Cutting device for cutting capsules

Abstract

A cutting device (1) for forming at least one connecting strap (27, 28) on a capsule (2) for closing a container, for keeping the capsule (2) attached to the container after opening, The cutting device comprises at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') configured to perform at least one cut on the capsule, the at least one cutting edge comprising a cut-start capsule inlet (30a, 30a', 30a", 30a''') and a cut-end capsule outlet (30b, 30b', 30b", 30b''') and at least one transition cutting portion (32, 32', 32", 32''') forming at least one pointed end zone (24a, 24b, 24c, 24d) at the cut-start and / or cut-end, the at least one cutting portion being recessed relative to a remainder of the at least one cutting edge such that it penetrates less into the capsule relative to a remainder of the at least one cutting edge, reducing stress concentrations and preventing breakage in the at least one pointed end zone.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cutting device for cutting or notching plastic capsules or closures or caps, for example of the type used to close containers such as bottles. In particular, the present invention relates to a cutting device configured for cutting so-called tethered capsules or for cutting the side wall of a capsule to obtain a tamperproof band or ring in the side wall and one or more connecting parts, also known as straps or strips, which connect the tamperproof band or ring to another part of the capsule, for example the body of the capsule, i.e. the part of the side wall having the closed end of the capsule.

[0002] In particular, these connecting straps enable the capsule body to remain attached to the tamper-evident ring even after the container has been opened, preventing the capsule from being accidentally dispersed into the environment.

[0003] In such capsules, the various blades are generally spaced apart from one another by one or more levels. Such blades generally have a limited angular extension, i.e., accommodate less than 360° rotation of the capsule. In other words, particularly for creating strap-like connections, the blades make separate and distinct cuts to prevent the capsule body from completely separating from the tamper-evident ring once the capsule is removed from the container to which it is applied. [Background technology]

[0004] Cutting devices are known that have a carousel structure with a number of spindles mounted on the periphery of a carousel, each of which rotates independently, and each of which is arranged to take in a capsule, rotate the capsule independently and move the capsule along a circular advance path through one or more capsule cutting zones, in which at least one cutting device is arranged to cut or notch the side wall of the capsule.

[0005] Known prior art cutting devices include a cutting edge positioned to penetrate the thickness of the capsule to make a cut in the capsule that creates the strap, the cut terminating in a cusp on the capsule.

[0006] The point (on the capsule side) created by known cutting devices has the drawback of being a source of tension concentration due to its sharp shape, which, together with the notch effect due to the abrupt change in cross section between the ring (or equivalently, the body of the capsule) and the strap, generally weakens the mechanical resistance of the strap and the capsule. This means that removing the capsule from the ring induces, starting from the tip of the point, a continuous fracture in the capsule material, damaging the strap until it breaks, resulting in the loss of the connection function between the tamper-evident ring and the capsule body.

[0007] Poor strap resistance results in reduced productivity, increased manufacturing waste and costs, and reduced quality of the capsules produced. Summary of the Invention

[0008] One object of the present invention is to improve known cutting devices for cutting capsules.

[0009] One object is to provide an apparatus that can overcome one or more of the aforementioned limitations and drawbacks of the prior art.

[0010] One object is to provide an alternative device for cutting capsules to those of the prior art.

[0011] One object is to provide a capsule cutting device that limits weakening of the capsule in the cuts, particularly in the cutting zone for creating the straps.

[0012] One advantage is improved cut quality, especially when cutting through tether capsules.

[0013] One advantage of the present invention is that it ensures a cut that limits stress concentrations at the cut, particularly in the cutting zone for producing straps.

[0014] One advantage is that it makes available a cutting device for cutting out the capsules that is structurally simple and inexpensive.

[0015] Another advantage is that there is less waste in the production of the notched capsules.

[0016] These objects and advantages, as well as other objects, are achieved by an apparatus according to one or more of the following claims.

[0017] In one embodiment, the cutting device for forming at least one connecting strap on a capsule closing the container for keeping the capsule attached to the container after opening comprises at least one cutting edge configured to perform at least one cut on the capsule; the capsule comprises a cut start and a cut end suitable for forming at least one portion of the at least one connecting strap that rolls over the at least one cutting edge during the execution of the at least one cut; the at least one cutting edge comprises a capsule inlet where the capsule meets the at least one cutting edge to initiate the at least one cut, and a capsule outlet where the capsule leaves the at least one cutting edge to complete the at least one cut; at least one cutting edge is disposed on the capsule inlet and / or on the capsule outlet and comprises at least one transition cutting portion forming at least one cusp-shaped end zone at the beginning and / or end of the cut; At least one transition cutting portion is recessed relative to the remainder of the at least one cutting edge and is configured to penetrate less than one thickness of the capsule relative to the remainder of the at least one cutting edge to reduce stress concentrations and prevent the induction of fracture in the at least one pointed end zone.

