PRIORITY

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 16/821,829 filed on March 17, 2020 and U.S. Provisional Application, entitled“Pressure Balancing Nozzle For Blow-Molding Container Preform,” filed on March 18, 2019 and having application serial number 62/820,129, and claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application, entitled“Shrouded Nozzle For Reduced Stress On Container Preform Finish,” filed on March 26, 2019 and having application serial number 62/823,784, and claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application, entitled“Shrouded Nozzle For Reduced Stress On Container Preform Finish,” filed on June 26, 2019 and having application serial number 62/866,714, the entirety of all of said applications being incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

[0002] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to the field of plastic bottles and preforms. More specifically, embodiments of the disclosure relate to a nozzle for blow molding a container preform that includes a stepped interior surface.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Plastic containers have been used as a replacement for glass or metal containers in the packaging of beverages for several decades. The most common plastic used in making beverage containers today is polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Containers made of PET are transparent, thin walled, and have the ability to maintain their shape by withstanding the force exerted on the walls of the container by their contents. PET resins are also reasonably priced and easy to process. PET bottles are generally made by a process that includes the blow-molding of plastic preforms which have been made by injection molding of the PET resin.

[0004] Advantages of plastic packaging include lighter weight and decreased breakage as compared to glass, and lower costs overall when taking both production and transportation into account. Although plastic packaging is lighter in weight than glass, there is still great interest in creating the lightest possible plastic packaging so as to maximize the cost savings in both transportation and manufacturing by making and using containers that contain less plastic. [0005] A plastic container for storing liquid contents typically includes a base that extends up to a grip portion suitable for affixing a label, as well as providing a location for grasping the container. The grip portion generally transitions into a shoulder, which connects to a bell. The bell has a diameter that generally decreases as the bell extends upward from the shoulder to a neck and a finish. The finish is adapted to receive a closure, such as a bottle cap, to seal the contents within the interior of the plastic container.

[0006] In many instances, the closure includes a tamper evidence band that is disposed around the perimeter of the finish. The tamper evidence band generally remains positioned on the finish when an end-user loosens the closure to access the contents within the container. As such, the tamper evidence band and the finish cooperate to indicate to the end-user whether or not the closure has been previously loosened after being installed by the manufacturer.

[0007] Advantages of plastic containers include lighter weight and decreased breakage as compared to glass, and lower costs overall when taking both production and transportation into account. As such, there is a continuous interest in creating the lightest possible plastic container so as to maximize cost savings in both transportation and manufacturing by making and using containers that contain less plastic.

[0008] One difficulty that may be encountered when working with relatively light plastic containers is damaging the preforms during the blow-molding process. In some instances, conventional equipment for blow-molding lightweight preforms into containers can crack, scrape, or otherwise damage the preforms, thereby rendering such preforms useless. A finish portion of the lightweight preforms is particularly susceptible to damage due to stress-failures during the blow-molding process. For example, the relatively thin sidewalls of a lightweight preform are predisposed to bulging, or“barreling,” due to blow-mold pressure applied inside the preform. Further, the sidewalls may fatigue or become cracked when a conventional nozzle for blowmolding the preform is inserted into the finish portion of the preform. In some instances, forcibly engaging the preform during blow-molding also causes a neck portion of the preform to become undesirably compressed. As such, there is a need for equipment suitable for forming the lightest possible plastic containers without damaging the thin-walled preforms during the blow-molding process. Embodiments disclosed herein provide nozzles that can be engaged with lightweight preforms for forming the preforms into plastic containers without damaging the finish portion or the thin walls of the preforms.

SUMMARY

[0009] A nozzle is provided for engaging with lightweight preforms for blow-molding the preforms into plastic containers without damaging the finish portion of the preforms. The nozzle includes a cylindrical portion coupled with other blow-molding equipment and configured to be advanced longitudinally inside the finish portion of a preform. The cylindrical portion may engage an interior seal with a shelf comprising a stepped interior of the finish portion. The cylindrical portion may include a tapered tip configured to tightly engage with a transition surface comprising the stepped interior of the finish portion. An exterior cylinder comprising the nozzle extends over an exterior of the finish portion and engages an exterior seal with a tamper evidence ledge of the finish portion. The exterior cylinder engages the finish portion to eliminate a pressure differential across a thin-walled region of the finish portion during stretching and/or blow-molding the container preform into a container. In some embodiments, the exterior cylinder comprises a shroud configured to extend over an exterior of the finish portion and counteract outwardly directed forces acting on the finish portion during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform to form the container. The exterior cylinder effectively reduces instances of cracking of the finish portion during forming plastic containers.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, a nozzle for forming a container preform into a plastic container comprises: a cylindrical portion coupled with other blow-molding equipment and configured to be advanced longitudinally inside a finish portion of the container preform; an exterior cylinder configured to extend over an exterior of the finish portion and engage a seal with a tamper evidence ledge of the finish portion; and an opening disposed in the cylindrical portion and configured to enable instruments to be inserted into an interior of the container preform for stretching and/or blow-molding the container preform into a container.

[0011] In another exemplary embodiment, the seal is disposed around an inner circumference of the exterior cylinder and configured to tightly engage with a rounded upper portion of the tamper evidence ledge. In another exemplary embodiment, the seal comprises an O-ring that is configured to tightly press against the rounded upper portion. In another exemplary embodiment, the seal comprises any of a washer, a band, or an edge portion of the exterior cylinder comprised of a material suitable for tightly sealing with the tamper evidence ledge without damaging the surfaces of the finish portion. In another exemplary embodiment, the material comprises any of rubber, silicone, PET that is softer than the PET comprising the preform, and any combination thereof.

[0012] In another exemplary embodiment, the cylindrical portion comprises a diameter suitable for extending into the interior of the finish portion while providing an advantageous degree of clearance between the cylindrical portion and the interior of the finish portion. In another exemplary embodiment, the exterior cylinder is configured to engage with an exterior surface of the finish portion without exerting an outwardly directed force on a thin- walled region of the finish portion. In another exemplary embodiment, the exterior cylinder is configured to engage the seal with an exterior surface of the finish portion so as to eliminate a pressure differential across a thin- walled region of the finish portion during forming the container preform into the plastic container. In another exemplary embodiment, the exterior surface comprises a rounded upper portion of the tamper evidence ledge.

[0013] In another exemplary embodiment, the cylindrical portion is configured to engage a seal with a shelf comprising a stepped interior of the finish portion. In another exemplary embodiment, the cylindrical portion comprises a diameter suitable for pressing the seal against the shelf while maintaining clearance between cylindrical portion and the stepped interior. In another exemplary embodiment, the seal is disposed at a forward-most location of the cylindrical portion and configured to tightly engage with the shelf. In another exemplary embodiment, the seal comprises a washer having a squared periphery that is disposed circumferentially around the seal, such that the seal may be tightly engaged with a right-angled profile shape of the shelf during stretching and/or blow-molding the container preform to form the container. In another exemplary embodiment, the seal is configured to contact the shelf without exerting outwardly directed forces on a thin-walled region of the finish portion. In another exemplary embodiment, the seal is configured to exert a contact force on the shelf along a longitudinal axis of the container preform.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, an assembly for forming a plastic container comprises: a finish portion of a container preform configured to rotatably engage with a closure and to seal contents within an interior of a container formed from the container preform; a shelf comprising a stepped interior of the finish portion; a nozzle including a cylindrical portion and a interior seal configured to engage with the shelf; an opening disposed in the cylindrical portion and configured to enable instruments to be inserted into the container preform for stretching and/or blow-molding the container preform into the plastic container; and an exterior cylinder including a seal configured to engage an exterior surface of the finish portion.

