Shrink labels and how to use them

Abstract

The shrink label (20) comprises a first end face (23), a second end face (21), and punctures (27, 127, 227) extending along a portion of the shrink label (20) between the first end face (23) and the second end face (21), such that the punctures (27, 127, 227) are spaced a first distance (d1) from the first end face (23) and the punctures (27, 127, 227) are spaced a second distance (d2) from the second end face (21). The punctures (27, 127, 227) are expandable to form openings (29) when the shrink label (20) contracts from an open state to a contracted state.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate generally to shrink labels. [Background technology]

[0002] Priority This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 906,897, entitled “Shrink Label For A Bottle,” filed September 27, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Containers such as bottles typically have a body configured to hold a product, such as a liquid, within an interior space of the body. The body may include an opening for passing and dispensing the product and a cap selectively coupled to the body to cover the opening of the body. In some variations, the cap includes a trigger and a nozzle, allowing a user to squeeze the trigger to dispense the product in the container through the nozzle of the cap. In some other variations, the cap includes a nozzle and a pump to dispense the product in the container through the nozzle of the cap. A shrink label can be applied around a portion of the body and / or cap to display the product name or the like, achieve a decorative effect, and / or provide a tamper-evident covering. In some cases, during shipping or transportation of the container, the cap may come loose from the body, which may allow leakage of the product from the container. Therefore, it may be desirable to provide a shrink label configured to prevent leakage during shipping or transportation.

[0004] Although a variety of shrink labels have been made and used, it is believed that no one prior to the present inventors has made or used the invention as described herein. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] The invention will be better understood from the following description of specific embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numbers identify the same elements and in which:

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a side view of a first exemplary shrink label applied to a container. [Diagram 2] 2 shows a perspective view of the shrink label of FIG. 1 applied to a container. [Diagram 3] 2 illustrates a side view of the shrink label of FIG. 1 in an open configuration before shrinking. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates a side view of a second exemplary shrink label for application to a container in an open configuration prior to shrinkage. [Diagram 5] 13 shows a perspective view of a third exemplary shrink label applied to a container. [Figure 6] 6 shows a side view of the shrink label of FIG. 5 for application to a container in an open configuration before shrinking. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an apparatus for producing a shrink label. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram of the apparatus of FIG. 7 showing a cylindrical strip of material being fed onto the apparatus. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram of the apparatus of FIG. 7, showing a cylindrical strip of material positioned on the apparatus. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram of the apparatus of FIG. 7 showing a tubular strip of material being pierced by a blade to form a shrink label. [Figure 8D] 8 shows a schematic diagram of the apparatus of FIG. 7 showing the blade being retracted from the shrink label. [Figure 8E] 8 shows a schematic diagram of the apparatus of FIG. 7 showing a shrink label being discharged from the apparatus.

[0007] These drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and it is envisioned that various embodiments of the invention may be embodied in a variety of other ways, including those not necessarily shown in the drawings. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention, although it is understood that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] The following description of a specific embodiment of the present invention should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention. Other embodiments, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is, by way of example, one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out the present invention. As will be understood, the present invention is capable of other different and obvious aspects without departing from the present invention in any way. Thus, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

[0009] Furthermore, it is understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein can be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein. Thus, the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described below should not be considered in isolation from one another. Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein can be combined will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0010] For clarity of disclosure, spatial terms such as "lower," "upper," "below," "above," "top," "bottom," "vertical," "vertical," "downward," "side," "inside," "interior," and "exterior" are used herein to refer to relative locations and orientations. Such terms are used hereinafter in connection with the figures shown for clarity and are not intended to limit the innovations described herein.

[0011] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any implementation described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations.

[0012] In some instances, it is desirable for the shrink label to be configured to prevent leakage of the product from the container, such as between the bottle and the cap, and / or from the nozzle during shipping or transport. Thus, the shrink label may be applied to a portion of the cap and / or a portion of the body of the container. The shrink label includes a puncture that is breakable and / or expandable during shrinkage of the shrink label to form an opening, the opening being configured to receive a protrusion of the container and allow the protrusion to extend through the opening of the shrink label when the shrink label is applied to the container. This can maintain the position of the cap relative to the body of the container and / or prevent actuation of the container. In some variations, the shrink label includes a perforation line to aid in removing at least a portion of the shrink label from the container.

[0013] I. Exemplary Shrink Label with Opening 1 and 2, a first exemplary shrink label 20 is shown applied to a container 10 comprising a body 12 and a cap 16 connectable to the body 12. In the illustrated variation, the body 12 is in the form of a bottle, although any other suitable container (e.g., a pitcher, a carton, a can, a jar, etc.) can be used. As shown in FIG. 1, the body 12 defines an interior space for storing a product. An upper end portion of the body 12 includes a neck 14 having an opening (not shown) for providing access to the product within the body 12. In the illustrated variation, the neck 14 is threadably connected to the cap 16. In some other variations, the cap 16 can be connected to the body 12 using other suitable configurations, such as a snap fit, a friction fit, an integral hinge, etc. Cap (16) in the illustrated variation includes a protrusion configured as a trigger (18) and a nozzle (19) such that a user can dispense the product within body (12) through nozzle (19) by actuating trigger (18) to pivot trigger (18) inwardly toward body (12).

