U.S. patent application number 10/772095 was filed with the patent office on 2004-11-11 for systems and methods for providing nested disposable bags for selective use.
Invention is credited to Berrett, Sheldon K., Martin, Mark T..
Application Number | 20040223664 10/772095 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33134963 |
Filed Date | 2004-11-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040223664 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Martin, Mark T. ; et
al. |
November 11, 2004 |
Systems and methods for providing nested disposable bags for
selective use
Abstract
Systems and methods for providing nested disposable bag packs
for selective use to increase user efficiency, to enhance health
and sanitation, to provide a savings of time and money in using
disposable bags, to selectively provide needed bag strength, and/or
to facilitate use of the disposable bags. A nested disposable bag
pack is used to allow a new bag or bag-set to be available upon
extraction of a previous bag/bag-set. The nested bag pack is a
pre-packaged, multi-inserted bag pack, wherein the bags have been
inserted within one another during the manufacturing process. The
bags comprise a disposable material, such as a polymer (e.g.,
polyethylene or another polymer material), paper, or another
material. The nested bag pack has a variety of uses in a variety of
industries, including household and commercial use.
Inventors: |
Martin, Mark T.; (North Salt
Lake, UT) ; Berrett, Sheldon K.; (Bonaire,
GA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
David B. Tingey
KIRTON & McCONKIE
60 East South Temple, Suite 1800
Salt Lake City
UT
84111
US
|
Family ID: |
33134963 |
Appl. No.: |
10/772095 |
Filed: |
February 3, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60445012 |
Feb 4, 2003 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
383/37 ; 383/22;
383/33; 383/42; 383/63; 383/71 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65F 1/062 20130101;
B65D 33/001 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
383/037 ;
383/022; 383/033; 383/042; 383/063; 383/071 |
International
Class: |
B65D 030/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A bag pack comprising: a plurality of bags including a first bag
and a second bag, wherein the plurality of bags are associated in a
nested configuration such that upon extraction of the first bag
from the bag pack, the second bag is automatically available for
use.
2. A bag pack as recited in claim 1, wherein the nested
configuration comprises a series of inter-inserted bags of the
plurality of bags.
3. A bag pack as recited in claim 2, wherein the nested
configuration is produced by a prepackaged process.
4. A bag pack as recited in claim 3, wherein the prepackaged
process comprises at least one of: (i) a vacuum method; (ii) a
blown air method; (iii) a drape horse method; and (iv) a push rod
method.
5. A bag pack as recited in claim 3, wherein the bag pack is
arranged in a packaged configuration, and wherein the packaged
configuration comprises at least one of: (i) a flat lay method;
(ii) a single roll method; (iii) a multiple roll method; (iv) a
pack-stack method; and (v) a single-stack method.
6. A bag pack as recited in claim 1, wherein at least a portion of
the bag pack is coupled to a supportive structure to place the bag
pack in a usable position.
7. A bag pack as recited in claim 6, wherein the supportive
structure comprises at least one of: (i) a shell; (ii) a wall;
(iii) a cupboard; (iv) a frame; (v) a hook; and (vi) a
container.
8. A bag pack as recited in claim 6, wherein the supportive
structure is one of: (i) a disposable supportive structure; and
(ii) a reusable supportive structure.
9. A bag pack as recited in claim 1, wherein the plurality of bags
are coupled to a single rim that is selectively coupled to a
supportive structure.
10. A bag pack as recited in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality
of bags is coupled to a corresponding rim to form a plurality of
inter-coupling rims.
11. A bag pack as recited in claim 1, further comprising a coupling
mechanism to selectively maintain the plurality of bags in the
nested configuration, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises at
least one of: (i) a perforation; (ii) a seam; (iii) an
interconnecting device; (iv) a weld; (v) a clip; (vi) an adhesive;
and (vii) a cord.
12. A bag pack as recited in claim 1, wherein the first bag is a
bag-set.
13. A bag pack as recited in claim 1, wherein the plurality of bags
are one of: (i) disposable; and (ii) reusable.
14. A bag pack as recited in claim 1, further comprising one or
more closure mechanisms coupled to each of the plurality of bags,
wherein the closure mechanism comprise at least one of: (i) a cord;
(ii) a die cut; (iii) a draw string; (iv) an aperture; (v) a patch
handle; (vi) a peel seal; (vii) a purse clip; (viii) a snap; (ix) a
satchel; (x) a strap; (xi) a tassel; (xii) a tie; (xiii) an
interconnecting zipping mechanism; and (xiv) a star seal.
