Container and container body, and method for manufacturing container and container manufacturing apparatus

Abstract

To provide a container which can smoothly promote circulation type recycling, and is excellent in visibility of an image formed on a container body.SOLUTION: A container has a container body, and an image including a plurality of recesses 12 and non-recesses 13 on the container body. The recess is formed from a plurality of processing parts 47, and the plurality of processing parts are so arranged as to contact or overlap along a first scanning direction. A width of the recess in a second scanning direction orthogonal to the first scanning direction is periodically changed along the first scanning direction, and the recess has a protrusion 48 along the first scanning direction between adjacent processing parts.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1C

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a container and a container body, and a method and an apparatus for manufacturing the container.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, marine pollution caused by plastic waste has been a topic of discussion, and the movement to eliminate pollution caused by plastic waste globally has been active, and the demand for "circular recycling of containers" has been increasing. Here, "circular recycling of containers" means that a recycler converts a separately collected used container into flakes that are the raw materials of the container and manufactures the container again.

[0003] In order to smoothly promote such "circular recycling of containers", it is preferable to thoroughly separate and collect by the material of the container or label, etc. However, the work of peeling the label from the container for separate collection is time-consuming and is one of the constraints for thorough separate collection. In this regard, a technique for providing a container without a label by directly forming an image displaying information such as a name and components on the surface of the container with a carbon dioxide laser is already known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide a container that can smoothly promote circular recycling and has excellent visibility of an image formed on a container body.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] ​The container of the present invention as a means for solving the above problem has a container body and an image including a plurality of recesses and non-recesses arranged between the plurality of recesses in the container body, the recesses being formed by a plurality of processed parts, and the plurality of processed parts are arranged along a first scanning direction. thick The recesses are arranged linearly, and the width of the recesses in a second scanning direction perpendicular to the first scanning direction varies periodically along the first scanning direction, and the recesses are arranged linearly. overlap each other Between the processed portions formed linearly along the second scanning direction, the Along the first scanning direction arranged in a plurality so that the height changes It has a convex portion and is adjacent overlap each other The ratio of the area S1 of the processed portion between a convex portion provided along the first scanning direction between the processed portions and the next convex portion to the sum of the area S1 of the processed portion and the area S2 of the corresponding non-concave portion [(S1 / S1+S2)×100] is 40% or more and 95% or less, and the visibility value expressed by the following formula (1) is 2 or more. Visibility value = b0 L * 0·(1-exp(b1·ΔL * ))···Formula (1) However, in the above formula (1), L * 0 is the brightness of the image, ΔL * represents the difference between the brightness of the image and the brightness of the portion other than the image, b0 is a positive real number, and b1 is a negative real number. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to smoothly promote circulatory recycling and to provide a container with an image that is highly visible. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] (Container) The container of the present invention has a container body and an image including a plurality of concave portions and non-concave portions in the container body. The concave portions are formed from a plurality of processed portions, and the plurality of processed portions are arranged linearly in contact with or overlapping each other along a first scanning direction. The width of the concave portion in a second scanning direction orthogonal to the first scanning direction changes periodically along the first scanning direction, and the concave portion has a convex portion along the first scanning direction between adjacent processed portions.

[0009] In the scanning direction of the laser, there are two directions: the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction, and the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction are orthogonal to each other. The main scanning direction is the direction in which the laser irradiation means moves, and the sub-scanning direction is the direction in which the container body, which is the object of laser processing, moves. The first scanning direction is the main scanning direction in laser processing, and the second scanning direction is the sub-scanning direction in laser processing.

[0010] In conventional processing using a carbon dioxide laser or an infrared wavelength, since the spot diameter of the laser beam cannot be sufficiently reduced, the resolution is significantly reduced, and there is a problem that the font described on the label cannot be drawn. Also, in processing using an ultraviolet wavelength, pulse energy exceeding the processing threshold (determined from the average output and repetition frequency of the laser) is required. For example, in order to obtain high pulse energy, the frequency becomes low. Even if one dot can be processed with one pulse, the productivity greatly depends on the repetition frequency of the laser beam. Also, when the frequency is high, the pulse energy becomes low, so one pulse cannot be used for processing, and multiple pulses are required. As a result, the frequency for forming one dot becomes low, and there is a problem that the productivity cannot be increased.

[0011] In the present invention, there are provided a container body and an image including a plurality of concave portions and non-concave portions on the container body. The concave portions are formed from a plurality of processed portions, and the plurality of processed portions are arranged linearly in contact with or overlapping each other along a first scanning direction. The width of the concave portion in a second scanning direction orthogonal to the first scanning direction varies periodically along the first scanning direction, and convex portions are provided between adjacent processed portions along the first scanning direction. As a result, the width of the concave portion formed by the linearly arranged overlapping processed portions in the second scanning direction (sub-scanning direction) varies periodically (the concave portion has unevenness in the width direction). Therefore, the diffuse reflectance of the image increases and the visibility is improved. In addition, by providing non-concave portions, high productivity can be achieved, and it is possible to prevent deformation of the container body due to heat generation and color change due to deterioration of the material.

[0012] Further, in the present invention, due to the diffusion effect of the plurality of concave portions and non-concave portions, the image becomes turbid and is visually recognized in the region where the image is not formed. Due to the improvement of contrast, the turbid region is visually recognized as whiter. Thereby, even for an image with a large amount of information including fine lines, characters, etc., the image can be visually recognized with high contrast, and a container in which an image with a large amount of information is formed with good visibility can be provided.

[0013] Moreover, since an image can be formed without applying impurities such as ink to the container body, a process of removing impurities in the circulation-type recycling process is unnecessary, and loss of management information due to removing ink as an impurity can also be prevented. Further, by making the image turbid, even when a transparent plastic or transparent glass having transparency to visible light is used as the container body, the image can be visually recognized with good contrast.

[0014] The container of the present invention preferably has a container body and an image including a plurality of concave portions and non-concave portions on the container body, and has a cap for the container.

[0015] <Container body> The container body is not particularly limited in terms of its material, shape, size, structure, color, etc., and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. The material of the container body is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. Examples include resins, glass, etc. Among these, transparent resins or transparent glass are more preferred, and transparent resins are particularly preferred. Examples of the resin of the container body include polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polybutylene adipate / terephthalate (PBAT), polyethylene terephthalate succinate, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), vinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), polyurethane, epoxy, biodegradable polybutylene succinate (PBS), polylactic acid blend (PBAT), starch blend polyester resin, polyethylene terephthalate succinate, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxybutyrate / hydroxyhexanoate (PHBH), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), bio-PET30, bio-polyamide (PA) 610, 410, 510, bio-PA1012, 10T, bio-PA11T, MXD10, bio-polycarbonate, bio-polyurethane, bio-PE, bio-PET100, bio-PA11, bio-PA1010, etc. These can be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these, from the perspective of environmental load, biodegradable resins such as polyvinyl alcohol, polybutylene adipate / terephthalate, and polyethylene terephthalate succinate are preferred.

[0016] The shape of the container body is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. Examples include bottle shape, cylindrical shape, square column shape, box shape, cone shape, etc. Among these, the bottle shape is preferred. The bottle-shaped container body includes a mouth part, a shoulder part connected to the mouth part, a body part connected to the shoulder part, and a bottom part connected to the body part. The size of the container body is not particularly limited and can be appropriately determined according to the use of the container. The structure of the container body is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, it may be a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure.

[0017] Examples of the color of the container body include colorless transparent, colored transparent, and colored opaque. Among these, colorless transparent is preferable.

[0018] <Image> An image including a plurality of concave portions and non-concave portions is formed on the surface of the container body. The image includes, for example, characters, symbols, figures, images, codes, etc. Specifically, it means information such as a name, components, identification number, manufacturer name, manufacturing date and time, expiration date, barcode, QR code (registered trademark), recycling mark, or logo mark.

[0019] The concave portion is formed from a plurality of processed portions, and the plurality of processed portions are arranged in contact with or overlapping each other along the first scanning direction (main scanning direction). It may be dot-shaped or line-shaped. The processed portion is preferably a circular processed portion or an elliptical processed portion in plan view. From the viewpoint of visibility, it is preferable that the concave portion is formed by a plurality of circular processed portions overlapping and arranged linearly along the first scanning direction. The non-concave portion means a flat region of the container body where no concave portion is formed.

[0020] In the present invention, it is preferable that the width in the second scanning direction (sub-scanning direction) orthogonal to the first scanning direction (main scanning direction) of the concave portion changes periodically along the first scanning direction, and the concave portion has a wide portion and a narrow portion alternately repeating along the first scanning direction (the concave portion has irregularities in the width direction). Thereby, in the concave portion composed of a plurality of linearly arranged processed portions, a wide portion and a narrow portion (irregularities in the width direction in the concave portion) are periodically formed in the width direction, so that the diffuse reflectance of the image can be increased and the visibility is improved.

[0021] Further, it is preferable that a convex portion is provided between adjacent processed portions where the concave portion is located, and the convex portions are formed at predetermined intervals along the first scanning direction, and it is preferable that the height of the convex portion changes along the first scanning direction. As a result, in the concave portion formed by a plurality of linearly arranged processed portions, a wide portion and a narrow portion (undulations in the width direction of the concave portion) are periodically formed in the width direction, so that the diffuse reflectance of the image can be increased and the visibility can be improved.

[0022] Here, as shown in FIG. 1A, when a character "A" is formed as an image 11 on the container body 1 and the P1 portion is enlarged, as shown in FIG. 1B, the character "A" as the image 11 includes a concave portion 12 and a non-concave portion 13 in which a plurality of processed portions 47 are in contact with or overlap each other and are linearly arranged along the first scanning direction. That is, as shown in FIG. 1B, the character "A" as the image 11 is formed by the concave portion 12 and the non-concave portion 13 which are an aggregate of linear processed portions 47. Next, FIG. 1C(a) is an enlarged view of the P2 portion of FIG. 1B, and FIG. 1C(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in the concave portion 12 of FIG. 1C(a). The linear concave portion 12 formed by overlapping a plurality of processed portions 47 in the main scanning direction has a width in the second scanning direction (sub-scanning direction) orthogonal to the first scanning direction (main scanning direction) that periodically changes along the first scanning direction, and the concave portion has a wide portion w1 and a narrow portion w2 that alternately repeat along the first scanning direction. The concave portion 12 has a convex portion 48 along the first scanning direction between adjacent processed portions 47. The convex portions 48 are formed at predetermined intervals along the first scanning direction. Further, it is preferable that the height of the convex portion 48 changes along the first scanning direction, and it is more preferable that the height of the convex portion 48 gradually increases along the first scanning direction. FIG. 1D is a photograph of the P1 portion of the character "A" in FIG. 1A after laser processing the character "A" on the container body.

[0023] Further, FIG. 2A is a view showing a concave portion 12 in which the overlapping of adjacent processed portions is increased by changing the pitch of laser irradiation compared to FIG. 1C. A photograph showing the actual processing state at this time is shown in FIG. 2B.