[0018] In one embodiment, a cutting device for forming a capsule for closing a container having at least one connecting strap that maintains the capsule attached to the container after opening includes at least one cutting edge for making at least one cut in the capsule, the at least one cutting edge including a cut-initiating capsule inlet, a cut-terminating capsule outlet, and at least one transition cutting portion disposed on the capsule inlet and / or on the capsule outlet and forming at least one pointed end zone, the at least one cutting portion being recessed relative to the remainder of the at least one cutting edge to provide a step between the at least one transition cutting portion and the remainder of the at least one cutting edge, thereby penetrating the capsule less in the remaining portion of the at least one cutting edge, reducing stress concentrations, and preventing the induction of fracture in the at least one pointed end zone.

[0019] In one embodiment, a cutting device for forming a capsule for closing a container having at least one connecting strap that maintains the capsule attached to the container after opening includes at least one cutting edge for making at least one cut in the capsule, the at least one cutting edge including a cut-initiating capsule inlet, a cut-terminating capsule outlet, and at least one transition cutting portion disposed on the capsule inlet and / or capsule outlet to form at least one pointed end zone, the at least one cutting portion being recessed relative to the remainder of the at least one cutting edge such that the at least one cutting edge penetrates the capsule less than the remainder of the at least one cutting edge, thereby reducing stress concentrations and preventing fractures in the at least one pointed end zone. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] The invention may be better understood and put into practice with reference to the enclosed drawings, which show some embodiments thereof by way of non-limiting examples.

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top view of a cutting edge according to a first embodiment of a capsule cutting device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along plane II shown in FIG. 1, showing a cross-section of the transition cut portion. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a first detailed view of the cutting edge of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a second detail shown at IV in FIG. 1, showing the recesses in the cutting edges to form bridges. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a top view of a cutting edge according to a modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a detailed view of the cutting edge of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a top view of a cutting edge according to a second embodiment of the capsule cutting device. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken through plane VIII shown in FIG. 7, showing a cross-section of the transition cut portion. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a detailed view of the cutting edge of FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a top view of a cutting edge according to a modification of the second embodiment of the capsule cutting device of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a detailed view of the cutting edge of FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a top view of a cutting edge according to a third embodiment of a capsule cutting device. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken through plane XIII shown in FIG. 12, showing a cross-section of the transition cut portion. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a detailed view of the cutting edge of FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a side view of a tether capsule of the type that can be made with a cutting edge configuration according to the present invention, showing the pointed end zone for creating the connecting strap. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a portion of a cutting device according to the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic top view of a cutting device including a carousel, showing the cutting zone in which the cutting device according to the invention is located. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a top view of a cutting edge according to a fourth embodiment of the cap cutting device. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a partial perspective view of the cutting edge of FIG. 18, showing the rounded transition cut portion. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a partial front view of the cutting edge of FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken through plane XXI shown in FIG. 18, showing the transition cut. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram of a cutting edge of a cutting device including at least one cutting edge of FIG. [Figure 23]FIG. 23 is a schematic side view of a tether capsule of the type that can be made with the cutting device of FIG. 22, unrolled at the reference plane, showing the pointed end zone for creating the connecting strap. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] With reference to the above figures, a cutting device 1 is disclosed for cutting or notching caps or capsules 2. The capsules 2 can be used in particular as closures for containers such as bottles.

[0023] In particular, the cutting device 1 is used to cut capsules 2 that are provided with at least one connecting strap, a so-called tether capsule, that is suitable for keeping the capsule 2 attached to the container after the container has been opened.

[0024] Referring to Figure 15, which discloses an illustrative but non-limiting embodiment of a capsule 2 cut by the device 1 according to the present invention, the capsule 2 comprises, inter alia, a cup body with a base wall 23 defining a closed end of the cup body and an open annular end opposite the base wall 23.

[0025] The base wall 23 may in particular be disk-shaped and may include a central region intersected by a longitudinal axis C, which may be transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the base wall 23, and a peripheral region near the periphery of the disk and further away from the longitudinal axis C than the central region. The capsule 2 may in particular include a side wall 21 continuous with the base wall 23, extending from the peripheral region of the base wall 23 around the longitudinal axis C of the capsule 2 to a free end of the side wall 21 that defines the annular end of the cup body.

[0026] The capsule 2 may in particular include a plurality of cuts defining a plurality of breakage promotion lines or lines of weakness. The plurality of cuts may include at least one cut, and each cut may be disposed on the capsule 2 according to an inclination relative to the longitudinal axis C, in particular the at least one cut may form an acute, obtuse, straight or right angle with the longitudinal axis C. The plurality of cuts may define on the capsule 2 a body 20, a tamper-evident ring 22, and at least one connecting strap 27, 28 connecting the body 20 to the tamper-evident ring 22. In particular the body 20 comprises a closed end of the cup body, and the tamper-evident ring 22 comprises an open annular end of the cup body of the capsule 2.

[0027] The at least one cut comprises a cut start or end and a cut end or end that are particularly suitable for forming at least a portion of at least one connecting strap 27, 28.

