Labelled container with protection for a content of the container

Abstract

The invention relates to a labelled container (1) with protection for a content of the container, comprising a body (10) for receiving a substance, and a label (20). The body (10) of the container has a region (11) which is non-transparent at least for a part of the light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm and a region (12) which is transparent for the entire visible spectrum. The label (20) is arranged in the transparent region (12) of the body (10). The non-transparent region (11) of the body (10) has a coating (13) for protecting the formulation of the substance. The label (20) comprises a protective film (21) for protecting the formulation of the substance.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Labelled container with protection for the contents of the container

[0003] The invention relates to a labelled container with a protective function for protecting a substance or for preserving the formulation of a substance with which the container is filled.

[0004] In the field of pharmaceutical drug development, organic active ingredients are increasingly gaining prominence. These include, for example, biopharmaceuticals, such as biologics, biosimilars, or mRNA active ingredients, or active ingredients used in cell / gene therapy. These active ingredients can be used therapeutically in a targeted manner, are highly potent, and are increasingly dominating the pharmaceutical industry's development pipeline. They are generally based on very large and very sensitive molecules.

[0005] The high sensitivity of these substances presents entirely new challenges for packaging systems. This particularly applies to the high demand for light / UV protection. Additional requirements include protection against heat / cold, contact with gases, or migration of substance components through the walls of a package or container.

[0006] In addition to the high level of protection required, it is also crucial that the formulation / substance inside the container can be inspected from the time it is filled until the medication is administered. This includes checking for discoloration, turbidity, or particles.

[0007] A common way to ensure light / UV protection at the primary packaging level, for example, is the use of colored glass or colored polymer. Various grades of amber glass, for example, are commonly available on the market. However, these amber glass containers do not allow the naked eye to see inside the container during inspection without color distortion, as the entire container is brown.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a container with protection for a content of the container so that the preservation of the formulation of the content of the container is ensured, and the container allows an inspection of its contents with the naked eye and without color distortion.

[0009] The problem is solved by a labeled container according to patent claim 1.

[0010] The container comprises a body for holding a substance and a label. The body has a non-transparent / opaque region for at least part of the light spectrum in the wavelength range between 80 nm and 800 nm and a region transparent to the entire visible spectrum. The label is arranged in the transparent region of the body. The non-transparent region of the body has a coating to protect the formulation of the substance. The label comprises a protective film to protect the formulation of the substance.

[0011] The coating in the non-transparent region of the body can be designed such that the formulation of the substance inside the container is protected from UV light, for example in the wavelength range between 80 nm and 400 nm. Furthermore, the coating can be designed such that the formulation of the substance inside the container is protected from UV light, for example in the wavelength range between 80 nm and 400 nm, and from light from the entire spectrum of visible light, for example in the wavelength range between 400 nm and 800 nm. Furthermore, the coating can be designed such that the formulation of the substance inside the container is protected from UV light and from light from a sub-range of the entire spectrum of visible light.According to another possible embodiment, the coating can be designed such that the formulation of the substance inside the container is only protected from the entire spectrum or part of the entire spectrum of visible light. The body of the container or the primary container thus has areas partially coated with a protective layer or a barrier material. These non-transparent areas, by means of the coating itself, offer protection for the substance inside the container against changes in its composition due to external influences, such as light or UV radiation. The transparent area of ​​the body of the container or primary container enables color-unadulterated inspection of the substance inside the container with the naked eye.In the transparent area of ​​the container, the label applied in this area, by means of its protective film, provides the intended protection of the substance against any change in its composition.

[0012] To enable a color-unadulterated view of the substance inside the container, the protective film can be transparent to the entire spectrum of visible light, according to one possible embodiment. The entire transparent area of ​​the container can be covered by the protective film of the label. The label is thus arranged within the entire transparent area of ​​the container. The protective film provides protection for the substance inside the container and also enables color-fast inspection of the contents.

[0013] According to another possible embodiment, the label can have at least one cover film arranged over the protective film, in particular the protective film that is transparent throughout the visible spectrum. The cover film can be opaque for at least a portion or wavelength range of the visible spectrum. The cover film can be reversibly or irreversibly removable from the protective film.

[0014] In this embodiment, the opaque cover film, when the label is closed and the cover film is arranged on the protective film, enables, for example, protection for the substance inside the container from visible light or a portion of visible light. When the label is opened and the cover film is reversibly or irreversibly detached from the protective film, a colorfast view of the substance inside the container is possible. At the same time, the protective film arranged beneath the cover film continues to provide a proper protective function, such as UV protection, for the contents inside the container.

[0015] According to another possible embodiment of the labeled container, the protective film can be transparent for a first part / wavelength range of the light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm and opaque for a second part / wavelength range of the light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm. According to another possible embodiment, the protective film can be opaque for the entire light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm.

[0016] In these two embodiments, according to a further advantageous embodiment, the protective film can be reversibly or irreversibly removed from the transparent area of ​​the body. The label or protective film can be arranged in the entire transparent area of ​​the container. The protective film provides the intended protection, for example, UV protection, for the substance inside the container, while the transparent area of ​​the container body allows a colorfast view of the contents inside the container when the protective film is reversibly or irreversibly removed from the transparent area of ​​the body.

[0017] The following describes an embodiment of the labeled container in which only a part / section of the protective film can be lifted off the transparent area of ​​the container, while another part / section of the protective film continues to adhere firmly to the transparent area of ​​the container.

[0018] The protective film of the label has a first section and a second section. The first section of the protective film can be separated from the second section. Furthermore, the first section of the protective film can be reversibly or irreversibly removed from the transparent area of ​​the body.

[0019] For example, the first section of the protective film can be transparent for one part / wavelength range of the light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm and opaque for another part / wavelength range of the light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm. However, the first section of the protective film can also be opaque for the entire light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm.

[0020] The first section of the protective film thus forms an inspection window within the label, which can be opened reversibly or irreversibly. When the inspection window is closed, the first section of the protective film, in addition to its intended protection, such as UV protection, also offers protection for the substance inside the container from visible light, or at least from a portion of visible light. To allow a colorfast view of the contents of the container with the naked eye, the first section of the protective film can be separated from the second section of the protective film, allowing the inspection window to be opened reversibly or irreversibly.

