Label, system and method for removing an applied label

Abstract

A label (10) for a pharmaceutical vessel (30) comprises a label layer having a first adhesion region (11) and a second adhesion region (12) which are formed at a distance from one another on an underside of the label layer, at least the first adhesion region (11) being designed to be adhesively fastened to an outer surface of the vessel (30). The label (10) also comprises an adhesion-free region (14) which is formed between the first and second adhesion regions (11, 12), the adhesion-free region (14) being designed to cover, without adhesion, the outer surface of the vessel (30). The area of the adhesion-free region (14) is larger than the area of the first adhesion region (11), so that, when the label (10) has been applied to the vessel (30) in accordance with normal operation, the label (10) lies on the outer surface of the vessel (30) largely without adhesion.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Label, system and method for removing an applied label

[0003] The present invention relates to a label for a pharmaceutical container that can contribute to a reliable and durable identification of the container's contents in a simple and cost-effective manner. The invention also relates to a system comprising such a label and a pharmaceutical container, as well as a method for removing such an applied label.

[0004] Labels are used for various purposes, including authorization, authentication, and proof of origin. For example, labeling systems are used to protect ingredients from unauthorized access or other external influences. Labels are also used to indicate, for instance, that a container has been opened. This applies to containers in the pharmaceutical and medical sectors, whose contents need to be labeled.

[0005] The invention aims to contribute to a reliable and sustainable marking of a vessel in a simple and cost-effective manner.

[0006] The problem is solved by the features of the independent patent claims. Advantageous further developments are specified in the respective dependent patent claims.

[0007] According to one aspect of the invention, a label for a pharmaceutical container comprises a label layer with a first adhesive area and a second adhesive area, which are spaced apart from each other on an underside of the label layer. At least the first adhesive area is designed to be adhesively attached to an outer surface or circumferential area of ​​the container. The label also comprises a non-adhesive area formed between the first and the second adhesive areas. The non-adhesive area is designed to cover the outer surface of the container without adhesive. The non-adhesive area is larger than the first adhesive area, so that, in a normally applied state, the label is predominantly affixed to the outer surface of the container without adhesive.

[0008] Using the described label design, pharmaceutical containers such as syringes, autoinjectors, pens, vials, ampoules, breakable glass vials, or injection bottles can be reliably and sustainably labeled. The label covers most of the outer surface, which can also be referred to as the container's outer surface or circumference, without adhesive. This allows for easy reprocessing and reuse of the label and, in particular, the labeled container itself after use. The label's design thus facilitates deliberate removal and contributes to the sustainable use of both the label and the container it affixes.

[0009] It is a finding related to the present invention that a label manufacturer typically focuses on developing the best possible self-adhesive label. However, this conflicts with the need for effective recyclability. For the reusability of components, such as a container in the form of an autoinjector, it is therefore desirable to be able to remove the label from the autoinjector as easily and completely as possible after use. The described label structure enables simple, automated, and sustainable removal of the label from a container.

[0010] No time-consuming cleaning processes using washing solutions, solvents, or similar substances are required, thus enabling recycling or reuse of components. Conventional cleaning processes require the entire surface of the label adhesive to be wetted with washing solutions. Furthermore, the cleaning process requires a certain contact time, which is relatively long and therefore leads to a lengthy reprocessing process. The label material from conventional labels cannot be fed into a recycling stream without an additional processing step. Therefore, separation by type is not possible. Moreover, the surface of the container to be cleaned can be damaged or even rendered unusable by aggressive substances and / or processing steps in a conventional cleaning process.The described label design and the predominantly non-adhesive underside covering the outer surface of the container counteract the described adverse effects. After removing the label, the previously labeled container can be cleaned in a significantly shorter and less labor-intensive manner. Depending on the proportion of the non-adhesive area, cleaning processes can be reduced by up to 90% compared to a fully adhesive label, for example, in terms of time, material costs, and the amount of environmentally problematic cleaning agents required. Furthermore, the risk of damage to the outer surface of the container is reduced due to the lower cleaning requirements.

[0011] The adhesive-free area can be created by either removing the adhesive from the label layer in that section or by applying an adhesive weakening agent that reduces the adhesive strength. Furthermore, multiple adhesive-free areas can be provided, which can accordingly also be referred to as areas with reduced adhesive strength or adhesive-neutral areas. The label is designed so that the area directly surrounding the outer surface of the container largely covers the container without adhesive.

[0012] The non-adhesive area of ​​the label, which directly surrounds the container, is specifically designed to fit the container, such that it covers at least 50% of the container's circumference without adhesive along one of its circumferences. Alternatively, the first adhesive area, and optionally any further adhesive areas intended to come into contact with the outer surface of the container, cover up to 50% of the area to be labeled. Preferably, the non-adhesive area is designed to match the geometry of the container such that it covers 75-95% of the area to be labeled without adhesive along the entire circumference of the container.In particular, the non-adhesive area can be pre-configured in coordination with the first and, if applicable, the second or further adhesive areas so that the underside of the label, which covers the outer surface, is as free of adhesive as possible while still ensuring sufficiently reliable adhesion of the label to the container. For example, the label is designed for a particularly narrow autoinjector with a diameter of 10 mm. The first adhesive area can then cover, for example, approximately 10% of the outer surface and thus be approximately 3 mm wide in the circumferential direction. Accordingly, approximately 90% of the circumferential surface of the autoinjector would be covered by the non-adhesive area, which, according to this embodiment, would be approximately 28 mm wide.

[0013] The label is preferably applied tightly to the container or wrapped around it. The non-adhesive area directly surrounds the container's circumferential surface and can make partial or predominantly to completely contact with it. Alternatively, the non-adhesive area can directly surround the container's circumferential surface without making contact. At least the first adhesive area must be applied to the outer surface of the container to adhere the label to the container to a predetermined extent. In the following description, the invention is primarily described in connection with the outer surface, which is the outer or circumferential surface of a container body. The outer surface covered by the label refers to an area of ​​the container to be labeled and not necessarily to the entire outer surface of the container, since, as a rule, not the entire outer surface of a container is labeled.

