Patent Description:
In the context of bottling of high quality and valued beverages, closure elements having anti-tampering means are used. In particular, a known closure element comprises a transponder, such as an RFID tag (sometimes also called IC tag), which is modified in its structure when opened.

An RFID tag generally comprises a chip and an antenna, as well as sometimes a piece of control loop separately connected to the chip. When opening the closure member, either the antenna can be interrupted so that the chip cannot be read out any more, or the piece of loop can be interrupted to thus change the state of the chip. In particular, the interruption of the antenna or loop is realized by rotating the closure member with the tag with respect to the neck of the bottle/neck label).

If, in the unopened state, the chip is interrogated by bringing a reading device (for example in a mobile phone) close to the antenna, the transponder in the RFID tag communicates its unopened state. If the transponder is interrogated after the piece of loop has been interrupted upon opening the closure, it communicates that the closure member has been opened. If the antenna has been interrupted, readout is no longer possible, and the user should be wary.

Conventionally, the antenna or the control loop is interrupted by using a cutting means or the like.

Therefore, if the RFID tag or a part thereof is damaged, readout is affected, and the consumer can recognize that the closure member has been removed or that an attempt to manipulate the closure member should be considered.

An example of the prior art can be seen in document <CIT>.

In the industry, it is particularly desired to provide high-value beverages such as wine and spirits with closures like the above. However, closure members like the above are complicated in manufacturing and in assembling onto the bottle or container. In addition, as in the known closure members a mechanical break is strictly necessary to perform the anti-tempering function, a great precision in their manufacturing is necessary and, sometimes, the reliability of the closure elements is not completely satisfying.

Indeed, the cutting means has to be designed and realized with high precision to ensure that the interaction between the cutting means and the part of the RFID tag to break is effective.

As mentioned, the interruption of the control loop causes a change of the properties of the closure element which can be detected by means of a suitable reader, in particular a change of the state of the chip to which the control loop is connected, and thus a change of the readout signal. In this respect, the chip may be configured to set the status to undisturbed/disturbed in response to an undisturbed/disturbed state of the control loop. For example, the status of the control loop is set to the disturbed status in response to a change in either an inductance or a capacitance of the control loop when it is cut or broken.

Disadvantageously, with the above-mentioned control loop, the configuration of the closure element is rather complex in terms of manufacture and also the installation of the closure element on the container is difficult and attention is to be paid in this specific step as the detection element is to be correctly attached to the container.

<CIT> is reflected in the preamble portion of claim <NUM>.

It is, therefore, an object of the invention to provide a closure element which is easy to be manufactured and assembled and which provides high reliance.

The subject-matter of claim <NUM> provides a closure element with features for addressing this object. Further preferred embodiments are mentioned in the dependent claims and/or outlined in the following description.

According to the invention, the closure element further comprises at least two first capacitor plates connected with the chip, wherein the two first capacitor plates are attached to one of the top wall of the inner cap member and the top wall of the outer cap member. In addition, the closure element comprises at least a second capacitor plate attached to the other of the top wall of the inner cap member and the top wall of the outer cap member, in such a way that a relative movement of the outer cap member and the inner cap member switches the closure element between a first configuration in which each of the first capacitor plates and the second capacitor plate define a capacitor having a first capacitance and a second configuration in which the first capacitor plates and the second capacitor plate define a capacitor having a second capacitance different from the first one.

In detail, each of the first capacitor plates defines a capacitor with the second capacitor plate. Thus, two capacitors in series are defined with a total electrical capacitance depending on the configuration of the first capacitor plates and the second capacitor plate. The configuration includes distance and overlap between each first capacitor plate and the second capacitor plate as well as the dielectric medium between them.

Once the closure element is interrogated by means of a reader, an electrical field is defined in the capacitor and the voltage measurable at the ends of the first plates, which are connected with the RFID chip, depends on the configuration of the plates. Therefore, the information readable from the RFID chip is representative of the first or second configuration of the closure element.

In view of the above, it is possible to detect if the closure element is changed in its configuration (i.e., if the closure element has been opened) in an easy way and the design and manufacturing of the closure element are simplified. In addition, also the application of the closure element on a container is simplified as it is not necessary to join any detecting portion on the neck of the container.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, in the first configuration, the first capacitor plates and the second capacitor plate are disposed in a first relative position and, in the second configuration, the first capacitor plates and the second capacitor plate are disposed in a second relative position which is different from the first one.

In other words, by modifying the relative position between the outer cap member and the inner cap member, also the relative position between the first and second capacitor plates can be easily changed, thereby modifying the capacitance detectable. In this way, a change in the closure element configuration can be easily detected.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the outer cap member and the inner cap member are rotatably coupled. This feature allows an easy way to change the relative position between the outer cap member and the inner cap member.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the outer cap member and the inner cap member are movable along a longitudinal direction. This feature provides an alternative way to easily and quickly change the relative position between the outer cap member and the inner cap member.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the first capacitor plates and the second capacitor plate are overlapping and, in the second relative position, the first capacitor plates and the second capacitor plate are not overlapping.

