U.S. patent application number 10/102783 was filed with the patent office on 2002-07-25 for fasteners for reclosable packages with barrier properties.
Invention is credited to Dobreski, David V., Long, Steve P., Thomas, Toby R..
Application Number | 20020097923 10/102783 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23858677 |
Filed Date | 2002-07-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020097923 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dobreski, David V. ; et
al. |
July 25, 2002 |
Fasteners for reclosable packages with barrier properties
Abstract
A reclosable package includes a pair of opposing walls, a
reclosable seal and a barrier partition. The pair of opposing wall
panels are joined along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom
bridges the opposing sides to create a receptacle space having a
mouth end opposite the bottom. The reclosable seal extends along
the mouth end and includes first and second opposing reclosable
elements. The first and second reclosable elements are releasably
engageable to each other. The barrier partition comprises at least
a first layer that is substantially impermeable to at least one of
oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide. The barrier partition extends
substantially across the pair of opposing wall panels in the
receptacle space.
Inventors: |
Dobreski, David V.;
(Fairport, NY) ; Long, Steve P.; (Canandaigua,
NY) ; Thomas, Toby R.; (Pittsford, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
JENKENS & GILCHRIST, P.C.
225 WEST WASHINGTON
SUITE 2600
CHICAGO
IL
60606
US
|
Family ID: |
23858677 |
Appl. No.: |
10/102783 |
Filed: |
March 21, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10102783 |
Mar 21, 2002 |
|
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|
09468165 |
Dec 21, 1999 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
383/5 ; 383/61.3;
383/64 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 81/267 20130101;
B65D 33/2508 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
383/5 ; 383/61.3;
383/64 |
International
Class: |
B65D 033/16 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A reclosable package, comprising: a pair of opposing wall panels
joined along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the
opposing sides to create a receptacle space having a mouth end
opposite the bottom; a reclosable seal extending along the mouth
end and including first and second opposing reclosable elements,
the first and second reclosable elements being releasably
engageable to each other; and a barrier partition comprising at
least a first layer that is substantially impermeable to at least
one of oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide, the barrier partition
extending substantially across the pair of opposing wall panels in
the receptacle space.
2. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the barrier partition
is formed by first and second fin portions extending downward from
the respective first and second reclosable elements and are joined
to each other.
3. The reclosable package of claim 2, wherein the first and second
fin portions are joined to each other along a one-time breakable
preferential area of weakness to inhibit tampering with the package
prior to being opened.
4. The reclosable package of claim 3, wherein the preferential area
of weakness is selected from the group consisting of a score line,
a thinned line and a highly oriented region.
5. The reclosable package of claim 2, wherein the first and second
fin portions are joined to each other along respective lower edges
thereof.
6. The reclosable package of claim 2, wherein the first and second
fin portions are extruded with each other so as to form a single
continuous fin.
7. The reclosable package of claim 2, wherein a combination of the
first and second fin portions has a generally U-shaped or V-shaped
cross-sectional configuration.
8. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the barrier partition
is formed by at least one integral extension of at least one
opposing wall panel.
9. The reclosable package of claim 8, wherein the barrier partition
is formed by integral extensions of the opposing wall panels.
10. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the first layer of
the barrier partition comprises ethylene vinyl alcohol, polyvinyl
alcohol, nylon, polyester, ethylene vinyl dichloride, liquid
crystal polymer, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride,
modified polyolefins with barrier properties, polyacrylonitrile,
acrylonitriles copolymers, polyacetal, cellophane or combinations
thereof.
11. The reclosable package of claim 10, wherein the first layer of
the barrier partition comprises ethylene vinyl alcohol, nylon,
polyvinylidene chloride or the combination thereof.
12. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the barrier
partition includes an oxygen scavenger or an oxygen absorber.
13. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the barrier
partition includes a filler.
14. The reclosable package of claim 13, wherein the filler is talc,
clay, mica or a nanocomposite.
15. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the barrier
partition further includes a second layer, the second layer is a
tie layer.
16. The reclosable package of claim 15, wherein the barrier
partition further includes a third layer, the third layer is a tie
layer and the first layer is located between the second and the
third layers.
17. The reclosable package of claim 15, wherein the barrier
partition further includes a third layer, the third layer comprises
a polyolefin, the second layer is located between the first and the
third layers.
18. The reclosable package of claim 15, wherein the barrier
partition further includes a third layer and a fourth layer, the
third layer is a tie layer, the fourth layer comprises a polyolefin
and is located adjacent to the third layer, the third layer is
located between the fourth and first layers, and the first layer is
located between the second and third layers.
19. The reclosable package of claim 18, wherein the barrier
partition further includes a fifth layer, the fifth layer comprises
a polyolefin and is located adjacent to the second layer, the
second layer is located between the fifth and first layers.
20. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the first layer is
nylon, ethylene vinyl alcohol, polyvinylidene chloride or
combinations thereof.
21. The reclosable package of claim 17, wherein the first layer is
nylon or ethylene vinyl alcohol, polyvinylidene chloride or
combinations thereof.
22. The reclosable package of claim 1, wherein the first reclosable
element includes a first locking profile and the second reclosable
element includes a second locking profile, and further including a
slider mechanism slidably mounted to the first and second locking
profiles for movement between a closed position and an open
position, the first and second profiles being engaged to each other
while the slider mechanism is in the closed position, the first and
second profiles being disengaged from each other in response to
movement of the slider mechanism to the open position.
23. A reclosable package, comprising: a pair of opposing wall
panels joined along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging
the opposing sides to create a receptacle space having a mouth end
opposite the bottom; a reclosable seal extending along the mouth
end and including first and second opposing tracks, the first and
second opposing tracks including respective first and second
profiles, the first and second opposing tracks being releasably
engageable to each other, the first and second tracks being
connected to one of the respective opposing wall panels, the first
and second profiles including at least a first layer that is
substantially impermeable to at least one of oxygen, nitrogen and
carbon dioxide; and barrier means being proximate to upper edges of
the respective first and second profiles, the barrier means being
substantially impermeable to at least one of oxygen, nitrogen and
carbon dioxide.
24. The reclosable package of claim 23, wherein the barrier means
includes first and second upstanding fins extending upward from the
respective first and second profiles, the first and second
upstanding fins are detachably connected to the first and second
profiles and are attached to each other.