[0015] In another exemplary embodiment, the exterior cylinder is configured to engage the seal with an exterior surface of the finish portion so as to eliminate a pressure differential across a thin-walled region of the finish portion during forming the container preform into the plastic container. In another exemplary embodiment, the exterior surface comprises a rounded upper portion of a tamper evidence ledge comprising the finish portion. In another exemplary embodiment, the shelf comprises a mirror-polished surface capable of receiving the interior seal. In another exemplary embodiment, the shelf includes a right-angled profile shape that is circumferentially disposed within the interior of the finish portion. In another exemplary embodiment, the interior seal comprises a washer having a squared periphery that is disposed circumferentially around the interior seal, such that the interior seal may be tightly engaged with the right-angled profile shape during stretching and/or blow-molding the container preform to form the container.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, a nozzle for forming a container preform into a plastic container comprises: a cylindrical portion coupled with other blow-molding equipment and configured to be advanced longitudinally inside a finish portion of the container preform; a shroud configured to extend over an exterior of the finish portion and support one or more threads of the finish portion; and an opening disposed in the cylindrical portion and configured to enable instruments to be inserted into an interior of the container preform for stretching and/or blow molding the container preform into a container.

[0017] In another exemplary embodiment, the cylindrical portion is configured to engage a seal with a shelf comprising a stepped interior of the finish portion. In another exemplary embodiment, the cylindrical portion comprises a diameter suitable for pressing the seal against the shelf while maintaining clearance between cylindrical portion and the stepped interior. In another exemplary embodiment, the seal is disposed at a forward-most location of the cylindrical portion and configured to tightly engage with the shelf.

[0018] In another exemplary embodiment, the nozzle further comprises a tapered tip configured to tightly engage with a transition surface comprising a stepped interior of the finish portion. In another exemplary embodiment, the tapered tip extends to a circular edge that is configured to forcibly contact the transition surface. In another exemplary embodiment, the circular edge comprises a rigid material and is configured to dig into material comprising the transition surface so as to establish a tight seal between the nozzle and an interior of the preform. In another exemplary embodiment, the circular edge is configured to be pressed against the transition surface such that the force of contact is directed along a longitudinal axis of the container preform.

[0019] In another exemplary embodiment, the shroud comprises a cylindrical member having an inner diameter suitable for extending over the one or more threads. In another exemplary embodiment, the shroud is configured to support the finish portion during stretching and/or blow molding the preform to form the container. In another exemplary embodiment, the shroud is configured to counteract any outwardly directed forces acting on the finish portion during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform to form the container.

[0020] In another exemplary embodiment, the nozzle further comprises a flat sealing surface surrounding the cylindrical portion and configured to contact a top-most surface of the finish portion. In another exemplary embodiment, the flat sealing surface is configured to be tightly pressed against the top-most surface with a degree of force capable of maintaining a suitable pressure inside the preform for blow-molding without undesirably compressing a neck portion of the preform.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, an assembly for forming a plastic container comprises: a finish portion of a container preform configured to rotatably engage with a closure and to seal contents within an interior of a container formed from the preform; a shelf comprising a stepped interior of the finish portion; a nozzle including a cylindrical portion configured to extend into the stepped interior; an opening disposed in the cylindrical portion and configured to enable instruments to be inserted into the container preform for stretching and/or blow-molding the container preform into the plastic container; and a shroud configured to support an exterior of the finish portion.

[0022] In another exemplary embodiment, the shroud comprises a cylindrical member having an inner diameter suitable for extending over the finish portion. In another exemplary embodiment, the shroud is configured to support the finish portion during stretching and/or blowmolding the preform to form the container. In another exemplary embodiment, the shroud is configured to counteract any outwardly directed forces acting on the finish portion during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform to form the container.

[0023] In another exemplary embodiment, the assembly further comprises a seal coupled with the cylindrical portion and configured to engage a shelf disposed in the stepped interior. In another exemplary embodiment, the shelf comprises a mirror-polished surface capable of receiving the seal. In another exemplary embodiment, the shelf includes a right-angled profile shape that is circumferentially disposed within the stepped interior. In another exemplary embodiment, the seal comprises a washer having a squared periphery that is disposed circumferentially around the cylindrical portion, such that the seal tightly engages the right-angled profile shape during stretching and/or blow-molding the container preform to form the container.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The drawings refer to embodiments of the present disclosure in which:

[0025] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of an exemplary container suitable for storing pressurized contents;

[0026] Figure 2 a side plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a preform suitable for being blow-molded to form a container in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 3 illustrates a close-up cross-sectional view of a sidewall portion of a finish comprising the preform illustrated in Fig. 2, according to the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a container preform including a stepped interior surface that is engaged with an exemplary embodiment of a nozzle for forming lightweight containers according to the present disclosure; [0029] Figure 5 illustrates a close-up cross-sectional view of a sidewall portion of the preform of Fig. 4 that is engaged with an exemplary embodiment of a nozzle for forming lightweight containers, in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a container preform including a stepped interior surface that is engaged with an exemplary embodiment of a nozzle for forming lightweight containers according to the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 7 illustrates a close-up cross-sectional view of a sidewall portion of the preform of Fig. 6 that is engaged with an exemplary embodiment of a nozzle for forming lightweight containers, in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a container preform including a stepped interior surface that is engaged with an exemplary embodiment of a shrouded nozzle for forming lightweight containers according to the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 9 illustrates a close-up cross-sectional view of a sidewall portion of the preform of Fig. 8 that is engaged with an exemplary embodiment of a shrouded nozzle for forming lightweight containers, in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a container preform including a stepped interior surface that is engaged with an exemplary embodiment of a shrouded nozzle for forming lightweight containers according to the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 11 illustrates a close-up cross-sectional view of a sidewall portion of the preform of Fig. 10 that is engaged with an exemplary embodiment of a shrouded nozzle for forming lightweight containers, in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a container preform including a stepped interior surface that is engaged with an exemplary embodiment of a shrouded nozzle for forming lightweight containers according to the present disclosure; and

[0037] Figure 13 illustrates a close-up cross-sectional view of a sidewall portion of the preform of Fig. 12 that is engaged with an exemplary embodiment of a shrouded nozzle for forming lightweight containers, in accordance with the present disclosure. [0038] While the present disclosure is subject to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. The invention should be understood to not be limited to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, to one of ordinary skill in the art that the invention disclosed herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, specific numeric references such as“first bottle,” may be made. However, the specific numeric reference should not be interpreted as a literal sequential order but rather interpreted that the“first bottle” is different than a“second bottle.” Thus, the specific details set forth are merely exemplary. The specific details may be varied from and still be contemplated to be within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The term“coupled” is defined as meaning connected either directly to the component or indirectly to the component through another component. Further, as used herein, the terms“about,”“approximately,” or“substantially” for any numerical values or ranges indicate a suitable dimensional tolerance that allows the part or collection of components to function for its intended purpose as described herein.