15. A method for using one or more bags, the method comprising:
providing a bag pack, wherein the bag pack comprises a plurality of
bags including a first bag and a second bag, wherein the plurality
of bags are associated in a nested configuration such that upon
extraction of the first bag from the bag pack, the second bag is
automatically available for use; placing the bag pack in a usable
position; placing one or more items in the first bag; and
extracting the first bag from the bag pack.
16. A method as recited in claim 15, wherein the step for placing
the bag pack in a usable position comprises at least one of: (i)
coupling the bag pack to a supportive structure; (ii) coupling a
lid to a supportive structure, wherein plurality of bags are
coupled to the lid; and (iii) coupling a set of inter-coupling lids
to a supportive structure, wherein each of the plurality of bags is
coupled to one of the inter-coupling lids.
17. A method as recited in claim 16, wherein the step for
extracting the first bag from the bag pack comprises at least one
of: (i) tearing at least a portion of the first bag; (ii)
decoupling the first bag from the second bag at one of a seam, a
perforation, and a weld; (iii) pulling on a cord; (iv) unzipping
the first bag from the second bag; (v) detaching the first bag from
the second bag; (vi) untying the first bag from the second bag;
(vii) unclipping the first bag from the second bag; (viii)
decoupling a first inter-coupling lid of the inter-coupling lid set
from a second inter-coupling lid of the inter-coupling lid set; and
(ix) unsticking an adhesive.
18. A method as recited in claim 15, wherein the step for
extracting the first bag from the bag pack comprises: determining a
desired bag strength for containing the one or more items; and if
the desired bag strength is greater than a bag strength of the
first bag, extracting the first bag with one or more additional
bags of the bag pack to provide the desired bag strength.
19. A method for manufacturing a bag pack, the method comprising:
inserting a first bag into a second bag of the bag pack, wherein
the bag pack comprises a plurality of bags including the first bag
and the second bag, wherein the plurality of bags are associated in
a nested configuration such that upon extraction of the first bag
from the bag pack, the second bag is automatically available for
use; and using a coupling mechanism to selectively maintain the
nested configuration.
20. A method as recited in claim 19, wherein the step for inserting
the first bag into the second bag of the bag pack comprises at
least one of: (i) a vacuum method; (ii) a blown air method; (iii) a
drape horse method; and (iv) a push rod method.
21. A method as recited in claim 20, wherein the coupling mechanism
comprises at least one of: (i) a single rim; (ii) a plurality of
inter-coupling rims; (iii) a seam; (iv) an interconnecting device;
(v) a weld; (vi) a clip; (vii) an adhesive; and (viii) a cord.
22. A method as recited in claim 20, further comprising a step for
creating a decoupling mechanism.
23. A method as recited in claim 22, wherein the decoupling
mechanism comprises at least one of: (i) a perforation; and (ii) a
cord.
24. A method as recited in claim 19, further comprising a step for
coupling the bag pack to a supportive structure.
25. A method as recited in claim 19, further comprising a step for
packaging the bag pack, wherein the step for packaging the bag pack
comprise at least one of: (i) a flat lay method; (ii) a single roll
method; (iii) a multiple roll method; (iv) a pack-stack method; and
(v) a single-stack method.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Serial No. 60/445,012, which was filed on Feb. 4, 2003
and is entitled PROVIDING NESTED DISPOSABLE BAGS FOR SELECTIVE USE,
which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to disposable bags. In
particular, the present invention relates to systems and methods
for providing nested disposable bags for selective use. In at least
some implementations of the present invention the nested disposable
bags increase user efficiency, enhance health and sanitation,
provide a savings of time and/or money in using disposable bags,
selectively provide needed bag strength for the user, and/or
facilitate use of the disposable bags.
[0004] 2. Background and Related Art
[0005] Disposable bags are currently available in a variety of
sizes and are used in a variety of industries. The disposable bags
typically include a polymer material, such as polyethylene, and are
individually manufactured to a particular thickness depending on
the intended use of the bags. Both residential and industrial
consumers have found disposable bags to be useful in performing
tasks.