[0024] As shown in FIGS. 1C(a) and 1C(b), the concave portion 12 is formed linearly with a plurality of processed portions 47 overlapping each other, and the concave portion 12 has a convex portion 48 that separates adjacent processed portions 47. By increasing the repetition frequency of the laser beam and overlapping adjacent processed portions, it is possible to form a concave portion that has no unevenness in the width direction. However, by controlling the degree of overlap of adjacent processed portions, it is possible to have unevenness in the width direction of the concave portion and change the height of the convex portion in the first scanning direction (main scanning direction). A linear concave portion without unevenness in the width direction is formed as a V-groove. However, since the concave portion in the present invention has unevenness in the width direction and the height direction, the diffuse reflectance of the image is increased, and the visibility can be improved. The linear concave portion 12 formed by overlapping a plurality of processed portions 47 as shown in FIGS. 1C(a) can be formed, for example, by selecting the scanning speed and the repetition frequency of the laser beam such that the interval between the respective processed portions in the first scanning direction is 80 μm when the diameter in the first scanning direction of one processed portion is 100 μm.

[0025] FIG. 3A is a diagram showing an example of the number "4" in Japanese Patent No. 6517855 according to the comparative example, and FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view at position A in FIG. 3A. In this comparative example, since the number "4" is processed in one stroke using a CW (Continuous Wave) laser, the vertical line 119 formed by the concave portion 117 of the number "4" is a straight line without unevenness in the width direction, and the width in the second scanning direction orthogonal to the first scanning direction of the vertical line 119 does not change periodically along the first scanning direction, and the concave portion does not have a wide portion and a narrow portion repeating alternately along the first scanning direction. Therefore, compared with the present invention shown in FIGS. 1C and 2A, the diffuse reflectance of the image is low, and the visibility is poor.

[0026] Next, the ratio [(S1 / S1 + S2)×100] of the area S1 of the processed portion to the sum of the area S1 of the processed portion and the area S2 of the corresponding non-recessed portion between the convex portions provided along the first scanning direction between adjacent processed portions is preferably 40% or more and 95% or less. Here, when assuming that the processed portion is a circular processed portion in plan view, the processing rate can be obtained as follows. As shown in Fig. 4(a), if the distance between the centers of the processed portions 47 in the first scanning direction (main scanning direction) is defined as the main pitch Ps, and the angle formed by the intersection points P1 and P2 on the circumference of the processed portion 47 formed at the main pitch Ps and the center is defined as θ, it is represented by the following formulas (1) and (2).

[0027] [Number]

[0028] [Number] Therefore, the area S of the hatched portion cut off by the chord P1 - P2 in Fig. 4(a) is represented by the following formula: S = 1 / 2r 2 (θ - sinθ).

[0029] Next, when the processed portions 47 are overlapped in the first scanning direction (main scanning direction), the sub-pitch is defined as the diameter of the processed portion, and the state of being ideally processed by laser processing with a pixel density of 1 dot size is shown in Fig. 4(b), and when the processing rate α = 100%, the area Sd of the processed portion within the rectangular portion S' represented by the dotted line is represented by the following formula: Sd = π·r 2 - 2S.

[0030] Next, if the distance between the processed portions 47 in the second scanning direction (sub-scanning direction) orthogonal to the first scanning direction is defined as the sub-pitch Pf, the processing rate α is represented by the following formula: α = (Sd / Pf·Ps)×100. For the processed portion of the recess shown in Fig. 1C, when the processing diameter is 80μm at a resolution equivalent to 200 dpi (sub-pitch 127μm) and the main pitch is 72μm, the processing rate α is approximately 53%. When the processing rate α in the processed portion of the recess shown in FIG. 2A is at a resolution equivalent to 200 dpi (sub-pitch 127 μm) and the processing diameter is 80 μm, if the main pitch is 40 μm, it is about 60%. Therefore, it is preferable that the processing rate α is 40% or more and 95% or less. When the processing rate is 40% or more and 95% or less, an image excellent in visibility can be provided while maintaining high productivity.

[0031] Next, as shown in FIG. 5B, when a plurality of recesses 12 are formed on the surface of the container body 1 by laser processing or the like and the recesses 12 gather to form an image 11, the diffuse reflectance on the surface of the container body 1 becomes larger than before the laser processing shown in FIG. 5A. That is, as shown in FIG. 5B, it becomes cloudy and the image 11 is formed. The denser the gathering of the plurality of recesses 12, the higher the cloudiness and the easier it is to visually recognize. On the other hand, laser processing takes time and productivity decreases, or deformation of the container body 1 due to heat generation or color change due to material alteration occurs, so it is preferable to gather at a density that does not affect visibility. Also, the visibility of the image 11 is determined not only by the diffuse reflectance due to the plurality of recesses 12 but also by the influence of the transmitted light from the contents 9 accommodated in the container body 1 (FIG. 5C). When the container body 1 is made of a transparent material such as a PET bottle or glass, in particular, as shown in FIG. 5C, the influence of the transmitted light from the contents 9 accommodated in the container body 1 becomes large. Further, when the image 11 is a gathering of a plurality of recesses 12 at a density that does not reduce productivity, it is necessary to consider the influence of the transmitted light of the non-recessed portion 13. As described above, as a result of intensive studies, the present inventor has established an evaluation method for visibility that takes into account all the influences of the processing state and the contents in order to form an image with good visibility including the processing state on the surface of the container body and the contents accommodated in the container body.

[0032] In the present invention, it is preferable that the visibility value represented by the following mathematical formula (1) is 2 or more, and more preferably 5 or more. Visibility value = b0·L * 0·(1 - exp(b1·ΔL * )) ··· Mathematical formula (1) However, in the formula (1), L * 0 represents the brightness of the image, and ΔL * represents the difference between the brightness of the image and the brightness of the part other than the image. b0 is a positive real number, and b1 is a negative real number.

[0033] Hereinafter, a method for evaluating visibility will be described. The method for evaluating visibility is to photograph the container body and measure it from each brightness measured from the visible image and the part other than the image. As a method for photographing the container body, as shown in FIG. 6A, in order to eliminate the reflection on the surface of the container body 1 due to the shape of the container body 1, it is performed in a darkroom 42 environment. In FIG. 6A, 43 is a camera. As shown in FIG. 6B, the light source 41 is arranged at a predetermined angle with a flat light source so that the specular reflection component on the surface of the container body 1 is not photographed. In order to reflect the influence of the contents 9 in the container body 1 on the photographed image, it is preferable to install a pair of white diffusing surfaces 44 on the side surface of the container body 1. Specifically, it is performed under the following photographing conditions. Thereby, an image close to that seen in a general environment can be obtained.

[0034] <Shooting conditions in the visibility evaluation method> · As shown in FIG. 6A, install a camera 43, a sample (container body 1), and a light source 41 in a darkroom · The light source is arranged at a position where it diffuses illumination (a position where the specular reflection component on the processed surface such as diagonally above the sample is not detected by the camera, and the light source position can also be diagonally below or on the side surface, etc.). · Install a white surface on the side of the sample so as to take into account the transmitted light from the surroundings. · The shooting conditions are set as follows so that the reading value of white does not saturate. - Shooting conditions - · Camera: Area scan camera acA3088 - 57μm manufactured by Basler · Lens: Ricoh Lens FL - CC2514 - 2M (F1.4 f25mm 2 / 3”) · Aperture: F1.4 · Exposure time: 20,000 (μs) · Shooting distance: 500mm · Light source: LED tracer

[0035] Measure the brightness of the image and the parts other than the image from the captured image. As shown in FIG. 7, convert the brightness from the output values of the image P and the parts other than the image Q. The output value of the camera depends on the size of the image, etc., but considering the variation, use the average value of an area of several millimeters 2 ~ dozens of millimeters 2 It is preferable to use the average value of an area of the order of. The conversion to brightness is performed by photographing a chart with a known brightness (L * ) in the measurement environment of the container body with a camera, and converting it to brightness as follows from the camera reading value (G signal) and the known brightness.

[0036] -G signal and brightness conversion- · Photograph a color chart (gray chart) with a known brightness and approximate it with an nth-degree polynomial. As an example, convert the G signal to brightness with the following cubic polynomial. L * = Lab_1st×G1 + Lab_2nd×G2 + Lab_3rd×G3 + Lab_const Lab_1st = 0.461535 Lab_2nd = -0.000281 Lab_3rd = 0.000000 Lab_const = 1.211053 Note that FIG. 8 is a graph showing the relationship between the G signal and the brightness converted from the above formula. From FIG. 8, the contribution rate r 2 = 0.997.

[0037] -Subjective evaluation- For samples with different laser processing conditions, as shown below, change the contents contained in the container body and perform a subjective evaluation, rank the samples to be evaluated, and obtain the subjective evaluation points. · Samples: 6 types with different processing conditions · Contents: water, coffee, tea · Subjective evaluation method: Shuffle's paired comparison method · Evaluators: 3 people (the evaluation is performed 2 times each) · First evaluation: water for all samples ·Second evaluation: Water (2 cups), coffee (2 cups), tea (2 cups) ·Third evaluation: Water (1 cup), coffee (3 cups), tea (2 cups) ·Evaluation environment: Office indoor

[0038] The relationship between the obtained subjective evaluation points and the brightness of the image (L * 0), and the difference between the brightness of the image and the brightness of the part other than the image (ΔL * ) is shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. There are samples with poor correlation, such as the areas surrounded by dotted lines in FIGS. 9 and 10. These are samples in which the brightness of the image (L * 0) is extremely low, the brightness difference (ΔL * ) is small, or both of these states. For such samples, in order to obtain a highly correlated mathematical formula, a mathematical formula in which the brightness L * 0 of the image is multiplied by (1 - exp(ΔL * )) was derived. As shown in FIG. 11, since Y = (1 - exp(-x)) approaches Y = 0 as x decreases, the mathematical formula (1) represents the tendency that the visibility deteriorates as the brightness difference (ΔL * ) decreases.

[0039] Therefore, the visibility value is represented by the following mathematical formula (1). Visibility value = b0·L * 0·(1 - exp(b1·ΔL * )) ··· Mathematical formula (1) However, in the mathematical formula (1), L * 0 is the brightness of the image, and ΔL * represents the difference between the brightness of the image and the brightness of the part other than the image. b0 is a positive real number, and it is preferably around 0.2. b1 is a negative real number, and it is preferably around -0.2. The mathematical formula (1) represents the characteristics that the higher the brightness of the image, the higher the visibility, and the visibility disappears when the brightness difference from the part other than the image disappears.

[0040] Here, the visibility value represented by Equation (1) calculated with b0 = 0.195 and b1 = -0.193 has a very high correlation (R 2 = 0.943) with the subjective evaluation points (paired comparison method) when the processing conditions and the contents contained in the container body are changed, as shown in Fig. 12.

[0041] <Subjective Evaluation Method> For samples with images (characters) laser processed under the following conditions, subjective evaluation of the images was performed, and the readability was evaluated on a 5-point scale. The results are shown in Fig. 13. - Evaluation Conditions - · Judges: 30 people · Samples: A total of 10 types with variable laser processing conditions to form 5.5pt characters and variable contents (such as water, tea, etc.) for each sample · Evaluation Environment: General office indoor · Judgment Method: The judgment rank is the following 5 levels, and subjective evaluation by the judge is carried out. [Evaluation Rank] 1: Unreadable 2: Hardly readable 3: Readable 4: Readable well 5: Most readable

[0042] From the results in Fig. 13, since it is a subjective evaluation, there is some variation, but in terms of the average value, when the visibility value is 2 or more, the evaluation rank of the characters is 3 or more, which means they are readable. Also, when the visibility value is 6 or more, it was found that for all judges, the evaluation rank is 5 (most readable).