According to this aspect, when the first capacitor plates and the second capacitor plate are overlapping, the electrical capacitance measurable is maximum and, when the first capacitor plates and the second capacitor plate are overlapping, the electrical capacitance measurable is minimum. Therefore, the difference in electrical capacitance measurable is the highest possible and the change in configuration can be easily detected.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the area of the two first capacitor plates, in combination, and the area of the second capacitor plate are substantially the same. This feature allows the capacitor to have a sufficiently high capacitance in order to better detect the change of configuration.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the shape of the two first capacitor plates, in combination, and the shape of the second capacitor plate are substantially the same. Also this feature allows the capacitor to have a sufficiently high capacitance in order to better detect the change of configuration.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, each first capacitor plate comprises at least a first portion shaped as a circular sector. Due to this feature, it is possible to provide the first capacitor plates having a sufficient area in a closed and reduced space between the outer cap member and the inner cap member.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the first portions of the first capacitor plates are next to each other on the same plane.

This allows arranging the first capacitor plates in an efficient disposition in the closed and reduced space between the outer cap member and the inner cap member.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the second capacitor plate comprises at least a portion shaped as a circular sector. Due to this feature, it is possible to provide the second capacitor plate having a sufficient area in a closed and reduced space between the outer cap member and the inner cap member.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, each first capacitor plate comprises a second portion having the shape of a circular sector, each first portion being concentric to the corresponding second portion, wherein each first portion is electrically connected to the respective second portion. This allows to maximize the area of the first capacitor plates in order to increase the electrical capacitance.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the second capacitor plate comprises a plurality of portions, each portion being shaped as a circular sector; the portions being electrically connected to each other. This allows to maximize the area of the second capacitor plate in order to increase the electrical capacitance.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, in the first configuration, the second capacitor plate has a first shape and in the second configuration the second capacitor plate has a second shape which is different from the first one. This means that the electrical capacitance of the capacitor defined between the first and the second plates can be changed by modifying the shape of the second plate when moving the outer cap member with reference to the inner cap member.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the second capacitor plate comprises a plurality of capacitor portions configured to be electrically connected to each other in the first configuration and electrically disconnected in second configuration. In other words, during the switching of configurations, the capacitor portions of the second capacitor plate, which are originally connected to each other, are separated due to the relative movement of the outer cap member and the inner cap member. When the capacitor portions are separated, the overall area of the second capacitor plate changes, thereby modifying the electrical capacitance of the capacitor defined between the first and second capacitor plates.

Preferably, in the closure element according to this aspect of the invention, the second capacitor plate comprises a first ring attached to one of the outer cap member and the inner cap member and a second ring attached to the other of the outer cap member and the inner cap member; wherein the capacitor portions are connected between the first ring and the second ring. This configuration allows the capacitor portions of the second capacitor plate to be disconnected from each other due to the torque generated between the first ring and the capacitor portions, and the second ring and the capacitor portions by simply rotating the outer cap member with reference to the inner cap member.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the portions are connected to the first ring and the second ring by means of breakable bridges. This feature allows a simple and quick separation of the portions of the second capacitor plate.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the portions are trapezoidal-shaped and evenly angularly spaced. According to this feature, the portions can be arranged in such a way to maximize the overall area of the second capacitor plate.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the first ring presents an edge connected to the outer cap member; the edge being shaped such that the first ring is rotatably fastened to the outer cap member; wherein the second ring presents an edge connected to the inner cap member; the edge being shaped such that the second ring is rotatably fastened to the inner cap member. Due to this feature, it is possible to determine a relative rotation between the first and the second ring while rotating the outer cap member with respect to the inner cap member. This relative rotation of the rings causes the shear action which breaks the portions from the rings. In this way, the shape and the overall area of the second capacitor plate changes, thereby modifying the electrical capacitance.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the inner cap member presents a groove arranged between the top wall and the side wall of the inner cap member, the groove facing the outer cap member; the outer cap member comprising a tooth arranged between the top wall and the side wall of the outer cap member; the tooth being slidingly housed in the groove; wherein the groove extends only in part along the circumferential extension of the inner cap member. This allows the outer cap member to rotate around the inner cap member to determine a relative rotation of the portions of the substrate in such a way to obtain the torsion necessary to break the portion of the control loop. In addition, when the tooth reaches the end of the groove, the rotation of the outer cap member determines the rotation of the inner cap member in order to unscrew the closure element.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the transponder is an RFID tag; preferably the transponder being an NFC tag.

This allows providing a largely available, reliable and inexpensive transponder.

Advantageously, the closure element according to another aspect of the invention further comprises blocking means active between the outer cap member and the inner cap member to impede switching from the second configuration to the first configuration.

This allows the closure element to permanently inform the user that the closure element has been previously opened.

Advantageously, in the closure element according to another aspect of the invention, the blocking means comprises a spacer member operatively placed between the outer cap member and the inner cap member; the spacer member being switchable from a first arrangement in which it is fitted in a cavity formed at a joining portion between the top wall and the side wall of the inner cap member to a second arrangement in which the spacer member lies between the top wall of the inner cap member and the top wall of the outer cap member.

These features allow to define simple blocking means which are easy to install and which are very reliable.

The invention may be better understood with reference to the following specification disclosed in preferred embodiments thereof and taken in conjunction with the following accompanying drawings in which:.

The description and the accompanying drawings are to be construed by ways of example and not of limitation.

Embodiments of the invention will be described in further detail in the following. Modifications of certain individual features in this context can be combined with other features, thereby providing additional embodiments.

