Tamper-evident closure

Abstract

Disclosed is a closure (1) having a tamper-evident feature (5) which is reshaped to connect the tamper-evident feature (5) to a container neck (2). Also disclosed are a method and system (8) for carrying out the method, and a molding stack (102) for producing the closure. The tamper-evident feature may be a band (5), a part (505) of a cylindrical skirt (504), or a panel (705) formed on a cylindrical skirt (704). By applying heat, the band (5) can be deformed inward to create a lip (52) for engaging a flange (20) at the container neck (2), or by applying heat, the tamper-evident feature (305) can be welded to the flange (220).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to closures with tamper-evident devices. More specifically, although not exclusively, the aspects disclosed herein include a molded closure for sealing a beverage container, a closure having a tamper-evident device(s) that engages with the beverage container and is stackable, a mold and a molding system for molding such a closure, a system for punching, slit-forming, or cutting such a closure, a system for installing and / or engaging a closure tamper-evident device on a container neck, and methods related to one or more of the above.

Background Art

[0002] Containers such as bottles are generally provided with a closure such as a cap for fluidly sealing the container.

[0003] Plastic beverage closures typically include four main functional members: a tubular body, a fixing function part(s), a sealing function part(s), and a tamper-evident function part(s). The tubular body typically has an annular top wall, and an annular side wall that hangs down from the top wall. The side wall typically takes the form of a cylindrical skirt that extends vertically from the peripheral portion of the top wall. The fixing function part usually has either a thread or a snap fit, which are typically formed integrally with the inner surface of the tubular body and adjacent to the container opening, such as the neck of a bottle. One or more sealing function parts are used to seal the cap to the bottle and prevent leakage.

[0004] One known tamper-evident feature comprises a band reliably attached to the open end of a tubular body of a closure by a series of bridges. The band may have a series of tabs connected to the bottom of the band by a flexible hinge, which can extend upward and downward. When the closure is secured to the tabs, the tabs engage with the undercut surfaces of the outer flange or pilfer bead of the container neck. In this configuration, as the closure loosens from the container for a first time, the tabs come into contact with the flange, thereby preventing further upward movement of the tabs. As the closure continues to loosen progressively beyond this point, the reliably attached connection is subjected to tension, causing it to break the bridges, thereby separating the tamper-evident band from the body of the closure. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0005] The aspects of this disclosure, though not exclusive in whole, relate to molded articles, as well as molding stacks, molds, molding systems, systems for drilling, slitting, or cutting molded articles, systems for placing and / or engaging molded articles with other articles, and methods relating to one or more of the above.

[0006] Aspects of the present disclosure relate, in particular, but not exclusively, to closures, molding stacks, molds, molding systems, systems for drilling, slitting, or cutting closures, systems for installing and / or engaging closure tamper-evident devices on the neck of a container, and methods related to one or more of the above. Closures may include molded closures. Closures may include polymer closures. Closures may include plastic closures. Closures may include thermoplastic closures.

[0007] According to a first broad embodiment, a method for engaging a molded article with another article is provided.

[0008] Another broader aspect relates to a method for installing a closure, such as a molded and / or polymer and / or plastic and / or thermoplastic closure, on the neck of a container. The method may, but is not required, include arranging the closure across the neck of the container. The method may, but is not required, include engaging a tamper-evident feature, such as one or more tamper-evident features, with the neck of the container.

[0009] The method may, though not required, include reshaping at least a portion of the closure and / or at least a portion of the container neck to engage, for example, an anti-tampering feature(s) with the container neck.

[0010] Another broad aspect disclosed herein is a method for installing a molded closure on the neck of a container, comprising: positioning the closure across the neck of the container; and reshaping the closure or a portion of the neck of the container to engage one or more tamper-evident features with the neck of the container.

[0011] The method of reshaping a portion of the closure is not mandatory, but may include deforming or shrinking a portion of the closure to engage, for example, an anti-tampering component(s) with the container neck. The method of reshaping a portion of the container neck is not mandatory, but may include deforming or shrinking a portion of the container neck to engage, for example, an anti-tampering component(s) with the container neck.

[0012] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for installing a closure on the neck of a container, the method comprising: arranging the closure across the neck of the container; and deforming or shrinking the closure or a portion of the neck of the container to engage one or more tamper-evident features with the neck of the container.

[0013] Reshaping, deforming, or shrinking a portion of the closure is not mandatory, but may include plastically reshaping, deforming, or shrinking a portion of the closure. Reshaping, deforming, or shrinking a portion of the container neck is not mandatory, but may include plastically reshaping, deforming, or shrinking a portion of the container neck. Reshaping, deforming, or shrinking a portion of the container neck is not mandatory, but may include curling a portion of the closure.

[0014] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for installing a molded and / or thermoplastic closure on the neck of a container, the method comprising: positioning the closure across the neck of the container; and plastically reshaping, deforming, or shrinking the closure or a portion of the neck of the container to engage one or more tamper-evident features with the neck of the container.

[0015] Reshaping, deforming, or shrinking the closure or a portion of the container neck is not essential, but can be done while the closure is in the closed position at the container neck.

[0016] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for installing a molded and / or thermoplastic closure on the neck of a container, the method comprising: positioning the closure across the neck of the container; and reshaping, deforming, or shrinking the closure or a portion of the neck of the container, while the closure is in the closed position on the neck of the container, to engage one or more tamper-evident features with the neck of the container.

[0017] The method may, though not required, include applying heat to a portion of the closure or container neck to, for example, deform or shrink the closure or portion of the container neck, and / or engaging the tamper-proof feature(s) with the container neck. The method may, though not required, include irradiating a portion of the closure or container neck to, for example, deform or shrink the closure or portion of the container neck, and / or engaging the tamper-proof feature(s) with the container neck. Applying heat to a portion of the closure or container neck is not required, but may include irradiating a portion of the closure or container neck, or subjecting a portion of the closure or container neck to heat.

[0018] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for installing a closure on the neck of a container, the method comprising: arranging the closure across the neck of the container; and irradiating or applying heat to the closure or a portion of the neck of the container to engage one or more tamper-evident features with the neck of the container.

[0019] Heat can be applied with a difference. The method may include irradiating or applying heat to one side, e.g., the first side, rather than the other side, e.g., the second side, of the closure or a portion of the container neck. The method may include irradiating or applying heat to the outside of the closure or a portion of the container neck, rather than the inside, or irradiating or applying heat to the inside, rather than the outside. Preferably, the method includes irradiating or applying heat to the outside of the closure or a portion of the container neck, rather than the inside.

[0020] Another broader embodiment is a method for engaging a molded article with another article, the method comprising irradiating a second side of a portion of the molded article, opposite to a first side, or irradiating the first side, or applying heat thereto, thereby engaging the molded article with the other article.

[0021] The method may include cooling a portion of a second side before, after, or while applying heat to a first side.

[0022] In some embodiments, applying heat to a first side may include irradiating an outer surface with a laser to create a predetermined temperature differential between an outer surface and an inner surface of a second side.

[0023] Another broad aspect is a method of engaging a shaped article with another article, the method including irradiating an inner surface of a portion of the shaped article or the other article, or irradiating or applying heat to an outer surface thereof without applying heat thereto, thereby engaging the shaped article with the other article.

[0024] The method may include, for example, irradiating an outer surface, or cooling a portion of an inner surface before, after, or while applying heat to the outer surface.

[0025] In other embodiments, applying heat to a first side may include irradiating an inner surface with a laser to create a predetermined temperature differential between an inner surface and an outer surface of a second side.

[0026] Another broad aspect is a method of engaging a shaped article with another article, the method including irradiating an outer surface of a portion of the shaped article or the other article, or irradiating or applying heat to an inner surface thereof without applying heat thereto, thereby engaging the shaped article with the other article.

[0027] The method may include, for example, irradiating an inner surface, or cooling a portion of an outer surface before, after, or while applying heat to the inner surface.

[0028] Irradiating or applying heat to an outer surface or an inner surface may include, for example, irradiating the surface with a laser to create a predetermined temperature differential between the outer surface and the inner surface.

[0029] Cooling can be carried out using a jet of a cooling fluid, for example, a fluid such as air. The cooling fluid is not essential, but it can be cooled. The temperature of the cooling fluid may be the same as the ambient temperature, or further, it may be above the ambient temperature.

[0030] A part of the molded article may include a connecting portion. When heat is applied with a difference between the outer surface and the inner surface of the molded article, the connecting portion can be adapted, for example, to be reshaped in a post - molding operation.

[0031] Another broad aspect relates to a molded article that includes a connecting portion that is reshaped in a post - molding operation when heat is applied with a difference between the outer surface and the inner surface of the molded article.

[0032] The molded article may include a polyalkylene terephthalate material such as polyethylene terephthalate. In some embodiments, the polyethylene terephthalate material may include an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dL / g. In further embodiments, the polyethylene terephthalate material may include an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.7 dL / g. The polyethylene terephthalate material may include an intrinsic viscosity of 0.4 dL / g to 0.8 dL / g. In some embodiments, the polyethylene terephthalate material may include an intrinsic viscosity of 0.4 dL / g to 0.7 dL / g.

[0033] The polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material may include a multimodal PET. The PET can be formed of a first PET having a first molecular weight. The PET material can be formed of a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

[0034] In addition or alternatively, the molded article may include a different material or polymer material such as a polylactic acid or polylactide (PLA) material, or any other suitable material.

[0035] The molded article may include a closure. Other articles may include a container neck.

[0036] The parts to which heat is applied may include the tamper-evident features of the closure. The connecting structure may include the tamper-evident features. The tamper-evident features may include tamper-evident bands or sleeves.

[0037] Alternatively, the portion to which heat is applied may include a portion of the container neck. This portion of the container neck can be deformed to engage with the tamper-evident band of the closure.

[0038] In some embodiments, the molded article includes a container neck. In such embodiments, the connecting portion may include a part of the container neck that is deformable to engage with, for example, a tamper-evident band of the closure.

[0039] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for forming a closure using a polyethylene terephthalate material having an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dL / g.

[0040] Polyethylene terephthalate material may have an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.76 dL / g. Polyethylene terephthalate material may have an intrinsic viscosity of 0.4 dL / g to 0.8 dL / g, for example, 0.44 dL / g to 0.76 dL / g, or 0.4 dL / g to 0.7 dL / g. At a minimum, the tamper-evident portion of the closure can be formed from polyethylene terephthalate material having an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dL / g, for example, 0.76 dL / g, or less than 0.7 dL / g. The tamper-evident portion may include a tamper-evident band or sleeve.

[0041] The intrinsic viscosity of a molded closure, for example, after molding, can be less than 0.7 dL / g, or between 0.3 dL / g and 0.7 dL / g, for example, 0.55 dL / g and 0.7 dL / g. In some cases, the intrinsic viscosity of a molded closure, for example, after molding, can be less than 0.66 dL / g, or between 0.34 dL / g and 0.66 dL / g. In other cases, the intrinsic viscosity of a molded closure, for example, after molding, can be less than 0.6 dL / g, or between 0.3 dL / g and 0.6 dL / g.

[0042] Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material may include multimodal PET. PET can be formed from a first PET having a first molecular weight. PET material can be formed from a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

[0043] Another embodiment relates to a closure comprising a polyethylene terephthalate material having an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.7 dL / g.

[0044] The polyethylene terephthalate material of the closure may have an intrinsic viscosity of 0.3 dL / g to 0.7 dL / g. In some cases, the polyethylene terephthalate material of the closure may have an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.66 dL / g, or between 0.34 dL / g and 0.66 dL / g. In other cases, the polyethylene terephthalate material of the closure may have an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.6 dL / g, or between 0.3 dL / g and 0.6 dL / g. The closure may include a tamper-evident feature that can be formed from polyethylene terephthalate material having an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.7 dL / g. The tamper-evident feature may include a tamper-evident band or sleeve.

[0045] Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material may include multimodal PET. PET can be formed from a first PET having a first molecular weight. PET material can be formed from a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

[0046] Engaging the tamper-proofing component(s) with the container neck is not mandatory, but may include irradiating or heating at least a portion of the container neck or closure, for example, at least a portion of the tamper-proofing component(s). The method is not mandatory, but may include reshaping, deforming, or shrinking the tamper-proofing component(s), for example, engaging the tamper-proofing component(s) with the container neck. In addition, or alternatively, the method is not mandatory, but may include reshaping, deforming, or shrinking the container neck, for example, engaging the container neck with the tamper-proofing component(s).

[0047] The method may, though not required, include irradiating or applying heat to the tamper-evident feature(s) to reshape, deform, or shrink the tamper-evident feature(s), and / or engaging the tamper-evident feature(s) with the container neck. The method may, though not required, include irradiating or applying heat to the container neck to reshape, deform, or shrink a portion of the container neck, and / or engaging the container neck with the tamper-evident feature(s).

[0048] Reshaping, deforming, or shrinking the tamper-proof function(s) may include curling the tamper-proof function(s). In embodiments in which the tamper-proof function(s) include a tamper-proof band, reshaping, deforming, or shrinking the tamper-proof function(s) may include curling the tamper-proof band, for example, the free edge or free edge portion of the tamper-proof band.

[0049] Engaging the tamper-evident (tamper-evident) component(s) with the container neck may include movably engaging the tamper-evident (tamper-evident) component(s) with the container neck. Engaging the tamper-evident (tamper-evident) component(s) with the container neck prevents the tamper-evident (tamper-evident) component(s) from being removed from the container neck when the closure is removed from the container neck.

[0050] However, by engaging the tamper-evident feature(s) with the container neck, it is possible, for example, to restrict at least one degree of movement while allowing one or more other degrees of movement. In some cases, by engaging the tamper-evident feature(s) with the container neck in this manner, it becomes possible for them to move or rotate relative to each other, for example, allowing the closure to loosen from the container neck or at least rotate relative to the container neck.

[0051] It should be understood that engaging the tamper-evident feature with the container neck may include, for example, a form of close contact between them when the tamper-evident feature contracts on the container neck. In this regard, such engagement may include simply connecting the tamper-evident feature(s) to the container neck so that the tamper-evident feature(s) are held on the container neck and remain on the container neck when the closure loosens or otherwise opens, allowing for the distribution of the contents of the container or access to the contents.

[0052] In other embodiments, the method may, although not essential, include welding the tamper-evident feature(s) to engage the tamper-evident feature(s) with the neck of the container.

[0053] Engaging the tamper-evident (tamper-evident) component(s) with the container neck is not mandatory, but may include attaching the tamper-evident (tamper-evident) component(s) to the container neck. Engaging the tamper-evident (tamper-evident) component(s) with the container neck is not mandatory, but may include connecting the tamper-evident (tamper-evident) component(s) to the container neck. Engaging the tamper-evident (tamper-evident) component(s) with the container neck is not mandatory, but may include fixing the tamper-evident (tamper-evident) component(s) to the container neck.

[0054] The tamper-evident feature, or each tamper-evident feature, can be destructibly connected to the closure so that, for example, the tamper-evident feature remains attached to the container neck when the closure is removed from the container neck. The tamper-evident feature, or each tamper-evident feature, can be destructibly connected to the closure by a fragile wire. The fragile wire can be configured to serve a purpose when the closure is removed from the container neck, for example, by securing the tamper-evident feature to the container neck.

[0055] Alternatively, the tamper-evident feature, or each tamper-evident feature, may be configured to remain attached to the closure when the closure is removed from the neck of the container. In such a case, the tamper-evident feature, or each tamper-evident feature, may be configured to deform, for example, mechanically when the closure is removed or when the closure is first removed.

[0056] Another broader aspect relates to a method for installing a closure on the neck of a container, the method comprising: arranging the closure across the neck of the container; and irradiating or applying heat to one or more tamper-evident features to engage the tamper-evident feature(s) with the neck of the container.

[0057] The method may include irradiating or applying heat to at least a portion of the closure to engage, for example, the tamper-evident component(s) with the container neck, centered on at least a portion of the closure.

[0058] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for installing a closure on the neck of a container, the method comprising: positioning the closure across the neck of the container; irradiating or applying heat to the closure or a portion of the neck of the container, centering on at least a portion of the periphery of the closure; and engaging one or more tamper-evident components with the neck of the container, centering on at least a portion of the periphery of the closure or the neck of the container.

[0059] Another broader embodiment is a method for installing a closure on the neck of a container, comprising: positioning the closure across the neck of the container; irradiating or applying heat to one or more tamper-evident features around at least a portion of the closure, thereby engaging the tamper-evident features(or multiple features) with the neck of the container, wherein the tamper-evident features, or at least a portion thereof, are configured to be cut off from the closure when the closure is removed from the neck of the container during use, thereby securing the tamper-evident features to the neck of the container.

[0060] The method may include generating a visual indicator that can show reshaping when the closure or container neck is reshaped. The method may include, for example, crystallizing the reshaped portion of the closure or container neck by heating. The crystallization may be a visual indicator or can provide a visual indicator. The method may include changing the color or opacity of the reshaped portion of the closure or container neck, for example, the color may be a visual indicator or provide a visual indicator. The method may include causing reshaping of the closure or a portion of the closure by an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period of time. The method may include causing reshaping of the container or a portion of the container by an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period of time. The additive may include a photosensitive additive.

[0061] The tamper-proof function(s)(or multiple units) may be located on the closure or form part of the closure.

[0062] Another broader embodiment disclosed herein relates, for example, to a closure for sealing the neck opening of a container. The closure may include a top wall. The closure may include a side wall or a cylindrical skirt (hereinafter, cylindrical skirt). The cylindrical skirt may hang down from the top wall. The closure may include a tamper-evident feature. The tamper-evident feature may be connected to the closure, for example, the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident feature may, but is not required, be tamper-evidently connected to the closure, for example, the cylindrical skirt.

[0063] The cylindrical skirt and / or tamper-evident feature may include an inner surface. In some embodiments, the inner surface has one or more engaging features, such as tabs or cams. In other embodiments, the inner surface is substantially cylindrical and / or featureless. The inner surface may be featureless and / or lack engaging features, for example, to allow the engaging feature of the container neck to be received in an unprotected manner within the container neck. The engaging feature may include a flange. The tamper-evident feature may include a tamper-evident band.

[0064] Another broader embodiment relates to a closure for sealing a neck opening of a container, the closure comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall, and an annular tamper-evident band destructibly connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident band includes a substantially cylindrical inner surface, which is unfeatured and / or lacks an engaging function, for example, allowing the flange of the container neck to be received into the container neck in a substantially unpreventable manner.

[0065] The tamper-evident feature is not mandatory, but it can be connected to the closure, for example, the cylindrical skirt, by a fragile wire or a membrane.

[0066] Another broader embodiment relates to a closure for sealing a neck opening of a container, the closure comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall, and an annular tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt by a fragile wire or membrane, wherein the tamper-evident band includes a substantially cylindrical inner surface that has no features and / or lacks an engaging function, for example, to allow the flange of the container neck to be received unprotected into the container neck.

[0067] Tamper-evident bands can have substantially no residual hoop stress. Tamper-evident bands can be molded by a substantially cylindrical outer surface of a core to prevent internal stress within the molded tamper-evident band.

[0068] The closure may contain or be formed from polyethylene terephthalate.

[0069] The inventors have measured that omitting and / or minimizing the radiation from conventional engaging parts, such as cams or tabs, from tamper-evident bands during the molding process is advantageous for removing molded products and attaching lids. More specifically, when a bridge is molded within a closure, such engaging parts can be stressed by contacting the core of the mold during product removal, and can also be contacted with tamper-evident beads at the neck of the container during lid attachment. These phenomena can be particularly problematic when the closure is formed from polyethylene terephthalate due to its inherent mechanical properties. Therefore, omitting and / or reducing such structural parts reduces the complexity of removing molded products and attaching lids, especially when the closure is formed from polyethylene terephthalate.

[0070] Furthermore, the inventors have measured that by applying heat to the tamper-evident feature(s) component(s), the tamper-evident feature(s) may deform in a predetermined manner, and that such a structural component may be configured to engage with the container neck when heat is applied. For example, the inventors have measured that when heat is applied to the outer surface of this region, the free end portion of the tamper-evident band typically makes contact. While not wishing to be bound by any particular logic, the inventors believe that the deformation or contraction of the tamper-evident feature(s) component(s) caused by the application of heat is due to the temperature difference between the heated outer region and the unheated inner region. Tests were conducted to support this logic, in which the tamper-evident band expanded outward or curled when heat was applied to the inner region of the tamper-evident band. The inventors also believe that when the tamper-evident band comes into contact with this region during contraction, the adjacent region of the container neck can function as a heat sink, thereby further enhancing this effect.

[0071] Another broader embodiment relates to a closure for sealing a neck opening of a container, the closure comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall, and an annular tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane, wherein the closure is made of polyethylene terephthalate.

[0072] The membrane may have a radial wall thickness less than the radial wall thickness of the tamper-evident section and / or cylindrical skirt. The membrane may be perforated or slit to provide, for example, a breakable connection or line of weakness between the tamper-evident section and the closure or cylindrical skirt. In some embodiments, the membrane has one or more localized regions having greater thickness. The membrane may have one or more ribs, which may be thinner than the membrane or have a radial wall thickness greater than the radial wall thickness of the rest of the membrane. The thickness of the ribs, or each rib, may be the same as, or substantially the same as, the thickness of the tamper-evident band.

[0073] One or more ribs may include multiple ribs, for example, configured so that the membrane is cut between the ribs during use. The ribs may be configured to provide bridges, such as breakable bridges, that connect the tamper-evident band to the cylindrical skirt.

[0074] One or more ribs may include a single rib. The membrane may be perforated or slit to provide, for example, a breakable connection or line of vulnerability between the tamper-evident feature and the closure or cylindrical skirt. A single rib may be configured to provide, for example, a tether for securing the closure to the neck of the container.

[0075] The problems associated with using polyethylene terephthalate material within the closure can be further mitigated by providing a membrane molded into the closure, which is used for removing the molded product and subsequently attaching the lid, instead of a bridge molded into the closure. After lid attachment, slits can then be formed in the membrane to provide a breakable connection.

[0076] The membrane, or the destructible connection or bridge, may be substantially cylindrical or extend axially. It may be substantially aligned with and / or parallel to a cylindrical skirt or tamper-evident band.

[0077] In some embodiments, the tamper-evident band can be larger than the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident band can have a diameter larger than the diameter of the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident band can be connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane or by a destructible connection or one or more bridges extending radially and / or axially, for example, by a destructible connection. The membrane or the destructible connection or one or more bridges can extend at an angle with respect to both radial and axial directions. The tamper-evident band can be connected to the cylindrical skirt by a radial membrane or one or more radial bridges, for example, by a destructible connection. The tamper-evident band can be connected to the cylindrical skirt by a cylindrical or frustoconical membrane.

[0078] The tamper-evident feature may comprise one or more tabs. The tamper-evident band may comprise one or more tabs, for example, as included, represented, or defined herein. Tabs, or each tab, may be deformable or hinged to a tamper-evident band. Tabs, or each tab, may be hinged along one of their edges, for example, a first edge. Tabs, or each tab, may be connected to a tamper-evident band along a hinged edge, or only along the first edge. Tabs, or each tab, may have reduced wall thickness. Methods may include, for example, deforming, reshaping, shrinking, heating, or irradiating tabs, or each tab, such that tabs, or each tab, pivot inward about their hinged edge. Irradiating or applying heat to one or more areas of a tamper-evident band may include irradiating or applying heat to one or more tabs.

[0079] One or more tamper-evident features may comprise one or more projections or cams, which may be present on the tamper-evident band, such as on the inner surface of the tamper-evident band. The projections or cams may clear the container neck when the closure is positioned on the container neck. The method may include shrinking the tamper-evident band and reshaping a portion of the closure, for example, by aligning and / or engaging the projections or cams with the container neck.

[0080] One or more tamper-evident features may include flaps. The flaps, or each flap, may be configured to pivot or fold along a connecting line with a tamper-evident band when the closure is screwed onto the container neck, for example. The flaps, or each flap, may be configured to implement the rotation of the closure, for example, in the opposite direction, e.g., the screwing direction. Once implemented, one or more flaps may be configured to engage with the flange of the container neck, for example, to fasten the tamper-evident band onto the container neck, and / or to cut its or a detachable connection or bridge.

[0081] Another broader embodiment relates to a closure for sealing a neck opening of a container, the closure being at least partially made of polyethylene terephthalate and comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall, and an annular tamper-evident band destructibly connected to the cylindrical skirt, the tamper-evident band comprising one or more flaps, the flaps, or each flap, being configured to pivot or fold along a connecting line comprising the tamper-evident band when the closure is screwed to the neck of the container, and to implement rotation of the closure in the opposite, loosening direction, thereby engaging the flange of the neck of the container, securing the tamper-evident band on the neck of the container, and cutting the destructible connection.

[0082] Another broader embodiment relates to a combination of a container neck and a closure according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the container neck comprises a ratchet or one or more engaging parts that cooperate with one or more flaps to prevent the tamper-evident band from rotating when the closure rotates in the loosening direction.

[0083] A ratchet or one or more engaging parts may have one or more serrations. One or more flaps may have multiple flaps and / or ratchets, or one or more engaging parts may have multiple, for example, multiple corresponding engaging parts.

[0084] The method may include mechanically deforming the closure or a part of the container neck to engage one or more tamper-evident features with the container neck.

[0085] In some embodiments, the method may include deforming, for example, mechanically deforming, a portion of the closure. The portion of the closure may comprise one or more localized areas of the closure or tamper-evident band. The portion of the closure to be reshaped is mechanically deformed so that one or more tamper-evident functional parts, for example, a tamper-evident band, can engage with the container neck. The method may include deforming and / or engaging with, for example, a portion of the closure or tamper-evident band by puncturing or perforating one or more localized areas of the closure or tamper-evident band.

[0086] Another broader embodiment is a method for installing a closure on the neck of a container, the method comprising: positioning the closure across the neck of the container so that the tamper-evident band does not engage with the neck of the container; and reshaping the closure or at least a portion of the neck of the container while the closure is being installed on the container, thereby engaging the tamper-evident band with the container.

[0087] The container may have a neck finish, which may have interlocking surfaces. The tamper-evident band may have interlocking surfaces. When the closure is installed across the neck opening of the container, the interlocking surfaces of the tamper-evident band may clear the interlocking surfaces of the neck finish. The method may include reshaping the tamper-evident band, for example, by engaging the interlocking surfaces of the tamper-evident band with the interlocking surfaces of the container neck.

[0088] Another broader embodiment is a method for installing a closure on the neck of a container, comprising: positioning the closure across the neck of the container such that the interlocking surface of the tamper-evident band of the closure clears the interlocking surface of the neck finish; and reshaping the tamper-evident band so that the interlocking surface of the tamper-evident band engages with the interlocking surface of the neck of the container.

[0089] In some embodiments, the closure can be positioned on the container neck such that the fixing portion of the closure does not engage with the container neck. In such embodiments, part or all of the closure can be reshaped. For example, heat can be applied to the entire closure so that the entire closure is reshaped, deformed, or shrinks. The fixing portion of the closure can engage with the fixing portion of the container neck after the closure has been reshaped, or during the reshaping of the closure.

[0090] The method may include further reshaping a portion of the closure to provide, for example, a fixing function on the inner surface of the closure for cooperation with the fixing function of the container neck.

[0091] At least one of the tamper-evident features may be connected to a closure, for example, permanently or irrevocably. The closure may include an irrevocable connection between the tamper-evident band and the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident band may include a revocable line that spans the width or height of the tamper-evident band. The revocable line of the tamper-evident band may be adjacent to an irrevocable connection such that, for example, when the closure is first removed from the neck of the container during use, the tamper-evident band becomes a strip connected to the closure by the irrevocable connection.

[0092] In some embodiments, the closure may have multiple indestructible connections between the tamper-evident band and the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident band may have destructible wires between each pair of indestructible connections. Each destructible wire may span the width or height of the tamper-evident band. The tamper-evident band may be configured to split into multiple strips, each connected to the closure, by a corresponding one of the multiple indestructible connections, upon first removal of the closure from the container neck during use.

[0093] At least a portion of one or more tamper-evident features may be configured to remain attached to the closure when the closure is removed from the container neck, for example, by an unbreakable connection.

[0094] The tamper-proof feature may include a portion of a cylindrical skirt. The cylindrical skirt may include a rim, which may be substantially flat and define the opening end of the closure. The tamper-proof feature(s) may include a rim, or a portion of a rim.

[0095] Another broader embodiment is a method for installing a closure on a container neck, comprising: positioning the closure across the container neck; and irradiating or applying heat to at least a portion of a rim defining the open end of the closure to engage the rim with the container neck, or welding the rim to the container neck, wherein at least a portion of the rim is configured to be cut when the closure is removed from the container neck during use, thereby retaining the rim or rim portion on the container neck.

[0096] The rim or rim portion may engage with, or be welded to, the engaging portion of the container neck, such as a flange. The rim or rim portion may remain attached to the engaging portion of the container neck.

[0097] The method may include, for example, irradiating one or more areas of the tamper-evident feature(s) or its surroundings, or applying heat to them, to engage, for example, the area with the container neck.

[0098] The closure may be equipped with a tether, which may connect to the cylindrical skirt a tamper-proof component or band. A portion of the tether may also be, though not required, tamper-proof component or band and / or cylindrical skirt, for example, along at least a portion of its length, be tamper-proof.

[0099] By irradiating or applying heat to one or more areas of the tamper-evident feature section(s) or band, the area can be engaged with the container neck without hindering the joint movement of the tether when removing the closure from the container neck.

[0100] By irradiating or applying heat to one or more areas of an anti-tampering function part(s) or band, one or more areas, or the entire anti-tampering band, can be deformed inward or shrunk. By irradiating or applying heat to one or more areas of an anti-tampering function part(s) or band, a lip can be created in the area to engage, for example, an engaging function part or flange onto the container neck. By irradiating or applying heat to one or more areas of an anti-tampering function part(s) or band, a lip can be created in the area to allow the closure to rotate around the container neck. By irradiating or applying heat to one or more areas of an anti-tampering function part(s) or band, a lip can be created in the area to prevent axial movement of the anti-tampering function part(s) so that the anti-tampering function part(s) remain on the container neck when the closure is removed from the container neck. By irradiating or applying heat to one or more areas of the tamper-evident function section(s) or band, a lip can be generated in that area that allows the closure to rotate relative to the container neck while engaging the engagement function section or flange in the axial direction, for example, thereby preventing the engagement function section or flange from being removed from the container neck.

[0101] The lip may be continuous or substantially continuous. For example, the lip may be provided by a deformed, reshaped, or contracted ring of the tamper-evident band. Alternatively, the lip may be discontinuous and / or provided by two or more tamper-evident features that can be separated around the closure and / or tamper-evident band. The two or more tamper-evident features may comprise localized areas or tabs, for example, the localized areas or tabs described above.

[0102] In some embodiments, irradiating or applying heat to the tamper-evident feature(s) or band may include welding the tamper-evident feature(s) or band to the neck of the container.

[0103] The tamper-proof feature(s) may include a tamper-proof panel. The tamper-proof panel may be contained within, represented, or defined within the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-proof panel may, though not required, be rudimentarily connected to the periphery of the cylindrical skirt, for example, by a fragile wire. The method may include welding the tamper-proof panel to the neck of the container.