[0043] Next, the relationship between the ratio of the area of a plurality of concave portions to the area of the image [(area of a plurality of concave portions / area of the image) × 100] (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "processing ratio") and the visibility value was examined. As shown in Fig. 14, in the region where the processing ratio is low, there is a correlation between the processing ratio and the visibility value, and as the processing ratio decreases, the visibility deteriorates. It was found that when the processing ratio is 40% or more, the visibility value is 2 or more, and when the processing ratio is 50% or more, the visibility value is about 6 or more. Therefore, the processing ratio is preferably 40% or more and 95% or less. By setting the processing ratio to 40% or more, it is possible to provide an image with excellent visibility while maintaining high productivity. Furthermore, by setting the processing ratio to 50% or more, it becomes possible to form an image with the highest determination rank in the subjective evaluation of the image.

[0044] <Container cap> The container cap has no particular restrictions on its material, shape, size, structure, color, etc., and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose.

[0045] The material of the container cap has no particular restrictions and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. Examples include resin, glass, metal, ceramics, etc. Among these, resin is preferable from the viewpoint of moldability. As the resin of the container cap, the same resin as that of the main body of the above container can be used. Examples of the color of the container cap include colored opaque and colored transparent. Among these, colored opaque is preferable from the viewpoint of the readability of the image. The shape and size of the container cap have no particular restrictions as long as they can seal (close) the opening of the container body, and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose.

[0046] The structure of the container cap has no particular restrictions and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, it preferably has a first part that separates from the container body when opened and a second part that remains on the container body. On the side surface of the first part, it is preferable that an uneven shape is formed on the surface so that the hand does not slip when opening. On the side surface of the second part, no uneven shape is formed and the surface is preferably flat.

[0047] The container cap is composed of a first part 51 that separates from the container body when opened, as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, and a second part 52 that remains on the container body 1. On the side surface of the first part 51, an uneven shape 53 is formed on the surface so that the hand does not slip during opening. On the side surface of the second part 52, no uneven shape is formed and the surface is flat.

[0048] <First Embodiment of the Cap of the Container> Next, image formation on the container cap 8 will be described. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of an image formed on the container cap 8. As shown in FIG. 16, a one-dimensional barcode 341 as an example of an image is formed on the surface of the container cap 8.

[0049] In the one-dimensional barcode 341 of FIG. 16, the surface of the black container cap 8 is irradiated with a processing laser beam to be whitened, and a linear region other than the whitened region functions as a one-dimensional barcode. Since the container cap 8 is small, it is preferable to form a one-dimensional barcode with a short length such as a shortened code. Also, not only whitening but also denaturing to a color other than white and making it function as a barcode may be possible. Further, the bar portion (linear region) of the barcode may be formed in a portion other than the denatured portion, or the bar portion itself may be formed at the denatured portion.

[0050]

[0051] For example, on the surface of a plain cap that seals a PET bottle, a one-dimensional barcode indicating the type of beverage contained in the PET bottle can be formed on demand for each PET. As a result, without preparing inventory, caps with one-dimensional barcodes formed according to the type of beverage can be obtained at any time. Also, since information can be displayed on the cap with a single material without using a label, adaptability to recycling can also be ensured.Here, embodiments of the container of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components, and redundant explanations may be omitted. Also, the number, position, shape, etc. of the following components are not limited to the present embodiment, and may be the preferred number, position, shape, etc. for implementing the present invention.

[0052] <First Embodiment of the Container> FIG. 17 is a schematic view showing an example of the first embodiment of the container. The container body 1 in FIG. 17 is a cylindrical bottle made of a resin (transparent resin) having transparency to visible light. FIG. 17 shows the container body 1 placed in front of a black screen as the background. The black screen of the background can be seen through the transparent container body 1. Alternatively, it may be considered that a black liquid is contained in the container body 1 and the black liquid in the transparent container body 1 can be seen. As the resin of the container body 1, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is used.

[0053] An image (character) 11 of "Label-less" is formed on the surface of the container body 1. Due to the diffusion of ambient light at the image (character) 11 with respect to the black of the background or the black of the liquid in the container body 1, the image (character) 11 becomes white and turbid and is visually recognized. A set of a plurality of lines constituting the five characters of "Label-less" corresponds to the image (character) 11. Also, the region of the container body 1 where the image (character) 11 is not formed is a non-recessed portion.

[0054] FIG. 18 is a view showing an example of the relationship between the recessed portion 12 and the non-recessed portion 13 formed in the container body 1. 111 in the enlarged view in FIG. 18 is an enlarged view of a part of the image (character) 11. As shown in FIG. 18, an image (character) 11 of "Label-less" is formed on the surface of the container body 1, and as shown in 111 in the enlarged view of FIG. 18, the image (character) 11 is constituted by a plurality of recessed portions (straight lines) 12. In other words, the image (character) 11 is constituted by an aggregate of recessed portions (straight lines) 12. Although the recessed portion (straight line) 12 is shown only in the region corresponding to 111 in the enlarged view of FIG. 18, the entire image (character) 11 is constituted by an aggregate of recessed portions (straight lines) 12.

[0055] The blank area in the aggregate of the recesses (lines) 12 indicates the area where the surface property of the container body has changed. The plurality of recesses (lines) 12 is an example of an aggregate of recesses. The recess (line) 12 is an image smaller than the image (character) 11. More specifically, the recess (line) 12 is an image in which the area of the straight-line portion is smaller than the total area of the plurality of straight-line portions constituting the image (character) 11. Thus, the image (character) 11 is formed including an aggregate of small (fine) recesses (lines) 12.

[0056] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing the cross-sectional shape of A-A in the enlarged view 111 of FIG. 18. The non-recessed portion 13 shows the surface of the container body 1. Further, the recess 12 shows the portion formed by the evaporation of the surface of the container body 1 by the irradiation of the processing laser beam 20 and corresponds to the straight-line portion. 123 is the inner surface of the container body.

[0057] The thickness t indicates the thickness of the container body 1, and the processing depth Hp indicates the depth of the recess 12. The non-processing depth Hb indicates the depth of the non-processed portion.

[0058] Here, the interval between adjacent recesses 12 means the distance between the centers of adjacent recesses 12. The interval P in FIG. 19 indicates the interval between adjacent recesses (lines) 12. Also, the width W indicates the thickness of the recess (line) 12. Since the recesses (lines) 12 in the present embodiment are formed periodically, the interval P also corresponds to the period in which the recesses (lines) 12 are formed.

[0059] Here, the interval P is preferably 0.4 μm or more and 130 μm or less. By setting the interval P to 0.4 μm or more, peripheral light can be diffused without being limited by the wavelength limit of visible light, and the contrast of the image (character) 11 including the plurality of recesses (lines) 12 and the non-recessed portion 13 can be improved. In addition, by setting the interval P to 130 μm or less, the resolution of 200 dpi (dots per inch) can be guaranteed, the recess (straight line) 12 itself can be prevented from being visually recognized, and the image (character) 11 can be visually recognized with high contrast as a pattern with whitened areas. When the interval P is set to 50 μm or less, it is more preferable because the recess itself can be surely prevented from being visually recognized.

[0060] In the above-described embodiment, the preferable numerical values for the interval P were described. However, when the recess has periodicity, the above-described preferable numerical values can also be applied to the period.

[0061] Also, in the enlarged view 111, an aggregate of recesses (straight lines) 12 formed at equal intervals with periodicity was shown. However, the aggregate of recesses is not limited to this. The aggregate of recesses may be constituted by a plurality of recesses (straight lines) 12 formed non-periodically at different intervals, or may be constituted by a plurality of points formed periodically or non-periodically. When the recess is a dot pattern, the image of this dot is made into a pattern smaller than the image of the character 11 or the like.

[0062] Also, in the present embodiment, the image (character) 11 is formed from the non-recess 13 and the recess 12. When forming the recess with such an uneven shape, it is preferable that the depth difference between the non-recess 13 and the recess 12 is 0.4 μm or more. By setting it to 0.4 μm or more, the peripheral light can be diffused without being limited by the wavelength limit of visible light, and the contrast of the image (character) 11 constituted by the plurality of recesses 12 and the non-recesses 13 can be improved.

[0063] Next, FIG. 20 is a diagram showing various examples of the processing depth Hp. FIG. 20(a) is a diagram when the processing depth Hp is shallower than the non-processing depth Hb of the container body 1. More specifically, it is the case where the ratio of the processing depth Hp to the non-processing depth Hb is from 1 or less to 9 or more to 3 to 7. In this case, the rigidity (mechanical strength) of the recess is improved. As an example, when the thickness of the container body 1 is 100 μm to 500 μm, the processing depth Hp is 10 μm.

[0064] Figure 20(b) is a diagram when the machining depth Hp is deeper than the non-machined depth Hb of the container body. More specifically, it is the case where the ratio of the machining depth Hp to the non-machined depth Hb is from 7 to 3 to 9 or more to 1 or less.

[0065] Figure 20(c) is a diagram when the machining depth Hp and the non-machined depth Hb of the container body are about the same. More specifically, it is the case where the ratio of the machining depth Hp to the non-machined depth Hb is from 4 to 6 to 6 to 4.

[0066] Figure 20(d) is a diagram when the machining depth Hp and the non-machined depth Hb of the container body are changed.

[0067] As shown in FIGS. 20(a) to (d), the depth of the machining depth Hp can be adjusted by controlling the light intensity of the laser light emitted from the laser light source 21 by the light intensity control unit 651 in the laser irradiation control unit 65 of the container manufacturing apparatus.

[0068] <Second Embodiment of the Container> In the second embodiment of the container, the image formed on the container body 1 is regarded as an image, and each of the plurality of pixels constituting this image is constituted by a set of recesses. Further, by making the intervals between the recesses different between the pixels, the image as an image can be expressed in a multi-value gradation.

[0069] FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining an example of gradation expression by making the intervals between the recesses different between the pixels, and shows the processed image data 112 of the image corresponding to the image formed on the container body 1. The pixel 1121 shown by the grid in FIG. 21 indicates the pixel constituting the processed image data 112. The processed image data 112 is constituted by a plurality of pixels 1121.

[0070] In the present embodiment, the recesses are in a dot pattern, and each of the plurality of pixels 1121 is constituted by an aggregate of dot data 1122. The dot data 1122 shown in the black background area in the processed image data 112 corresponds to the area where the properties of the container body are changed by the irradiation of the processing laser light 20.

[0071] In addition, in FIG. 21, the distance between adjacent point data 1122 increases as it goes upward in the direction of the illustrated arrow, and the distance between adjacent point data 1122 decreases as it goes downward. The wider the distance between adjacent point data 1122, the lower the diffusibility of peripheral light and the lower the density of the whitened image when a dot pattern is formed on the container body 1. On the other hand, the narrower the distance between adjacent point data 1122, the higher the diffusibility of peripheral light and the higher the density of the whitened image when a dot pattern is formed on the container body 1. In this way, by varying the interval between the recesses among the pixels, the gradation (shading) of the image is expressed.

