181 and a second sub-element 182. The first sub-element 181 can be formed as an extended section of the first label section 11 or of the upper, first sub-element 111, which covers the second sub-element 182 when the container 30 is not opened. The adhesive label 10 has, for example, in the region of the opening element 18, a perforation that tears in a predetermined manner when the container 30 is opened and the closure 33 is removed. In this way, the second sub-element 182 is exposed, which is designed, for example, as a clearly recognizable colored area.In particular, the colored area of ​​the second partial element 182 serves as an initial opening indication, but the first partial element 181 of the opening detection element 18, which protrudes from the first partial element 111 of the first label section 11, also forms a recognizable initial opening indication as a label flag.

[0081] Figure 13 shows an exemplary embodiment of a flow diagram of a method for applying or attaching the adhesive label 10 to the multi-part container 30. In a step S1, the container 30 is provided with the threaded element 31 and the container body 32 and, if appropriate, with the closure 33. The container 30 can be designed in a predetermined manner in accordance with the adhesive label 10 to be applied and, for example, provide a flush surface structure 37, which is advantageously designed for reliable adhesion of the adhesive label 10 (see Figure 10 ).

[0082] This may include the material of the threaded element 31 and / or the closure 33 being a material with a high surface energy, so that a pressure-sensitive adhesive of the adhesive layer 15 of the adhesive label 10 is advantageously distributed over the outer side of the threaded element 31 and / or the closure 33 and forms a reliable adhesive force. Alternatively or additionally, the surface structure 37 on the outer side of the threaded element 31 and / or the closure 33 can be deliberately roughened, enabling advantageous adhesion due to the roughness.

[0083] Furthermore, the adhesive label 10 is provided with the first and second label sections 11 and 21. The adhesive label 10 can, in particular, be provided with the adhesive layer 15 and a comb-like structure 13, which enable reliable attachment to the vessel and counteract unwanted rotation of the threaded element 31 relative to the vessel body 32. The adhesive label 10 can further be provided with one or more recesses 16, which take into account a corresponding surface structure 37 with elevations 34 and / or 35.

[0084] In a further step S2, the adhesive label 10 is attached to the vessel 30 in such a way that the first label section 11 is fastened to the threaded element 31 and, if appropriate, also to the closure 33 of the vessel 30.

[0085] In a further step S3, the adhesive label 10 is attached to the vessel 30 in such a way that the second label section 12 is attached to the vessel body 32 of the vessel 30.

[0086] Steps S2 and S3 can be performed sequentially, simultaneously, or in reverse order. In each case, it is ensured that the adhesive label 10 is applied to the container 30 in such a way that it couples the threaded element 31 to the container body 32 and counteracts any movement of the threaded element 31 relative to the container body 32.

[0087] The described adhesive label 10 enables a simple and cost-effective reliable fixation of a Luer-Lock thread on a syringe, thus counteracting any rotation of the threaded element 31 when the container 30 is opened or a syringe needle is screwed in. This particularly applies to syringes made of glass or plastic and having a plastic Luer-Lock thread. The thread is fixed to the syringe, but may not be sufficiently connected to the syringe body to withstand rotational forces. When the Luer-Lock thread is connected to a syringe needle, the force applied can be so great that the simple fixation breaks and causes the Luer-Lock thread to rotate. As a result, the syringe needle may also be incorrectly attached to the container 30.

[0088] The adhesive label 10 can contribute to a stable and reliable hold of the threaded element 31 on the vessel body 32. The adhesive label 10 is wrapped, for example, around the syringe body 32 of the syringe 30 as well as around the Luer-Lock thread 31 and optionally also around a syringe cap or the closure 33 of the syringe 30. The choice of a pressure-sensitive adhesive for the adhesive layer 15 can be made, in particular, in coordination with a microscopic surface quality of the syringe body 32, the Luer-Lock thread 31 and / or the closure 33. In addition to securing the threaded element 31, the adhesive label 10 can provide additional functions, such as a first-opening indicator (also electronically via an integrated RFID functionality) and protection against UV radiation, against the penetration or leakage of a solvent, air humidity and / or other small-molecule substances. List of reference symbols

[0089] 1 System 10 Adhesive label 11 First label section 111 First partial element of the first label section 112 Second partial element of the first label section 113 Adhesive-free part of the label section 12 Second label section 13 Comb structure 131 Fixing elements 132 Fixing elements 14 Cutting element / perforation / film element 141 Cutting area 15 Adhesive surface 16 Recess 18 Opening detection element 181 First partial element of the opening detection element 182 Second partial element of the opening detection element 30 Vessel / syringe 31 Threaded element / Luer-Lock thread 32 Vessel body / syringe body 33 Closure 34 Elevation 35 Elevation 36 Connecting webs between the closure and the threaded element 361 Partial segment of the connecting web 362 Partial segment of the connecting web 37Surface structure of the threaded element / closure A1first angle A2second angle Llength of the adhesive label L1length of a section of the adhesive label LAlongitudinal axis S(i)step of a method for applying an adhesive label

Claims

1. An adhesive label (10) for a multi-part container (30) having a threaded element (31) and a container body (32), comprising: - a first, flat label portion (11) that is designed to be fastened to the threaded element (31) of the container (30), and - a second label portion (12) which is adjacent to the first label portion (11) and has a comb-like structure (13) with a plurality of mutually spaced, strip-shaped fixing elements (131, 132) which are designed to be fastened to the container body (32) of the container (30), so that the adhesive label (10) couples the threaded element (31) to the container body (32) and counteracts a movement of the threaded element (31) relative to the container body (32).