[0014] The area to be labeled can be an external surface in the area of ​​the container closure, as an alternative to the circumferential surface of the container body, or it can include such an area in addition to the circumferential surface of the container body if the label is intended to label or also label the area of ​​the container closure. For example, the outer bottom surface of the container is not usually labeled, but can also be labeled if necessary. The non-adhesive area, as well as the first and any subsequent adhesive areas, are to be understood as referring to the area to be labeled on the outer surface of the container. For example, the label may have an additional adhesive area in an upper section, which, when applied, adheres to itself and seals itself above the container and / or at a distance from the container closure.Such an adhesive area is therefore not intended for labeling in contact with the container. Accordingly, the area to be labeled, which is directly surrounded by the first adhesive area and the non-adhesive area, remains predominantly wrapped without adhesive. The same applies to a label design in the form of a wraparound label, which at least partially lies on itself. One or more adhesive areas intended for the label to adhere to itself are therefore not intended for labeling in contact with the container. Here, too, the area to be labeled, which is directly surrounded by the first adhesive area and the non-adhesive area, remains predominantly wrapped without adhesive. If the label is also to be affixed to an end face and / or a bottom surface, these areas form sections of a labeling surface and create positions that, like the outer surface, must be cleaned later.However, in the case of a properly applied label on the container, the label is always predominantly attached to the outer surface of the container without adhesive.

[0015] In the context of this description, terms such as "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "top," and "bottom" refer to positions and orientations as they occur during the intended operational use of the label. Thus, a top side faces an external surface or away from the container and typically displays information such as printing and / or lettering. The bottom side, accordingly, faces the container body or the container itself. A leading or pre-applied label edge refers to the label edge that is applied to the container first, according to the application direction. The application direction, for example, represents the direction in which the label is applied to the container. A trailing or post-applied label edge is the opposite label edge, which is usually pressed down last when wrapping the label around the syringe or container.A vascular occlusion essentially forms the head of the vessel and is usually located on top of the vessel body. Accordingly, the vessel body can be considered the lower part of the vessel.

[0016] The label can cover a portion of the circumference of the container being labeled or cover the entire circumference, so that after application, a leading or front edge of the label meets a trailing or rear edge. Accordingly, the first and second adhesive areas are designed to be bonded to the outer surface of the container. These two adhesive areas can be smaller or narrower compared to a label design where only the first adhesive area is intended to adhere to the outer surface. However, the non-adhesive area remains larger than the combined area of ​​the first and second adhesive areas, so that, in a properly applied state where the label is affixed to the container, the label is predominantly bonded to the outer surface of the container without adhesive.

[0017] Alternatively, according to a preferred embodiment, the label is designed as a wraparound label tailored to the container. When applied to the container as intended, the wraparound label covers the outer surface of the container completely and predominantly without adhesive, so that at least part of the underside of the second adhesive area lies on the top side of the label. As a wraparound label, the label has dimensions appropriate to its intended use on the container being labeled. Accordingly, its width along the application direction is greater than the circumference of the container. Therefore, when wrapped around the container, the label at least partially or partially overlaps itself. It thus provides maximum protection for the contents of the container, for example, against certain substances (such as oxygen) and radiation (such as...).UV light), ready.

[0018] The label's length can also be tailored to the dimensions of the container. Pharmaceutical containers are often cylindrical and essentially rotationally symmetrical, so a longitudinal axis of the label is usually aligned parallel to a central axis, cylinder axis, and / or axis of rotation during application. The label is rotated around the container during application, thus enclosing it. The length of the label in the vertical direction or parallel to the container's longitudinal axis typically extends perpendicular to the container's width or circumference. The label's length can be designed to cover the container as much as possible or even extend beyond it, for example, by sealing it above the container's closure and / or below the container's base, such as by gluing and / or welding.At least the part of the label that comes into contact with the outer surface in the circumferential direction or that surrounds it is predominantly designed without adhesive.

[0019] According to a further development of the label, the first and second adhesive areas are located on opposite edges of the label, relative to the application direction. These two adhesive areas can be directly adjacent to their respective label edges or spaced somewhat apart from them. The edge of the label thus comprises an area at or at least near the respective label edge and is clearly distinguishable from a central area.

[0020] For example, the second adhesive area, relative to the application direction of the label, can be associated with a trailing edge of the label, with a non-adhesive area between the trailing edge and the second adhesive area. Such a non-adhesive label edge can provide a section for gripping and peeling off the label, which is predominantly non-adhesive on the container.

[0021] According to a further development, the label features a perforation extending from an edge of the label into the non-adhesive area. This deliberate weakening of the label layer can, as an alternative or in addition to the previously described non-adhesive label edge, create a section for opening the label. In particular, the perforation can be located entirely within the non-adhesive area and extend from one edge of the label to the opposite edge. The label can then be easily separated along the perforation in the non-adhesive area, so that after cutting, for example, two label sections remain attached to the container in the form of protruding wings, which can subsequently be easily peeled off.Alternatively or additionally to perforation, a tear strip, die-cut, slit, and / or crease can be provided in the label layer to enable controlled and, in particular, automated cutting of the label and removal from the container. The label can also have a second or further perforations, such that, for example, another perforation is formed essentially parallel to the first perforation in the non-adhesive area, together creating a continuous tear strip.

[0022] According to a further development, the label has at least one opening element, which is formed at an edge of the label and / or in the non-adhesive area and which, in the case of the label being applied to the container as intended, provides a section for opening or separating the label. Such an opening element can be realized by the previously described non-adhesive label edge, which allows the label to be gripped and peeled off. Alternatively or additionally, the previously described perforation can create an opening element that allows the label to be opened, separated, or peeled off. Alternatively or additionally, an opening cutout can be provided, which, for example, creates a gripping section at a label edge for opening or peeling off the label.Alternatively or additionally, the label may include an opening element in the form of an opening tab, which provides a section for opening the label applied to the container.

[0023] The label can also be designed such that the first and / or second adhesive area comprises a predefined adhesive pattern with multiple adhesive sections. For example, a striped pattern can provide a beneficial adhesive property and further reduce the adhesive area on the underside of the label, thus contributing to a preferentially low-adherence application. Accordingly, cleaning processes can be reduced in terms of time and / or effort.