[0014] A shrink label (20) is shown positioned around a container (10). The shrink label (20) comprises a tubular material having a bottom surface (21) and a top surface (23). The shrink label (20) may be made from any suitable plastic material that is configured to form to the container (10) by shrinking when heated. As shown in Figures 1-3, the shrink label (20) comprises a lower portion (22) and an upper portion (24) separated by a first perforation line (26). The lower portion (22) of the shrink label (20) thereby extends below the first perforation line (26) to the bottom surface (21) of the shrink label (20) so as to cover at least a portion of the body (12) of the container (10). In the illustrated variation, the lower portion (22) extends to a bottom portion of a side of the body (12) of the container (10). In some other variations, the lower portion (22) may extend further onto the bottom surface of the body (12), or the lower portion (22) may extend less, such that it covers only a portion of the body (12). The upper portion (24) of the shrink label (20) extends above the first perforation line (26) to the top surface (23) of the shrink label (20) so as to cover at least a portion of the cap (16) of the container (10). In the illustrated variation, the upper portion (24) extends to the top surface of the cap (16), such that the upper portion (24) is configured to encase the nozzle (19).

[0015] The first perforation line (26) is positioned to extend circumferentially around the shrink label (20) in the circumferential direction of the tubular material of the shrink label (20). In the illustrated variation, the first perforation line (26) is positioned slightly below the neck portion (14) of the body (12). In some other variations, the first perforation line (26) may be positioned further below the neck portion (14), or at or above the neck portion (14). In the illustrated variation, the first perforation line (26) also extends continuously around the entire circumference of the shrink label (20). In some other variations, the first perforation line (26) extends around only a portion of the shrink label (20). The shrink label (10) further comprises one or more second perforation lines (28) that extend transversely to the first perforation line (26) through the upper portion (24) of the shrink label (20) from the first perforation line (26) to the top surface (23) of the shrink label (20). As shown in Figure 3, the second perforation lines (28) can be oriented at an angle to the first perforation line (26) in the unshrinked, open configuration of the shrink label (20) such that the second perforation lines (28) are oriented substantially vertically after the shrink label (20) is applied to the bottle (10) as shown in Figures 1 and 2. The shrink label (20) is tearable along the first perforation line (26) and the second perforation line (28), which may facilitate a user removing the upper portion (24) and / or the lower portion (22) of the shrink label (20) prior to use of the container (10). It should be noted that the first perforation line (26) and / or the second perforation line (28) are optional.

[0016] 1 and 2, the shrink label 20 further includes an opening 29 extending through the top portion 24 to allow a protrusion, such as a trigger 18, of the container 10 to be exposed through the opening 29 when the shrink label 20 is applied to the container 10. Prior to shrinkage, the shrink label 20 includes a puncture configured to rupture and / or expand to form the opening 29 during shrinkage of the shrink label 20, as shown in FIG. In the illustrated variation, the puncture is configured as a third perforation line (27) that extends generally longitudinally along a portion of the upper portion (24) next to the first perforation line (26) and axially of the tubular material of the shrink label (20), although any other suitable orientation of the perforation line (27) may be used such that the perforation line (27) is configured to tear and / or expand during contraction of the shrink label (20). For example, the puncture in the shrink label (20) may be formed as a perforation line, a slit, a laser cut, an opening, etc. The third perforation line (27) is configured such that the third perforation line (27) is configured to tear more easily than the first perforation line (26) and the second perforation line (28).

[0017] As shown in FIG. 3, the third perforation line (27) extends along only a portion of the upper portion (24) such that the third perforation line (27) is positioned a first distance (d1) above the first perforation line (26) and a second distance (d2) below the upper surface (23) of the shrink label (20). The lengths of the first distance (d1) and the second distance (d2) may be substantially equal, or the first distance (d1) and the second distance (d2) may have different lengths such that one of the first distance (d1) or the second distance (d2) is greater than the other. Thus, the length of the third perforation line (27) generally corresponds to the length of the trigger (18), although any other suitable length may be used, such as a length corresponding to any suitable protrusion of the container (10). Still other suitable configurations for the shrink label (20) will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0018] For example, while one perforation line (27) is shown, any suitable number of perforations (27) may be formed to allow any suitable number of protrusions of the container (10) to be exposed through such perforations (27). In some variations, one or more perforations (26, 27, 28) may be formed in the lower portion (22). In some variations, one or more perforations (26, 27, 28) may be formed to correspond to an aesthetic design on the container (10). Furthermore, while the punctures in the illustrated variations are shown as perforations (27), in some variations, the punctures may be formed as slits (see FIG. 4) and / or cuts (see FIG. 5). In some other variations, the punctures may be formed as openings similar to openings (29) that may further expand during contraction of the shrink label (20).