[0021] According to one possible embodiment of the labeled container, the first section of the protective film can be at least partially connected to the second section of the protective film via a punching line. To open the inspection window, the first section of the protective film is separated from the second section of the protective film along the punching line. If the label is designed such that the first section can be completely separated from the second section by cutting along the punching lines, the label has an inspection window that can be opened irreversibly.

[0022] In the case of a reversibly removable protective film, according to another possible embodiment of the labeled container, the first section of the protective film can be connected to the second section of the protective film along a bending edge / crease line. By bending at the bending edge, the first section of the protective film can be reversibly removed from the transparent area of ​​the body. In this embodiment, the first section of the protective film forms a resealable inspection window.

[0023] The first section of the protective film can be circumferentially surrounded by the second section of the protective film. In this embodiment, the inspection window is located in the interior of the label. If the first section of the protective film is connected to the second section of the protective film along its entire circumference via a punch line, the first section of the protective film represents an irreversibly openable inspection window. If the punch line is not arranged completely around the first section of the protective film and the first section is connected to the second section of the protective film on one side along a bending edge / crease line, the first section of the protective film represents a reversibly openable inspection window.

[0024] According to another possible embodiment, the first portion of the protective film can extend from a lower edge to an upper edge of the label. The label is arranged on the body of the container such that its edges run perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the container. The lower edge is arranged closer to the bottom of the container than the upper edge. Conversely, the upper edge of the label is arranged closer to the opening of the container than the lower edge.

[0025] In such an embodiment of the labeled container, the first section of the protective film can be connected to the second section of the protective film via a punch line. In this case, the first section of the protective film represents an irreversibly openable inspection window. If the label is designed such that the first section of the protective film merges into the second section of the protective film along a bending edge / crease line, a reversibly openable inspection window can be realized.

[0026] The label can provide various intended protective functions to protect a product inside the container, either individually or in combination.

[0027] The protective film and the coating can, for example, be designed such that the protection provided is protection against UV radiation or protection against a visible spectrum. Furthermore, the protective film or coating can be designed such that the protection provided is protection against the penetration of gases or the penetration of migratory small molecular substances or the penetration of water vapor into the container. Furthermore, the protection provided can be protection against the escape of gases, the escape of migratory small molecular substances or the escape of water vapor from the container. According to another embodiment, the protective film and the coating can be designed such that the protection provided is protection against a temperature, i.e. protection against heat or cold.Furthermore, the protective film and the coating can be designed such that the protection provided protects the contents of the container from radioactive radiation. According to another embodiment, the protective film and the coating can be designed such that the protection provided protects against the loss of a solvent in the substance. In this embodiment, the protective film or coating prevents the solvent contained in the contents from escaping, usually in gaseous form, from a wall of the container.

[0028] Various embodiments of the labeled container with protection for the contents of the container are explained in detail and clearly below using figures. They show:

[0029] Figure 1 A and 1B a labelled container with protection for a content of the

[0030] container;

[0031] Figure 2A shows a label with a combination of different protective functions;

[0032] Figure 2B a coating for a non-transparent area of ​​a container with different protective functions

[0033] Figures 3A to 3C show a container with different arrangements of a non-transparent and a transparent area;

[0034] Figure 4 shows a container with a cap for providing a protective function;

[0035] Figure 5 shows a labelled container with an area of ​​a label overlapping a non-transparent area of ​​the container;

[0036] Figures 6A and 6B show a labeled container with a transparent inspection window; Figures 7A and 7B show a labeled container with a semi-transparent inspection window with opening function;

[0037] Figures 8A and 8B show a labelled container with a light-tight inspection window with opening function;

[0038] Figures 9A to 9F show a label with different designs for opening an inspection window;

[0039] Figure 10A to IOC show a label with various embodiments for detecting opening of the inspection window;

[0040] Figure 11 A to 1 IC a multilayer label for providing a protective function;

[0041] Figures 12A to 12E show a label with various embodiments for facilitating the opening of an inspection window;

[0042] Figure 13 shows a cross-sectional view of a container with a step between a non-transparent area and a transparent area of ​​a body of the container;

[0043] Figure 14 shows an embodiment of a label with an overlapping area segmented by a punching;

[0044] Figure 15 shows an embodiment of a labelled container with a double-layered label;

[0045] Figure 16 shows a label with label sections arranged side by side to compensate for a height difference between a non-transparent and a transparent area of ​​a container; and

[0046] Figure 17 shows an embodiment of a labeled container with an additional layer in a transparent region of a body for compensating for a height difference between a non-transparent and a transparent region of a container.

[0047] Figures 1A and 1B show a labeled container 1 with protection for the contents of the container, in particular protection for preserving the formulation of the contents of the container. The contents or the filling material of the container can be, for example, a substance from the pharmaceutical sector, in particular a liquid. The labeled container 1 comprises a body / primary container 10 for holding the substance and a label 20. The body 10 has a non-transparent / opaque region 11 that is at least for a portion of the light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm and a transparent region / transparent region 12 that is transparent for the entire visible spectrum, for example, between 400 nm and 800 nm.

[0048] The non-transparent region 11 of the body 10 has a coating 13 to protect the formulation of the substance, i.e., to protect it from changes in the composition of the substance, inside the container. The non-transparent region 11 of the body 10 thus represents a "protective area" for the contents of the container. At least one transparent protective layer can be applied in the transparent region 12 of the body, so that this area is transparent on the one hand and provides the intended protection for the substance inside the container on the other.

[0049] The label 20 is arranged in the transparent area 12 of the body 10. The label 20 comprises a protective film 21 to protect the formulation of the substance or to protect the substance from changes in its composition.