According to a first embodiment, <FIG> and <FIG> show a closure element <NUM> comprising an outer cap member <NUM> and an inner cap member <NUM> coupled with the outer cap member <NUM>. The inner cap member <NUM> is to be coupled with a mouth of a container (not shown) in a rotatably fixed manner. In this regard, the inner cup portion <NUM> comprises a screw portion <NUM> for coupling with the mouth of the container.

The outer cap member <NUM> comprises a top wall <NUM>, preferably of circular shape, and a side wall <NUM>, preferably of cylindrical shape, extending from an edge of the top wall <NUM>.

The inner cap member <NUM> comprises a top wall <NUM>, preferably of circular shape, and a side wall <NUM>, preferably of cylindrical shape, extending from an edge of the top wall <NUM>.

The screw portion <NUM> is realised on the inside of the side wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>.

The outer cap member <NUM> is rotatably coupled to the inner cap member <NUM> in such a way that the outer cap member <NUM> can rotate with reference to the inner cap member <NUM> for a first part of its movement and then, after the outer cap member <NUM> engages the inner cap member <NUM>, both the outer cap member <NUM> and the inner cap member <NUM> rotate together in a second part of the movement to unscrew the closure element <NUM>.

In this regard, with reference to <FIG>, the inner cap member <NUM> presents at least a groove <NUM> arranged between the top wall <NUM> and the side wall <NUM> thereof. The groove <NUM> extends only in part along the circumferential extension of the inner cap member <NUM>. Preferably, the inner cap member <NUM> presents a plurality of grooves <NUM>, each having the same length. They may also be evenly angularly spaced, i.e. arranged in equal intervals around the circumference of the inner cap member <NUM>.

The grooves <NUM> face the outer cap member <NUM>. The grooves <NUM> face a junction zone between the top wall <NUM> and the side wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM>.

The outer cap member <NUM> comprises at least a tooth <NUM> arranged between the top wall <NUM> and the side wall <NUM> thereof (see <FIG>). Preferably, the outer cap member <NUM> comprises a plurality of teeth <NUM> which are evenly angularly spaced.

Each tooth <NUM> is housed in a corresponding groove <NUM> in such a way that it can slide along the groove <NUM>. When the teeth <NUM> reach the ends of the respective grooves <NUM>, the outer cap member <NUM> engages the inner cap member <NUM> and the outer cap member <NUM> transmits the rotation movement to the inner cap member <NUM> to unscrew the closure element <NUM> and open the container.

According to the invention, the closure element <NUM> further comprises a transponder <NUM> housed between the inner cap member <NUM> and the outer cap member <NUM>. In detail, the transponder <NUM> is arranged between the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM> and the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>.

The transponder <NUM> can be active or passive. Preferably, the transponder is of the passive type. Preferably, the transponder <NUM> is an RFID tag. More preferably, the transponder <NUM> is an NFC ("near field communication") tag. An NFC tag is based on high frequency (HF)-RFID technology but operates only on very short ranges (of the order of a few centimetres).

The transponder <NUM> comprises a chip <NUM> and an antenna <NUM>.

According to the invention, the chip <NUM> and the antenna <NUM> of the transponder <NUM> are attached to one of the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM> and the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM>.

In the present invention, the antenna <NUM> is arranged in such a way to lie in a C-shaped area.

Preferably, the transponder <NUM> and in particular the chip <NUM> and the antenna <NUM> are attached to the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>.

More preferably, the transponder <NUM> and in particular the chip <NUM> and the antenna <NUM> are directly attached to the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>. For example, the chip <NUM> and the antenna <NUM> of the transponder <NUM> are directly printed on the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>.

Alternatively, the transponder <NUM> can be arranged on a support (not shown) distinct from the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM> and attached thereto by means of an adhesive layer.

According to the invention, the closure element <NUM> further comprises two first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM>. The first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are arranged on one of the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM> and the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>. Preferably, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are arranged on the same top wall where the chip <NUM> and the antenna <NUM> of the transponder <NUM> are placed.

According to the invention, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are arranged on the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>. Preferably, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are directly arranged on the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>. For example, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are directly printed on the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>.

Each first capacitor plate <NUM>, <NUM> is directly and individually connected to the chip <NUM> of the transponder <NUM>.

The closure element <NUM> further comprises at least a second capacitor plate <NUM> arranged on the other of the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM> and the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM>.

In this way, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM> define, in combination, a capacitor having a detectable electric capacitance.

In accordance with <FIG>, the second capacitor plate <NUM> is arranged on the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM>. In detail, the second capacitor plate <NUM> is arranged on a surface of the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM> facing a surface of the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM> housing the transponder <NUM>.

It should be noted that, according to an alternative embodiment (not shown), the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> together with the transponder <NUM> may be placed on the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM> are arranged on the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>.

In any case, the relative rotation of the outer cap member <NUM> with respect to the inner cap member <NUM> determines a modification of the relative position between the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM>.

In detail, due to the cited relative rotation, the closure element <NUM> is switched between a first configuration in which the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM> are in a first relative position and a second configuration in which the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM> are in a second relative position.

For example, the first configuration can be representative of a closed configuration of the closing element <NUM>, while the second configuration can be representative of an opened configuration of the closing element <NUM>.

As a consequence, the switching of the closing element <NUM> from the first to the second configuration is representative of the fact that the container has been previously opened.

In detail, when the closure element <NUM> is interrogated by means of a reader, an electrical field is generated between the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM>.