[0072] Here, in FIG. 22, an example of expressing gradation by the interval of a dot pattern having periodicity is shown, but the gradation expression method is not limited to this. FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining another example of gradation expression by recesses. (a) of FIG. 22 is a diagram showing the processing data of recesses having no periodicity. In (a) of FIG. 22, pixel 180 represents one pixel, and pixel 180 is composed of rectangular dot data arranged aperiodically. The direction of the illustrated arrow indicates the shading of the pixel density, and the higher the number of dot data within pixel 180, the denser the density.

[0073] The intervals Pd1 to Pd4 in (a) of FIG. 22 indicate the intervals between adjacent dot data in various arrangements of dot data within pixel 180, and correspond to the intervals between dot patterns when a dot pattern is formed on the container body 1.

[0074] On the other hand, (b) of FIG. 22 shows a cross-sectional view of a recess formed by a change in the crystallization state. (c) of FIG. 22 is a plan view of (b) of FIG. 22.

[0075] In (b) and (c) of FIG. 22, an example is shown in which the diffusibility of peripheral light by the recesses is changed and the density of the image is changed by changing the crystallization depth D for crystallizing the surface of the container body 1. The deeper the crystallization depth D, the higher the diffusibility of peripheral light and the denser the density of the white of the whitening (whiter).

[0076] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a container body 1a according to a second embodiment of the container. Images 13 and 14 expressed in multi-valued gradations are formed on the container body 1a. Further, an image 15 in which characters are superimposed is formed.

[0077] Each of the images 13, 14, and 15 is composed of a plurality of pixels, and each pixel is composed of an aggregate of dot patterns as recesses. By varying the intervals between adjacent dot patterns for each pixel, gradations are expressed. Each of such images 13, 14, and 15 is an example of an image.

[0078] As described above, in the second embodiment of the container, the image formed on the container body 1 is an image, and each of the plurality of pixels constituting this image is constituted by an aggregate of recesses, and the intervals of the recesses are varied for each pixel. Thereby, by changing the diffusibility for each pixel, the density of the image formed on the container body 1 can be changed for each pixel, and the image can be expressed in multi-valued gradations.

[0079] <The Third Embodiment of the Container> FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining an example of a container body 1b according to a third embodiment of the container. The container body 1b in FIG. 24 is a cylindrical bottle and includes a mouth portion 101, a shoulder portion 102, a body portion 103, and a bottom portion 104. In the third embodiment of this container, by forming an image constituted by an aggregate of recesses on the shoulder portion of the container body 1b including a mouth portion, a shoulder portion connected to the mouth portion, a body portion connected to the shoulder portion, and a bottom portion connected to the body portion, the image is made easier to visually recognize when the container body 1b is viewed from the mouth portion side.

[0080] The mouth portion 101 is a portion of an inlet for introducing a content such as a beverage into the container body 1b. A cap of the container may be provided for plugging the container body 1b so that the content contained in the container body 1b does not spill.

[0081] The shoulder portion 102 is a conical portion that is connected to the mouth portion 101 and has the mouth portion 101 side as the apex angle. The body portion 103 is a cylindrical portion that is connected to the shoulder portion 102 and has an axis along the Y direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. 24 as the cylindrical axis. The shoulder portion 102 is inclined with respect to the cylindrical surface of the body portion 103.

[0082] The bottom portion 104 is the bottom portion of the container body 1b that is connected to the body portion 103. On the shoulder portion 102 of the container body 1b, the characters "Label-free" 16 and the barcode 17 are formed. The characters 16 and the barcode 17 are constituted by an aggregate of recesses.

[0083] FIG. 25 is a view of the container body 1b seen from the mouth portion 101 side. In other words, it is a view of the container body 1b seen from the negative Y direction to the positive Y direction in FIG. 25. As shown in FIG. 25, when the characters 16 and the barcode 17 are formed on the shoulder portion 102, since the shoulder portion 102 is inclined with respect to the body portion 103, when the user (consumer) of the container body 1b views the container body 1b from the mouth portion 101 side, the characters 16 and the barcode 17 are in a state facing the user. Therefore, compared with the case where the characters 16 and the barcode 17 are formed on the body portion 103, the user can easily visually recognize the characters 16 and the barcode 17.

[0084] <Modification Example 1 of the Third Embodiment of the Container> FIG. 26 is a view showing an example of Modification Example 1 of the third embodiment of the container. On the shoulder portion 102 of the container body 1b in FIG. 26, characters 18 which are an image formed by overlapping characters are formed. In the present embodiment, on the shoulder portion 102 of the container body 1b including the mouth portion 101, the shoulder portion 102 connected to the mouth portion 101, the body portion 103 connected to the shoulder portion 102, and the bottom portion 104 connected to the body portion 103, an image constituted by an aggregate of recesses is formed. Thereby, when the container body 1b is viewed from the mouth portion 101 side, the image can be easily visually recognized.

[0085] As a result, for example, even when the container body 1b is stored in a storage case or the like with the bottom 104 facing downward, it becomes easier to visually recognize the information displayed by the image without taking out the container body 1b from the storage case, and the container body 1b or the contents of the container body 1b can be efficiently managed. Examples of storing the container body 1b in a box or the like with the bottom 104 facing downward include cases where the container body 1b is a PET bottle for beverages and a plurality of PET bottles are stored in a storage case. Also, when the bottom of the storage case is transparent or a through-hole is provided at the bottom so that the container body 1b stored in the storage case can be visually recognized from the bottom side of the storage case, an image may be formed on the bottom 104 of the container body 1b.

[0086] <Modification Example 2 of the Third Embodiment of the Container> FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of Modification Example 2 of the third embodiment of the container. FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example in which an image including a plurality of concave portions and non-concave portions is formed on the bottom 104 of the container body 1b. As shown in FIG. 27, the character 19 "label-free" is formed on the bottom 104 as an example of the image. By forming an image on the bottom 104, it becomes easier to visually recognize the information displayed by the image from the bottom side of the storage case without taking out the container body 1b from the storage case, and the container body 1b or the contents of the container body 1b can be efficiently managed.

[0087] <Fourth Embodiment of the Container> FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of the container body 1c according to the fourth embodiment of the container. A barcode, which is an example of an image including a plurality of concave portions and non-concave portions, is formed on the container body 1c.

[0088] Here, when the shoulder portion of the container is configured in a conical shape with the mouth portion side as the apex angle, when the image formed on the shoulder portion is viewed from the mouth portion side, the width of the image may be visually recognized as widening as it moves away from the mouth portion.

[0089] Fig. 28(a) shows a view of a barcode 171’ as an image according to a comparative example formed on the shoulder 102 of the container body 1c, seen from the mouth side. As shown in Fig. 28(a), the rectangular barcode 171’ is visually recognized as spreading as it moves away from the mouth portion 101. As a result, there may be cases where the barcode 171’ cannot be properly read from the mouth portion 101 side.

[0090] Therefore, in the fourth embodiment of the container, a barcode 171 whose width narrows as it moves away from the mouth portion 101 is formed on the shoulder 102. Fig. 28(b) shows an example of such a barcode 171. The negative Y-direction side in Fig. 28(b) corresponds to the mouth portion 101 side, and the barcode 171 narrows in width as it moves away from the mouth portion 101.

[0091] Fig. 28(c) shows a view of the barcode 171 formed on the shoulder 102 of the container body 1c, seen from the mouth portion 101 side. Since the barcode 171 has a pattern in which its width narrows as it moves away from the mouth portion 101, when the barcode 171 is viewed from the mouth portion 101 side, the widening of the width of the barcode 171 is offset as it moves away from the mouth portion 101, and it is correctly visually recognized as a rectangular barcode. It is preferable to optimize the width of the barcode 171 in correspondence with the inclination angle of the shoulder 102 with respect to the body portion 103.

[0092] Thus, in the fourth embodiment of the container, a barcode 171 whose width narrows as it moves away from the mouth portion 101 is formed on the shoulder 102. This prevents the barcode 171 from being visually recognized as spreading as it moves away from the mouth portion 101, and enables the barcode 171 and codes such as QR Code (registered trademark) to be properly read from the mouth portion 101 side. Note that the reading of such codes includes not only the user visually recognizing and reading the code, but also the reading by a reading device such as a barcode reader or a QR Code (registered trademark) reader.

[0093] <Fifth Embodiment of the Container> Fig. 29(a) is a view showing the container body 1 according to the fifth embodiment of the container. In the container body 1 of Fig. 29(a), it is made of a resin or glass (transparent resin or transparent glass) having transparency to visible light and is arranged in front of a white screen as the background. The white screen of the background can be seen through the transparent container body 1. Alternatively, it may be regarded that a white liquid is contained in the transparent container body 1 and the white liquid in the container body 1 can be seen through the transparent container body 1.

[0094] Characters 22a are formed on the surface of the container body 1 in Fig. 29(a). The characters 22a are formed by blackening the surface of the container body 1 by carbonization or the like by irradiating with a processing laser beam. The blackened characters 22a are visually recognized as black against the white of the background or the white of the liquid in the container body 1. In this way, by blackening the surface of the container body 1, an image such as the characters 22a composed of a plurality of concave portions and non-concave portions can also be visually recognized.

[0095] <Modification Example 1 of the Fifth Embodiment of the Container> Fig. 29(b) is a view showing the container body 1 according to Modification Example 1 of the fifth embodiment of the container. In the container body 1 of Fig. 29(b), it is made of a transparent resin or transparent glass and is arranged in front of a black screen as the background. The black screen of the background can be seen through the transparent container body 1. Alternatively, it may be regarded that a black liquid is contained in the transparent container body 1 and the black liquid in the container body 1 can be seen through the transparent container body 1.

[0096] On the surface of the container body 1 in Fig. 29(b), a pattern is formed by irradiating a processing laser beam on the area other than the characters 22b to change the properties of the surface of the container body 1. The area other than the characters 22b corresponds to an image composed of an aggregate of concave portions.

[0097] In the region other than the character 22a, the diffusibility of peripheral light is improved, and the region other than the character 22a is whitened and visually recognized. In the region of the character 22b, the black color of the background screen or the black color of the liquid in the container body 1 is visually recognized. In this way, an image such as the character 22b can also be visually recognized.

[0098] Regarding the contents contained in the container body 1 as well, it is possible to provide a pattern with a large amount of information and good visibility by increasing the contrast of the image with respect to the color of the contents contained in a container having permeability to visible light. For example, when the contents are black, forming a whitened image on the container makes the image easier to visually recognize, and when the contents are white, forming a blackened image on the container makes the image easier to visually recognize.

[0099] <Modification Example 2 of the Fifth Embodiment of the Container> In the above-described fifth embodiment, a bottle such as a PET bottle made of resin was shown as an example of the container, but the container is not limited thereto. A cup or the like made of glass may be used. FIG. 30 is a view showing an example of a cup 1f as a container according to a modification example 2 of the fifth embodiment of the container. As shown in FIG. 30, an image 210 formed of an aggregate of recesses is formed on the cylindrical surface of the cup 1f.

[0100] Further, in the above-described embodiment, an example in which the container body 1 has permeability to visible light and is disposed in front of a black screen or the like with the container body 1 as the background was shown.

[0101] <Sixth Embodiment of the Container> Next, the modification marks on the surface of the container body due to the irradiation of the processing laser light will be described. FIG. 31 is a scanning electron microscope (SEM) photograph of the modification marks. FIG. 31(a) is a perspective view seen from the upper surface direction, and FIG. 31(b) is a perspective view seen from the D-D arrow cross-sectional direction of FIG. 31(a). In FIG. 31(a), modification marks 110 are observed.