[0040] In general, there is a continuous interest in creating the lightest possible plastic container so as to maximize cost savings in both transportation and manufacturing by making and using containers that contain less plastic. One difficulty often encountered when working with lightweight plastic containers is damaging the preforms during the blow-molding process. For example, the relatively thin sidewalls of a lightweight preform may become bulged due to blow- mold pressure applied inside the preform. In some instances, the sidewalls may fatigue or become cracked when a conventional nozzle for blow-molding the preform is inserted into the finish portion of the preform. Further, in some instances, forcibly engaging the preform during blow molding undesirably compresses a neck portion of the preform. Embodiments disclosed herein provide nozzles that can be engaged with lightweight preforms for stretching and/or blow-molding the preforms into plastic containers without damaging the finish portion of the preforms. [0041] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of an exemplary container 100 typically used for storing liquid contents, such as water, juice, and particularly carbonated contents. The container 100 comprises a base 104 that extends up to a grip portion 108. In some embodiments, the base 104 may be of the petaloid variety, although other configurations of the base may be incorporated into the container 100, without limitation. The grip portion 108 comprises a plurality of grip portion ribs 112 (i.e., sidewall ribs). As illustrated in Fig. 1, the plurality of grip portion ribs 112 generally vary in depth, and swirl or angulate around the grip portion 108. A label portion 116 is connected to the grip portion 108 and comprises one or more label panel ribs (not shown). The label panel portion 116 transitions into a shoulder 124, which connects to a bell 128.

[0042] In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 1, the bell 128 comprises a plurality of design features 132. In other embodiments, however, the bell 128 may include various other design features, or may be smooth and generally unornamented. The bell 128 connects to a neck 136, which connects to a finish 140. As shown in Fig. 1, the bell 128 comprises a diameter that generally decreases as the bell 128 extends upward from the shoulder 124 to the neck 136 and the finish 140. The finish 140 is adapted to receive a closure, such as by way of non-limiting example, a container cap or closure 144, so as to seal contents within the container 100. The finish 140 generally defines an opening that leads to an interior of the container 100 for containing a beverage, or other contents, such as any of a variety of carbonated soft drinks. The finish 140 may be of the Carbonated Soft Drink (CSD) variety or may be configured to receive closures suitable for sealing noncarbonated contents within the interior of the container 100.

[0043] As shown in Fig. 1 , a tamper evidence closure 144 may be threadably engaged with the finish 140 of Fig. 3. The closure 144 generally includes interior threads that are configured to engage with threads disposed on the finish 140, as described herein. During tightening of the closure 144 onto the finish 140, a plug seal of the closure 144 extends into the opening of the container 100 and enters into a pressed relationship with the finish 140 whereby contents may be sealed in the interior of the container 100.

[0044] As further shown in Fig. 1, the closure 144 includes a tamper evidence band 148 to provide an indication of whether or not the closure 144 has been loosened after being installed by a manufacturer. In some embodiments, the tamper evidence band 148 may be attached to the closure 144 by a multiplicity of thin connections. The tamper evidence band 148 may include a cam that is configured to fixedly engage with a tamper evidence ledge disposed on the finished 140 during loosening of the closure 144. Once the closure 144 is installed onto the finish 140 by a manufacturer and later an end-user loosens the closure 144, the cam engages the tamper evidence ledge, breaking the thin connections between tamper evidence band 148 and the closure 144. The tamper evidence band 148 remains positioned on the tamper evidence ledge after the closure 144 is removed from the container 100. As such, the tamper evidence band 148 cooperates with the tamper evidence ledge to indicate to the end-user whether or not the closure 144 has been previously loosened after being installed by the manufacturer.

[0045] Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a preform 160 suitable for being blow- molded to form a plastic bottle, such as the container 100, according to the present disclosure. The preform 160 preferably is made of material approved for contact with food and beverages such as virgin PET or recycled PET and can be of any of a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The preform 160 shown in Fig. 2 is of the type which will form a 12-16 oz. beverage bottle, but as will be understood by those skilled in the art, other preform configurations may be used depending upon the desired configuration, characteristics and use of the final article. The preform 160 may be made by injection molding methods, without limitation.

[0046] The preform 160 includes a finish portion 164 and a body portion 168, formed monolithically (i.e., as a single, or unitary, structure). Advantageously, the monolithic arrangement of the preform 160, when blow-molded into a bottle, provides greater dimensional stability and improved physical properties in comparison to a preform constructed of separate neck and body portions that are bonded together.

[0047] The finish portion 164 begins at an opening 172 to an interior of the preform 160 and extends to and includes a tamper evidence ledge 176. The finish portion 164 is further characterized by the presence of one or more threads 180 configured to provide a means to fasten a closure, such as a cap, to the bottle produced from the preform 160. As such, the threads 180 are configured to rotatably engage with similar threads disposed within the cap to provide a way to seal contents within the bottle. In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 2, each of the threads 180 generally extends along a section of the circumference of the finish portion 164 and approaches the tamper evidence ledge 176. Thus, when the threads of a cap are engaged with the threads 180, and the cap is rotated in a clockwise direction, the cap advances toward the tamper evidence ledge 176.

[0048] With continuing reference to Fig. 2, each of the one or more threads 180 begins at a thread start 184 and extends along an angular section of the finish portion 164. The thread start 184 is configured to guide the thread 180 into a space, or valley, between adjacent threads of the cap so as to threadably engage the cap with the finish portion 164. Further, the threads 180 generally are disposed adjacently to one another, separated by a valley 188, and are spaced uniformly around the circumference of the finish portion 164. In some embodiments, wherein three threads 180 are disposed around the finish portion 164, the thread starts 184 of adjacent threads 180 are spaced at substantially 120-degree intervals around the perimeter of the finish portion 164. As will be appreciated, however, more or less than three threads 180 may be incorporated into the finish portion 164 without deviating beyond the scope of the present disclosure.

[0049] In some embodiments, a plurality of gaps may be disposed in the threads 180 and positioned uniformly around the perimeter of the finish portion 164. Preferably, the gaps of adjacent threads 180 are vertically aligned so as to form channels extending longitudinally along the finish portion 164. The channels advantageously operate to relieve pressure within the container 100 when the container 144 is loosened. As will be appreciated, the channels may provide a direct route for gases escaping the interior of the container 100, rather than the gases being forced to travel around the finish portion 164 between adjacent threads 180.