The intensity of the electrical field depends on the capacitance of the capacitor defined by the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM>. As already stated, the capacitance depends on a plurality of factors as, for example, the materials and shapes of the plates, the material of the dielectric between the plates.

According to the present embodiment, the only variable factor determining the capacitance is the relative position between the plates.

The electrical field between the plates <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> determines a certain voltage at the ends of the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> connected to the chip <NUM> of the transponder <NUM>.

Therefore, the voltage is a function of the relative position between the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM>.

The voltage at the ends of the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> modifies the response that the transponder <NUM> is able to send when interrogated by the reader. In other words, the response read by the reader is a function of the relative position between the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM>.

Therefore, the reader is able to identify the closed configuration and the opened configuration.

In addition, the closure element <NUM> of the first embodiment further comprises blocking means <NUM> to impede the closure element <NUM> to be returned to the first configuration, once the switching from the first configuration to the second configuration has been performed.

This allows the switching to be permanent and irreversible.

The blocking means <NUM> comprises blocking ribs <NUM> protruding in the grooves <NUM> arranged between the top wall <NUM> and the side wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the blocking ribs <NUM> are wedge-shaped, i.e. they form an inclined guide surface with respect to the tangent of the circumference of the grooves <NUM>.

When the outer cap member <NUM> rotates with respect to the inner cap member <NUM>, the teeth <NUM> move along the grooves <NUM>, sliding up on the inclined guide surface of the blocking ribs <NUM>, overcoming them and snapping back into the groove <NUM>. Since the blocking ribs <NUM> are wedge-shaped, the return rotation of the outer cap member <NUM> with respect to the inner cap member <NUM> is impeded.

The closure element <NUM> according to the first embodiment further comprises lifting means <NUM> to lift the outer cap member <NUM> with respect to the inner cap member <NUM> when the outer cap member <NUM> is rotated with respect to the inner cap member <NUM>.

This provides a further relative movement of the outer cap member <NUM> with respect to the inner cap member <NUM>.

The lifting means <NUM> is provided on the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>. In detail, the lifting means <NUM> comprises at least one lifting rib <NUM> protruding from the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>, the lifting rib <NUM> having an end.

The lifting rib <NUM> is configured to be housed in a recess <NUM> arranged on the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM> in the first (closed) configuration.

More in detail, when the closure element <NUM> is switched from the first (closed) configuration to the second (opened) configuration, the lifting rib <NUM> exits the recess <NUM>, contacting the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM>, scraping against the top wall <NUM> and lifting the outer cap member <NUM> with respect to the inner cap member <NUM>.

The respective shapes of the lifting rib <NUM> and that of the recess <NUM> allow the lifting rib <NUM> to exit the recess <NUM>.

The lifting rib <NUM> is substantially wedge-shaped and extends along an arc of circle concentric to the centre of the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>, having a length corresponding to an arc of <NUM>°, for example.

As shown in <FIG>, the lifting means <NUM> comprises a plurality of lifting rib <NUM>. In the disclosed embodiment, the lifting means <NUM> comprises three lifting ribs <NUM>.

The lifting ribs <NUM><NUM> are disposed alongside each other along a radial direction of the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>. Each lifting rib <NUM> is shaped as an arc of circle concentric to each other.

The lifting ribs <NUM> are arranged close to an edge of the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>. The recess <NUM> is arranged in correspondence of the lifting ribs <NUM>. Therefore, the recess <NUM> is arranged close to an edge of the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM>.

The recess <NUM> comprises a ramp which allows the lifting ribs <NUM> to slide out of the recess <NUM>.

The closure element <NUM> preferably also comprises a cap liner <NUM> which is coupled to the inner cap member <NUM> to provide a seal between the closure element <NUM> and the container mouth.

In detail, the cap liner <NUM> is coupled to the inner cap member <NUM> by means of a coupling protrusion <NUM> protruding from a surface of the top wall <NUM> opposite to a surface connected with the substrate <NUM>.

According to an embodiment which is not disclosed, the outer cap member <NUM> and the inner cap member <NUM> are movable with respect to each other in a longitudinal direction. With more detail, the outer cap member <NUM> and the inner cap member <NUM> are movable with respect to each other exclusively in a longitudinal direction.

In the context of the present description, the longitudinal direction is defined as a direction parallel to a central axis of symmetry of the closure element <NUM>. For example, in the context of a closure element for a bottle, this axis coincides with the longitudinal axis of the bottle neck.

A second embodiment of the present invention is shown in <FIG>, with like numerals referring to like features of the first embodiment. As in the first embodiment, the inner cap member <NUM> can be coupled to, in particular screwed onto the mouth of container <NUM>, such as a bottle (see. <FIG> and <FIG>). In the second embodiment, the outer cap member <NUM> and the inner cap member <NUM> are movable with respect to each other both in a rotational direction and in the longitudinal direction. In detail, the outer cap member <NUM> and the inner cap member <NUM> are movable with respect to each other in the longitudinal direction while rotating the outer cap member <NUM> with respect to the inner cap member <NUM>, i.e., during switching from the closed configuration to the opened configuration. In this way, the distance in the longitudinal direction between the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM> is modified when opening the closure element <NUM>.