[0102] As shown in FIG. 31, the modified mark 110 includes a concave portion 131 and a convex portion 132. The concave portion 131 includes a first inclined surface 1311 and a bottom portion 1312, and is formed in a bowl shape. The concave width Dc represents the width of the concave portion 131, and the depth dp represents the height (length in the Z-axis direction) of the bottom portion 1312 with respect to the surface of the non-patterned region where no pattern is formed.

[0103] Further, the convex portion 132 includes a top portion 1321 and a second inclined surface 1322, and is formed in an annular surface shape. Note that the annular surface refers to a rotating surface obtained by rotating a circumference. The annular width Dr represents the radial width of the annular surface portion of the convex portion 132, and the height h represents the height (length in the Z-axis direction) of the top portion 1321 with respect to the surface of the non-patterned region.

[0104] The modified mark width W1 represents the width of the entire modified mark 110. The modified mark width W1 is, for example, about 100 μm. The first inclined surface 1311 and the second inclined surface 1322 are continuous surfaces. Note that the continuous surface refers to a surface that is made of the same material and is connected without a step.

[0105] As also shown in FIG. 31, minute uneven portions 113 are formed on the surfaces constituting the concave portion 131 and the convex portion 132, and the surfaces are rough. The uneven portions 113 are composed of concave and convex portions having a width smaller than the modified mark width W1 of the modified mark 110, and typically are composed of concave and convex portions having a width of about 1 μm to 10 μm.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 31(a), processing pieces generated when the modified mark 110 is processed are scattered also between adjacent modified marks, and the surface is roughened by these. In the pattern region 13a, the surface roughness is larger than that of the non-patterned region due to the roughness of the surface caused by the uneven portions 113 and the processing pieces.

[0107] (Container) The container of the present invention includes the container of the present invention and the content accommodated in the container. Examples of the content include beverages, powders, gases, etc. When the content is a beverage, it often has a color such as transparent, white, black, brown, or yellow.

[0108] <First Embodiment of the Container> FIG. 32 is a schematic view showing an example of the first embodiment of the container. The container 7 in FIG. 32 includes a container body 1, a cap 8 of the container, and a content 9 such as a liquid beverage accommodated in the container body 1. On the surface of the container body 1, the word "label-free" 11 is formed.

[0109] The content 9 often has a color such as black, brown, or yellow. At the mouth of the container 7, a screw portion is provided for screwing and fixing with the cap 8 of the container. Also, inside the cap 8 of the container, a screw portion is provided for screwing with the screw portion provided at the mouth of the container 7.

[0110] There are the following three modes as the manufacturing method of the container 7. Mode 1: A method for manufacturing a container in which an image is formed on the container body 1, then the content 9 is accommodated, and then it is sealed with the cap 8 of the container. Mode 2: A method for manufacturing a container in which the content 9 is accommodated, then it is sealed with the cap 8 of the container, and an image is formed on the container body 1. Mode 3: A method for manufacturing a container in which an image is formed on the container body 1 while accommodating the content 9, and then it is sealed with the cap 8 of the container.

[0111] (Manufacturing Method and Manufacturing Apparatus of the Container) The manufacturing method of the container of the present invention is a method for manufacturing the container of the present invention, including an irradiation step of irradiating a laser beam on the container body to form an image, preferably including at least one of a rotation step and a movement step, and further including other steps as required. The manufacturing apparatus of the container of the present invention is an apparatus for manufacturing the container of the present invention, having an irradiation means for irradiating a laser beam on the container body to form an image, preferably having at least one of a rotation means and a movement means, and further having other means as required.

[0112] The spot diameter of the laser beam is preferably 1 μm or more and 200 μm or less, more preferably 10 μm or more and 100 μm or less. If the spot diameter becomes smaller than 1 μm, it will be close to the wavelength of visible light, and in that case, light cannot be scattered by the structure processed with that beam spot diameter, and clouding cannot occur. Also, if it becomes larger than 200 μm, the structure can be recognized by the human eye.

[0113] It is preferable to form an image by controlling the intensity of the laser beam. It is preferable to form an image by scanning the laser beam. It is preferable to form an image by independently controlling the intensities of a plurality of laser beams irradiated from a plurality of laser light sources.

[0114] In the method for manufacturing the container of the present invention, while rotating the container body of the object to be drawn, a laser is irradiated to form an image. Regarding the configuration of the apparatus, there are cases where the laser position is fixed and the container side is moved, and cases where the container side is fixed and the laser position is moved. Also, when moving the container body, image formation is performed by synchronous control such as rotating it by a certain angle, performing laser drawing, then rotating it by the same angle again and performing laser drawing again, or in some cases, the container body is rotated at a constant speed and laser drawing is performed. The container holding part may be the mouth, the main body, or the bottom. Note that the container body may be placed vertically, horizontally, or obliquely during processing.

[0115] Note that when the container body passes through a conveyor or the like, it may be marked from one side, or it may be marked simultaneously from a plurality of locations when passing through a conveyor or the like.

[0116] The wavelength of the laser light source is suitable not only for those in the ultraviolet region and the visible light region but also for those in the near-infrared region to the mid-infrared region. Specifically, those in the wavelength range of 1,200 nm or more and 1,500 nm or less are also suitable.

[0117] For example, wavelengths in the near-infrared to mid-infrared regions are suitable because they can respond quickly when whitening due to foaming (thermal denaturation), and it is also easy to array the devices. Wavelengths in the ultraviolet region are suitable because the light intensity of the laser beam can be increased for processing by ablation.

[0118] Also, for each wavelength band, there is a wavelength at which the absorption rate with respect to the container body is significantly higher than the surrounding wavelengths. Utilizing this wavelength is particularly suitable.

[0119] Table 1 shown below shows an example of wavelengths with a significantly high absorption rate for each wavelength band. The right column of Table 1 shows "approximate wavelength band", and the left column shows the wavelengths with a significantly high absorption rate in each wavelength band. The middle column shows the absorption rate of the wavelengths with a significantly high absorption rate.

[0120]

Table 1

[0121] Note that the absorption rate varies depending on the material or thickness of the container body, etc. In Table 1, the case of a container body with a thickness of 0.5 mm made of PET is exemplified. Also, wavelengths with an absorption rate of 20% or more are exemplified.

[0122] By using a laser light source capable of emitting the wavelengths shown in Table 1, the absorption rate of the laser light in the container body can be ensured, and a pattern with good visibility can be formed at high speed. Specific examples of the laser light source include a YAG laser that emits laser light with a wavelength of 1,660 nm.

[0123] Here, embodiments of the manufacturing apparatus for the container of the present invention and the manufacturing method for the container of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components, and redundant descriptions may be omitted. Also, the number, position, shape, etc. of the following components are not limited to the present embodiment, and may be the preferred number, position, shape, etc. for implementing the present invention.

[0124] <First embodiment of container manufacturing device> 33 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a container manufacturing apparatus 100. This container manufacturing apparatus 100 is an apparatus for forming an image including a plurality of recessed and non-recessed portions on the surface of a container body 1.

[0125] As shown in FIG. 33, the container manufacturing apparatus 100 includes a laser irradiation unit 2, a rotation mechanism 3, a holding unit 31, a movement mechanism 4, a dust collection unit 5, and a control unit 6. The container manufacturing apparatus 100 holds a cylindrical container, that is, a container body 1, via the holding unit 31 so that it can rotate around the cylindrical axis 10 of the container body 1. Then, the laser irradiation unit 2 irradiates the container body 1 with laser light to change the surface properties of the container body 1, thereby forming an image including a plurality of recesses and non-recesses on the surface of the container body 1. The surface properties of the container body refer to the properties or state of the material (resin) that constitutes the container body.

[0126] A laser irradiation unit 2 as an example of an irradiation unit scans a laser beam emitted from a laser light source in the Y direction in Fig. 33, and irradiates a processed laser beam 20 as an example of a laser beam toward the container body 1 disposed in the positive Z direction. The laser irradiation unit 2 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 34A.

[0127] The rotation mechanism 3, which is an example of a rotation part, holds the container body 1 via a holding part 31. The holding part 31 is a coupling member connected to the motor shaft of a motor (not shown) which serves as a drive part provided in the rotation mechanism 3, and one end of the holding part 31 is inserted into the opening of the container body 1 to hold the container body 1. Rotation of the motor shaft rotates the holding part 31, and thereby rotates the container body 1 held by the holding part 31 around the cylindrical axis 10.

[0128] The moving mechanism 4, which is an example of a moving part, is a linear stage equipped with a table, and the rotation mechanism 3 is placed on the table of the moving mechanism 4. The moving mechanism 4 moves the table back and forth in the Y direction, thereby moving the rotation mechanism 3, the holding part 31, and the container body 1 together in the Y direction. Note that the moving mechanism 4 in the container manufacturing apparatus 100 may be one that moves continuously, such as a conveyor. The holding of the container body 1 may be by the weight of the container body 1 and the contents themselves, and it may only be placed.

[0129] The dust collecting unit 5 is an air suction device disposed near the portion of the container body 1 where the processing laser beam 20 is irradiated. By collecting the plume and dust generated when forming an image by the irradiation of the processing laser beam 20 by air suction, contamination of the container manufacturing apparatus 100, the container body 1, and the surroundings due to the plume or dust is prevented.

[0130] The control unit 6 is electrically connected to the laser light source 21, the scanning unit 23, the rotation mechanism 3, the moving mechanism 4, and the dust collecting unit 5 via cables or the like, and controls each operation by outputting a control signal.

[0131] Under the control of the control unit 6, the container manufacturing apparatus 100 irradiates the container body 1 with the processing laser beam 20 scanned in the Y direction by the laser irradiation unit 2 while rotating the container body 1 by the rotation mechanism 3. Then, an image is two-dimensionally formed on the surface of the container body 1.

[0132] Here, the scanning region of the processing laser beam 20 in the Y direction by the laser irradiation unit 2 may be limited in range. Therefore, when forming an image in a wider range than the scanning region, the container manufacturing apparatus 100 moves the container body 1 in the Y direction by the moving mechanism 4 to shift the irradiation position of the processing laser beam 20 on the container body 1 in the Y direction. Then, while rotating the container body 1 again by the rotation mechanism 3, the laser irradiation unit 2 scans the processing laser beam 20 in the Y direction to form an image on the surface of the container body 1. Thereby, an image can be formed in a wider region of the container body 1.

[0133] Next, the configuration of the laser irradiation unit 2 will be described. FIG. 34A is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the laser irradiation unit 2. As shown in FIG. 34A, the laser irradiation unit 2 includes a laser light source 21, a beam expander 22, a scanning unit 23, a scanning lens 24, and a synchronization detection unit 25.

[0134] The laser light source 21 is a pulse laser that emits laser light. The laser light source 21 emits laser light with an output (light intensity) suitable for changing the properties of the surface of the container body 1 irradiated with the laser light.

[0135] The laser light source 21 is capable of controlling the on / off of laser light emission, the emission frequency, the light intensity, etc. As an example of the laser light source 21, a laser light source with a wavelength of 532 nm, a laser light pulse width of 16 picoseconds, and an average output of 4.9 W can be used. The diameter (spot diameter) of the laser light in the region where the properties of the surface of the container body 1 are changed is preferably 1 μm or more and 200 μm or less.