[0006] By way of example, residential consumers use disposable bags
to contain food (e.g., sandwiches, chips, fruit, vegetables, bread,
etc.), household garbage (e.g., bottles, cans, papers, etc.),
environmental garbage (e.g., sticks, weeds, grass clippings,
leaves, etc.), storage items (e.g., clothing, blankets, etc.), and
other residential or household objects. In one technique, the
disposable bags are available to consumers in prepackaged rolls,
wherein the individual bags are attached end-to-end. A consumer
rolls out a first bag, rips off the first bag from the roll, opens
the bag and uses it for containing one or more objects. While the
disposable bags are available to residential consumers, a common
frustration of using disposable bags is that the disposable bags
are tedious to open and tend to tear open or otherwise break. This
is particularly true when the disposable bag is a garbage bag that
is used to contain garbage, such as household garbage and/or
environmental garbage.
[0007] Industrial or commercial consumers use disposable bags to
pack goods sold to customers (e.g., groceries, clothing, office
equipment, electronic consumer devices, household items, etc.), to
line commercial garbage cans, to protect goods, and the like.
Challenges in using the disposable bags include the time required
to change the disposable bags, and the tendency that disposable
bags rip open or otherwise break.
[0008] Thus, while techniques currently exist that are used to
provide disposable bags, challenges still exist with the available
techniques, including the time required to manipulate the bags and
the tendency of the bags ripping open or otherwise breaking.
Accordingly, it would be an improvement in the art to augment or
even replace current techniques with other techniques.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention relates to disposable bags. In
particular, the present invention relates to systems and methods
for providing nested disposable bags for selective use. In at least
some implementations of the present invention the nested disposable
bags increase user efficiency, enhance health and/or sanitation,
provide a savings of time and/or money in using disposable bags,
selectively provide needed bag strength for the user, and/or
facilitate use of the disposable bags.
[0010] Implementation of the present invention takes place in
association with a nested bag stack or pack, which includes a
plurality of bags that are nested or otherwise inserted one inside
another. The nested bag pack allows for use of a first bag or
bag-set. Upon extraction of the used bag or bag-set, a subsequent
bag or bag-set is automatically available and ready for use.
[0011] In at least some implementations of the present invention, a
nested bag pack is a pre-packaged, multi-inserted pack of bags,
wherein the bags have been inserted within one another during the
manufacturing process. A bag pack may be made available in a
variety of shapes, sizes, thicknesses and/or colors. And, in at
least some implementations of the present invention, the nested
bags comprise a disposable material, such as a polymer
material:(e.g., polyethylene or another plastic or polymer
material), paper, or another material.
[0012] Nested bag packs have a variety of uses in a variety of
industries, including household and commercial use. For example,
residential consumers use disposable nested bags for the containing
of food (e.g., sandwiches, chips, fruit, vegetables, bread, etc.),
household garbage (e.g., bottles, cans, papers, etc.),
environmental garbage (e.g., sticks, weeds, grass clippings,
leaves, etc.), storage items (e.g., clothing, blankets, etc.),
and/or other residential or household objects. In one
implementation, the strength of the nested bags is determined by
the user at the time of extraction of the used bags by extracting
the number of nested bags to provide the strength needed for the
task at hand. Industrial or commercial consumers use disposable
bags to pack goods sold to customers (e.g., groceries, clothing,
office equipment, electronic consumer devices, household items,
etc.), to line commercial garbage cans, to protect goods, and the
like.
[0013] Thus, some implementations of the present invention embrace
systems, methods and/or processes for manufacturing or otherwise
producing nested bag packs. Other implementations of the present
invention embrace the utilization of the nested bag packs. As
provided above, the utilization of the nested bag packs increase
user efficiency, enhance health and/or sanitation, provide a
savings of time and/or money in using disposable bags, selectively
provide needed bag strength for the user, and/or facilitate use of
the disposable bags. Furthermore, in at least some implementations
of the present invention, structures are provided or utilized to
enable freestanding, hanging, and/or supported prepackaged nested
bag packs for use.
[0014] While the methods and processes of the present invention
have proven to be particularly useful in the area of containing the
representative items discussed above, those skilled in the art will
appreciate that the methods and processes of the present invention
can be used in a variety of different applications and in a variety
of different areas of manufacture wherever bags are used, including
in commercial, industrial, retail, packaging and residential
applications.