[0019] To apply the shrink label 20 to the container 10, the container 10 can be positioned within the shrink label 20 in an open configuration as shown in FIG. 3. For example, the shrink label 20 can be configured as a sleeve having an opening (not shown) therethrough for receiving the container 10. With the container 10 positioned within the shrink label 20, at least a portion of the body 12 of the container 10 is aligned with the lower portion 22 of the shrink label 20 and at least a portion of the cap 16 is aligned with the upper portion 24 of the shrink label 20 such that the trigger 18 is aligned with the third perforation line 27. Heat can then be applied to the shrink label 20 such that the shrink label 20 is formed to the container 10, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the shrink label (20) may be heated in a steam tunnel for about 6 to about 8 seconds to a temperature of about 90° C. to about 120° C. It should be noted that the temperature and time for heating the shrink label (20) may vary depending on the materials selected for the shrink label (20).

[0020] Thus, the shrink label 20 can be changed from an expanded state (FIG. 3) toward a contracted state (FIGS. 1 and 2) by application of energy, such as by any one or more of UV light, infrared radiation, hot air, and steam. Instead of or in addition to shrinking, the shrink label 20 can be tightened by mechanical fasteners (e.g., ties or bands). Alternatively, or in addition, the shrink label 20 can be shrunk by humidity changes or by releasing elastic energy, for example, the shrink label 20 as an elastic sleeve can be elastically expanded while placed over a receptacle (expanded state) and then the elastic tension is released (contracted state). This can be done using techniques such as by an expandable hollow shipping mandrel or by radially separable finger members. Thus, the shrink label 20 can be a label, such as any one or more of a stretch label, a shrink label, and a shrink sticker.

[0021] As the shrink label 20 is formed on the container 10, the third perforation line 27 tears and / or expands to form an opening 29 for receiving the trigger 18, and the upper portion 24 of the shrink label 20 envelops the nozzle 19, thereby allowing the trigger 18 of the container 10 to extend through the opening 29. As best shown in FIG. 2, the opening 29 includes a bottom surface 31 positioned below the trigger 18, a top surface 35 positioned above the trigger 18 and below the nozzle 19, and a pair of opposing side surfaces 33 positioned outwardly of the trigger 18. The shrink label 20 thereby maintains the position of the cap 16 relative to the body 12 to sufficiently secure the cap 16 to the body 12. This prevents the cap (16) from rotating and / or loosening relative to the body (12) and prevents product from leaking between the cap (16) and the body (12).

[0022] The opening (29) of the shrink label (20) can also prevent the shrink label (20) from accidentally leaking product during the heat shrink process. For example, if the opening (29) is not present, when the shrink label (20) is applied to the container (10), the compressive force from the shrink label (20) may cause the trigger (18) to pivot and accidentally leak product from the container (10). The opening (29) allows the trigger (18) to extend through the opening (29) to prevent the shrink label (20) from pivoting the trigger (18) and accidentally leaking product. Still other suitable methods for applying the shrink label (20) to the container (10) will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein. For example, in some variations, the third perforation line (27) can be formed after shrinking rather than before, such as by laser cutting.

[0023] The third perforation line (27) ruptures during shrinkage, while the first perforation line (26) and the second perforation line (28) remain intact, as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Thus, to remove the shrink label (20) from the container (10), a user can pull the top surface (23) of the shrink label (20) downward to cause the upper portion (24) to break along the second perforation line (28) until it reaches the first perforation line (26). The upper portion (24) of the shrink label (20) can then be peeled away along the first perforation line (26) to remove at least a portion of the shrink label (20), such as the upper portion (24), from the container (10). At least a portion of the cap (16) is thereby exposed, allowing the product to be dispensed from the container (10) by actuating the trigger (18). Still other suitable configurations and methods for using the shrink label (20) will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. For example, in some variations, the entire shrink label (20) can be removed from the container (10). In these variations, the first perforation line (26) may be omitted from the shrink label (20) and the second perforation line (28) may extend along all or a portion of the length of the shrink label (20). Additionally or alternatively, the shrink label (20) may include a pull tab to aid in removing a portion of the shrink label (20).

[0024] In some variations, a label, product name, and / or other decorative features may be printed on the exterior surface of the shrink label 20. In the variation shown, the opening 29 is configured to receive the trigger 18 of the container 10. Additionally or alternatively, the opening 29 may receive another portion of the container 10, such as a handle and / or a nozzle-type opening. For example, when the handle is not covered, or not completely covered, by the shrink label 20, the handle may be more easily gripped by a user and / or visual indicia may be exposed.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively, the shrink label 20 may be configured as a sleeve including a page for displaying a user manual, for example, for a pharmaceutical product. The sleeve may also display decoration, such as text or a design. The sleeve may have a packaging function. The sleeve may be shrunk only locally, such as for tamper-evident applications. The sleeve may have a single layer or multi-layer (e.g., coextruded) construction. The sleeve may be provided as a full label or as a partial label, i.e., a label covering only a portion of the container, such as a portion of the top and / or a portion of the bottom of the container. The sleeve may have a uniform thickness in the circumferential and / or longitudinal directions.