[0024] The label may also have a third or further adhesive areas formed on the underside of the label layer, spaced apart from and between the first and second adhesive areas, and designed to adhere to the outer surface of the container. Such a third adhesive area can, for example, interrupt the non-adhesive area and further contribute to reliable adhesion of the label to the container. Accordingly, several separate non-adhesive areas may also be provided, together forming a total non-adhesive area in the immediate vicinity of the outer surface of the container, which is larger than the total area of ​​the adhesive areas in contact with the surface of the container.Adhesive areas of the label that lie on themselves as an over-the-top label can be larger in area than the non-adhesive area, since these adhesive areas generally do not contribute to soiling or residue on the container.

[0025] According to a further development of the label, adhesive areas can be formed in the form of one or more adhesive strips and / or an adhesive frame, which are located on the underside of the label layer and are designed to be adhesively attached to the outer surface of the container. Such an adhesive strip and / or adhesive frame is preferably formed at the edge of the label and divides and / or limits the non-adhesive area. Such edge-adjacent adhesive areas can protect an inner section of the non-adhesive area from dirt and external influences and also contribute to a reliable attachment of the label to the container. Preferably, the adhesive areas that come into contact with the outer surface of the container are relatively narrow or thin, so that, on the one hand, an adhesive effect is achieved, and on the other hand, the largest possible area remains non-adhesive.

[0026] In particular, the adhesive strength of each adhesive area, including the previously described adhesive strip and / or adhesive frame, can be tailored to the adhesive bond to the container and may vary. For example, the adhesive strength of the first adhesive area may be weaker than that of the second. Such a design is particularly suitable for wraparound labels, ensuring that the first adhesive area provides a reliable bond to the container while leaving relatively little residue after removal and allowing for easy cleaning. The first adhesive area preferably uses a relatively narrow adhesive strip to bond the label to the container. This allows for easy removal of the label, ideally without or with significantly less cleaning solution.The stronger adhesive strength of the second adhesive area ensures particularly reliable label adhesion and generally leaves no residue on the container, thus preventing any adverse effects on cleaning and reprocessing. Furthermore, the size of each adhesive area can be tailored to the specific adhesive, depending on the application and / or customer requirements. For example, the first adhesive area can be particularly narrow and use a high-strength adhesive. Alternatively, the first adhesive area can be wider and use a medium or low-strength adhesive, ensuring reliable label adhesion and minimizing cleaning effort after label removal.The same applies to the other adhesive areas and to the adhesive strip(s) and adhesive frame(s), which also form adhesive areas.

[0027] An adhesive or the adhesive properties of a given adhesive area can be applied partially or neutralized. For example, a manufacturer may source a fully adhesive label material for at least one label layer, which is then partially overprinted with a so-called adhesive killer to neutralize or weaken the adhesive strength, thus creating or limiting one or more adhesive areas. Accordingly, different levels of adhesive strength can be achieved. The printing with an adhesive killer can be done in various structures and layouts. Adhesive properties can be achieved, for example, through a resin-, rubber-, and / or acrylic-based adhesive. An adhesive label material can also be referred to as a gummed label material.

[0028] Alternatively, a non-gummed label material, which has no adhesive properties, can be used as the label layer. This non-adhesive label material can be partially printed with one or more predefined adhesives to create areas with varying adhesive strengths and to define or delineate one or more adhesive-free areas.

[0029] Due to varying adhesive strengths, label areas with a relatively high adhesive strength, for example in an overlap area of ​​a wraparound label, can be set up, while, for example, the first adhesive area for sticking the label to the container is designed with a medium or low adhesive strength.

[0030] Furthermore, areas with low or no adhesive strength can be created.

[0031] According to a further development, the label features an RFID transponder that is either attached to or integrated into the label and comprises an RFID chip and an antenna structure that are signal-coupled. The RFID transponder is preferably located on or within an edge area, particularly in the first adhesive area. With regard to a wraparound label, the RFID transponder can be securely and protected by the overlapping edge area of ​​the label. The antenna structure can include a tamper loop that extends into a predefined section of the label, for example, across a perforation. Thus, if the label is torn, this event can be detected electronically.Alternatively or additionally, the antenna structure can include a conductive trace extending into a cut area of ​​the label, so that when the label is cut and removed, this event can be detected electronically. In this way, an electronic tamper detection system can be implemented. The label can also alternatively or additionally incorporate functionality based on another wireless standard, such as Bluetooth LE. Furthermore, active systems, including a power supply integrated into or attached to the label, are also possible.

[0032] The label can be single- or multi-layered. Furthermore, the label can have one or more barrier layers. Each barrier layer can be a plastic film element providing a gas-tight coating on the inside or underside of the label. A barrier layer can block the passage of gas and / or liquid, provide protection against UV radiation, and / or offer a specified temperature resistance. The barrier layer, in particular, comprises a material that fulfills the desired barrier function. For example, the barrier layer may consist of material compositions based on EVOH (ethyl vinyl alcohol copolymer). Alternatively or additionally, the barrier layer may contain a metal oxide, such as aluminum oxide (AlOx). The barrier layer can be transparent or opaque.The label can therefore comprise one or more functional layers, each tailored to a specific intended application. A predetermined inhibition of light or electromagnetic radiation within a specified wavelength range, such as the ultraviolet and / or the visible spectrum, can be provided as a functional layer within the label.

[0033] Furthermore, the label can include security features such as special color effects and / or a void layer, which is, for example, located within or coupled to the label layer. The void layer can be positioned, for instance, below the label layer and above an adhesive layer, relative to the stacking direction. The void layer provides a void effect that offers tamper protection. For example, the void layer can be implemented with two or more structures or release gradations with different adhesive strengths. For instance, a more strongly adhesive structure in the form of lettering might be implemented within the void structure, while other sections of the void structure have a weaker adhesive.When a void structure or label with a void layer is applied to an object to be marked, upon removal of the label, for example, the more strongly adhesive lettering will remain stuck to the object, while the less adhesive sections will be removed with the label or a section of the label detached from the object. Alternatively, the described structures can also be designed with the opposite adhesive strength, so that, for example, the structure in the form of lettering is less adhesive.