[0104] Another broader embodiment is a method for installing a closure on a container neck, comprising: positioning the closure across the container neck; and welding at least a portion of a tamper-evident panel contained within, represented, or defined within the closure to the container neck by irradiating or applying heat to the panel, wherein at least a portion of the tamper-evident panel is brokenly connected by a fragile line to the periphery of the closure such that at least a portion of the tamper-evident panel remains on the container neck when the closure is removed from the container neck.

[0105] The tamper-evident band may include a film or foil, for example, a tamper-evident film or foil. The tamper-evident film or foil may have radial wall thicknesses similar to, or slightly greater than, those of a bridge or membrane connecting the tamper-evident film or foil to a cylindrical skirt. In some embodiments, the tamper-evident band comprises a film or foil or membrane that can be directly secured by a cylindrical skirt.

[0106] The method for reshaping a portion of the closure may, though not required, include deforming or shrinking the tamper-proof film, foil, or membrane to engage, for example, the tamper-proof functional portion(s) with the container neck. The tamper-proof film, foil, or membrane may be deformed or shrunk by any means described herein.

[0107] Another broader embodiment relates to a closure for sealing a neck opening of a container, the closure comprising a top wall and a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall, the cylindrical skirt comprising a tamper-evident panel, which is included within, represented or defined within the closure, and is brokenly connected to the periphery of the cylindrical skirt by a fragile line.

[0108] The tamper-proof panel may have a radial wall thickness smaller than the radial wall thickness of the periphery of the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-proof panel may have a bottom edge that defines a portion of the rim of the cylindrical skirt.

[0109] Another broader embodiment relates to providing a closure for sealing a neck opening of a container, the closure comprising a top wall and a cylindrical skirt hanging down from the top wall, having a substantially planar rim defining the opening end of the closure, the cylindrical skirt comprising a tamper-evident panel having a bottom edge defining a portion of the substantially planar rim, which is contained within, exposed to, or defined within the closure, and a radial wall thickness less than the radial wall thickness of the periphery of the cylindrical skirt.

[0110] At least a portion of the tamper-evident feature(s), such as a tamper-evident band, tab, or panel, may have a radial wall thickness of 0.6 mm or less, for example, 0.5 mm or less, for example, 0.4 mm or less, or even 0.3 mm or less (where "or less" means the minimum practical, non-zero radial wall thickness, for example, 0.05 mm).

[0111] At least one of the tamper-evident features, for example, a tamper-evident band, may include one or more hardened portions or regions. At least one of the tamper-evident features, for example, a tamper-evident band, may include one or more weakened portions or regions. One or more hardened portions or regions may include radial wall thickness, which may be greater than at least a portion of the radial wall thickness of the rest of the tamper-evident features or band, and / or the weakened portions or regions.

[0112] The hardened area(s) or area(s), and / or weakened area(s), may be configured to induce or accelerate selective deformation, for example, when at least a portion of the closure or container neck is reshaped. The hardened area(s) or area(s), and / or weakened area(s), may be configured to induce or accelerate selective deformation when at least a portion of the closure or container neck is irradiated and / or when a laser is directed directly at them.

[0113] The weakened portion(s) or region(s) may be configured to deform selectively with respect to the hardened portion(s) or region(s) when irradiated and / or when the laser is directed directly at them.

[0114] At least one of the tamper-evident features, for example, a tamper-evident band, may comprise a first annular portion and / or a second annular portion. The first annular portion can be connected to a cylindrical skirt. The second annular portion can hang down from the first annular portion. The second annular portion may have a radial wall thickness smaller than that of the first annular portion.

[0115] The second annular portion may be configured to deform selectively with respect to the first annular portion when irradiated and / or when a laser is directed directly upon it.

[0116] The hardened portion(s) or region(s) may include or be provided with a first annular portion. The first annular portion may include or be provided with a hardened portion(s). The weakened portion(s) or region(s) may include or be provided with a second annular portion. The second annular portion may include or be provided with a weakened portion(s) or region(s).

[0117] The hardened portion(s) or region(s), or the first annular portion, may comprise one or more hardened structural parts, members, or formations. The hardened structural parts, members, or formations, or each hardened structural part, member, or formation, may comprise ribs, raised parts, or undulating parts. The weakened portion(s) or region(s), or region(s), may comprise one or more weakened structural parts, members, or formations. The weakened structural parts, members, or formations, or the weakened structural parts, members, or formations, may comprise grooves, recesses, or depressions. In some embodiments, at least one of the tamper-evident functional parts(s), for example, a tamper-evident band, comprises an axial groove or a periphery groove.

[0118] In some embodiments, at least one of the tamper-evident features, for example, a tamper-evident band, is provided with a peripheral groove between a first annular portion and a second annular portion.

[0119] The inner surface of the first annular portion may be substantially continuous with the second annular portion and / or may have the same diameter as the second annular portion, or a substantially continuous diameter. Radial steps may be formed, for example, on the outer surface of the radial steps between the first annular portion and the second annular portion, which may result in a difference in radial wall thickness, or a difference in radial wall thickness can be provided.

[0120] Additionally, or alternatively, the outer surface of the first annular portion may be substantially continuous with the second annular portion and / or may have the same diameter as, or substantially continuous with, the second annular portion. Radial steps may be formed, for example, on the inner surface of the radial steps between the first annular portion and the second annular portion, which may result in a difference in radial wall thickness, or a difference in radial wall thickness can be provided.

[0121] The method may include, for example, engaging the tamper-evident band with the flange of the container neck by irradiating or directing a laser beam around or along the second annular portion.

[0122] While we do not wish to be bound by any particular logic, the inventors have found that the addition of a thinner, second annular portion tends to result in a more secure curl of the tamper-evident band. The addition of a thinner, second annular portion also reduces the weight of the closure.

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

[0124] Additionally, or alternatively, the second annular portion may have an axial height of at least 50% of the axial height of the first annular portion, for example, at least 80% of the axial height of the first annular portion. The second annular portion may have an axial height at least equal to the axial height of the first annular portion. The axial height of the second annular portion may be three times the axial height of the first annular portion, for example, about 2.5 or less than 2.2 times the axial height of the first annular portion. The axial height of the second annular portion may be 0.5 to 3 times the axial height of the first annular portion, for example, 0.8 to 2.5 or 1 to 2.5 times the axial height of the first annular portion. In some cases, the axial height of the second annular portion is 1 to 2.2 times the axial height of the first annular portion.

[0125] The second annular portion may have an axial height of at least 25% of the total axial height of the tamper-evident band, for example, at least 40% of the total axial height of the tamper-evident band. The second annular portion may have an axial height of at least 50% of the total axial height of the tamper-evident band. The axial height of the second annular portion may be less than 75% of the total axial height of the tamper-evident band, for example, up to about 70% of the total axial height of the tamper-evident band. The axial height of the second annular portion may be between 25% and 75% of the total axial height of the tamper-evident band, for example, between 40% and 70%, or between 50% and 70% of the total axial height of the tamper-evident band.

[0126] At least a portion of the tether may be included in, represented by, or defined by a tamper-evident band, for example, a first annular portion of the tamper-evident band. The tether may be at least partially defined by the first annular portion. Additionally or alternatively, at least a portion of the tether may be included in, represented by, or defined by a cylindrical skirt.

[0127] At least a portion of the first annular portion of the tamper-evident band may have a radial wall thickness of less than 0.6 mm, for example, less than 0.5 mm. At least a portion of the first annular portion of the tamper-evident band may have a radial wall thickness of less than 0.4 mm, for example, less than 0.3 mm.

[0128] Irradiating or applying heat to a portion of the closure, or any tamper-evident component(s) or rim, may include irradiating the portion of the closure and / or any tamper-evident component(s) or rim with electromagnetic energy. Alternatively, irradiating or applying heat to a portion of the closure, or any tamper-evident component(s) or rim, may include placing the portion of the closure to be reshaped, or any tamper-evident component(s) or rim, on, on the opposite side of, or adjacent to a heating element.

[0129] The method may include arranging a closure or part of the container neck to be reshaped, or one or more tamper-evident features, on the opposite side of or adjacent to the heating element, and, for example, applying heat to them to engage one or more tamper-evident features with the container neck.

[0130] The method may include rotating the tamper-evident band of the closure when heat is applied to the closure by the heating element. The method may also include rolling the tamper-evident band along the heating element.

[0131] The method may include irradiating or applying heat to approximately at least a portion of the closure to engage, for example, the tamper-evident component(s) with the container neck, centered on at least a portion of the closure.

[0132] In some embodiments, the method may include rotating the closure and / or container when, for example, the tamper-evident component(s) are irradiated or heated. Rotating the closure and / or container may irradiate or apply heat to approximately at least a portion of the closure's periphery, causing, for example, the tamper-evident component(s) to engage with the container neck, centered on at least a portion of the periphery. Rotating the closure and / or container may include engaging one side of the container or container neck with a transport means such as a conveyor. The transport means may engage the container neck adjacent to and / or directly below a support ring or shelf. Alternatively, the transport means may engage the side wall of the container body. The transport means may comprise a first transport means. Further or second transport means, such as a further or second conveyor, may engage the opposite side of the container or container neck. Further, or second, means of transport may be stationary or move in the opposite direction to the first means of transport, for example, to rotate the closure and / or container.

[0133] The method may include transporting a container or container neck together with, for example, a closure installed on the container or container neck. The method may include transporting the container or container neck along the transport direction. A transport means or conveyor, for example, a first and / or second transport means or conveyor, or further transport means or conveyor, can transport the container or container neck along the transport direction. The method may include, for example, transporting a plurality of closures on their respective corresponding container necks along the transport direction. The method may include illuminating a portion of each closure simultaneously. A substantially planar laser beam can be directed along a portion of the tamper-evident band of a closure, for example, to engage the tamper-evident band with the flange of the container neck.

[0134] The method may include directing a substantially planar laser beam along a portion of the closure's tamper-evident band, causing, for example, a portion of the tamper-evident band, such as the free edge or free edge portion of the tamper-evident band, to curl inward to engage with the flange of the container neck.

[0135] When the tamper-evident band includes a first annular portion and a second annular portion, a substantially planar laser beam can be directed along a portion of the periphery of the second annular portion. This allows a portion of the tamper-evident band, or its second annular portion, to engage the tamper-evident band with the flange of the container neck. This allows a portion of the tamper-evident band, or its second annular portion, for example, its free edge or free edge portion, to be curled inward to engage with the flange of the container neck.

[0136] The method may include supporting the radial support flanges of the container neck. The method may include, for example, engaging the opposite end of the container body hanging from the container neck while the radial support flanges are supported. The method may include engaging the opposite end of the container body to transport the container along the transport direction, and / or rotating the container and closure as they are transported along the transport direction.

[0137] The method may involve using a pair of conveyors to engage the opposite side of the container body. Each conveyor can engage the container body at a different axial position.

[0138] The method may include, for example, detecting the presence of one or more containers being transported along a transport means or conveyor. The method may also include detecting the presence of one or more containers upstream and / or downstream of a reshaping means.

[0139] The method may include irradiating the tamper-proof feature(s) using two or more, for example, multiple electromagnetic energy sources. The light sources can be distributed around the closure, for example, uniformly distributed around the closure. The method may also include irradiating two or more, for example, multiple, sides of the closure, or applying heat thereto, for example, to engage the tamper-proof feature(s) with two or more sides of the container neck.

[0140] Irradiating or applying heat to the tamper-evident feature(s) may involve directing electromagnetic energy to the contact interface between the closure, for example, the tamper-evident feature(s), and the container neck. In such cases, it is preferable that the closure be made of a different material or a different type of material than the container neck. For example, the closure may be made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and the container neck may be made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

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

[0142] Irradiating the tamper-proof function unit(s) with electromagnetic energy may include directing the electromagnetic energy towards or through the tamper-proof function unit(s).

[0143] Irradiating the tamper-evident feature(s) with electromagnetic energy may include directing a laser or laser beam towards the tamper-evident feature(s). The laser or laser beam may have a power of 10W to 400W, preferably 20W to 350W. The power of the laser or laser beam can be reduced during irradiation, for example, within the range described above. For example, the laser power may initially be 400W or 350W and gradually reduced to 150W or 100W as the closure or container neck is irradiated. Other arrangements may also be conceivable. The method may include irradiating the closure or part of the container neck to be reshaped, or the tamper-evident feature(s), for less than 2 seconds, for example, 1 second or less. In some embodiments, the method may include irradiating the closure or part of the container to be reshaped, or the tamper-evident feature(s), for 0.2 to 0.8 seconds, for example, 0.3 to 0.7 seconds, or 0.4 to 0.6 seconds. In embodiments where the closure and / or container neck are irradiated by a single laser or rotate, the irradiation time may be longer than in embodiments where they are irradiated by multiple lasers.

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

[0145] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for engaging a molded article with another article, the method comprising irradiating a portion of the molded article with electromagnetic energy after modifying one or more characteristics of electromagnetic energy using one or more optical instruments.

[0146] Another broader embodiment is a method for engaging a molded article with another article, the method comprising irradiating a portion of the molded article with a laser after modifying one or more features of the laser using one or more optical instruments.

[0147] One or more optical instruments may include one or more lenses, prisms, or mirrors.

[0148] The method may include using one or more lenses to narrow or broaden, for example, electromagnetic energy or a laser. The method may include using one or more lenses to narrow or broaden electromagnetic energy or a laser along at least one axis or plane. At least one of the lenses may include a telescope. The method may include using one or more telescopes to narrow or broaden, for example, electromagnetic energy or a laser. The method may include using one or more telescopes to narrow or broaden electromagnetic energy or a laser along at least one axis or plane. The method may include using a convex or focusing lens to narrow or concentrate electromagnetic energy or a laser toward, for example, a tamper-evident feature(s). The method may include using a concave or diverging lens to magnify or diffuse electromagnetic energy or a laser. The method may include using a convex or focusing lens and a concave or diverging lens to provide, for example, one or more desired properties of electromagnetic energy or a laser.

[0149] The method may include using one or more prisms to, for example, change the direction and / or refract electromagnetic energy or a laser. The prisms, or each prism, may include, for example, a polygonal prism having three or more sides or faces. The prisms, or each prism, may include a polygonal prism having at least 10 sides or faces. In some embodiments, the polygonal prism has 18 or more sides. The prisms, or at least 10 prisms, may have a non-polygonal shape or any shape configured to impart the desired optical effect. The method may include using one or more prisms, each having one or more lenses, to impart one or more desired properties to electromagnetic energy or a laser before the electromagnetic energy is directed to or through a tamper-proof feature(s).

[0150] The method may include using one or more reflectors or mirrors (hereinafter referred to herein as mirrors(pl)) to redirect electromagnetic energy or a laser to irradiate one or more, for example, a closure or container neck or tamper-evident feature(pl) . The method may also include using one or more mirrors equipped with one or more lenses and / or one or more prisms to impart one or more desired properties to the electromagnetic energy or laser before the electromagnetic energy is directed to or through the tamper-evident feature(pl) .

[0151] The mirror, or at least 10 mirrors, may be polygonal. The mirror, or at least 10 mirrors, may have a non-polygonal or arbitrary shape configured to impart the desired optical effect. The method may include using the mirror, or at least 10 mirrors, to split electromagnetic energy or a laser into two or more beams, each for irradiating a corresponding molded product, closure, or tamper-evident feature. The method may include rotating the mirror, for example, relative to the light source. The rotation speed of the mirror can cause the two or more beams to follow the movement of the molded product, closure, or tamper-evident feature. The method may include the mirror containing a substantially linear or planar beam of electromagnetic energy, for example, a planar laser beam. The method may include rotating the mirror at a speed that produces a substantially continuous, or substantially continuous linear or planar beam of electromagnetic energy, for example, a planar laser beam. The method may involve rotating the mirror at a speed that generates a substantially linear or substantially planar beam of electromagnetic energy, such as a planar laser beam.

[0152] The method may include, for example, illuminating a portion of each of the closures simultaneously with a substantially planar or linear laser beam at the corresponding container neck when the closures are being transported in the transport direction. A substantially planar laser beam can be directed along a portion of the closure's tamper-evident band so that, for example, the tamper-evident band engages with the flange of the container neck.

[0153] The lens, or at least one lens, may include a scanning lens. The scanning lens may include a flat-field scanning lens or an f-θ scanning lens. The method may involve altering one or more characteristics of the beam with a lens, such as a scanning lens, or at least one lens. By altering the beam characteristics, a substantially planar focus can be provided. The scanning lens may be for providing a substantially planar laser beam with a substantially planar focus along the transport direction. The method may involve using a lens, or at least one lens, for example a scanning lens, to provide a more continuous resolution and / or intensity, for example, across the plane on which the illuminated closure lies.

[0154] The method may include directing a beam of electromagnetic energy or a laser through a lens or scanning lens before irradiating the closure. The method may include directing a substantially linear or planar beam of electromagnetic energy, or a planar laser beam, through a lens or scanning lens before irradiating the closure.

[0155] The method may include directing the laser at a closure that passes between a mirror or at least one mirror.

[0156] The mirror, or at least one mirror, may be concave. The concave mirror can be fixed adjacent to the molded product or the closure or tamper-evident feature. The concave mirror can be fixed on the opposite side of the molded product or the closure or tamper-evident feature from the light source. The method may include redirecting the concave mirror electromagnetic energy, for example, a laser beam or a portion thereof, back to the molded product or the closure or tamper-evident feature. The method may include moving the concave mirror together with the molded product or the closure or tamper-evident feature.

[0157] The mirror, or at least one mirror, may be configured to move with the closure on the conveyor during use, thereby reflecting a portion of the laser beam emitted from the laser towards the closure. The mirror, or at least one mirror, may be configured to remain stationary or stationary when the closure on the conveyor moves past the mirror during use.

[0158] A mirror, or at least one mirror, may comprise one or more peaks and / or troughs, for example, a series of alternating peaks and troughs. At least one peak, or each peak, may comprise a pair of opposing flanks. A flank, or at least one, or each flank, may be substantially flat or planar. Alternatively, a flank, or at least one, or each flank, may be curved, concave, convex, sinusoidal, or have any other preferred shape. At least some of the peaks and troughs, or a series of peaks and troughs, may be substantially identical. Additionally or alternatively, at least some of the peaks and troughs, or a series of peaks and troughs, may differ, for example, in width or any other characteristic.

[0159] At least one of the optical instruments may have a free-form reflective or refractive surface. At least one of the lenses, prisms, or mirrors may include a free-form lens, prism, or mirror. At least one of the free-form surfaces, lenses, or prisms may be dynamically adjustable, for example, to change its optical properties. The free-form surfaces, lenses, or prisms may be used to diffuse a laser emitted by a light source.

[0160] In some embodiments, the optical instrument is configured to shape, alter, or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam. The optical instrument may be configured to shape, alter, or modify the horizontal or vertical intensity distribution of the laser beam. The horizontal intensity distribution may be along a transport means or conveyor, or at least one thereof. The horizontal intensity distribution may be along the transport direction or direction of movement of one or more containers or container necks, which may include a closure installed on the container or container neck. The vertical intensity distribution may include an intensity distribution along the axial direction of the closure and / or container. The vertical intensity distribution may include an intensity distribution along a specific direction of the closure and / or container, corresponding to or substantially parallel to a certain axis. The horizontal direction may be substantially orthogonal to the vertical direction.

[0161] The optical instrument may be configured to shape, alter, or modify the intensity distribution of a laser beam along the transport direction or movement direction of one or more containers or container necks, which may include a closure installed on the container or container neck. The optical instrument may be configured to shape, alter, or modify the intensity distribution of a laser beam along the axial direction of the closure and / or container. The optical instrument may be configured to shape, alter, or modify the intensity distribution of a laser beam along a direction lateral and / or substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the closure and / or container. The optical instrument may be configured to shape, alter, or modify the intensity distribution of a laser beam along a direction corresponding to or substantially parallel to a specific axis of the closure and / or container. The optical instrument may be configured to shape, alter, or modify the intensity distribution of a laser beam along a direction substantially perpendicular to a specific axis of the closure and / or container.

[0162] The optical instrument can shape, change, or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam, and concentrate the laser beam on a predetermined area of ​​the closure or tamper-evident band, for example, its lower end, free end, or terminal end. In embodiments where a fixing function can be generated using the laser beam, the optical instrument can shape, change, or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam, and concentrate the laser beam on a predetermined area of ​​the cylindrical skirt of the closure.

[0163] The method may include molding the closure before placing it in the container. The method may include generating internal stress within the reshaped closure or a portion of the tamper-evident feature during the molding process.

[0164] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for forming a closure configured to be reshaped to engage at least partially with a container neck, the method comprising generating internal stress in the portion of the closure being reshaped during the forming process.

[0165] The method may include stretching or expanding a portion of the closure to be reshaped during or after the molding process. The method may include subjecting the inner surface of the portion of the closure to be reshaped to a cooling temperature substantially different from the cooling temperature to which the outer surface of the closure is subjected. The portion of the closure to be reshaped may include one or more tamper-evident features, such as tamper-evident bands.

[0166] Another broader embodiment relates to a molding stack. The molding stack may include, for example, a molded structure that defines a cavity for molding a thermoplastic closure for sealing a neck opening of a container. The molding stack may have one or more molded surfaces that define the structural components of the closure obtained from the molding process (hereinafter referred to herein as the obtained closure).

[0167] The closure may include a top wall. The closure may have a cylindrical skirt, which may hang down from the top wall. The closure may have an annular tamper-evident band, which may be connected to the cylindrical skirt.

[0168] The molded stack may be configured to extend or expand the tamper-evident band radially when in use.

[0169] Another broader embodiment relates to a molding stack comprising a molding structure that defines a cavity for molding a thermoplastic closure for sealing a neck opening of a container, wherein the closure comprises a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall, and an annular tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt, and the molding stack is configured to radially extend or expand the tamper-evident band when in use.

[0170] Another broader embodiment relates to a thermoplastic closure for sealing a neck opening of a container, the closure comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging down from the top wall, and an annular tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt, the tamper-evident band having a substantially cylindrical inner surface having one or more recesses in it, the one or more recesses being formed by one or more corresponding projections of a molded core, such that the tamper-evident band stretches or expands in use when the molded core is moved after molding.

[0171] The tamper-evident band may have a substantially cylindrical inner surface which may have one or more recesses inside. The one or more recesses may be formed by one or more corresponding projections of the molded core so that, for example, the tamper-evident band stretches or expands during use when the molded core is moved after molding.

[0172] The tamper-evident band of a closure may contain internal stress as a result of stretching or expansion after molding.

[0173] Another broader embodiment relates to a thermoplastic closure for sealing a neck opening of a container, the closure comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall, and an annular tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident band contains internal stress as a result of stretching or expansion after molding.

[0174] Another broader embodiment relates to a package including a closure installed on the neck of the container, wherein the free end of a tamper-evident band is deformed inward to create a lip for engaging a flange with the neck of the container.

[0175] The closure or part of the container neck to be reshaped, or one or more tamper-evident features to be reshaped, may include one or more ribs. The one or more ribs may be present on the inner or outer surface of the closure or part of the container neck to be reshaped, or one or more tamper-evident features to be reshaped. The one or more ribs may include one or more axial ribs and / or may extend axially along the closure or along an axis, such as the main axis. The closure or part of the container neck to be reshaped, or one or more tamper-evident features to be reshaped, may include, for example, a reheating agent to increase its heat absorption. The closure or part of the container neck to be reshaped, or one or more tamper-evident features to be reshaped, may include a surface finish which may be configured to increase its heat absorption.

[0176] The method may include perforating, slitting, or cutting a closure, cylindrical skirt, tamper-evident component, or a membrane connecting the tamper-evident component to the closure or cylindrical skirt. Perforating, slitting, or cutting may be for the purpose of providing, or having the purpose of providing, a specific or certain, destructible connection or weak line between the tamper-evident component and the closure or cylindrical skirt.

[0177] The method may include perforating, slitting, or cutting the cylindrical skirt, tamper-evident feature(s), or membrane while irradiating or applying heat to the tamper-evident feature(s), or afterward. The method may also include perforating, slitting, or cutting the membrane while the closure is installed on the container neck.

[0178] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for creating a breakable connection between a closure and a tamper-evident feature, which may include or can be formed from polyethylene terephthalate, the method comprising creating a breakable connection or weak line between them by perforating, slitting, or cutting a membrane connecting the tamper-evident feature to the closure.

[0179] The method may include perforating, slitting, or cutting the cylindrical skirt, tamper-evident component, or membrane. The method is not particularly limited and may include, for example, the use of one or more spikes, or saw teeth or saw surfaces. Alternatively, in further embodiments, the method may include using a laser or laser cutter to perforate, slit, or cut the cylindrical skirt, tamper-evident component, or membrane.

[0180] Perforating, slitting, or cutting the membrane can be performed before, after, or simultaneously with mechanical deformation of one or more localized areas of the closure or the container neck or tamper-evident parts to be reshaped. Perforating, slitting, or cutting the membrane can be performed before, after, or simultaneously with heating of the closure or the container neck or tamper-evident parts to be reshaped.

[0181] Another broader embodiment relates to a system, for example, a system for mounting or engaging a container neck with one or more tamper-evident features of a closure. The system may, but is not required, include a reshaping member. The system may, but is not required, be operated by the reshaping member to reshape a part of the closure or container neck, or a tamper-evident feature(s), so that the tamper-evident feature(s) engage with the container neck.

[0182] Another broader embodiment relates to a system for engaging one or more tamper-evident features of a closure, such as a molded closure or a thermoplastic closure, with a container neck, the system comprising one or more reshaping members, the system causing the reshaping member(s) to reshape a portion of the closure or container neck, thereby engaging the tamper-evident features(s) with the container neck, for example, movably, with respect to at least a portion of their periphery.

[0183] The system may, though not required, include a means or assembly for transporting containers through the system, such as one or more conveyors.

[0184] The reshaping member is not required, but may be one of two or more, for example, multiple reshaping members. The reshaping member may be distributed around at least a portion of the closure. The reshaping member may reshape at least a portion of the closure or container neck around at least a portion of its periphery, and may be operable to engage, for example, a tamper-evident function unit with the container neck around at least a portion of its periphery.

[0185] The reshaping member is not required, but may be a source of electromagnetic radiation. The system may be operable to irradiate the closure or a portion of the container neck with the source of electromagnetic radiation, and engage the tamper-proof function(s) with the container neck, for example, to engage them movably. The light source is not required, but may be one of two or more, for example, multiple, sources of electromagnetic radiation. The source(s) of electromagnetic radiation may be operable to irradiate the closure or a portion of the container neck, centering on at least a portion of its periphery, and engage the tamper-proof function(s) with the container neck, for example, centering on at least a portion of its periphery.

[0186] In some embodiments, the reshaping member includes a cooling member. The cooling member may include a source of a cooling fluid, such as a gas, such as air. The cooling member may be able to operate one or more other reshaping members, or may be configured to cooperate with one or more other reshaping members, to create a temperature difference in the closure or closure portion, or in the tamper-evident function portion or band. The system may be able to operate the cooling member to cool one side of the closure or container neck, for example, the inside or the outside.

[0187] Another broader embodiment relates to a system for engaging one or more tamper-evident features of a closure with a container neck, the system comprising one or more sources of electromagnetic radiation, the system irradiating a portion of the closure or container neck with the source(s), and engaging the tamper-evident features(s) with the container neck, for example, movably, with respect to at least a portion of their periphery.

[0188] The system may include, for example, a transport means or assembly for transporting containers through the system. The transport means or assembly may be operable to rotate the closure and / or container when, for example, the closure or a portion of the container neck is reshaped or irradiated by electromagnetic energy. The transport means or assembly may include two or more conveyors. At least one of the transport means or assembly, or conveyors, may be configured or operable to rotate the closure and / or container when, for example, the closure or a portion of the container neck is reshaped or irradiated by electromagnetic energy. At least one of the transport means or assembly, or conveyors, may be configured or operable to translate the closure and / or container when, for example, the closure or a portion of the container neck is reshaped or irradiated by electromagnetic energy.

[0189] The first conveyor may be configured to engage one side of the closure, container, or container neck. The first conveyor may be configured to engage the container neck adjacent to and / or directly below the support ring or shelf. Alternatively, the first conveyor may be configured to engage the side wall of the container body or the cylindrical skirt of the closure. A further or second conveyor can engage the opposite side of the closure, container, or container neck. The further or second conveyor may be stationary or move in the opposite direction to the first conveyor, for example, to rotate the closure and / or container.

[0190] The system or transport means may include detection means or detectors, such as photoelectric detectors or barriers. The detection means may be located upstream and / or downstream of the reshaping means to detect, for example, the presence of containers being transported along the conveyor.

[0191] The electromagnetic radiation light source(s) may comprise multiple electromagnetic energy sources, which, although not required, can be distributed around the closure or container neck. The light source(s) can be operated to irradiate at least a portion of the closure or container neck that is being reshaped, or the tamper-evident feature(s).

[0192] The source of electromagnetic energy, or each or at least one source, may include a laser or a laser source or emitter. The system or light source is operable to produce a laser having a power of 10W to 400W, preferably 20W to 350W. The system or light source may be operable to reduce the laser power during irradiation, for example, within the range described above.

[0193] The system may include one or more optical elements, optical structures, or optical instruments, such as one or more lenses, prisms, or mirrors.

[0194] Another broader embodiment relates to a system for engaging a molded article with another article, the system comprising one or more sources of electromagnetic radiation and one or more optical devices, the system being operable such that, after modifying one or more characteristics of the electromagnetic energy using one or more optical elements, optical structures, or optical devices, a portion of the molded article is irradiated with the source(s) and thereby engages the molded article with the other article, for example, to engage in a movable manner.

[0195] Another broader embodiment relates to a system for engaging a molded article with another article, the system comprising one or more lasers and one or more optical instruments, the system being operable such that, after modifying one or more features of the laser beam using one or more optical elements, optical structures, or optical instruments, a portion of the molded article is irradiated with the laser(s), thereby engaging the molded article with the other article, for example, to engage in a movable manner.

[0196] One or more optical elements, optical structures, or optical devices may be operable or configured to concentrate and / or diffuse and / or reflect and / or refract electromagnetic energy or lasers to illuminate one or more, for example, multiple, closures or container necks or tamper-evident features.

[0197] The system may include the use of one or more lenses, which may be configured to narrow or widen electromagnetic energy or lasers. One or more lenses may include convex or focusing lenses, which may be configured to narrow or concentrate electromagnetic energy or lasers toward, for example, tamper-proof features. One or more lenses may include concave or diverging lenses, which may be configured to magnify or diffuse electromagnetic energy or lasers. One or more lenses may comprise a convex or focusing lens and a concave or diverging lens, which together may be configured to produce one or more desired properties of electromagnetic energy or lasers.

[0198] The system may include the use of one or more prisms, which may be configured to redirect and / or refract electromagnetic energy or lasers. The prisms, or each prism, may include, for example, polygonal prisms having three or more sides or faces. The prisms, or each prism, may include polygonal prisms having at least 10 sides or faces. In some embodiments, the polygonal prism has 18 or more sides. The prisms, or at least 10 prisms, may have a non-polygonal shape or any shape, configured to impart the desired optical effect. The system may include one or more prisms and one or more lenses, which together may be configured to impart one or more desired properties of the electromagnetic energy or laser before the electromagnetic energy is directed to or through the tamper-proof section(s).