[0026] II. Exemplary Shrink Label with Slits 4 illustrates a second exemplary shrink label (120) similar to the shrink label (20) described above, except that the shrink label (120) includes a puncture configured as a slit (127) in an open configuration prior to shrinking. The slit (127) is configured to expand during shrinking of the shrink label (120) to form an opening (29). In the illustrated variation, the slit (127) extends generally longitudinally along a portion of the upper portion (24) next to the first perforation line (26), although any other suitable orientation of the slit (127) may be used such that the slit (127) is configured to expand during shrinking of the shrink label (20). In the illustrated variation, slit (127) extends only along a portion of upper portion (24) such that slit (127) is positioned a first distance (d1) above first perforation line (26) and a second distance (d2) below top surface (23) of shrink label (120). The length of slit (127) generally corresponds to the length of trigger (18), although any other suitable length may be used, such as a length corresponding to any suitable protrusion on container (10).

[0027] Thus, when the shrink label 120 is heated and formed around the container 10 as discussed above, the slit 127 expands to form the opening 29 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). This allows the trigger 18 of the container 10 to extend through the opening formed by the slit 127. This may enable the shrink label 120 to prevent accidental leakage through the nozzle 19 and / or relative movement between the cap 16 and the body 12 of the container 10 that may be caused by the shrink label 120 pressing down on the trigger 18 during shrinkage. Still other suitable configurations for the shrink label 120 will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0028] III. Exemplary Shrink Labels with Cutouts 5 and 6 show a third exemplary shrink label (220) similar to the shrink label (20), except that the shrink label (220) includes a puncture configured as a cut (227) in a pre-shrink open configuration. As shown in FIG. 5, the shrink label (220) is configured to be applied to a container (210) having a pump-type cap (216). The illustrated variation of the container (210) includes a body (212) and a cap (216) connectable to the body (212). In the illustrated variation, the body (212) is in the form of a bottle, although any other suitable container (e.g., a pitcher, a carton, a can, a jar, etc.) may be used. The body (212) defines an interior space for storing a product. An upper end portion of the body (212) includes a neck portion (214) having an opening (not shown) for providing access to the product within the body (212). Neck (214), in the illustrated variation, is threadably coupled to cap (216). In some other variations, cap (216) may be coupled to body (212) using other suitable configurations, such as a snap fit, a friction fit, a living hinge, or the like.

[0029] The cap (216) comprises a stationary portion (215) and a pump portion (217). The stationary portion (215) is connectable to the neck (214) of the container (210), and the pump portion (217) is movable relative to the stationary portion (215). The cap (216) further comprises a dispenser (219) in fluid communication with the interior space of the body (212) of the container (210). Thus, the pump portion (217) can be actuated by depressing the pump portion (217) towards the stationary portion (215) to dispense the product in the body (212) through the dispenser (219).

[0030] 5, the shrink label (220) is applied to the cap (216) such that the top surface (223) of the shrink label (220) is positioned on the top portion of the cap (216) on the pump portion (217) and the bottom surface (221) of the shrink label (220) is positioned on the bottom portion of the cap (216) on the stationary portion (215). The shrink label (220) is thereby configured to maintain the position of the pump portion (217) relative to the stationary portion (215) of the cap (216) and prevent the pump portion (217) from being actuated. Although the shrink label (220) is shown as being applied to the cap (216), in some other variations, the shrink label (220) may extend downwardly onto at least a portion of the body (212) of the container (210).

[0031] 5 and 6, the shrink label (220) includes a perforation line (228) that extends substantially longitudinally along the length of the shrink label (220) from the bottom surface (221) to the top surface (223) of the shrink label (220). The shrink label (220) is tearable along the perforation line (228) such that the perforation line (228) can aid a user in removing the shrink label (220) from the container (210). It should be noted that the perforation line (228) is merely optional, such that in some variations at least a portion of the shrink label (220) can be removed from the container (210) by simply tearing the shrink label (220) without the use of the perforation line (228). While the illustrated variation shows one perforation line (228) extending along the length of the shrink label (220) for removing the entire shrink label (220) from the container (210), in some other variations the perforation line (228) extends along only a portion of the shrink label (220) and / or allows only a portion of the shrink label (220) to be removed from the container (210). Still other suitable configurations for the perforation line (228) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. For example, any suitable number of perforation lines (228) can be used in any suitable orientation along the shrink label (220) for removing the shrink label (220) from the container (210).

[0032] Referring to FIG. 5, the shrink label (220) further comprises an opening (229) extending through the shrink label (220) to allow the dispenser (219) of the container (210) to be exposed through the opening (229) when the shrink label (220) is applied to the container (210). Prior to shrinkage, as shown in FIG. 6, the shrink label (220) comprises a puncture configured to rupture and / or expand to form the opening (229) during shrinkage of the shrink label (220). In the illustrated variation, the puncture is configured as a cut (227) having a non-zero width that extends generally longitudinally along a portion of the shrink label (220), although any other suitable orientation for the cut (227) may be used. The cut (227) may be formed by laser cutting to remove a portion of the material of the shrink label (220). Thus, the cut portion (227) is configured to expand during shrinkage of the shrink label (220). As shown in FIG. 6, the cut portion (227) extends along only a portion of the shrink label (220) such that the cut portion (227) is positioned a first distance (d1) above the bottom surface (221) and a second distance (d2) below the top surface (223) of the shrink label (220). The length of the cut portion (227) thereby generally corresponds to the diameter of the dispenser (219), although any other suitable length may be used, such as a length corresponding to any suitable protrusion of the container (210). Still other suitable configurations for the cut portion (227) will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein. For example, in some variations, the cut portion (227) and / or the opening (229) may be formed after shrinkage rather than before shrinkage, such as by laser cutting.