[0136] The laser light source 21 may be configured with one laser light source or multiple laser light sources. When multiple laser light sources are used, each laser light source may be independently controlled to be turned on or off, to emit light at a different frequency, and to emit light with a different intensity.

[0137] The diameter of the parallel laser beam emitted from the laser light source 21 is expanded by the beam expander 22 and enters the scanning unit 23 .

[0138] The scanning unit 23 includes a scanning mirror whose reflection angle is changed by a driving unit such as a motor. By changing the reflection angle of the scanning mirror, the incident laser light is scanned in the Y direction. This scanning mirror can be a galvanometer mirror, a polygon mirror, a MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical System) mirror, or the like.

[0139] In the present embodiment, the scanning unit 23 performs one-dimensional scanning in the Y direction with the laser light, but the present invention is not limited to this. The scanning unit 23 may perform two-dimensional scanning in the X and Y directions with the laser light using a scanning mirror that changes the reflection angle in two orthogonal directions.

[0140] However, when irradiating the surface of the cylindrical container body 1 with laser light, two-dimensional scanning in the XY directions causes the spot diameter of the laser light on the surface of the container body 1 to change depending on the scanning in the X direction, so one-dimensional scanning is preferable in such cases.

[0141] The laser light scanned by the scanning unit 23 is irradiated onto the surface of the container body 1 as processing laser light 20. The scanning lens 24 is an fθ lens that keeps the scanning speed of the processing laser light 20 scanned by the scanning unit 23 constant and converges the processing laser light 20 at a predetermined position on the surface of the container body 1. It is preferable that the scanning lens 24 and the container body 1 are arranged so that the beam spot diameter of the processing laser light 20 is minimized in the region where the properties of the surface of the container body 1 are to be changed. Note that the scanning lens 24 may be configured by combining multiple lenses.

[0142] The synchronization detection unit 25 outputs a synchronization detection signal used to synchronize the scanning of the processing laser light 20 with the rotation of the container body 1 by the rotation mechanism 3. The synchronization detection unit 25 includes a photodiode that outputs an electrical signal according to the intensity of the received light, and outputs the electrical signal from the photodiode to the control unit 6 as a synchronization detection signal.

[0143] Although Fig. 34A shows an example of scanning the processing laser light, it is also possible to configure a processing laser light array by providing a large number of processing laser light beams within the range of the printing width, for example, and rotating the container body 1 so that a large number of laser beams scan in one direction over the container body 1. Fig. 34B is a diagram showing an example of this, showing a processing laser light array consisting of a plurality of laser beams parallel to the container body 1.

[0144] Next, a description will be given of the hardware configuration of the control unit 6 included in the container manufacturing apparatus 100. Fig. 35 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the control unit 6. The control unit 6 is constructed by a computer.

[0145] As shown in FIG. 35, the control unit 6 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 501, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 502, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 503, an HD (Hard Disk) 504, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) controller 505, and a display 506. The control unit 6 also includes an external device connection I / F (Interface) 508, a network I / F 509, a data bus 510, a keyboard 511, a pointing device 512, a DVD-RW (Digital Versatile Disk Rewritable) drive 514, and a media I / F 516.

[0146] Among these, the CPU 501 is a processor that controls the overall operation of the control unit 6. The ROM 502 is a memory that stores programs used for driving the CPU 501 such as an IPL (Initial Program Loader).

[0147] The RAM 503 is a memory used as a work area for the CPU 501. The HD 504 is a memory that stores various data such as programs. The HDD controller 505 controls the reading or writing of various data to and from the HD 504 according to the control of the CPU 501.

[0148] The display 506 displays various information such as a cursor, menu, window, characters, or images. The external device connection I / F 508 is an interface for connecting various external devices. The external devices in this case are a laser light source 21, a scanning unit 23, a synchronous detection unit 25, a rotation mechanism 3, a movement mechanism 4, a dust collection unit 5, etc. However, it is also possible to connect other devices such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory or a printer.

[0149] The network I / F 509 is an interface for data communication using a communication network. The bus line 510 is an address bus, a data bus, etc. for electrically connecting each component such as the CPU 501 shown in FIG. 35.

[0150] The keyboard 511 is a type of input means having a plurality of keys for inputting characters, numerical values, various instructions, etc. The pointing device 512 is a type of input means for selecting and executing various instructions, selecting a processing target, moving a cursor, etc.

[0151] The DVD-RW drive 514 controls reading or writing of various data with respect to the DVD-RW 513 as an example of a removable recording medium. Note that it may be not limited to DVD-RW, but may be DVD-R or the like. The media I / F 516 controls reading or writing (storage) of data with respect to a recording medium 515 such as a flash memory.

[0152] Next, the functional configuration of the control unit 6 will be described. FIG. 36 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the control unit 6.

[0153] As shown in FIG. 36, the control unit 6 includes an image data input unit 61, a recess parameter specifying unit 62, a storage unit 63, a processed data generation unit 64, a laser irradiation control unit 65, a laser scanning control unit 66, a container rotation control unit 67, a container movement control unit 68, and a dust collection control unit 69.

[0154] Among these, the functions of the image data input unit 61, the recess parameter specifying unit 62, the processing data generation unit 64, the laser irradiation control unit 65, the laser scanning control unit 66, the container rotation control unit 67, the container movement control unit 68, and the dust collection control unit 69 are all realized by the CPU 501 in FIG. 36 executing a predetermined program and outputting a control signal via the external device connection I / F 508. However, an electronic circuit or an electric circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) may be added to the hardware configuration of the control unit 6, and part or all of the functions of the above-described respective components may be realized by the electronic circuit or the electric circuit. The function of the storage unit 63 is realized by the HD 504 or the like.

[0155] The image data input unit 61 inputs pattern data of an image to be formed on the surface of the container body 1 from an external device such as a PC (Personal Computer) or a scanner. The pattern data of the image is electronic data including information indicating a pattern such as a code, characters, a figure, a photograph, etc., such as a barcode or a QR code (registered trademark), and information indicating the type of the image.

[0156] However, the pattern data of the image is not limited to that input from an external device. The user of the container manufacturing apparatus 100 can also input pattern data of an image generated using the keyboard 511 or the pointing device 512 of the control unit 6.

[0157] The image data input unit 61 outputs the input pattern data of the image to each of the processing data generation unit 64 and the recess parameter specifying unit 62.

[0158] The recess parameter specifying unit 62 specifies processing parameters for forming the recess. As described above, the recess is a line or a point smaller than the image and acts to increase the contrast of the image and improve the visibility.

[0159] The recess processing parameters are information that specifies the type, thickness, and processing depth of the line as the recess, or the spacing or arrangement between adjacent lines in a group of lines, or the type, size, and processing depth of the dot as the recess, or the spacing or arrangement between adjacent dots in a group of dots, etc.

[0160] The line type is information indicating a straight line, a curve, etc. The point type is information indicating the shape of the point, such as a circle, an ellipse, a rectangle, a diamond, etc. In the group of recesses, the recesses may be configured to have periodicity or may be configured non-periodic. However, a periodic configuration is preferable because it simplifies the specification of parameters.

[0161] Processing parameters for recesses suitable for improving visibility corresponding to the type of image, such as characters, codes, figures, or photographs, are determined in advance through experiments and simulations. The storage unit 63 stores a table showing the correspondence between such image types and processing parameters.

[0162] The recess parameter designation unit 62 can acquire and designate recess processing parameters by referring to the storage unit 63 based on the information indicating the type of image input from the image data input unit 61 .

[0163] However, the designation method by the recess parameter designation unit 62 is not limited to the above. The recess parameter designation unit 62 may receive a user instruction via the keyboard 511 or pointing device 512 of the control unit 6, and may acquire the recess processing parameters by referring to the storage unit 63 based on the instruction.

[0164] Furthermore, the recess parameter designation unit 62 may acquire processing parameters for recesses generated by a user of the container manufacturing apparatus 100 using the keyboard 511 or pointing device 512 of the control unit 6.

[0165] The processing data generation unit 64 generates processing data for forming an image composed of an aggregate of recesses based on the pattern data of the image and the processing parameters of the recesses.

[0166] The processing data includes rotation condition data for the rotation mechanism 3 to rotate the container body 1, scanning condition data for the laser irradiation unit 2 to scan the processing laser beam 20, and irradiation condition data for the laser irradiation unit 2 to irradiate the processing laser beam 20 in synchronization with the rotation of the container body 1. Further, it includes movement condition data for the movement mechanism 4 to move the container body 1 in the Y direction and dust collection condition data for the dust collection unit 5 to perform a dust collection operation.

[0167] The processing data generation unit 64 outputs the generated processing data to each of the laser irradiation control unit 65, the laser scanning control unit 66, the container rotation control unit 67, the container movement control unit 68, and the dust collection control unit 69.

[0168] The laser irradiation control unit 65 includes a light intensity control unit 651 and a pulse control unit 652, and controls the irradiation of the processing laser beam 20 from the laser light source 21 to the container body 1 based on the irradiation condition data. Further, the laser irradiation control unit 65 controls the irradiation timing of the processing laser beam 20 to the container body 1 in synchronization with the rotation of the container body 1 by the rotation mechanism 3 based on the synchronization detection signal from the synchronization detection unit 25. Since known techniques such as Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-73894 can be applied to the irradiation timing control using the synchronization detection signal, detailed description is omitted here.

[0169] When the laser light source 21 is composed of a plurality of laser light sources, the laser irradiation control unit 65 performs the above control independently for each of the plurality of laser light sources.

[0170] The light intensity control unit 651 controls the light intensity of the processing laser beam 20, and the pulse control unit 652 controls the pulse width and irradiation timing of the processing laser beam 20.

[0171] Based on the scanning condition data, the laser scanning control unit 66 controls the scanning of the processing laser light 20 by the scanning unit 23. Specifically, it controls the on / off of driving the scanning mirror, controls the driving frequency, and so on.

[0172] Based on the rotation condition data, the container rotation control unit 67 controls the on / off, rotation angle, rotation direction, rotation speed, etc. of the rotation drive of the container body 1 by the rotation mechanism 3. The container rotation control unit 67 may continuously rotate the container body 1 in a predetermined rotation direction, or may rotate (rock) the container body 1 back and forth within a predetermined angle range such as ±90 degrees while switching the rotation direction.

[0173] The container movement control unit 68 controls the on / off, movement direction, movement amount, movement speed, etc. of the movement drive of the container body 1 by the movement mechanism 4 based on the movement condition data.

[0174] The dust collection control unit 69 controls the on / off of dust collection by the dust collection unit 5, the amount of air to be sucked, and the flow velocity, based on the dust collection condition data. Note that a mechanism for moving the dust collection unit 5 may be provided, and the movement of the dust collection unit 5 by the mechanism may be controlled so that the dust collection unit 5 is positioned near the position where the processing laser light 20 is irradiated.

[0175] Next, a description will be given of a manufacturing method using the container manufacturing apparatus 100. Fig. 37 is a flowchart showing an example of a container manufacturing method using the container manufacturing apparatus 100.

[0176] First, in step S51, the image data input unit 61 inputs image pattern data from an external device such as a PC, a scanner, etc. The image data input unit 61 outputs the input image pattern data to the processing data generation unit 64 and the recess parameter designation unit 62, respectively.