[0199] The system may comprise one or more reflectors or mirrors (hereinafter referred to herein as mirrors(pl)) configured to reflect electromagnetic energy or lasers and illuminate one or more, for example, a closure or container neck or tamper-evident feature(s). The system may comprise one or more mirrors, and one or more lenses and / or one or more prisms, for example, to impart one or more desired properties to the electromagnetic energy or laser before the electromagnetic energy is directed to or through the tamper-evident feature(s).

[0200] The system may include a laser or laser assembly which may be operable to illuminate a plurality of closures, or a portion thereof, with a substantially planar laser beam. The laser or laser assembly may be operable to illuminate a plurality of closures, or a portion thereof, with a substantially planar laser beam as they are, for example, along the transport direction and / or as they are transported by the transport means, to engage the closures with the container neck. While the closure portion is illuminated with a substantially planar laser beam, the transport means may be operable to rotate the closure and the container neck, or each thereof.

[0201] A substantially planar laser beam can be oriented along the direction of transport.

[0202] The transport means may include rails, for example, one or more rails, for supporting the radial support flanges of the container neck. The rails, or each rail, may have a support surface, or a support surface may be provided thereon, and the support surface may be elongated and / or extend along the transport direction. The support surface may be horizontal. One or more rails may include a pair of rails, which may be spaced apart, for example, so that the container neck and closure can be transported between and / or along them. The rails, or each rail, may include a plate, which may provide a support surface.

[0203] The transport means may include a pair of conveyors, which may face each other. One conveyor may include a pair of opposing conveyors. The pair of conveyors may be for engaging the opposite side of the container body hanging from the container neck. The pair of conveyors may be for transporting the container along the transport direction and / or for rotating the container and closure as the container is transported along the transport direction. The first conveyor may be positioned further away than the rail(s) of the second conveyor, for example, to engage the opposite side of the container body in different axial directions.

[0204] The mirror, or at least 10 mirrors, may be polygonal. The mirror, or at least 10 mirrors, may have a non-polygonal or arbitrary shape configured to impart the desired optical effect. The mirror may be configured to split electromagnetic energy or laser into two or more beams, each for illuminating a corresponding molded product, closure, or tamper-evident feature. The mirror may be rotatable, for example, relative to the light source. The rotation speed of the mirror may be configured to cause the two or more beams to follow the movement of the molded product, closure, or tamper-evident feature. The mirror may be configured to provide a substantially linear or planar beam of electromagnetic energy, such as a planar laser beam. The mirror may be rotatable at a speed that generates a substantially continuous, or substantially continuous linear or planar beam of electromagnetic energy, such as a planar laser beam. The mirror may be rotatable at a speed that generates a substantially linear or substantially planar beam of electromagnetic energy, such as a planar laser beam.

[0205] The lens, or at least one lens, may include a scanning lens. The scanning lens may include a flat-field scanning lens or an f-θ scanning lens. The lens, or at least one lens, for example, the scanning lens, may be configured to alter one or more characteristics of the beam, for example, to provide a substantially planar focal point. The scanning lens may be for providing a substantially planar laser beam with a substantially planar focal point along the transport direction. The lens, or at least one lens, for example, the scanning lens, may span the plane on which the illuminated closure lies, resulting in a more continuous resolution and / or intensity.

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

[0207] The system may be configured to direct the laser to a closure that passes between the laser and a mirror or at least one mirror during use.

[0208] The mirror, or at least one mirror, may be concave. The concave mirror can be fixed adjacent to the molded product or the closure or tamper-evident feature. The concave mirror can be fixed on the opposite side of the molded product or the closure or tamper-evident feature from the light source. The concave mirror may be configured to redirect electromagnetic energy, such as a laser beam or a portion thereof, back to the molded product or the closure or tamper-evident feature. The concave mirror may be configured to move the molded product or the closure or tamper-evident feature, for example, through the system. The concave mirror can be fixed to a transport means or conveyor.

[0209] The mirror, or at least one mirror, may be configured to move with the closure on the conveyor during use, thereby reflecting a portion of the laser beam emitted from the laser towards the closure. The mirror, or at least one mirror, may be configured to remain stationary or stationary when the closure on the conveyor moves past the mirror during use.

[0210] A mirror, or at least one mirror, may comprise one or more peaks and / or troughs, for example, a series of alternating peaks and troughs. At least one peak, or each peak, may comprise a pair of opposing flanks. A flank, or at least one, or each flank, may be substantially flat or planar. Alternatively, a flank, or at least one, or each flank, may be curved, concave, convex, sinusoidal, or have any other preferred shape. At least some of the peaks and troughs, or a series of peaks and troughs, may be substantially identical. Additionally or alternatively, at least some of the peaks and troughs, or a series of peaks and troughs, may differ, for example, in width or any other characteristic.

[0211] At least one of the optical instruments may have a free-form reflective or refractive surface. At least one of the lenses, prisms, or mirrors may include a free-form lens, prism, or mirror. At least one of the free-form surfaces, lenses, or prisms may be dynamically adjustable, for example, to change its optical properties. The free-form surfaces, lenses, or prisms may be used to diffuse a laser emitted by a light source.

[0212] In some embodiments, the optical instrument is configured to shape, alter, or modify the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy or a laser beam.

[0213] Another broader embodiment relates to a system, for example, a conditioning system for articles, closures, or containers, or a pre-forming conditioning system. The system may include a source of electromagnetic radiation, such as a laser. The system may include an optical instrument, which may be configured to shape, alter, or modify the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy or a laser.

[0214] Another broader embodiment relates to a system, such as a conditioning system, comprising an electromagnetic radiation source and an optical instrument configured to shape, change, or modify the intensity distribution of the electromagnetic energy emitted by the source during use.

[0215] The system may comprise a means of transport or a conveyor and, optionally, one or more of the above-described other structural components relating to the system.

[0216] The optical instrument may be configured to shape, change, or modify the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy along the direction of transport of the transport means.

[0217] Optical instruments may include freeform mirrors or lenses. Freeform surfaces, lenses, or prisms may be used to diffuse lasers emitted by a light source.

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

[0219] Another broader aspect relates to methods for conditioning articles, such as closures or containers, or preformed articles. The methods may include emitting electromagnetic radiation, such as a laser beam. The methods may include shaping, altering, or modifying the intensity distribution of the emitted electromagnetic energy or laser. The methods may include irradiating an article with electromagnetic energy or a laser having a shaped, altered, or modified intensity distribution.

[0220] Another broader aspect relates to a method, for example, a method for conditioning an article, which includes shaping, altering, or modifying the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy emitted by a light source, and irradiating the article with electromagnetic energy having the shaped, altered, or modified intensity distribution.

[0221] The method may include shaping, changing, or modifying the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy along the direction of transport in which the article is being carried.

[0222] The method may include shaping, altering, or modifying the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy using freeform mirrors or lenses.

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

[0224] The optical instrument may be configured to shape, alter, or modify the horizontal or vertical intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy or a laser beam. The horizontal intensity distribution may be along a transport means or conveyor, or at least one thereof. The horizontal intensity distribution may be along a specific or certain transport or movement direction of one or more containers or container necks, which may include closures installed on the containers or container necks. The optical instrument may be configured to shape, alter, or modify the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy or a laser beam along a specific or certain transport or movement direction of one or more containers or container necks.

[0225] The optical instrument can shape, change, or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam, and concentrate the laser beam on a predetermined area of ​​the closure or tamper-evident band, for example, its lower end, free end, or terminal end. In embodiments where a fixing function can be generated using the laser beam, the optical instrument can shape, change, or modify the intensity distribution of the laser beam, and concentrate the laser beam on a predetermined area of ​​the cylindrical skirt of the closure.

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

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

[0228] The system may include means or devices for removing liquids such as water or beverage media from the heated or irradiated surface. The means or devices for removing liquids such as water or beverage media may include a fluid source or an air source, such as a fluid flow or air flow induction means. The means or devices for removing liquids such as water or beverage media may include a fluid or air jet means or device. The means or devices for removing liquids such as water or beverage media may include an air knife.

[0229] Alternatively, the reshaping member, or each reshaping member, or at least one reshaping member, may comprise mechanical deformation means, members, elements, or mechanisms. The reshaping member, or each reshaping member, or at least one reshaping member, may be configured to mechanically deform one or more local areas of the closure or container neck or tamper-evident band, for example, to engage the tamper-evident band with the container neck.

[0230] The reshaping member, or each reshaping member, or at least one reshaping member, may be equipped with a means or member or element or mechanism for drilling or puncturing. The reshaping member, or each reshaping member, or at least one reshaping member, may be configured to drill or puncture one or more local areas of the closure or container neck, or the tamper-evident band, thereby deforming, for example, a portion of the closure or container neck, or the tamper-evident band, and / or to engage the tamper-evident band with the container neck.

[0231] In other embodiments, the reshaping member, or each reshaping member, or at least one reshaping member may be equipped with an ultrasonic energy source. The method may include directing ultrasonic energy towards a closure or a portion of the container neck to reshape the closure or container neck and engaging one or more tamper-evident features with the container neck.

[0232] Additionally or alternatively, the reshaping member or heating element, or each reshaping member or heating element, or at least one reshaping member or heating element, may comprise rollers, bands, or wires, which are not required but may be heated. The system may be configured to heat the rollers, bands, or wires. The rollers, bands, or wires may be configured to apply heat to the closure or part of the container neck being reshaped, or to the tamper-evident feature(s). In some embodiments, the rollers, bands, or wires can be heated and may be positioned adjacent to the closure or part of the container neck being reshaped, or to the tamper-evident feature(s). In other embodiments, the rollers, bands, or wires may be heated or not heated, and may be moved relative to the closure or part of the container neck being reshaped, or to the tamper-evident feature(s).

[0233] Additionally or alternatively, the reshaping member, or each reshaping member, or at least one reshaping member, may be equipped with a fluid source such as air or water, e.g., an air knife, which may, though not required, be heated. The method may include directing the fluid source towards a closure or a portion of the container neck to reshape the closure or a portion of the container neck, for example, to engage one or more tamper-evident features with the container neck. The fluid source may be included in or as part of a transport means, conveyor, or transport system. Additionally or alternatively, the fluid source may be included as a separate or independent station.

[0234] The system may be configured to heat the airflow by an air knife during use. The fluid source may be configured to apply heat to the closure or part of the container neck to be reshaped, or to the tamper-evident feature(s). In some embodiments, the fluid source can be heated and may be positioned adjacent to the closure or part of the container neck to be reshaped, or to the tamper-evident feature(s). In other embodiments, the fluid source can be heated or not, and the fluid may be configured to be directed toward the closure or part of the container neck to be reshaped, or to the tamper-evident feature(s), at a speed configured to reshape the closure or part of the container neck to be reshaped, or to the tamper-evident feature(s), thereby enabling the tamper-evident feature(s) to engage with the container neck.

[0235] The method may include directing a heated air knife towards a closure or a portion of the container neck to reshape the closure or portion of the container neck, for example, to engage one or more tamper-evident features with the container neck.

[0236] The system may include, for example, perforating, slitting, or cutting means or assemblies for perforating, slitting, or cutting a container neck, closure, cylindrical skirt, tamper-evident feature, or a membrane connecting the tamper-evident feature to the closure or cylindrical skirt. The perforating, slitting, or cutting means or assemblies may be located upstream, downstream, adjacent to, or along at least one source of electromagnetic energy. The perforating, slitting, or cutting means or assemblies may include mechanical deformation means or devices for mechanically deforming the closure or part of the container neck or the tamper-evident feature(s) to be reshaped, such as spikes. The perforating, slitting, or cutting means or assemblies may include heating means, such as a heating element, for applying heat to the closure or part of the container neck or the tamper-evident feature(s) to be reshaped.

[0237] The system may include or form part of a packaging system, which may comprise a visual inspection station, a filling station, a lid-attaching station, a labeling station, a coding station, a laser marking station, and / or a box-filling station. The system may be located before or after one of the above-mentioned stations, or between two of the above-mentioned stations. The system may be incorporated into or form part of one of the above-mentioned systems.

[0238] The method may include reshaping the closure or a portion of the container neck at the same time as, or after, the lid is attached to the container or closure. When the closure or a portion of the container neck is reshaped at the same time as the lid is attached to the container or closure, the timing or sequence of the reshaping is preferably configured or selected such that the reshaping occurs after the closure has reached the lid attachment position on the container neck.

[0239] The method may include reshaping the closure or a portion of the container neck at the same time as, or after, the label is affixed to the container or closure. The method may include reshaping the closure or a portion of the container neck at the same time as, or after, the container or closure is coded. The method may include reshaping the closure or a portion of the container neck at the same time as, or after, the container or closure is laser marked. The method may include reshaping the closure or a portion of the container neck at the same time as, or after, the container or closure is boxed.

[0240] The system may include or form part of a visual inspection station. The visual inspection station may be equipped with one or more vision systems or cameras and / or may be operable or configured to identify one or more defects in the closure, container, or package, such as deformation, reshaping, or shrinkage of the tamper-evident feature or defects in welding. The system may include or form part of a container lid mounting station or system. The container lid mounting station or system may be equipped with a heating ring, which may be incorporated into the lid mounting chuck, or may be coaxial with or separate from the lid mounting chuck. Additionally or alternatively, the system may include or form part of a container labeling station or system. Additionally or alternatively, the system may include or form part of a coding station or system. Additionally or alternatively, the system may include a standalone station for integration into a packaging system.

[0241] Another broader aspect relates to a means or assembly for drilling, slitting, or cutting a closure, a cylindrical skirt, a tamper-evident component, or a membrane connecting the tamper-evident component to the closure or cylindrical skirt.

[0242] A drilling, slitting, or cutting means or assembly may comprise one or more, for example, multiple, spikes, or saw teeth or saw surfaces. A drilling, slitting, or cutting means or assembly may comprise a slitting bar or plate or element, which may comprise spikes(s) or saw teeth or saw surfaces. A drilling, slitting, or cutting means or assembly may comprise a transport means or assembly, for example, a conveyor. A transport means or assembly may comprise one or more, for example, multiple carriages, which may be movably fixed on, to, or along the transport means or assembly. A carriage, or each carriage, may be operable or configured to hold, transport, affect, or move a closure, or a corresponding closure, for example, while positioned on a container. At least one carriage, or each carriage, may comprise rolling means, such as a pair of rollers. The rolling mechanism may be operable or configured to move a closure relative to the spikes, or the saw teeth or saw surface.

[0243] Alternatively, the perforation, slitting, or cutting means or assembly may comprise a laser or laser cutter. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic energy source(s) comprises at least one source of electromagnetic energy that is operable or configured to operate as a laser cutter and / or to perforate or slit a closure, cylindrical skirt, tamper-evident feature, or a membrane connecting the tamper-evident feature to the closure or cylindrical skirt.

[0244] Another broader embodiment relates to a package, which may include the closure described above, which is installed at the neck of the container.

[0245] The tamper-proof function(s) can engage with the container neck. The tamper-proof function(s) can engage with the container neck in such a way that, for example, when the closure is removed from the container neck, the tamper-proof function(s) can be prevented from being removed from the container neck. The tamper-proof function(s) can engage with the container neck in such a way that they have one or more other degrees of mobility. In some cases, the tamper-proof function(s) can engage with the container neck, allowing them to move or rotate relative to each other, for example, allowing the closure to loosen from the container neck, or at least rotate relative to the container neck.

[0246] In some embodiments of the package, the free end of the tamper-evident band is deformed inward to create a lip for engaging a tamper-evident feature or flange with the container neck, for example. The tamper-evident feature(s) or band may be deformed inward around at least a portion of its circumference. The lip may extend around at least a portion of its circumference. The lip may allow the closure to rotate around the container neck. The lip may prevent axial movement of the tamper-evident feature(s) so as to keep the tamper-evident feature(s) on the container neck when the closure is removed from the container neck, for example. The lip may rotate the closure relative to the container neck while engaging the tamper-evident feature or flange axially, thereby preventing the tamper-evident feature or flange from being removed from the container neck, for example.

[0247] In some embodiments of the package, at least a portion of the tamper-evident feature(s), such as a tamper-evident band or panel, or the rim of a cylindrical skirt, is welded to the neck of the container. The tamper-evident feature(s) or band can be welded to the neck of the container, centered on at least a portion of its periphery.

[0248] At least one part of the tamper-evident feature, for example, a tamper-evident band, tab, rim, or panel, may be crystallized or may have a color or opacity indicating a tamper-evident band that has been reshaped to engage with the neck of the container.

[0249] Another broader embodiment relates to a package including a closure installed on the neck of the container, for example, the closure described above, wherein at least a portion of the closure, or one or more tamper-evident functional parts, have a color or opacity indicating a tamper-evident band that is crystallized or reshaped to engage with the neck of the container.

[0250] In some embodiments, the method, or the reshaping of a portion of the closure or container neck, may, though not essential, include reshaping, deforming, or shrinking a portion of the container neck to engage, for example, a tamper-evident feature(s) with a portion of the container neck.

[0251] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for installing a closure on the neck of a container, the method comprising: positioning the closure across the neck of the container; and reshaping, deforming, or shrinking a portion of the neck of the container to engage one or more tamper-evident features with the neck of the container.

[0252] The container neck may have a flange comprising an upright annular wall. The method may include reshaping, deforming, or shrinking a portion of the upright annular wall to engage with one or more tamper-evident features of the closure, such as a tamper-evident band. The tamper-evident band may include an engaging feature on its outer surface. The engaging feature may include a flange.

[0253] Another broader embodiment relates to a container or preform having a neck with radial flanges having upright walls around its periphery, wherein the walls are configured to engage with or be reshaped during use with one or more tamper-evident features of a closure installed thereon, such as a tamper-evident band.

[0254] Another broader embodiment relates to a package or parts kit, comprising a container or premolded article and a closure comprising a tamper-evident band having an engaging function for cooperating with an upright wall.

[0255] Another broader embodiment relates to a package comprising a container or pre-molded article and a closure comprising a tamper-evident band having an engaging function portion engaged with an upright wall.

[0256] In another embodiment, a separate connection element can be used to connect the tamper-evident function unit(s) to the neck of the container.

[0257] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for installing a closure on the neck of a container, the method comprising: arranging the closure across the neck of the container; and reshaping a connecting element to engage one or more tamper-evident features of the closure with the neck of the container.

[0258] Another broader embodiment relates to a package or parts kit comprising a container, a closure, and a connecting element, wherein the connecting element is configured to engage or reshape during use one or more tamper-evident features of the closure with the neck of the container.

[0259] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for installing a closure on the neck of a container, the method comprising: arranging the closure across the neck of the container; and reshaping a connecting element to engage one or more tamper-evident features of the closure or the connecting element with the neck of the container.

[0260] The connecting element may include a connecting ring. The method may involve deforming or shrinking a portion of the connecting element to engage with one or more tamper-evident features of the closure, for example, a shrinkage feature. The tamper-evident band may include an engaging feature on its outer surface. The engaging feature may include a flange. The method may involve deforming or shrinking a portion of the connecting element to engage with one or more tamper-evident features of the container neck, for example, an engaging flange.

[0261] The method may include installing, deforming, or contracting a portion of the connecting element to engage one or more tamper-evident features of the closure, for example, one or more tamper-evident hooks, with the container neck. The tamper-evident features may include one or more, for example, a tamper-evident band having multiple hanging hooks. The hanging hooks may be open outwards. The connecting ring may, for example, move the hanging hooks toward the container neck when installing and / or deforming or contracting the connecting element or the ring, either onto or across the closure.

[0262] Another broader aspect of the method involves installing a closure on the neck of a container, the method comprising: positioning the closure across the neck of the container; and installing a connecting element or ring on one or more tamper-evident hooks destructibly connected to the closure; and moving the hooks to engage with the neck of the container.

[0263] Another broader embodiment relates to a closure for sealing a neck opening of a container, the closure comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall, and one or more tamper-evident hooks destructibly connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident hooks are configured to be moved during use and to engage with the neck of the container by a connecting element or ring.

[0264] One or more tamper-evident hooks may hang from a tamper-evident band. The tamper-evident band may be destructibly connected to the cylindrical skirt. One or more tamper-evident hooks are destructibly connected to the cylindrical skirt by or via the tamper-evident band. The tamper-evident hooks may be open to the outside.

[0265] Another broader aspect relates to a combination of the closures of the preceding aspect, combined with a connecting element or ring.

[0266] The connecting element or ring may be configured, for example, to move the tamper-evident hook toward the container neck during installation and / or deformation or contraction of the connecting element or ring toward or across the closure during use.

[0267] In some embodiments, the connecting element may include a sleeve. The sleeve may include one or more tamper-evident features.

[0268] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for installing a closure on the neck of a container, the method comprising: positioning the closure across the neck of the container; and reshaping a sleeve to engage one or more tamper-evident features of the closure or the sleeve with the neck of the container.

[0269] Another broader embodiment relates to a package or parts kit comprising a container, a closure, and a connecting element or sleeve, wherein the connecting element or sleeve is configured to be reshaped during use and to engage with both the closure and the container neck, and comprises one or more tamper-evident features.

[0270] The connecting element or sleeve may include an oversleeve. The connecting element or sleeve may include a first part, the first part may be configured to remain on the closure when removed from the container neck. The connecting element or sleeve may include a second part, the second part may be configured to remain on the container neck when the closure is removed from the container neck. The first part may be connected to the second part by a destructible connection. The destructible connection may include one or more destructible lines. The destructible lines may extend around the periphery of the connecting element or sleeve.

[0271] The connecting element or sleeve can be separated from the container and closure.

[0272] Another broader embodiment relates to a package or part comprising a container and a closure comprising a connecting sleeve, wherein the connecting sleeve is configured to be reshaped during use and engage with the neck of the container and comprises one or more tamper-evident features.

[0273] The connecting sleeve may be equipped with a tamper-evident band, or can be provided by a tamper-evident band.

[0274] Tamper-evident bands may include or be equipped with specific or certain connecting sleeves.

[0275] The connecting element or ring may hang down from the tamper-evident band. The connecting element or ring may be configured to move across the raised outer surface of the tamper-evident band during use, for example, when the closure is installed on the neck of the container, thereby engaging and contacting the tamper-evident band with the flange of the neck of the container.

[0276] Another broader embodiment relates to a closure for sealing a neck opening of a container, the closure comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall, a tamper-evident band destructibly connected to the cylindrical skirt, and a ring hanging from the tamper-evident band, wherein the connecting ring is configured to move over the raised outer surface of the tamper-evident band during use when the closure is installed on the neck of the container, thereby engaging and contacting the tamper-evident band with the flange of the neck of the container.

[0277] The tamper-evident band may include an annular projection, which may protrude inward, for example, before the closure is installed on the neck of the container. The tamper-evident band or annular projection may include a lip that protrudes inward, for example, before the closure is installed on the neck of the container. The inwardly protruding lip may be configured to retract and engage with the flange of the neck of the container when the closure is installed on the neck of the container.

[0278] The connecting element or ring may have a cam or cam surface. The raised outer surface of the tamper-evident band may be shaped to cooperate with the cam or cam surface of the connecting ring. The connecting element or ring may be configured to contact a flange on the container neck, or a further flange such as a support ring, when the closure is installed on the container neck during use. The flange or further flange or support ring may press the cam or cam surface of the connecting element or ring against the raised outer surface of the tamper-evident band. The cam or cam surface of the connecting element or ring may cause inward deformation of the lower part of the tamper-evident band, for example, by contracting an annular projection or protruding lip.

[0279] When it contracts and engages with the flange of the container neck, the tamper-evident band can be retained on the container neck so as to sever the bridge and / or separate the tamper-evident band from the rest of the closure by, for example, subsequently removing the closure from the container neck.

[0280] The container neck or the tamper-evident engagement mechanism may, for example, include one or more anti-rotation or fixing mechanisms to prevent the tamper-evident engagement mechanism from rotating or moving relative to the container neck when engaged.

[0281] Another broader embodiment relates to a container or premolded article comprising a neck having a tamper-evident engaging function having one or more anti-rotation or locking functions.

[0282] The tamper-evident engagement mechanism may include a projection, a ring, a flange, or a bead.

[0283] The method may include reshaping a portion of the closure, such as a tamper-evident band, to engage with a specific anti-rotation or locking mechanism on the closure neck, or a certain anti-rotation or locking mechanism. The engaging contact between the anti-rotation or locking mechanism and the portion of the closure or container neck being reshaped may be configured to prevent the tamper-evident mechanism from rotating or moving relative to the container neck. At least one, specific, or each anti-rotation or locking mechanism may comprise a notch, a rib, or a non-circular or elliptical portion of the container neck. The tamper-evident band may be configured to deform or shrink to engage with the anti-rotation or locking mechanism. The anti-rotation or locking mechanism may comprise a ratchet.

[0284] Another broader embodiment relates to a container or premolding having a neck portion having a non-circular tamper-evident engagement function.

[0285] The tamper-evident engagement mechanism may be elliptical and / or may comprise one or more lobes.

[0286] Another broader embodiment relates to a package comprising a container and one or more tamper-evident features, such as a closure with a tamper-evident band, that engage with a non-circular tamper-evident feature of the container.

[0287] The preformed product or container may have a neck portion, which may include one or more of the functional parts of the container neck portion described above. The preformed product or container may have, for example, a fixing function portion on the neck portion. The fixing function portion may include radial structures, such as radial projections. The fixing function portion may include annular structures, such as annular projections. The fixing function portion may include a snap-fitting function portion. Alternatively, the fixing function portion may include helical structures, such as screw threads.

[0288] The pre-molded product or container, or the neck portion, may be provided with a flange, such as a handling flange or a support shelf. The tamper-evident engaging portion may be located between the flange and the fixing portion. The tamper-evident engaging portion may be provided with a recess or groove.

[0289] Another broader embodiment relates to a container or preform, comprising a neck having a fastening function for securing a closure to the neck, a flange below the fastening function, and a tamper-evident device engaging with a recess or groove between the flange and the fastening function.

[0290] The recess or groove may be annular and / or extend from at least a portion of the preform or container or the periphery of the neck. The container or preform may not have any features and / or may lack any projections, such as radial projections, between the tamper-evident device engaging with the recess or groove and the locking mechanism. The neck may include a valley diameter, which includes or corresponds to the smallest outer diameter on, within, or related to the locking mechanism. The tamper-evident device engaging with the recess or groove may have a diameter smaller than the valley diameter of the neck.

[0291] The method may include reshaping a part of the closure, or any part of the tamper-proofing mechanism, so that it engages with a recess or groove in the tamper-proofing device.

[0292] Another broader embodiment relates to a package comprising a container on which a closure is installed, and one or more tamper-evident features of the closure received in a tamper-evident device that engages with a recess or groove.

[0293] The method may include further reshaping a portion of the closure to provide, for example, a fixing function on the inner surface of the closure for cooperation with a fixing function on the neck of the container. The fixing function may include radial structures, such as radial projections. The fixing function may include annular structures, such as annular projections. The fixing function may include snap-fitting functions. Alternatively, the fixing function may include helical structures, such as screw threads.

[0294] Another broader embodiment relates to a parts kit for assembling into a package, the kit comprising a container and a closure, such as the closure described above. The closure may be for sealing the neck opening of the container. The closure may include a top wall. The closure may have a cylindrical skirt, which may hang down from the top wall. The closure may have a tamper-evident band, which may be connected to the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-evident band may be configured not to engage with the container when the closure is installed across the neck opening of the container. The tamper-evident band may be configured so that, during use, the closure installed on the container is reshaped, for example, thereby engaging the tamper-evident band with the container.

[0295] Another broad aspect relates to a parts kit for assembly into a package, the kit comprising a container and a molded closure for sealingly closing the neck opening of the container, the closure comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging down from the top wall, and a tamper band connected to the cylindrical skirt, the tamper band being configured such that when the closure is installed across the neck opening of the container, it does not engage the container and, during use, is reshaped by the closure installed on the container so as to engage the tamper band with the container.

[0296] The container may comprise a neck finish, which may comprise an engagement surface. The tamper band may comprise an engagement surface. For example, when the closure is installed across the neck opening of the container, the engagement surface of the tamper band may be configured to clear the engagement surface of the neck finish. The tamper band is reshaped and, for example, the engagement surface of the tamper band may be configured to engage the engagement surface of the container neck.

[0297] Another broad aspect relates to a parts kit for assembly into a package, the kit comprising a container and a molded closure for engaging the neck finish of the container and sealingly closing the container, the closure comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging down from the top wall, and a tamper band connected to the cylindrical skirt, the tamper band comprising an engagement surface configured to clear the engagement surface of the neck finish of the container when the closure is installed, the tamper band being reshaped and the engagement surface of the tamper band being configured to engage the engagement surface of the container neck.

[0298] Another broad aspect relates to a packaging system including the above-described system.

[0299] Another broad aspect relates, for example, to a molding stack for molding the closure described above. The molding stack can include a molding structure that includes, represents, or defines a cavity for molding the closure described above. The molding stack can include, for example, a molded part removal structure in which its components are separated to inject the molded closure.

[0300] The molding stack may include a stripper sleeve. The stripper sleeve may be movable to contact the annular anti-unsealing band of the molded closure during use. The stripper sleeve can have a first surface and / or a second surface. The first and second surfaces can be, for example, for simultaneously contacting one side and the lower surface of the annular anti-unsealing band, respectively, during strip formation of the molded part.

[0301] The stripper sleeve may include a pocket. The pocket can define a first surface and / or a second surface. The first surface may include a first axial wall. The first axial wall may be configured to engage one side of the anti-unsealing band. The first axial wall can be provided with a stopper. The stopper can define the range of the radial mobility of the anti-unsealing band of the closure during strip formation. The second surface may include a second partition wall. The second partition wall may be configured to engage the lowermost part of the anti-unsealing band.

[0302] The molding stack may include a core, or core portion, or core insert, or core assembly (hereinafter referred to herein as the core). The pocket may be associated with depth. The pocket may have a depth configured such that the release band is substantially isolated from forces applied to the closure to remove the closure from the core, such as axial forces. The depth of the pocket may be substantially the same as, or similar to or equivalent to, the axial height or length of the tamper-evident band and bridge or wrap, if present. The pocket may have a depth such that the upper surface of the stripper sleeve adjacent to the pocket contacts a portion of the rim of the cylindrical skirt during injection, for example, to transfer the injection force to a portion of the rim.

[0303] The depth can represent the distance between the edge and the first axial wall. The depth can be selected so that a portion of the tamper-evident band flexes in a first direction, for example, to clear a molded feature. The depth can be selected to prevent significant damage resulting from "excessive flexing" of a portion of the tamper-evident band in the first direction. The depth of the pocket can be selected to accommodate an acceptable path of movement for a portion of the tamper-evident band.

[0304] The molding stack may include a cavity, or cavity portion, or cavity insert, or cavity assembly (hereinafter referred to as "cavity"). The core may include a molding surface defining the inner portion of the resulting closure. The cavity may include a molding surface defining the outer portion of the resulting closure, for example, at least a portion of the outer surface of the top wall and / or at least a portion of the outer surface of its cylindrical skirt. The core may include a molding surface defining the cavity molding surface in at least a portion of the resulting closure.