[0034] Alternatively or additionally, security features in the form of perforations can be provided, creating a predefined weakening structure in one layer of the label. This allows, for example, the provision of tear points where the label tears in a predetermined manner if tampering is attempted or if the container to which it is applied is opened. Alternatively or additionally, further perforations can be provided in one or more layers of the label, enabling targeted cutting or separation of a specific layer. These perforations and / or additional perforations can be implemented separately or in conjunction with the perforation of the first and / or second label section. Such perforations and / or perforations can also serve as tamper evidence or indicate that the label has been opened.Opening the label in this way does not contradict the previously described delabeling process and can be provided as an option independently of it.

[0035] According to another aspect, a system comprises a vessel with a vessel body and a vessel closure coupled to the vessel body, and a configuration of the previously described label applied to the vessel. At least the first adhesive area is bonded to the outer surface of the vessel, and the non-adhesive area covers the outer surface of the vessel without adhesive, so that the label is predominantly bonded to the outer surface of the vessel without adhesive. The label can be designed to be bonded to the vessel body and / or the vessel closure, but predominantly bonded without adhesive.

[0036] Because the system includes a design of the described label, the properties and characteristics of the label are also revealed to the system, and vice versa.

[0037] According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for removing a label from a container according to an embodiment of the system described above comprises providing the system with the container and the label applied thereto, as well as providing an opening device with an opening element. The method further comprises moving the labeled container and the opening device relative to each other, such that the labeled container and the opening device are brought towards each other until the opening device makes contact with the label by means of the opening element. The method further comprises removing the label from the container by means of the opening element, in particular by grasping and / or cutting the label, and continuing the relative movement of the labeled container and the opening device.

[0038] The opening element comprises, for example, a gripping element that grasps an opening element, such as a non-adhesive edge, a pull tab, and / or a tear strip on the label, and pulls on it by means of a continuing relative movement, thereby removing the label from the container. The gripping and pulling force is at least stronger than the adhesive force of the first adhesive area. Alternatively or additionally, the opening element can include a cutting element, such as a cutting edge or a needle, so that, to open and remove the label, the label is contacted in the area of ​​the opening element, for example, in the form of a perforation, and cut by continuing the relative movement of the labeled container and the opening device relative to each other, so that at least two label parts are formed, starting from the first adhesive area.The label parts can then be grasped and peeled off, thus removing the label from the container.

[0039] By establishing a method for removing a feature of the described label, the properties and characteristics of the label and the system are also disclosed for the method, and vice versa. The method can be implemented in an automated and machine-guided manner. Alternatively, the method can be performed manually.

[0040] The described label structure and method for removing such an applied label enable, in particular, automated de-labeling of the label from a medical or pharmaceutical container. Especially in conjunction with a perforation or a pull tab, a predefined area of ​​the label can be severed. This results in two loose label wings, which are, for example, only still connected to the container by the first adhesive strip. The label wings can then be used to peel the label off the container. The removed label material can be collected separately and fed into a recycling stream. Adhesive areas, such as the first and second adhesive strips, can be cut off and disposed of or processed. The larger non-adhesive area of ​​the label, in particular, can be processed further with minimal effort.The delabeled container can be cleaned, reprocessed, or generally prepared for subsequent process steps in a further downstream process. This conserves resources and enables the reuse of components such as labeling material and medical or pharmaceutical containers.

[0041] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained below with reference to schematic drawings. Figures 1-14 show different embodiments of a sustainable

[0042] Labels for a pharmaceutical container,

[0043] Figures 15-16 show exemplary embodiments of a system with a sustainable label and a pharmaceutical container.

[0044] Figure 17 shows a flowchart for a procedure for removing the sustainable label from a pharmaceutical container, and

[0045] Figures 18-21 Exemplary embodiments of an opening device for carrying out a method according to Figure 17.

[0046] Elements or features of the same construction or function are identified across all figures using the same reference symbols. For clarity, not all depicted elements or features may be identified with their corresponding reference symbols in every figure.

[0047] Figures 1 to 14 each show in a schematic top view or plan view various embodiments of a label 10 for a pharmaceutical container 30, which is, for example, an autoinjector, a syringe or an injection vial.

[0048] Figures 15 and 16 show schematic side views of embodiments of a system 1 with such a label 10 applied to a container 30. Due to its design, the label 10 enables the container 30 to be permanently marked.

[0049] In the following description, terms such as "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "top," and "bottom" refer to positions and orientations as they occur during the intended operational use of the label 10 and are illustrated in the figures. Thus, the top side of the label 10, as shown in Figures 15 and 16, faces an external environment or away from the container 30 and typically displays information such as printing and / or lettering. The underside, accordingly, faces the container 30 and is partially designed to adhere to an external surface of the container 30. The container 30 includes a container closure 32, which essentially forms a head portion of the container 30 and is usually located on top of a container body 31 (see Figures 15 and 16).

[0050] According to one embodiment, the label 10 comprises a label layer with a first adhesive area 11 and a second adhesive area 12, which are spaced apart from each other on an underside of the label layer. At least the first adhesive area 11 is designed to be adhesively attached to an outer surface of the container. The label 10 further comprises an adhesive-free area 14, which is formed between the first and the second adhesive areas 11, 12. The adhesive-free area 14 is designed to cover or surround the outer surface of the container 30 without adhesive. The area of ​​the adhesive-free area 14 is larger than that of the first adhesive area 11, so that, with respect to a condition in which the label 10 is applied to the container 30 as intended, the label 10 is predominantly affixed to the outer surface of the container 30 without adhesive.

[0051] As shown in Figure 1, the two adhesive areas 11 and 12 are formed on opposite edge regions of the label 10 with respect to a longitudinal axis L and extend with a predetermined width to their respective label edge. With respect to an application direction A, the first adhesive area 11 is located on a leading or front edge of the label. Similarly, with respect to the application direction A, the second adhesive area 12 is located on a trailing or rear edge of the label.