[0033] To apply the shrink label (220) to the container (210), the container (210) can be positioned within an opening (225) defined by the shrink label (220) in an open configuration. For example, at least a portion of the cap (216) is aligned with the shrink label (220) to align the dispenser (219) with the cutout (227). The dispenser (219) can be inserted into the cutout (227) before or after heating. Heat can then be applied to the shrink label (220) as described above such that the shrink label (220) is formed to the container (210) as shown in FIG. 5. As the shrink label (220) is formed to the container (210), the cutout (227) expands to form an opening (229) that is of sufficient size to allow the dispenser (219) to extend through the opening (229). The shrink label (220) thereby maintains the position of the pump portion (217) relative to the stationary portion (215) of the cap (216), thereby preventing accidental actuation of the pump portion (217) and thereby preventing accidental leakage of product from the dispenser (219). In some variations, the shrink label (220) extends around at least a portion of the body (212) to maintain the position of the cap (216) relative to the body (212) and prevent the cap (216) from becoming loose relative to the body (212).

[0034] To remove the shrink label (220) from the container (210), a user can pull the top surface (223) of the shrink label (220) downward to tear the shrink label (220) along the perforation line (228). The shrink label (220) can then be removed from the container (210), thereby exposing at least a portion of the cap (216) to allow dispensing of the product from the container (210) by actuating the pump portion (217). Still other suitable configurations and methods for using the shrink label (220) will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. For example, in some variations, only a portion of the shrink label (220) can be removed, such that another portion of the shrink label (220) remains on the body (212) and / or cap (216) of the container (210).

[0035] IV. Exemplary Apparatus and Method for Producing Shrink Labels FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary apparatus (30) for making shrink labels (20, 120, 220) comprising a mandrel (32) configured to receive a continuous strip of flexible tubular material (36). The term "tubular" is understood to mean having at least an inner circumference and an outer circumference. The tubular material may be foil-like and / or film-like to form the shrink label (20, 120, 220). In some variations, the tubular material may comprise a metal, such as a metal foil. The mandrel (32) is essentially cylindrical and has a generally vertical and stationary longitudinal axis. A top portion (not shown) of the mandrel (32) has a spreading element capable of transforming the strip of flexible tubular material (36) from a flat configuration to an open configuration. A lower portion of the mandrel (32) is shown in FIG. 7 and has a generally circular cross-sectional shape. In some variations, the mandrel (32) may have any one or more of a circular, elliptical, polygonal, and plate-like cross-sectional shape. The strip (36) may be introduced to the mandrel (32) from a roll (not shown), which may be preprepared. The lower portion of the mandrel (32) may be formed from a sleeve shot portion of the mandrel (32).

[0036] The apparatus (30) may include a delivery means (not shown) for feeding the strip (36) through the apparatus (30). The delivery means may comprise one or more first roller pairs engaging the inner and outer surfaces of the strip (36). In this way, the strip (36) may be fed onto the mandrel (32) from the upper end of the mandrel. The delivery means may comprise one or more second roller pairs engaging the inner and outer surfaces of the strip (36) at a position on the mandrel (32) lower than the first roller pair. In this way, a sleeve cut from the strip (36) may be fed from the lower end of the mandrel (32) to another production station. One or more of the rollers may be driven by an electric motor. One roller of each roller pair may be housed in a recess (not shown) provided in the mandrel (32). In some variations, the mandrel (32) is supported by some of the rollers.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 7, the device (30) includes a blade (40) actuated by a piercing mechanism (not shown) for forming one or more punctures (e.g., perforations, slits, cuts, etc.) of a predetermined length in the shrink label (20, 120, 220). For example, the piercing mechanism moves the blade (40) in a radial direction indicated by a double-headed arrow (42) toward and away from the mandrel (32). In the illustrated version, the movement is linear, but in other versions, the movement may include any one or more of a linear, circular, and / or elliptical movement. For example, the blade (40) may rotate about an axis such that the blade (40) may be a rotating (spinning) blade with a cutting profile eccentric to its axis of rotation. The movement of the blade (40) may be actuated by any one or more of electricity, pneumatics, and hydraulics. For example, the blade (40) may be driven by an electric motor, such as a servo motor, and / or a reciprocating pneumatic actuator. The blade (40) pierces the wall thickness of the shrink label (20, 120, 220) from one side (outside), while the mandrel (32) (opening device) supports the strip (36) from the other side (inside). The blade (40) in the illustrated variant has a triangular profile. The blade profile may alternatively include multiple triangles arranged on a generally vertical line. The apex angle of the triangle may have an angle of about 45 degrees. By providing two or more triangles, such as a sawtooth profile, the stroke of the blade (40) required for a given piercing length can be kept short.