[0015] These and other features and advantages of the present
invention will be set forth or will become more fully apparent in
the description that follows and in the appended claims. The
features and advantages may be realized and obtained by means of
the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the
appended claims. Furthermore, the features and advantages of the
invention may be learned by the practice of the invention or will
be obvious from the description, as set forth hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] In order that the manner in which the above recited and
other features and advantages of the present invention are
obtained, a more particular description of the invention will be
rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are
illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that the
drawings depict only typical embodiments of the present invention
and are not, therefore, to be considered as limiting the scope of
the invention, the present invention will be described and
explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of
the accompanying drawings in which:
[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a representative embodiment of a nested
disposable bag pack in accordance with the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates a representative embodiment of a nested
disposable bag pack in a disposable-shell configuration;
[0019] FIG. 3 illustrates a representative embodiment of a nested
disposable bag pack in a hanging-pack configuration;
[0020] FIG. 4 illustrates another representative embodiment of a
nested disposable bag pack in a hanging-pack configuration;
[0021] FIG. 5 illustrates a representative embodiment of a
hanging-pack configuration in a waste receptacle;
[0022] FIG. 6 illustrates a representative embodiment of a nested
disposable bag pack in a waste receptacle, wherein each bag
includes its own disposable rim;
[0023] FIG. 7 illustrates a representative embodiment of a nested
disposable bag pack, wherein individual bags are coupled to a
single disposable rim or lid;
[0024] FIGS. 8-12 illustrate a variety of other representative
embodiments of nested disposable bag packs, wherein the individual
bags are coupled to or associated with a single rim or lid;
[0025] FIG. 13 illustrates a representative embodiment of a nested
disposable bag pack in a disposable shell or structure;
[0026] FIG. 14 illustrates a representative embodiment of a nested
disposable bag pack, wherein each bag is coupled to and includes an
inter-stacking disposable rim;
[0027] FIG. 15 illustrates a representative embodiment of a manual
attachment of a bag pack to a surface or structure with the use of
a clip or brace;
[0028] FIGS. 16-17 illustrate a representative embodiment for
selectively extracting one or more bags from a bag pack; and
[0029] FIG. 18 illustrates a representative embodiment for
providing a flat lay bag pack.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0030] The present invention relates to disposable bags. In
particular, the present invention relates to systems and methods
for providing nested disposable bags for selective use. In at least
some implementations of the present invention the nested disposable
bags increase user efficiency, enhance health and/or sanitation,
provide a savings of time and/or money in using disposable bags,
selectively provide needed bag strength for the user, and/or
facilitate use of the disposable bags.
[0031] Embodiments of the present invention take place in
association with a nested disposable bag pack. A nest, cluster,
bundle, stack or pack comprises a plurality of bags that are
inserted one inside another. A nested disposable bag pack allows
use of a first bag or bag-set, and upon extraction of the used bag
or bag-set, a subsequent bag or bag-set is automatically available
and ready for use.
[0032] In some embodiments, the nested bag pack is a pre-packaged,
multi-inserted bag pack, wherein the bags have been inserted within
one another during the manufacturing process. At least some
embodiments of the present invention embrace freestanding, hanging
and/or supported nested disposable bag packs.
[0033] In further embodiments, at least a portion of the bags are
fused or otherwise coupled together to selectively maintain a
nested association. The bags are selectively extracted from the
nest according to a desired strength, use, and the like. The
coupling mechanism used to couple the bags of the nest enable
selective decoupling of one or more bags from the nest or pack for
use.
[0034] Embodiments of the present invention embrace bag packs that
are provided in a variety of shapes, sizes, thicknesses and/or
colors. Furthermore, the bags comprise a disposable material, such
as a polymer (e.g., polyethylene or another plastic or polymer
material), paper, or another material. The nested bag pack has a
variety of uses in a variety of industries, including household and
commercial use.
[0035] Accordingly, at least some embodiments of the present
invention embrace systems and methods whereby multiple bags are
pre-inserted during the manufacturing process such that a
subsequent or new bag or bag pack is automatically in place when
the previous or used bag or bag pack is removed. Moreover at least
some embodiments of the present invention embrace providing
multi-inserted bags that are pre-hung within a disposable
receptacle, shell, hanger or structure, which can be discarded
along with the last bag of the set, wherein the disposable
receptacle makes bag installation more convenient and eliminates
the need for a durable bag container, thereby making the product
freestanding and/or self-containing.
[0036] In one embodiment, a nested bag pack is provided in a
garbage receptacle to provide convenience. Upon removing a full
bag, the remaining layers of unused bags are pressed against the
inner wall(s) and/or bottom of the receptacle making the next bag
or bag-set automatically available and ready for use.