[0028] At one end of the cut, i.e., at the beginning and / or end of the cut, at least one pointed end zone 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d is formed, which generates a portion of at least one strap 27, 28. In other words, at the end of the cut, a sharp constriction of the portion of the capsule 2 having a pointed or pointed shape occurs due to the penetration of the cutting edge of the device. Due to their shape, the pointed ends (capsule sides) 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d become a source of stress concentration within the material of the capsule 2. This stress can increase, especially when the capsule 2 is subjected to external forces, for example, when the body 20 moves away from the tamper-evident ring 22. This occurs when a user opens a container to which the capsule 2 is applied, or during movement of the capsule 2 through a processing device. The stress concentration can trigger a fracture that begins at the pointed end and continues inside the side wall 21, causing breakage of at least one strap 27, 28 and / or damage to other parts of the capsule 2.

[0029] In the particular embodiment of FIG. 15, two upper pointed end zones 24a, 24b are defined in the cut termination associated with the portion joining the connection straps 27, 28 to the body 20, and two lower pointed end zones 24c, 24d are defined in association with the portion joining the connection straps 27, 28 to the tamper-evident ring 22.

[0030] In the particular embodiment of FIG. 15, the capsule 2 comprises two straps that are inclined in particular opposite to the longitudinal axis C of the capsule 2 .

[0031] The cutting device 1 can cut into tether capsules different from those shown in Fig. 15, and in particular the cutting device 1 according to the invention can cut capsules with a single strap arranged according to any inclination with respect to the longitudinal axis C (opposite the illustrated straps 27, 28), or with two straps arranged with a matching inclination, or with different inclinations. Alternatively, the cutting device 1 can cut the capsule to form three straps, in which case each strap can have any inclination with respect to the longitudinal axis of the capsule.

[0032] The number and specific shape of the straps will depend on the configuration of the cutting edge of the cutting device 1 .

[0033] The cutting device 1 can be attached to a cutting device 100 for cutting capsules 2, in particular tethered capsules.

[0034] 16 and 17, the cutting apparatus 100 includes, inter alia, a carousel structure, i.e., capsule moving carousel 70, that rotates about its axis of rotation R'. Carousel 70 includes a plurality of spindles 71 angularly spaced apart about the periphery of carousel 70, where "angularly" is intended to be with respect to axis of rotation R'. Each spindle 71 is rotatable about its axis of rotation R and is arranged to engage a capsule 2 to rotate the capsule 2 on itself and transport the capsule 2 along an advancing path through the various zones.

[0035] The forward path of capsule 2 extends, at least in part, along a circumferential arc defined by carousel 70 .

[0036] The cutting device 100 may in particular include a feeding zone 40 in which the capsules 2 are fed according to a feeding direction A into the carousel 70. The feeding zone 40 may be arranged downstream of a preceding processing zone (not shown) from which the capsules 2 originate, such as for example a forming zone in which the capsules 2 are formed.

[0037] The cutting device 100 particularly includes a cutting zone 50 arranged downstream of the feeding zone 40, in which the capsules 2 are cut. In the cutting zone 50, one or more cutting devices can be arranged to cut the capsules 2 in order to form cuts and break lines in the capsules 2, and in particular the cutting device 1 is configured to form cuts in the capsules 2 to obtain at least one strap 27, 28.

[0038] The cutting device 100 in particular comprises an unloading zone 60 arranged downstream of the cutting zone 50, in which the capsules 2 are unloaded, for example along an unloading direction S exiting the carousel 70, or are transported to a subsequent processing zone (not shown) of the capsules 2.

[0039] In the particular embodiment of Figure 17, a carousel 70 rotates about an axis R' in a rotational direction indicated by T, and a spindle 71 removes a capsule 2 from the feeding zone 40 and conveys the capsule 2 to the cutting zone 50. In the cutting zone 50, the spindle 71 rotates the capsule 2 while one or more cutting edges of the device 1 contact and penetrate the sidewall 2 of the capsule 2, thereby making multiple cuts in the capsule 2.

[0040] Once the cutting zone 50 has been traversed, the spindle 71 transports the cut capsules 2 to the unloading zone 60 where they leave the carousel 70 for transport to subsequent processing zones.

[0041] 17 shows a counterclockwise direction of rotation T of the carousel 70 and a clockwise direction of rotation of the spindle 71, in further embodiments of the cutting device not shown, the direction of rotation can be reversed relative to that shown, and the feeding zone can be located instead of the unloading zone, or vice versa. The direction of rotation of the carousel 70 defines the direction of movement E of the capsules in the cutting device 1, as disclosed below.

[0042] The cutting device 1 comprises, in particular, at least one plate body 30, 30', 30", 30'" having a rectangular planar shape with two substantially flat faces facing each other. At least one plate body 30, 30', 30", 30'" comprises a semicircular or crescent-shaped peripheral portion, the center of which is arranged on an axis transverse, in particular perpendicular, to one of the two outer faces of the plate body. In particular, this center can be on the axis of rotation R' of the carousel 70.