[0038] The mandrel (32) has on its surface a recess (44) for receiving the blade (40). The blade (40) can enter the recess (44), which in the illustrated variant is shaped to correspond to the triangular profile of the blade (40). In other variants, the recess (44) may have other shapes, such as straight and / or circular, and / or the recess (44) may be a through hole. The recess (44) may extend at least partially in a circumferential direction around the mandrel (32). The recess (44) may be configured such that the piercing means (40) does not contact the mandrel (32). The device (30) further comprises, as cutting means, a rotary cutter (46) including one or more blades that can be moved in a radial direction indicated by the double-headed arrow (43) toward and away from the mandrel (32) to circumferentially cut the strip (36) above the blade (40). The rotary cutter (46) is configured to make a circumferential cut around the strip (36). In some other variations, the cutter (46) may be provided as a different type of cutter, such as a flat cutter. The delivery means, the blade (40), and / or the rotary cutter (46) may be configured to cooperate in a timed manner by a control unit (not shown).

[0039] The apparatus (30) optionally includes perforation means (50) for creating the perforation lines (26, 28, 228). The perforation means (50) may comprise a respective perforation blade for each perforation line and / or may comprise a common perforation blade. The perforation means (50) is configured to reciprocally pierce a portion or portions of the strip (36) upstream of the mandrel (32), the direction of reciprocation being indicated by the double-headed arrow (52). The perforation means (50) is therefore configured to pierce the flattened portion of the strip (36). In some variations, the perforation means (50) may be provided downstream of the mandrel (32).

[0040] 8A-8E illustrate a method of making a shrink label (120) using the apparatus (30). Although the apparatus (30) is shown forming a shrink label (120), the apparatus (30) can also be configured to form shrink labels (20, 220), as discussed below and as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. As shown in FIG. 8A, a strip (36) of tubular material is fed onto the mandrel (32) from a top portion of the mandrel (32), for example, by a first pair of rollers of a delivery means. The strip (36) is fed until a free end (33) of a free end portion (34) of the strip (36) reaches a predetermined location along the mandrel (32), such as a bottom end of the mandrel (32) (FIG. 8B). Thus, a region of the strip is held open and / or supported by the mandrel (32), resulting in an open region. At this point the feed is stopped.

[0041] As the strip (36) is fed onto the mandrel (32), the tubular material of the strip (36) is opened from a flattened configuration to an open or tubular configuration, which can be performed by an opening device performed as or in addition to the mandrel (32). The opening device can comprise a guide, such as a plate guide, a guide of variable cross section, or any structural member that supports the inside of the strip (36). Alternatively, or in addition, the opening device can comprise a tunnel or passage aligned in the feed direction and having one or more porous inner surfaces connected to a vacuum, so that when the strip (36) is received by the opening device, the walls of the strip (36) are pulled apart by low air pressure, and the porous surfaces can be stationary or transportable, and again, the openings are formed by moving the inner periphery of the strip (36) apart. At least a portion of the open portion of the strip (36) can be spaced apart from the opening device. Alternatively, or in addition, the strip (36) may be expanded by internal pressure.

[0042] Continuing thereafter, as shown in FIG. 8C, a puncturing step is performed in which the blade (40) punctures the strip (36) into the recesses (44) to form one or more punctures in an area of ​​the strip (36). The punctures may include one or more of a perforation line (27), a slit (127), a cut (227), and / or other suitable punctures configured to rupture and / or expand during contraction of the shrink label (20, 120, 220). The punctures may be formed by removing a portion of the tubular material or by partially removing a portion of the tubular material such that a flap of material remains. The punctures may have a predetermined (e.g., non-zero) width. The strip (36) is punctured at a first distance from its free end (33) such that the longitudinal end portion of the sleeve is not punctured and the puncture is surrounded on all sides by unpunctured material when creating the puncture. For example, in FIG. 8C, the blade (40) is shown as a slit-forming blade having a generally triangular profile for piercing a generally longitudinal slit (127) within the strip (36). In some other variations, the piercing means may comprise a punch having a circular, elliptical, or polygonal (e.g., square or rectangular) cross section. The extent of the slit (127) may be formed corresponding to the extent of the blade (40). In other words, the upper longitudinal extent of the slit (127) may be formed by (or corresponding to) the upper longitudinal extent of the blade (40), and the lower longitudinal extent of the slit (127) may be formed by (or corresponding to) the lower longitudinal extent of the blade (40). In some variations, the device (30) is adapted to create the perforation lines (27) by replacing the slit-forming blade described above with a perforation-forming blade having a plurality of triangular blades. In some other variations, the apparatus (30) is adapted to make the cuts (227) by replacing the slit-forming blades described above with laser cutters. Thus, the piercing means may comprise slit-forming blades, perforation blades, and / or laser cutters extending along the mandrel axis.