[0177] Subsequently, in step S52, the recess parameter specifying unit 62 specifies machining parameters for forming the recess. The recess parameter specifying unit 62 refers to the storage unit 63 and acquires and specifies the machining parameters of the recess based on the information indicating the type of the image input from the image data input unit 61.

[0178] Note that the operations of step S51 and step S52 may be appropriately interchanged in order, or these steps may be executed in parallel.

[0179] Subsequently, in step S53, the machining data generation unit 64 generates machining data for forming an image composed of an aggregate of recesses based on the pattern data of the image and the machining parameters of the recesses. Then, the generated machining data is output to each of the laser irradiation control unit 65, the laser scanning control unit 66, the container rotation control unit 67, the container movement control unit 68, and the dust collection control unit 69.

[0180] Subsequently, in step S54, the laser scanning control unit 66 starts the scanning of the machining laser beam 20 in the Y direction on the scanning unit 23 based on the scanning condition data. In the embodiment, in response to this start of scanning, the scanning unit 23 continuously performs the scanning of the machining laser beam 20 in the Y direction until an instruction to stop is issued.

[0181] Subsequently, in step S55, the container rotation control unit 67 starts the rotational drive of the container body 1 by the rotation mechanism 3 based on the rotation condition data. In the embodiment, in response to this start of rotational drive, the rotation mechanism 3 continuously rotates the container body 1 until an instruction to stop is issued.

[0182] Subsequently, in step S56, the container movement control unit 68 moves the container body 1 to the initial position in the Y direction by the movement mechanism 4 so that the machining laser beam 20 is irradiated to a predetermined position of the container body 1 based on the movement condition data. After the movement to the initial position of the container body 1 is completed, the container movement control unit 68 stops the movement mechanism 4.

[0183] Note that the operations in steps S54 to S56 may be appropriately reordered, or these steps may be executed in parallel.

[0184] Subsequently, in step S57, the laser irradiation control unit 65 starts the irradiation control of the processing laser beam 20 on the container body 1.

[0185] Specifically, the laser irradiation unit 2 scans one line along the Y direction and irradiates the container body 1 with the processing laser beam 20. Then, the rotation mechanism 3 rotates the container body 1 by a predetermined angle around the cylindrical axis 10. After the rotation by the predetermined angle, the laser irradiation unit 2 scans the next one line and irradiates the container body 1 with the processing laser beam 20. Then, the rotation mechanism 3 rotates the container body 1 by a predetermined angle around the cylindrical axis 10. By repeating such operations, images are sequentially formed on the surface of the container body 1.

[0186] Subsequently, in step S58, the laser irradiation control unit 65 determines whether the formation of the image has ended for a predetermined region of the container body 1 in the Y direction.

[0187] If it is determined in step S58 that the process has not ended (step S58, No), the processes after step S56 are repeated again.

[0188] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S58 that the process has ended (step S58, Yes), in step S59, the rotation mechanism 3 stops the rotational drive of the container body 1 in response to the stop instruction from the container rotation control unit 67.

[0189] Subsequently, in step S60, the scanning unit 23 stops the scanning of the processing laser beam 20 in response to the stop instruction from the laser scanning control unit 66. The laser light source 21 stops the irradiation of the processing laser beam 20 in response to the stop instruction from the laser irradiation control unit 65.

[0190] Note that the operations in steps S59 and S60 can be appropriately reordered, and these steps may be performed in parallel.

[0191] In this way, the container manufacturing apparatus 100 can form an image composed of an aggregate of recesses on the surface of the container body 1.

[0192] Next, an example of various data used in the manufacture of the container body 1 will be described. FIG. 38 is a diagram showing an example of pattern data of an image input by the image data input unit 61. As shown in FIG. 38, the pattern data 611 includes character data 612 of the word "label-free", and the character data 612 is an object to be formed on the container body 1 as an image. A set of a plurality of lines constituting the five characters of "label-free" corresponds to the data for the image. Data other than the character data 612 in the pattern data 611 is not an object to be formed on the container body 1.

[0193] The pattern data 611 is provided as an image file such as a bitmap as an example. Further, the header information of the image file providing the pattern data 611 includes information indicating the type of the image. In this example, the type of the image is "character".

[0194] The image data input unit 61 outputs the pattern data 611 including the information indicating "character" to each of the recess parameter specifying unit 62 and the processing data generation unit 64.

[0195] FIG. 39 shows an example of a correspondence table stored in the storage unit 63. The correspondence table 631 shown in FIG. 39 shows the correspondence relationship between the type of image such as characters, codes, figures, or photographs and the processing parameters for the recesses suitable for improving the visibility of the image. This correspondence relationship is determined in advance by experiments or simulations.

[0196] The numerical values shown in the "identification information" column of the correspondence table 631 indicate the information indicating the type of the image, and the information shown in the "type" column indicates the type of the image. Further, the information shown in the "parameter" column indicates the file name in which the processing parameters corresponding to the type of the image are recorded.

[0197] The recess parameter specifying unit 62 reads a file corresponding to the information indicating the type of image with reference to the correspondence table 631 and acquires the processing parameters. In the example of FIG. 39, since the type of image is "character", the recess parameter specifying unit 62 reads the file "para1" corresponding to the identification information "1" indicating "character" to acquire the processing parameters, and outputs them to the processed data generation unit 64.

[0198] FIG. 40 is a diagram showing an example of the processing parameters acquired by the recess parameter specifying unit 62. Parameters are shown in the "parameter" column according to the items in the "item" column of the processing parameters 621.

[0199] FIG. 41 is a diagram showing an example of the processed data generated by the processed data generation unit 64. The character data 642 in the processed data 641 is composed of a plurality of straight line data corresponding to the recesses. The black background area in the processed data 641 corresponds to the area where the properties of the container body 1 are changed by the irradiation of the processing laser beam 20.

[0200] Next, FIG. 42 is a diagram showing an example of the change in the properties of the surface of the container body 1 due to the irradiation of the processing laser beam 20.

[0201] FIG. 42(a) shows the recess 12 formed by evaporating the surface of the container body 1, and FIG. 42(b) shows the recess 12 formed by melting the surface of the container body 1. In the case of FIG. 42(b), the peripheral edge portion 12a of the recess 12 bulges upward compared to FIG. 42(a).

[0202] In this way, by changing the shape of the surface of the container body 1, an image including the recess 12 and the non-recess 13 can be formed on the surface of the container body 1.

[0203] As a method of forming a recess shape by evaporating the surface of the container body 1, for example, a pulsed laser with a wavelength of 355 nm to 1064 nm and a pulse width of 10 fs to 500 nm or less is irradiated. Thereby, the portion irradiated with the laser beam is evaporated, and minute recesses can be formed on the surface.

[0204] The change in the surface properties of the container body 1 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 42. The surface properties of the container body made of a resin material may be changed by yellowing, oxidation reaction, surface modification, etc. of the surface of the container body.

[0205] The laser light source 21 used in the container manufacturing apparatus 100 uses, for example, pulsed lasers with wavelengths of 355 nm, 532 nm, and 1064 nm, and the pulse width is from several tens of femtoseconds to several hundreds of nanoseconds. In other words, short pulsed lasers or ultrashort pulsed lasers in the ultraviolet region or visible light region are used.

[0206] The shorter the wavelength of the laser light source used as the laser light source 21, the smaller the spot diameter of the laser light can be made, which is suitable for forming an image composed of an aggregate of recesses.

[0207] <Second Embodiment of the Container Manufacturing Apparatus> FIG. 43 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a container manufacturing apparatus 100b according to a second embodiment of the container manufacturing apparatus for manufacturing a container body 1b according to a third embodiment of the container. This container manufacturing apparatus 100b holds the container body 1b such that the cylindrical axis 10 of the container body 1b is along the Z direction. Further, the laser irradiation unit 2 is arranged to irradiate the processing laser light 20 toward the shoulder portion 102 of the container body 1b. Due to the configuration of the container manufacturing apparatus 100b, the processing laser light 20 can be scanned facing the shoulder portion 102, making it easier to form an image composed of an aggregate of recesses.

[0208] <Modification Example 1 of the Second Embodiment of the Container Manufacturing Apparatus> FIG. 44 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a container manufacturing apparatus 100d according to a modification example 1 of the second embodiment of the container manufacturing apparatus. This container manufacturing apparatus 100d holds the container body 1 such that the cylindrical axis 10 of the container body 1 is along the Z direction. Further, the laser irradiation unit 2 is arranged to irradiate the processing laser light 20 toward the body portion 103 of the container body 1.

[0209] <Second Modification Example 2 of the Second Embodiment of the Container Manufacturing Apparatus> FIG. 45 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a container manufacturing apparatus 100e according to a second modification example 2 of the second embodiment of the container manufacturing apparatus. This container manufacturing apparatus 100e supports the container body 1 such that the cylindrical axis 10 of the container body 1 is along the Z direction. Further, laser irradiation units 2 are disposed one on each of the positive Y direction side and the negative Y direction side with the container body 1 interposed therebetween, facing the body portion 103 of the container body 1. The two laser irradiation units 2 irradiate the body portion 103 of the container body 1 with processing laser light 20 from both sides of the positive Y direction side and the negative Y direction side.

[0210] With the container manufacturing apparatus 100e, an image composed of an aggregate of recesses can be formed on both the positive Y direction side and the negative Y direction side of the body portion 103 of the container body 1. Therefore, a rotation mechanism for rotating the container body 1 around the cylindrical axis is omitted from the configuration. However, a rotation mechanism may be added to the configuration.

[0211] The moving mechanism 4 may be one that moves continuously, such as a conveyor. The holding of the container body 1 may be by the weight of the container body 1 and the contents themselves, and it may only be placed. The laser irradiation unit is not limited to two and may be configured with three or more.

[0212] <Third Embodiment of the Container Manufacturing Apparatus> FIG. 46 is a diagram showing an example of a container manufacturing apparatus 100e that irradiates laser light of different wavelengths for each location of the container body 1 according to the third embodiment of the container manufacturing apparatus. This container manufacturing apparatus 100e has laser irradiation units 2a, 2b, and 2c. The laser irradiation unit 2a irradiates the first surface (for example, the surface on the -Y direction side in FIG. 46) of the container body 1 with processing laser light 20a of a first wavelength, and the laser irradiation unit 2b irradiates the second surface (for example, the surface on the +Y direction side in FIG. 46) of the container body 1 with processing laser light 20b of a second wavelength. Further, the laser irradiation unit 2c irradiates the surface of the cap 8 of the container of the container body 1 with processing laser light 20c of a third wavelength.

[0213] The laser light sources included in each of the laser irradiation units 2a, 2b, and 2c can emit processing laser lights 20a, 20b, and 20c. The first wavelength, the second wavelength, and the third wavelength are different from each other. However, it is not necessarily required that the wavelengths of all the light sources are different from each other, and the wavelengths of some of the light sources may be equal. The laser irradiation units 2a, 2b, and 2c can irradiate the processing laser lights in parallel, respectively.