[0037] Embodiments of the present invention provides a variety of
advantages over current techniques, including reducing the amount
of time required to cause a subsequent bag available for use and
facilitating use of disposable bags. Furthermore embodiments of the
present invention embrace in all applications where bags are
filled, such as bagging merchandise at a supermarket or other
retail checkout counter, bagging vegetables in a produce
department, etc. Moreover, embodiments of the present invention
embrace use in the meatpacking industry, garbage industry,
janitorial industry, commercial industry, industrial industry,
landscaping industry, and other industries that utilize disposable
bags, including residential use of bags. At least some embodiments
of the present invention further reduce skin contact between
consumers and contaminated trash canisters by eliminating the need
to install a new bag in a waste receptacle once a used bag has been
removed.
[0038] The following disclosure of the present invention is grouped
into five subheadings, namely "Utilization of Nested Bags",
"Utilization of Supportive Structures", "Selectively Detaching
Nested Bags", "Producing Nested Bag Packs" and "Packaging Nested
Bag Packs." The utilization of the subheadings is for convenience
of the reader only and is not to be construed as limiting in any
sense.
Utilization of Nested Bags
[0039] As provided above, embodiments of the present invention
relate to systems and methods for providing nested disposable bags
for selective use. Pre-packaged, multi-inserted bags, which include
a plurality of bags that have been inserted, coupled together
and/or otherwise provided one within another during the
manufacturing process, are provided for selective use. Utilization
of the nested disposable bags increase user efficiency, enhance
health and/or sanitation, provide a savings of time and/or money in
using disposable bags, selectively provide needed bag strength for
the user, and/or facilitate use of the disposable bags.
[0040] With reference to FIG. 1, a representative embodiment of a
nested disposable bag pack is illustrated. In FIG. 1, nested bag
pack 10 is a pre-packaged, multi-inserted bag pack, wherein bags 12
have been inserted within one another during the manufacturing
process. The nested nature of bags 12 enables use of a first bag or
bag-set, and upon extraction of the used bag or bag-set, automatic
availability of a subsequent bag or bag-set for use.
[0041] In FIG. 1, nested bags include a first bag 12a, a second bag
12b, and a third bag 12c. Once a user has filled or otherwise used
bag 12a, the user may extract bag 12a. Upon extraction of bag 12a,
bag 12b is available for filling or use. Once bag 12b has been
filled or used, it may be extracted from the bag pack. The
extraction of bag 12b causes bag 12c automatically available for
filling or use.
[0042] In another embodiment, if the user needs additional strength
to contain one or more items, such as when the user is filling bag
12a with one or more items that would cause bag 12a to rip or with
a liquid that could escape through a hole in a single bag, the user
may extract multiple bags for increased strength. Thus, in the
example illustrated in FIG. 1, the user may extract bags 12a and
12b as a bag-set to provide increased strength.
[0043] While the present illustration includes a bag pack having
three nested bags, those skilled in the art will appreciate that
embodiments of the present invention embrace bag pack with less
than three nested bags and bag packs with more than three nested
bags.
[0044] Embodiments of the present invention embrace nested bags
that comprise one or more of a variety of types and/or materials.
For example, embodiments of the present invention embrace nested
bags that comprise a plastic, paper, polymer or other material.
Further the nested bags may be designed or otherwise used for a
variety of purposes. Examples of such materials and purposes
include anti-static bags, aviation bags, Billy bags, bread &
roll bags, bubble bags, burlap bags, catering bags, cello bags,
cellophane bags, clothing bags, coin bags, craft bags, diaper bags,
door-knob bags, envelope bags, flat bags, flat-bottom bags, foil
bags, freezer bags, frosted/frostview bags, garbage bags, garden
bags, garment bags, gingham bags, grocery bags, gusseted bags,
kitchen bags, Kraft. bags, lawnmower bags, mail bags, medical bags,
merchandise bags, mylar/metallic bags, notion bags, organza bags,
pinch bottom bags, plastic bags, poly bags, polymer bags,
polyethylene bags, polypropylene bags, polytubing bags,
polyurethane bags, pouches, produce bags, round-bottom bags,
sandwich bags, shipping bags, shopping bags, shrink bags, SOS bags,
square-bottom bags, star-bottom bags, static shielding bags,
storage bags, tote bags, trash bags, trash compactor bags, trash
liners, T-shirt bags (e.g., plastic grocery bags), vacuum bags,
wine bags, ziplock.RTM. bags, zipper bags, etc. that are in a
nested configuration for use.
[0045] At least some embodiments of the present invention embrace
freestanding, hanging and/or supported nested disposable bag packs.