25. The reclosable package of claim 24, wherein the first and
second upstanding fins extend substantially across the mouth, and
further including a slider mechanism slidably mounted to the first
and second profiles for movement between a closed position and an
open position.
26. The reclosable package of claim 23, wherein the barrier means
is a continuous bead of adhesive applied across the upper edges of
the respective first and second profiles.
27. The reclosable package of claim 23, wherein the barrier means
includes an integral formation of the upper edges of the respective
first and second profiles.
28. The reclosable package of claim 23, wherein the barrier means
includes a continuous thermal seal of the upper edges of the
respective first and second profiles.
29. The reclosable package of claim 23 further including a slider
mechanism slidably mounted to the first and second profiles for
movement between a closed position and an open position, the first
and second profiles being engaged to each other while the slider
mechanism is in the closed position, the first and second profiles
being disengaged from each other in response to movement of the
slider mechanism to the open position.
30. The reclosable package of claim 29, wherein the slider
mechanism includes a separatur finger disposed between the first
and second profiles, the separator finger adapted to break a line
of connection formed between the upper edges of the respective
first and second profiles in response to movement of the slider
from the closed position to the open position.
31. The reclosable package of claim 23, wherein the barrier means
comprises ethylene vinyl alcohol, polyvinyl alcohol, nylon,
polyester, ethylene vinyl dichloride, liquid crystal polymer,
polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, modified polyolefins
with barrier properties, polyacrylonitrile, acrylonitriles
copolymers, polyacetal, cellophane or combinations thereof.
32. The reclosable package of claim 31, wherein the barrier means
comprises ethylene vinyl alcohol, nylon, polyvinylidene chloride or
combinations thereof.
33. The reclosable package of claim 23, wherein the barrier means
further includes a second layer, the second layer is a tie
layer.
34. The reclosable package of claim 33, wherein the barrier means
further includes a third layer, the third layer is a tie layer and
the first layer is located between the second and third layers.
35. The reclosable package of claim 23, wherein the barrier means
includes an oxygen scavenger or an oxygen absorber.
36. The reclosable package of claim 23, wherein the barrier means
includes a filler.
37. The reclosable package of claim 36, wherein the filler is talc,
clay, mica or a nanocomposite.
38. A reclosable package, comprising: a pair of opposing wall
panels joined along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging
the opposing sides to create a receptacle space having a mouth end
opposite the bottom; a reclosable seal extending along the mouth
end and including first and second opposing reclosable elements,
the first and second reclosable elements being releasably
engageable to each other; and a barrier partition comprising at
least a first layer that includes a material selected from the
group consisting of vinyl alcohol, polyvinyl alcohol, nylon,
polyester, ethylene vinyl dichloride, liquid crystal polymer,
polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, modified polyolefins
with barrier properties, polyacrylonitrile, acrylonitriles
copolymers, polyacetals, cellophane or combinations thereof.
39. The reclosable package of claim 38, wherein the barrier
partition is formed by first and second fin portions extending
downward from the respective first and second reclosable elements
and are joined to each other.
40. The reclosable package of claim 39, wherein the first and
second fin portions are joined to each other along a one-time
breakable preferential area of weakness to inhibit tampering with
the package prior to being opened.
41. The reclosable package of claim 40, wherein the preferential
area of weakness is selected from the group consisting of a score
line, a thinned line and a highly oriented region.
42. The reclosable package of claim 38, wherein the barrier
partition is formed by at least one integral extension of at least
one opposing wall panel.
43. The reclosable package of claim 38, wherein the first layer of
the barrier partition comprises ethylene vinyl alcohol, nylon,
polyvinylidene chloride or combinations thereof.
44. The reclosable package of claim 38, wherein the barrier
partition further includes a second layer, the second layer is a
tie layer.
45. The reclosable package of claim 44, wherein the barrier
partition further includes a third layer, the third layer is a tie
layer and the first layer is located between the second and the
third layers.
46. The reclosable package of claim 44, wherein the barrier
partition further includes a third layer, the third layer comprises
a polyolefin, the second layer is located between the first and the
third layers.
47. The reclosable package of claim 38, wherein the barrier
partition includes an oxygen scavenger or an oxygen absorber.
48. The reclosable package of claim 38, wherein the barrier
partition includes a filler.
49. The reclosable package of claim 48, wherein the filler is talc,
clay, mica or a nanocomposite.
50. A fastener to be used in a reclosable bag, the fastener
comprising: first and second opposing reclosable elements, the
first and second reclosable elements being releasably engageable to
each other; a first fin portion extending downward from the first
reclosable element, the first fin portion comprising at least a
first layer that is substantially impermeable to at least one of
oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide; and a second fin portion
extending downward from the second reclosable element, the second
fin portion comprising at least a first layer that is substantially
impermeable to at least one of oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide,
the second fin portion and the first fin portion being joined to
each other.
51. The fastener of claim 50, wherein the first and second fin
portions are joined to each other along a one-time breakable
preferential area of weakness to inhibit tampering with the package
prior to being opened.
52. The fastener of claim 51, wherein the preferential area of
weakness is selected from the group consisting of a score line, a
thinned line and a highly oriented region.
53. The fastener of claim 50, wherein the first and second fin
portions are joined to each other along respective lower edges
thereof.
54. The fastener of claim 50, wherein the first and second fin
portions are extruded with each other so as to form a single
continuous fin.
55. The fastener of claim 50, wherein a combination of the first
and second fin portions has a generally U-shaped or V-shaped
cross-sectional configuration.
56. The fastener of claim 50, wherein the first layers of the first
and second fin portions comprise material independently selected
from the group consisting of ethylene vinyl alcohol, polyvinyl
alcohol, nylon, polyester, ethylene vinyl dichloride, liquid
crystal polymer, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride,
modified polyolefins with barrier properties, polyacrylonitrile,
acrylonitriles copolymers, polyacetal, cellophane and combinations
thereof.
57. The fastener of claim 56, wherein the first layers of the first
and second fin portions comprise material independently selected
from the group consisting of ethylene vinyl alcohol, nylon,
polyvinylidene chloride and combinations thereof.