[0305] In some embodiments, the molded stack may include slit portions or slit inserts or slides, which may include molded surfaces defining at least a portion of the outer surface of the tamper-evident band and / or at least a portion of the destructible connection, bridge, or membrane of the resulting closure. The slit portions or slit inserts or slides may include molded surfaces defining at least a portion of the outer surface of the cylindrical skirt of the resulting closure.

[0306] In other embodiments, the cavity may include a molded surface that depicts at least a portion of the outer surface of the tamper-proof band and / or at least a portion of the destructible connection or bridge or membrane of the resulting closure. In such embodiments, the tamper-proof band may be larger than the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-proof band may have a diameter larger than the diameter of the cylindrical skirt. The tamper-proof band may be connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane, or by one or more destructible connections or bridges extending radially and / or axially, for example, they may be destructibly connected. The membrane, or the destructible connections or one or more bridges may extend at an angle with respect to both radial and axial directions. The tamper-proof band may be connected to the cylindrical skirt by a radial membrane, or by one or more radial bridges, for example, they may be destructibly connected. The tamper-proof band may be connected to the cylindrical skirt by a cylindrical or frustoconical membrane.

[0307] Another broader embodiment relates to a mold comprising the multiple molding stacks described above.

[0308] Another broader embodiment relates to a molding system comprising the mold described above. The molding system may comprise a molding machine, which may, though not required, be an injection molding machine. The molding machine may comprise a clamp capable of securing the mold. The clamp may comprise a pair of pressure plates, which may be movable toward and away from each other. The mold may comprise two parts, each of which may comprise a part of each molding stack. Each mold may be fixed to one of the pressure plates. The pressure plates may be movable to move the molding stack between the molding structure and the molded product removal structure.

[0309] The molding system may include the aforementioned means for drilling, slitting, or cutting, or an assembly closure. Additionally or alternatively, the molding system may include a system for installing or engaging a closure tamper-evident function with the aforementioned container neck.

[0310] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for installing a thermoplastic closure on the neck of a container, the method comprising: arranging the closure across the neck of the container; and plastically reshaping a portion of the closure to form a fixing function portion on the neck of the container that is compatible with a preliminary fixing function portion.

[0311] The method may include plastically reshaping a portion of the closure by applying heat. The method may also include applying heat to a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall of the closure to reshape, for example, a selected portion of the cylindrical skirt to fit the fixing function of the container neck.

[0312] Heat can be applied by any of the means described above. Heat can be applied so that the plastically shaped portion of the closure crystallizes at least partially. The method may include applying heat to the cylindrical skirt so that at least a portion of the closure or cylindrical skirt, for example, the plastically reshaped portion, crystallizes at least partially. For example, heat can be applied to the entire closure so that the entire closure crystallizes at least partially.

[0313] Another broader embodiment relates to a thermoplastic closure for sealing a neck opening of a container, the closure comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall, and an annular tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the inner surface of the cylindrical skirt is substantially cylindrical, and the closure lacks any fixing mechanism to allow it to be received in an unprotected manner on the neck of the container.

[0314] The tamper-evident band has a substantially cylindrical inner surface that lacks an engaging function for allowing the flange of the container neck to be received on the container neck in a way that prevents tampering.

[0315] Another broader embodiment relates to a package comprising a thermoplastic closure at the neck of a container, wherein the closure comprises a fixing function that fits into a pre-fixing function at the neck of the container, and is formed by plastically reshaping a portion of the closure by heat such that at least the fixing function is at least partially crystallized.

[0316] Another broader embodiment relates to a method for installing a closure on the neck of a container, comprising: positioning the closure across the neck of the container; and irradiating a portion of the closure with a laser to engage the closure with the neck of the container, wherein at least the irradiated portion of the closure comprises polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material.

[0317] Irradiating a portion of the closure with a laser can include directing a substantially planar laser beam toward a portion of the closure or the container neck.

[0318] Another broad aspect is a method of installing a closure on a container neck, the method including disposing the closure across the container neck and irradiating a portion of the closure with a substantially planar laser beam to engage the closure with the container neck.

[0319] The method can include rotating the closure while the closure portion is being irradiated by a substantially planar laser beam.

[0320] The method can include using one or more optical devices to vary, modify, or redirect one or more characteristics of a laser emitted from a light source to provide a substantially planar laser beam.

[0321] The one or more optical devices can include, for example, a rotating polygon mirror for diffusing a laser emitted by a light source.

[0322] The one or more optical devices can include, for example, a freeform mirror for diffusing a laser emitted by a light source.

[0323] The method can include, for example, transporting a plurality of closures along a transport direction, each on a corresponding container neck. The method can include, for example, simultaneously irradiating a portion of each closure with a substantially planar laser beam.

[0324] One or more optical instruments may include one or more mirrors. One or more mirrors may be located on the opposite side of the closure from the light source. At least a portion of the substantially planar laser beam can travel around or between the light source. At least a portion of the substantially planar laser beam can be reflected back by the closure, for example, by one or more mirrors.

[0325] One or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure from the light source may have a series of alternating peaks and troughs.

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

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

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

[0329] With respect to the light source, one or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure may be concave mirrors, which may be associated with each closure.

[0330] The concave mirror(s) can move along the transport direction, for example, together with the closure.

[0331] One or more optical instruments may include scanning lenses. The scanning lenses may be for providing a substantially planar laser beam with a substantially planar focal point, and the focal point may be aligned with the transport direction.

[0332] The method may include supporting radial support flanges on the neck of the container. The method may include engaging the opposite side of the container body hanging down from the neck of the container to transport the container along the transport direction, and / or to rotate the container and closure as they are transported along the transport direction.

[0333] The method may involve using a pair of conveyors to engage the opposite side of the container body. Each conveyor can engage the container body at a different axial position.

[0334] A substantially planar laser beam can be directed along a portion of the closure's tamper-evident band, allowing, for example, the tamper-evident band to engage with the flange at the neck of the container.

[0335] The interlocking surfaces of the tamper-evident band may be configured to clear the flange when the closure is positioned across the neck of the container. The interlocking surfaces of the tamper-evident band may also be configured to engage the flange when the closure is removed from the neck of the container, for example, after the tamper-evident band has been illuminated by a substantially planar laser beam.

[0336] The tamper-evident band may have a substantially cylindrical inner surface, which can be formed, for example, by a substantially cylindrical outer surface of a core to prevent internal stress within the molded tamper-evident band.

[0337] The substantially cylindrical inner surface of the tamper-evident band may lack any engaging functional parts.

[0338] The tamper-evident band can have a substantially constant wall thickness. The wall thickness can be 0.3 mm to 0.8 mm. The wall thickness can be 0.35 mm to 0.8 mm, for example, 0.4 mm to 0.75 mm.

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

[0340] The closure portion can be irradiated in such a way that a predetermined temperature difference is created between the outer surface and the inner surface of the closure portion.

[0341] Illuminating the closure portion may include generating a visual indicator. Generating a visual indicator may include crystallizing the closure portion. Generating a visual indicator may include changing the color or opacity of the closure portion.

[0342] The closure portion may contain additives. The additives may be configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period of time.

[0343] The closure may include a multimodal PET material. The multimodal PET material may include, or be composed of, a first PET having a first molecular weight, for example. The multimodal PET material may include, or be composed of, a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight, for example.

[0344] The closure may contain PET having an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dL / g, for example, less than 0.7 dL / g.

[0345] The method may include forming a closure from PET having an intrinsic viscosity of 0.4 dL / g to 0.8 dL / g. The method may also include forming a closure from PET having an intrinsic viscosity of 0.3 dL / g to 0.7 dL / g.

[0346] The method may include, for example, creating a tamper-evident connection between the closure and the closure by perforating, slitting, or cutting the membrane connecting the closure to the closure while the closure is installed at the neck of the container.

[0347] Another broader embodiment relates to a system for engaging closures with container necks, the system comprising: a transport means for transporting one or more containers, each having a closure on its neck, along a transport direction; and a laser assembly that, as the containers are transported along the transport direction, is operable to illuminate specific or substantially planar portions of each closure with a laser beam, thereby engaging the closures with the container necks.

[0348] For example, while the closure portion is illuminated by a substantially planar laser beam, the transport means may be operable to rotate the closure and the container neck.

[0349] The system may include one or more optical instruments. These optical instruments may modify one or more characteristics of the laser emitted by the light source, for example, to provide, change, or redirect a substantially planar laser beam.

[0350] One or more optical instruments may include, for example, a rotating polygonal mirror for diffusing a laser emitted by a light source.

[0351] One or more optical instruments may include, for example, free-form mirrors for diffusing lasers emitted by a light source.

[0352] One or more optical instruments may comprise one or more mirrors, which may be located on the opposite side of the closure or carrier from the light source. One or more mirrors may be for reflecting at least a portion of a substantially planar laser beam moving behind the closure, around the closure, or between them.

[0353] One or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure from the light source may have a series of alternating peaks and troughs. At least some of the series of peaks and troughs may be substantially identical or of different widths.

[0354] At least one peak, or each peak, may have a pair of opposing flanks. The flanks, or each flank, may be substantially flat or planar.

[0355] With respect to the light source, one or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure may include concave mirrors that can be associated with each closure.

[0356] The concave mirror can move, for example, along the transport direction, together with the closure.

[0357] One or more optical instruments may include, for example, a scanning lens for providing a substantially planar laser beam with a substantially planar focal point along the transport direction.

[0358] The transport means may include, for example, rails for supporting the radial support flanges of the container neck. The transport means may include one or more, for example, a pair of conveyors. The pair of conveyors can engage the opposite side of the container body hanging from the container neck. The pair of conveyors can engage the opposite side of the container body to transport the container along the transport direction and / or rotate the container and closure as they are transported along the transport direction.

[0359] The first conveyor can be positioned further away from the rail than the second conveyor, for example, to engage the opposite side of the container body in a different axial direction.

[0360] A substantially planar laser beam can be oriented along the direction of transport.

[0361] The laser assembly may be configured to irradiate the closure portion in such a way that it creates a predetermined temperature difference between the outer surface of the closure portion and the inner surface of the closure portion.

[0362] The system may include, for example, means for drilling, slitting, or cutting the membrane connecting the closure to the tamper-evident part of the closure while the closure is installed on the neck of the container, thereby creating a breakable connection between them.

[0363] Another broader embodiment relates to a closure comprising a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material having an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dL / g, and having an engaging portion that is adapted to be reshaped upon laser irradiation.

[0364] PET may have an intrinsic viscosity of 0.3 dL / g to 0.7 dL / g.

[0365] PET may include multimodal PET material. The multimodal PET material may include, or be formed from, a first PET having a first molecular weight. The multimodal PET material may include, or be composed from, a second PET having, for example, a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

[0366] The engaging portion may include a meshing surface. The meshing surface may be configured to clear the flange of the container neck when the closure is positioned across the container neck. The meshing surface may also be configured to engage the flange when the closure is removed from the container neck after the engaging portion has been irradiated with a laser.

[0367] The closure may include a top wall. The closure may include a cylindrical skirt. The cylindrical skirt may hang down from the top wall. The engaging portion may include an annular tamper-evident band. The tamper-evident band may be connected to the cylindrical skirt.

[0368] Another broader embodiment relates to a closure comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging down from the top wall, and an annular tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt, which is adapted to be reshaped upon laser irradiation, wherein the closure is formed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material, and the tamper-evident band has a substantially cylindrical interlocking surface configured to clear the flange of the container neck when the closure is positioned across the container neck, but to engage the flange when the closure is removed from the container neck after the engaging portion has been laser-irradiated.

[0369] Tamper-evident bands can have virtually no residual hoop stress.

[0370] Another broader embodiment relates to a closure made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material, comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall, and a tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident band has substantially no residual hoop stress and is adapted to be reshaped upon laser irradiation.

[0371] The tamper-evident band may have a free edge. The free edge may be configured to deform, shrink, or curl radially when irradiated with a laser, for example, to form a radial lip for engaging with the flange of the container neck.

[0372] The tamper-evident band may have a substantially cylindrical inner surface, which may lack an engaging mechanism.

[0373] Tamper-evident bands can have a substantially constant wall thickness. The wall thickness can be 0.3 mm to 0.8 mm. The wall thickness can be less than 25% of its axial length. The wall thickness can be less than 20% of its axial length. The wall thickness can be less than 15% of its axial length.

[0374] At least a portion of the connection between the tamper-evident band and the cylindrical skirt may be detachable.

[0375] The tamper-evident band can be connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane. The membrane may have a radial wall thickness that is smaller than the radial wall thickness of the tamper-evident functional part and the cylindrical skirt.

[0376] The tamper-evident band may include a first annular portion. The first annular portion may be connected to the cylindrical skirt of the closure. The tamper-evident band may include a second annular portion. The second annular portion may hang down from the first annular portion. The second annular portion may have a radial wall thickness smaller than that of the first annular portion.

[0377] The closure may be equipped with a tether, which can connect to a tamper-evident band and a cylindrical skirt.

[0378] The engaging portion may contain an additive. The additive may be configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period of time.

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

[0380] Another broader embodiment relates to a molding stack including a molding structure that defines a cavity for forming a closure. The closure may be the closure described above.

[0381] The molding stack may include a stripper sleeve. The stripper sleeve may be movable to contact the tamper-evident band of the molding closure during use. The stripper sleeve may have a first surface and a second surface, respectively, for simultaneously contacting one side and the bottom surface of the tamper-evident band during the stripping of the molding closure.

[0382] The stripper sleeve may have a pocket. The pocket may define a first and a second surface. The pocket may have a depth such that the upper surface of the stripper sleeve adjacent to the pocket contacts a portion of the rim of the cylindrical skirt during injection in order to transfer the injection force to the rim of the cylindrical skirt.

[0383] The molding stack may include a cavity insert or assembly. The cavity insert or assembly may have a molded surface that depicts at least a portion of the outer surface of at least one of the cylindrical skirt and the tamper-evident band, or each of them.

[0384] Another broader embodiment relates to a mold comprising the multiple molding stacks described above.

[0385] Another broader embodiment relates to a molding system comprising the mold described above.

[0386] Another broader embodiment relates to a packaging system comprising the system described above, plus one or more of the following: a visual inspection station, a lid-attaching station, a labeling station, a coding station, a laser marking station, and / or a box-packing station.

[0387] Another broader embodiment relates to a parts kit for assembly into a package, the kit comprising a container and a molded closure for sealing a neck opening of the container, the closure comprising an engaging portion which, when the closure is installed across the neck opening of the container, does not engage with the container, and which, during use, is reshaped when a laser is shone on it together with the closure installed on the container, thereby configuring the engaging portion to engage with the container.

[0388] A closure may include the closures described above.

[0389] Another embodiment relates to a computer program component for use with a simulation means or a three-dimensional additive or subtractive manufacturing means or apparatus, such as a three-dimensional printer or CNC machine, which includes and / or represents and / or defines a three-dimensional design, wherein the three-dimensional design includes a closure, a molding stack, a mold, or any one or more other mold components as described above.

[0390] A further embodiment relates to a computer program component, comprising computer-readable program code means for causing a processor or processing unit to perform an operation that implements one or more steps described in any one of the above-described methods.

[0391] Further embodiments relate to computer program components that are implemented in a computer-readable medium.

[0392] Further embodiments relate to a computer-readable medium having a stored program, wherein the program is arranged to cause a computer to perform operations in order to implement one or more steps of the above-described method.

[0393] Further embodiments relate to control means, control systems, or controllers that include the aforementioned computer program components or computer-readable media.

[0394] To avoid misunderstanding, any feature described herein applies equally to any aspect of the present invention. Within the scope of this application, the claims, and / or the following descriptions and drawings, and in particular, the various aspects, embodiments, examples, and substitutes described in the preceding paragraphs, can be adopted independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and / or configurations in any embodiment can be combined in any way and / or combination, unless such configuration is incompatible.

[0395] To avoid misunderstanding, the terms “may,” “and / or,” “e.g.,” “for example,” and any similar terms used herein should be interpreted as non-limiting, meaning that any configuration described herein is not required to exist. In fact, any combination of any configuration, whether or not they are expressly claimed, is expressly concealed without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0396] The applicant reserves the right to amend any of the originally filed claims to modify any of the originally filed claims or file to any new claims, including, as appropriate, any new claims, which are dependent on and / or invoke any other claims that were not originally claimed in such a manner.

[0397] Here, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present invention are described as merely examples. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0398] [Figure 1] A perspective view of the closure according to the first embodiment is shown. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of the closure. [Figure 3] Figures 1 and 2 show schematic cross-sectional views of the molding stack portion of the molding assembly, taken along the operating axis for molding the closure. [Figure 4] A portion of the molding stack shown in Figure 3 is shown in more detail. [Figure 5] Figures 3 and 4 show an injection molding system equipped with a mold that incorporates multiple molding stacks. [Figure 6] A schematic diagram of the closure conditioning system according to the first embodiment is shown. [Figure 7] The closure conditioning system in Figure 6 shows the closures shown in Figures 1 and 2, installed on the neck of the container while the container is in the initial stages of conditioning. [Figure 8] Figure 6 shows a view similar to Figure 7 during the later stages of conditioning using the closure conditioning system. [Figure 9] A cross-sectional view of the arrangement shown in Figure 8 is provided. [Figure 10] A cross-sectional view of the closure according to another embodiment is shown. [Figure 11] Figure 10 shows a schematic diagram of a slit-forming machine used to form slits in the closure. [Figure 12] Figure 11 shows an alternative slitting bar for use with the slitting machine. [Figure 13] Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of variations in the closure conditioning system. [Figure 14] Figure 6 shows a closure installed at the neck of a container, as conditioned by the closure conditioning system shown in Figure 6, according to another example. [Figure 15] Figure 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the closure. [Figure 16] This shows another example of a closure installed on the neck of a vessel, conditioned using a welding device and the closure conditioning system shown in Figure 6. [Figure 17] This shows a closure installed on the neck of a vessel, conditioned using a welding device and one of the closure conditioning systems shown in Figure 6, according to another example. [Figure 18] This shows another example of a closure installed on the neck of a vessel, conditioned using a welding device and the closure conditioning system shown in Figure 6. [Figure 19] This shows another example of a closure installed on the neck of a vessel, conditioned using a welding device and the closure conditioning system shown in Figure 6. [Figure 20] A schematic diagram of a closure conditioning system according to another embodiment is shown. [Figure 21] A schematic diagram of a closure conditioning system according to another embodiment is shown. [Figure 22] This shows a closure installed at the neck of the container, following another example. [Figure 23] Figure 22 is an enlarged view of the tamper-evident mechanism of the closure. [Figure 24] This shows a closure installed at the neck of the container, following another example. [Figure 25] A side view of the closure according to another embodiment is shown. [Figure 26] Figure 25 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the closure, specifically the lower part of the cylindrical skirt and tamper-evident band. [Figure 27] This view is similar to the partial cross-sectional view in Figure 26, featuring an inwardly deformed tamper-evident tab. [Figure 28] A schematic plan view of the rollers of a closure conditioning system in operation, according to another embodiment, is shown. [Figure 29] This shows a schematic side view of the arrangement in Figure 28, with the container body omitted. [Figure 30] A schematic plan view of the wires of a closure conditioning system in operation, according to another embodiment, is shown. [Figure 31]This shows a schematic side view of the arrangement in Figure 30, with the container body omitted. [Figure 32] A schematic plan view of the infrared emitter of a closure conditioning system in operation, according to another embodiment, is shown. [Figure 33] Figure 32 shows a schematic side view of the arrangement, with the container body omitted. [Figure 34] A schematic plan view of the microwave emitter of a closure conditioning system in operation, according to another embodiment, is shown. [Figure 35] Figure 34 shows a schematic side view of the arrangement, with the container body omitted. [Figure 36] A schematic plan view of the air knife of the closure conditioning system in operation, according to another embodiment, is shown. [Figure 37] Figure 36 shows a schematic side view of the arrangement, with the container body omitted. [Figure 38] A schematic plan view of the ultrasonic device of a closure conditioning system in operation, according to another embodiment, is shown. [Figure 39] Figure 30 shows a schematic plan view of the wire, which has been reshaped to combine a different closure with the container neck. [Figure 40] Figure 39 shows a schematic side view of the arrangement, with the container body omitted. [Figure 41] This shows a schematic side view of a combination of a separate closure and the container neck, with the container body omitted. [Figure 42] A cross-sectional view is shown along line AA in Figure 41. [Figure 43] A view similar to Figure 42 is shown, illustrating an alternative arrangement. [Figure 44] This shows a partial cross-sectional view of the lower part of the combination of another closure and the container neck. [Figure 45] This view is similar to the partial cross-sectional view in Figure 44, featuring an inwardly deformed tamper-evident band. [Figure 46] This shows a partial cross-sectional view of the lower part of the combination of another closure and the container neck. [Figure 47]This view is similar to the partial cross-sectional view in Figure 46, featuring an inwardly contracted tamper-evident band. [Figure 48] A schematic side view is shown of a combination of a separate closure and the container neck, with the separate connecting ring and the container body omitted. [Figure 49] Figure 48 shows the combination of the closure and the container neck, with the connecting ring reshaped and the tamper-evident band of the closure engaged with the container neck. [Figure 50] A schematic side view of multiple wires of a closure conditioning system in operation, according to another embodiment, is shown. [Figure 51] Figure 50 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the lower part of the closure and container neck combination after conditioning using the configuration shown. [Figure 52] This shows a partial cross-sectional view of the lower part of the combination of the other closures and the container neck before conditioning. [Figure 53] This view, similar to the partial cross-sectional view in Figure 52, shows the tamper-evident band of the closure after it has been reshaped. [Figure 54] The container body is omitted, and the tamper-evident band provides an unbreakable connection to the cylindrical skirt, showing a different combination of closure and container neck. [Figure 55] This shows another combination of closure and container neck, where the container body is omitted and the tamper-evident band has multiple axial ribs. [Figure 56] A schematic diagram shows a lid mounting device that incorporates a heating ring for conditioning the closure when installed at the neck of the container. [Figure 57] A schematic diagram shows a lid mounting device that incorporates a laser for conditioning the closure when it is installed on the neck of the container. [Figure 58] This shows a partial cross-sectional view of the lower part of another closure on the molded core immediately after molding. [Figure 59]This view is similar to the partial cross-sectional view in Figure 58, showing the tamper-evident band being deformed outward as it is injected from the molding core. [Figure 60] This shows a partial cross-sectional view of the lower part of another closure on the molded core immediately after molding. [Figure 61] This view is similar to the partial cross-sectional view in Figure 60, showing the tamper-evident band being deformed outward as it is injected from the molded core. [Figure 62] A cross-sectional view of the closure according to another embodiment is shown. [Figure 63] A closure according to another embodiment is shown. [Figure 64] A closure according to yet another embodiment is shown. [Figure 65] A schematic diagram of another closure conditioning system incorporated into a labeling device or lid attachment device is shown. [Figure 66] A schematic diagram of a closure conditioning system according to another embodiment is shown. [Figure 67] A schematic diagram of a closure conditioning system according to yet another embodiment is shown. [Figure 68] A perspective view of the closure according to another embodiment is shown. [Figure 69] Figure 68 shows a cross-sectional view of the closure. [Figure 70] The closure conditioning system in Figure 6 shows the closures in Figures 68 and 69, which are installed on the neck of the container while the container is in the initial stages of conditioning. [Figure 71] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the arrangement shown in Figure 70 during the later stages of conditioning using the closure conditioning system. [Figure 72] A schematic plan view of the rollers of a closure conditioning system in operation, according to another embodiment, is shown. [Figure 73] A perspective view of the closure according to another embodiment is shown. [Figure 74]Figure 73 shows a plan view of the closure after it has been removed from the container neck. [Figure 75] A cross-sectional view of the closure according to another embodiment is shown. [Figure 76] A schematic exploded side view is shown of another combination of closure and container neck, which includes a separate connecting ring. [Figure 77] Figure 76 shows the combination of the closure and the container neck, with the closure's connecting ring and tamper-evident hook engaged with the container neck. [Figure 78] A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of another closure, which includes an integrated connecting ring, is shown during installation on the neck of the container. [Figure 79] Figure 78 shows the combination of the closure and the container neck, with the closure's tamper-evident band having a connecting ring that engages with the container neck. [Figure 80] A schematic plan view of a closure conditioning system according to another embodiment is shown, illustrating the horizontal laser intensity distribution during operation and to which the closure is supplied. [Figure 81] A schematic plan view of a closure conditioning system according to yet another embodiment is shown, which is in operation and exhibits a horizontal laser intensity distribution similar to that in Figure 80. [Figure 82] The closure shows an exemplary vertical laser intensity distribution, associated with the horizontal laser intensity distribution, provided by the closure conditioning system in Figures 80 and 81. [Figure 83] A schematic plan view of a closure conditioning system according to yet another embodiment, which includes a scanning lens, is shown. [Figure 84] A schematic plan view of a closure conditioning system according to yet another embodiment, which includes a sawtooth reflector, is shown. [Figure 85] Figure 84 shows a magnified view of the illumination of the closure by the reflected beam in the system shown. [Figure 86] A schematic plan view of a closure conditioning system according to yet another embodiment, featuring an improved sawtooth reflector, is shown. [Figure 87] Figure 86 shows a magnified view of the illumination of the closure by the reflected beam in the system shown. [Figure 88] A perspective view of an alternative means of transport is shown. [Figure 89] Figure 88 shows a view of the alternative transport method. [Figure 90] Figure 88 shows a side view of the alternative transport method.

[0399] [Detailed description of the invention] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, a closure 1 is shown for sealing the opening of the container neck 2 (shown in Figures 7-9). In this embodiment, both the closure 1 and the container neck 2 are made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). However, it is conceivable that the closure 1 can be made of another material, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE). In fact, all closures described later can be made of either PET or HDPE.

[0400] The closure 1 comprises a top wall 3 and a side wall or cylindrical skirt 4 having a substantially planar rim 40 hanging down from the top wall 3 and defining the open end of the closure 1. The closure 1 also comprises an annular tamper-evident band 5, which is destructibly connected to the planar rim 40 of the cylindrical skirt 4 by a plurality of bridges 41.

[0401] The tamper-evident band 5 in this embodiment has a smooth, substantially cylindrical inner surface 50 that lacks an engaging function. Therefore, the engaging function or flange 20 of the container neck 2 (shown in Figure 9) can be inserted into it without obstruction. The tamper-evident band 5 also has a substantially uniform radial wall thickness, which tapers towards its open end 51. In this embodiment, the substantially uniform radial wall thickness of the tamper-evident band 5 is approximately 0.4 mm. However, this wall thickness is preferably 0.5 mm or less, although it is conceivable that it may be thinner, for example, 0.3 mm, or thicker.

[0402] The closure 1 of this embodiment includes a fixing function portion 6 in the form of a thread 60 that protrudes from the inner surface of the cylindrical skirt 4 and is formed integrally with it. The closure 1 also includes a sealing function portion 7 in the form of inner and outer annular sealing elements 70, 71 that hang down from the top wall 3 and are formed integrally with it. It will be understood that one or more threads 60 may be provided, or snaps may be provided instead of threads 60.

[0403] Referring here to Figures 3-5, a portion of the molding stack 102, obtained along the operating axis, for molding the closure 1 of Figures 1 and 2, is shown. The molding stack 102 may be a portion of the mold 101, shown in Figure 5, which can be placed within the clamp 10 of the injection molding machine 11. Note that the implementation of the mold 101, clamp 10, and injection molding machine 11 may be typical in prior art implementations and therefore not described herein. The mold 101 does not have to be injection molded. The mold 101 may instead be an injection compression mold, compression mold, transfer molding mold, etc. (and related machinery).

[0404] The molding stack 102 comprises a core assembly 104 and a cavity assembly 106. The cavity assembly 106 comprises a gate insert 108 and a cavity insert 110. The general purpose of the gate insert 108 is to receive the nozzle (not shown) of the hot runner 12 during use and to provide a path for the molten material to the molding cavity 112. The cavity insert 110 defines a portion of the molding cavity 112, and more specifically, the outer wall of the top wall 3 and cylindrical skirt 4 of the closure 1, which are defined within the molding cavity 112. The cavity insert 110 also comprises a cooling channel through which a suitable coolant (e.g., water) can circulate between the appropriate parts of the molding cycle.

[0405] The core assembly 104 comprises a first internal core 116, a second internal core 118, an external core 120, a stripper sleeve 122, and a pair of split inserts 124. The general functions of the components of the core assembly 104 are well known to those skilled in the art, so only a brief description is provided here.

[0406] The purpose of the first internal core 116 is to define the inner portion of the top wall 3 of the closure 1. In this embodiment, the first internal core 116 comprises a first internal core portion 126 and a second internal core portion 128. The first internal core portion 126 and the second internal core portion 128 can be made of different materials, such as materials with different thermal conductivity or different wear resistance. The first internal core portion 126 and the second internal core portion 128 can be made of different materials to improve heat dissipation between these portions. For example, the first internal core portion 126 may be made of stainless steel (DIN: 1.4528), and the second internal core portion 128 may be made of AMPCOLOY 940. Other materials may also be conceivable.

[0407] The first internal core 116 can be produced in three or more parts, or it can take the form of a single, integrated structure. The first internal core 116 is configured to move axially under the power of an actuator (not shown). The first internal core 116 is provided with internal cooling channels (not otherwise numbered) through which a suitable coolant (e.g., water) can circulate between the appropriate parts of the molding cycle.

[0408] The purpose of the second internal core 118 is to define a portion of the top wall 3 of the closure 1. The second internal core 118 also defines a portion of the plug seal (not otherwise numbered), which hangs down from the top wall 3 of the closure 1. In this embodiment, the second internal core 118 is stationary.

[0409] The purpose of the outer core 120 is to define (i) another part of the plug seal and the top wall 3 of the closure 1 (including its centering ring), (ii) the inner portion of the cylindrical skirt 4 of the closure 1 including the threads 60, and (iii) the innermost and lowest part of the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1. In this embodiment, the outer core 120 comprises a first outer core portion 130 and a second outer core portion 132. The first outer core portion 130 and the second outer core portion 132 can be made of different materials, such as materials with different thermal conductivity or different wear resistance. In some embodiments, the first outer core portion 130 and the second outer core portion 132 can be made of different materials to improve heat dissipation between these portions. The first outer core portion 130 may be made of stainless steel (DIN: 1.2767), although this is not required, and the second outer core portion 132 may be made of AMPCOLOY 940. The external core 120 is not mandatory, but it can be generated from three or more parts, or it can take the form of an integrated structure.

[0410] The first external core portion 130 is configured to define the innermost and lowest part of the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1. As described above, the tamper-evident band 5 has a substantially cylindrical inner surface 50, which is smooth and lacks any engaging function. As a result, removing the molded product from the external core 120, particularly the first external core portion 130, becomes easier, and less strain is placed on the bridge 41 and the tamper-evident band 5. Consequently, these structures can be made thinner, and even more weight is reduced. The first external core portion 130 can also define a portion of the inner part of the cylindrical skirt 4, although this is not the case in this embodiment.