[0052] The application direction A represents, for example, the direction in which the label 10 is attached to the container 30. According to Figure 1, the first adhesive area 11 is therefore attached to the container 30 before the second adhesive area 12, or wrapped around the container 30. The longitudinal axis L refers in particular to an orientation of the label 10 on the container 30 and therefore also represents a longitudinal axis L of the container 30 (see Figures 15 and 16). The longitudinal axis L is oriented essentially perpendicular to the application direction A. If the label 10 is designed to come into contact with the container 30 with both the first adhesive area 11 and the second adhesive area 12, the non-adhesive area 14 is designed to be larger than the first and second adhesive areas 11 and 12 combined.Preferably, the label 10 is designed as a wraparound label, tailored to the container 30 to be labeled, so that it completely and predominantly covers the outer surface of the container 30 without adhesive, and the second adhesive area 12 lies at least partially on the label 10. More precisely, when the wraparound label is wrapped, an underside of the label 10 comes into at least partial contact with an upper side of the label 10 in the section of the second adhesive area 12. In the following, the label 10 will be described predominantly in its configuration as a wraparound label.

[0053] As shown in Figure 2, the label 10 can be configured such that the second adhesive area 12, relative to the application direction A, is associated with the trailing edge of the label 10, but an adhesive-free area 15 is formed between the trailing edge of the label and the second adhesive area 12. For example, the width of the label 10 along the application direction A is designed to match the circumference of the container 30 to be labeled such that the second adhesive area 12 lies on top of the first adhesive area 11. More precisely, an underside of the label 10 in the section of the second adhesive area 12 lies on an upper side of the label 10 in the first adhesive area 11. The adhesive-free area 15 is thus separated from the container 30 by the label 10 itself.In other words, with respect to the applied state, a section of the label 10 is arranged between the non-adhesive area 15 and the outer surface of the container 30. The non-adhesive area 15 therefore does not directly surround the container 30, unlike the non-adhesive area 14. The non-adhesive area 15 can form an opening element of the label 10 as a gripping edge, providing a section for opening and / or removing the label 10 from the container 30.

[0054] According to the embodiments shown in Figures 3 and 4, the label 10 can have a perforation 16 extending from an edge region of the label 10 into or through the non-adhesive area 14. The perforation 16 can run along the application direction A, along the longitudinal direction L, or transversely thereto. Preferably, the perforation 16 extends from one edge of the label 10 to the opposite edge of the label 10 completely within the non-adhesive area 14 (see Figure 4) and enables particularly easy and controlled cutting of the applied label 10. The perforation 16 can form an opening element of the label 10 as a deliberately introduced weakening of the material, creating a section for opening the label 10 on the container 30. Thus, two label parts remain on the container 30, which are attached to the container 30 as label flags by means of the first adhesive area 11.These label flags can be easily peeled off the container 30 with minimal residue.

[0055] According to the embodiments shown in Figures 5 and 6, the label 10 can also have a further perforation 16, which extends from an edge region of the label 10 into or through the adhesive-free area 14 and is essentially parallel to the first perforation 16. Preferably, the perforation 16 is formed entirely within the adhesive-free area 14 from one edge of the label 10 to the opposite edge of the label 10 (see Figure 4) and enables particularly easy and controlled cutting of the applied label 10. The perforations 16, as deliberately introduced material weakenings, form an opening element of the label 10 in the form of a tear strip, which creates a section for opening the label 10 on the container 30. The remaining material then...

[0056] Label tabs or label parts can be easily peeled off the container 30 with minimal residue. Preferably, the label 10 includes an opening tab 17, which is positioned to correspond to one or more perforations 16 on a label edge (see Figures 5 and 6). The opening tab 17 can be gripped and facilitates tearing open the perforations 16. The tear strip can be located centrally or offset from the center of the label and may optionally run transversely.

[0057] Furthermore, Figure 6 indicates that the tear strip defined by the perforations 16 creates a third adhesive area 13, such that the corresponding section on the underside of the label 10 is adhesive. The third adhesive area 13 separates the non-adhesive area 14 into two separate sections. Alternatively, the third adhesive area 13 can also extend only partially along the underside of the label 10 and does not necessarily have to extend from one label edge to the opposite label edge. The third adhesive area 13 contributes to a reliable attachment of the label 10 to the container and can also counteract unintentional tearing of the label 10 along the perforations 16. In the configuration of a wraparound label, for example, the first and third adhesive areas 11, 13 come into contact with the outer surface of the container 30.Accordingly, the non-adhesive area 14, or the sections belonging to it, has a larger surface area than the first and third adhesive areas 11 and 13 combined. This ensures that the label 10, as shown in Figure 6, is predominantly affixed to the outer surface of the container 30 without adhesive.

[0058] Figures 7 to 13 show further embodiments of the label 10, in which the first and second adhesive areas 11, 12 have a predefined adhesive pattern and / or further adhesive areas 13, 18, 19, 21 are provided. For example, the first and / or the second adhesive area 11, 12 has a striped pattern of alternating adhesive strips and non-adhesive strips, which, compared to full-surface adhesive areas, reduces the proportion of adhesive area on the container 30 and / or the label 10 and yet still contributes sufficiently to a reliable attachment to the container 30 and / or the label 10 (see Figure 7). The non-adhesive strips can then optionally be assigned to the non-adhesive area 14 if the corresponding areas are located adjacent to the outer surface of the container 30 in the applied state. This is the case in the first adhesive area 11, which is provided for adhering the label 10 to the container 30.

[0059] Figure 8 shows an embodiment of the label 10, which has further adhesive areas in the form of adhesive frames 18 arranged between the first and second adhesive areas 11, 12, and which circumferentially delimit and / or separate the sections of the non-adhesive area 14. According to Figure 8, the non-adhesive area 14, which directly surrounds an area to be labeled on the outer surface of the container 30, consists of two inner rectangles, each delimited by a self-contained adhesive frame 18, and a central strip delimited by the opposing outer edges of the two adhesive frames 18. Alternatively, only one adhesive frame 18 may be provided, and / or an adhesive frame may not be self-contained but only delimited on three sides (see Figure 10).