58. The fastener of claim 56, wherein each of the first and second
fin portions further includes a second layer, the second layer is a
tie layer.
59. The fastener of claim 58, wherein each of the first and second
fin portions further includes a third layer, the third layer is a
tie layer and the first layer is located between the second and the
third layers.
60. The fastener of claim 58, wherein each of the first and second
fin portions further includes a third layer, the third layer is
made from a polyolefin, the second layer is located between the
first layer and the third layer.
61. The fastener of claim 50, wherein at least one of the fin
portions includes an oxygen scavenger or an oxygen absorber.
62. The fastener of claim 50, wherein at least one of the fin
portions includes a filler.
63. The fastener of claim 62, wherein the filler is talc, clay,
mica or a nanocomposite.
64. The fastener of claim 50, wherein the first and second fin
portions have an oxygen transmission rate less than 100 cm.sup.3
(mil)/100 in.sup.2 (d)(atm) at 23.degree. C. as measured by ASTM
D3985-81.
65. The fastener of claim 64, wherein the first and second fin
portions have an oxygen transmission rate less than 20 cm.sup.3
(mil)/100 in.sup.2 (d)(atm) at 23.degree. C. as measured by ASTM
D3985-81.
66. The fastener of claim 65, wherein the first and second fin
portions have an oxygen transmission rate less than 10 cm.sup.3
(mil)/100 in.sup.2 (d)(atm) at 23.degree. C. as measured by ASTM
D3985-81.
67. A fastener to be used in a reclosable bag, the fastener
comprising: a first opposing track having a first profile, the
first profile comprising at least a first layer that is
substantially impermeable to at least one of oxygen, nitrogen and
carbon dioxide; and a second opposing track having a second
profile, the second profile comprising at least a first layer that
is substantially impermeable to at least one of oxygen, nitrogen
and carbon dioxide, the first and second opposing tracks being
releasably engageable to each other.
68. The fastener of claim 67, wherein the first layer of the first
and second profiles comprise material independently selected from
the group consisting of ethylene vinyl alcohol polyvinyl alcohol,
nylon, polyester, ethylene vinyl dichloride, liquid crystal
polymer, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, modified
polyolefins with barrier properties, polyacrylonitrile,
acrylonitriles copolymers, polyacetal, cellophane and combinations
thereof.
69. The fastener of claim 68, wherein the first layers of the first
and second profiles comprise material independently selected from
the group consisting of ethylene vinyl alcohol, polyvinylidene
chloride, nylon and combinations thereof.
70. The fastener of claim 67, wherein each of the first and second
profiles further includes a second layer, the second layer is a tie
layer.
71. The fastener of claim 70, wherein each of the first and second
profiles further includes a third layer, the third layer is a tie
layer and the first layer is located between the second and the
third layers.
72. The fastener of claim 67, wherein at least one of the first and
second profiles includes an oxygen scavenger or an oxygen
absorber.
73. The fastener of claim 67, wherein at least one of the first and
second profiles includes a filler.
74. The fastener of claim 73, wherein the filler is talc, clay,
mica or a nanocomposite.
75. The fastener of claim 67, wherein the first and second fin
portions have an oxygen transmission rate less than 100 cm.sup.3
(mil)/100 in.sup.2 (d)(atm) at 23.degree. C. as measured by ASTM
D3985-81.
76. The fastener of claim 75, wherein the first and second fin
portions have an oxygen transmission rate less than 20 cm.sup.3
(mil)/100 in.sup.2 (d)(atm) at 23.degree. C. as measured by ASTM
D3985-81.
77. The fastener of claim 76 wherein the first and second fin
portions have an oxygen transmission rate less than 10 cm.sup.3
(mil)/100 in.sup.2 (d)(atm) at 23.degree. C. as measured by ASTM
D3985-81.
78. A process of applying a coating to a reclosable bag, the
process comprising: providing a reclosable bag, the reclosable bag
comprising a pair of opposing wall panels joined along a pair of
opposing sides and a bottom bridging the opposing sides to create a
receptacle space having a mouth end opposite the bottom, a
reclosable seal extending along the mouth end and including first
and second opposing tracks, the first and second tracks including
respective first and second profiles, the first and second opposing
tracks being releasably engageable to each other, the first and
second tracks being connected to the respective opposing wall to
panels; and applying a coating to at least a portion of the first
and second tracks, the coating including at least a first layer
that is substantially impermeable to at least one of oxygen,
nitrogen and carbon dioxide.
79. The process of claim 78, wherein the first and second tracks
further include respective first and second fin portions and the
applying step includes applying the coating to at least a portion
of the first and second profiles and the first and second fin
portions.
Description
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to reclosable
packages with barrier properties. More particularly, the present
invention relates to the use of particular materials as partitions
that are substantially impermeable to at least one of oxygen,
nitrogen and carbon dioxide.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Reclosable packages or bags are very common, especially in
the food industry. Such packages are typically made to be
reclosable via the use of a reclosable element or fastener such as
a resealable adhesive seal or a reclosable zipper. Such zippers may
be opened and closed either by pressure or by the use of an
auxiliary slider mechanism.
[0003] Reclosable packages are a great convenience to consumers,
especially for products such as luncheon meats and cheeses where,
typically, only a portion of the product is used at any given time.
One problem with these reclosable packages, however, is that the
packages are not substantially impermeable to various gases such as
oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide. These gases may enter into the
packages from the external atmosphere causing food spoilage.
[0004] One attempt to address this problem has involved
encapsulating the reclosable feature by extending the wall panels
of the package. One disadvantage of this type of package is that
the extended wall panels may interfere with the operation of
opening and closing the package, resulting in customer
dissatisfaction. Another disadvantage includes higher product costs
involved with using additional resins for extending the wall
panels. This type of package also involves an additional step for
the customer of removing a tear strip or manually cutting the wall
panels to gain access to the package.
[0005] A need therefore exists for packages or bags being
substantially impermeable to gases such as oxygen, nitrogen and
carbon without having the above-noted disadvantages.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a
reclosable package includes a pair of opposing walls, a reclosable
seal and a barrier partition. The pair of opposing wall panels are
joined along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridges the
opposing sides to create a receptacle space having a mouth end
opposite the bottom. The reclosable seal extends along the mouth
end and includes first and second opposing reclosable elements. The
first and second reclosable elements are releasably engageable to
each other. The barrier partition comprises at least a first layer
that is substantially impermeable to at least one of oxygen,
nitrogen and carbon dioxide. The barrier partition extends
substantially across the pair of opposing wall panels in the
receptacle space.