[0411] The second external core portion 132 is configured to define a part of the plug seal, the inner surface of the skirt 4, and the aforementioned portion of the top wall 3 of the closure 1. The external core 120 is configured to move axially under the power of an actuator (not shown).

[0412] The split insert 124 is configured to define a portion of the outer part of the skirt 4 of the closure 1, including but not limited to a tamper-evident band 5 and a bridge 41 connecting the tamper-evident band 5 to the remainder of the skirt 4 of the closure 1. The portion of the split insert 124 is configured to move transversely under the power of an actuator (not shown).

[0413] The stripper sleeve 122 is configured to assist in stripping the molded stack 102 from the closure 1, as detailed below. The stripper sleeve 122 is configured to move axially, i.e., left to right as seen in Figure 3, under the power of an actuator (not shown). More specifically, the stripper sleeve 122 is configured to move between a "contracted structure" as shown in Figure 3 and an "extended structure" (not shown) that is generally located axially to the right as seen in Figure 3.

[0414] Figure 4 shows a portion of the molding stack 102 in more detail. The stripper sleeve 122 includes a pocket 123. The pocket 123 is defined by a first axial wall 125 and a second partition wall 127. During use, during the partial injection function, the stripper sleeve 122 extends toward an extended structure under the power of an actuator (not shown), in which the stripper sleeve 122 engages with the bottom of the closure 1. More specifically, the pocket 123 engages with the bottom of the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1.

[0415] More specifically, the second partition wall 127 engages with the lower surface of the bottom of the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1, effectively pushing it and moving the stripper sleeve 122 further. At the same time, the first axial wall 125 engages with the lateral portion of the tamper-evident band 5, providing a stopper (i.e., a physical stop) that defines the range of radial movement of the tamper-evident band 5, which occurs when the closure 1 is stripped from the molding stack 102, and in particular when a portion of the closure 1 clears a portion of the outer core 120 (such as a portion of the first outer core portion 130). To avoid misunderstanding, the term “radial movement” means movement in a direction transverse to the axis of the molding stack 102.

[0416] The first axial wall 125 and the second partition wall 127 are positioned at a 90° angle between them, although this angle can be varied. Therefore, the first axial wall 125 and the second partition wall 127 can be positioned at various angles between them.

[0417] In this embodiment, the pocket 123 has a depth that isolates the tamper-evident band 5 from the axial injection force applied to the closure 1 and removes it from the core assembly 104. More specifically, the depth of the pocket is substantially the same as the combined axial height or length of the tamper-evident band 5 and bridge 41. Consequently, the upper surface 129 of the stripper sleeve 122 adjacent to the pocket 123 comes into contact with a portion of the rim 40 of the cylindrical skirt 4 during injection, thereby transferring the injection force to that portion.

[0418] Therefore, the stripper sleeve 122 is movable to contact the closure 1 after the closure 1 has been formed, or in other words, the stripper sleeve 122 does not define any portion of the molding cavity 112 during the molding of the closure 1. The stripper sleeve 122 comprises a first surface (i.e., a first axial wall 125) and a second surface (i.e., a second partition wall 127), which simultaneously engage the sides and bottom of the closure 1 (and more specifically, the bottom of the closure 1, i.e., the bottom and side portions of the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1) during the stripping of the closure 1. At the same time, the upper surface 129 of the stripper sleeve 122 contacts a portion of the rim 40 of the cylindrical skirt 4, thereby transferring most of the injection force to that portion and preventing damage to or excessive deformation of the tamper-evident band 5 and bridge 41.

[0419] In this embodiment, the molding process begins by moving the molding stack 102 to the mold-closed position, as shown in Figure 3. The molding stack 102 is actuated by the clamps 10 of the injection molding machine 11 under sufficient clamping tonnage (i.e., sufficient total tonnage to withstand the injection pressure of the molding material) to form and maintain the mold-closed configuration. More specifically, the core assembly 104 and the cavity assembly 106 are moved to the mold-closed configuration, thereby defining the molding cavity 112 and making it available for receiving the molding material.

[0420] Next, in the mold closed configuration, the molding material is injected under pressure into the molding cavity 112 through the orifice (not otherwise numbered) into the gate insert 108. The molding material is then cooled, and normally, as it solidifies as a molding material, it shrinks when cooled. This allows a packing function to be performed, in which case excess molding material is injected into the molding cavity 112 to counteract the shrinkage of the molding material.

[0421] The molding material is cooled to a temperature safe for injecting closure 1 without significant structural damage. At this point, if the molding material has cooled sufficiently and closure 1 has solidified sufficiently for safe injection, the injection molding process is initiated.

[0422] First, the total tonnage of the clamp is released. Next, the core plate (not shown) housing the core assembly 104 is moved away from the cavity plate (not shown) housing the cavity assembly 106, or the latter is moved away from the former. This allows the cavity plate to be moved away from the core plate. The closure 1 tends to remain associated with the core assembly 104 because it tends to shrink during cooling and due to the number of undercuts associated with the closure 1. Once the closure 1 has sufficiently cleared a portion of the molded cavity 112 associated with the cavity insert 110, the split insert 124, under the control of a suitable actuator (not shown), is moved transversely away from the outer core 120, and thus releases the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1.

[0423] Next, under the power of a suitable actuator (not shown), the stripper sleeve 122 is actuated into an extension structure, thereby engaging the pocket 123 with the bottom of the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1.

[0424] Next, the first internal core 116, the external core 120, and the stripper sleeve 122 move together as a unit, efficiently releasing the plug seal of the closure 1 from the second internal core 118 and the external core 120 located between them (note that in some embodiments, the second internal core 118 remains stationary).

[0425] When the plug seal of closure 1 is released, the outer core 120 becomes immobile (for example, by a stopping actuator or by a physical stop), and the first inner core 116 and stripper sleeve 122 continue to move. The first inner core 116 and stripper sleeve 122 continue to move together, although this is not mandatory, until closure 1 is stripped from the first inner core 116. In other embodiments, the first inner core 116 may become immobile at some point (for example, by a stopping actuator or by a physical stop), and the stripper sleeve 122 completes its stripping operation.

[0426] Effectively, at this point, closure 1 is released (or stripped) from the molding stack 102.

[0427] Referring here to Figure 6, the closure conditioning system 8 schematically shows how it engages the tamper-evident bands 5 of each of the multiple closures 1 with the corresponding containers 9. The system 8 includes a source of electromagnetic radiation in the form of a laser emitter 80, and transport means in the form of first and second conveyors 81, 82 for transporting and rotating the containers 9 in a single file through the system 8. The containers 9 in this embodiment are substantially cylindrical.

[0428] The laser emitter 80 is operable to emit a laser beam, for example, a planar laser beam 83, toward the tamper-evident band 5 as the tamper-evident band 5 is transported by the conveyors 81 and 82. The first conveyor 81 provides a moving horizontal surface 84, which can be provided by a belt or chain link arrangement, as is generally known in the art. The second conveyor 82 comprises an endless belt 85, which extends between a pair of vertically oriented rollers 86, at least one of which is driven to move the endless belt, thereby providing a moving vertical surface 87 that is substantially perpendicular to the moving horizontal surface 84 of the first conveyor 82.

[0429] With respect to the second conveyor 82, the bumper B on the opposite side of the first conveyor 81 slidably engages the container 9 so that as the container 9 moves along the first conveyor 81, the container 9 can be rotated while maintaining its engagement with the second conveyor. Of course, the bumper B can be replaced with a further conveyor that moves appropriately in the same direction as the first conveyor 81, thereby enabling or facilitating the rotation of the container 9 at a desired speed.

[0430] The conditioning system 8 also includes a photoelectric emitter P1 and a reflector P2 located both upstream and downstream of the conveyors 81 and 82 to provide a photoelectric barrier for detecting the presence of containers 9 being transported along the conveyors 81 and 82. These photoelectric barriers are used to selectively activate and deactivate the laser emitter 80 at appropriate times.

[0431] As the container 9 is transported in the first direction D1 by the first conveyor 81, its cylindrical sides come into contact with the moving vertical surface 87 of the second conveyor 82, which moves in the second direction D2, opposite to the first direction. As a result, the container 9 rotates as it moves along the first conveyor 81, thereby illuminating at least a portion of the tamper-evident band 5 around its entire circumference as it moves through the system 8 along direction D1.

[0432] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, a planar laser beam 83 is directed to the bottom of the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1, adjacent to the opening end 51. The laser beam 83 is a laser with a power of approximately 150 W and is configured to irradiate the tamper-evident band 5 for approximately 0.5 seconds. This causes the heated area to contract, creating an undercut with an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the inner lip 52 or the flange 20 of the container neck 2.

[0433] While we do not wish to be bound by any particular logic, it is believed that the contraction of the heated area of ​​the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure is due to the differentially applied heat. More specifically, by directing such a laser beam 83 towards the outer surface of the tamper-evident band for such a period of time, the outer surface is heated while the opposite inner surface of the tamper-evident band 5 remains at a much lower temperature. While we do not wish to be bound by any particular logic, it is believed that this differential temperature produces a “curl” effect that generates the lip 52 shown in Figure 9. It is also believed that this “curl” effect is related to the thermal expansion coefficient of the material. Therefore, the material can be selected or modified to have a specific or desired thermal expansion coefficient.

[0434] Figure 9 shows a closure 1 installed on the neck 2 of the container 9. As shown, the neck 2 includes a tamper-evident flange 20, a support shelf 21 below the tamper-evident flange 20, and threads 22 above the tamper-evident flange 20 for engaging with the threads 60 of the closure 1. The inner lip 52 protrudes toward the container neck 2 below the tamper-evident flange 20.

[0435] In this embodiment, it is preferable that the system 8 is configured such that an inner lip 52 of the closure is formed or reshaped between the flange 20 and the support shelf-like portion 21 below it, having an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the neck portion 2, thereby ensuring that the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1 is rotatable relative to the flange 20 of the container neck portion 2. This rotation can assist in the removal of the closure 1 as shown in Figures 1 and 2. However, it may be advantageous to configure the system 8 such that the inner lip 52 contracts toward the point where it engages with the outer diameter of the neck portion 2 below the flange, thereby preventing or hindering the rotation of the closure. The above approach to securing the tamper-evident device can also be applied to closures that do not need to rotate, such as snap fasteners in closures.

[0436] It is also conceivable that the tamper-evident band 5 of closure 1 may, in some cases, be provided with a cam or tab (not shown), such as those well known in the art. However, in contrast to conventional packaging, i.e., containers and molded closures, the cam and / or tab of the closure is configured to prevent or minimize physical interaction with the pre-structure of the neck finish, e.g., the flange (also called a "pilfer bead"), during the initial application of the closure. The cam and / or tab, positioned to interact with / engage with the flange in the neck finish, is secured to the tamper-evident band of the neck finish only after the tamper-evident band has been reshaped and the lid attached, at least in part. In contrast, in conventional packaging, the cam and / or tab of the closure is configured to physically interact with, i.e., snap-engage, the pre-structure of the neck finish, e.g., the flange (or pilfer bead), during the initial application of the closure.

[0437] Moving to Figure 10, a closure 1' is shown according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1 described above, where similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals with an apostrophe. These configurations are therefore not described further. Closure 1' according to this embodiment is essentially the same as closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2, except that it is formed by a continuous membrane 41a' connecting the tamper-evident band 5' to the cylindrical skirt 4'. In this embodiment, the outer surface of the membrane 41a' is recessed relative to the outer surface of the tamper-evident band 5' so that the thickness of the membrane 41a' is reduced. This example simplifies the molded stack 102, reduces the brittleness of closure 1', and thereby simplifies the removal of the molded product, firstly because the configuration defining the bridge 41 can be omitted, and secondly because the resulting molded connection between the tamper-evident band 5' and the cylindrical skirt 4' is stronger.

[0438] The destructible connection between the cylindrical skirt 4' and the tamper-evident band 5' is formed by slitting or cutting the post-formed article of the membrane 41a'. This can be done before installation on the container neck 2, in which case the resulting post-slit closure 1' is substantially identical to the closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2.

[0439] However, it is preferable that the closure 1 is slit-formed after it has been installed on the container neck 2. Furthermore, the tamper-evident band 5' can be slit-formed either before or after being irradiated with the planar laser beam 83 of the closure conditioning system 8 described above. In some advantageous embodiments, the slit-formed band is performed later.

[0440] It is also conceivable that the tamper-evident band 5' of the closure 1' may, in some cases, be provided with a cam or tab (not shown), such as those well known in the art.

[0441] Figure 11 schematically shows a slitting machine 88 for slitting the closure 1' of Figure 10. The slitting machine 88 includes a slitting bar 88a, which has sawtooth 88b for creating perforations in the membrane 41a' of the closure 1'. The slitting machine 88 also includes a conveyor 89 having a plurality of movable carriages 89a. Each carriage 89a has a pair of rollers 89b, which move one of the closures 1' away from the slitting bar 88a.

[0442] The carriage 89a may be configured to support the weight of the container 9 by, for example, surrounding and supporting the lower surface of the support shelf-like portion 21. Alternatively, the slitting machine 88 may be equipped with a linear conveyor similar to the first conveyor 84 of system 8 in Figure 6, on which the container 9 can be supported.

[0443] During use, the carriage 89a moves in the S direction along the conveyor 89, moving the closure 1' away from the slit-forming bar 88a. As a result, the closure 1' rolls along the slit-forming bar 88a, and the sawtooth 88b perforates the membrane 41a', creating a breakable line. Alternatively, although not shown, the slit-forming bar may have elongated teeth defined along the slit-forming bar, with interrupted sections that define non-cutting portions defining the bridge of the closure.

[0444] The slitting machine 88 can be incorporated into the closure conditioning system 8. As described above, slitting can be performed either before or after the tamper-evident band 5 is reshaped, for example, by irradiation with the planar laser beam 83 of the system 8. Therefore, the slitting machine 88 can be located upstream or downstream of the laser 80. In some embodiments, the slitting machine 88 can be incorporated into the closure conditioning system 8 in the same section as the laser 80.

[0445] For example, the carriage 89a can engage the cylindrical skirt 4' of the closure 1' on the same side as the laser 80, thereby allowing the planar laser beam 83 to irradiate the tamper-evident band 5' beneath the carriage 89a while the slit-forming bar 88a simultaneously perforates the film 41a' to create a destructible line.

[0446] Other configurations can also be conceived. In particular, the slitting machine 88 can incorporate a laser or laser cutter instead of the configuration described above. In some embodiments, the laser emitter 80 of system 8 may be operable to emit a laser capable of perforating or slitting the film 41a'.

[0447] It is also conceivable that the tamper-evident band 5' of the closure 1' may be provided with a cam or tab, in some cases, as the additional rigidity provided by the membrane 41a' mitigates some of the problems associated with molded PET closures where the tamper-evident band is connected to the closure by a bridge.

[0448] Figure 12 shows a slit forming bar 88a' similar to the slit forming bar 88a of the slit forming machine 88 in Figure 11, and in this embodiment, it can be used interchangeably. The slit forming bar 88a' according to this embodiment differs from the slit forming bar 88a of the slit forming machine 88 in Figure 11 in that it is provided with a plurality of spikes 88b' directly below the sawtooth 88b. Each spike 88b' aligns with the interrupted portion of the sawtooth 88b, thereby perforating and / or deforming inward a localized area of ​​the tamper-evident band 5' beneath each bridge formed by the sawtooth 88b.

[0449] Such deformation means of the tamper-evident band 5' can be used instead of, or in addition to, deforming the tamper-evident band 5' by applying heat as described above. It is also conceivable that several other mechanical deformation means may be used, such as an annular shelf-like portion, which compresses the open end of the tamper-evident band 5' and curls the open end inward and upward, resulting in a lip 52 or any other suitable mechanical deformation mechanism.

[0450] In other embodiments, the slit-forming bars 88a, 88a' are provided with a heating element instead of, for example, a spike 88b', thereby allowing a portion of the closure 1' or tamper-evident band 5' to be reshaped.

[0451] Figure 13 shows a closure conditioning system 8', a variation of system 8 in Figure 6, where similar reference numerals indicate similar features with an apostrophe. Closure conditioning system 8' differs from closure conditioning system 8 in Figure 6 in that a second conveyor 82' engages with one side of the container neck 2 directly below the flange 20, and the first conveyor 81' is replaced by a stationary section 81' that engages with the opposite side of the container neck 2.

[0452] The second conveyor 82' operates in direction D', which also corresponds to the direction of movement of the container 9. More specifically, in a manner similar to that described above, while illuminated by the laser emitter 80', the container 9 moves along direction D' and rolls along the stationary section 81' as it is rotated by the second conveyor 82'. This approach can be advantageous because the position of the closure 1 is more precise and is not affected by fluctuations in the height of the container 9.

[0453] Now, moving to Figures 14 and 15, we see a closure 201 according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1 described above. Here, similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals, increased by 200, so no further explanation is needed. Closure 201 according to this embodiment differs from closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2 in that it includes a tether 242 connecting the tamper-evident band 205 to the cylindrical skirt 204.

[0454] In this embodiment, the tamper-evident band 205 comprises a first annular portion 253 connected to the rim 240 of the cylindrical skirt 204, and a second annular portion 254 hanging down from the first annular portion 253. The second annular portion 254 has a radial wall thickness smaller than that of the first annular portion 253, thereby providing radial steps 255 on the outer surface of the tamper-evident band 205.

[0455] Since the first portion 253 imparts some rigidity to the tamper-evident band 205, the radial wall thickness of the second annular portion 254 can be less than 0.3 mm, although this is not mandatory. Those skilled in the art will understand that the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2 may also have stepped radial wall thicknesses. This also allows for a reduction in the radial thickness of the lowest annular portion, saving material and reducing the time required for deformation when irradiated by the closure conditioning system 8.

[0456] The tether 242 is defined within the first annular portion 253, so that the radial thickness of the tether 242 corresponds to the thicker radial thickness of the first annular portion 253. The tether 242 has a first end 242a connected to the lower rim of the cylindrical skirt 204, from which the tether 242 hangs down to a 90° elbow 242b, although this angle is not significant. The tether 242 extends circumferentially from the elbow 242b along the tamper-evident band 205 and connects to it at a second end 242c. In this embodiment, the bridge 241 that destructibly connects the tamper-evident band 205 to the cylindrical skirt 204 is interrupted by the tether 242, so that there is no destructible connection between the tether 242 and either the tamper-evident band 205 or the cylindrical skirt 204. However, it is conceivable that the presence of the bridge 241 allows for a tamper-evident connection to be established between the tether 242 and one or both of the tamper-evident band 205 and the cylindrical skirt 204.

[0457] Similar to closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2, a planar laser beam 83 is directed to the lower part of the tamper-evident band 205 of closure 201, in this case, to the second annular portion 254. When the second annular portion 254 is irradiated, the residual hoop stress within it causes the annular portion 254 to contract, creating an internal lip (not shown) similar to the lip 52 shown in Figure 9. The internal lip (not shown) has an inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the flange 20 of the container neck 2 and larger than the outer diameter of the neck 2 below the flange 20, thereby ensuring that closure 201 can rotate to loosen.

[0458] Moving to Figure 16, a closure 301 is shown according to another embodiment, fixed to the container neck 202. The closure 301 according to this embodiment is similar to the first closure 1 described above, and no further explanation is needed here, as similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals increased by 300. The closure 301 according to this embodiment is made of HDPE and differs from the closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2 in that the tamper-evident band 305 is shorter and thinner. For example, the tamper-evident band 305 can be less than 0.3 mm thick.

[0459] The features of the planar laser beam 83' emitted from the conditioning system 8 for engaging the tamper-evident band 305 with the container neck 202 are modified compared to the features described above. In particular, the planar laser beam 83' is configured to weld the HDPE tamper-evident band 305 of the closure 301 to the flange 220 of the PET container neck 202. More specifically, the laser beam 83' is passed through the tamper-evident band 305 by selecting the frequency of the laser beam 83' to result in a wavelength that is more readily absorbed by PET than HDPE, but heat is generated at the contact interface between the tamper-evident band 305 and the flange 220 of the container neck 202.

[0460] When the closure 301 is loosened for removal from the container neck 202, the bridge 341 that destructibly connects the tamper-evident band 305 to the cylindrical skirt 304 is broken, severing the tamper-evident band 305 from the cylindrical skirt 304. The tamper-evident band 305 remains attached to the flange 220 of the container neck 202, thereby providing evidence of the removal of the closure 301.

[0461] Figure 17 shows a closure 401 according to another embodiment, similar to the closure 301 of the preceding prior embodiment, and no further explanation is needed here, as similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals, increased by 100. The closure 401 according to this embodiment differs from the closure 301 in Figure 16 in that it is made of PET.

[0462] To weld the tamper-evident band 405 to the container neck 202, the angle of the planar laser beam 83'' emitted from the conditioning system 8 is modified to be directed towards the contact interface between the PET tamper-evident band 405 of the closure 401 and the flange 220 of the container neck 202, thereby welding the tamper-evident band 405 to the flange 220.

[0463] Figure 18 shows a closure 501 according to another embodiment, similar to the closure 401 of the preceding prior embodiment, and no further explanation is needed here, as similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals, increased by 100. The closure 501 according to this embodiment differs from the closure 401 of Figure 17 in that the tamper-evident band 405 is omitted.

[0464] Instead, the planar laser beam 83'' emitted from the conditioning system 8 is directed to the contact interface between the lower rim 540 of the cylindrical skirt 504 and the flange 320 of the container neck 302. In this embodiment, the rim 540 of the cylindrical skirt 504 protrudes beyond the flange 320 of the container neck 302 and is angled so that the planar laser beam 83'' more accurately strikes the contact interface between them.

[0465] The resulting weld between the cylindrical skirt 504 and the flange 320 creates a destructible connection between the flange 320 and the closure 501. When the closure 501 is loosened for removal from the vessel neck 302, the weld leaves a small portion 505 of the cylindrical skirt 504 attached to the flange 320. The presence of this small portion 505 of the cylindrical skirt 504 attached to the flange 320 provides evidence of the removal of the closure 501.

[0466] It is also conceivable that, before or preferably after welding the lower rim 540 to the flange 320, a slit may be formed in the lower part of the cylindrical skirt 504 of the closure 501, for example, using a slitting machine 88, to provide an anti-tampering band. However, this is not a mandatory feature.

[0467] Figure 19 shows a closure 601 according to another embodiment, similar to the closure 501 of the preceding embodiment, and no further explanation is needed here as similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals, increased by 100. The closure 601 according to this embodiment differs from the closure 501 of Figure 18 in that the diameter of the flange 420 of the container neck 402 is substantially the same as the diameter of the lower rim 640 of the closure 601.

[0468] This configuration facilitates the use of a planar laser beam 83' emitted from the conditioning system 8, perpendicular to the axes of the closure 601 and the vessel neck 420, similar to that used in the closure 301 in Figure 16. The planar laser beam 83' is directed to the contact interface between the lower rim 640 of the cylindrical skirt 604 and the flange 420 of the vessel neck 402.

[0469] Similar to the closure 501 in Figure 18, the resulting weld between the cylindrical skirt 604 and the flange 420 creates a destructible connection between the flange 420 and the closure 601. When the closure 601 is loosened for removal from the vessel neck 402, the weld leaves a small portion 605 of the cylindrical skirt 604 attached to the flange 420. The presence of this small portion 605 of the cylindrical skirt 604 attached to the flange 420 provides evidence of the removal of the closure 601.

[0470] Here again, it has been conceivable that, before or preferably after welding the lower rim 640 to the flange 420, a slit can be formed in the lower part of the cylindrical skirt 604 of the closure 601 using a slit forming machine 88 as shown in Figure 11, and an anti-tampering band can be provided.

[0471] Referring to Figure 20, an alternative closure conditioning system 208, similar to system 8 in Figure 6, is schematically shown. Here, similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increased by 200, and therefore no further explanation is needed. System 208 according to this embodiment differs from the previous system 8 in that the second conveyor 82 is omitted and four sources of electromagnetic radiation, in the form of laser emitters 280, are provided. For simplicity, although a container 9 fitted to closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2 is shown, it will be understood that system 208 can be used with any of the above-mentioned closures 1, 201, 301, 401, 501, and 601.

[0472] All laser emitters 280 are directed through the system 208 to one of the closures 1 in one of the containers 9, which are transported by the first conveyor 281 in a single file, and are uniformly distributed around it. This irradiates substantially simultaneously the entire perimeter of the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1 without the need to rotate the container 9, as in system 8 of Figure 6. A person skilled in the art will understand that there are several variations in the heat applied across each of the four quadrants of the tamper-evident band 5, and therefore the lip 52 may be interrupted or its radial depth may vary.

[0473] However, the four regions of the tamper-evident band 5, directly aligned with the laser emitter 280, provide four lip segments 52 that are effective in holding the tamper-evident band 5 at the container neck 2. Similarly, the closures 301, 401, 501, and 601, welded to the flanges 220, 320, and 420, are welded in four regions, and as those skilled in the art will understand, this is also effective in implementing the aforementioned tamper-evident function.

[0474] Referring to Figure 21, an alternative closure conditioning system 308, similar to system 208 described above, is schematically shown. Here, similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals increased by 100, and therefore no further explanation is needed. System 308 according to this embodiment differs from the previous system 208 in that it has two laser emitters 380 instead of four, located on one side of closure 1.

[0475] Therefore, the heat will be applied across each of the two sides of the tamper-evident band 5 and will vary in accordance with the quadrant, as described above. Thus, the lip 52 will be interrupted and its radial depth will change. However, the two regions of the tamper-evident band 5, directly aligned with the laser emitter 280, provide opposing lip segments 52, which are effective in holding the tamper-evident band 5 at the container neck 2. Similarly, the closures 301, 401, 501, and 601, welded to the flanges 220, 320, and 420, are welded in two regions, and as those skilled in the art will understand, this is also effective in implementing the tamper-evident function described above.

[0476] Moving on to Figures 22 and 23, a closure 701 is shown according to another embodiment, similar to the closure 301 in Figure 16. Here, similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals, increased by 400, so no further explanation is needed. The closure 701 according to this embodiment is also made of HDPE, but differs from the closure 301 in Figure 16 in that it features a tamper-evident panel 705 instead of a tamper-evident band 305.

[0477] In this embodiment, the tamper-evident panel 705 has a bottom edge 751 that defines a portion of the rim 740 and is brokenly connected to the periphery of the cylindrical skirt 704 by a plurality of bridges 741 at three locations on its side. The tamper-evident panel 705 has a radial wall thickness that is smaller than the radial wall thickness of the periphery of the cylindrical skirt 704. For example, the radial wall thickness of the tamper-evident panel can be less than 0.3 mm, although this is not required, and the radial wall thickness of the cylindrical skirt can be 0.5 mm or more, although this is not required.

[0478] In order to engage the tamper-evident panel 705 with the container neck 502, the planar laser beam 83' emitted from the conditioning system 8 must be modified to provide a focused laser beam 83'' such that it does not illuminate the peripheral portion of the cylindrical skirt 704. The focused laser beam 83'' is configured to weld the tamper-evident panel 705 to the container neck 502.

[0479] When the closure 701 is loosened for removal from the container neck 502, the bridge 741 that destructibly connects the tamper-evident panel 705 to the cylindrical skirt 304 is broken, severing the tamper-evident panel 705 from the cylindrical skirt 704. The tamper-evident panel 705 remains attached to the flange (not shown) of the container neck 502, thereby providing evidence of the removal of the closure 701.

[0480] Figure 24 shows a closure 801 according to another embodiment, similar to the closure 701 in Figures 22 and 23. Here, similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals, increased by 100, and therefore no further explanation is needed. The closure 801 according to this embodiment is also made of HDPE, but differs from the closure 701 in Figures 22 and 23 in that the tamper-evident panel 805 is directly connected to the periphery of the cylindrical skirt 804.

[0481] Since the panel 805 itself is cut when the closure 801 is removed from the container neck 502, the radial wall thickness of the tamper-evident panel 805 in this embodiment is preferably even smaller than that in previous embodiments. For example, the radial wall thickness of the tamper-evident panel may be less than 0.2 mm, although this is not required, and the radial wall thickness of the cylindrical skirt may be 0.5 mm or more, although this is not required. As in previous embodiments, the focused laser beam 83'' is configured to weld the tamper-evident panel 805 to the container neck 502.

[0482] Figures 25 and 26 show a closure 901 according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2, where similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increased by 900, and therefore no further explanation is needed. Closure 901 according to this embodiment differs from closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2 in that it comprises a series of tabs 952 contained within, represented, or defined in a tamper-evident band 905 and spaced apart around its periphery. Each tab 952 is connected to the tamper-evident band 905 by a hinge 956. The other three sides defining the tab 952 are not connected to the tamper-evident band 905, thereby allowing the tab 952 to pivot around the hinge 956. The inner surface of each tab 952 is close to the inner surface surrounding the tamper-evident band 905, and together they provide a smooth, substantially cylindrical inner surface 950 lacking any engaging functional parts.

[0483] The thickness of the tab 952 is substantially less than the thickness of the tamper-evident band, and in this embodiment, it is approximately half. As a result, when heat is applied to the tamper-evident band 905, the tab 952 is susceptible to inward deformation in front of the peripheral portion of the tamper-evident band 905. This allows the closure conditioning systems 8, 8' in Figures 6 and 13 to be used with the closure 901. However, it is also possible to use the closure conditioning systems 208, 308 in Figures 20 and 21 with laser emitters 280, 380 directed towards the tab 952.

[0484] By irradiating the tabs 952, these hinges 956 are pivoted inward at their center in order to engage the tabs 952 with the flange 220 in a manner similar to the inner lip 52 of the closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2. In this way, the series of tabs 952 create a discontinuous lip that provides a function similar to the inner lip 52 of the closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2. By providing the tabs 952, the irradiation time required to engage the closure 901 with the container neck 2 can also be reduced. Of course, any combination of structures suitable for producing a predetermined deformation can be conceived, for example, the tamper-evident band 905 can be made stepped so that it has a thinner portion that deforms together with the tabs 952.

[0485] Figures 28 and 29 show the rollers 480 of the closure conditioning system 408 in operation, according to another embodiment, and when reshaping the closure 1 of Figures 1 and 2 at the neck 2 of the container 9. Each roller 480 has an annular flange 483 that contacts the tamper-evident band 5, deforming it inward, thereby rotatably engaging the flange 20 of the container neck.

[0486] In some embodiments, the roller 480 is heated, thereby deforming the lower part of the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1 in a manner similar to that described above. However, in other embodiments, the roller 480 can be used to mechanically deform the lower part of the tamper-evident band 5, and the portion can be preheated to provide the lip 52 described above.

[0487] Figures 30 and 31 show the wire 580 of the closure conditioning system 508 in operation, according to another embodiment, and when reshaping the closure 1 of Figures 1 and 2 at the neck 2 of the container 9. In this embodiment, the wire 580 comes into contact with the tamper-evident band 5 as the closure 1 and container 9 roll along the wire 580.

[0488] Similar to the roller 480, the wire 580 can be heated to deform the lower part of the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1 in the same manner as described above. Alternatively, the lower part of the tamper-evident band 5 can be simply mechanically deformed without heating to provide the lip 52 described above.