[0043] Since the puncture is performed on a portion of the strip 36, which portion is provided on the mandrel 32, the accuracy and reproducibility are improved. Also, the blade 40 is prevented from puncturing the wall of the strip 36 twice, as would be the case if the strip 36 were punctured in a flattened state. The puncture is performed by moving the blade 40 in a plane generally parallel to the axis of the mandrel 32. Thus, the accuracy and reproducibility of the puncture can be further improved.

[0044] The strip (36) is optionally further cut around its circumference during the piercing step shown in FIG. 8. For example, the rotary cutter (46) can be configured to begin and optionally complete the cut before the piercing. It can also be provided that the cutter (46) cuts in a circumferential direction at a portion of the tubular material not present on the mandrel (32), such as upstream or downstream of the mandrel (32). The strip (36) is cut at a second distance from its free end (33), the second distance being greater than the first distance. After the cut, the rotary cutter (46) is retracted. After the piercing, the blade (40) is retracted (see FIG. 8D). The end portion of the strip (36) forms the end portion of the shrink label (20, 120, 220). The free end (33) becomes the open end of the shrink label (20, 120, 220).

[0045] In the illustrated variation, the piercing means is provided on the mandrel (32) below the cutter (46). In some other variations, the piercing means can be provided elsewhere, such as above the cutter (46), or anywhere the flexible tubular material is open (e.g., not flattened). The method can be adapted accordingly, for example, the tubular material can be fed until the portion of the tubular material that corresponds to the end of the shrink label after piercing is aligned with the cutter (46). A cut can then be performed. This cut can thus simultaneously create the top surface (23, 223) of the shrink label (23, 120, 220) and the bottom surface (21, 221) of the next shrink label (20, 120, 220). The tubular material that will become the next shrink label (20, 120, 220) can be pierced during this cut. For example, if the length of strip (36) is the length of shrink label (20, 120, 220), no cutting need be performed. Mandrel (32) can be stationary (e.g., rotationally stationary) during piercing and / or cutting. Strip (36) can be stationary relative to mandrel (32), such as at least rotationally stationary, during piercing. Alternatively, or in addition, at least a portion of the piercing may occur simultaneously with at least a portion of the dispensing.

[0046] The shrink label (20, 120, 220) is then subsequently delivered by a second pair of rollers in the direction of the solid arrow in FIG. 8E so as to leave the mandrel (32) from the bottom end of the mandrel (FIG. 8E). This delivery means may deliver the newly created free end portion (48) of the strip (36) to a predetermined position simultaneously or immediately after the shrink label (20, 120, 220) is transferred from the mandrel (32). In some variations, the shrink label (20, 120, 220) is transferred from the mandrel (32) to a receptacle (not shown in FIGS. 8A-8E) positioned below the mandrel (32). Still other suitable configurations and methods for operating the apparatus (30) will be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0047] For example, the shrink labels (20, 120, 220) can be formed by sequentially cutting the strip (36) at predetermined intervals. Furthermore, a series of containers (10) can be arranged in a linear fashion, with each container (10) being sequentially transported to a common location for receiving a shrink label (20, 120, 220). Each container (10) having a shrink label (20, 120, 220) can be transported to a processing station (not shown) for shrinking, such as a heater for heat shrinking. In this manner, a container assembly is created by performing the method for making the shrink label (20, 120, 220) and then using the shrink label (20, 120, 220) to cover at least a portion of the container (10). Still other suitable methods for making the shrink labels (20, 120, 220) will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0048] V. Working Examples The following examples relate to various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings herein may be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit the scope of any claims that may be presented at any time in this application or in any subsequent application of this application. No disclaimer is intended. The following examples are provided for illustrative purposes only. It is contemplated that the various teachings herein may be configured and applied in numerous other ways. It is also contemplated that in some variations, certain features referred to in the following examples may be omitted. Thus, any aspect or feature referred to below should not be considered conclusive unless later expressly so indicated by the inventors or their successors in title. If any claim is presented in this application or in any subsequent application related to this application that includes additional features beyond those referred to below, those additional features are not presumed to have been added for any reason related to patentability.

[0049] Example 1 1. A shrink label comprising: a tubular material having a first end face and a second end face; and a puncture portion extending along a portion of the tubular material between the first end face and the second end face, whereby the puncture portion is spaced a first distance from the first end face and the puncture portion is spaced a second distance from the second end face, wherein the shrink label is configured to shrink from an open state to a contracted state, and the puncture portion is expandable to form an opening as the shrink label shrinks from the open state to the contracted state.

[0050] Example 2 The shrink label of Example 1, wherein the puncture portion includes one or more of a perforation line, a slit, a cut portion, and an opening.

[0051] Example 3 3. The shrink label of any one or more of embodiments 1 or 2, wherein the puncture is positioned generally longitudinally along the shrink label.

[0052] Example 4 The shrink label of any one or more of Examples 1-3, wherein the shrink label has a longitudinal perforation line extending longitudinally along at least a portion of the shrink label, the perforation line configured to remain intact as the shrink label shrinks from an open state to a contracted state, and the perforation line configured to rupture to separate at least a portion of the shrink label from another portion of the shrink label after the shrink label is in the contracted state.