[0050] The body portion 168 includes a neck portion 192 that extends to a tapered portion 196 of the body portion 168. The tapered portion 196 comprises a smooth transition from a diameter of the neck portion 192 to a relatively smaller diameter of a cylindrical portion 200 of the preform 160. The cylindrical portion 200 is a generally elongate member that culminates in an end cap 204. In some embodiments the body portion 168 may be generally cylindrical, and the end cap 204 may be conical or ffustoconical and may also be hemispherical, and the very terminus of the end cap 204 may be flattened or rounded. [0051] In some embodiments, a wall thickness of the cylindrical portion 200 may be substantially uniform throughout the cylindrical portion 200 and the end cap 204. A wall thickness of the tapered portion 196, however, generally decreases from the wall thickness of the cylindrical portion 200 to a relatively thinner wall thickness of the neck portion 192. As will be appreciated, the wall thickness of the cylindrical portion 200 is relatively greater than the wall thickness of the neck portion 192 so as to provide a wall thickness at the desired dimensions of a finished product after the preform 160 is blow-molded into the shape and size of a bottle. As such, the wall thickness throughout most of the body portion 168 will depend upon the overall size of the preform 160 and the wall thickness and overall size of the resulting container.

[0052] Figure 3 illustrates a close-up cross-sectional view of a sidewall of the finish portion 164 illustrated in Fig. 2. As will be appreciated, the finish 164 comprises a cylindrical body that begins at the opening 172 to the interior of the container 100 and extends to and includes the tamper evidence ledge 176. The finish portion 164 includes a bevel 208 disposed at the beginning of the opening 172. The bevel 208 is configured to enter into sliding contact with a plug seal of the closure 144 so as to prevent contents from leaking out of the container 100 formed from the preform 160. In some embodiments, the bevel 208 operates to guide the plug seal onto a sealing surface 212 disposed on an interior of the finish portion 164. In general, the bevel 208 and the sealing surface 212 comprise portions of the interior of the finish portion 164 that extend circumferentially around the opening 172.

[0053] As will be appreciated, the sealing surface 212 must comprise a sufficiently smooth surface capable of cooperating with the plug seal to retain contents under pressure, such as carbonated contents, within the container 100. To this end, it is contemplated that the sealing surface 212 may be highly polished so as to be substantially free of surface defects and thus conditioned to form a tight seal with the plug seal of the closure 144. Preferably, the sealing surface 212 is to be polished to a degree of smoothness that is commonly associated with a mirror finish. As such, it is contemplated that the sealing surface 212 comprises a mirror polished region along the interior of the finish portion 164. Further, in some embodiments, the bevel 208 may also be conditioned to comprise a mirror polished region at the beginning of the opening 172. Any of various techniques may be used to mirror polish either or both of the sealing surface 212 and the bevel 208, without limitation. [0054] As shown in Fig. 3, the sealing surface 212 extends away from the bevel 208, deeper into the opening 172 to a transition surface 216. The transition surface 216 comprises a region within the interior of the finish portion 164 wherein the interior diameter of the opening 172 generally narrows from the diameter of the sealing surface 212 to a smaller diameter of a handing surface 220. In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3, the transition surface 216 comprises a reverse curve surface that includes a concave portion 224 that extends from the sealing surface 212 and joins with a convex portion 228 that extends to the handing surface 220. As will be recognized, the handling surface 220 includes a diameter of the opening 172 that is configured to receive various forms of equipment used to configure the preform 160 into the container 100.

[0055] It is contemplated that the transition surface 216 is to be capable of cooperating with the plug seal of the closure 144 to form a tight seal between the closure 144 and the container 100. In some embodiments, the concave portion 224 may be configured to forcibly receive an end of the plug seal so as to form a tight seal therebetween. Further, in some embodiments, the convex portion 228 may be configured to forcibly receive the end of the plug seal. As such, the transition surface 216 may include a smooth surface that is polished similarly to the sealing surface 212. It is envisioned that the transition surface 216 may be mirror polished, as described hereinabove with respect to the sealing surface 212.

[0056] Moreover, in some embodiments, the plug seal of the closure 144 may be configured to extend into the opening such that the plug seal cooperates with the handling surface 220 to seal the container 100. In such embodiments, the plug seal may include a sidewall shape that mates with the concave and convex portions 224, 228. As will be appreciated, therefore, the handling surface 220 may be mirror polished similarly to the sealing surface 212 and the transition surface 216. It is contemplated that mirror polished surface may be achieved by way of any of various suitable polishing techniques, such as mechanical machining and buffing, chemical treatments, plasma treatments, and the like, without limitation.

[0057] In some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 3, a secondary transition surface 244 may be disposed between the handling surface 220 and an interior surface 248 of the body portion 168. In general, the secondary transition surface 244 comprises a region within the interior of the finish portion 164 wherein the interior diameter of the opening 172 narrows from the diameter of the handling surface 220 to a smaller diameter of the interior surface 248. In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3, the secondary transition surface 244 comprises a reverse curve surface that includes a concave portion 252 that extends from the handling surface 220 to a convex portion 256 that extends to the interior surface 248.

[0058] In some embodiments, the secondary transition surface 244 may be configured to cooperate with the plug seal of the closure 144 to form a tight seal between the closure 144 and the container 100 suitable for storing pressurized contents, such as carbonated beverages, within the container 100. As such, the concave portion 252 may be configured to tightly receive an end of the plug seal to form a tight seal therebetween. In some embodiments, the convex portion 256 may be configured to forcibly receive and compress the end of the plug seal. To this end, the secondary transition surface 244 preferably includes a smooth surface that is polished similarly to the sealing surface 212. It is envisioned that the secondary transition surface 244 may be mirror polished, as described hereinabove with respect to the sealing surface 212.

[0059] In some embodiments, the plug seal of the closure 144 may be configured to extend into the opening 172 such that the plug seal extends beyond the secondary transition surface 244 and thus cooperates with the portion of the interior surface 248 near the convex portion 256. In some embodiments, the interior surface 248 may have a diameter that tightly compresses the end of the plug seal to seal the pressurized contents within the container 100. It is contemplated that, in some embodiments, the plug seal may include a sidewall profile that mates with the concave and convex portions 252, 256. As such, the interior surface 248 preferably is mirror polished similarly to the mirror polish of the sealing surface 212. As disclosed hereinabove, the mirror polished surface may be achieved by way of any of various suitable polishing techniques, such as mechanical machining and buffing, chemical treatments, plasma treatments, and the like, without limitation.

[0060] In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3, the surfaces 212, 220, 248 generally comprise a stepped interior of the finish portion 164. As such, the stepped interior comprises a graduated narrowing of the opening 172 that extends from the bevel 208, through the finish portion 164, to the tamper evidence ledge 176. It is contemplated that the stepped interior comprises multiple sidewall portions of the finish 164 that may be configured to advantageously minimize the quantity of resin comprising the finish portion 164, as compared to finish portions comprising a substantially uniform diameter.