Thus, with reference now to FIG. 2, a representative embodiment is
illustrated of a nested disposable bag pack in a disposable-shell
configuration. In FIG. 2, a supporting frame and/or surface is
illustrated that receives a bag pack. The supporting frame or
surface is illustrated as shell 14, which receives and holds bags
12 for use. In the illustrated embodiment, shell 14 is disposable.
In other embodiments, shell 14 is not disposable and thus
reusable.
[0046] Alternatively, FIG. 3 illustrates a representative
embodiment of a nested disposable bag pack in a hanging
configuration. In FIG. 3, the supporting frame and/or surface
includes surface 16 and frame 18. Surface 16 is for example a wall,
cupboard, frame or other surface or device that provides sufficient
strength to support a bag pack (bags 12). Frame 18 is for example a
hook, rim or frame from which to hang a bag pack (bags 12).
[0047] With reference now to FIG. 4, another representative
embodiment of a nested disposable bag pack in a hanging position is
illustrated. In FIG. 4, the structure and/or frame is illustrated
as frame 20, which is a sturdy frame that provides sufficient
strength to support a bag pack (bags 12). Frame 20 may comprise a
variety of materials, including a metal, metal alloy, polymer, or
other material that provides sufficient strength to support a bag
pack.
[0048] With reference now to FIG. 5, another representative
embodiment of a hanging-pack is illustrated. In FIG. 5, a bag pack
(bags 12) is supported by a container 22. In a further embodiment,
container 22 is a trash or waste receptacle. In a further
embodiment, once a first bag of the bag pack is filled, the
remaining;bags of the bag pack are biased toward the container.
Once the first bag or bag-set is extracted, the remaining bags are
maintained near the container and the next bag is automatically
available for filling or use.
[0049] In some embodiments of the present invention, each bag of
the bag pack includes an inter-stacking/inter-coupling rim or
structure. A representative example is illustrated in FIG. 6,
wherein a bag pack is received by container 22, and wherein bags
12a, 12b and 12c are respectively coupled to inter-stacking rims
24a, 24b and 24c. Therefore, bag 12a may be removed from the bag
pack by lifting rim 24a and extracting bag 12a from the bag pack.
In a further embodiment, rim 24a is used to close or seal the
opening of bag 12a. Therefore, for example, by twisting or
otherwise manipulating rim 24a, the opening of bag 12a is closed.
Likewise, multiple rims may be manipulated in concert when a bag
set is extracted.
[0050] In some embodiments, a bag pack is associated with a single
rim. With reference to FIG. 7, a representative embodiment of a
nested disposable bag pack (bags 12) with a single rim 26 is
illustrated. Container 22 is configured to receive the bag pack
(bags 12) and rim 26. In some embodiments, the rim is disposable. A
disposable rim facilitates installing the nested bag pack. Further,
the disposable rim may be coupled to the disposable bags, and a
mechanism (e.g., perforation, string, cord, plastic weld, etc.) is
provided to enable separation and extraction of one or more bags
from the rest of the pack, after use.
[0051] Embodiments of the present invention embrace the location of
the mechanism at any of a variety of locations. For example, in one
embodiment, the location is at the inside surface of the rim. In
another embodiment, the location is below the rim. In yet another
embodiment, the location is at or near an outside surface of the
rim or container to provide additional bag surface area needed to
close or tie the bag opening. In one embodiment, the bags detach
from their nest much further down a long "lip" that extends over
the edge and several inches down the outside of the receptacle.
This can be done with or without a rim. Further, it can be done in
association with any type of a structure or with no structure at
all. Thus, at least some embodiments embrace separating bags at a
location such that it provides a needed portion of the bag to be
able to close or seal the opening of the bag even when the bag is
overfilled.
[0052] Embodiments of the present invention embrace a variety of
different types of rims or lids associated with a bag pack in
accordance with the present invention. As provided herein the rims
or lids may be disposable or reusable. FIGS. 8-12 illustrate a
variety of representative embodiments of nested disposable bag
packs, wherein the individual bags are coupled or otherwise
associated with a single rim or lid.
[0053] As provided above in association with FIG. 2, at least some
of the embodiments of the present invention embrace the use of a
shell that provides support allowing the bag pack to be
freestanding and/or self-containing. In some embodiments, the shell
is reusable. In other embodiments, the shell is disposable. In
further embodiments, the nested bag pack is coupled to the
disposable shell, and a mechanism (e.g., perforation, string, cord,
etc.) is provided to enable separation and extraction of one or
more bags from the rest of the pack, after use. An example of a
nested bag pack that includes a shell as a supporting structure is
illustrated in FIG. 13.