[0050] The coating 13, which is arranged in the non-transparent region 11 of the body 10, and the protective film 21 of the label 20 provide intended protection for the substance inside the container. The coating 13 or the protective film 21 can, for example, be designed such that the protection provided is protection against radiation, for example, UV radiation or radioactive radiation. Furthermore, the intended protection can be protection against the penetration of gases, for example, protection against the penetration of oxygen, or the penetration of migratory small molecular substances, or the penetration of water vapor into the container, etc.Furthermore, the coating 13 or the protective film 21 can be designed such that the intended protection provided is protection against the escape of gases, for example oxygen, or against the escape of migratory small molecular substances or against the escape of water vapor from the container 10, etc. According to a further possible embodiment, the coating 13 or the protective film 21 can be designed such that the intended protection provided is protection of the substance inside the container from a temperature. Furthermore, the coating 13 or the protective film 21 can be designed such that the intended protection provided is protection against a loss of a component of the substance, for example, protection against a loss of a solvent of the substance.

[0051] With the aid of the labeled container according to the invention, protection is thus provided for the contents or substance inside the container in that the body / primary container 10 is partially provided, in the non-transparent area 11, with a coating / protective layer 13 which provides the intended protection for the contents or substance inside the container, and in that a label protectively covers the non-protected or less protected transparent area of ​​the body / primary container 10.

[0052] If the protective film 21 of the label is transparent to the entire spectrum of visible light, the container allows a colorfast inspection of the substance inside the container, while at the same time maintaining the intended protection for the substance.

[0053] According to another embodiment, the protective film 21 can be transparent for a first part or first wavelength range of the light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm and opaque for a second part or second wavelength range of the light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm. According to another embodiment, the protective film 21 can be opaque for the entire light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm. In both of these embodiments, a color-unadulterated view of the substance inside the container with the naked eye is also possible. For this purpose, the protective film 21 or a section of the protective film 21 is designed as an openable inspection window. The inspection window can be opened irreversibly or be designed as a resealable inspection window.At the same time, in the two embodiments mentioned, the intended protection for the contents inside the container is maintained at least as long as the inspection window is closed.

[0054] If the body / primary container 10 has a protective layer in the transparent area 12 that is transparent to visible light and provides the intended protection, for example UV protection, the protective function for the substance inside the container is ensured even if the inspection window is opened, i.e. the protective film 21 or at least a portion of the protective film 21 is lifted off the body of the container.

[0055] As shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the coating / protective layer 13 can be applied to a neck region and an upper region of the body 10. Furthermore, the coating / protective layer 13 can be arranged on a bottom and lower region of the body 10. In the neck region and in the upper region of the body 10 as well as in the lower region of the body and in the bottom region, the container 1 thus has the intended protective function. The transparent region 12 is arranged in the central region of the body, so that the container is unprotected and transparent to visible light in the central region. The transparent region 12 can, as shown in Figure 1A, encompass the entire circumference of the container 1 or, as shown in Figure 1B, encompass only a partial region of the container.The label 20 is arranged in the transparent area 12 of the body and provides the intended protective function in this area to protect the substance inside the container.

[0056] In addition to the above-mentioned embodiment, in which the protective film 21 or the coating 13 provides a single intended protective function, the protective film 21 or the coating 13 can be designed such that two or more intended protective functions are combined. The protective film 21 of the label or the coating 13 thus ensures two or more protective functions in the transparent area 12 of the body.

[0057] For example, the protective film can provide UV protection by means of a UV protection layer and prevent the penetration or escape of gases into or from the container by means of a gas barrier layer. In such an embodiment, the non-transparent region 11 of the body 10 also has a coating 13 that enables both protective functions, for example, protection against UV radiation and protection against penetrating or escaping gases. This can be achieved, for example, by a multi-layer structure of the protective film 21 of the label or by a multi-layer structure of the coating 13 on the body 10 of the label.

[0058] Figure 2A shows an embodiment of the protective film 21 for providing a combination of protective functions. The protective film 21 is multi-layered and has, in the transparent region 12 of the body 10 of the container, a first layer 21a for providing a first intended protective function, for example, a film layer with a gas barrier, and a second layer 21b arranged thereover for providing a further intended protective function, for example, a film layer with UV protection. The various film layers 21a, 21b of the protective film 21 can be bonded to one another using a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 60.

[0059] Figure 2B shows an embodiment of a multilayer coating 13 with a protective layer 13a and a protective layer 13b arranged in the non-transparent region 11 of the body 10 of the container. The protective layer 13a realizes a first intended protective function and is designed, for example, as a gas barrier layer. The second protective layer 13b, arranged above the first protective layer 13a, provides a second intended protective function and is designed, for example, as a UV protection layer.

[0060] Figures 3A, 3B, and 3C show further embodiments of the labeled container 1 in the form of a syringe or a bottle, for example a pharmaceutical vial / container, for holding a substance. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3A, the non-transparent region 11, in which the coating 13 provides the intended protective function, is located in the upper and lower regions of the container. The transparent region 12 is located in the middle region of the container. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3B, the non-transparent region 11 with the coating 13 is located in the upper region of the container, and the transparent region 12 is located in the lower region of the container. Conversely, in the embodiment shown in Figure 3C, the transparent region 12 is located in the upper region of the container, and the non-transparent region 11 is located in the lower region of the body 10 of the container.

[0061] In addition to using a protective layer, the non-transparent area 11 of the body 10 can be protected, for example, by attaching a sleeve or cap, for example, made of PP, PE, PET, PVC, or aluminum. The cap / sleeve can itself be coated to provide the appropriate intended protection, enhance the protection of the cap, or combine various protective functions (for example, UV protection and gas barrier).

[0062] The left image of Figure 4 shows a container 1 in which the upper, non-transparent region 11 of the body 10 is protected by a coating 13 and a cap 50 assumes the protective function in the lower, non-transparent region 11 of the body 10. The right image of Figure 4 shows an embodiment in which a cap 50 is placed onto the upper, non-transparent region 11 of the body 10 and assumes the intended protective function there, while a coating 13 ensures the intended protective function in the lower, non-transparent base region of the container.

[0063] Figure 5 shows an embodiment of the labeled container 1 in which the label 20 is arranged on the transparent region 12 of the body 10 of the container 1 in such a way that a part of the label 20 is arranged in an overlap region 205 on the non-transparent region 11 or on the coating 13 in the non-transparent region 11 of the body. The overlap region 205 thus represents an area that is protected by the coating 13, but is additionally covered by the label 20. The overlap region is preferably provided at the transition between the non-transparent protective region 11 and the transparent region 12 in order to ensure that complete, intended protection, for example complete light / UV protection, is provided, even if the positioning of the label 20 is subject to tolerances during the labeling process.