[0489] Figures 32 and 33 show the infrared emitter 680 of the closure conditioning system 608 in operation, according to another embodiment, and when reshaping the closure 1 of Figures 1 and 2 at the neck 2 of the container 9. The infrared emitter 680 emits a planar infrared beam 683, which irradiates the lower part of the tamper-evident band 5 in a similar manner to the laser beam 83 described above.

[0490] Although not shown, the closure conditioning system 608 also includes a transport mechanism similar to those shown in Figures 6 and 13, which causes the closure 1 and container 9 to rotate when the tamper-evident band 5 is illuminated by the infrared beam 683.

[0491] Figures 34 and 35 show the microwave emitter 780 of the closure conditioning system 708 in operation, according to yet another embodiment, and when reshaping the closure 1 of Figures 1 and 2 at the neck 2 of the container 9. The microwave emitter 780 emits a planar microwave beam 783 that irradiates the lower part of the tamper-evident band 5 in the same manner as the laser beam 83 and infrared beam 683 described above. The closure conditioning system 708 also includes a transport mechanism that causes the closure 1 and the container 9 to rotate when the tamper-evident band 5 is irradiated by the microwave beam 783.

[0492] Figures 36 and 37 show the air knife 880 of the closure conditioning system 808 in operation, according to yet another embodiment, and when reshaping the closure 1 of Figures 1 and 2 at the neck 2 of the container 9. The air knife 880 releases a flat jet of air 883, which strikes the bottom of the tamper-evident band 5. Similar to the closure conditioning systems 608 and 708 in Figures 32-36, the closure conditioning system 808 according to this embodiment also includes a transport mechanism that causes the closure 1 and container 9 to rotate when the tamper-evident band 5 is irradiated by the microwave beam 783.

[0493] Preferably, the flat jet of air 883 is heated before it exits the air knife 880, thereby deforming the lower part of the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1 in a manner similar to that described above. However, the air can be at room temperature, and the air jet 883 is provided at a speed that mechanically deforms the lower part of the tamper-evident band 5, and it is also conceivable that the lip 52 described above is provided.

[0494] Figure 38 shows an ultrasonic device 980 of a closure conditioning system 908 according to yet another embodiment, shown at the neck 2 of the container 9, immediately before the closure 1 of Figures 1 and 2 is reshaped. The ultrasonic device 980 comprises a pair of opposing ultrasonic emitters 983 that come into contact with the tamper-evident band 5 and emit ultrasonic waves to heat the tamper-evident band 5 so that it deforms inward and engages with the neck 2.

[0495] Figures 39 and 40 show a closure 1001 according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2, and no further explanation is needed here as similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals, increased by 1000. This closure 1001 differs from closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2 in that the tamper-evident band 1005 includes an outwardly projecting engagement flange 1055.

[0496] The closure 1001 is configured to be installed on the neck 1002 of the container 1009 according to another embodiment. The container 1009 has a flange 1020 with an upright (alternatively radially extending) annular wall 1023 around its periphery, the periphery surrounding the engaging flange 1055 of the tamper-evident band 1005. With the closure 1001 installed on the neck 1002, the annular wall 1023 can be deformed inward using the wire 580 of the closure conditioning system 508 in Figures 30 and 31, in a similar manner to how the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1 is deformed.

[0497] The inward deformation of the annular wall 1023 causes the annular wall 1023 to engage with the engaging flange 1055 of the tamper-evident band 1005 (while allowing relative rotation between them). As a result, the tamper-evident band 1005 remains attached to the container neck 1002 when the closure 1001 is first removed from the container neck 1002.

[0498] Figures 41 and 42 show the closure 1 of Figures 1 and 2 on the neck portion 1102 of the container 1109 according to yet another embodiment. The engagement flange 1120 of the container neck portion 1102 according to this embodiment has four notches 1124 spaced apart around its periphery. With the closure 1 installed on the neck portion 1102, the wire 580 heats the tamper-evident band 5, causing the tamper-evident band 5 to contract onto the engagement flange 1120. As a result, the area of ​​the tamper-evident band that contracts across the notches 1124 deforms within it. This prevents relative rotation between the tamper-evident band 5 and the container neck portion 1102, thereby causing shearing of the bridge 41 when the closure 1 is first removed from the container neck portion 1102.

[0499] Figure 43 shows a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 42, showing the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1 of Figures 1 and 2 at the neck 1202 of the container 1209, according to yet another embodiment. In this embodiment, the engagement flange 1220 of the container neck 1202 is elliptical, resulting in a pair of diagonally opposed lobes 1224. With the closure 1 installed on the neck 1202, the wire 580 (or other reshaping means) heats the tamper-evident band 5, causing it to contract onto the engagement flange 1220. As a result, the area of ​​the tamper-evident band that contracts across the elliptical engagement flange 1220 deforms within it. This prevents relative rotation between the tamper-evident band 5 and the container neck 1202, thereby causing shearing of the bridge 41 when the closure 1 is first removed from the container neck 1202.

[0500] Figures 44 and 45 show the closure 1 of Figures 1 and 2 in the container neck 1302 according to yet another embodiment. In this embodiment, the container neck 1302 has a periphery engagement groove 1320 extending from the support shelf 1321 to the neck 1302, instead of an external radial flange 20. As a result, deformation of the tamper-evident band 5 using one of the closure conditioning systems 8, 8', 208, 308, 408, 508, 608, 708, 808, 908 described above causes the tamper-evident band 5 to deform toward the periphery engagement groove 1320 of the neck 1302. This results in a rotatable engagement between the tamper-evident band 5 and the container neck 1302, similar to that provided with the engagement flange 20.

[0501] Figures 46 and 47 show a closure 1401 according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2, where similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increasing by 1400, and therefore no further explanation is needed. This closure 1401 differs from closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2 in that the bridge 1441 is even longer. The bridge 1441 in this embodiment also aligns with the engagement flange 20 when the closure 1401 is in the container neck 2. As shown in Figure 47, the tamper-evident band 1405 is also even shorter and, throughout its entire height, is heated by one of the mechanisms described above and is configured to contract around the engagement flange 20 to bridge the bridge 1441. This makes it possible to make the closure 1401 even lighter than closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2.

[0502] Figures 48 and 49 show the closure 1001 of Figures 39 and 40, in a container neck 1502 and a connecting ring 1523 for engaging the tamper-evident band 1005 of the closure 1001 with the flange 1520 of the container neck 1502, according to another embodiment. With the container neck 1502 in place of the closure 1001, the connecting ring 1523 is positioned around the tamper-evident band 1005 and the flange 1520, and as heat is applied to the connecting ring 1523, the connecting ring 1523 contracts around the engaging flange 1055 of the tamper-evident band 1005 and the flange 1520 of the container neck 1502. This creates a rotatable engagement between the tamper-evident band 1005 of the closure 1011 and the flange 1520 of the container neck 1502.

[0503] Of course, it is also conceivable that the connecting ring 1523 can be replaced with a sleeve or oversleeve that may be thinner and / or longer than the connecting ring 1523. The sleeve or oversleeve can engage the tamper-evident band 1005 in a similar manner to the connecting ring 1523. Alternatively, the sleeve or oversleeve may have its own tamper-evident features. For example, the sleeve or oversleeve may have a first portion configured to stay on the closure 1001 when removed from the container neck, a second portion configured to stay on the container neck 1502 when the closure is removed from the container neck, and a breakable connection connecting the first and second portions, configured to break when the closure 1001 is first removed.

[0504] Figures 50 and 51 show the closure 1 of Figures 1 and 2 in a container neck 1602 according to yet another embodiment. The container neck 1602 according to this embodiment includes a fixing function part 1606 in the form of an annular projection 1660 for snap-fit ​​connection with the closure 1. With the closure 1 installed in the neck 1602, the pair of wires 580 of the closure conditioning system 508 of Figures 30 and 31 can be used to simultaneously deform both the tamper-evident band 5 and a portion of the cylindrical skirt 4 of the closure 1 directly below the snap-fit ​​projection 1660. As a result, the tamper-evident band 5 contracts into the space between the support shelf-like parts 1621, and the annular portion of the cylindrical skirt 4 below the engaging flange 1620 and the snap-fit ​​projection 1660 deforms inward to form radial snap-fit ​​projections 43. The resulting radial projections 43 on the cylindrical skirt 4 releasably engage with the snap-fit ​​projections 1660 of the container neck 1602, allowing them to be opened and closed again.

[0505] Figures 52 and 53 show a closure 1701 according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2, and no further explanation is needed here as similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increasing by 1700. This closure 1701 differs from closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2 in that the tamper-evident band 1705 is provided with an engaging cam 1757 on its inner surface.

[0506] The tamper-evident band 1705 has a diameter large enough for the cam 1757 to freely pass over the engaging flange 20 of the container neck 2. With the closure 1701 installed on the neck 2, the tamper-evident band 5 is heated and contracted into the space between the support shelf-like portions 1621. As a result, the cam 1757 aligns with the engaging flange 20 of the container neck 2, thereby engaging with the closure 1701 upon its initial removal from the container neck 2, and thereby separating the tamper-evident band 5 from the cylindrical skirt 1704 of the closure 1701.

[0507] Figure 54 shows a closure 1801 according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2. Here, similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increased by 1800, so no further explanation is needed. This closure 1801 differs from closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2 in that the tamper-proof band 1805 is segmented, with each of the three parts connected to the cylindrical skirt 1804 by an indestructible connection 1858 in addition to a destructible bridge 1841. The tamper-proof band 1805 spans its height and includes a destructible line 1859, which divides the band 1805 into three parts.

[0508] With the closure 1801 installed on the neck portion 2, the tamper-evident band 1805 is deformed in the same manner as the closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2. However, when the closure 1801 is first removed from the container neck portion 2, the bridge 1841 ruptures, and the destructible wire 1859 divides the tamper-evident band 1805 into three parts, breaking and opening the tamper-evident band 1805 from the cylindrical skirt 1804 of the closure 1801, releasing it into the container neck portion 2. As a result, the segmented tamper-evident band 1805 remains connected to the cylindrical skirt 1804 of the closure 1801 by the indestructible connection 1858.

[0509] Figure 55 shows a closure 1901 according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2. Here, similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals increased by 1900, so no further explanation is needed. This closure 1901 differs from closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2 in that the tamper-evident band 1905 includes multiple axial ribs 1959.

[0510] With the closure 1901 installed on the neck portion 2, the tamper-evident band 1905 is deformed in the same manner as the closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2. However, it is thought that the axial ribs 1959 generate internal stresses when the closure 1901 cools during the molding process. While we do not wish to be bound by any particular theory, it is thought that these internal stresses lead to further deformation when the tamper-evident band 1905 is reheated, imparting greater rigidity to the undercuts generated by the deformed tamper-evident band 1905.

[0511] Figure 56 shows a lid mounting device 1008 incorporating a heating ring 1080 that surrounds the lower part of each lid mounting chuck 1088. During use, when the closure 1 is installed on the neck 2 of the container 9, the heating ring 1080 applies heat to the tamper-evident band 5, causing it to contract around the container neck 2. As a result, the lid mounting device 1008 incorporates an integrated closure conditioning system.

[0512] Similarly, Figure 57 shows a lid mounting device 1108 incorporating a laser 1180, aligned with the lower end of the lid mounting chuck 1188. For simplification, only one laser 1180 is shown in Figure 57. During use, as the closure 1 rotates and tightens onto the neck 2 of the container 9, the laser 1180 illuminates the tamper-evident band 5 as it rotates, causing it to contract around the container neck 2. Consequently, the lid mounting device 1108 also incorporates an integrated closure conditioning system.

[0513] In both lid mounting devices 1008 and 1108, it will be understood that the timing or sequence of applying heat to the tamper-evident band 5 is configured such that the closure 1 contracts the tamper-evident band 5 only after it has reached the lid mounting position on the container neck 2.

[0514] Figures 58 and 59 show a closure 2001 according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2, and no further explanation is needed here as similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increased by 2000. This closure 2001 differs from closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2 in that the tamper-evident band 2005 has a peripheral recess 2057 on the inner surface formed by the annular bead 2010 around the outer molded core 120'.

[0515] As the closure 2001 is injected from the outer molded core 120', it stretches outward as it moves across the annular bead 2010, as shown in Figure 59. Consequently, internal stresses are generated during part removal. While we do not wish to be bound by any particular theory, it is thought that these internal stresses lead to further deformation when the tamper-evident band 2005 is reheated, imparting greater rigidity to the undercuts generated by the deformed tamper-evident band 2005.

[0516] Figures 60 and 61 show a closure 2101 according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2, and will not be described further here as similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increasing by 2100. This closure 2101 differs from closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2 in that the tamper-evident band 2105 is molded with an inward inclination, as shown in Figure 60. This inclination is formed by the conical portion 2110 of the outer molded core 120''.

[0517] As the closure 2101 is injected from the outer molded core 120'', as shown in Figure 61, the closure 2101 stretches outward as it is stretched across the straight cylindrical surface forming the cylindrical skirt 2104 of the closure 2101. Consequently, internal stresses are generated during the removal of the molded part. These internal stresses are thought to cause further deformation when the tamper-evident band 2105 is reheated, providing greater rigidity to the undercuts generated by the deformed tamper-evident band 2105.

[0518] Figure 62 shows a closure 2201 according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2, where similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increasing by 2200, and therefore no further explanation is needed. This closure 2201 differs from closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2 in that the diameter of the tamper-evident band 2205 is greater than the diameter of the cylindrical skirt 2204, and the tamper-evident band 2205 is connected to the cylindrical skirt 2204 by a series of bridges 2241 that extend radially between the cylindrical skirt 2204 and the tamper-evident band 2205. It is also conceivable that the bridges 2241 can be extended axially so as to be angled radially.

[0519] The bridge 2241 can be defined by the core and cavity assemblies 104 and 106, so this arrangement eliminates the need for the split insert 124 in the molding stack 102. The container neck (not shown) has both a diameter and axial length similar to the inner diameter of the tamper-evident band 2205, but also includes a smaller, flange-like engaging portion. With the closure 2201 installed in the neck (not shown), the tamper-evident band 2205 is deformed in the same manner as closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2.

[0520] Figure 63 shows a closure 2301 according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1' in Figure 10, and no further explanation is needed here, as similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increasing by 2300. This closure 2301 differs from closure 1' in Figure 10 in that the outer surface of the continuous membrane 2341a is recessed inward relative to the tamper-evident band 2305, and it includes a series of axial ribs 2341b that protrude from the inner surface of the membrane 2341a and span the width of the membrane 2341a. The membrane 2341a has an outer surface that is aligned with the outer surface of the tamper-evident band 2305 and an inner surface that is recessed relative to the inner surface of the tamper-evident band 2305. In this embodiment, the inner surface of the axial ribs 2341b is continuous with the inner surface of the tamper-evident band 2305 such that the thickness of the axial ribs 2341b is substantially the same as the thickness of the tamper-evident band 2305.

[0521] As a result, the molded core (not shown) for forming the closure 2301 has a series of protrusions around its periphery, which form recesses between the axial ribs 2341b. Those skilled in the art will understand that, during use, when force is applied, the tamper-evident band 2305 stretches across these protrusions when the closure 2301 is removed from the molded core.

[0522] Advantageously, the slitting machine 88 in Figure 11 can be configured to slit the membrane 2341a of the closure 2301, centered around its entire periphery, but to a depth sufficient to cut through the membrane 2341a, leaving the axial ribs 2341b intact so as to provide a destructible bridge connecting the tamper-evident band 2305 to the cylindrical skirt 2304. The serrations 88b do not need to be serrated, and instead may be continuous to provide a clear cut in the membrane 2341a between the axial ribs 2341b. These axial ribs 2341b can improve the molding process by providing a channel for the molten plastic to fill the tamper-evident band 2305 while allowing the thickness of the membrane 2341a to be minimized. With the closure 2301 installed on the neck 2, the tamper-evident band 2305 is deformed in a similar manner to the closure 1' in Figure 10.

[0523] It should be understood that, together with the inner surface of the axial rib 2341b, a circle is defined having a diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the film 2341a and equal to the inner diameter of the tamper-evident band 2305. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the axial rib 2341b is recessed relative to the inner surface of the tamper-evident band 2305 such that their thickness is less than the thickness of the tamper-evident band 2305. For example, the axial rib 2341b may protrude 1 mm from the inner surface of the film 2341a. However, these embodiments are not intended to limit the scope in any way, and other configurations may also be conceived.

[0524] It is also conceivable that the membrane 2341a may be provided with a single wide axial rib 2341b having a thickness equal to that of the tamper-evident band 2305. In such embodiments, the membrane 2341a can be slit in the same manner as closure 1' in Figure 10 to provide multiple bridges having a thickness equal to that of the membrane 2341a. Consequently, the axial rib 2341b can function as a tether for holding the closure 2301 of the container neck 2.

[0525] It is also conceivable that the tamper-evident band 2305 of the closure 2301 may, in some cases, be provided with a cam or tab (not shown), such as those well known in the art.

[0526] Figure 64 shows a closure 2401 according to another embodiment, similar to the closure 2301 in Figure 63, and no further explanation is needed here, as similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals, increased by 100. This closure 2401 differs from the closure 2301 in Figure 63 in that the thickness of the continuous film 2441a is substantially the same as the thickness of the tamper-evident band 2405, and the axial ribs 2441b protrude beyond the inner surface of the tamper-evident band 2405.

[0527] Those skilled in the art will understand that the molded core (not shown) for forming the closure 2401 therefore has a series of axial recesses instead of protrusions, thereby eliminating the need to stretch the tamper-evident band 2405 when removing the closure 2301 from the molded core.

[0528] Figure 65 schematically shows another closure conditioning system 1208 incorporated into either a labeling device or a lid-attaching device. The system 1208 comprises a carousel 1281 with a polygonal mirror 1282 at its center, and a laser 1280 directed from a fixed position outside the carousel 1281 toward the polygonal mirror 1282. A container 9 is at a corresponding station, equally spaced from the carousel 1281, where the container 9 passes through the labeling or lid-attaching process. As the container 9 passes a position adjacent to the laser 1280, the beam 1283 is reflected from the polygonal mirror 1282 toward the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1, which is installed on the neck 2 of the container 9, thereby causing the tamper-evident band 5 to contract around the container neck and engage with the container neck 2.

[0529] It is also conceivable that the tamper-evident band 2405 of the closure 2401 may, in some cases, be provided with a cam or tab (not shown), such as those well known in the art.

[0530] Figure 66 shows a closure conditioning system 1308, a variation of system 8 in Figure 6, where similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals, increased by 1300. Closure conditioning system 1308 differs from the closure conditioning system in Figure 6 in that the planar laser source 80 is replaced by a laser assembly 1380. The laser assembly 1380 comprises a light source 1380a, a beam shaping optical instrument 1380b, in this case a focusing lens or telescope, a rotating polygonal mirror 1380c, and a series of elliptical concave mirrors 1380d in this embodiment. The polygonal mirror 1380c is shown with 12 sides, but may have 13 or more sides, or 11 or fewer sides.

[0531] The light source 1380a emits a laser beam 1383 through a beam shaping optical device 1380b, which narrows the vertical height (parallel to the axis of the container 9) of the laser beam 1383, resulting in a focused height laser beam 1383a. The focused height laser beam 1383a is then reflected by a rotating polygonal mirror 1380c, which rotates at a speed configured to provide a substantially continuous planar laser beam 1383b directed towards the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1 on the container 9 moving along the conveyor 1381.

[0532] This irradiates the tamper-evident band 5 in a similar manner to the planar laser 83 in system 8 of Figure 6. However, the conditioning system 1308 includes, on the opposite side of the polygonal mirror 1380c, a plurality of concave mirrors 1380d, each fixed to the conveyor 1381 and adjacent to one of the corresponding closures 1. As a result, a portion of the substantially continuous planar laser beam 1383b passing between adjacent closures 1 on the conveyor 1381 is reflected by the concave mirrors 1380d and directed back towards the tamper-evident band 5. This irradiates both sides of the tamper-evident band 5 simultaneously, thereby improving the efficiency of the conditioning system 1308.

[0533] Those skilled in the art will understand that such a concave mirror 1380d can be incorporated into the conditioning systems 8, 8' shown in Figures 6 and 9 to produce similar improvements.

[0534] Figure 67 shows a closure conditioning system 1408', a variation of system 8' in Figure 13, where similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals, increasing by 1400. Closure conditioning system 1408' differs from the closure conditioning system in Figure 13 in that both conveyors 1481' and 1482' engage the container neck 2 instead of the body of the container 9, and the planar laser source 80' is replaced by a laser assembly 1480'. In this embodiment, the laser assembly 1480' comprises a light source 1480a', a pair of deflection mirrors 1480b', a beam shaping optical instrument 1480c', in this case a focusing lens or telescope, and a rotating polygonal mirror 1480d'. A polygonal mirror 1480d' with 12 sides is shown, but it may have 13 or more sides, or 11 or fewer sides.

[0535] The light source 1480a' emits a laser beam 1483', which is reflected 180° by a deflection mirror 1480b' before passing through a beam shaping optical device 1480c', which narrows the vertical height (parallel to the axis of the container 9) of the laser beam 1483', resulting in a focused height laser beam 1483a'. The focused height laser beam 1483a' is then reflected by a rotating polygonal mirror 1480d', which rotates at a speed configured to separate the focused height laser beam 1483a' into a specific laser beam 1483b', each directed towards one of the tamper-evident bands 5 of the closure 1 on the container 9, as it moves along the conveyors 1481' and 1482'.

[0536] This involves irradiating the tamper-evident band 5 in a similar manner to the laser 1283 in system 1208 in Figure 65.

[0537] Figures 68 and 69 show a closure 2501 according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1 in Figure 1, and no further explanation is needed here, as similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals, 2500 higher. This closure 2501 differs from closure 1 in Figure 10 in that it lacks a fixing function 6 in the form of threads 60 protruding from the inner surface of the cylindrical skirt 4. Instead, the inner surface 2509 of the skirt 2504 is substantially cylindrical and lacks any molded fixing function.

[0538] Consequently, the molded core (not shown) for forming the closure 2501 has a cylindrical outer surface that does not have any features in the region for molding the inner surface of the shell. Those skilled in the art will understand that such a core, which does not have any enclosed features, facilitates core manufacturing and injection molding.

[0539] As shown in Figures 70 and 71, a source of thermal energy, such as a laser beam 83 having component beams 83A and 83B, is directed to a selected area of ​​the skirt 2504 of the closure 2501 and to the lower part of the tamper-evident band 2505 adjacent to the opening end 2551. The source of thermal energy is configured to irradiate the selected area of ​​the skirt 2504 and the tamper-evident band 2505. This causes the heated area to contract locally, thereby creating an undercut on the inner surface 2509 of the skirt, having an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the fixing function portion 2506 and the inner lip 2552, or the flange 20 of the container neck portion 2.

[0540] Advantageously, the fixing function portion 2506 formed on the skirt 2505 forms threads 2560 that conform to the contour of the threads 22 of the container neck portion 2. That is, the threads 22 of the container neck portion 2 provide a forming surface for forming the threads 2560 on the inner surface of the closure.

[0541] Furthermore, referring to Figure 72, the length of the heating tunnel (not shown) can be adapted to the need to further incorporate a pair of rollers 2580 to press the skirt 2504 and tamper-evident band 2505 onto the container neck 2 in order to assist in reshaping. Those skilled in the art will understand that other sources of thermal energy can also be conceived.

[0542] The heated region may also be crystallizable. This can provide both a visual indicator of deformation and a more rigid fixing function section 2506 and inner lip 2552. In some cases, the entire closure 2501 can be heated and crystallized. This can also have the further advantages of improved barrier properties and reduced gas permeability.

[0543] Figures 73 and 74 show a closure 2601 according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1 in Figure 1, and here, similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increasing by 2600, so no further explanation is needed. This closure 2601 differs from closure 1 in Figure 1 in that the tamper-evident band 2605 spans its height and includes an indestructible connection 2658 and a destructible wire 2659 adjacent to the indestructible connection 2658.

[0544] With the closure 2601 installed on the neck 2, the tamper-evident band 2605 is deformed in the same manner as the closure 1 in Figures 1 and 2. However, when the closure 2601 is first removed from the container neck 2, the bridge 2641 and the destructible wire 2659 break the tamper-evident band 2605 and release it from the container neck 2. As a result, as shown in Figure 74, the tamper-evident band 2605 is transformed into a strip attached to the cylindrical skirt 2604 by the indestructible connection 2658. Therefore, the broken tamper-evident band 1805 remains connected to the closure 2601 when removed from the container neck 2.

[0545] Figure 75 shows a closure 2701 according to another embodiment, similar to closure 1' in Figure 10, and here, no further explanation is needed as similar features are indicated without the apostrophe and with similar reference numerals increased by 2700. This closure 2701 differs from closure 1' in Figure 10 in that it includes a plurality of triangular flaps 2757 that protrude inward from the tamper-evident band 2705.

[0546] Similar to closure 1' in Figure 20, the destructible connection between the cylindrical skirt 2704 and the tamper-evident band 2705 is formed by slitting or cutting the post-molded article of the membrane 2741a. This can be done before or after installation on the container neck 2.

[0547] However, unlike closure 1', the engagement with the flange 20 of the container neck 2 is achieved by the flap 2757, so it is not necessary for the tamper-evident band 2705 to be illuminated. More specifically, the flap 2757 is configured to pivot or fold along the connection line 2757a to the tamper-evident band 2705 when closure 2705 is screwed to the container neck 2, and to unfold when closure 2701 rotates in the opposite, loosening direction. When unfolded, the flap 2757 engages with the flange 20 of the container neck 2, securing the tamper-evident band 2705 over it and severing the tamper-evident connection.

[0548] In some embodiments, the container neck 2 has a ratchet or engaging mechanism that cooperates with the flap 2757 to prevent the tamper-evident band 2705 from rotating when the closure rotates in the loosening direction. The engaging mechanism may be serrated.

[0549] Figures 76 and 77 show a combination of closure 2801 and connecting ring 2823 according to another embodiment, which is similar to the combination of closure 1001 and connecting ring 1523 in Figures 48 and 49, and these will not be described further here as similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increased by 1800 and 1300, respectively. This closure 2801 differs from closure 1001 in Figures 48 and 49 in that the tamper-evident band 2805 is equipped with multiple hooks 2857.

[0550] The closure 2801 may be molded with an outwardly opening hook 2857, as shown in Figure 76, which can facilitate the removal of the molded product and its installation into the container neck 2, thereby reducing the stress on the bridge 2841. This can be particularly useful when the closure 2801 is formed from polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0551] With the closure 2801 in place on the container neck 2, the connecting ring 2823 is positioned around the tamper-evident band 2805 and its hook 2857. When heat is applied to the connecting ring 2823, it contracts around the hook 2857 of the tamper-evident band 2805, engaging the hook with the flange 20 of the container neck 2. This creates a configuration similar to that of a conventional tamper-evident band, in which the hook 2857 engages the flange 20 so that when the closure 2801 is later removed from the container neck 2, the bridge 2841 is cut and the tamper-evident band 2805 is separated from the rest of the closure 2801.

[0552] Moving on to Figures 78 and 79, we see a closure 2901 according to another embodiment, similar to the combination of closure 2801 and connecting ring 2823 in Figures 76 and 77, where similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals, each increased by 100, and therefore will not be described further. This closure 2901 differs from the closure 2801 in Figures 78 and 79 in that it has an integrated connecting ring 2923 rather than a separate connecting ring 2823. The connecting ring 2923 is connected to a tamper-evident band 2905 by a membrane 2923a, and the tamper-evident band 2905 has a raised outer surface 2805a shaped to cooperate with the cam surface 2923a of the connecting ring 2923.

[0553] When the closure 2901 is installed on the container neck 2, the connecting ring 2923 contacts the support shelf 21, and as the closure 2901 moves continuously downward, the cam surface 2923a of the connecting ring 2923 presses against the raised outer surface 2805a of the tamper-evident band 2905. As can be seen in Figures 78 and 79, the cam surface 2923a of the connecting ring 2923 deforms the lower part of the tamper-evident band 2905 inward, causing the inner, relatively shallow annular projection 2957 to contract. This inward deformation creates an internal lip 2952 that engages the flange 20 to cut the bridge 2941 and separate the tamper-evident band 2905 from the rest of the closure 2801 when the closure 2901 is later removed from the container neck 2.

[0554] Figure 80 shows a closure conditioning system 3008 similar to the closure conditioning system 1308 in Figure 66, where similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increased by 1700. The closure conditioning system 3008 differs from the closure conditioning system in Figure 66 in that a beam shaping optical instrument 3080b diffuses the laser beam 3083 emitted from the light source 3080a vertically without changing its horizontal width, and the polygonal mirror 1380c is replaced with a free-form mirror 3080c. As an example, as shown in Figure 80, the laser assembly 3080 can be used to illuminate a series of closures 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 on a container 9 as the closures 1 move along the transport direction D1.

[0555] During use, the light source 3080a emits a laser beam 3083 through a beam shaping optical device 3080b, which is then reflected by a free-form mirror 3080c toward the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1 on the container 9 moving along the conveyor 3084. In this embodiment, the free-form mirror 3080c is configured to change the initial horizontal intensity distribution 3090 of the laser beam 3083 emitted from the light source 3080a. This initial horizontal intensity distribution 3090 is aligned with the horizontal plane, i.e., along the transport direction D1 shown in Figure 80. After the laser beam 3083 is reflected by the free-form mirror 3080c, the resulting laser beam 3083b has an irradiation horizontal intensity distribution 3091 that is different from the initial horizontal intensity distribution 3090.

[0556] More specifically, the initial horizontal intensity distribution 3090 has a standard normal distribution with a central peak. The irradiation horizontal intensity distribution 3091 has a peak 3091a that is asymmetrical toward the upstream of the conveyor 3084, so that the laser beam 3083b irradiates the tamper-evident band 5 of the closure 1 on the container 9 with a higher intensity toward the upstream end of the conveyor 3084 than toward the downstream end. However, it is conceivable that the freeform mirror 3080c can be shaped to produce different vertical and / or horizontal intensity distributions that conform to the required intensity distribution profile.

[0557] The free-form mirror 3080c may be tiltable to change the direction of the laser beam 3083b illuminating the closure 1. Furthermore, the laser assembly 3080 may include an adjustment mechanism (not shown) for dynamically changing the shape of the free-form mirror 3080c. This allows the user to control the vertical and / or horizontal intensity distribution and adapt it to any specific application. Alternatively, the free-form mirror 3080c can be provided by a rigid mirror that is pre-shaped to produce the desired vertical and / or horizontal intensity distribution.

[0558] Figure 81 shows a closure conditioning system 3108 similar to the closure conditioning system 3008 in Figure 80, where similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increased by 100. The closure conditioning system 3108 differs from the closure conditioning system in Figure 80 in that the free-form mirror 3080c is replaced by a planar mirror 3180d and a free-form lens 3180c. As a result, the orientation and intensity redistribution steps are separated, which can be further simplified in some applications.

[0559] However, the initial horizontal intensity distribution 3090 and the irradiation horizontal intensity distribution 3091 are identical to those in the closure conditioning system 3008 in Figure 80. Therefore, the same numbering is used.

[0560] The shape of the freeform lens 3180c can be changed according to specific requirements. This allows the vertical and / or horizontal intensity distribution to be modified to suit any particular application.