[0043] The cutting device 1 comprises in particular at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31''' configured to make at least one cut in the capsule 2 while the capsule rolls over the at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31'''. The at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31''' can be arranged in a peripheral portion of the at least one plate-like body 30, 30', 30", 30'''.

[0044] The at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31''' in particular comprises a capsule entrance 30a, 30a', 30a", 30a''', where the capsule 2 meets the at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31''' to initiate the at least one cut. In other words, the capsule entrance 30a, 30a', 30a", 30a"'' is positioned to form a start cut in the capsule 2.

[0045] The at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31''' in particular comprises a capsule outlet 30b, 30b', 30b", 30b''', where the capsule leaves the at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31''' to finish the at least one cut. In other words, the capsule outlet 30b, 30b', 30b", 30b''' is arranged to form a cut finish in the capsule 2.

[0046] At least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31''' comprises at least one transition cutting portion 32, 32', 32", 32''' arranged in particular on the capsule inlet 30a, 30a', 30a", 30a''' and / or on the capsule outlet 30b, 30b', 30b", 30b''', forming at least one pointed end zone 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d at the start and / or end of the cut.

[0047] The transition cutting portion 32, 32', 32", 32''' is recessed relative to the remainder of the at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31''' so as to penetrate at least one thickness of the capsule 2, in particular one thickness of the side wall 21, and is recessed relative to the remainder of the at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31''' so as to reduce stress concentrations in the at least one pointed end zone 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d and prevent them from triggering fracture.

[0048] In other words, the recessed position of the transition cut portion 32, 32', 32", 32''' relative to the remaining portions allows some of the material of the capsule 2 to remain intact in at least one pointed end zone 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d so that the cut start and / or cut end do not excessively weaken the at least one strap 27, 28.

[0049] The transition cut portion 32, 32', 32", 32''' extends over a smaller angular portion than the remainder of the at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31''' so that a majority of the at least one cut, particularly a central portion of the at least one cut that is not subject to stress concentrations important to the structure of the capsule 2, is made from the remainder of the at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31'''.

[0050] At least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31'" comprises, in particular, a wedge-shaped portion extending on a median plane M, M', M", M'". The wedge-shaped portion has an outward-facing end that defines the profile of the at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31'". During the execution of a cut, the at least one cutting edge that at least partially penetrates the thickness of the capsule 2, in particular the side wall 21, negatively represents the profile of the cutting edge on the cut capsule making the at least one cut. The wedge-shaped portion further comprises a base connected to the plate-like body 30, 30', 30", 30'", on which the at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31'" is obtained.

[0051] Similarly, at least one transition portion 32 and the remainder of the cutting edge also include respective wedge-shaped bodies as disclosed, which define the profile of the transition cutting portion 32 and the profile of the remainder of the cutting edge 31.

[0052] With reference to the cross-sections illustrated in FIGS. 2, 8, and 13, at least one transition cutting portion 32, 32', 32", 32''' (or equivalently at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31''') can provide sharpening on both the upper side 32a, 32a', 32a" and the lower side 32b, 32b', 32b"). In particular, both the upper side 32a, 32a', 32a" and the lower side 32b, 32b', 32b" are inclined by respective acute angles relative to the midplane M, M', M", M''', of the cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31'''.

[0053] Alternatively, in a further embodiment, at least one transition cutting portion 32, 32', 32", 32''' may be provided with a single sharpening, i.e., sharpened on one side. In other words, the upper side 32a, 32a', 32a" may be oriented parallel to the mid-plane M, M', M", M''', and the lower side 32b, 32b', 32b" may be inclined at an acute angle to the mid-plane M, M', M", M''', or vice versa.

[0054] The transition cutting portion 32, 32', 32", 32''' is continuous with the remainder of the at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31''', in particular such that the at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31''' makes at least one cut continuously.

[0055] The profile of at least one transition cutting portion 32, 32', 32", 32''' and the profile of the remaining part of the transition cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31''' are coplanar, in particular on the mid-plane M, M', M", M'".

[0056] The cutting device 1 may in particular comprise a layered structure in which at least two plate-like bodies 30, 30', 30", 30''' are stacked on top of one another in a stacking direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to at least one face of one of the at least two plate-like bodies 30, creating a configuration of cutting edges arranged at at least two different levels along the stacking direction such that at least two cutting edges 31, 31', 31", 31"' cut the capsule 2 to form at least one strap 27, 28.

[0057] In one alternative embodiment, the cutting device 1 may comprise a single cutting plate-like element including at least two cutting edges 31, 31', 31", 31'" arranged at at least two different levels along a direction parallel to the thickness of the single plate-like element for forming at least one strap 27, 28 on the capsule 2, in particular.

[0058] 1-4, the transition cutting portion 32 is located on the capsule outlet 30b. Referring again to the particular embodiment of FIG. 1, the cutting device 1 includes a cutting edge, but to generate more cuts, the cutting device can be provided with multiple cutting edges spaced apart from one another along the direction of movement E. Each cutting edge may include a respective transition cutting portion.