[0064] Various embodiments of the label 20 are described below using the example of a light / UV protection label. It should be noted that the described embodiments are not limited to a light / UV protection label with intended protection against light or UV radiation. Instead, the label 20 can also provide other intended protective functions, such as those explained above.

[0065] Figures 6A to 10C show embodiments of the label 20 in which the label is longer than the circumference of the container body 10. The labels shown therefore have an overlap region 205 in which the layers of the label overlap after the label has been affixed to the container. However, the embodiments of a label or labeled container described below and shown in Figures 6A to 10C are not limited to an embodiment of the label with an overlap region.

[0066] Figures 6A and 6B show an embodiment of the label 20 in which the protective film 21 is transparent to the entire spectrum of visible light. Furthermore, the protective film 21 is configured with the intended protective function, for example, light / UV protection. If the contents of the container only need to be protected from UV radiation, for example, a transparent UV protective film 21 can be used as the base film for the label. A transparent UV protective film can provide protection against UV radiation through the material itself, through functionalization in the mass, or through a transparent UV protective coating.

[0067] A section 201 of the protective film 21 is integrated into the label layout as an unprinted, transparent inspection window (optionally with scaling for labeling syringes). The section 201 of the protective film forming the inspection window is to be positioned in the label such that, after the label has been affixed to the body 10 of the container, it lies within the transparent area 12 of the container body. The section 201 is transparent to the visible light spectrum. The transparent section 201, and thus the transparent inspection window, can encompass the entire label surface or constitute a partial surface of the label.

[0068] The remaining area, or a section 202 of the protective film 21 surrounding section 201, can be provided with lettering and artwork. It must be ensured that the label and / or the coating and / or printing of the label in the areas that, after the label 20 has been affixed to the body 10, lie in the transparent area 12 of the body 10 and do not belong to the inspection window, have at least the level of protection of the inspection window area, i.e., for example, they provide at least protection against UV radiation. Furthermore, it is advantageous if the label is slightly longer than the circumference of the body 10 of the container 1, so that an overlap area 205 results after the label has been affixed to the body 10. This ensures that no residual gap is created between the start and end of the label after application to the body 10 of the container 1, through which UV radiation or light could penetrate into the container.The non-transparent protective area 11 of the body 10 must have at least the level of protection of the inspection window area 21, for example at least protect against UV radiation.

[0069] Figure 6B shows an exemplary embodiment in which the container 1 is designed as a syringe with a primary closure 101, as well as non-transparent regions 11 in the form of a Luer adapter 102, a syringe top or a syringe shoulder 103, as well as a central jacket region 104 and a lower jacket region / finger flange 105. The body 10 has the coating 13 in the non-transparent regions 11 to implement the intended protective function.

[0070] The label 20 has the section 201 designed as an inspection window and transparent to the visible spectrum, with the intended protective function, for example, UV protection, and optionally a scale. Section 202 of the label adjoins section 201 on both sides and is designed as a printed area with artwork and inscription with at least the protective function of section 201. While Figures 6A and 6B show embodiments in which the inspection window and section 201 of the protective film 21 are transparent and permanently open, the following Figures 7A to 7B show embodiments of the label 20 in which section 201 forming the inspection window is equipped with an opening function.

[0071] The embodiments of the label 20 shown in Figures 7A and 7B can be used when a higher level of protection is required than in the embodiments of Figures 6A and 6B, so that the label 20 not only provides the intended protection, for example, UV protection, but also protects the contents of the container, for example, from visible light components. In the embodiments shown, the protective film 21 is transparent for a first part / wavelength range of the light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm and opaque for a second part / wavelength range of the light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm.For example, if, in addition to providing UV protection, protection against violet and blue light is also required, the section 21 of the protective film 20 forming the inspection window can be colored yellow / orange so that, in addition to UV radiation, violet and blue light are also blocked, while still allowing the naked eye to see into the container. In this embodiment, section 21 of the protective film is thus designed as a semi-transparent inspection window.

[0072] For example, to ensure UV protection, a transparent UV film can be used as the base film / protective film 21 of the label. Section 201 of the protective film is placed in the label so that, after being applied to the body of the container, it lies within the transparent area 12 of the container. Section 201, or inspection window, can cover the entire label surface or constitute a partial surface of the label.

[0073] The remaining section 202 forms the remaining surface of the label and can be provided with lettering and artwork. It must be ensured that the label and / or the coating and / or printing of the label in the areas located in the transparent area 12 of the body 10 of the container and not belonging to the inspection window have at least the same level of protection as the inspection window section 201, i.e., for example, at least against UV radiation, and protect against violet and blue light.

[0074] The protective function in section 202 of the label can be achieved, for example, by opaque printing with white ink as a background for black or colored lettering. The protective effect of the non-transparent protective area 11 of the body 10 of the container must also cover at least the wavelength range covered by the inspection window in section 201, thus, in the exemplary embodiment, providing protection against at least UV radiation and violet and blue light.

[0075] For a color-correct inspection, section 201 of the protective film 21 of the label can be partially or completely removed from the body 10, either reversibly (resealable inspection window) or irreversibly (non-resealable inspection window). For example, section 201 of the protective film 21 can be separable from section 202 of the protective film 21 and reversibly or irreversibly lifted from the transparent area 12 of the body 10. This at least partially exposes the transparent area 12 of the body 10 of the container from non-transparent components, allowing a color-correct view into the interior of the container 1 for inspection.

[0076] Figure 7A shows an exemplary design of the label 20 for a vial, which protects against UV radiation as well as violet and blue light and has a semi-transparent inspection window in section 201. Section 201 provides the protective function, for example, protection against UV radiation and violet and blue light. The section 202 surrounding the inspection window section 201 is designed as a printed area with artwork and lettering and also offers at least protection against UV radiation as well as violet and blue light.