[0054] As provided above in association with FIG. 6, some
embodiments of the present invention embrace a nested bag pack
wherein each bag includes its own rim. An example of a nested bag
pack with individual disposable rims is illustrated in FIG. 14,
where bag 12a is coupled to rim 24a, bag 12b is coupled to rim 24b,
and bag 12c is coupled to rim 24c. The individual rims 24 are
associated with each other to enable use of the nested bag pack. In
the illustrated embodiment, rims 24 are inter-stacking rims.
Therefore, rim 24a stacks on top of rim 24b, which stacks on top of
rim 24c. A user may selectively extract one or more of the bags 12
from the bag pack. In a further embodiment, and as discussed above,
the individual rims 24 selectively collapse to close the
corresponding bags.
[0055] Embodiments of the present invention also embrace selective
coupling of a nested bag pack to a structure. In one embodiment, a
portion of the bag pack is attached to a surface or structure, such
as the rim of a receptacle or hanger, by way of mechanisms (e.g.,
strings, cords, adhesives, clips, manufactured, portions, etc.).
With reference to FIG. 15, a representative embodiment of a manual
attachment device is illustrated, wherein a bag pack is manually
attached to a surface or structure (container 22) with the use of a
clip 28.
[0056] As discussed herein, at least some embodiments of the
present invention embrace selective extraction of one or more bags
from a nested bag pack. A mechanism (e.g., perforation, string,
cord, plastic weld, etc.) is provided to enable separation and
extraction of one or more bags. A user may desire increased
strength (e.g., when the contents are heavy, may puncture or tear,
are liquid, are fragile, or the like). Accordingly, the user may
selectively extract more than one bag at a time from the nested bag
pack. Alternatively, the bags may be extracted/used one at a time.
An example of extracting one or more bags from a nested bag pack is
illustrated in FIGS. 16-17, wherein a mechanism is provided that
allows the user to selectively extract one or more bags from the
nested bag pack. In FIG. 16 a container is illustrated that is
configured to receive a bag pack and a lid, wherein a mechanism
(e.g., tab 30) is provided to enable separation of one bag from
another of the bag pack. As illustrated in FIG. 17, a user may
remove tab 30 to extract a bag or bag-set from a bag pack.
[0057] As discussed above, embodiments of the present invention
embrace the location of the mechanism at any of a variety of
locations. For example, in one embodiment, the location is at the
inside surface of the rim, as illustrated in FIGS. 16-17. In
another embodiment, the location is below the rim. In yet another
embodiment, the location is at or near an outside surface of the
rim or container to provide additional bag surface area needed to
close or tie the bag opening. In one embodiment, the bags detach
from their nest much further down a long "lip" that extends over
the edge and several inches down the outside of the receptacle.
This can be done with or without a rim. Further, it can be done in
association with any type of a structure or with no structure at
all. Thus, at least some embodiments embrace separating bags at a
location such that it provides a needed portion of the bag to be
able to close or seal the opening of the bag even when the bag is
overfilled.
[0058] A nested bag pack may be provided to a consumer in a variety
of manners. One representative embodiment is illustrated in FIG.
18, which includes a packaging method wherein the nested bag pack
is packaged flat.
[0059] Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention embrace
disposable bags. In. particular, the present invention relates to
systems and methods for providing nested disposable bags for
selective use. In at least some implementations of the present
invention the nested disposable bags increase user efficiency,
enhance health and/or sanitation, provide a savings of time and/or
money in using disposable bags, selectively provide needed bag
strength for the user, and/or facilitate use of the disposable
bags.
[0060] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that embodiments of
the present invention embrace a variety of uses in a variety of
industries. One such industry includes waste disposal and/or the
janitorial industry. Examples of where such embodiments of the
present invention may be used include airports, factories, plants,
warehouses, home (e.g., kitchen, garden etc.), office, office
buildings, parks, amusements parks, recreational areas, public
areas, public buildings, libraries, restaurants, food chains and
commercial kitchens, retail stores, centers, malls, schools,
theaters, auditoriums, concert halls, hospitals, medical offices,
and the like.