[0059] 1 and 3, the transition cutting portion 32 is angled relative to the remainder of the cutting edge 31 such that an obtuse angle α is formed between the transition cutting portion 32 and the remainder of the cutting edge 31. In particular, the angle α is centered on a point inside the cutting edge 31, in a plane parallel to the midplane M (or equivalently, the drawing plane of FIG. 3), and located between the transition cutting portion 32 and the remainder of the cutting edge 31 where the cutting edge 31 changes angle.

[0060] The remaining part of the cutting edge 31 has an at least partially curved, in particular partially circumferential arc, profile, which is centered on an axis that is perpendicular to the midplane M outside the cutting device 1. In particular, this circumferential arc may be centered on the axis of rotation R' of the carousel 70. In a further embodiment not shown, the remaining part of the cutting edge 31 may have an at least partially rectilinear profile.

[0061] 1 and 3, the transition cut portion 32 has an at least partially rectangular profile. Nevertheless, in further embodiments not shown, the transition cut portion 32 can have an at least partially curved profile.

[0062] The particular embodiment shown in Figures 5 and 6 is a variation of the embodiment of Figure 1 in which the transition cut portion 32 is located at the capsule entrance 30a.

[0063] 1, the capsule 2 is arranged to rotate about its own longitudinal axis C, which is in particular coaxial with the axis of rotation R of the spindle 71. In a further embodiment for ease of illustration, the longitudinal axis C of the capsule 2 and the axis of rotation R of the spindle 71 can be spaced apart rather than coaxial.

[0064] Referring to the particular embodiment of Figures 7, 8 and 9, the transition cutting portion 32' is positioned over the capsule entrance 30a' and is recessed relative to the remainder of the cutting edge 31' so as to form a step between the transition cutting portion 32' and the remainder of the cutting edge 31'.

[0065] 8, which shows a cross section taken along a plane perpendicular to mid-plane M' and perpendicular to the profile of transition cutting portion 32', a sharpening depth PA32' can be defined that corresponds to the distance between the end of the wedge-shaped body (or equivalently, the profile of cutting portion 32') and the base of the wedge-shaped body, as measured on mid-plane M' perpendicular to the profile of transition cutting portion 32'. Similarly, a sharpening depth PA31' can be defined for the remainder of cutting edge 31'.

[0066] 9, the transition cutting portion 32' is offset relative to the remainder of the cutting edge 31' by an offset distance inward of the cutting edge 31. The offset distance DS between the transition cutting portion 32' and the remainder of the cutting edge comprises between 1 / 5 and 1 / 2, particularly 1 / 3, of the sharpening depth PA31' of the remainder of the cutting edge 31'.

[0067] 7, 9, 10 and 11, the cutting device 1 further comprises at least one further cutting edge 35' for making a further cut in the capsule 2, the at least one further cutting edge 35' being spaced apart from the cutting edge 31' by a non-cutting recess 34' continuous with the cutting edge 31' and the further cutting edge 35'. When the capsule rolls over the cutting edge 31' during the cut, the recess 34' does not contact the capsule 2. The at least one further cutting edge 35' can be located in the same plane as the at least one cutting edge 31''', in particular on the mid-plane M'. The further cutting edge 35' can have an at least partially curved profile, in particular a profile that is at least partially a circumferential arc (FIGS. 7, 9, 10 and 11). In a further embodiment not shown, the further cutting edge 35' can have an at least partially rectangular profile. The cutting device 1 may in particular include cutting edges 35' spaced apart from the cutting edge 31' by recesses 34' so as to perform a plurality of separate cuts in the capsule 2.

[0068] The particular embodiment shown in Figures 10 and 11 is a variation of the embodiment of Figure 7 in which the transition cut portion 32' is located at the capsule outlet 30b'.

[0069] In the particular embodiments of Figures 12, 13 and 14, the transition cutting portion 32" is connected to the remainder of the transition cutting edge 31" and has a curved, in particular at least partially circumferential arc-shaped, profile in a plane parallel to the midplane M". In other words, the profile of the transition cutting portion 32" is continuous with the profile of the remainder of the cutting edge 31" and curves inwardly of the cutting edge 31". The radius of curvature of the profile of the transition cutting portion 32" can be 0.3 to 2 times, in particular 0.5 times, the sharpening depth PA31" of the cutting edge 31".

[0070] 12 and 14, the plate-like body 30" includes first and second cutting edges 31" for forming two upper pointed end zones 24a, 24b of at least one strap 27, 28. The two cutting edges 31" are on the same mid-plane M" and are spaced apart from each other along the direction of movement E. The first cutting edge 31" has a first transition cutting portion 32" positioned above the capsule inlet 30a", and the second cutting edge 31" has a second transition cutting portion 32" positioned above the capsule outlet 30b", such that the two curved transition cutting portions 32" face each other.

[0071] The two transition cut portions 32" are separated by a further recess 34" so as to make two separate cuts in the capsule 2.