[0077] Figure 7B shows an exemplary embodiment of the label 20 for a syringe, which protects the syringe contents, for example, from UV radiation as well as from violet and blue light and has a semi-transparent inspection window in section 201. The syringe is designed as described in Figure 6B. The label 20 has the semi-transparent section 201 of the protective film 21 forming the inspection window, with protection from UV radiation as well as from violet and blue light, which can optionally have a scale. Section 202 of the label 20, which adjoins section 201 on both sides, is designed as a printed area with artwork and lettering and offers at least protection from UV radiation as well as protection from violet and blue light.

[0078] Figures 8A and 8B show, by way of example, an embodiment of the label in which the protective film 21 is opaque to the entire visible spectrum. Such a design of the label can be used if, in addition to the intended protection, additional protection against the entire visible light spectrum is required. For example, if protection against UV radiation is provided as the intended protection, the protective film is opaque to the UV spectrum and the entire visible spectrum. For this purpose, the label 20 must cover the transparent area 12 of the body 10 of the container 1 in a UV- and light-tight manner. The light or UV protection must be present at least in those areas of the label which, after being affixed to the container, lie in the transparent area 12 of the body 10 of the container. The non-transparent protective area 11 of the body 10 is also UV- and light-tight.

[0079] For a color-unadulterated inspection, the label can be partially or completely removed from the body 10 of the container 1, either reversibly (resealable inspection window) or irreversibly (non-resealable inspection window). In the embodiments shown in Figures 8A and 8B, the section 201 of the protective film 21 forming the inspection window is separable from the remaining second section 202 of the protective film 21 and can be reversibly or irreversibly lifted from the transparent region 12 of the body 10 of the container. As a result, the transparent region 12 of the body 10 is at least partially exposed from the non-transparent label section 201, allowing a color-unadulterated view into the container 1 for inspection.

[0080] Figure 8A shows an example of an embodiment of the label 20 for application to the transparent region 12 of the body 10 of a vial. The label protects in the transparent region 12, for example, against UV radiation and additionally against visible light and has the UV- and light-tight sealed inspection window section 201. The surrounding section 202 of the protective film 21 can be printed with artwork and a label. Section 202 is also UV- and light-tight.

[0081] Figure 8B shows an embodiment of the label 20 for adhering to a syringe body 10 with a light-tight, sealed inspection window section 201 of the protective film 21, which is, for example, UV- and light-tight. The section 202 of the protective film 21 adjoining the inspection window section 201 of the protective film 21 can be designed as a printed area with artwork and lettering and has at least the same protective function as section 201.

[0082] Figures 9A to 9F show different embodiments for implementing an opening mechanism for lifting the first section 201 of the protective film 21 from the transparent region 12 of the container body and thus for opening the inspection window. In the embodiments shown, the protective film 21 is either semitransparent, i.e., transparent for a first wavelength range of the light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm and opaque for a second wavelength range of the light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm, or opaque for the entire light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm and thus UV- and light-tight.

[0083] Figures 9A to 9F show the label 20 with the protective film 21. The label has an upper edge 206 and a lower edge 207. On the labeled container, the two edges 206, 207 run perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the container. The upper edge 206 is arranged closer to the opening of the container, while the lower edge 207 is arranged closer to the bottom of the container. Furthermore, the label has an inlet edge 208 on the side that is applied first when applied to the container and an outlet edge 209 on the opposite side. Figures 9A and 9B show an embodiment of the label 20 in which the section 201 of the protective film 21 forming the inspection window is surrounded by the second section 202 of the protective film. The section 201 of the protective film 21 is at least partially connected to the second section 202 of the protective film via punching lines 204.The punching lines 204 can be continuous (drawn continuously in the figures) or at least partially interrupted (drawn dashed in the figures).

[0084] In the embodiment shown in Figure 9A, the partially interrupted punch lines 204 are arranged parallel to the upper and lower edges 206, 207 of the label. A continuous punch line 204 runs parallel to the leading and trailing edges 208, 209 near the trailing edge 209. A bending edge 203 runs parallel to the continuous punch line and perpendicular to the partially interrupted punch lines. The first section 201 of the protective film 21, forming the inspection window, is thus connected to the second section 202 of the protective film along the bending edge.

[0085] A grip tab 210 facilitates gripping and unfolding the section 201 of the protective film, thereby exposing at least the partial area in the transparent region of the container located beneath the section 201 of the protective film 21. To open the inspection window, the first section 201 of the protective film is reversibly lifted from the transparent region 12 of the container body by grasping the grip tab 210 and bending it at the bending edge 203. The bending edge acts as a type of hinge. The unfolded film section 201 can be folded back to close the window after inspection (reversibly opening inspection window).

[0086] When the section 201 of the protective film is unfolded and thus the inspection window is opened, the webs of the interrupted punch lines (perforations) 204 are destroyed. This indicates that the inspection window has been opened for the first time. The first-opening indicator can ensure that the inspection window has not already been opened without authorization, which could have caused damage to the contents of the container due to light entering the container. Figure 9B shows an embodiment of the label 20 in which an at least partially interrupted punch line (perforation) 204 is provided instead of the bending edge. In this embodiment, the film section 201 of the protective film 21 can be torn out to expose the inspection window (irreversibly openable inspection window).

[0087] Figures 9C and 9D show an embodiment of the label 20 in which the section 201 of the protective film 21 forming the inspection window extends to the upper and / or lower edge 206, 207 of the label. In these two embodiments shown, fewer punchings are necessary to open the film section 201. Reversible and irreversible opening embodiments are also possible here.

[0088] Figure 9C shows a reversibly openable embodiment of the label, in which section 201 can be separated from section 202 at the perforated punch line 204 and folded open at the bending edge 203. Figure 9D shows a label with an irreversibly openable inspection window, in which section 201 of the protective film 21 tears away from section 202 of the protective film along the two perforated punch lines 204 when the grip tab is pulled to open the inspection window, thus irreversibly separating it from section 202 of the protective film.

[0089] If the section 201 of the protective film 21, which forms the inspection window, extends to the trailing edge 209 of the label, fewer punchings are required to open the inspection window. If the section 201 of the protective film also extends to the top and bottom label edges 206, 207, no punching is necessary at all, except in the case of an irreversibly opening inspection window. The grip tab 201 can be integrated into an overlapping area 205—if present. In principle, both reversibly and irreversibly opening embodiments are possible.