[0561] Figure 82 shows the vertical intensity distributions 3092a, 3092b, 3092c, 3092d, and 3092 of the irradiation horizontal intensity distribution 3091 at each of five different horizontal positions (i.e., different positions along the transport direction D1). As can be seen from Figure 82, each of the vertical intensity distributions 3092a, 3092b, 3092c, 3092d, and 3092e has a standard normal distribution with a central peak. Therefore, the vertical intensity distribution of the reflected laser beam 3083b is substantially identical to that of the initial laser beam 3083.

[0562] Of course, it is conceivable that the free-form mirror 3080c of the laser assembly 3080 in Figure 80, or the free-form lens 3180c of the laser assembly 3180 in Figure 81, can be shaped to similarly change their distribution, or that a separate free-form optical instrument can be used to achieve this.

[0563] Figure 83 shows a closure conditioning system 3208 similar to the closure conditioning system 1308 in Figure 66, where similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increased by 1900. The closure conditioning system 3208 differs from the closure conditioning system of Figure 66 in that it includes a scanning lens 3280e between the polygonal mirror 3280c and the closure 1. The scanning lens 3280e is preferably an f-θ scanning lens, but other forms of scanning lenses, such as a simple flat-field scanning lens, can be used instead.

[0564] Those skilled in the art will understand that the scanning lens 3280e alters the characteristics of the beam 3283b, resulting in a substantially planar focus. This provides a more continuous resolution and intensity across the plane on which the illuminated closure 1 lies, and a less variable illumination characteristic across the entire closure 1.

[0565] Figure 84 shows a closure conditioning system 3308 similar to the closure conditioning system 3208 in Figure 83, where similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals increased by 100. The closure conditioning system 3308 differs from the closure conditioning system in Figure 83 in that the movable concave mirror 3280d is replaced by a single stationary sawtooth reflector 3380d, which has multiple substantially identical triangular reflector sections 3380f. The direction of the reflected rays of the beam 3383b therefore remains constant. However, as the closure 1 moves in direction D1, the closure 1 passes between the polygonal mirror 3380c and the sawtooth reflector 3380d. Consequently, the portion of the beam 3383b reflected by any portion of the sawtooth reflector 3380d changes as the closure 1 moves past this point.

[0566] Figure 85 schematically shows the reflection of individual rays of beam 3383b to illustrate how closure 1 can be illuminated in time at a particular moment. The inventors measured that the majority of beam 3383b, approximately 70%, either directly illuminates closure 1 or is reflected to the rear by the sawtooth reflector 3380d. Those skilled in the art will understand that this arrangement is simpler to implement than the movable concave mirror 3280d and that in many cases the loss may be considered acceptable.

[0567] Figure 86 shows a closure conditioning system 3408 similar to the closure conditioning system 3308 in Figure 84, where similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals, increased by 100. The closure conditioning system 3408 differs from the closure conditioning system in Figure 84 in that the stationary sawtooth reflector 3480d is equipped with alternating large and small triangular reflector sections 3480f and 3480g.

[0568] The inventors believe this results in greater efficiency than the sawtooth reflector 3380d in previous embodiments. As shown in Figure 87, the alternating depths and angles of the large and small triangular reflector sections 3480f and 3480g reduce the multiple reflections produced by substantially identical triangular reflector section 3380f.

[0569] Of course, the triangular reflector portions 3380f, 3480f, and 3480g of the sawtooth reflectors 3380d and 3480d do not need to be triangular in shape. They may have flanks that are curved, concave, convex, sinusoidal, or any other preferred shape.

[0570] Moving to Figures 88-90, an alternative transport system is shown comprising a pair of rails R1, R2 and three conveyors 3581, 3582a, 3582b. Each rail R1, R2 is provided by plates formed from horizontally oriented, shaped sheet metal strips to provide a horizontal support surface for supporting the support shelf-like portion 21 of the container neck 2 (shown without the closure installed therein). Each rail R1, R2 also has angled lead-in LI1, LI2 and lead-out LO1, LO2. To show the relative position of the rails R1, R2 and the sawtooth reflector 3580d, a sawtooth reflector 3580d similar to that in the closure conditioning system 3308 of Figure 84 is shown, fixed to the rails R1, R2.

[0571] The first conveyor 3581 provides a movable horizontal surface 3584, which in this embodiment is provided by a belt. The vertical height of the first conveyor 3581 is adjustable to accommodate containers 9 of different heights.

[0572] The second and third conveyors 3582a and 3582b are each equipped with endless belts 3585a and 3585b. The endless belts 3585a and 3585b face each other and provide vertical surfaces that move in opposite directions, and these surfaces move substantially perpendicular to the movable horizontal surface 3584 of the first conveyor 3582 and engage the opposite side of the container 9.

[0573] The vertical and horizontal positions of the second and third conveyors 3582a and 3582b are also adjustable. More specifically, the second and third conveyors 3582a and 3582b are fixed to corresponding adjustment frames 3586a and 3586b, each of which is equipped with vertical height adjustment wheels V1 and V2 for adjusting the vertical height of the conveyors 3582a and 3582b, and horizontal height adjustment wheels H1 and H2 for adjusting the horizontal height of the conveyors 3582a and 3582b.

[0574] In this embodiment, the second and third conveyors 3582a and 3582b are positioned at different heights to engage the opposite sides of the container 9 in different axial directions. The inventors have measured that this results in a more reliable arrangement of the closure (not shown) during the simultaneous transport and rotation of the container 9.

[0575] As the container 9 is transported along the conveyors 3581, 3582a, and 3582b, their necks 2 are directed between the rails R1 and R2, where the support shelf 21 engages the angled lead-ins LI1 and LI2. As the container 9 is transported continuously, when it is illuminated by a laser beam (not shown), it is lifted from the first conveyor 3581 by a distance G. This reduces the asymmetry of the closure (not shown) that, in other cases, might be caused by the rotation of the base of the container 9 with respect to the movable horizontal surface 3584.

[0576] Those skilled in the art will understand that several variations to the construction and / or use of the embodiments described above can be conceived without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the polygonal mirrors 1282, 1380c, 1480d', 3080d, 3180d, 3280d, 3380d, and 3480d may have a non-polygonal shape or any shape configured to impart the desired optical effect. Similarly, the beam shaping optical instruments 1380b, 1480b, 3080b, 3180b, and 3280b may comprise one or more lenses, or a telescope device, or any other device configured to produce the desired beam features.

[0577] Any combination of the aforementioned features and / or those shown in the accompanying drawings will provide clear advantages over the prior art, and therefore, it will also be understood by those skilled in the art that these fall within the scope of the present invention as described herein.

Claims

1. A method for installing a thermoplastic closure at the neck of a container, The closure is arranged across the neck of the container, A method comprising reshaping the closure or a portion of the container neck and engaging the closure with the container neck.

2. The method according to claim 1, comprising applying heat to reshape the closure or the portion of the container neck.

3. The method according to claim 2, comprising applying heat to reshape the closure or the portion of the container neck, and movably engaging the closure portion with the container neck.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein a part of the closure is reshaped and one or more tamper-evident functional parts of the part engage with the container neck.

5. The method according to claim 4, comprising applying heat to at least a portion of the area around the closure, and movably engaging one or more tamper-evident components with the container neck and at least a portion of the area around the container neck.

6. The method according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the one or more tamper-evident functions are destructibly connected to the closure so as to remain on the container neck when the closure is removed from the container neck.

7. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the one or more tamper-evident functions include a tamper-evident band.

8. The method according to claim 7, comprising applying heat to one or more areas of the tamper-evident band, mainly around the tamper-evident band, and movably engaging the container neck.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein heat is applied to one or more areas of the tamper-evident band to fix or connect the tamper-evident band to the neck of the container without preventing the articulation of the tether connecting the tamper-evident band to the cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall of the closure when the closure is removed from the neck of the container.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein heat is applied to one or more areas of the tamper-evident band to deform, shrink or curl the one or more areas of the tamper-evident band inward, thereby creating a lip for engaging with the flange on the neck of the container.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the lip engages axially with the flange, allowing the closure to rotate relative to the container neck, thereby preventing the closure from being removed from the container neck.

12. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the tamper-evident band includes one or more tabs hinged to the tamper-evident band, and applying heat to one or more areas of the tamper-evident band includes applying heat to one or more tabs.

13. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the tamper-evident band comprises one or more projections or cams on the tamper-evident band that clear the container neck when the closure is placed on the tamper-evident band, and by applying heat to one or more areas of the tamper-evident band, the one or more areas of the tamper-evident band deform or contract inward, causing the projections or cams to align with and / or engage with the container neck.

14. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 13, wherein at least a portion of the one or more tamper-evident functional parts remains attached to the closure when the closure is removed from the neck of the container.

15. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 14, comprising, when heat is applied, rotating the closure and / or the container to reshape the closure or the portion of the container neck, thereby applying heat to at least a portion of the periphery of the closure and engaging the closure with the container neck, at least a portion of the periphery of the container neck.

16. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 15, comprising applying heat using a plurality of heat sources distributed around the closure to reshape the closure or a portion of the container neck, thereby applying heat to at least a portion of the periphery of the closure, and engaging the closure with the container neck, at least a portion of the periphery of the container neck.

17. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 16, comprising irradiating the closure or the part of the container neck with electromagnetic energy.

18. The method according to claim 17, comprising: modifying one or more characteristics of electromagnetic energy emitted by an electromagnetic energy light source; and irradiating the closure or a portion of the container neck with the modified electromagnetic energy.

19. The method according to claim 18, comprising: modifying the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy emitted by a light source; and irradiating the closure or a portion of the container neck with electromagnetic energy having the modified intensity distribution.

20. The method according to claim 19, comprising modifying the intensity distribution of the electromagnetic energy along the transport direction in which the closure or container neck is transported.

21. The method according to claim 19 or 20, comprising modifying the intensity distribution of the electromagnetic energy using a free-form mirror or lens.

22. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 20, comprising modifying the electromagnetic energy emitted by the electromagnetic energy light source using a rotating polygonal mirror to provide a substantially planar electromagnetic beam.

23. The method according to claim 22, comprising directing the substantially planar electromagnetic beam through a scanning lens before irradiating the closure.

24. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 23, comprising directing the electromagnetic energy source to a closure passing between the electromagnetic energy source and a mirror.

25. The method according to claim 24, wherein the mirror is concave and moves together with the closure in the transport direction or along a certain transport direction, thereby reflecting a portion of the electromagnetic energy emitted from the electromagnetic energy source toward the closure.

26. The method according to claim 24, wherein the mirror is stationary with respect to the source of the electromagnetic energy and comprises a series of alternating peaks and troughs.

27. The method according to claim 26, wherein the peaks and troughs have different widths.

28. The method according to claim 26 or 27, wherein each peak comprises a pair of substantially flat or planar, opposing flanks.

29. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 28, wherein irradiating the closure or the part of the container neck with electromagnetic energy includes directing a laser at the part.

30. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 29, wherein irradiating the closure or the part of the container neck with electromagnetic energy includes directing infrared or microwave energy to the part.

31. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 30, comprising irradiating the closure or the part of the container neck with electromagnetic energy and directing ultrasonic energy to the part.

32. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 16, comprising arranging the closure or a portion of the container neck on the opposite side of the heating element or adjacent to the heating element so as to be reshaped, applying heat to reshape the closure or the portion of the container neck, and engaging the closure with the container neck.

33. The method according to claim 32, comprising rotating the tamper-evident band of the closure when heat is applied to the closure by the heating element.

34. The method according to claim 33, comprising rolling the tamper-evident band along the heating element.

35. The method according to any one of claims 32 to 34, wherein the heating element includes a roller, a band, or a wire.

36. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 16, comprising directing a heated air knife towards the closure or a portion of the container neck to reshape the closure or a portion of the container neck, and engaging the closure with the container neck.

37. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 36, comprising applying heat to the first side of the portion of the closure or container neck without applying heat to the second side opposite to the first side.

38. The method according to claim 37, comprising cooling a portion of the second side before, after, or while heat is applied to the first side.

39. The method according to claim 37 or 38, wherein applying heat to the first side includes irradiating the outer surface with a laser such that a predetermined temperature difference is created between the outer surface and the inner surface of the second side.

40. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 39, comprising generating a visual indicator that shows the reshaping when the closure or container neck is reshaped.

41. The method according to claim 40, comprising crystallizing the reshaped portion of the closure or container neck by applying the heat, thereby providing the visual indicator.

42. The method according to claim 40 or 41, comprising changing the color or opacity of the reshaped portion of the closure or container neck to provide the visual indicator.

43. The method according to claim 42, comprising causing the closure or the container neck, or a portion thereof, to reshape by an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period of time.

44. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 43, wherein the reshaped portion of the closure or container neck includes a reheating agent for increasing heat absorption.

45. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 44, wherein the reshaped portion of the closure or container neck is provided with a surface finish configured to increase heat absorption.

46. The method according to any one of the prior claims, wherein the closure comprises a polyethylene terephthalate material.

47. The method according to claim 46, wherein the closure is formed of a multimodal PET material comprising a first polyethylene terephthalate (PET) having a first molecular weight and a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

48. The method according to claim 46 or 47, wherein the polyethylene terephthalate has an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dL / g.

49. The method according to claim 46 or 47, wherein the polyethylene terephthalate has an intrinsic viscosity of 0.4 dL / g to 0.8 dL / g.

50. The method according to claim 1, comprising mechanically deforming a part of the closure or the neck of the container to engage one or more tamper-evident features with the neck of the container.

51. The method according to any one of the prior claims, comprising reshaping a part of the closure to engage and contact with a rotation prevention or fixing function part of the closure neck.

52. The method according to any one of the prior claims, comprising reshaping a portion of the closure and providing a fixing function portion on the inner surface of the closure for cooperation with the fixing function portion of the container neck.

53. The method according to claim 52, comprising applying heat to a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall of the closure, and reshaping a selected portion of the cylindrical skirt to fit the fixing function portion of the container neck.

54. The method according to claim 53, comprising applying heat to the cylindrical skirt such that the plastically reshaped portion of the closure crystallizes at least partially.

55. The method according to any one of the prior claims, wherein the closure is positioned on the container neck such that the fixing function portion of the closure does not engage with the container neck, and the closure is reshaped so that, after or at some point after the closure is reshaped, the fixing function portion of the closure engages with the fixing function portion of the container neck.

56. The method according to any one of the prior claims, wherein after a lid is attached to the container and / or a label is affixed to the container, the container is coded, laser-marked, or boxed, the closure or a portion of the container neck is reshaped at the same time.

57. The method according to any one of the prior claims, comprising inducing internal stress in the portion of the closure that is being reshaped before the closure is placed in the container.

58. The method according to claim 57, wherein the induction of internal stress in the portion of the closure is brought about by stretching or expanding the closure during or after the molding process.

59. The method according to claim 57 or 58, wherein the induction of internal stress in the portion of the closure is achieved by subjecting the inner surface of the closure to a cooling temperature substantially different from the cooling temperature to which the outer surface of the closure is subjected.

60. The method according to any one of the prior claims, wherein the reshaped portion of the closure or container neck comprises one or more ribs.

61. The method according to any one of the prior claims, comprising reshaping a portion of the upright annular wall of the flange of the container neck to engage one or more tamper-evident functional portions of the closure.

62. The method according to any one of the prior claims, comprising providing a specific or some destructible connection between the closure and the membrane connecting the tamper-evident function to the closure by perforating, slitting, or cutting the membrane while the closure is installed on the neck of the container.

63. A thermoplastic closure having engaging portions that are adapted to be reshaped during post-molding operations.

64. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 63, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by the application of heat.

65. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 64, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped to movably engage with the container neck.

66. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 64 or 65, wherein the engaging portion comprises one or more tamper-evident functions.

67. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 66, wherein one or more tamper-evident functional units are configured to engage with the container neck portion, with at least a portion of the periphery of the container neck portion being the main feature.

68. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 66 or 67, wherein the one or more tamper-evident functions are destructibly connected to the closure so that it remains on the container neck when the closure is removed from the container neck.

69. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 66 to 68, wherein the one or more tamper-evident functional parts comprises a tamper-evident band or sleeve.

70. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 69, wherein the closure comprises a tether for connecting the tamper-evident band to a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall of the closure, and the tamper-evident band is reshaped and adapted to fix or connect to the tamper-evident band to the container neck without hindering the articulation of the tether when the closure is removed from the container neck.

71. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 69 or 70, wherein the tamper-evident band is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to one or more areas of the closure, causing the one or more areas to deform, shrink, or curl inward, thereby creating a lip for engaging a flange with the neck of the container.

72. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 69 to 71, wherein the tamper-evident band includes one or more tabs hinged to the tamper-evident band.

73. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 69 to 72, wherein the tamper-evident band comprises one or more projections or cams on the tamper-evident band configured to clear the container neck when the closure is placed on the tamper-evident band, and one or more areas of the tamper-evident band are configured to deform or contract inward when heat is applied to the tamper-evident band, so as to align and / or engage the projections or cams with the container neck.

74. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 64 to 73, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating the closure with electromagnetic energy.

75. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 74, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating the closure with a laser.

76. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 74, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating the closure with infrared or microwave energy.

77. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 74, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating the closure with ultrasonic energy.

78. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 64 to 73, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by exposing the closure to a heating roller, wire, or band.

79. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 64 to 73, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by exposing the closure to a heated air knife.

80. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 64 to 73, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to the first side of the engaging portion without applying heat to the second side of the engaging portion which is opposite to the first side.

81. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 64 to 73, wherein the engaging portion is configured to generate a visual indicator of the reshaping when it is reshaped.

82. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 81, wherein the engaging portion is configured to crystallize by applying the heat and provide the visual indicator.

83. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 81 or 82, wherein the engaging portion is configured to change color or opacity by applying heat to provide the visual indicator.

84. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 83, wherein the engaging portion includes an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period of time.

85. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 64 to 84, wherein the engaging portion includes a reheating agent for increasing its heat absorption.

86. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 64 to 85, wherein the engaging portion has a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

87. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 63 to 86, wherein the closure comprises a polyethylene terephthalate material.

88. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 87, wherein the closure comprises a multimodal PET material, the closure being formed of a first polyethylene terephthalate (PET) having a first molecular weight and a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

89. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 87 or 88, wherein the polyethylene terephthalate has an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.7 dL / g.

90. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 87 or 88, wherein the polyethylene terephthalate has an intrinsic viscosity of 0.3 dL / g to 0.7 dL / g.

91. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 63, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by mechanical deformation.

92. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 63 to 91, wherein the engaging portion is configured to be reshaped so as to engage and contact with the rotation prevention or fixing function portion of the closure neck.

93. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 63 to 91, wherein the engaging portion is reshaped and configured to provide a fixing function on the inner surface of the closure for cooperating with the fixing function portion of the container neck.

94. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 93, wherein the engaging portion includes a selected portion of a cylindrical skirt hanging down from the top wall of the closure, and the selected portion is configured to be reshaped by applying heat to conform to the fixing function portion of the container neck.

95. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 63 to 94, wherein the closure is configured to be positioned on the container neck such that the fixing function portion of the closure does not engage with the container neck, and the entire closure is configured to be reshaped such that the fixing function portion of the closure engages with the fixing function portion of the container neck after or at some point in the reshaping of the closure.

96. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 63 to 95, wherein the engaging portion includes internal stress.

97. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 63 to 96, wherein the engaging portion comprises one or more ribs.

98. A thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 63 to 97, comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging down from the top wall, and an annular tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident band is configured such that the closure does not engage with the container when it is installed across the neck opening of the container, and is reshaped by the closure installed on the container during use so that the tamper-evident band engages with the container.

99. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 98, wherein the tamper-evident band has a substantially cylindrical inner surface that lacks an engaging function for allowing the flange of the container neck to be received on the container neck in a way that prevents tampering.

100. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 98 or 99, wherein at least a portion of the connection between the tamper-evident band and the cylindrical skirt is breakable.

101. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 98 or 99, wherein at least a portion of the tamper-evident band is connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane.

102. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 101, wherein the membrane has a radial wall thickness that is smaller than the radial wall thickness of the tamper-proof function part and the cylindrical skirt.

103. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 101 or 102, wherein the membrane comprises one or more ribs having a radial wall thickness greater than the radial wall thickness of the rest of the membrane.

104. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 98 to 103, wherein at least a portion of the tamper-evident band has a radial wall thickness of 0.6 mm or less, 0.5 mm or less, 0.4 mm or less, or further 0.3 mm or less, and for example, the tamper-evident band includes a film.

105. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 98 to 104, wherein the tamper-evident band comprises a first annular portion connected to the cylindrical skirt of the closure and a second annular portion hanging down from the first annular portion, the second annular portion having a radial wall thickness smaller than the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion.

106. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 98 to 105, further comprising a tether for connecting the tamper-evident band to the cylindrical skirt.

107. A thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 98 to 106, comprising one or more tabs hinged to the tamper-evident band and configured to deform when heat is applied to the tamper-evident band.

108. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 98 to 107, comprising an indestructible connection between the tamper-evident band and the cylindrical skirt.

109. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 108, wherein the tamper-evident band includes a breakable wire spanning its height, the breakable wire is adjacent to the indestructible connection such that, during use, when the closure is first removed from the neck of the container, the tamper-evident band becomes a strip connected to the closure by the indestructible connection.

110. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 98 to 109, wherein the tamper-evident band comprises one or more ribs.

111. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 98 to 110, wherein the tamper-evident band has a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

112. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 98 to 111, wherein the tamper-evident band is larger than the cylindrical skirt and connected to the cylindrical skirt by a destructible connection or membrane that extends radially or conically.

113. The thermoplastic closure according to any one of claims 98 to 112, wherein the inner surface of the cylindrical skirt is substantially cylindrical and lacks a fixing function for enabling the closure to be received in the container neck without being prevented.

114. A molding stack comprising a molding structure, wherein the molding structure defines a cavity for molding a closure having an engaging portion adapted to be reshaped in a post-molding operation.

115. The molding stack according to claim 114, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by the application of heat.

116. The molded stack according to claim 115, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped to movably engage with the container neck.

117. The molding stack according to claim 115 or 116, wherein the engagement portion comprises one or more tamper-evident functions.

118. The molded stack according to claim 117, wherein the one or more tamper-evident functional units are configured to engage with the container neck portion, with at least a portion of the area surrounding the container neck portion.

119. The molded stack according to claim 117 or 118, wherein the one or more tamper-evident functions are destructibly connected to the closure so that it remains attached to the container neck when the closure is removed from the container neck.

120. The molding stack according to any one of claims 117 to 119, wherein the one or more tamper-evident functional units include a tamper-evident band or sleeve.

121. The molding stack according to claim 120, wherein the closure comprises a tether for connecting the tamper-evident band to a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall of the closure, and the tamper-evident band is reshaped and adapted to secure or connect to the tamper-evident band to the container neck without hindering the articulation of the tether when the closure is removed from the container neck.

122. The molded stack according to claim 120 or 121, wherein the tamper-evident band is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to one or more areas of the closure, causing the one or more areas to deform, shrink, or curl inward, thereby creating a lip for engaging a flange with the neck of the container.

123. The molded stack according to claims 120 to 122, wherein the tamper-evident band includes one or more tabs hinged to the tamper-evident band.

124. The molding stack according to claims 120 to 123, wherein the tamper-evident band comprises one or more projections or cams on the tamper-evident band configured to clear the container neck when the closure is placed on the tamper-evident band, and one or more regions of the tamper-evident band are configured to deform or contract inward when heat is applied to the tamper-evident band, so as to align and / or engage with the projections or cams with the container neck.

125. The molding stack according to any one of claims 115 to 124, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating the closure with electromagnetic energy.

126. The molding stack according to claim 125, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating the closure with a laser.

127. The molding stack according to claim 125, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating the closure with infrared or microwave energy.

128. The molding stack according to claim 125, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating the closure with ultrasonic energy.

129. The molding stack according to any one of claims 115 to 124, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by exposing the closure to a heating roller, wire, or band.

130. The molding stack according to any one of claims 115 to 124, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by exposing the closure to a heated air knife.

131. The molding stack according to any one of claims 115 to 124, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to the first side of the engaging portion without applying heat to the second side of the engaging portion which is opposite to the first side.

132. The molding stack according to any one of claims 115 to 124, wherein the engaging portion is configured to generate a visual indicator indicating the reshaping when it is reshaped.

133. The molding stack according to claim 132, wherein the engaging portion is configured to crystallize by applying the heat and provide the visual indicator.

134. The molding stack according to claim 132 or 133, wherein the engaging portion is configured to change color or opacity by applying heat to provide the visual indicator.

135. The molding stack according to claim 134, wherein the engaging portion includes an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period of time.

136. The molding stack according to any one of claims 115 to 135, wherein the engaging portion includes a reheating agent for increasing its heat absorption.

137. The molding stack according to any one of claims 115 to 136, wherein the engaging portion has a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

138. The molding stack according to any one of claims 114 to 137, wherein the closure comprises polyethylene terephthalate material.

139. The molded stack according to claim 138, wherein the closure comprises a multimodal polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material, the closure being formed of a first PET having a first molecular weight and a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

140. The molded stack according to claim 138 or 139, wherein the polyethylene terephthalate has an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.7 dL / g.

141. The molding stack according to claim 138 or 139, wherein the polyethylene terephthalate has an intrinsic viscosity of 0.3 dL / g to 0.7 dL / g.

142. The molding stack according to claim 114, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by mechanical deformation.

143. The molding stack according to any one of claims 114 to 142, wherein the engaging portion is configured to be reshaped so as to engage and contact with the rotation prevention or fixing function portion of the closure neck.

144. The molding stack according to any one of claims 114 to 142, wherein the engaging portion is reshaped and configured to provide a fixing portion on the inner surface of the closure for cooperating with the fixing portion of the container neck.

145. The molding stack according to claim 144, wherein the engaging portion includes a selected portion of a cylindrical skirt hanging down from the top wall of the closure, and the selected portion is configured to be reshaped by applying heat to conform to the fixing function portion of the container neck.

146. The molding stack according to any one of claims 114 to 145, wherein the closure is configured to be positioned on the container neck such that the fixing function portion of the closure does not engage with the container neck, and the entire closure is configured to be reshaped such that the fixing function portion of the closure engages with the fixing function portion of the container neck after or at some point in the reshaping of the closure.

147. The molding stack according to any one of claims 114 to 146, wherein the molding stack is configured to stretch or expand the tamper-evident band during or after the molding process.

148. The molding stack according to any one of claims 114 to 147, wherein the engaging portion comprises one or more ribs.

149. A molded stack according to any one of claims 114 to 148, comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging down from the top wall, and an annular tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident band is configured such that the closure does not engage with the container when it is installed across the neck opening of the container, and is reshaped by the closure installed on the container during use so that the tamper-evident band engages with the container.

150. The molded stack according to claim 149, wherein the tamper-evident band comprises a substantially cylindrical inner surface that lacks an engaging function for allowing the flange of the container neck to be received in a manner that prevents tampering.

151. The molded stack according to claim 149 or 150, wherein at least a portion of the connection between the tamper-evident band and the cylindrical skirt is breakable.

152. The molded stack according to claim 149 or 150, wherein at least a portion of the tamper-evident band is connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane.

153. The molding stack according to claim 152, wherein the film has a radial wall thickness that is smaller than the radial wall thickness of the tamper-proof function portion and the cylindrical skirt.

154. The molding stack according to claim 152 or 153, wherein the film comprises one or more ribs having a radial wall thickness greater than the radial wall thickness of the rest of the film.

155. The molded stack according to any one of claims 149 to 154, wherein at least a portion of the tamper-evident band has a radial wall thickness of 0.6 mm or less, 0.5 mm or less, 0.4 mm or less, or further, 0.3 mm or less, and for example, the tamper-evident band includes a film.

156. The molding stack according to any one of claims 149 to 155, wherein the tamper-evident band comprises a first annular portion connected to the cylindrical skirt of the closure and a second annular portion hanging down from the first annular portion, the second annular portion having a radial wall thickness smaller than the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion.

157. The molding stack according to any one of claims 149 to 156, further comprising a tether for connecting the tamper-evident band to the cylindrical skirt.

158. A molded stack according to any one of claims 149 to 157, comprising one or more tabs hinged to the tamper-evident band and configured to deform when heat is applied to the tamper-evident band.

159. The molding stack according to any one of claims 149 to 158, comprising an unbreakable connection between the tamper-evident band and the cylindrical skirt.

160. The molded stack according to claim 159, wherein the tamper-evident band includes a breakable line extending over its height, the breakable line being adjacent to the indestructible connection such that, during use, when the first removal of the closure from the container neck, the tamper-evident band becomes a strip connected to the closure by the indestructible connection.

161. The molding stack according to any one of claims 149 to 160, wherein the tamper-evident band comprises one or more ribs.

162. The molding stack according to any one of claims 149 to 161, wherein the tamper-evident band has a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

163. The molded stack according to any one of claims 149 to 162, wherein the tamper-evident band is larger than the cylindrical skirt and connected to the cylindrical skirt by a destructible connection or membrane that extends radially or conically.

164. The molding stack according to any one of claims 149 to 163, wherein the inner surface of the cylindrical skirt is substantially cylindrical and lacks a fixing function for enabling the closure to be received in the container neck without being prevented.

165. A molded stack according to any one of claims 149 to 164, comprising a stripper sleeve that is movable to contact the tamper-evident band of a molded closure when in use, wherein the stripper sleeve has a first surface and a second surface for simultaneously contacting one side and the bottom surface of the tamper-evident band, respectively, during stripping of the molded closure.

166. The molding stack according to claim 165, wherein the stripper sleeve comprises pockets defining the first and second surfaces, the depth of which the pockets are configured such that the upper surface of the stripper sleeve adjacent to the pockets contacts a portion of the rim of the cylindrical skirt during injection in order to transfer the injection force to the rim of the cylindrical skirt.

167. A molding stack according to any one of claims 149 to 166, comprising a cavity insert or assembly having a molded surface defining at least a portion of the outer surface of at least one of the cylindrical skirt and the tamper-evident band, or each of them.

168. A mold comprising a plurality of molding stacks according to any one of claims 114 to 167.

169. A molding system comprising the mold described in claim 168.

170. A system for engaging a closure with a container neck, the system comprising one or more reshaping members, the system being operable to reshape the one or more reshaping members into a part of the closure or the container neck, thereby engaging the closure with the container neck.

171. The system according to claim 170, wherein the system is operable to apply heat to reshape the closure or the portion of the container neck.

172. The system according to claim 170, wherein the system is capable of applying heat to reshape the closure or the portion of the container neck and operating the closure to movably engage with the container neck.

173. The system according to claim 171, wherein the system applies heat mainly to the area around the closure, and one or more tamper-evident features of the closure are operable to movably engage with the container neck and mainly to the area around the container neck.

174. The system according to any one of claims 171 to 173, comprising a transport assembly for transporting the container through the system.

175. The transport assembly is operable to rotate the closure and / or the container when one or more tamper-evident functional units are reshaped by the reshaping member, according to claim 174.