[0072] As shown in Figures 12 and 14, the remaining portion of the at least one cutting edge 31" can be at least partially curved, in particular at least partially a circumferential arc whose center is located outside the cutting device 1.

[0073] In certain embodiments of Figures 18, 19, 20, and 21, the transition cutting portion 32''' is rounded (or blunt) and includes at least one curved surface 32a''', 32b''' configured to cut the capsule 2, particularly at the cut start and / or cut end. In Figures 18, 19, 20, and 21, two curved surfaces 32a''', 32b''' are shown: an upper curved surface 32a" and a lower curved surface 32b''', which are substantially symmetrical about the midplane M''',. The curved surfaces 32a''' and 32b''' can be connected to each other to form a single curved surface.

[0074] At least one curved surface 32a''', 32b''' is curved in at least one direction transverse to a midplane M''' of at least one cutting edge 31''', along which at least one cut is made. At least one curved surface 32a''', 32b''' may be conical, in particular semi-conical (as in the illustrated embodiment). A peak H of the cone may be obtained in the remainder of cutting edge 31''' (or equivalently, in the profile of the remainder of cutting edge 31''').

[0075] In the particular embodiment of Figures 18, 19, 20 and 21, the plate-shaped body 30''' includes first and second cutting edges 31''' for forming the two upper pointed end zones 24a, 24b of the straps 27, 28. The two cutting edges 31''' are on the same mid-plane M''' and spaced apart from each other along the direction of movement E. At the first cutting edge 31''', a first transition cutting portion 32''' is arranged above the capsule inlet 30a''', and at the second cutting edge 31''', a second transition cutting portion 32''' is arranged above the capsule outlet 30b''', such that the two transition cutting portions 32''' face each other. The two transition cutting portions 32''' are separated by a further recess 34''' to make two different cuts in the capsule 2.

[0076] The plate-like body 30''' (FIGS. 19, 20, and 21) has an upper surface 30c''' and a lower surface 30d''' that face each other. The upper surface 30c''' and the lower surface 30d''' are substantially flat and substantially parallel to each other.

[0077] The cutting device 1 (according to the embodiment of Figures 18, 19, 20, 21) may comprise at least one base surface 32c''', 32d''' configured to connect at least one curved surface 32a''', 32b''' to the base of the at least one cutting edge 31'''. The at least one base surface 32c''', 32d''' may be curved. In the illustrated embodiment, an upper base surface 32c''' is provided for connecting at least the curved surface 32a''', 32b''' to the upper surface 30c''', and a lower base surface 32d''' is provided for connecting at least the curved surface 32a''', 32b''' to the lower surface 30d'''. In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one base surface 32c''', 32d''' is arranged near a further recess 34'''. Between the two base surfaces 32c''', 32d''', an intermediate connecting surface 32e''' may be provided, which may be substantially flat. The upper base surface 32c''' (or the lower base surface 32d''') may be triangular sail-shaped or semi-conical, terminating in an upper peak zone J (or lower peak zone K) at the upper surface 30c''' (or lower surface 3d''').

[0078] Referring to the embodiment of FIG. 22, the cutting device 1 provides two cutting edges 31''' of the same height, spaced apart by a further non-cutting recess 34'''. The two cutting edges 31''' have respective transition cutting portions 32''' for forming two upper pointed end zones 24a, 24 (FIGS. 15 and 23). The cutting device 1 can have a horizontal cutting edge 36 arranged at a different height relative to the height of the two cutting edges 31'''. Referring to FIG. 22, the cutting device 1 includes a layered structure in which more (three) plates are stacked on top of each other to form a cutting edge configuration suitable in particular for forming straps 27, 28 (FIGS. 22 and 23). The cutting device 1 includes one or more (two) transverse cutting edges 37 for forming transverse cuts in the capsule 2. In the embodiment shown in Figures 22 and 23, the transverse cuts may define tab portions 29 (Figure 23) in the cap 2 suitable for interacting with the tamper-evident ring 22 (or a protrusion on the neck of the container) to maintain the capsule body 20 in an inclined position after opening of the container. One or more transverse cutting edges 37 may be obtained on an edge of a further plate-like body (not shown). The one or more transverse cutting edges 37 may comprise right-angled cutting edges, i.e. cutting edges perpendicular to the mid-plane M" (as in Figure 22), and / or one or more beveled cutting edges (not shown) that are inclined relative to the mid-plane M"

[0079] The transition cut portion 32''' can, by its structure, form a curved cut (or curved perforation) in the thickness of the capsule 2 at the beginning and / or end of the cut so as to reduce stress concentrations and prevent fracture initiation in at least one of the pointed zones 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d. In particular, the curved surfaces 32a''', 32b''' are effective in forming the upper pointed end zones 24a, 24b. The upper pointed end zones 24a, 24b can be obtained in the capsule 2 near the cut intended to form the tab portion 29 (FIG. 23).