[0090] Figure 9E shows, by way of example, a reversibly opening embodiment of the label, in which the section 201 extends to the trailing edge 209 of the label and, when the inspection window is opened, can be reversibly lifted off the transparent region of the container body by bending at the bending edge 203. Figure 9F shows an embodiment of the label in which, instead of the bending edge, a perforated cut line 203 runs from the upper edge 206 to the lower edge 207. When the inspection window is opened by lifting the section 201 of the protective film 21 at the grip tab 210, the perforated cut line tears, so that the section 201 of the protective film is irreversibly separated from the section 202 of the protective film.

[0091] The label 20 can optionally have an indicator to verify that the inspection window has been opened for the first time. A simple form of the indicator is the tearing of the perforated punch lines, as shown, for example, in the embodiments of the label with a reversibly opening inspection window in Figures 9A or 9C.

[0092] According to an embodiment shown in Figure 10A, the label 20 can have an RFID chip 30 for detecting the lifting of the portion 201 of the protective film 21 from the transparent area of ​​the container body. In this embodiment, the first opening indication is electronic. Figure 10A illustrates the basic principle using the example of an embodiment of the label 20 with a protective film 21, as shown in Figure 9C. The principle described below is not limited to this embodiment of the label.

[0093] An electrical conductor track 31 can be connected to the RFID chip 30, extending from the section 201 of the protective film beyond the perforated punch line 204 into the section 202 of the protective film. The conductor track 31 can, for example, be printed on the protective film 21 of the label. When the section 201 of the protective film is lifted from the transparent area of ​​the container body and thus when the inspection window is opened, the electrical conductor track 31 is destroyed. The RFID chip 30 can detect the destruction of the conductor track 31, for example, by detecting a change in the resistance of the conductor track due to the conductor track being torn off at the punch line 204, which is displayed when the RFID chip is read. This makes it possible to detect the first opening of the inspection window.

[0094] Another variant for indicating the initial opening of the inspection window is shown in Figure 10B. In this embodiment, the label 20 is designed such that a void effect is triggered when the protective film 21 is lifted from the transparent region 12 of the body 10 of the container. The void effect arises because coatings are partially separated from the protective film 21 or the body 10 when the protective film 21 or section 201 of the protective film 21 is lifted from an adhesive substrate, for example, the wall of the body 10 of the container.

[0095] For this purpose, for example, a layer 40 can be arranged between the protective film 21 and the transparent region 12 of the body of the container to reduce or eliminate an adhesive force of the protective film 21 to the transparent region 12 of the body.

[0096] One possible design for the label to trigger a void effect is illustrated in Figure 10B. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 10B, a layer 40 for reducing adhesive force, for example a layer of silicone or a silicone mixture, is applied in the form of a pattern or lettering to the body 10 of the container. A pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 60 is arranged on the underside of the protective film 21. A full-surface coating 50, for example, with a colored layer, can be arranged between the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 60 and the structured layer 40 for reducing adhesion.

[0097] When, during the opening of the inspection window, the protective film 21 or section 201 of the protective film 21 is lifted from the transparent area 12 of the body 10, the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 60 on the underside of the protective film 21 partially dissolves the ink layer 50 applied to the substrate / body 10 in the areas where the adhesive base has been weakened. Parts 51 of the ink layer remain adhered to the underside of the protective film 21, while other parts 52 of the ink layer remain adhered to the body 10 of the container. This makes a pattern or lettering visible in the ink layer. When the protective film 21 is returned to its original position, this pattern or lettering can still be seen, thereby irreversibly indicating that the inspection window has been opened for the first time.Figure 10C shows an exemplary embodiment of the label 20 in which such a void effect is integrated into the overlap region 205 of the label near the grip tab 210.

[0098] Figures 11A to 11C show a further embodiment of the container, in which the label 20 has a double-layer film structure to ensure the intended protection for the contents in the container even when the inspection window is open. As shown in Figures 11A to 11C, the label 20 has at least one cover film 22 arranged over the protective film 21. The protective film 21 provides the intended protection, for example, protection against UV light. The cover film 22 can be opaque for at least part of the visible spectrum. The label is designed such that the cover film 22 can be reversibly or irreversibly removed from the protective film 21.

[0099] The protective film 21 of the label is arranged on the body 10 of the container, for example a container wall, by means of a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 60. When the inspection window is closed, which is shown in Figure 11A, the cover film 22 is also arranged on the protective film 21 by means of a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 60. When the inspection window is opened, the cover film 22 is lifted or separated from the protective film 21 arranged beneath it, as shown in Figure 11B. Since the protective film 21 is transparent to the visible spectrum, the described embodiment enables a colorfast inspection of the contents of the container through the transparent protective film 21 after the cover film 22 has been lifted or removed. At the same time, the protective film 21 continues to provide the intended protective function, for example, UV protection, for the substance inside the container.

[0100] Figure 11C shows a modified embodiment of the label of Figures 11A and 11B, in which a part of the protective film 21, for example in the region of the outgoing label edge 209, overlaps with another region of the protective film 21 in the region of the incoming label edge 208. If, in the overlap region 205, the lower film section of the protective film 21 is at least partially transparent and provided with the intended protective function and the upper film section of the protective film 21 is colored or opaque, a color-unadulterated inspection of the contents of the container is possible if the upper film section of the protective film 21 is lifted from the lower film section in the overlap region 205.

[0101] Another possibility for a color-accurate inspection of the contents of the container is for the body 10 of the container to have a coating in the transparent area 12 that is transparent to the visible spectrum and simultaneously provides the intended protective function, for example, UV protection. The protective film 21 arranged thereon can then be opaque to part of the visible spectrum or the entire visible spectrum. When the inspection window is opened, the protective film 21 is lifted away from the underlying transparent coating. When the inspection window is open, the transparent coating on the body 10 of the container ensures the intended protection, for example, UV protection. At the same time, a color-accurate view of the interior of the container is possible.

[0102] In the above-described embodiments of the labeled container with an openable inspection window, the protective film 21 / section 201 of the protective film 21 or the cover film 22 must be lifted from the substrate when opening the inspection window in order to expose at least part of the transparent area 12 of the container. The adhesive base of the protective film 21 is the outer wall / container wall of the body / container 10 or the part of the protective film 21 located beneath the cover film 22. If the protective film 21 or the cover film 22 is adhered to the adhesive base with a pressure-sensitive adhesive, this can make opening the inspection window more difficult.