[0061] In some embodiments, the stepped interior may be configured to compressibly receive a plug seal of the closure 144 that comprises graduated seals configured to tightly engage with the graduated narrowing of the opening 172. For example, the stepped interior can include one or more sealing surfaces that are each configured to tightly engage with one of the graduated seals of the plug seal to contribute to forming a tight seal between the closure 144 and the container 100. As will be appreciated, therefore, the graduated seals of the plug seal generally include diameters that are suitable for engaging with the graduated narrowing of the opening 172 so as to seal pressurized contents, such as carbonated beverages, within the container 100. It is contemplated that the one or more sealing surfaces comprise mirror-polished surfaces that are joined together by transition surfaces. Further, the transition surfaces are contemplated to comprise mirror-polished surfaces that cooperate with the one or more seals of the plug seal so as to contribute to forming the tight seal between the closure 144 and the container 100.

[0062] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 3, the sealing surface 212 is configured to compressibly receive a first seal comprising the plug seal, and the handing surface 220 is configured to compressibly receive a second seal of the plug seal. Further, the interior surface 248 may be configured to compressibly receive a third seal comprising the plug seal. According, the sealing surface 212 includes a first diameter configured to tightly compress the first seal of the plug seal, and the handling surface 220 includes a second diameter configured to tightly compress the second seal. The interior surface 248 includes a third diameter configured to tightly compress the third seal of the plug seal. As will be appreciated, the third diameter is equal to or less than the second diameter, and the second diameter is equal to or less than the first diameter. Further, the transition surface 216 comprises a change in diameter of the opening 172 that transitions from the first diameter of the sealing surface 212 to the second diameter of the handling surface 220. The secondary transition surface 244 comprises a change in diameter of the opening 172 that transitions from second diameter of the handling surface 220 to the third diameter of the interior surface 248. As disclosed hereinabove, the transition surfaces 216, 244 comprise mirror-polished surfaces that may be formed by way of any of various suitable polishing techniques. [0063] With continuing reference to Fig. 3, the tamper evidence ledge 176 comprises a rounded upper portion 232 and a substantially flat lower portion 236. The rounded upper portion 232 facilitates passing the tamper evidence band 148 of the closure 144 over the tamper evidence ledge 176 during assembly of the closure 144 onto the container 100. The flat lower portion 236 is configured to retain the tamper evidence band 148 positioned below the tamper evidence ledge 176 during loosening of the closure 144. For example, when the closure 144 is initially installed onto the container 100 by a manufacturer, the tamper evidence band 148 easily passes over the tamper evidence ledge 176 due to the rounded upper portion 232. When an end-user later loosens the closure 144, the flat lower portion 236 retains the tamper evidence band 148 below the tamper evidence ledge 176, causing the tamper evidence band 148 to break loose from the closure 144. Thus, the flat lower portion 236 of the tamper evidence ledge 176 and the tamper evidence band 148 of the closure 144 cooperate to indicate to the end-user that the closure 144 has not been previously loosened after being installed by the manufacturer. It should be understood, however, that the tamper evidence ledge 176 is not limited to being coupled with tamper evidence bands, as described above, but rather the tamper evidence ledge 176 may be configured to operate with any of various devices for indicating whether or not the container has been previously opened.

[0064] Disposed between the tamper evidence ledge 176 and the threads 180 is a handling valley 240 that extends circumferentially around the finish portion 164. The handling valley 240 comprises a portion of the finish portion 164 that has a wall thickness and a diameter that are substantially similar to the wall thickness and diameter of the neck portion 192, below the tamper evidence ledge 176. As such, the handling valley 240 and the neck portion 192 advantageously enable gripping fingers to engage with and support the container 100 during air-conveying the container 100 along a manufacturing assembly. For example, a first pair of gripping fingers can extend into the handling valley 240 to support the container 100 at a first station of a manufacturing line. Then, upon being conveyed to a second station, a second pair of gripping fingers can extend around the neck portion 192, below the tamper evidence ledge 176, while the first pair of gripping fingers are removed from the handling valley 240. Similarly, upon arriving at a third station, a third pair of gripping fingers can engage with the handling valley 240 while the second pair of gripping fingers are removed from the neck portion 192. Thus, the container 100 can be transported along the manufacturing line by altematingly engaging gripping fingers with the handling valley 240 and the neck portion 192. [0065] As will be appreciated, the handling valley 240 provides a separation between the tamper evidence ledge 176 and the threads 180 suitable for receiving the pair of gripping fingers, as described above. In general, the separation must be large enough to allow the gripping fingers to easily pass between the tamper evidence ledge 176 and the threads 180. As such, any of various separations, greater than the width of the gripping fingers, may be disposed between the tamper evidence ledge 176 and the threads 180, without limitation and without deviating beyond the scope of the present disclosure.

[0066] Turning now to Fig. 4, a nozzle 260 for blow-molding the preform 160 into a container, such as the container 100, is shown inserted into the finish portion 164 and engaged with the stepped interior. The nozzle 260 generally comprises a cylindrical portion 264 that may be coupled with other blow-molding equipment 262 and is configured to be advanced along a longitudinal axis 266 of the preform 160 so as to tightly engage with the finish portion 164. The nozzle 260 includes an opening 268 whereby instruments may be inserted into the preform 160 for stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 into the container 100. In the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 4-5, the cylindrical portion 264 comprises a diameter suitable for extending into interior of the finish portion 164 while maintaining an advantageous degree of clearance between the mirror- polished surfaces 212, 220, 248 and the cylindrical portion 264. As will be appreciated, preventing contact between the cylindrical portion 264 and the surfaces 212, 220, 248 substantially eliminates potential damage occurring to the mirror-polished surfaces within the finish portion 164.

[0067] As shown in Figs. 4-5, the nozzle 260 further includes an exterior cylinder 270 that is configured to extend over the threads 180 of the finish surface 164 and engage with the tamper evidence ledge 176. A seal 272 is disposed around an inner circumference of the exterior cylinder 270 and configured to tightly engage with the rounded upper portion 232 of the tamper evidence ledge 176. In some embodiments, the seal 272 comprises an O-ring that is configured to tightly press against the rounded upper portion 232 without damaging the surface or the threads 180 of the finish portion 164. It is contemplated, however, that the seal 272 is not to be limited to firings, but rather the seal 272 may comprise any device capable of sealing the nozzle 260 to the tamper evidence ledge 176 for the purpose of stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 into the container 100. In some embodiments, for example, the seal 272 may include a washer, a band, or an edge portion of the exterior cylinder 270 comprised of a material suitable for tightly sealing with the tamper evidence ledge 176 without damaging the surfaces of the finish portion 164. The material comprising the seal 272 may be any material that is generally suitable for sealing with the PET comprising the preform 160, such as, by way of non- limiting example, rubber, silicone, relatively softer PET that the PET comprising the preform 160, any combination thereof, and the like.