In detail, the distance between the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM> and the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM> increases when switching from the first (closed) configuration to the second (opened) configuration. In other words, the outer cap member <NUM> lifts with respect to the inner cap member <NUM> when switching from the first (closed) configuration to the second (opened) configuration.

In addition, dogs <NUM> are placed on the inner cap member <NUM>. In particular the dogs <NUM> are placed on the side wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>. These dogs <NUM> slide along corresponding thread grooves (not shown) on the inner side of side wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM>. These thread grooves are inclined in the sense that they follow a thread line in a way such that, when the outer cap member <NUM> is rotated with respect to the inner cap member <NUM> for opening the closure member, the outer cap member <NUM> is raised with respect to the inner cap member <NUM>.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, the transponder and the first capacitor plates are arranged on a substrate <NUM> placed between the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM> and the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM>.

In the present case, the substrate <NUM> is distinct from the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>. The substrate <NUM> is attached to the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM> by means of an adhesive layer.

The closure element <NUM> according to the present embodiment comprises blocking means <NUM> to impede the closure element <NUM> to be brought back from the second (opened) configuration to the first (closed) configuration.

The blocking means <NUM> comprises a spacer member <NUM>, in this embodiment preferably shaped as an arc of circumference and placed between the inner cap member <NUM> and the outer cap member <NUM>.

The spacer member <NUM> is an elastic member which can be pretensioned. Preferably, the spacer member is shaped like a snap ring.

The spacer member <NUM> is constrained in a first arrangement when the closure element <NUM> is in the first configuration (see <FIG>).

In particular, in the first arrangement, the spacer member <NUM> is fitted in a cavity <NUM> formed at a portion of the inner cap member <NUM> corresponding to a joining portion between the top wall <NUM> and the side wall <NUM>.

When the closure element <NUM> is switched from the first (closed) configuration to the second (opened) configuration, the spacer member <NUM> is switched from the first arrangement to a second arrangement (see <FIG>). In the second arrangement, the spacer member <NUM> lies on the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM> in such a way that it is placed between the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM> and the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM>.

In this regard, lifting hooks <NUM> internally protrude from the inner side of side wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM> to contact the spacer member <NUM>. When the outer cap member <NUM> is rotated with respect to the inner cap member <NUM> for opening the closure member, the lifting hooks <NUM> can move within circumferential grooves <NUM> on the inner cap member <NUM>. As mentioned above, during this rotation, the outer cap member <NUM> is raised with respect to the inner cap member <NUM> by virtue of the dogs <NUM> that slide in the threaded recesses on the inner side of side wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM>. This means that also the lifting hooks rise with respect to the inner cap member <NUM>, and thus push the spacer member <NUM> in cavity <NUM> upward.

This brings the spacer member <NUM> to abut from below against the inclined surfaces <NUM> of cavity <NUM> (<FIG>), which spread the spacer member <NUM> so that it can pass over the peripheral edges of the top wall <NUM> of the lower cap member <NUM> and come to lie on the top surface of top wall <NUM> (<FIG>). Even when the outer cap member <NUM> is now rotated back, since there is no hook or corresponding element that could push down and widen the spacer member <NUM>, and since the upper surface of the top wall <NUM> where the spacer member <NUM> lies is flat and not inclined, it is not possible to bring the spacer member <NUM> back into the cavity <NUM>, so that the spacer member permanently distances the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM> from the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>. In other words, when the spacer member <NUM> is in the second arrangement, i.e., when the spacer member <NUM> is placed between the top walls <NUM> and <NUM>, it functions as a spacer which impedes the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM> to return back in the original position of the first configuration. In this way, the electrical capacitance of the closure element <NUM> cannot return back to the original value of the first (closed) configuration. Therefore, if the closure element <NUM> is opened (switched from the first to the second configuration), the capacitance is permanently changed, and by reading out the transponder of the closure element <NUM> it is possible to ascertain whether such switching of configuration - and thus an attempt to open the closure - has occurred.

A third embodiment is disclosed with reference to <FIG>. As in the first and second embodiments, in first configuration (i.e., the closed configuration), the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM> are disposed in a first relative position and, in the second configuration (i.e., the opened configuration), the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM> are disposed in a second relative position which is different from the first one.

The outer cap member and the inner cap member (not represented in <FIG>) are rotatably coupled. Therefore, the switching from the closed configuration to the opened configuration is realized by rotating the outer cap member with respect to the inner cap member.

In this embodiment, the chip and the antenna of the transponder (not shown) are placed on a first support 70a (<FIG>). The first support 70a is fixed to the top wall of the inner cap member, for example by means of an adhesive layer. The first support 70a is a flat element, preferably but not exclusively having a round or circular shape.

The antenna is arranged in such a way as to lie in an O-shaped area; in the example shown in <FIG>, the antenna is substantially shaped like a circular ring. In addition, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are placed on the first support 70a.

In accordance with this embodiment, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are placed inside the ring-shaped antenna. The second capacitor plate <NUM> is placed on a second support 70b (<FIG>). The second support 70b is fixed to the top wall of the outer cap member, for example by means of an adhesive layer. The second support 70b is a flat element, preferably but not exclusively having a round or circular shape.

Each of the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> comprises at least a first portion 50a, 51a.

Each first portion 50a, 51a is shaped as a circular sector. Preferably, each of the sector-shaped first portion 50a, 51a of the capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> is centred at the geometrical centre of the top wall of the inner cap member, i.e. the centre of the circle from which the sector-shaped portions arise coincides with the geometrical centre of the top wall.