[0103] To facilitate opening the inspection window, according to one possible embodiment, the pressure-sensitive adhesive can be partially applied and / or the adhesive base can be treated at least partially in the area of ​​the inspection window in order to reduce or completely eliminate adhesion. Between the protective film 21 and the transparent region 12 of the body 10 or between the cover film 22 and the transparent section of the protective film 21, a layer 40 for reducing or eliminating an adhesive force of the protective film 21 to the transparent region 12 of the body 10 of the container or of the cover film 22 to the protective film 21 can be arranged. The layer 40 for reducing or eliminating the adhesive force can, for example, be a layer made of silicone or a silicone mixture or other substances that have a low tendency to wetting with the pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0104] Figures 12A to 12E show, using the example of a label in which the protective film 21 is lifted from a wall or the body 10 of the container for inspecting the contents of the container, various embodiments in the region of the inspection window for reducing an adhesive force between the protective film 21 and the body 10 of the container.

[0105] In the embodiment shown in Figure 12A, the underside of the protective film 21 in the region of the inspection window is only partially coated with a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 60 to reduce the adhesive force to the body 10 of the container. Figures 12B and 12C show embodiments in which a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 60 is arranged over the entire surface of an underside of the protective film 21 in the region of the inspection window. A layer 40 for reducing or eliminating an adhesive force of the protective film 21 is arranged partially (Figure 12B) or over the entire surface (Figure 12C) on the adhesive base / body 10 of the container in the region of the inspection window.

[0106] Figures 12D and 12E show embodiments for reducing the adhesive force in the area of ​​the inspection window, in which a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 60 is arranged over the entire surface of an underside of the protective film 21, and a layer 40 for reducing or eliminating the adhesive force of the protective film 21 to the body 10 is arranged partially on the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 60 (Figure 12D) or over the entire surface of the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 60 (Figure 12E). The adhesiveness of the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 60 is thus reduced or eliminated at the applied locations. In particular, it can be advantageous to reduce or completely eliminate the adhesiveness in the area of ​​the grip tab of the inspection window using the aforementioned options.

[0107] The coating 13 for providing the protective function in the non-transparent

[0108] Region 11 of the body 10 can, for example, be formed as a protective paint or varnish, a polymer layer, or a protective film applied inside the container or on the outer surface of the container. Various methods can be used to apply the protective paint, varnish, or other protective layer, such as a layer of metal, plastic, wax, or other organic materials, for example, a natural fiber mixture such as pulp.

[0109] The coating 13 can be applied, for example, by spraying the body 10 of the container with the coating, by immersing the body 10 of the container into the liquid coating, by brushing or mechanically painting / dyeing the body 10 with the coating, or by heat treating the body 10. Furthermore, the coating 13 can be applied to the non-transparent region 11 of the body 10 by means of contact pressure, by direct thermal joining, by welding the body 10 to the corresponding protective layer, by deposition from a gas phase, by vapor deposition, or by galvanic surface coating. The coating 13 can be applied in the process chain, for example, during container production (preferably before sterilization) or during filling or after filling the container 1, before labeling the body 10.

[0110] Some application methods for applying the coating 13 can result in a relevant layer thickness of, for example, 50 μm or more being applied to the container wall. For example, if a 100 μm thick protective layer / coating is applied to the entire circumference of a round container body, the diameter of the container in the protected area increases by 200 μm and the resulting circumference by approximately 0.6 mm.

[0111] Figure 13 shows a cross-section through a portion of the wall of the body 10 of the container, including the transparent region 11 of the body 10 and the coating 13 disposed in the non-transparent region 11 of the body 10. If a label is now adhered to the uncoated transparent region 12 and, in the overlapping region, also to a portion of the non-transparent region 11 of the body of the container, problems such as wrinkling may arise due to the step 14 between the transparent region 12 and the coating 13 and due to the different circumferences of the transparent region 12 and the non-transparent region 11.

[0112] To counteract this problem, according to one possible embodiment, an overlapping region 205 of the label 20, which is adhered to the non-transparent protective region 11 of the body 10, can be segmented, for example, by punching. Figure 14 illustrates the body 10 of the container with the non-transparent protective region 11 and the transparent region 12, as well as a label 20 with the segmented overlapping region 205, which overlaps the non-transparent protective region 11 after the label has been adhered to the body 10. The segmentation allows the label to better overcome the step between the transparent region 12 and the non-transparent protective region 11 and to compensate for the circumferential difference through a type of stretchability.

[0113] A further embodiment of a labeled container for overcoming the step or the circumferential difference between the non-transparent region 11 and the transparent region 12 of the body 10 is shown in Figure 15. The label is partially formed in two layers, particularly in a region 211 in which the label is adhered to the transparent region 12 of the body 10 of the container. In the two-layer region 211, the label has a lower layer 212 and an upper layer 213 arranged above it. In the overlap region 205, the label is formed in one layer. The lower layer 212 of the label is transparent in the section 201 of the label that forms the inspection window. The lower layer 212 has the same thickness as the coating 13 in the non-transparent protective region 11 and thus compensates for the step or the circumferential difference.

[0114] In addition to the design as a double-layer label shown in Figure 15, the double layer can be represented according to another embodiment by a label which, before being dispensed onto the container, as shown in Figure 16, has two label regions 214 and 215 arranged next to one another. Both label regions 214 and 215 together have a length LI + L2, which corresponds to twice the circumference of the container to be labeled. The front label region 214 is designed such that, when adhered to the body 10 of the container, it is first and exclusively arranged in the transparent region 12 of the container and compensates for the height difference between the non-transparent protective region 11 and the transparent region 12 of the body 10 of the container.The second label area 215 is then placed on the first part of the label during labeling and can thus cover the transition between the non-transparent protective area 11 and the transparent area 12 of the container without any optical defect.