[0080] The cutting device 1 can in particular comprise at least one recess 33 (FIG. 4) arranged on at least one cutting edge 31, 31', 31", 31'" in order to form at least one bridge in the capsule 2, this recess 33 being a thread-like connection between the tamper-evident ring 22 and the body 20 intended to be broken at the opening of the container to which the capsule 2 is applied, in order to indicate to the user that the container has been opened. After opening of the container, the capsule 2 looks like that shown in FIG. 15 with a part of the broken bridge 26 arranged at the open end of the body 20. The at least one recess 33 has reduced dimensions relative to the recess 34' (and relative to the further recess 34") so as to form a bridge cross-section that is significantly smaller than the cross-section of the at least one strap 27, 28. Indeed, the at least one bridge connection between the tamper-evident ring 22 and the body 20 is arranged in such a way that it is interrupted when the container is opened, and therefore requires less mechanical resistance than the connection of the at least one connecting strap 27, 28.

[0081] As can be seen from what has been disclosed above, the cutting device 1 according to the invention makes it possible to overcome the limitations and drawbacks of the devices of the prior art. The cutting device 1 according to the invention is particularly useful for forming connection straps having better mechanical qualities and resistance than known cutting devices. This is due to the at least one transition cut section which makes it possible to reduce the size of the cut in the thickness of the capsule up to at least one pointed end zone of the cut, thus reducing stress concentrations in the connection strap and the capsule which could trigger a break.

Claims

1. A cutting device (1) for forming at least one connecting strap (27, 28) on a capsule (2) for closing a container, for keeping the capsule (2) attached to the container after opening, comprising: the cutting device comprises at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31'") configured to perform at least one cut in the capsule; the capsule (2) comprises a cut start portion and a cut end portion suitable for forming at least one portion of at least one connecting strap (27, 28) that rolls over at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') during the execution of at least one cut, the at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') comprises a capsule inlet (30a, 30a', 30a", 30a''') where the capsule (2) meets the at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') to initiate the at least one cut, and a capsule outlet (30b, 30b', 30b", 30b''') where the capsule (2) leaves the at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') to complete the at least one cut; at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') is arranged on the capsule inlet (30a, 30a', 30a", 30a'") and / or on the capsule outlet (30b, 30b', 30b", 30b'") and comprises at least one transition cutting portion (32, 32', 32", 32''') forming at least one pointed end zone (24a, 24b, 24c, 24d) at the start and / or end of the cut, at least one transition cutting portion (32, 32', 32", 32''') is recessed relative to the remainder of the at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') and penetrates less than the thickness of the capsule (2) relative to the remainder of the at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') to reduce stress concentrations and prevent fractures from occurring in the at least one pointed end zone (24a, 24b, 24c, 24d); At least one transition cutting portion (32') is recessed relative to the remainder of the at least one cutting edge (31') so as to provide a step between the at least one transition cutting portion (32') and the remainder of the at least one cutting edge (31'); Cutting device.

2. the at least one transition cutting portion (32, 32', 32", 32''') is continuous with the remainder of the at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') such that the at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') makes at least one continuous cut; 2. The cutting device of claim 1.

3. a layered structure comprising at least two plates (30, 30', 30", 30'") stacked together to form a cutting edge arrangement configured to cut the capsule (2) to form at least one connecting strap (27, 28), 3. A cutting device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the cross section of the remaining portion of at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31") is equal to the cross section of at least one transition cutting portion (32, 32', 32"); The cross section is perpendicular to at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31"); The cutting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. At least one transition cutting portion (32) is inclined relative to the remainder of the cutting edge (31) such that an angle (α) between the transition cutting portion (32) and the remainder of the cutting edge (31) is obtuse; At least one transition cut portion (32) comprises a rectangular portion; The cutting device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. At least one transition cutting portion (32") is connected to the remaining portion of the at least one cutting edge (31"); At least one transition cut portion (32") is curved; At least one transition cut portion (32") particularly includes a circumferential arc shape. The cutting device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

7. At least one transition cut portion (32") includes a straight portion; The cutting device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

8. further comprising at least one further cutting edge (35') for making a further cut in the capsule (2); at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') is spaced from at least one further cutting edge (35') by a non-cutting recess (34'); at least one cleavage is different from said further cleavage; A cutting device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. two transition cut portions (32", 32'") separated by further recesses (34", 34'") to form two pointed end zones (24a, 24b) of at least one strap (27, 28); A cutting device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. At least one transition cutting portion (32, 32', 32") and the remainder of the cutting edge (31, 31', 31") are coplanar; A cutting device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A cutting device (1) for forming at least one connecting strap (27, 28) on a capsule (2) for closing a container, for keeping the capsule (2) attached to the container after opening, comprising: the cutting device comprises at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31'") configured to perform at least one cut in the capsule; the capsule (2) comprises a cut start portion and a cut end portion suitable for forming at least one portion of at least one connecting strap (27, 28) that rolls over at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') during the execution of at least one cut, the at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') comprises a capsule inlet (30a, 30a', 30a", 30a''') where the capsule (2) meets the at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') to initiate the at least one cut, and a capsule outlet (30b, 30b', 30b", 30b''') where the capsule (2) leaves the at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') to complete the at least one cut; at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') is arranged on the capsule inlet (30a, 30a', 30a", 30a'") and / or on the capsule outlet (30b, 30b', 30b", 30b'") and comprises at least one transition cutting portion (32, 32', 32", 32''') forming at least one pointed end zone (24a, 24b, 24c, 24d) at the start and / or end of the cut, at least one transition cutting portion (32, 32', 32", 32''') is recessed relative to the remainder of the at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') and penetrates less than the thickness of the capsule (2) relative to the remainder of the at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') to reduce stress concentrations and prevent fractures from occurring in the at least one pointed end zone (24a, 24b, 24c, 24d); At least one transition cutting portion (32') is recessed relative to the remainder of the at least one cutting edge (31') to provide a step between the at least one transition cutting portion (32') and the remainder of the at least one cutting edge (31'); At least one transition cut portion (32') includes a straight portion; Cutting device.