[0007] According to another embodiment, a reclosable package
includes a pair of opposing walls, a reclosable seal and a barrier
partition. The reclosable seal extends along the mouth end and
includes first and second opposing tracks. The first and second
tracks include respective first and second profiles. The first and
second opposing tracks are releasably engageable to each other. The
first and second tracks are connected to the respective opposing
wall panels. The first and second profiles include at least a first
layer that is substantially impermeable to at least one of oxygen,
nitrogen and carbon dioxide. The barrier means are proximate to
upper edges of the respective first and second profiles. The
barrier means are substantially impermeable to at least one of
oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide.
[0008] According to another embodiment, a reclosable package
includes a barrier partition comprising at least a first layer that
includes a material selected from the group consisting of vinyl
alcohol, polyvinyl alcohol, nylon, polyester, ethylene vinyl
dichloride, liquid crystal polymer, polyvinyl chloride,
polyvinylidene chloride, modified polyolefins with barrier
properties. polyacrylonitrile, acrylonitriles copolymers,
polyacetal, cellophane or combinations thereof.
[0009] According to a further embodiment, a fastener of the present
invention includes first and second opposing elements, a first fin
portion and a second fin portion. The first and second opposing
reclosable elements are releasably engageable to each other. The
first fin portion extends downward from the first reclosable
element. The first fin portion comprises at least a first layer
that is substantially impermeable to at least one of oxygen,
nitrogen and carbon dioxide. The second fin portion extends
downward from the second reclosable element. The second fin portion
comprises at least a first layer that is substantially impermeable
to at least one of oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide. The second
fin portion and the first fin portion are joined to each other.
[0010] According to a yet another embodiment, a fastener of the
present invention includes first and second opposing tracks that
are releasably engageable to each other. The first and second
opposing tracks have a first and second profile, respectively. The
first and second profiles comprise at least a first layer that is
substantially impermeable to at least one of oxygen, nitrogen and
carbon dioxide.
[0011] According to one process of the present invention, a coating
is applied to a reclosable bag. The provided reclosable bag
comprises a pair of opposing wall panels joined along a pair of
opposing sides and a bottom bridging the opposing sides to create a
receptacle space having a mouth end opposite the bottom. A
reclosable seal extends along the mouth end and includes first and
second opposing tracks. The first and second tracks include
respective first and second profiles. The first and second opposing
tracks are releasably engageable to each other. The first and
second tracks are connected to the respective opposing wall panels.
The process also includes applying a coating to at least a portion
of the first and second tracks. The coating includes at least a
first layer that is substantially impermeable to at least one of
oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] Other objects and advantages of the invention will become
apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon
reference to the drawings.
[0013] FIG. 1 is a section view of a mouth portion of a reclosable
package or bag having fin portions joined below a fastener
according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0014] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the reclosable package
incorporating the mouth portion depicted in FIG. 1 in which a
reclosable zipper has a slider mechanism being opened and the fin
portions being partially opened;
[0015] FIG. 3 is a section view of a mouth portion of a reclosable
portion having fin portions comprising two layers according to one
embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 4 is a section view of a mouth portion of a reclosable
portion having fin portions comprising three layers according to a
further embodiment of the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a section view of a mouth portion of a reclosable
portion having fin portions comprising four layers according to
another embodiment of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 6 is a section view of a mouth portion of a reclosable
portion having fin portions comprising five layers according to yet
another embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 7 is a section view of a mouth portion of a reclosable
package having a barrier partition formed by integral extensions of
opposing wall panels located below a fastener;
[0020] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a reclosable package
according to one embodiment of the present invention, showing the
package in sealed form having upstanding fins in the process of
being broken;
[0021] FIG. 9 is an enlarged section view taken generally along
line 9-9 of FIG. 8;
[0022] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the reclosable bag, showing
the bag in partially opened form after the upstanding fins have
been completely broken;
[0023] FIG. 11 is an enlarged section view of zipper profiles and
upstanding fins comprising two layers according to one embodiment
of the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 12 is an enlarged section view of zipper profiles and
upstanding fins comprising three layers according to one embodiment
of the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 13 is an enlarged section view employing a continuous
bead of adhesive to connect the zipper profiles,
[0026] FIG. 14 is an enlarged section view similar to that of FIG.
13 but integrally forming the zipper profiles to connect them to
each other;
[0027] FIG. 15 is a section view of the zipper profiles as extruded
with each other end-to-end to achieve the integral connection shown
in FIG. 14.
[0028] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications
and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown
by way of example in the drawing and will herein be described in
detail. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended
to limit the invention 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 invention as defined by the appended claims.
DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0029] Turning now to the drawings, FIG. 1 depicts a mouth portion
of a reclosable package or bag 10 having a barrier partition 12
located below a fastener or zipper 14. The barrier partition 12 of
FIG. 1 is also tamper-evident. FIG. 2 shows the reclosable package
10 opening the mouth portion depicted in FIG. 1.
[0030] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the mouth portion of the
reclosable package 10 includes a pair of opposing wall panels 16
and 18 that make up a package body 20 and define a receptacle space
22. Connected to the wall panel 16 is a first track 24 having a
first profile 26 and a first fin portion 28 extending downward from
the first profile 26. Connected to the other wall panel 18 is a
second track 30 having a second profile 32 and a second fin portion
34 extending downward from the second profile 32. The first and
second profiles 26 and 32 are releasably engageable with each other
to provide a reclosable seal to the package 10.
[0031] The barrier partition 12 comprises at least a first layer
that is substantially impermeable to at least one of oxygen,
nitrogen and carbon dioxide. As shown in FIG. 1, the barrier
partition 12 extends across the pair of opposing wall panels 16 and
18 in the receptacle space 22. The barrier partitions of the
present invention are preferably substantially impermeable to
oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide.