[0068] As best shown in Fig. 5, the sealing surface 212 of the finish portion 164 is surrounded by a thin-walled region 276. In the case of lightweight preforms, such as the preform 160, the thin-walled region 276 is susceptible to being damaged by contact with conventional blowmolding nozzles. In particular, outwardly-directed forces on the thin-walled region 276, such as due to forcible contact between the surface 212 and a conventional nozzle or internal pressure during blow-molding the preform 160, tends to damage the sealing surface 212 and/or crack the thin- walled region 276. Such outwardly directed forces may be eliminated, however, by engaging the seal 272 with an exterior surface of the finish portion 164, such as the rounded upper portion 232 of the tamper evidence ledge 176, as described herein. As will be appreciated, engaging the seal 272 with the tamper evidence ledge 176 during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 allows the pressure outside the finish portion 164 to equalize with the internal pressure applied to blow the preform 160 into the container 100. In absence of a pressure differential across the thin- walled region 276 of the finish portion 164, outward forces on the finish portion 164 are eliminated. As such, engaging the seal 272 with the tamper evidence ledge 176 allows for tighter sealing between the preform 160 and the nozzle 260 as well as facilitating greater internal pressure within the preform 160 without cracking the thin- walled region 276 of the finish portion 164.

[0069] In the embodiment of the nozzle 260 illustrated in Figs. 4-5, a tapered tip 280 is disposed forward of the cylindrical portion 264. The tapered tip 280 comprises a decrease in the diameter of the cylindrical portion 264 that is configured to accommodate the stepped interior of the preform 160. As shown in Fig. 5, the tapered tip 280 generally provides clearance between the cylindrical portion 264 and the narrowing interior diameter of the surfaces 212, 220, 248 within the finish portion 164. The tapered tip 280 is not limited to comprising a linearly tapering diameter of the cylindrical portion 264, as shown in Fig. 5, but rather other shapes are contemplated. For example, in one embodiment, the tapered tip 280 comprises an inwardly rounded portion of the cylindrical portion 264 that is configured to prevent damage to the mirror-polished surfaces inside the finish portion 164 during insertion of the nozzle 260 into the preform 160. In some embodiments, however, the tapered tip 280 may be omitted from the nozzle 260, without limitation.

[0070] Figures 6-7 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a nozzle 300 for blow-molding the preform 160 into a container, such as the abovementioned container 100. The nozzle 300 is shown inserted into the finish portion 164, parallel to the longitudinal axis 266, and engaged with the stepped interior of the preform 160. The nozzle 300 comprises a cylindrical portion 304 that may be coupled with other blow-molding equipment 262. The cylindrical portion 304 includes a seal 308 that is configured to tightly engage with a shelf 302 disposed in the interior surface of the finish portion 164 of the preform 160. The nozzle 300 includes an opening 312 whereby instruments may be inserted into the preform 160 for stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 into the container 100. The seal 308 is disposed around the circumference of the cylindrical portion 304 and configured to tightly press against the shelf 302 without damaging the surfaces 212, 220 or the sidewall of the finish portion 164. As such, it is contemplated that the preform 160 may be pressed onto the nozzle 300 during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 to form the container 100.

[0071] As best shown in Fig. 5, the shelf 302 includes profile shape 306 that is generally squared, or right-angled. Accordingly, the seal 308 includes a squared periphery 310 that is disposed circumferentially around the seal 308, such that the seal 308 may be tightly engaged with the profile shape 306 of the shelf 302 during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 to form the container 100. It is contemplated, however, that the seal 308 is not to be limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 5, but rather the seal 308 may comprise any of various configurations capable of engaging with various configurations of the shelf 302. For example, in some embodiments, the seal 308 may be an O-ring configured to be received by a concaved profile shape of the shelf 302. As such, the seal 308 may include a washer, a band, or an edge portion of the cylindrical portion 304 comprised of a material suitable for tightly sealing with the shelf 302 without damaging the interior surfaces of the finish portion 164. The material comprising the seal 308 may be any material that is generally suitable for sealing with the PET comprising the preform 160, such as, by way of non-limiting example, rubber, silicone, relatively softer PET that the PET comprising the preform 160, any combination thereof, and the like. [0072] With continuing reference to Fig. 7, the seal 308 is configured to be pressed against the shelf 302 such that the force of contact is directed parallel to the longitudinal axis 266 and along the sidewall of the finish portion 164. As will be appreciated, orienting the contact force parallel to the sidewall of the finish portion 164 allows for tighter sealing between the nozzle 300 and the preform 160. Further, the force is distributed throughout an area of contact between the seal 308 and the shelf 302. As such, the total pressure exerted on the finish portion 164 by the nozzle 300 is lower than the total pressure exerted by conventional nozzles that include O-rings. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reducing the total pressure exerted on the finish portion 164 facilitates utilizing greater internal pressures within the preform 160 without cracking the thin- walled region 276 of the finish portion 164 during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 to form the container 100.

[0073] Similar to the nozzle 260 of Figs. 4-5, the nozzle 300 includes an exterior cylinder 320 that is configured to extend over the threads 180 of the finish surface 164 and engage with the tamper evidence ledge 176. A seal 324 is disposed around an inner circumference of the exterior cylinder 320 and configured to tightly engage with the rounded upper portion 232 of the tamper evidence ledge 176. In some embodiments, the seal 324 comprises an O-ring configured to tightly press against the rounded upper portion 232 without damaging the surface or the threads 180 of the finish portion 164. The seal 324 is not to be limited to O-rings, however, but rather the seal 324 may comprise any device capable of sealing the nozzle 300 to the tamper evidence ledge 176 for the purpose of stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 into the container 100. For example, the seal 324 may comprise any of a washer, a band, or an edge portion of the exterior cylinder 320 comprised of a material suitable for tightly sealing with the tamper evidence ledge 176 without damaging the surfaces of the finish portion 164. The material comprising the seal 324 may be any material that is generally suitable for sealing with the PET comprising the preform 160, such as, by way of non-limiting example, rubber, silicone, relatively softer PET that the PET comprising the preform 160, any combination thereof, and the like.

[0074] As described hereinabove, in the case of lightweight preforms, such as the preform 160, the thin- walled region 276 surrounding the sealing surface 212 is susceptible to being damaged by contact with conventional blow-molding nozzles. Outward forces on the thin-walled region 276, due to forcible contact between the surface 212 and a conventional nozzle or internal pressure during blow-molding the preform 160, tends to damage the sealing surface 212 and/or crack the thin-walled region 276. The nozzle 300 eliminates such outwardly directed forces, however, by engaging the seal 324 with the rounded upper portion 232 of the tamper evidence ledge 176, in addition to engaging the shelf 302 inside the finish portion 164. As will be appreciated, sealing the tamper evidence ledge 176 and the shelf 302 allows pressure to remain equalized across the thin-walled region 276 during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 to form the container 100. In absence of a pressure differential across the thin- walled region 276 of the finish portion 164, outward forces on the finish portion 164 are eliminated. As such, engaging the seal 272 with the tamper evidence ledge 176 allows for tighter sealing between the preform 160 and the nozzle 300 as well as facilitating greater internal pressure within the preform 160 without cracking the thin- walled region 276 of the finish portion 164.