[0053] Example 5 Any one or more of Examples 1-4, wherein the shrink label comprises a circumferential perforation line extending circumferentially around at least a portion of the shrink label, the perforation line configured to remain intact as the shrink label shrinks from an open state to a contracted state, and the perforation line configured to rupture to separate at least a portion of the shrink label from another portion of the shrink label after the shrink label is in the contracted state.

[0054] Example 6 The shrink label of Example 5, wherein the puncture portion is spaced a distance from the circumferential perforation line.

[0055] Example 7 The shrink label of any one or more of Examples 1-6, wherein the shrink label is applied to a container in a shrunk state, the container having a protrusion, and the opening formed by the puncture is of sufficient size to receive the protrusion of the container through.

[0056] Example 8 The shrink label of Example 7, wherein the container includes a trigger, and the opening formed by the puncture is configured to receive the trigger therethrough to prevent actuation of the trigger.

[0057] Example 9 The shrink label of Example 7, wherein the container is provided with a dispenser, and the opening formed by the puncture is configured to receive the dispenser therethrough to prevent actuation of the dispenser.

[0058] Example 10 Any one or more of Examples 1-9, wherein the shrink label is applied in a shrunk state to a container, the container having a cap having a stationary portion and a pump portion movable relative to the stationary portion, and the shrink label is applied to the cap of the container so as to maintain a position of the pump portion relative to the stationary portion.

[0059] Example 11 Any one or more of the shrink labels of Examples 1-10, wherein the shrink label is applied in a shrunk state to a container, the container having a body and a cap coupled to the body, and the shrink label is applied to at least a portion of the body and at least a portion of the cap so as to maintain a position of the cap relative to the body.

[0060] Example 12 The shrink label of any one or more of Examples 1-11, wherein the shrink label is applied to a container in a shrunken state and at least a portion of the shrink label is removable from the container prior to use of the container.

[0061] Example 13 1. A method of applying a shrink label to a container, the shrink label having a first end, a second end, and a puncture extending along a portion of the shrink label between the first end and the second end, whereby the puncture is spaced a first distance from the first end and the puncture is spaced a second distance from the second end, the method comprising the steps of positioning the shrink label around at least a portion of the container so as to align the puncture on the shrink label with a protrusion on the container, and shrinking the shrink label from an open state to a contracted state to form a shrink label about the container, the puncture expanding to form an opening as the shrink label shrinks from the open state to the contracted state, whereby the opening receives the protrusion on the container through which the shrink label shrinks.

[0062] Example 14 The method of example 13, further comprising removing at least a portion of the shrink label from the container.

[0063] Example 15 The method of example 14, wherein the shrink label comprises a perforation line, and the shrink label is torn along the perforation line when at least a portion of the shrink label is removed from the container.

[0064] Although various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein can be achieved by appropriate modifications by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention. Some of such potential modifications have been mentioned, and other modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the examples, embodiments, geometries, materials, dimensions, proportions, steps, etc. discussed above are illustrative and not required. Thus, it is understood that the scope of the present invention should be considered in light of any claims that may be presented, and is not limited to the details of construction and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings.

Claims

1. A shrink label to be attached to a container having a protrusion, a tubular material having a first end surface and a second end surface; and a puncture extending along a portion of the tubular material between the first end surface and the second end surface, whereby the puncture is spaced a first distance from the first end surface and the puncture is spaced a second distance from the second end surface; The shrink label is configured to shrink from an open state to a contracted state, the protrusion is a trigger or a dispenser; A shrink label, wherein the puncture portion is expandable to form an opening through which the trigger or dispenser is received so as to prevent actuation by the trigger or dispenser when the shrink label shrinks from the open state to the contracted state.

2. 2. The shrink label of claim 1, wherein the shrink label comprises a longitudinal perforation line extending longitudinally along at least a portion of the shrink label, the perforation line configured to remain intact as the shrink label shrinks from the open state to the contracted state, and the perforation line configured to rupture to separate at least a portion of the shrink label from another portion of the shrink label after the shrink label is in the contracted state.

3. 3. The shrink label of claim 1 or 2, wherein the shrink label is applied in the contracted state to a container, the container having a cap having a stationary portion and a pump portion movable relative to the stationary portion, and the shrink label is applied to the cap of the container so as to maintain a position of the pump portion relative to the stationary portion.

4. 1. A method for applying a shrink label to a container, comprising: the shrink label comprises a first end face, a second end face, and a puncture portion extending along a portion of the shrink label between the first end face and the second end face, whereby the puncture portion is spaced a first distance from the first end face and the puncture portion is spaced a second distance from the second end face; the container has a protrusion that is a trigger or dispenser; The method includes positioning the shrink label around at least a portion of the container such that the puncture of the shrink label is aligned with the trigger or the dispenser of the container; and shrinking the shrink label from an open state to a contracted state to form the shrink label about the container; The method, wherein the puncture expands to form an opening as the shrink label shrinks from the open state to the contracted state, whereby the opening receives the trigger or dispenser of the container therethrough so as to prevent actuation by the trigger or dispenser as the shrink label shrinks from the open state to the contracted state.

5. The method of claim 4 further comprising the step of removing at least a portion of the shrink label from the container.

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