For example, the circular sector defined by each first portion 50a, 51a subtends an angle of <NUM>° to <NUM>°. The angle is preferably substantially <NUM>°.

The first portions 50a, 51a of the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are next to each other on the same plane. In this way, for example, they both lie in a circular-sector-shaped area defining an angle of <NUM>° to <NUM>°. Preferably, the angle defined by both the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM>, in combination, is substantially <NUM>°.

In accordance with the third embodiment, each first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> further comprises a second portion 51b, 51b. Each first portion 50a, 51a is electrically connected to a corresponding second portion 50b, 51b.

Each second portion 50b, 51b is shaped as a circular sector. Each second portion 50b, 51b is arranged concentrically with the first portions 50a, 51a.

For example, each second portion 50b, 51b subtends an angle of <NUM>° to <NUM>°. The angle is preferably substantially <NUM>°.

Each second portion 50b, 51b is arranged at the same angle with respect to the corresponding first portion 50a, 51a. Therefore, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are disposed in a symmetric configuration.

However, each second portion 50b, 51b can be arranged at any angle with respect to the corresponding first portion 50a, 51a.

The first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> can be made of any suitable, conductive material. For example, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are made of copper.

With particular reference to <FIG>, the second capacitor plate <NUM> comprises at least a portion shaped as circular-sector.

Preferably, the second capacitor plate <NUM> comprises a plurality of portions. According to what shown, the second capacitor plate <NUM> comprises three portions.

Each portion is circular-sector-shaped. Each portion of the second capacitor plate <NUM> subtends an angle of <NUM>° to <NUM>°. The angle is preferably substantially <NUM>°.

The portions of the second capacitor plate <NUM> are electrically connected to each other.

In view of the above, the area of the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM>, in combination, and the area of second capacitor plate <NUM> are substantially the same.

In addition, the shape of the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM>, in combination, and the shape of second capacitor plate <NUM> are substantially the same. Preferably, the shape of the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM>, in combination, matches the shape of the second capacitor plate <NUM>.

Consequently, in the first relative position, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM> are overlapping (<FIG>) and, in the second relative position, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM> are not overlapping (<FIG>).

The second capacitor plate <NUM> can be made of any suitable, conductive material. For example, the second capacitor plate <NUM> is made of conductive plastic.

<FIG> show a fourth embodiment. In this embodiment, the chip and the antenna of the transponder (not shown) are place on a first support 70a. The first support 70a is fixed to the top wall of the inner cap member (not shown), for example by means of an adhesive layer. The antenna is arranged in such a way to lie in an O-shaped area.

In addition, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are placed on the first support 70a (<FIG>).

In accordance with this embodiment, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are placed in an outer position with respect to the antenna.

The first support 70a is a flat element, preferably but not exclusively, round-shaped.

The second capacitor plate <NUM> is placed on a second support 70b (<FIG>). The second support 70b is fixed to the top wall of the outer cap member (not shown), for example by means of an adhesive layer. The second support 70b is a flat element, preferably but not exclusively, round-shaped.

Each of the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are shaped as an arcuate strip. The first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are placed at a peripheral region of the first support 70a aligned one next to the other to define an arc of circumference.

In addition, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are preferably arranged in a concentric position with reference to a centre of the first support 70a.

Each of the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> defines an angle of <NUM>° to <NUM>°. For example, the angle defined by each of the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> is <NUM>°.

The second capacitor plate <NUM> is shaped as an arcuate strip. The second capacitor plate <NUM> is placed at a peripheral region of the second support 70b.

In addition, the second capacitor plate <NUM> is preferably arranged in a concentric position with reference to a centre of the second support 70b.

The second capacitor plate <NUM> defines an angle of <NUM>° to <NUM>°. For example, the angle defined by the second capacitor plate <NUM> is <NUM>°.

At least in the first (closed) configuration (see <FIG>), the second capacitor plate <NUM> is overlapping both the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> at a first distance.

According to the fourth embodiment, in the second (opened) configuration (<FIG>), the second capacitor plate <NUM> is still overlapping both the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM>, but at a second distance greater than the first distance.

In other words, the relative movement between the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM> is a linear movement along the longitudinal direction.

<FIG> represent a fifth embodiment. The closure element <NUM> of this embodiment is structurally similar to that of the fourth embodiment.

However, in the fifth embodiment the relative movement between the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM> is a rotational movement.

In other words, in the first (closed) configuration (see <FIG>), the second capacitor plate <NUM> is overlapping both the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM>. In the second (opened) configuration (see <FIG>), the second capacitor plate <NUM> is placed in a different rotational position, not overlapping the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM>.

<FIG> disclose a sixth embodiment. In this embodiment, the chip and the antenna of the transponder (not shown) are place on a first support 70a. The first support 70a is fixed to the top wall of the inner cap member (not shown), for example by means of an adhesive layer. The antenna is arranged in such a way to lie in an O-shaped area.

In addition, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are placed on the first support 70a.

In accordance with this embodiment, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are placed in an inner position with respect to the antenna.

The second capacitor plate <NUM> is placed on a second support 70b. The second support 70b is fixed to the top wall of the outer cap member (not shown), for example by means of an adhesive layer. The second support 70b is a flat element, preferably but not exclusively, round-shaped.