2. The adhesive label (10) according to claim 1, in which the strip-shaped fixing elements (131, 132) each have a predefined orientation transversely to the first label portion (11) and each enclose a predefined angle (A1, A2) with an adjacent edge of the first label portion (11).

3. The adhesive label (10) according to claim 2, in which one or more strip-shaped fixing elements (131) form an angle (A1) of less than 90° with the adjacent edge of the first label portion (11) and / or one or more strip-shaped fixing elements (132) enclose an angle (A2) greater than 90° with the adjacent edge of the first label portion (11).

4. The adhesive label (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in which the first label portion (11) is further designed to be fastened to a closure (33) of the container (30), so that the adhesive label (10) couples the closure (33) to the container body (32).

5. The adhesive label (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in which the first label portion (11) is designed in coordination with a surface structure (37) of the threaded element (31) and / or of the closure (33) and comprises a specified punched hole or recess (16) and / or has an at least partial multilayer structure.

6. The adhesive label (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising: an adhesive layer (15) arranged on an underside of the first and / or the second label portion (11, 12), so that the adhesive label (10) can be arranged on the container (30) by means of sticking, the adhesive layer (15) being designed in a predefined manner in coordination with a material or a surface structure (37) of the threaded element (31) and / or of the container body (32) and / or of the closure (33).

7. The adhesive label (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in which the first label portion (11) has a severing element (14), so that upon opening the container (30) provided with the applied adhesive label (10), the adhesive label (11) can be severed in a predefined manner along the severing element (14) and at least a first sub-element (111) of the first label portion (11) can be removed together with the closure (33) of the container (30) from a second sub-element (112) of the first label portion (11) and the container body (32) of the container (30).

8. The adhesive label (10) according to claim 7 in combination with claim 6, in which the adhesive label (10) comprises an adhesive-free area in a region of the severing element (14).

9. The adhesive label (10) according to any one of claims 7 to 8, comprising: an RFID transponder which is coupled to the first label portion (11) and comprises a chip and an antenna structure which is connected to the chip by means of a conductor track, the conductor track covering the severing element (14) at least in sections.

10. A system (1), comprising: - a multi-part syringe (30) comprising a threaded element (31) for receiving a syringe needle and comprising a syringe body (32), and - an adhesive label (10) which is applied to the syringe (30) in such a way that a first label portion (11) of the adhesive label (10) is fastened to the threaded element (31) and a second label portion (12) of the adhesive label (10) is fastened to the syringe body (32), so that the adhesive label (10) couples the threaded element (31) to the syringe body (32) and counteracts a movement of the threaded element (31) relative to the syringe body (32).

11. The system (1) according to claim 10, in which the adhesive label (10) is designed according to any one of claims 1 to 9, so that the first, flat label portion (11) is fastened to the threaded element (31) of the syringe (30) and the strip-shaped fixing elements (131, 132) of the comb-like structure (13) of the second label portion (12) are fastened to the syringe body (32) of the syringe (30).

12. The system (1) according to claim 10 or 11, in which the syringe (30) further comprises a closure (33) which is coupled to the syringe body (32), so that the threaded element (31) is arranged between the syringe body (32) and the closure (33), the first label portion (11) extending up to the closure (33).

13. The system (1) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, comprising: - a closure (33) which is coupled to the syringe body (32), so that the threaded element (31) is arranged between the syringe body (32) and the closure (33), and - a tamper-proof element (36, 361, 362) which is coupled to the threaded element (31) and / or to the closure (33) and is designed to indicate removal of the closure (33) from the syringe body (32).

14. A method of applying an adhesive label (10) to a multi-part syringe (30) including a threaded element (31) for receiving a syringe needle and including a syringe body (32), comprising: - providing the syringe (30) comprising the threaded element (31) and the syringe body (32), - providing the adhesive label (10) comprising a first label portion (11) and a second label portion (12) adjacent to the first label portion (11), and - fastening the adhesive label (10) to the syringe (30) by means of fastening the first label portion (11) to the threaded element (31) of the syringe (30) and fastening the second label portion (12) to the syringe body (32) of the syringe (30), so that the adhesive label (10) couples the threaded element (31) to the syringe body (32) and counteracts a movement of the threaded element (31) relative to the syringe body (32).

15. The method according to claim 14, in which the first label portion (11) of the adhesive label (10) is formed to be flat and the second label portion (12) of the adhesive label (10) has a comb-like structure (13) with a plurality of strip-shaped fixing elements (131, 132), and in which the process of attaching the adhesive label (10) to the syringe (30) comprises: fastening the fixing elements (131, 132) to the syringe body (32) of the syringe (30) so that they form an overlap-type wrap-around label with respect to a circumference of the syringe body (32), and at least one fixing element (131, 132) covers a further fixing element (131, 132) in sections.

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