[0032] The first layer of the barrier partition 12 may comprise
ethylene vinyl alcohols (EVOH), polyvinyl alcohols (PVOH), nylons,
polyesters, ethylene vinyl dichlorides (EVDC), liquid crystal
polymers (LCPs), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene chloride
(PVDC), modified polyolefins with barrier properties,
polyacrylonitriles, acrylonitrile copolymers. polyacetals.
cellophanes or combinations thereof. The first layer of the barrier
partition 12 is preferably made of an EVOH, PVDC, nylon or
polyester. Preferred nylons include nylon-6, nylon-66, nylon-MXD6
and amorphous nylons. Preferred polyesters include polyethylene
terephthlate (PET) and polybutylene terephthlate (PBT). It is
preferred that water soluble materials, such as PVOH, do not
comprise the first layer if the barrier partition is made of only
the first layer because those materials may dissolve in a moisture
environment or lose strength and/or barrier characteristics.
[0033] The first layer generally has an oxygen transmission rate
(OTR) less than 100 cm.sup.3 (mil)/100 in.sup.2 (d) (atm) at
23.degree. C. as measured by ASTM D3985-81. The first layer
preferably has an oxygen transmission rate less than 20 cm.sup.3
(mil)/100 in.sup.2 (d) (atm) at 23.degree. C. and, more preferably,
less than 10 cm.sup.3 (mil)/100 in.sup.2 (d) (atm) at 23.degree. C.
as measured by ASTM D3985-81.
[0034] The first layer of the barrier partition 12 may also be
substantially impermeable to water vapor and other gases causing
dehydration, increased humidification and/or oxidation. The first
layer of the barrier partition 12 preferably assists in inhibiting
loss of flavor, absorption of external odors and development of
microflora (bacteria) in the food products of the package 10.
[0035] It is contemplated that oxygen absorbers/scavengers may be
included in the formation of the first layer of the barrier
partition 12. Oxygen absorbers or scavengers are generally chemical
or enzyme based. Chemical oxygen scavengers contemplated in the
present invention include metallic reducing agents such as various
ferrous compounds, powdered iron oxide and metallic platinum. Other
chemical oxygen scavengers include non-metallic formulations such
as those employing ascorbic acids (Vitamin C) and their associated
salts and organo-metallic molecules that have a natural affinity
for oxygen.
[0036] It is contemplated that additional materials may be added in
forming the barrier partition 12. These materials include various
fillers, such as clay, talc, mica and nanocomposites that may be
more cost effective. These fillers may provide a tortuous path for
oxygen, nitrogen or carbon dioxide.
[0037] Similarly, the opposing wall panels 16 and 18 are also made
of at least one layer that is substantially impermeable to at least
one of oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide and, preferably,
substantially impermeable to all of the above. The first layer of
the opposing wall panels 16 and 18 may be made of similar material
as described above in forming the first layer of the barrier
partition 12. The opposing wall panels 16 and 18 may be made from
multiple layers. The first layer of the opposing wall panels 16 and
18 may be located on the inside layer or as an interior layer.
[0038] One example of an opposing wall panel 16 or 18 is a three
layer structure with the first layer comprising polyester and being
located as an outside layer of the wall panels, a second layer
comprising polyolefin that is located on the interior, and a third
layer being a tie layer located between the first and second
layers. The tie layer may be made from, for example, ethylene vinyl
acetate (EVA) or a modified EVA. The first layer of the opposing
wall panels 16 and 18 may be made of nylon. Polyolefins that are
typically used in forming the second layer of the opposing wall
panels 16 and 18 include polyethylenes and polypropylenes.
[0039] It is contemplated that various other layered structures may
form the opposing wall panels 16 and 18. For example, the opposing
wall panels 16 and 18 may have a layer of EVA and a layer of
polyester. Alternatively, the opposing wall panels 16 and 18 may
have an EVA layer and a layer of nylon. The layers of each of the
opposing wall panels may be joined by coextrusion, extrusion
lamination or adhesive lamination. It is also contemplated that
pigments, metallic components, paper, and/or paper/polymeric
compositions may be incorporated into layer(s) forming the opposing
wall panels 16 and 18 of the present invention.
[0040] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, the lower edges of
the first and second fin portions 28 and 34 are joined to each
other along an optional one-time breakable preferential area of
weakness or preferential tear area 38 to form a one-time breakable
tamper evident feature. The optional preferential area of weakness
38 is substantially impermeable to at least one of oxygen, nitrogen
and carbon dioxide and, preferably, substantially impermeable to
all of the above. It is not necessary that the first and second fin
portions 28 and 34 have a one-time breakable preferential area of
weakness 38. For example, the first and second fin portions 28 and
34 may be made in a manner such that the fin portions 28 and 34 are
separated by cutting the fin portions apart. The preferential area
of weakness 38 inhibits tampering with the bag 10 prior to being
opened. The joined first and second fin portions 28 and 34 have a
generally U-shaped or V-shaped cross-sectional configuration.
[0041] To join the first and second fin portions 28 and 34, the
first and second fin portions 28 and 34 may be extruded as a single
continuous fin having the preferential area of weakness 38. In one
embodiment, the preferential area of weakness 38 takes the form of
a score line or a thinned line. A score line may be created by
making a uniform crease at the intersection of the fin portions 28
and 34. Alternatively, a score line may be formed on any portion(s)
of the fin portions 28 and 34. A thinned line is created by
extruding the fin portions 28 and 34 with less plastic material
along the region joining the lower edges of the fin portions 28 and
34. In another embodiment, the preferential area of weakness 38
results from forming the single continuous fin out of a region of
highly oriented plastic that has a tendency to split along the
preferential area of weakness 38.
[0042] Instead of extruding the first and second fin portions 28
and 34 as a single continuous fin, the fin portions 28 and 34 may
be separately extruded and then later weakly attached at their
lower edges or some other location by heat sealing, welding, or the
like. The weak attachment of the first and second fin portions 28
and 34 creates the preferential area of weakness 38.
[0043] The thicknesses of the first and second fin portions 28 and
34 may vary from generally about 2 to about 10 mil. The thicknesses
of the first and second fin portions 28 and 34 are typically from
about 6 to about 8 mil.