[0060] Figure 9 shows an embodiment of the label 10, which has additional adhesive areas in the form of narrow adhesive strips 19 formed on opposite edges of the label 10 along the application direction A. Except for the upper and lower sections of the central tear strip, the non-adhesive area 14 is bounded by the first and second adhesive areas 11, 12 and the four adhesive strips 19. Alternatively, more or fewer adhesive strips 19 can be provided, which do not necessarily have to be formed directly on a respective label edge. Figures 11 to 13 show various embodiments of the label 10 in which strip-shaped adhesive areas 13 and 21 are formed, extending elongately in the vertical direction or in the direction of the longitudinal axis L.The position, shape and size of the respective adhesive areas 11, 12, 13, 18, 19 and / or 21 are designed in particular to suit the intended use and the geometry and properties of the vessel 30.

[0061] Figure 14 shows another embodiment of the label 10, which includes an RFID transponder 20 that is arranged on the label 10 or integrated into the label 10, for example, in an inner label layer. The RFID transponder 20 has an RFID chip and an antenna structure that are signal-coupled. The RFID transponder 20 is formed, for example, in the first adhesive area 11 and assigned to the leading edge area of ​​the label 10. After the container 30 is wrapped with the label 10, the second adhesive area 12 lies on top of the first adhesive area 11 and covers the RFID transponder 20, protecting it against unwanted external influences. The RFID transponder 20 can be separated from the third adhesive area 13 in the first adhesive area 11 by means of a perforation 16 and remains, for example, permanently attached to the container 30.The remaining RFID transponder 20 can, for example, serve for identification, as a patient diary (reversible), or for providing further information, links, etc. In this context, the RFID transponder must be designed and / or positioned in such a way that it survives cleaning of the container. Figures 15 and 16 show schematic side views of a system 1, which comprises an embodiment of the container 30 and the label 10 attached to the container 30. The label 10 is adhesively attached to the outer surface of the container 30 at least by means of the first adhesive area 11, while the non-adhesive area 14 surrounds the outer surface of the container 30 without adhesive. Thus, the label 10 is predominantly attached to the outer surface of the container 30 without adhesive. The containers 30 in Figures 15 and 16 are, for example, essentially rotationally symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis L.Figure 15 shows that the label 10 is attached to the outer surface or circumferential surface of the vessel body 31, which can define a labeling area of ​​the outer surface of the vessel 30. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 16, the label 10 can also be applied in the area of ​​the vessel closure 32, either adhesively or without adhesive. Alternatively or additionally, the label 10 can be applied in an area of ​​a threaded part of the vessel, either adhesively or without adhesive. A perforation in the area of ​​the vessel closure can also facilitate opening the vessel with the label 10 applied to it and indicate that it has been opened for the first time.

[0062] Removing the label 10 applied to the container 30 with an opening tab 17, for example according to figures 6 to 11, can be carried out according to the flow diagram in figure 17 as follows:

[0063] In step S1, for example, system 1 is provided with the container 30 and the label 10 applied to it. In step S1 or a subsequent step, an opening device 40 with an opening part 41 can also be provided. The opening part 41 can be designed as a gripping element, such as tweezers, as a cutting edge or blade, or as a needle or edge, or it can include such elements (see Figures 18 to 21).

[0064] In step S2, the labeled container 30 and the opening device 40 are moved towards each other. Such a relative movement can be achieved, for example, as illustrated in Figure 18, by bringing the opening device 40 towards the container 30 until the opening part 41 contacts the label 10 at the opening tab 17, grasps and holds it, and is then moved along the container 30 to open the label 10 along the perforations 16. The opening tab 17 can also be provided in conjunction with only one perforation 16 and / or a tear strip. Preferably, the opening tab 17 is non-adhesive and preferably has a pop-up function so that it can be raised to open the label 10 or folded away from or upwards from the container 30 for easier gripping.After grasping the opening tab 17 and removing the bridge formed by the perforations 16, two mostly loose label wings remain, forming protruding label parts which can be removed in a further step S3. The label wings are connected to each other and to the container 30 by means of the first adhesive area 11.

[0065] The opening or gripping tab 17 can, for example, be provided with a perforation or a hinged die-cut for easier gripping during a de-labeling process, which facilitates standing it upright. Furthermore, the opening tab 17 can be laminated with a shrink film that contracts when exposed to heat, thus creating an opening effect. Alternatively or additionally, the opening tab 17 can be coated with a thermally sensitive varnish layer that causes the opening tab 17 to stand upright or bend when exposed to heat. Preferably, the opening tab 17 is printed with silicone varnish on the reverse or underside facing the container 30 and / or is designed to be non-adhesive to allow for simplified, and in particular automated, lifting to open the label 10.Furthermore, the opening tab 17 can be formed on a label edge or spaced apart from a label edge on the label 10, enabling the label 10 to be opened. In addition, two or more opening tabs 17 can be provided, which also enable the label 10 to be opened.

[0066] The opening flap 17 can alternatively or additionally be configured to be opened by ultrasound, partial heating, compressed air, and / or UV radiation. Alternatively or additionally, the opening flap 17 can be configured to be opened based on the bimetallic effect due to differing material expansions and / or due to electrosensitive adhesives where the adhesive force can be changed by applying a potential. Alternatively or additionally, a Braille ink, Braille dot, or spacer can be printed on the underside of the opening flap 17, each creating a gap to the outer surface of the vessel 30 and thus facilitating gripping of the opening flap 17. Alternatively or additionally, a spacer can be formed on the underside of the opening flap 17 by laminating a relatively thick foil frame.

[0067] In step S3, the label wings can be gripped and peeled off by means of the opening part 41 or another component of the opening device 40 and easily removed from the container 30. The opening device 40 can, for example, have two grippers that peel off the label 10. Alternatively, the label 10 can also be peeled off by only one gripper on one label wing. An adhesive hatch parallel to or in the peel direction of the label 10, as indicated in the first or second adhesive area 11, 12 in Figure 7, can facilitate peeling the label 10 from the container 30 and reduce any adhesive residue on the surface of the container 30.