[0214] For example, when the material of the cap 8 of the container is different from the material of the container body 1 and the absorption rate of the first wavelength is low compared to the container body 1, the absorption rate of the material of the cap 8 of the container is irradiated with the processing laser light 20b having the second wavelength that is approximately the same as the absorption rate of the first wavelength with respect to the container body 1. Thereby, the speed of forming a pattern on the container body 1 by the processing laser light 20a and the speed of forming a pattern on the cap 8 of the container by the processing laser light 20b can be combined.

[0215] Also, by making the first wavelength and the third wavelength different, for example, a pattern having a different density can be formed on the second surface of the container body 1 by the laser irradiation unit 2c with respect to the pattern formed on the first surface of the container body 1 by the laser irradiation unit 2a.

[0216] <Fourth Embodiment of the Container Manufacturing Apparatus> FIG. 47 is a diagram for explaining an example of temperature control by a container manufacturing apparatus 100f according to a fourth embodiment of the container manufacturing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 47, the container manufacturing apparatus 100f includes an air blower 321 and a control unit 6f.

[0217] The air blower 321 is an air injection device disposed near a portion of the container body 1 where the processing laser light 20 is irradiated. The air blower 321 cools the portion of the container body 1 whose temperature has risen due to the irradiation of the processing laser light 20 by blowing air onto the portion.

[0218] The air blower 321 can switch air injection on and off and change the amount of air injected under the control of the control unit 6f. In addition, by holding the air blower 321 on a holding means such as a robot hand and driving the holding means, the air injection position can be changed to match the irradiation position of the processing laser beam 20.

[0219] Here, the air blower 321 is used as an example of a configuration for cooling the part of the container body 1 whose temperature has risen due to irradiation with the processing laser light 20, but this is not limited to this and any configuration having a cooling function may be applied.

[0220] 48 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the control unit 6f. The control unit 6f has a temperature control unit 70. The temperature control unit 70 also has an ambient temperature control unit 71 and an air blow control unit 72.

[0221] The environmental temperature control unit 71 controls the environmental temperature inside the entire manufacturing apparatus 100f by controlling heating means such as a heater and cooling means such as a heat exchanger.

[0222] The air blow control unit 72 can control the on / off switching of air injection by the air blower 321, control the amount of air injected, and the like.

[0223] <Fifth embodiment of container manufacturing apparatus> 49 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration for irradiating multiple laser beams emitted by an array laser according to a fifth embodiment of the container manufacturing apparatus, where multiple laser beams refer to two or more laser beams.

[0224] 49, the container manufacturing apparatus 100g has a laser irradiation unit 2g and a rotation mechanism 3. The laser irradiation unit 2g has a plurality of semiconductor lasers 351 arranged in an array, and a plurality of condenser lenses 352 provided in one-to-one correspondence with each of the semiconductor lasers 351.

[0225] The laser irradiation unit 2g irradiates the container body 1 with the laser beams emitted from the plurality of semiconductor lasers 351 via the condenser lens 352. The manufacturing apparatus 100g can form a pattern on the surface of the container body 1 by irradiating the laser beams emitted from the respective semiconductor lasers 351 in parallel while rotating the container body 1 by the rotation mechanism 3.

[0226] Note that the laser irradiation unit 2d may be configured to have a plurality of optical fibers corresponding one-to-one to the plurality of semiconductor lasers 351 and irradiate the container body 1 with the laser beams guided by the respective optical fibers.

[0227] FIG. 50 is a diagram illustrating various multi-laser beams emitted from an array laser according to a fifth embodiment of the container manufacturing apparatus. (a) shows an arrangement in one row, (b) shows an arrangement in two rows, (c) shows a two-dimensional staggered arrangement, and (d) shows a two-dimensional rectangular grid arrangement. The container manufacturing apparatus 100g according to the fifth embodiment can irradiate the container body 1 with the multi-laser beams of FIGS. 50(a) to (d).

[0228] In FIG. 50(a), for example, by arranging 254 laser beams, the container body 1 can be irradiated with the laser beams in parallel in a region having a pixel size of 100 μm and a width of 1 inch on the surface.

[0229] For example, a pattern can be formed at high speed with a low-cost configuration by the multi-beam of FIG. 50(a). A pattern can be formed at a higher speed by the multi-beam of FIG. 50(b) as compared with the multi-beam of FIG. 50(a).

[0230] The density (dot density) of the beams on the container body can be increased by the multi-beam of FIG. 50(c). A pattern can be formed at a higher speed by the multi-beam of FIG. 50(d) as compared with FIGS. 50(a) and (b). Further, a two-dimensional pattern can be formed by the multi-beam of FIG. 50(d) without rotating or moving the container body 1.

[0231] Although the embodiment of the container manufacturing apparatus has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment and various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, although the above embodiment shows an example in which an image including a plurality of recesses and non-recesses is formed by a processing laser beam, other processing methods such as cutting are also applicable.

[0232] The present invention includes, for example, the following aspects. <1> a container body; and a pattern including a plurality of recessed and non-recessed portions on the container body; The recess is formed by a plurality of processed portions, and the plurality of processed portions are arranged linearly in contact with or overlapping with each other along a first scanning direction, a width of the recess in a second scanning direction perpendicular to the first scanning direction varies periodically along the first scanning direction; The container is characterized in that the recess has a protrusion along a first scanning direction between the processed portions adjacent to each other. <2> The recessed portion is formed by a plurality of circular processed portions that are overlapped with each other and arranged linearly. <1> It is a container described in <3> The recess has wide portions and narrow portions alternately repeated along the first scanning direction, <1> from <2> The container is any one of the above. <4> the protrusions are formed at predetermined intervals along the first scanning direction; <1> from <3> The container is any one of the above. <5> The ratio of the area S1 of the processed portion to the sum of the area S1 of the processed portion between the convex portion provided along the first scanning direction between the adjacent processed portions and the next convex portion and the area S2 of the corresponding non-concave portion [(S1 / S1+S2)×100] is 40% or more and 95% or less, <1> from <4> The container is any one of the above. <6> The visibility value represented by the following formula (1) is 2 or more. <1> from <5> The container is any one of the above. Visibility value = b0 L * 0·(1-exp(b1·ΔL * ))···Formula (1) However, in the above formula (1), L* 0 is the brightness of the image, ΔL * represents the difference between the brightness of the image and the brightness of the portion other than the image, b0 is a positive real number, and b1 is a negative real number. <7> The aforementioned <1> from <6> A method for producing a container according to any one of the above, This is a method for manufacturing a container, which includes an irradiation step of irradiating a container body with laser light to form an image. <8> The method includes at least one of a rotating step of rotating the container body around an axis and a moving step of moving the container body. <7> 1. A method for manufacturing the container described in claim 1. <9> The spot diameter of the laser light is 1 μm or more and 200 μm or less. <7> from <8> 1. A method for manufacturing a container according to any one of the above. <10> An image is formed by controlling the intensity of the laser light. <7> from <9> 1. A method for manufacturing a container according to any one of the above. <11> An image is formed by scanning the laser light. <7> from <9> 1. A method for manufacturing a container according to any one of the above. <12> An image is formed by independently controlling the intensities of the plurality of laser beams irradiated from the plurality of laser light sources. <7> from <10> 1. A method for manufacturing a container according to any one of the above. <13> The aforementioned <1> from <6> An apparatus for manufacturing a container according to any one of the above, The container manufacturing device is characterized by having an irradiation means for irradiating a container body with laser light to form an image. <14> The container body has at least one of a rotating means for rotating the container body around an axis and a moving means for moving the container body. <13> 1 is a manufacturing apparatus for a container according to the present invention. <15> The aforementioned <1> from <6> and an item contained in the container.

[0233] According to the container described in any one of <1> to <6> above, the method for manufacturing the container described in any one of <7> to <12> above, the manufacturing apparatus for the container described in any one of <13> to <14> above, and the container described in <15> above, various problems in the prior art can be solved, and the object of the present invention can be achieved.

Explanation of Signs

[0234] 1 Container body 2 Laser irradiation unit 3 Rotation mechanism (an example of a rotating part) 4 Movement mechanism (an example of a moving part) 5 Dust collection unit 6 Control unit 7 Container 8 Cap of the container 9 Contained substance 10 Cylindrical shaft 11 Image (character) 12 Concave part (straight line) 13 Non-concave part 20 Processing laser beam 21 Laser light source 22 Beam expander 23 Scanning unit 24 Scanning lens 25 Synchronization detection unit 47 Processing unit 61 Image data input unit 62 Concave part parameter specifying unit 63 Storage unit 64 Processing data generation unit 65 Laser irradiation control unit 66 Laser scanning control unit 67 Container rotation control unit 68 Container movement control unit 69 Dust collection control unit 100 Manufacturing apparatus for the container 101 Mouth part 102 Shoulder part 103 Body part 104 Bottom part P Interval (an example of a period) Pd1, Pd2, Pd3, Pd4 Intervals W Width Hp machining depth Hb non-machining depth t thickness of the container body D crystallization depth

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0235]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Claims

1. It has a container body and an image including a plurality of recesses in the container body and non-recessed portions disposed between the plurality of recesses, the recesses are formed from a plurality of processed portions, and the plurality of processed portions are arranged linearly overlapping along a first scanning direction, the width in a second scanning direction orthogonal to the first scanning direction of the recesses changes periodically along the first scanning direction, the recesses have a plurality of convex portions linearly formed along the second scanning direction between the processed portions where the recesses are adjacent and overlap each other, and the height changes along the first scanning direction, the ratio [(S1 / S1 + S2) × 100] of the area S1 of the processed portion to the sum of the area S1 of the processed portion and the area S2 of the corresponding non-recessed portion between the convex portion provided along the first scanning direction and the next convex portion between adjacent and overlapping processed portions is 40% or more and 95% or less, The container is characterized in that the visibility value represented by the following mathematical formula (1) is 2 or more. Visibility value = b ０ ・ L ＊ ０ ・ (1 - exp(b １ ・ ΔL ＊ )... Equation (1) However, in the above formula (1), L ＊ ０ is the brightness of the image, and ΔL ＊ represents the difference between the brightness of the image and the brightness of the portion other than the image, and b ０ is a positive real number, and b １ is a negative real number.

2. The container according to claim 1, wherein the recesses are formed by a plurality of circular processed portions overlapping each other linearly.

3. The container according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the recesses have wide portions and narrow portions repeating alternately along the first scanning direction.

4. The container according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the convex portions are formed at predetermined intervals along the first scanning direction.

5. A method for manufacturing a container according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by including an irradiation step of irradiating a laser beam onto a container body to form an image.

6. The method for manufacturing a container according to claim 5, including at least one of a rotation step of rotating the container body around an axis and a movement step of moving the container body.

7. The method for manufacturing a container according to any one of claims 5 to 6, wherein the spot diameter of the laser beam is 1 μm or more and 200 μm or less.

8. The method for manufacturing a container according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein an image is formed by controlling the intensity of the laser beam.

9. The method for manufacturing a container according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein an image is formed by scanning the laser beam.

10. The method for manufacturing a container according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein an image is formed by independently controlling the intensities of a plurality of laser beams irradiated from a plurality of laser light sources.

11. An apparatus for manufacturing a container according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by having irradiation means for irradiating a laser beam onto a container body to form an image, the apparatus for manufacturing a container.

12. The apparatus for manufacturing a container according to claim 11, having at least one of rotation means for rotating the container body about an axis and movement means for moving the container body.

13. A container body, characterized by including a container according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and a content accommodated in the container.

Images