[0044] The reclosable package 10 may further include an optional
auxiliary slider mechanism 36 (FIG. 2) slidably mounted to the
zipper 14 for movement between a closed position and an open
position. The first and second profiles 26 and 32 are engaged to
each other while the slider mechanism 36 is in the closed position,
and movement of the slider mechanism 36 from the closed position to
the open position disengages the profiles 26 and 32 from each
other. The package 10 of FIG. 2 also includes end termination
clamps 37. The end clamps 37 perform the dual function of stops for
the ends of the zipper 14 to prevent the slider 36 from going past
the zipper 14 and, in addition, the end clamps 37 hold the first
and second profiles 26 and 32 together to resist stresses applied
to the profiles during normal use of the package 10. The
composition and manner of operation of this zipper, slider
arrangement and end clamps is described in detail in U.S. Pat. No.
5,067,208 to Herrington, Jr. et.al. which is incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety.
[0045] As illustrated in FIG. 2, in order to open the reclosable
package 10 of the present invention, a consumer grips the slider
mechanism 36 and moves it such that the first and second profiles
26 and 32 of the respective first and second tracks 24 and 30 are
detached from each other. Next, the consumer tears open the barrier
partition 12 along the preferential area of weakness 38.
Alternatively, the consumer may open the barrier partition 12 by
cutting the first and second fin portions 28 and 34. The package
can be resealed utilizing the zipper 14 and slider mechanism 36.
Specifically, the consumer grips the slider mechanism 36 and moves
it from the open position to the closed position so as to engage
the complementary first and second profiles 26 and 32.
[0046] As shown in FIGS. 3-6, barrier partitions of the present
invention may be formed of multiple layers. As shown in FIG. 3, a
barrier partition 40 comprises a first fin portion 42 and a second
fin portion 44. Each of the fin portions 42 and 44 comprises a
first layer 46 and a second layer 48. The first layer 46 may
comprise the same materials as described above in making the first
layer of the barrier partition 12. The first layers of the first
and second fin portions may be made of different materials.
[0047] The second layer 48 may be connected to the opposing wall
panels 16 and 18 as shown in FIG. 3. The second layer 48 is a tie
layer and may be made from various materials such as ethylene vinyl
acetate (EVA), anhydride modified polyolefins, anhydride modified
ethylene-acrylates, anhydride modified EVAs, acid modified EVAs,
acid modified ethylene-acrylates, amorphous polyolefin-modified EVA
polymers or combinations thereof. Some examples of anhydride
modified polyolefins include anhydride modified high density
polyethylene (HDPE), anhydride modified low density polyethylene
(LDPE) and anhydride linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE). The
second layers of the fin portions may be made of different
materials.
[0048] Referring to FIG. 4, a barrier partition 50 is similar to
the barrier partition 40 of FIG. 3 except that it further includes
a third layer 51 in both of the first and second fin portions 52
and 54. The third layer 51 of FIG. 4 is a tie layer and may be made
of similar materials as described above with respect to the second
layer 48. The third layer 51 is located on the interior of the
barrier partition 50, such that the first layer 46 is located
between the second layer 48 and the third layer 51.
[0049] Other barrier partitions having three layers are
contemplated. For example, a barrier partition (not shown) may
include a first layer having the same materials as described above
in making the first layer of the barrier partition 12, a tie layer
and a third layer made of polyolefin(s), such as an LDPE, an HDPE,
an LLDPE or a combination thereof. In this embodiment, the first
layer would be preferably located on the interior of the barrier
partition with the tie layer being located between the first and
third layers.
[0050] The barrier partitions of the present invention may include
four layer and five layer fin portions such as shown in barrier
partition 60 (see FIG. 5) and in barrier partition 70 (see FIG. 6).
Referring first to FIG. 5, the barrier partition 60 further
includes a fourth layer 61 in both of the first and second fin
portions 62 and 64. The fourth layer 61 of FIG. 5 may be made of
polyolefin(s), such as an LDPE, an HDPE, an LLDPE or a combination
thereof. As shown in FIG. 5, the fourth layer 61 is located on the
interior of the barrier partition 60 and is adjacent to the third
layer 51.
[0051] Other four layered fin portions are contemplated in the
present invention. For example, a four layer structure (not shown)
may include two first layers substantially impermeable to at least
one of oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide, a tie layer and a
polyolefinic layer. The two first layers may be made with materials
that are independently selected from each other, such as described
above in the first layer of the barrier partition 12. In this
embodiment, the polyolefinic layer may be located as an exterior
layer with the tie layer located adjacent to the polyolefinic
layer. The remaining layers are located adjacent to each other with
one of the layers being located on an interior layer of the barrier
partition.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 6, a barrier partition 70 further includes
a fifth layer 71 in both of its first and second fin portions 72
and 74. The fifth layer 71 of FIG. 6 may be made of the same
materials (polyolefins) as described above with respect to the
fourth layer 61.
[0053] It is also contemplated that additional layers may be added
in forming the first and second fin portions of the present
invention. For example, six or seven or more layered first and
second fin portions are contemplated in the present invention.
[0054] In one preferred three layer fin portion, the first layer 46
is EVOH, the second layer 48 is a tie layer and the third layer 51
is a tie layer. In another preferred three layer fin portion, the
first layer 46 is nylon, the second layer 48 is a tie layer and the
third layer 51 is a tie layer. In one preferred four layer fin
portion, the first layer 46 is EVOH, the second layer 48 is a tie
layer, the third layer 51 is a tie layer and the fourth layer 61 is
LDPE. In another preferred four layer fin portion, the first layer
46 is nylon, the second layer 48 is a tie layer, the third layer 51
is a tie layer and the fourth layer 61 is LDPE.
[0055] In one preferred five layer fin portion, the first layer 46
is EVOH, the second layer 48 is a tie layer, the third layer 51 is
a tie layer, and the fourth and fifth layers 61 and 71,
respectively, are independently selected polyolefins, such as LDPE,
HDPE or LLDPE. In another preferred five layer fin portion, the
first layer 46 is nylon, the second layer 48 is a tie layer, the
third layer 51 is a tie layer, and the fourth and fifth layers 61
and 71, respectively, are independently selected polyolefins, such
as LDPE, HDPE or LLDPE.
[0056] The first and second fin portions, such as shown in FIGS.