[0115] The second label area 215 of the label may include a portion 201 forming an inspection window and a surrounding portion 202. The portion 201 may be formed with a semi-transparent inspection window, providing, for example, protection from UV and / or violet and / or blue light. The surrounding portion 202 may include a printed area with artwork and lettering. The light protection level in the portion 202 is at least as high as in the inspection window portion 201.

[0116] The first label area 214 is transparent, at least in the area that lies above the inspection window section 201 after dispensing, for example, with a UV protection function. The thickness of the label material, or the height / thickness of the material, is preferably selected in the first label area so that it corresponds, as far as possible, to the height difference between the non-transparent protective area 11 and the transparent area 12 of the container.

[0117] According to a further embodiment, the label 20 can comprise an elastically and / or plastically deformable material. The circumferential difference can be compensated for by the elastic and / or plastic deformation.

[0118] According to another embodiment, the label can be designed as a shrink label. If a label is shrunk onto the container, for example by heat treatment, the step is overcome without any major visual defects. Another possibility for compensating for the height difference between the non-transparent region 11 and the transparent region 12 of the body 10 is shown in Figure 17. In this embodiment, a transparent layer 70 is arranged in the transparent region 12 of the body 10, which has the same layer thickness as the coating 13 in the non-transparent protective region 11. This avoids a step between the non-transparent region 11 and the transparent region 12. The label 20 can thus be adhered to a flat surface.

[0119] Another possibility is to avoid the step created by coating 13, which makes labeling on the outside of the container difficult. This can be achieved by coating the container in the non-transparent area on the inside rather than on the outside.

[0120] Alternatively, it is possible to color the container in the non-transparent protective area 11 to achieve light and UV protection. This means that no material is applied to the non-transparent area 11, which would result in a step at the transition between the non-transparent area 11 and the transparent area 12. Instead, the original material of the container is modified by coloration so that it can protect against light and / or UV radiation. This can be achieved, for example, by irradiation with electromagnetic radiation, such as gamma radiation.

[0121] This principle of modifying the container material in the non-transparent protective area 11 instead of a coating can also be applied to other protective functions beyond light and UV protection. For example, it is possible to partially modify the container material (e.g., densify it) through a temperature treatment, e.g., (laser) sintering, in order to increase the barrier properties in the non-transparent area 11.

[0122] I Container

[0123] 10 bodies

[0124] II non-transparent area of ​​the body

[0125] 12 transparent area of ​​the body

[0126] 13 Coating

[0127] 20 labels

[0128] 21 protective film

[0129] 22 Cover film

[0130] 30 RFID chips

[0131] 31 Conductor track

[0132] 40 layer to reduce adhesive force

[0133] 50 cap

[0134] 60 adhesive layer

[0135] 101 Primary closure

[0136] 102 Luer adapters

[0137] 103 Syringe top

[0138] 104 medium he mantle oak

[0139] 105 lower shell area / finger flange

[0140] 201 first section of the label

[0141] 202 second section of the label

[0142] 203 Bending edge

[0143] 204 punching line

[0144] 205 Overlap area

[0145] 206 upper edge

[0146] 207 lower edge

[0147] 208 leading edge

[0148] 209 trailing edge

[0149] 210 Handle tab

Claims

Patent claims 1. A labelled container providing protection for the contents of the container, comprising: - a body (10) for receiving a substance, wherein the body (10) has a region (11) which is non-transparent for at least part of the light spectrum in the wavelength range between 80 nm and 800 nm and a region (12) which is transparent for the entire visible spectrum, - a label (20) arranged in the transparent area (12) of the body, - wherein the non-transparent region (11) of the body (10) has a coating (13) for protecting the formulation of the substance, - wherein the label (20) comprises a protective film (21) for protecting the formulation of the substance.

2. Labelled container according to claim 1, wherein the protective film (21) is transparent to the entire spectrum of visible light.

3. Labeled container according to claim 1, wherein the protective film (21) is transparent for a first wavelength range of the light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm and opaque for a second wavelength range of the light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm.

4. Labeled container according to claim 1, wherein the protective film (21) is opaque for the entire light spectrum between 80 nm and 800 nm.

5. Labelled container according to one of claims 3 or 4, wherein the protective film (21) can be reversibly or irreversibly removed from the transparent region (12) of the body (10).

6. Labelled container according to claim 5, - wherein the protective film (21) has a first section (201) and a second section (202), - wherein the first portion (201) of the protective film (21) is separable from the second portion (202) of the protective film (21) and is reversibly or irreversibly removable from the transparent region (12) of the body (10).

7. Labeled container according to claim 6, wherein the first portion (201) of the protective film (21) is connected to the second portion (202) of the protective film along a bending edge (203).

8. Labelled container according to one of claims 6 or 7, wherein the first portion (201) of the protective film (21) is at least partially connected to the second portion (202) of the protective film via a punching line (204).

9. Labelled container according to claim 2, - wherein the label (20) has at least one cover film (22) arranged over the protective film (21), - wherein the cover film (22) is opaque for at least part of the visible spectrum, - wherein the cover film (22) can be removed from the protective film (21) reversibly or irreversibly.

10. Labelled container according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the label (20) is arranged on the transparent region (12) of the body (10) such that a part (205) of the label (20) is arranged on the non-transparent region (11) of the body.

11. Labelled container according to one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the label (20) has an RFID chip (30) for detecting a lifting of the first portion (201) of the protective film (21) from the transparent area (12) of the body (10) of the container.

12. Labelled container according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the label (20) is designed such that a void effect is triggered when the protective film (21) is lifted from the transparent region (12) of the body (10).

13. Labelled container according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein a layer (40) for reducing or eliminating an adhesive force of the protective film (21) to the transparent region (12) of the body is arranged between the protective film (21) and the transparent region (12) of the body.

14. Labelled container according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the protective film (21) and the coating (13) are designed such that the protection provided is a) protection against UV radiation or b) protection against a visible spectrum or c) protection against the penetration of gases or migratory small molecular substances or water vapor into the container or d) protection against the escape of gases, migratory small molecular substances or water vapor from the container or e) protection against a temperature or f) protection against a loss of a solvent of the substance or g) protection against radioactive radiation.

15. Labelled container according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the coating (13) is formed as a protective paint or a protective varnish or a polymer layer or a protective film.

Images