Each of the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are shaped as a circular sector. Each of the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> is arranged so that their centre coincide with a centre of the first support 70a.

Each of the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> defines an angle of <NUM>° to <NUM>°. For example, the angle defined by each of the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> is <NUM>°. The first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are places one next to the other in such a way to lie on a semicircle area.

The second capacitor plate <NUM> is shaped as a circular second. The second capacitor plate <NUM> is arranged so that its centre coincides with a centre of the second support 70b.

The second capacitor plate <NUM> defines an angle of <NUM>° to <NUM>°. For example, the angle defined by the second capacitor plate <NUM> is <NUM>°. Therefore, the second capacitor plate <NUM> lies on a semicircle area.

According to the sixth embodiment, in the second (opened) configuration (see <FIG>), the second capacitor plate <NUM> is still overlapping both the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM>, but at a second distance greater than the first distance.

<FIG> show a seventh embodiment. The closure element <NUM> of this embodiment is structurally similar to that of the sixth embodiment.

However, in the seventh embodiment the relative movement between the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM> is a rotational movement.

In other words, in the first (closed) configuration (see <FIG>), the second capacitor plate <NUM> is overlapping both the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM>. In the second (opened) configuration (see <FIG>), the second capacitor plate <NUM> is placed in a different angular position, not overlapping the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM>.

In <FIG> and <FIG>, an eighth embodiment is disclosed.

In line with the preceding embodiments, the closure element <NUM> comprises the two first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> connected to the chip <NUM> of the transponder <NUM>.

The chip <NUM> and the antenna <NUM> of the transponder <NUM> and the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are placed on a substrate <NUM> which is attached to the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM> by means of an adhesive layer.

In detail, the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are arranged on a first surface of the substrate <NUM> facing the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM> (see <FIG>).

The chip <NUM> and the antenna <NUM> of the transponder <NUM> are arranged on a second surface of the substrate <NUM> facing the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM> (see <FIG>).

The first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> are shaped as curved strips arranged on a peripheral portion of the first surface of the support <NUM>.

In addition, the second capacitor plate <NUM> comprises a plurality of sections <NUM> arranged along a circumferential direction. The sections <NUM> are configured to be electrically connected to each other in the first configuration (i.e., closed configuration) and electrically disconnected in second configuration (opened configuration).

In detail, the second capacitor plate <NUM> comprises a first ring <NUM> and a second ring <NUM>. The first ring <NUM> has a diameter greater than the diameter of the second ring <NUM>.

The sections <NUM> are connected between the first ring <NUM> and the second ring <NUM> on the same plane.

In particular, the sections <NUM> are connected to the first ring <NUM> and second ring <NUM> by means of breakable bridges <NUM>.

The first ring <NUM> and the second ring <NUM> are connected to the outer cap member <NUM>.

All the sections <NUM> have the same shape and the same dimension. In detail, the sections <NUM> are trapezoidal-shaped and angularly evenly spaced.

The first ring <NUM> presents an external edge 54a opposed to an edge connecting the sections <NUM>.

The external edge 54a is shaped such that the first ring <NUM> is fastened to the outer cap member <NUM> in such a way that they rotate together.

In this regard, the external edge 54a is indented. The indented, external edge 54a of the first ring <NUM> is housed in a corresponding, counter-shaped indentation <NUM> (see <FIG>) arranged internally in the outer cap member <NUM>. Therefore, the first ring <NUM> is fastened to the outer cap member <NUM>.

An internal edge 55a of the inner ring <NUM> is opposite to an edge of the inner ring <NUM> connecting the sections <NUM>.

The internal edge 55a is shaped such that the second ring <NUM> is fastened to the outer cap member <NUM> in such a way that they rotate together.

In this regard, the internal edge 55a of the inner ring <NUM> presents a polygonal shape. The internal edge 55a is fitted onto a counter-shaped coupling protuberance <NUM> projecting from the top wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM>.

The sections <NUM> of the second capacitor plate <NUM> are fixed to the substrate <NUM> by means of an adhesive layer.

According to this configuration, when the outer cap member <NUM> is rotated with respect to the inner cap member <NUM>, a relative rotation between the first and second rings <NUM>, <NUM> and the support <NUM> is determined. In other words, as the support <NUM> is fixed to the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>, a relative rotation is determined between the rings <NUM>, <NUM> and the sectors <NUM>.

This relative rotation determines a breakage of the breakable bridges <NUM>. In this way, at least part of the sections <NUM> of the second capacitor plate <NUM> are electrically disconnected from each other. Preferably, all the sections <NUM> of the second capacitor plate <NUM> are electrically disconnected from each other.

Therefore, the shape of the second capacitor plate <NUM> changes from a first shape to a second shape, which is different from the first one, when switching from the first configuration to the second configuration. Accordingly, the electrical capacitance of the capacitor defined by the first capacitor plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the second capacitor plate <NUM> is modified to detect a change in the configuration of the closure element <NUM>.

The closure element <NUM> of the eighth embodiment further comprises the blocking means in line with the other embodiments described above.

In addition, the closure element <NUM> according to the eighth embodiment comprises lifting means operatively place between the outer cap member <NUM> and the inner cap member <NUM> to lift the outer cap member <NUM> with reference to the inner cap member <NUM> when the closure element 1β is switched from the first (closed) configuration to the second (opened) configuration.