3-6, may be formed by coextruding the multiple layers that form
each fin portion. The first and second fin portions may also be
formed by other processes such as coating or laminating.
[0057] In an alternative embodiment depicted in FIG. 7, a mouth
portion 90 includes wall panel portions 92 and 94, first and second
tracks 96 and 98, and first and second profiles 100 and 102. The
first and second tracks 96 and 98 are coextruded with the
respective wall panels 92 and 94. The mouth portion also includes a
barrier partition 104 that is formed by integral extensions of the
wall panel portions 92 and 94. Alternatively, a barrier partition
may be formed by an integral extension of only one of the wall
panel portions 92 and 94 (not shown). The barrier partition 104 of
FIG. 7 is also tamper resistant. The barrier portion 104 may
include an optional one-time breakable preferential area of
weakness 106, such as shown in FIG. 7.
[0058] By being substantially impermeable to at least oxygen,
nitrogen and/or carbon dioxide, the barrier partitions of the
present invention assist in preserving the freshness of the food
contents of the package prior to its initial opening. Since the
fastener is located above the barrier partitions, the operation of
the fastener is not hampered by the presence of a barrier
partition. The barrier partition of the present invention also
provides a consumer with the assurance that the newly purchased
package has not been opened.
[0059] The optional slider mechanism 36 is optimally made from
polypropylenes, copolymers of polyethylene and polypropylene,
polycarbonates or polyesters. Especially preferred components for
making the slider mechanism 36 are polypropylenes, polycarbonates
or polyesters.
[0060] The components of the fastener such as the tracks having
integrally formed interlocking profiles and fin portions may be
attached to the wall panels of the package by processes such as
heat sealing, welding or blocking. The process utilized depends
upon the materials from which the bag and the fastener are made.
Specifically, heat sealing is a process whereby materials are fused
or melted together. Welding is a process where an intermediate
third material is utilized to "glue" similar materials to each
other. Blocking is a process where at least sufficient pressure and
optional temperature increases result in intimate surface contact
adhesion of layers without sealing.
[0061] Alternatively, an adhesive seal may be utilized as a
fastener or reclosable element of the present invention. Such seals
employ a resealable adhesive-type substance that is applied to
either one or both of the films making up the package. The adhesive
may alternatively be applied to an intermediary base strip. It is
contemplated that other fasteners, besides adhesive seals and
zippers, may be used in the present invention.
[0062] Referring to FIGS. 8-10, a reclosable package or bag 110 is
shown according to another embodiment of the present invention. The
reclosable package 110 includes a fastener or zipper 114 extending
along a mouth formed opposite of a sealed bottom. The package 110
comprises first and second opposing panels 116 and 118 that make up
a package body 120 and define a receptacle space 122. Connected to
the wall panel 116 is a first track 124 having a first profile 126
and a first fin portion 128 extending downward from the first
profile 126. Connected to the other wall panel 118 is a second
track 130 having a second profile 132 and a second fin portion 134
extending downward from the second profile 132. The first and
second profiles 126 and 132 are releasably engageable with each
other to provide a reclosable seal to the package 110.
[0063] Referring still to FIGS. 8-10. the package 110 further has
an optional auxiliary slider mechanism 136 and end clamps 137 that
function as described above in the slider mechanism 36 and the end
clamps 37 of FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0064] To inhibit tampering with the contents of the package 110
prior to being initially opened, the slider 136 is initially parked
in the closed position at one end of the zipper 114 as depicted in
FIG. 8. Moreover, upper edges of the first and second profiles 126
and 132 are detachably connected to each other, except at one end
of the zipper 114 supporting the parked slider 136, such that the
slider 136 cannot be moved from the closed position until the
barrier feature is broken.
[0065] As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the package 110 is provided with
first and second upstanding fins or flanges 139 and 141 that extend
upward from the respective first and second profiles 126 and 132.
The first and second upstanding fins 139 and 141 are detachably
connected to their respective first and second profiles 126 and 132
along a preferential area of weakness 143 and are fused to each
other so as to effectively connect the upper edges of the first and
second profiles 126 and 132.
[0066] The preferential area of weakness 143 may be in the form of
a scored line, a thinned line or highly orientated material. The
first and second upstanding fins 139 and 141 extend substantially
across-the bag mouth, with the exception that the fins 139 and 141
do not occupy the end portion of the zipper 114 supporting the
slider 136 while the slider 136 is in the closed position. If a
slider is not used, the first and second upstanding fins 139 and
141 may extend across the entire bag mouth. Alternatively, the
first and second upstanding fins 139 and 141 may be removed by
cutting the upstanding., fins from a remainder of the package
110.
[0067] The slider 136 is retained in the closed position by the
ends of the first and second upstanding fins 139 and 141, thereby
preventing access via the bag mouth to the interior of the package
110. The slider 136 cannot be moved from the closed position until
the first and second upstanding fins 139 and 141 are detached from
the first and second profiles 126 and 132 along the preferential
area of weakness 143. To remove the first and second upstanding
fins 139 and 141, a consumer first grasps the upstanding fins at
one end of the bag mouth as shown in FIG. 8 and then pulls the
upstanding fins in an upward direction away from the zipper 114.
The pulling force causes the package 110 to tear along the
preferential area of weakness 143. Once the first and second
upstanding fins 139 and 141 are removed the connection of the upper
edges of the first and second profiles 126 and 132 is broken
(because the first and second profiles 126 and 132 are not
connected below the preferential area of weakness 143). This allows
the slider 136 to be moved to the open position to gain access to
the interior of the package 110. FIG. 10 depicts the slider 136 in
the process of being moved toward the open position.
[0068] The first and second upstanding fins 139 and 141 include a
first layer that is substantially impermeable to at least one of
oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide and, preferably, to oxygen,
nitrogen and carbon dioxide. The first and second upstanding fins
139 and 141 may also be formed of multiple layers as discussed
above with respect to the fin portions 28 and 34. For example, as
shown in FIG. 11, the first and second upstanding fins 139 and 141
include two layers. The first layers 139a and 141a may comprise a
material that is independently selected from the materials made in
forming the first layer of the barrier partition 12 described
above. Layers 139b and 141b may be made of independently selected
tie layers as described above, for example, in forming the second
layer 48 depicted in FIG. 4.