176. The system according to any one of claims 171 to 175, wherein the one or more reshaping members comprises a plurality of reshaping members distributed around the closure, and the reshaping members are operable to reshape the one or more tamper-evident functional parts, centered on at least a portion of the periphery of the closure.

177. The system according to any one of claims 170 to 176, wherein at least one of the reshaping members is provided with an electromagnetic energy light source.

178. The system according to claim 177, comprising one or more optical devices for modifying one or more characteristics of the electromagnetic energy emitted by the electromagnetic energy light source.

179. The system according to claim 178, wherein one or more optical devices are configured to change the intensity distribution of electromagnetic energy emitted by the electromagnetic energy light source.

180. The system according to claim 179, wherein one or more optical instruments are configured to change the intensity distribution along the transport direction in which the closure or container neck is transported.

181. The system according to claim 179 or 180, wherein the one or more optical instruments comprises a free-form mirror or lens for changing the intensity distribution of the electromagnetic energy.

182. The system according to any one of claims 178 to 181, wherein at least one of the optical instruments comprises a rotating polygonal mirror configured to provide a substantially planar electromagnetic beam.

183. The system according to claim 182, wherein at least one of the optical instruments comprises a scanning lens, and the system is configured to direct the substantially planar electromagnetic beam through the scanning lens before irradiating the closure during use.

184. The system according to any one of claims 178 to 183, wherein at least one of the optical instruments comprises a mirror, and the system is configured to direct the electromagnetic energy source to a closure passing between the electromagnetic energy source and the mirror.

185. The system according to claim 184, wherein the mirror is concave and is configured to move with the closure on the conveyor, or one of the conveyors, during use, thereby reflecting a portion of the electromagnetic energy emitted from the electromagnetic energy source toward the closure.

186. The system according to claim 184, wherein the mirror is stationary with respect to the source of the electromagnetic energy and comprises a series of alternating peaks and troughs.

187. The system according to claim 186, wherein the peaks and troughs are of different widths.

188. The system according to claim 186 or 187, wherein each peak comprises a pair of substantially flat or planar opposing flanks.

189. The system according to any one of claims 177 to 188, wherein at least one of the reshaping members comprises a laser.

190. The system according to any one of claims 177 to 189, wherein at least one of the reshaping members comprises an infrared or microwave emitter.

191. The system according to any one of claims 177 to 190, wherein at least one of the reshaping members comprises ultrasonic energy or an ultrasonic energy light source.

192. The system according to any one of claims 170 to 191, wherein at least one of the reshaping members comprises a roller, a band, or a wire.

193. The system according to claim 192, wherein the system is configured to heat the roller, band, or wire.

194. The system according to any one of claims 170 to 193, wherein at least one of the reshaping members is provided with a fluid source.

195. The system according to claim 194, wherein the source of the fluid is an air knife.

196. The system according to claim 195, wherein the system is configured to heat the airflow by the air knife during use.

197. The system according to any one of claims 170 to 196, wherein the reshaping member comprises two or more reshaping members, one of which is configured to reshape a further portion of the closure and to provide a fixing function to the inner surface of the closure for cooperation with the fixing function of the container neck.

198. The system according to any one of claims 170 to 197, comprising a perforation, slitting, or cutting assembly, which perforates, slits, or cuts a membrane connecting the tamper-proof function to the closure, thereby providing a destructible connection between the tamper-proof function and the closure.

199. A molding system comprising the system described in any one of claims 170 to 198.

200. A packaging system comprising the system according to any one of claims 170 to 198, and one or more of a visual inspection station, a lid attachment station, a labeling station, a coding station, a laser marking station, and / or a boxing station.

201. A package comprising a thermoplastic closure at the neck of the container, wherein the closure includes an engaging portion formed by reshaping a part of the closure so that a part of the closure engages with the neck of the container.

202. The package according to claim 201, wherein the engagement function unit comprises one or more tamper-evident function units.

203. The package according to claim 202, wherein the one or more tamper-evident functions are configured to engage with the container neck portion, with at least a portion of the area surrounding the container neck portion.

204. The package according to claim 202 or 203, wherein the one or more tamper-evident features are destructibly connected to the closure so that it remains attached to the container neck when the closure is removed from the container neck.

205. The package according to any one of claims 202 to 204, wherein the one or more tamper-evident features include a tamper-evident band or sleeve.

206. The package according to claim 205, wherein the free end of the tamper-evident band is deformed inward to create a lip for engaging a flange with the neck of the container.

207. The package according to claim 206, wherein the lip allows the closure to be rotated relative to the container neck while engaging the flange in the axial direction, thereby preventing the closure from being removed from the container neck.

208. The package according to any one of claims 205 to 207, wherein the closure comprises a tether for connecting the tamper-evident band to a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall of the closure, and the tamper-evident band is reshaped and adapted to secure or connect to the tamper-evident band to the container neck without hindering the articulation of the tether when the closure is removed from the container neck.

209. The package according to any one of claims 205 to 208, wherein the tamper-evident band includes one or more tabs hinged to the tamper-evident band.

210. The package according to any one of claims 201 to 209, wherein the engagement function portion is provided with a visual indicator for showing the shape.

211. The package according to claim 210, wherein the engagement function portion is crystallized to provide the visual indicator.

212. The package according to claim 210, wherein the visual indicator includes color or opacity indicating the application of heat.

213. The package according to claim 212, wherein the engaging function part includes an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period of time.

214. The package according to claim 212, wherein the engaging function portion includes a reheating agent for increasing its heat absorption.

215. The package according to claim 212, wherein the engaging functional portion has a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

216. The package according to claim 212, wherein the closure comprises polyethylene terephthalate material.

217. The package according to claim 216, wherein the closure comprises a multimodal PET material formed of a first polyethylene terephthalate (PET) having a first molecular weight and a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

218. The package according to claim 216 or 217, wherein the polyethylene terephthalate has an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.7 dL / g.

219. The package according to claim 216 or 217, wherein the polyethylene terephthalate has an intrinsic viscosity of 0.3 dL / g to 0.7 dL / g.

220. The package according to any one of claims 201 to 219, wherein the engaging function part comprises a fixing function part on the inner surface of the closure for cooperating with the fixing function part of the container neck.

221. The package according to any one of claims 201 to 220, wherein the engagement function portion comprises one or more ribs.

222. The package according to any one of claims 201 to 221, comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall, and an annular tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein at least a portion of the connection between the tamper-evident band and the cylindrical skirt is breakable.

223. The package according to claim 222, wherein at least a portion of the tamper-evident band is connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane.

224. The package according to claim 223, wherein the film has a radial wall thickness that is smaller than the radial wall thickness of the tamper-evident function portion and the cylindrical skirt.

225. The package according to claim 223 or 224, wherein the film comprises one or more ribs having a radial wall thickness greater than the radial wall thickness of the rest of the film.

226. The package according to any one of claims 222 to 225, wherein at least a portion of the tamper-evident band has a radial wall thickness of 0.6 mm or less, 0.5 mm or less, 0.4 mm or less, or further, 0.3 mm or less, and for example, the tamper-evident band includes a film.

227. The tamper-evident band comprises a first annular portion connected to the cylindrical skirt of the closure and a second annular portion hanging down from the first annular portion, wherein the second annular portion has a radial wall thickness smaller than the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion, according to any one of claims 222 to 226.

228. The package according to any one of claims 222 to 227, further comprising a tether for connecting the tamper-evident band to the cylindrical skirt.

229. The package according to any one of claims 222 to 228, comprising one or more tabs hinged to the tamper-evident band.

230. The package according to any one of claims 222 to 229, comprising an indestructible connection between the tamper-evident band and the cylindrical skirt.

231. The package according to claim 230, wherein the tamper-evident band includes a breakable wire that spans its height, the breakable wire is adjacent to the indestructible connection such that, when the closure is first removed from the neck of the container during use, the tamper-evident band becomes a strip connected to the closure by the indestructible connection.

232. The package according to any one of claims 222 to 231, wherein the tamper-evident band comprises one or more ribs.

233. The package according to any one of claims 222 to 232, wherein the tamper-evident band has a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

234. A parts kit for assembling into a package, the kit is A parts kit comprising a container and a molded closure for sealing the neck opening of the container, wherein the closure includes an engaging portion configured to not engage with the container when the closure is installed across the neck opening of the container, and which is reshaped during use together with the closure installed on the container so as to engage the engaging portion with the container.

235. The parts kit according to claim 234, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by the application of heat.

236. The parts kit according to claim 235, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped to movably engage with the container neck.

237. The parts kit according to claim 235 or 236, wherein the engagement portion comprises one or more tamper-evident functions.

238. The parts kit according to claim 237, wherein one or more tamper-evident functions are configured to engage with the container neck, with at least a portion of the area surrounding the container neck.

239. The parts kit according to claim 237 or 238, wherein one or more tamper-evident functions are destructibly connected to the closure so that it remains attached to the neck of the container when the closure is removed from the neck of the container.

240. The parts kit according to any one of claims 237 to 239, wherein the one or more tamper-evident functional units include a tamper-evident band or sleeve.

241. The parts kit according to claim 240, wherein the closure comprises a tether for connecting the tamper-evident band to a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall of the closure, and the tamper-evident band is reshaped and adapted to secure or connect to the tamper-evident band to the container neck without hindering the articulation of the tether when the closure is removed from the container neck.

242. The parts kit according to claim 240 or 241, wherein the tamper-evident band is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to one or more areas of the closure, causing the one or more areas to deform, shrink, or curl inward, thereby creating a lip for engaging a flange with the neck of the container.

243. The parts kit according to any one of claims 240 to 242, wherein the tamper-evident band includes one or more tabs hinged to the tamper-evident band.

244. The parts kit according to any one of claims 240 to 243, wherein the tamper-evident band comprises one or more projections or cams on the tamper-evident band configured to clear the container neck when the closure is placed on the tamper-evident band, and one or more areas of the tamper-evident band are configured to deform or contract inward when heat is applied to the tamper-evident band, so as to align and / or engage the projections or cams with the container neck.

245. The parts kit according to any one of claims 235 to 244, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating the closure with electromagnetic energy.

246. The parts kit according to claim 245, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating the closure with a laser.

247. The parts kit according to claim 245, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating the closure with infrared or microwave energy.

248. The parts kit according to claim 245, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by irradiating the closure with ultrasonic energy.

249. The parts kit according to any one of claims 235 to 244, wherein the engaging portion is adapted so that the closure can be reshaped by exposure to a heating roller, wire, or band.

250. The parts kit according to any one of claims 235 to 244, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by exposing the closure to a heated air knife.

251. The parts kit according to any one of claims 235 to 244, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by applying heat to the first side of the engaging portion without applying heat to the second side of the engaging portion which is opposite to the first side.

252. The parts kit according to any one of claims 235 to 244, wherein the engaging portion is configured to generate a visual indicator showing the reshaping when it is reshaped.

253. The parts kit according to claim 252, wherein the engaging portion is configured to crystallize by applying the heat and provide the visual indicator.

254. The parts kit according to claim 252 or 253, wherein the engaging portion is configured to change color or opacity by applying heat, thereby providing the visual indicator.

255. The parts kit according to claim 254, wherein the engaging portion includes an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period of time.

256. The parts kit according to any one of claims 235 to 255, wherein the engaging portion includes a reheating agent for increasing its heat absorption.

257. The parts kit according to any one of claims 235 to 26, wherein the engaging portion has a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

258. The closure comprises polyethylene terephthalate material, as described in any one of claims 234 to 257.

259. The parts kit according to claim 258, wherein the closure comprises a multimodal polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material, the closure being formed of a first PET having a first molecular weight and a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

260. The parts kit according to claim 258 or 259, wherein the polyethylene terephthalate has an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.7 dL / g.

261. The parts kit according to claim 258 or 259, wherein the polyethylene terephthalate has an intrinsic viscosity of 0.3 dL / g to 0.7 dL / g.

262. The parts kit according to claim 234, wherein the engaging portion is adapted to be reshaped by mechanical deformation.

263. The parts kit according to any one of claims 234 to 262, wherein the engaging portion is configured to be reshaped so as to engage and contact with the rotation prevention or fixing function portion of the closure neck.

264. The parts kit according to any one of claims 234 to 262, wherein the engaging portion is reshaped and configured to provide a fixing portion on the inner surface of the closure for cooperating with the fixing portion of the container neck.

265. The parts kit according to claim 264, wherein the engaging portion includes a selected portion of a cylindrical skirt hanging down from the top wall of the closure, and the selected portion is configured to be reshaped by applying heat to conform to the fixing function portion of the container neck.

266. The parts kit according to any one of claims 234 to 265, wherein the closure is configured to be positioned on the container neck such that the fixing function portion of the closure does not engage with the container neck, and the entire closure is configured to be reshaped so that the fixing function portion of the closure engages with the fixing function portion of the container neck after or at some time of reshaping the closure.

267. The parts kit according to any one of claims 234 to 266, wherein the engaging portion includes internal stress.

268. The parts kit according to any one of claims 234 to 267, wherein the engaging portion comprises one or more ribs.

269. A parts kit according to any one of claims 234 to 268, comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging down from the top wall, and an annular tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt, wherein the tamper-evident band is configured such that the closure does not engage with the container when it is installed across the neck opening of the container, and is reshaped by the closure installed on the container during use so that the tamper-evident band engages with the container.

270. The parts kit according to claim 269, wherein the tamper-evident band has a substantially cylindrical inner surface that lacks an engaging function for allowing the flange of the container neck to be received on the container neck in a way that prevents tampering.

271. The parts kit according to claim 269 or 270, wherein at least a portion of the connection between the tamper-evident band and the cylindrical skirt is breakable.

272. The parts kit according to claim 269 or 270, wherein at least a portion of the tamper-evident band is connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane.

273. The parts kit according to claim 272, wherein the film has a radial wall thickness that is smaller than the radial wall thickness of the tamper-evident function part and the cylindrical skirt.

274. The parts kit according to claim 272 or 273, wherein the film comprises one or more ribs having a radial wall thickness greater than the radial wall thickness of the rest of the film.

275. The parts kit according to any one of claims 269 to 274, wherein at least a portion of the tamper-evident band has a radial wall thickness of 0.6 mm or less, 0.5 mm or less, 0.4 mm or less, or further, 0.3 mm or less, and for example, the tamper-evident band includes a film.

276. The tamper-evident band comprises a first annular portion connected to the cylindrical skirt of the closure and a second annular portion hanging down from the first annular portion, wherein the second annular portion has a radial wall thickness smaller than the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion, according to any one of claims 269 to 275.

277. The parts kit according to any one of claims 269 to 276, further comprising a tether for connecting the tamper-evident band to the cylindrical skirt.

278. A parts kit according to any one of claims 269 to 277, comprising one or more tabs hinged to the tamper-evident band and configured to deform when heat is applied to the tamper-evident band.

279. The parts kit according to any one of claims 269 to 278, comprising an indestructible connection between the tamper-evident band and the cylindrical skirt.

280. The parts kit according to claim 279, wherein the tamper-evident band includes a breakable wire that spans its height, the breakable wire is adjacent to the indestructible connection such that, when the closure is first removed from the neck of the container during use, the tamper-evident band becomes a strip connected to the closure by the indestructible connection.

281. The parts kit according to any one of claims 269 to 280, wherein the tamper-evident band comprises one or more ribs.

282. The parts kit according to any one of claims 269 to 281, wherein the tamper-evident band has a surface finish configured to increase its heat absorption.

283. The parts kit according to any one of claims 269 to 282, wherein the tamper-evident band is larger than the cylindrical skirt and connected to the cylindrical skirt by a destructible connection or membrane that extends radially or conically.

284. The parts kit according to any one of claims 269 to 283, wherein the inner surface of the cylindrical skirt is substantially cylindrical and lacks a fixing function for enabling the closure to be received in the container neck without being prevented.

285. A method for installing a closure at the neck of a container, A method comprising arranging the closure across the neck of the container and irradiating a portion of the closure with a laser to engage the closure with the neck of the container, wherein at least the irradiated portion of the closure comprises polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material.

286. The method according to claim 285, wherein irradiating a portion of the closure with a laser involves directing a substantially planar laser beam towards the portion of the closure or the container neck.

287. A method for installing a closure on the neck of a container, comprising: arranging the closure across the neck of the container; and irradiating a portion of the closure with a substantially planar laser beam to engage the closure with the neck of the container.

288. The method according to claim 286 or 287, comprising rotating the closure while the closure portion is illuminated by the substantially planar laser beam.

289. The method according to any one of claims 286 to 288, comprising using one or more optical instruments to alter one or more characteristics of a laser emitted from a light source to provide, alter, or redirect the substantially planar laser beam.

290. The method according to claim 289, wherein the one or more optical devices include a rotating polygonal mirror for diffusing the laser emitted by the light source.

291. The method according to claim 289, wherein the one or more optical devices include free-form mirrors for diffusing the laser emitted by the light source.

292. The method according to any one of claims 289 to 291, comprising transporting a plurality of closures along the transport direction, each on a corresponding container neck, and simultaneously irradiating a portion of each closure with the substantially planar laser beam.

293. The method according to claim 292, wherein the one or more optical instruments comprises one or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure with respect to the light source, and at least a portion of the substantially planar laser beam travels around or between the closure, is reflected by the one or more mirrors and returns to the closure.

294. The method according to claim 293, wherein, with respect to the light source, one or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure have a series of alternating peaks and troughs.

295. The method according to claim 294, wherein at least some of the series of peaks and troughs are substantially identical.

296. The method according to claim 294, wherein at least some of the series of peaks and troughs are of different widths.

297. The method according to claim 295 or 296, wherein each peak comprises a pair of substantially flat or planar, opposing flanks.

298. The method according to claim 293, wherein the one or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure with respect to the light source are concave mirrors which may be associated with each closure.

299. The method according to claim 298, wherein the concave mirror moves together with the closure along the transport direction.

300. The method according to any one of claims 292 to 299, wherein the one or more optical instruments comprises a scanning lens for providing the substantially planar laser beam at a substantially planar focal point along the transport direction.

301. The method according to any one of claims 292 to 300, comprising supporting the radial support flange of the container neck and engaging the opposite side of the container body hanging down from the container neck to transport the container along the transport direction, and rotating the container and closure as it is transported along the transport direction.

302. The method according to claim 301, wherein the opposite side of the container body is engaged using a pair of conveyors that engage the container body at positions on different axes.

303. The method according to any one of claims 286 to 302, wherein the substantially planar laser beam is directed along a portion of the periphery of the tamper-evident band of the closure, and the tamper-evident band is engaged with the flange of the container neck.

304. The method according to claim 303, wherein the substantially planar laser beam is directed along a portion of the periphery of the tamper-evident band of the closure, thereby causing the free edge of the tamper-evident band to curl inward and engage with the flange of the container neck.

305. The method according to claim 303 or 304, wherein the interlocking surface of the tamper-evident band clears the flange when the closure is positioned across the neck of the container, but engages the flange when the closure is removed from the neck of the container after the tamper-evident band has been irradiated by the substantially planar laser beam.

306. The method according to claim 305, wherein the tamper-evident band has a substantially cylindrical inner surface formed by the substantially cylindrical outer surface of the core in order to prevent internal stress within the molded tamper-evident band.

307. The method according to claim 306, wherein the substantially cylindrical inner surface of the tamper-evident band lacks an engaging function.

308. The method according to any one of claims 303 to 307, wherein the tamper-evident band has a substantially constant wall thickness of 0.3 mm to 0.8 mm.

309. The method according to any one of claims 303 to 308, wherein the tamper-evident band has a substantially constant radial wall thickness of 10% to 25% of its axial length.

310. The method according to any one of claims 303 to 309, wherein the tamper-evident band has a substantially constant radial wall thickness of 12% to 23% of its axial length.

311. The method according to any one of claims 303 to 310, wherein the tamper-evident band has a substantially constant radial wall thickness of 14% to 21% of its axial length.

312. The method according to any one of claims 303 to 311, wherein the tamper-evident band comprises one or more hardened portions and one or more weakened portions that deform preferentially with respect to the one or more hardened portions when the substantially planar laser beam is directed at them.

313. The method according to any one of claims 303 to 312, wherein the tamper-evident band comprises a first annular portion connected to the cylindrical skirt of the closure and a second annular portion hanging down from the first annular portion, the second annular portion having a radial wall thickness smaller than the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion, the substantially planar laser beam being directed along a portion of the periphery of the second annular portion, and the tamper-evident band engaging with the flange of the container neck.

314. The method according to claim 313, wherein the radial wall thickness of the second annular portion is at least 20% of the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion.

315. The method according to claim 313, wherein the radial wall thickness of the second annular portion is 40% to 90% of the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion.

316. The method according to claim 313, wherein the radial wall thickness of the second annular portion is 50% to 80% of the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion.

317. The method according to any one of claims 313 to 316, wherein the second annular portion has an axial height that is at least 50% of the axial height of the first annular portion.

318. The method according to any one of claims 313 to 316, wherein the second annular portion has an axial height that is at least 80% of the axial height of the first annular portion.

319. The method according to any one of claims 313 to 316, wherein the second annular portion has an axial height at least equal to the axial height of the first annular portion.

320. The method according to any one of claims 313 to 319, wherein the axial height of the second annular portion is less than three times the axial height of the first annular portion.

321. The method according to any one of the prior claims, wherein the closure portion is irradiated in such a manner that a predetermined temperature difference is created between the outer surface of the closure portion and the inner surface of the closure portion.

322. The method according to any one of the prior claims, wherein illuminating the closure portion is to generate a visual indicator.

323. The method according to claim 322, wherein generating the visual indicator includes crystallizing the closure portion.

324. The method according to claim 322 or 323, wherein generating the visual indicator includes changing the color or opacity of the closure portion.

325. The method according to claim 324, wherein the closure portion includes an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period of time.

326. The method according to any one of the prior claims, wherein the closure comprises a multimodal PET material formed of a first PET having a first molecular weight and a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

327. The method according to any one of the prior claims, wherein the closure comprises PET having an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dL / g.

328. The method according to claim 327, comprising molding the closure from PET having an intrinsic viscosity of 0.4 dL / g to 0.8 dL / g.

329. The method according to any one of the prior claims, comprising providing a breakable connection between the closure and the tamper-evident function by perforating, slitting, or cutting a membrane that connects the closure to the closure while the closure is installed on the neck of the container.

330. A system for engaging a closure with the neck of a container, wherein the system is A system comprising: a transport means for transporting one or more containers, each having a closure at its neck, along a transport direction; and a laser assembly that, when the containers are transported along the transport direction, can be operated to irradiate the closures, or a portion of each closure, with a substantially planar laser beam to engage the closures with the container necks.

331. The system according to claim 330, wherein the transport means is operable to rotate the closure and the container neck while the closure portion is illuminated by the substantially planar laser beam.

332. The system according to claim 330 or 331, comprising one or more optical instruments for changing one or more characteristics of a laser emitted from a light source, and for providing, changing, or redirecting the substantially planar laser beam.

333. The system according to claim 332, wherein the one or more optical instruments include a rotating polygonal mirror for diffusing the laser emitted by the light source.

334. The system according to claim 332, wherein the one or more optical instruments include free-form mirrors for diffusing the laser emitted by the light source.

335. The system according to any one of claims 332 to 334, wherein the one or more optical instruments comprises one or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure from the light source for reflecting at least a portion of the substantially planar laser beam moving around or between the closure and returning it to the closure.

336. The system according to claim 335, wherein, with respect to the light source, one or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure have a series of alternating peaks and troughs.

337. The system according to claim 336, wherein at least some of the series of peaks and troughs are substantially identical.

338. The system according to claim 336, wherein at least some of the series of peaks and troughs are of different widths.

339. The system according to claim 337 or 338, wherein each peak comprises a pair of substantially flat or planar opposing flanks.

340. The system according to claim 335, wherein one or more mirrors on the opposite side of the closure with respect to the light source are concave mirrors which may be associated with each closure.

341. The system according to claim 340, wherein the concave mirror moves together with the closure along the transport direction.

342. The system according to any one of claims 332 to 341, wherein the one or more optical instruments comprises a scanning lens for providing the substantially planar laser beam at a substantially planar focal point along the transport direction.

343. The system according to any one of claims 330 to 342, wherein the transport means comprises rails for supporting radial support flanges of the container neck, and a pair of conveyors that engage with the opposite side of the container body hanging down from the container neck to transport the container along the transport direction and rotate the container and closure as it is transported along the transport direction.

344. The system according to claim 343, wherein the first conveyor is positioned further away from the rail than the second conveyor in order to engage the opposite side of the container body in a different axial direction.

345. The system according to any one of claims 330 to 344, wherein the substantially planar laser beam is oriented along the transport direction.

346. The system according to any one of claims 330 to 345, wherein the laser assembly is configured to irradiate the closure portion such that a predetermined temperature difference is created between the outer surface of the closure portion and the inner surface of the closure portion.

347. The system according to any one of claims 330 to 346, comprising a means for drilling, slitting, or cutting a membrane connecting the closure to the closure, thereby providing a destructible connection between them, while the closure is installed on the neck of the container.

348. A closure comprising a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material having an intrinsic viscosity of less than 0.8 dL / g, and comprising an engaging portion that is adapted to be reshaped upon laser irradiation.

349. The closure according to claim 348, wherein the PET has an intrinsic viscosity of 0.3 dL / g to 0.7 dL / g.

350. The thermoplastic closure according to claim 348 or 349, wherein the PET comprises a multimodal PET material formed of a first PET having a first molecular weight and a second PET having a second molecular weight greater than the first molecular weight.

351. The closure according to any one of claims 348 to 350, wherein the engaging portion is configured to clear the flange of the container neck when the closure is positioned across the container neck, but to engage the flange when the closure is removed from the container neck after the engaging portion has been irradiated with a laser, and comprises a substantially cylindrical interlocking surface.

352. A light source according to any one of claims 348 to 351, comprising a top wall and a cylindrical skirt hanging down from the top wall, wherein the engaging portion comprises an annular tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt.

353. A closure comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall, and an annular tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt, which is adapted to be reshaped when irradiated with a laser, The closure is formed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material, and the tamper-evident band has a substantially cylindrical interlocking surface configured to clear the flange of the container neck when the closure is positioned across the container neck, but to engage the flange when the closure is removed from the container neck after the engaging portion has been irradiated with a laser.

354. The closure according to claim 352 or 353, wherein the tamper-evident band has substantially no residual hoop stress.

355. A closure comprising a top wall, a cylindrical skirt hanging from the top wall, and a tamper-evident band connected to the cylindrical skirt, comprising polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material, The tamper-evident band is a closure that has virtually no residual hoop stress and is adapted to reshape upon laser irradiation.

356. The tamper-evident band comprises a free edge configured to deform, shrink, or curl radially when irradiated with a laser, forming a radial lip for engaging with the flange of the container neck, according to any one of claims 352 to 355.

357. The tamper-evident band comprises a substantially cylindrical inner surface lacking an engaging function, according to any one of claims 352 to 356.

358. The tamper-evident band has a substantially constant wall thickness of 0.3 mm to 0.8 mm, according to any one of claims 352 to 357.

359. The closure according to any one of claims 352 to 358, wherein the tamper-evident band has a substantially constant radial wall thickness of 10% to 25% of its axial length.

360. The closure according to any one of claims 352 to 359, wherein the tamper-evident band has a substantially constant radial wall thickness of 12% to 23% of its axial length.

361. The closure according to any one of claims 352 to 360, wherein the tamper-evident band has a substantially constant radial wall thickness of 14% to 21% of its axial length.

362. The closure according to any one of claims 352 to 361, wherein at least a portion of the connection between the tamper-evident band and the cylindrical skirt is breakable.

363. The closure according to any one of claims 352 to 361, wherein the tamper-evident band is connected to the cylindrical skirt by a membrane.

364. The closure according to claim 363, wherein the membrane has a radial wall thickness that is smaller than the radial wall thickness of the tamper-proof function part and the cylindrical skirt.

365. The tamper-evident band comprises one or more hardened portions and one or more weakened portions, according to any one of claims 352 to 364.

366. The tamper-evident band comprises a first annular portion connected to the cylindrical skirt of the closure and a second annular portion hanging down from the first annular portion, wherein the second annular portion has a radial wall thickness smaller than the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion, according to any one of claims 352 to 365.

367. The closure according to claim 366, wherein the radial wall thickness of the second annular portion is at least 20% of the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion.

368. The closure according to claim 366, wherein the radial wall thickness of the second annular portion is 40% to 90% of the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion.

369. The closure according to claim 366, wherein the radial wall thickness of the second annular portion is 50% to 80% of the radial wall thickness of the first annular portion.

370. The closure according to any one of claims 366 to 369, wherein the second annular portion has an axial height that is at least 50% of the axial height of the first annular portion.

371. The closure according to any one of claims 366 to 369, wherein the second annular portion has an axial height that is at least 80% of the axial height of the first annular portion.

372. The closure according to any one of claims 366 to 369, wherein the second annular portion has an axial height at least equal to the axial height of the first annular portion.

373. The closure according to any one of claims 370 to 372, wherein the axial height of the second annular portion is less than three times the axial height of the first annular portion.

374. The closure according to any one of claims 352 to 373, further comprising a tether for connecting the tamper-evident band to the cylindrical skirt.

375. The closure according to claim 374, as dependent on any one of claims 366 to 373, wherein the tether is at least partially defined by the first annular portion.

376. The closure according to any one of claims 348 to 375, wherein the engaging portion includes an additive configured to change color when exposed to a predetermined heat for a predetermined period of time.

377. The closure according to any one of claims 348 to 376, wherein the engaging portion includes a reheating agent for increasing its heat absorption.

378. A molding stack comprising a molding structure defining a cavity for molding a closure according to any one of claims 348 to 377.

379. A molded stack according to claim 378, as dependent on any one of claims 352 to 375, comprising a stripper sleeve that is movable to contact the tamper-evident band of a molded closure when in use, the stripper sleeve having a first surface and a second surface for simultaneously contacting one side and the bottom surface of the tamper-evident band, respectively, during stripping of the molded closure.

380. The molding stack according to claim 379, wherein the stripper sleeve comprises pockets defining the first and second surfaces, the depth of which the pockets are configured such that the upper surface of the stripper sleeve adjacent to the pockets contacts a portion of the rim of the cylindrical skirt during injection in order to transfer the injection force to the rim of the cylindrical skirt.

381. The molding stack according to claim 379 or 380, comprising a cavity insert or assembly having a molded surface defining at least a portion of the outer surface of at least one of the cylindrical skirt and the tamper-evident band, or each of them.

382. A mold comprising a plurality of molding stacks according to any one of claims 378 to 381.

383. A molding system comprising the mold described in claim 382.

384. A packaging system comprising the system according to any one of claims 330 to 347, and one or more of a visual inspection station, a lid attachment station, a labeling station, a coding station, a laser marking station, and / or a box packing station.

385. A parts kit for assembling into a package, the kit is A parts kit comprising a container and a molded closure for sealing the neck opening of the container, wherein the closure includes an engaging portion configured to not engage with the container when the closure is installed across the neck opening of the container, and which is reshaped during use when a laser is shone on the closure installed in the container, thereby configuring the engaging portion to engage with the container.

386. The parts kit according to claim 385, wherein the closure comprises the closure described in any one of claims 348 to 377.

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