[0068] Figures 19 to 21 show an alternative embodiment of the opening device 40, which, adapted to the shape of the container 30, has a cylindrical guide channel 42 in which the container 30 can be reliably held and guided. The opening element 41 is, for example, arranged in a base surface of the guide channel 42, so that the applied label 10 can be removed from the container 30 or opened by moving the labeled container 30 in the guide channel 42 towards the opening element 41. The resulting label flaps can be removed as described previously in step S3.

[0069] In this way, the applied label 10, due to its predominantly non-adhesive structure, can be easily and, in particular, automatically opened and removed from the container 30. Compared to a conventional label, which typically has a fully adhesive underside, the described label 10 leaves significantly less adhesive residue on the outer surface of the container 30 due to the first adhesive area 11. This adhesive residue is significantly smaller in area than with conventional labels, and therefore a subsequent cleaning and reprocessing process can be carried out much more quickly and efficiently. A possible, especially automated, removal or de-labeling process for the container 30, using an autoinjector or pen, could be as follows:

[0070] The label 10 encloses the round container body 31 and has a non-adhesive or weakly adhesive central area extending axially along the longitudinal axis L. This area is perforated on both sides by the perforations 16 and has a non-adhesive opening flap 17. The label 10 is to be mechanically separated by means of the opening device 40, for example according to Figure 18.

[0071] A finger element with a clamping mechanism moves over the label 10 and the opening flap 17. The finger element with the clamping mechanism is, for example, implemented by the opening part 41 and is pressed onto the pen. During the subsequent return movement, the opening flap 17 slides into the clamping mechanism and is held there. During the further return movement, the perforations 16 separate, and the label 10 is divided. The mechanical movement can be pneumatic, electric, and / or robotic. The now formed side label wings can then be peeled off using a suitable method.

[0072] An alternative, particularly automated, removal or de-labeling process for the container 30 in the form of an autoinjector or pen can be carried out using the opening device 40 according to Figures 19 to 21. The pen is inserted into the guide channel 42 and pushed over the opening device 40. The opening tab 17 engages in the clamping mechanism of the opening part 41, and during the subsequent movement, the perforations 16 separate.

[0073] The described designs of the sustainable label 10 enable, among other things, one or more of the following advantages:

[0074] • Protection of sensitive primary vessels 30 with regard to optics: Sensitive surfaces are no longer fully coated with adhesive and can therefore be more easily reprocessed and intended for recycling / reuse.

[0075] • Mechanical fixation of the two halves of an autoinjector, as implemented by the vessel 30, plus intended disassembly: Should a manufacturer of the autoinjector plan, for example, to produce an autoinjector from two halves that are not mechanically connected (e.g., by means of hooks, snaps, etc.), the label 10 has a supporting, mechanical function in addition to providing information. The presented label design facilitates the desired disassembly of the autoinjector.

[0076] A base material for the label layer can be provided as an adhesive or non-adhesive material, so that the respective adhesive areas 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 21 and the non-adhesive areas 14, 15 can be formed by applying an adhesive weakening agent and / or an adhesive. The label 10 can accordingly be configured as a gummed or adhesive film element or by printing adhesive onto a non-gummed or non-adhesive film element. For example, a self-adhesive film can be used as the label layer for the label 10, which must be applied precisely to the container 30, but advantageously allows for easy removal from the container 30.

[0077] The adhesive areas 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 21 can be specifically tailored to their intended application and position on the container 30 and may exhibit varying degrees of adhesive strength. In the figures, the different adhesive strengths are indicated by the density of the dot structure in the respective areas, with a denser dot structure representing a greater adhesive strength. For example, the first adhesive area 11 is preferably designed with a weaker adhesive than the second adhesive area 12, so that less adhesive residue remains on the container 30 after the label 10 has been removed. Such an embodiment is shown by way of example in Figures 1, 3, and 4. In the case of a wraparound label, the second adhesive area 12 can also be designed with a particularly strong adhesive, since it lies on top of and adheres to the label 10 itself and therefore leaves no residue on the outer surface of the container 30.

[0078] The label 10 can have double perforations 16 that interact with a grip or opening tab 17, allowing a section of the label 10 to be removed (see Figures 6-11). Such a section can also have an adhesive effect and create an adhesive area that, after labeling, is positioned opposite an overlap area where the second adhesive area 12 lies on top of the first adhesive area 11 (see Figure 6). Alternatively, such a section can be non-adhesive. A non-adhesive section can be advantageous, for example, in conjunction with adjacent adhesive bars that form adhesive strips 19 and / or adhesive frames 18 (see Figures 8-11). This helps ensure that the label 10 remains adhered to the container 30 even if a user or patient unintentionally removes the section.The adhesive strips, in particular the edge-mounted adhesive strips 19 and / or adhesive frames 18, also help to keep contaminants away from under the label 10, since there is generally no adhesive present on the underside of the label 10 in the non-adhesive area 14. The adhesive strips 19 and / or adhesive frames 18, for example, have a low adhesive strength, as indicated by the light dot structure in Figures 8 to 10, in order to prevent dirt and dust from getting under the label 10 or between the container 30 and the label 10.

[0079] The described label 10 is preferably designed to be attached to the container 30 with a mostly non-adhesive backing, but still with a reliable adhesive quality. Accordingly, a reliable marking of the container 30 and its contents can be established, which is relatively easy to remove with minimal residue. Using the described embodiments of the label structure of the label 10, for example, autoinjectors or syringes, or other pharmaceutical containers such as vials or injection bottles, can be reliably and automatically labeled and also de-labeled. Due to the label structure, the components used can be sustainably recycled or reused.