[0069] Another embodiment of the first and second upstanding fins
139 and 141 is depicted in FIG. 12. Each of the first and second
upstanding fins 139 and 141 of FIG. 12 has three layers. Layers
139a, 139b, 141a and 141b are the same as described above in FIG.
11. Layers 139c and 141c comprise independently selected
polyolefins, including the polyolefins described above in forming
the fourth layer 61 depicted in FIG. 5.
[0070] Prior to being removed, the first and second upstanding fins
139 and 141 also restrict access to the contents of the package
110. If a consumer purchases a prepackaged package 110 with the
upstanding fins 139 and 141 intact, it is not likely that the
contents of the package 110 have been tampered with because the
slider 136 cannot be moved and the bag mouth cannot be opened
without first tearing off the upstanding fins 139 and 141. If, on
the other hand, the consumer purchases a package 110 with part or
all of the fins 139 and 141 detached from the zipper 114 along the
preferential area of weakness 143, then it is more likely that the
contents of the package 110 have been tampered with. Thus, the
upstanding fins 139 and 141 also provide an effective
tamper-evident feature for the package 110.
[0071] The first and second profiles 126 and 132. as shown, for
example. in FIGS. 11 and 12 may have multiple layers. In FIG. 11,
the first and second profiles 126 and 132 have respective layers
126a and 132a comprised of a material that is independently
selected from the materials made in forming the first layer of the
barrier partition 12 described above. Layers 126b and 132b of the
first and second profiles 126 and 132, respectively, may be made of
independently selected tie layers as described above, for example,
in forming the second layer 48 depicted in FIG. 4. In FIG. 12,
layers 126c and 132c of the first and second profiles 126 and 132,
respectively, comprise independently selected polyolefins,
including the polyolefins described above in forming the fourth
layer 61 depicted in FIG. 5.
[0072] The first and second profiles 126 and 132 may be coated or
laminated with a material that is substantially impermeable to at
least one of oxygen, nitrogen or carbon dioxide. This coating or
lamination may comprise the materials described above in forming
the first layer of the barrier partition 12.
[0073] It is contemplated that additional materials may be added in
forming the first and second profiles 126 and 132. These materials
include various fillers, such as clay, talc, mica and
nanocomposites which may be more cost effective. These fillers may
provide a tortuous path for oxygen, nitrogen or carbon dioxide.
These materials may be blended with other materials in the
formation of the first and second profiles 126 and 132. These
materials may be added in a sufficient amount so that the first and
second profiles 126 and 132 are substantially impermeable to at
least one of oxygen, nitrogen or carbon dioxide.
[0074] Referring to FIGS. 13-15, reclosable packages 155 and 165,
respectively, employ a barrier feature in accordance with the
present invention. Elements of the reclosable packages 155 and 165
in FIGS. 13 and 14, respectively, correspond to elements of the
package 110 in FIG. 8 and are designated by the same reference
numerals. The reclosable packages 155 and 165 are similar to the
package 110 with the exception that the upper edges of the first
and second profiles 126 and 132 are directly connected to each
other along a line of connection without the use of the upstanding
fins 139 and 141 of FIGS. 8-10.
[0075] As shown in FIGS. 13-15. barrier features proximate to the
upper edges of profiles may be accomplished in several ways. In
FIG. 13, a continuous bead of adhesive 157 is applied across the
upper edges of the profiles 126 and 132. Alternatively. the upper
edges of the profiles may be continuously sealed to each other by
thermal fusion. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 14, an upper
edge of the first profile 126 is integrally formed with an upper
edge of the second profile 132. To achieve this integral
connection, the first and second profiles 126 and 132 may be
extruded as one piece as shown in FIG. 15 and then folded into an
interlocking relationship.
[0076] The continuous bead of adhesive 157 (see FIG. 13) is
comprised of an adhesive that is substantially impermeable to at
least oxygen, nitrogen or carbon dioxide. The continuous bead of
adhesive 157 preferably is substantially impermeable to oxygen,
nitrogen and carbon dioxide. The impermeability of the adhesive 157
increases when the cross-sectional thickness of the adhesive is
increased. The continuous bead of adhesive 157 may be made from hot
melt adhesives such as linear saturated polyesters or polyimides,
reactive thermosetting adhesives, polyester and polyurethane
solutions, solvent and water based adhesives, thermosetting nitrile
phenolics, and liquid crystal polymers.
[0077] Like the upstanding fins 139 and 141 in FIGS. 8-10, the
continuous line of connection of the upper profile edges in FIGS.
13 and 14 extends substantially across the bag mouth. If a slider
is used, the line of connection does not occupy the end portion of
the zipper 114 supporting the slider 136 while the slider 136 is in
a closed position. The movement of the slider 136 from the closed
position will break the line of connection formed by, for example,
the continuous bead of adhesive 157 of FIG. 13. The slider 136
includes a pointed separator finger (not shown) located between the
first and second profiles 126 and 132. As the slider 136 is moved
from the closed position to the open position, the separator finger
of the slider 136 simultaneously disengages the first and second
profiles 126 and 132 from each other and breaks the line of
connection along the upper edges of the profiles.
[0078] In addition to being a substantially impermeable barrier,
the line of connection along the upper profile edges serves as an
effective tamper-evident feature because the line of connection
restricts access to the contents of the packages 155 and 165. If a
consumer purchases a prepackaged package 155 or 165 with the line
of connection intact. it is less likely that the contents of the
package 155 or 165 have been tampered with.
[0079] The packages 155 and 165 of FIGS. 13 and 14, respectively,
may have first and second fin portions 128 and 134 made by the same
materials as described above in forming the first and second fin
portions 26 and 34. The fin portions 128 and 134 may be formed from
multi-layers. The packages 155 and 165 of FIGS. 13 and 14,
respectively, have first and second profiles 126 and 132 made of a
first layer substantially impermeable to at least one of oxygen,
nitrogen or carbon dioxide. The first and second profiles 126 and
132 may be formed from multi-layers.
[0080] While the present invention has been described with
reference to one or more particular embodiments, those skilled in
the art will recognize that many changes may be made thereto
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention. Each of these embodiments and obvious variations thereof
is contemplated as falling within the spirit and scope of the
claimed invention, which is set forth in the following claims.
* * * * *