[0075] Turning now to Fig. 8, a nozzle 360 for blow-molding the preform 160 into a container, such as the container 100, is shown inserted into the finish portion 164. The nozzle 360 generally comprises a cylindrical portion 364 that is coupled with other blow-molding equipment 262 and is configured to be advanced along the longitudinal axis 266 of the preform 160 so as to tightly engage a top-most surface 242 of the finish portion 164 with a sealing surface 246 surrounding the nozzle 360. The cylindrical portion 364 includes an opening 368 whereby instruments may be inserted into the preform 160 for stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 into the container 100. The sealing surface 246 comprising the blow-molding equipment 262 is configured to be tightly pressed against the top-most surface 242 with a degree of force capable of maintaining a suitable pressure inside the preform for blow-molding without undesirably compressing the neck portion 192. As best shown in Fig. 9, the sealing surface 246 may comprise a ring-shaped protrusion having a circumference suitable for contacting the entire circumference of the top-most surface 242 of the finish portion 164.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment of Figs. 8-9, the cylindrical portion 364 comprises a diameter suitable for extending into interior of the finish portion 164 while maintaining an advantageous degree of clearance between the mirror-polished surfaces 212, 220, 248 and the cylindrical portion 364. Experimental observation has demonstrated that preventing contact between the cylindrical portion 364 and the surfaces 212, 220, 248 substantially eliminates potential damage occurring to the mirror-polished surfaces within the finish portion 164. [0077] As shown in Fig. 8, the nozzle 360 further includes an exterior shroud 372 that is configured to extend over the threads 180 of the finish surface 164. The shroud 372 generally is a cylindrical member having an inner diameter suitable for being extended over the exterior of the finish portion 164 without damaging the threads 180. The shroud 372 is configured to provided support to the finish portion 164 during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 into the container 100, as described herein.

[0078] As best shown in Fig. 9, the sealing surface 212 of the finish portion 164 is surrounded by a thin-walled region 276. In the case of lightweight preforms, such as the preform 160, the thin- walled region 276 is susceptible to being damaged by contact with conventional blowmolding nozzles. In particular, outwardly-directed forces on the thin- walled region 276, such as due to forcible contact between the surface 212 and a conventional nozzle or internal pressure during blow-molding the preform 160, tends to damage the sealing surface 212 and/or cause stress- failures within the thin-walled region 276. Such outwardly directed forces may be eliminated, however, by extending the shroud 372 over the exterior of the finish portion 164. The shroud 372 is configured to counteract any outwardly directed forces acting on the finish portion 164 due to internal pressure applied to the preform 160 during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 into the container 100. In absence of a force differential across the thin-walled region 276 of the finish portion 164, stress on the finish portion 164 is eliminated. As such, supporting the finish portion 164 by way of the shroud 372 facilitates using a greater internal pressure within the preform 160 during blow-molding without harming the thin-walled region 276 of the finish portion 164.

[0079] In the embodiment of the nozzle 360 illustrated in Figs. 8-9, a tapered tip 380 is disposed forward of the cylindrical portion 364. The tapered tip 380 comprises a decrease in the diameter of the cylindrical portion 364 that is configured to further accommodate the stepped interior of the preform 160. As shown in Fig. 9, the tapered tip 380 generally provides clearance between the cylindrical portion 364 and the narrowing interior diameter of the surfaces 212, 220, 248 within the finish portion 164. The tapered tip 380 is not limited to comprising a linearly tapering diameter of the cylindrical portion 364, as shown in Fig. 9, but rather other shapes are contemplated. For example, in one embodiment, the tapered tip 380 comprises an inwardly rounded portion of the cylindrical portion 364 that is configured to prevent damage to the mirror- polished surfaces inside the finish portion 164 during insertion of the nozzle 360 into the preform 160. In some embodiments, however, the tapered tip 380 may be omitted from the nozzle 360, without limitation.

[0080] Figures 10-1 1 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a nozzle 400 for blow-molding the preform 160 into a container, such as the abovementioned container 100. The nozzle 400 is shown inserted into the finish portion 164, parallel to the longitudinal axis 266, and engaged with the stepped interior of the preform 160. The nozzle 400 comprises a cylindrical portion 404 that may be coupled with other blow-molding equipment 262. The cylindrical portion 404 includes a seal 408 that is configured to tightly engage with a shelf 402 disposed in the interior surface of the finish portion 164 of the preform 160. The nozzle 400 includes an opening 412 whereby instruments may be inserted into the preform 160 for stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 into the container 100. The seal 408 is disposed around the circumference of the cylindrical portion 404 and configured to tightly press against the shelf 402 without damaging the surfaces 212, 220 or the sidewall of the finish portion 164. As such, it is contemplated that the preform 160 may be pressed onto the nozzle 400 during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 to form the container 100.

[0081] As best shown in Fig. 1 1, the shelf 402 includes a profile shape 406 that is generally squared, or right-angled. Accordingly, the seal 408 includes a squared periphery 410 that is disposed circumferentially around the seal 408, such that the seal 408 may be tightly engaged with the profile shape 406 of the shelf 402 during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 to form the container 100. It is contemplated, however, that the seal 408 is not to be limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 1 1 , but rather the seal 408 may comprise any of various configurations capable of engaging with various configurations of the shelf 402. For example, in some embodiments, the seal 408 may be an O-ring configured to be received by a concaved profile shape of the shelf 402. Further, the seal 408 may include a washer, a band, or an edge portion of the cylindrical portion 404 comprised of a material suitable for tightly sealing with the shelf 402 without damaging the interior surfaces of the finish portion 164. The material comprising the seal 408 may be any material that is generally suitable for sealing with the PET comprising the preform 160, such as, by way of non-limiting example, rubber, silicone, relatively softer PET that the PET comprising the preform 160, any combination thereof, and the like. [0082] With continuing reference to Figs. 10-1 1, the seal 408 is configured to be pressed against the shelf 402 such that the force of contact is directed parallel to the longitudinal axis 266 and along the sidewall of the finish portion 164. As will be appreciated, orienting the contact force parallel to the sidewall of the finish portion 164 allows for tighter sealing between the nozzle 400 and the preform 160. Further, the force is distributed throughout an area of contact between the seal 408 and the shelf 402. As such, the total pressure exerted on the finish portion 164 by the nozzle 400 is lower than the total pressure exerted by conventional nozzles that include O-rings. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reducing the total pressure exerted on the finish portion 164 facilitates utilizing greater internal pressures within the preform 160 without cracking the thin- walled region 276 of the finish portion 164 during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 to form the container 100.

[0083] In some embodiments, the nozzle 400 may be configured to engage the top-most surface 242 of the preform 160, as shown in Figs. 10-11. In the illustrated embodiment, a sealing surface 424, comprising the blow-molding equipment 262 and surrounding the nozzle 400, may be configured to be tightly pressed against the top-most surface 242 with a degree of force capable of maintaining a suitable pressure inside the preform 160 for blow-molding without undesirably compressing the neck portion 192. As best shown in Fig. 11 , the sealing surface 424 may comprise a ring-shaped protrusion having a circumference suitable for contacting the entire circumference of the top-most surface 242 of the finish portion 164. It is contemplated, however, that in some embodiments contact between the sealing surface 424 and the top-most surface 242 may be omitted due to the seal 408 being engaged with the shelf 402, as described herein. As will be appreciated, engaging the seal 408 with the shelf 402 obviates any need for sealing the top-most surface 242 of the preform 160.