[0080] Reference symbol list

[0081] I System

[0082] 10 labels

[0083] II first adhesive area

[0084] 12 second Kleb eb er ei ch

[0085] 13 third Kl eb eb erei ch

[0086] 14 adhesive-free area

[0087] 15 adhesive-free area / opening element

[0088] 16 Perforation / Opening element

[0089] 17 Opening tab / opening element

[0090] 18 adhesive frames

[0091] 19 adhesive strips

[0092] 20 RFID transponders

[0093] 21 additional adhesive area

[0094] 30 containers / syringes

[0095] 31 Vessel body / Syringe body

[0096] 32 Container closure / Syringe closure

[0097] 40 Opening device

[0098] 41 Opening part

[0099] 42 Guide channel

[0100] A. Application direction of the label

[0101] L Longitudinal axis of the vessel

[0102] S(i) Steps of a procedure for removing an applied label from a

[0103] vessel

Claims

Patent claims 1. Label (10) for a pharmaceutical container (30), comprising: - a label layer with a first adhesive area (11) and a second adhesive area (12) which are spaced apart from each other on an underside of the label layer, wherein at least the first adhesive area (11) is configured to be adhesively attached to an outer surface of the vessel (30), and - an adhesive-free area (14) formed between the first and the second adhesive area (11, 12), wherein the adhesive-free area (14) is designed to cover the outer surface of the container (30) without adhesive, and wherein the adhesive-free area (14) is larger in area than the first adhesive area (11), such that, with reference to an operationally applied state of the label (10) on the container (30), the label (10) is predominantly affixed to the outer surface of the container (30) without adhesive.

2. Label (10) according to claim 1, which is designed as a wraparound label in accordance with the vessel (30) and, with reference to an operationally applied state of the label (10) on the vessel (30), the outer surface of the vessel (30) is covered all around and predominantly without adhesive by the label (10) and the second adhesive area (12) lies at least partially on the label (10).

3. Label (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first adhesive area (11) and the second adhesive area (12) are formed on opposite edge areas of the label (10) with respect to an application direction (A).

4. Label (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second adhesive area (12) is assigned to an edge area of ​​the label (10) with respect to an application direction (A) of the label (10), wherein an adhesive-free area (15) is formed between the edge of the label (10) and the second adhesive area (12).

5. Label (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second adhesive area (12) is configured to adhere to the outer surface of the vessel (30) to be adhesively attached, and in which the non-adhesive area (14) is larger in area than the first and second adhesive areas (11, 12) combined.

6. Label (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the non-adhesive area (14) is arranged to cover at least 50% of the circumference along a circumferential direction of the vessel (30) in accordance with the vessel (30).

7. Label (10) according to claim 6, wherein the non-adhesive area (14) is arranged in accordance with the vessel (30) to cover 75-95% of the circumference without adhesive along the circumferential direction of the vessel.

8. Label (10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising: a perforation (16) which is formed starting from an edge area of ​​the label (10) in the adhesive-free area (14).

9. Label (10) according to claim 8, wherein the perforation (16) from one edge of the label (10) to the opposite edge of the label (10) is formed completely in the adhesive-free area (14).

10. Label (10) according to claim 8 or 9, comprising: a further perforation (16) which is formed substantially parallel to the perforation (16) in the adhesive-free area (14).

11. Label (10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising: at least one opening element (15, 16, 17) which is formed on an edge region of the label (10) and / or in the adhesive-free area (14) and which, with reference to an operationally applied state of the label (10) on the container (30), provides a section for opening or separating the label (10).

12. Label (10) according to claim 11, wherein the opening element comprises a perforation (16) and / or an opening tab (17) which, in relation to an operationally applied state of the label (10) on the container (30), each provide a section for opening the label (10).

13. Label (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first adhesive area (11) and / or the second adhesive area (12) comprise a predetermined adhesive pattern with a plurality of adhesive sections.

14. Label (10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising: a third adhesive area (13) formed on an underside of the label layer and spaced apart from and between the first and the second adhesive area (11, 12) to be adhesively attached to the outer surface of the container (30).

15. Label (10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising: an adhesive strip (19) and / or an adhesive frame (18) formed on an underside of the label layer and configured to be adhesively attached to the outer surface of the container (30), wherein the adhesive strip (19) and / or the adhesive frame (18) are formed on the edge of the label (10) and divide and / or limit the non-adhesive area (14).

16. Label (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the adhesive strength of the adhesive areas (11, 12, 13, 14), the adhesive strip (19) and / or the adhesive frame (18) is designed to be suitable for adhesive attachment to the container (30), wherein the first adhesive area (11) has a weaker adhesive strength than the second adhesive area (12).

17. Label (10) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising: an RFID transponder (20) arranged on or integrated into the label (10) and comprising an RFID chip and an antenna structure which are signal-technically coupled to each other.

18. Label (10) according to claim 17, wherein the RFID transponder (20) is formed on or in the first adhesive area (11) and is assigned to an edge area of ​​the label (10).

19. System (1), comprising: - a pharmaceutical vessel (30) with a vessel body (31) and a vessel closure (32) coupled to the vessel body (31), and - a label (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which is applied to the vessel (30) such that at least the first adhesive area (11) is adhesively attached to an outer surface of the vessel (30) and the non-adhesive area (14) covers the outer surface of the vessel (30) without adhesive, so that the label (10) is predominantly attached to the outer surface of the vessel (30) without adhesive.

20. System (1) according to claim 19, wherein the label (10) is designed in accordance with the vessel (30) such that it is attached to the vessel body (31) and to the vessel closure (32) in an adhesive but predominantly non-adhesive manner.

21. Method for removing a label (10) from a pharmaceutical container (30) according to a system (1) according to claim 19 or 20, comprising: - Providing the system (1) according to claim 19 or 20, - Providing an opening device (40) with an opening part (41), - Moving the container (30) with the label (10) relative to the opening device (40) so that the container (30) with the label (10) and the opening device (40) are brought towards each other until the opening device (40) contacts the label (10) by means of the opening part (41), and - Removing the label (10) from the container (30) using the opening element (41).

22. Method according to claim 21, wherein the opening part (41) comprises a gripping element and the label (10) is designed according to claim 11, comprising: - Gripping the opening element (15) by means of the gripping element, and - Peel back and thereby remove the label (10) from the container (30) using the gripping element.

23. Method according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the opening part (41) comprises a gripping element and / or a cutting element and the label (10) is configured according to claim 11, comprising: - Contacting and / or gripping the opening element (16, 17) by means of the Cutting element and / or gripping element, - Cutting the label (10) by means of the cutting element and / or gripping element, so that at least starting from the first adhesive area (11) two label parts are formed, and - Peel back the label parts and thereby remove the label (10) from the container (30).

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