12. At least one transition cut portion (32''') is rounded; the at least one transition cutting portion (32''') includes at least one curved surface (32a''', 32b''') configured to cut the capsule (2) at the cut start and / or cut end; at least one curved surface (32a''', 32b''') is curved in at least one direction transverse to a mid-plane (M''') of at least one cutting edge (31''') along which at least one cut is made; 12. The cutting device of claim 11.

13. at least one curved surface (32a''', 32b''') is conical, in particular semi-conical, The peak H of the cone is obtained by the remaining part of the cutting edge 31''', 13. The cutting device of claim 12.

14. at least one base surface (32c''', 32d''') configured to connect the at least one curved surface (32a''', 32b''') to a base of the at least one cutting edge (31'''); At least one cutting edge (31''') is obtained on the edge of the plate (30'''), The plate-like body (30''') has an upper surface (30c''') and a lower surface (30d''') facing each other, at least one upper base surface (32c'") for connecting the at least one curved surface (32a'", 32b'") to the upper surface (30c'"), and at least one lower base surface (32d'") for connecting the at least one curved surface (32a'", 32b'") to the lower surface (30d'"); 14. The cutting device of claim 13.

15. the at least one transition cutting portion (32, 32', 32", 32''') is continuous with the remainder of the at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') such that the at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') makes at least one continuous cut; A cutting device according to any one of claims 11 to 14.

16. a layered structure comprising at least two plates (30, 30', 30", 30'") stacked together to form a cutting edge arrangement configured to cut the capsule (2) to form at least one connecting strap (27, 28), A cutting device according to any one of claims 11 to 15.

17. the cross section of the remaining portion of at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31") is equal to the cross section of at least one transition cutting portion (32, 32', 32"); the cross section is perpendicular to at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31"); A cutting device according to any one of claims 11 to 16.

18. At least one transition cutting portion (32) is inclined relative to the remainder of the cutting edge (31) such that an angle (α) between the transition cutting portion (32) and the remainder of the cutting edge (31) is obtuse; At least one transition cut portion (32) comprises a rectangular portion; A cutting device according to any one of claims 11 to 17.

19. At least one transition cutting portion (32") is connected to the remaining portion of the at least one cutting edge (31"); At least one transition cut portion (32") is curved; At least one transition cut portion (32") particularly includes a circumferential arc shape. A cutting device according to any one of claims 11 to 18.

20. Further comprising at least one further cutting edge (35') for making a further cut in the capsule (2); at least one cutting edge (31, 31', 31", 31''') is spaced from at least one further cutting edge (35') by a non-cutting recess (34'); at least one cleavage is different from further cleavages, A cutting device according to any one of claims 11 to 19.

21. comprising two transition cut portions (32", 32'") separated by further recesses (34", 34'") to form two pointed end zones (24a, 24b) of at least one strap (27, 28), A cutting device according to any one of claims 11 to 20.

22. At least one transition cutting portion (32, 32', 32") and the remaining portion of the cutting edge (31, 31', 31") are in the same plane. A cutting device according to any one of claims 11 to 21.

23. A cutting device (100) for forming at least one connecting strap (27, 28) on a capsule (2) for closing a container, for maintaining the capsule (2) attached to the container after opening, comprising: The cutting device is a feeding zone (40) into which the capsules (2) to be cut are fed; a cutting zone (50) downstream of the feeding zone (40) in which the capsules (2) are cut, Downstream is intended to refer to the forward path of the capsule; The cutting device also a discharge zone (60) downstream of the cutting zone (50) in which the capsules (2) are discharged or conveyed to a subsequent processing zone; one or more of a cutting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 and / or a cutting device (1) according to any one of claims 11 to 22, which is arranged in a cutting zone (50) and forms at least one strap (27, 28) on the capsule (2); a capsule carousel (70) including a plurality of mandrels (71) angularly spaced apart and mounted on the periphery of the carousel (70); Each mandrel (71) is arranged to engage a capsule (2), rotate the capsule (2) on itself, and convey the capsule (2) along an advance path through a feeding zone (40), a cutting zone (50), and an unloading zone (60); Cutting device (100).

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