[0084] Similar to the nozzle 360 of Figs. 8-9, the nozzle 400 includes an exterior shroud 420 that is configured to extend over the threads 180 of the finish surface 164. The shroud 420 generally is a cylindrical member having an inner diameter suitable for extending over the exterior of the finish portion 164 without damaging the threads 180. The shroud 420 is configured to provide support to the finish portion 164 during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 to form the container 100, as described herein. [0085] As described hereinabove, the thin- walled region 276 surrounding the sealing surface 212 of lightweight preforms, such as the preform 160, is susceptible to being damaged by contact with conventional blow-molding nozzles. Outward forces on the thin-walled region 276, due to forcible contact between the sealing surface 212 and a conventional nozzle or internal pressure during blow-molding the preform 160, tends to damage the sealing surface 212 and/or cause stress- failures within the thin-walled region 276. The nozzle 400 eliminates such outwardly directed forces, however, by extending the shroud 420 over the exterior of the finish portion 164, in addition to engaging seal 408 with the shelf 402 inside the finish portion 164. As will be appreciated, pressing the seal 408 against the shelf 402 directs most of the contact force along the sidewall of the finish portion 164, parallel with the longitudinal axis 266. At the same time, the shroud 420 counteracts any outwardly directed force components that may arise during stretching and/or blow molding the preform 160 to form the container 100. As such, supporting the finish portion 164 by way of the shroud 420 and sealing the preform by way of the shelf 402 facilitates using a greater internal pressure within the preform 160 without harming the thin- walled region 276 of the finish portion 164.

[0086] Figures 12-13 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a nozzle 440 for blow-molding the preform 160 of Fig. 3 into a container, such as the container 100. Similar to the nozzles described hereinabove, the nozzle 440 is configured to be inserted into the finish portion 164, parallel to the longitudinal axis 266 of the preform 160 and engaged with the stepped interior of the preform 160. The nozzle 440 comprises a cylindrical portion 444 that may be coupled with other blow-molding equipment 262 and includes a tapered tip 448 to tightly engage with the transition surface 216 of the finish portion 164 of the preform 160. The nozzle 440 includes an opening 452 whereby instruments may be inserted into the preform 160 for stretching and/or blow molding the preform 160 into the container 100. The tapered tip 448 is disposed around the circumference of the cylindrical portion 444 and configured to tightly press against the transition surface 216 without damaging the surfaces 212, 220 or the sidewall of the finish portion 164.

[0087] As best shown in Fig. 13, the tapered tip 448 extends to and terminates at a circular edge 460 that is configured to forcibly contact the transition surface 216 of the finish portion 164. Preferably, the circular edge 460 has a diameter suitable to contact the transition surface 216 while providing clearance between the cylindrical portion 444 and the sealing surface 212. Upon the nozzle 440 being inserted into the finish portion 164, the circular edge 460 digs into the material comprising the transition surface 216 and thereby establishes a tight seal between the nozzle 440 and the interior of the preform 160. As such, it is contemplated that the circular edge 460 may be sharpened or remain blunt, as desired. Further, the cylindrical portion 444 generally, and the circular edge 460 in particular may comprise any rigid material suitable for digging into the material comprising the transition surface 216.

[0088] In general, the circular edge 460 of the tapered tip 448 is configured to be pressed against the transition surface 216 such that the force of contact is directed parallel to the longitudinal axis 266, along the sidewall of the finish portion 164. As described hereinabove, directing the contact force parallel to the sidewall of the finish portion 164 allows for tighter sealing between the nozzle 440 and the preform 160, thereby facilitating greater internal pressures within the preform 160 without cracking the thin- walled region 276 of the finish portion 164 during stretching and/or blow-molding the preform 160 to form the container 100. Further, the nozzle 440 includes an exterior shroud 464 configured to extend over the threads 180 of the finish surface 164. The shroud 464 is a cylindrical member having an inner diameter suitable for extending over the threads 180 and configured to support the finish portion 164 during stretching and/or blowmolding the preform 160 to form the container 100, as described herein.

[0089] As described hereinabove, the thin-walled region 276 surrounding the sealing surface 212 of lightweight preforms, such as the preform 160, is susceptible to being damaged by contact with conventional blow-molding nozzles. Outward forces on the thin-walled region 276, due to forcible contact between the surface 212 and a conventional nozzle or internal pressure during blow-molding the preform 160, tends to damage the sealing surface 212 and/or cause stress- failures within the thin-walled region 276. The nozzle 440 eliminates such outwardly directed forces by supporting the finish portion 164 with the exterior shroud 464 in addition to engaging tapered tip 448 with the transition surface 216 inside the finish portion 164. As will be appreciated, combining exterior support of the finish portion 164 with sealing against the transition surface 216 counteracts any outwardly directed force components that may arise during stretching and/or blow molding the preform 160 to form the container 100. As such, a greater internal pressure within the preform 160 may be used to form the container 100 without harming the thin- walled region [0090] It is to be understood, however, that the nozzle 440 is not limited to engaging the transition surface 216. For example, in some embodiments, the circular edge 460 of the tapered tip 448 may be configured to forcibly contact the secondary transition surface 244 while providing clearance between the cylindrical portion 444 and both the sealing and handling surfaces 212, 220. In such embodiments, the circular edge 460 may be configured to dig into the material comprising the secondary transition surface 244, such that a tight seal is established between the nozzle 440 and the interior of the preform 160 while the force of contact is directed parallel to the longitudinal axis 266, as described herein.

[0091] In some embodiments, the nozzle 440 may be configured to engage the top-most surface 242 of the preform 160, as shown in Figs. 12-13. In the illustrated embodiment, a sealing surface 456, comprising the blow-molding equipment 262 and surrounding the nozzle 440, may be configured to be tightly pressed against the top-most surface 242 with a degree of force capable of maintaining a suitable pressure inside the preform 160 for blow-molding without undesirably compressing the neck portion 192. As best shown in Fig. 13, the sealing surface 456 may comprise a ring-shaped protrusion having a circumference suitable for contacting the entire circumference of the top-most surface 242 of the finish portion 164. It is contemplated, however, that in some embodiments contact between the sealing surface 456 and the top-most surface 242 may be omitted due to the circular edge 460 of the tapered tip 448 being engaged with the transition surface 216 or the secondary transition surface 244, as described herein. As such, engaging the circular edge 460 with either of the transition surfaces 216, 244 obviates any need for sealing the top-most surface 242 of the preform 160.

[0092] While the invention has been described in terms of particular variations and illustrative figures, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the variations or figures described. In addition, where methods and steps described above indicate certain events occurring in certain order, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the ordering of certain steps may be modified and that such modifications are in accordance with the variations of the invention. Additionally, certain of the steps may be performed concurrently in a parallel process when possible, as well as performed sequentially as described above. To the extent there are variations of the invention, which are within the spirit of the disclosure or equivalent to the inventions found in the claims, it is the intent that this patent will cover those variations as well. Therefore, the present disclosure is to be understood as not limited by the specific embodiments described herein, but only by scope of the appended claims.