In this regard, the lifting means comprises at least one dog <NUM> protruding from the side wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>. Preferably, the lifting means comprises a plurality of dogs <NUM>. In the disclosed embodiment, the listing means comprises two dogs <NUM> arranged on opposite positions.

The dogs <NUM> slide along corresponding inclined slit <NUM> on the inner side of side wall <NUM> of the outer cap member <NUM>. These slits <NUM> are inclined in a way such that, when the outer cap member <NUM> is rotated with respect to the inner cap member <NUM> for opening the closure member, the outer cap member <NUM> is raised with respect to the inner cap member <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> show a ninth embodiment of the closure element <NUM> of the present invention.

The closure element <NUM> of the ninth embodiment is similar to that of the eighth embodiment.

However, the second capacitor plate <NUM> is directly connected to both the outer cap member <NUM> and the inner cap member <NUM>.

In detail, the indented, external edge 54a of the first ring <NUM> is housed in the corresponding, counter-shaped indentation <NUM> (see <FIG>) arranged internally in the outer cap member <NUM>. Therefore, the first ring <NUM> is fastened to the outer cap member <NUM>.

The internal edge 55a of the inner ring <NUM> is opposite to an edge of the inner ring <NUM> connecting the sections <NUM>.

In this regard, the internal edge 55a of the inner ring <NUM> presents a polygonal shape. The internal edge 55a is fitted onto a counter-shaped coupling protuberance <NUM> projecting from a central portion of the top wall <NUM> of the inner cap member <NUM>.

The sections <NUM> of the second capacitor plate <NUM> are not directly fixed to the substrate <NUM>.

According to this configuration, when the outer cap member <NUM> is rotated with respect to the inner cap member <NUM>, a relative rotation between the first ring <NUM> and second ring <NUM> is determined.

<FIG> and <FIG> disclose a tenth embodiment of the closure elements <NUM> of the present invention.

The closure element <NUM> of this embodiment is structurally similar to that of the eighth and ninth embodiments. However, in the tenth embodiment, the connection between the second capacitor plate <NUM> with the outer cap member <NUM> and the inner cap member <NUM> is different.

In detail, the inner cap member <NUM> comprises a plurality of fixing teeth <NUM> protruding from the top wall <NUM>. The fixing teeth <NUM> are arranged in such a way that they are at the same distance from each other.

The indented, external edge 54a of the first ring <NUM> of the second capacitor plate <NUM> is fitted with the fixing teeth <NUM> in such a way that the first ring is fixed to the inner cap member <NUM>.

In addition, the inner cap member <NUM> further comprises the coupling protrusion <NUM> protruding from a central portion of the top wall <NUM>.

The internal edge 55a of the second ring <NUM> of the second capacitor plate <NUM> is counter-shaped with the coupling protrusion <NUM> in such a way that the second ring <NUM> is fixed to the inner cap member <NUM>.

Each sector <NUM> of the second capacitor plate <NUM> presents a centrally arranged slot <NUM>.

In addition, the outer cap member <NUM> further comprises a plurality of corresponding fixing protrusions <NUM> protruding from the top wall <NUM>. The fixing protrusions <NUM> fit into the slots <NUM> in such a way that the sectors <NUM> of the second capacitor plate <NUM> are fixed to the outer cap member <NUM>.

According to this configuration, when the outer cap member <NUM> is rotated with respect to the inner cap member <NUM>, a relative rotation between the first and second rings <NUM>, <NUM> and the sectors <NUM> is determined.

Claim 1:
Closure element (<NUM>) for closing a container (<NUM>), comprising:
- an inner cap member (<NUM>) to be coupled with a mouth of the container (<NUM>); wherein the inner cap member (<NUM>) has a top wall (<NUM>) and a side wall (<NUM>) extending from an edge of the top wall (<NUM>);
- an outer cap member (<NUM>) movably coupled to the inner cap member (<NUM>); wherein the outer cap member (<NUM>) has a top wall (<NUM>) and a side wall (<NUM>) extending from an edge of the top wall (<NUM>); wherein the top wall (<NUM>) of the inner cap member (<NUM>) faces the top wall (<NUM>) of the outer cap member (<NUM>) ;
- a transponder (<NUM>) housed between the inner cap member (<NUM>) and the outer cap member (<NUM>); the transponder (<NUM>) comprising a chip (<NUM>) and an antenna (<NUM>);
characterised in that
it further comprises at least two first capacitor plates (<NUM>, <NUM>) each connected with the chip (<NUM>), wherein the two first capacitor plates (<NUM>, <NUM>) are attached to one of the top wall (<NUM>) of the inner cap member (<NUM>) and the top wall (<NUM>) of the outer cap member (<NUM>);
wherein the closure element (<NUM>) further comprises at least a second capacitor plate (<NUM>) attached to the other of the top wall (<NUM>) of the inner cap member (<NUM>) and the top wall (<NUM>) of the outer cap member (<NUM>), in such a way that a relative movement of the outer cap member (<NUM>) and the inner cap member (<NUM>) switches the closure element (<NUM>) between a first configuration in which the first capacitor plates (<NUM>, <NUM>) and the second capacitor plate (<NUM>) define a capacitor having a first capacitance and a second configuration in which the first capacitor plates (<NUM>, <NUM>) and the second capacitor plate (<NUM>) define a capacitor having a second capacitance different from the first one.