[0061] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other
embodiments of the present invention embrace a variety of other
uses, including uses outside of the waste disposal/janitorial
industry. Examples include food packaging at restaurants and food
chains (e.g., to wrap hamburgers, etc.), food, beverage, drug and
cosmetic packaging, storage and shipping, freezing and storing,
gift wrapping/packaging, ice cream bags when buying ice cream,
lawnmower bags, mail bags, meat packing/packaging, merchandise
wrapping, packing/packaging and shipping, oven bags, packaging and
manufacturing, produce bags when shopping at the grocery store,
shipping and packaging (e.g., FedEx.RTM., UPS.RTM., etc.), shopping
and grocery bags (e.g., in place of plastic T-shirt bags), storage,
and the like. In some embodiments, handles are attached provided in
the individual bags of the bag pack so that the handles can be used
once one or more bags are removed from the bag pack.
[0062] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that embodiments of
the present invention embrace a variety of closure styles. Examples
include cord handle, die cut, draw string, hang holes, patch
handle, peel seal, purse clip, rat tail cord, re-closable, rigid
snap, rope handle, satchel, soft loop handle, strap handle, tassel,
tin tie, zip-loc.RTM., zipper, star seal, quick tie, and the
like.
Utilization of Supportive Structures
[0063] As provided above, some embodiments of the present invention
embrace the utilization of a support structure in association with
a bag pack. Some examples of support structures include a shell
(e.g., FIGS. 2 and 13), a rim or lid (e.g., FIGS. 7-12), individual
rims or lids (e.g., FIGS. 6 and 14), a surface (e.g., FIG. 3), a
frame (e.g., FIG. 4), a container (e.g., FIGS. 5-6), etc.
[0064] In one embodiment, a "pack" is attached to a "disposable
shell" made of cardboard, plastic, or some other type of material
that can be disposed. The shell fits inside a consumer's
receptacle, or is free standing--not needing a receptacle. The
shell comes in various shapes, sizes, and designs.
[0065] In some embodiments, a bag pack is attached to a rigid-type
of material (e.g., rim or lid). The rim or lid may "snap on" to the
garbage receptacle, "lock on" to the garbage receptacle, "hook on"
to the garbage receptacle, be attached to the garbage receptacle
with velcro.RTM., be stuck to the garbage receptacle with a "peel
seal", "rest upon" the garbage receptacle, etc.
[0066] Where individual lids or rims are employed, each individual
bag is joined or coupled to a separate disposable rim during the
manufacturing process. These bag/rim combinations are then stacked
one on top of another, similar to the way paper cups are stacked
upon each other, forming what is now a "pack." The "pack" is then,
for example, set upon and/or attached to a garbage receptacle in
the several ways as discussed herein. In one embodiment, each rim
snaps closed like a purse to reduce odor while its housed in the
receptacle, or to facilitate removal and disposal once the bag has
been used.
[0067] In at least some embodiments of the present invention,
manual attachment is utilized. Examples include a hanging pack,
such as illustrated in FIGS. 3-4. In some embodiments, a nested bag
pack is made to hang upon (or hold to) some type of receptacle,
cage, frame, hook, knob, box, canister, etc., by, for example, an
adhesive, a band, a bend, a clamp, a clip (e.g., FIG. 15), a
compression, a crimp, a fastener, a hook, a knot, a lid, a lock, a
magnet, a rim, a rubber band, a seal, a stitch/stitching, a snap, a
staple, a stretch, a string, a tack, a tension, a tie, a tuck, a
wire, a zip, or the like.
Selectively Detaching Nested Bags
[0068] As provided herein, bags of a nested bag pack are
selectively extracted from the nest according to a desired
strength, use, manner, etc. A coupling mechanism used to couple the
bags of the nest enables selective decoupling of one or more bags
from the nest or pack for use. Examples of methods for selectively
detaching nested bags in accordance with the present invention
include a perforated tear lines and/or pull lines method, a string
method, a peel off method, an un-zip method, a detach or un-tie
method, a free method, etc.
[0069] In a perforated tear lines and/or pull lines method, a
consumer/user takes hold of the inner bag or bag-set and pulls or
tears it away from the remaining pack. In further embodiments, the
mechanism is a plastic weld that is decoupled or ripped for
extraction of the bag or bag-set.
[0070] In at least one string method, the user or consumer grabs
hold of a string/tab or thin strip of plastic and/or metal (e.g.,
tin or another metal), which causes the inner bag or bag-set to
separate from the remaining bags of the bag pack similar to the way
in which a consumer would pull a string to open a Band-aid.RTM. or
in which a consumer would pull a thin plastic strip to open an
overnight delivery package.
[0071] In a peel off method, a user or consumer takes hold of the
inner bag and peels it out from the canister and away from the
remaining bags of the bag pack similar to the way in which a
consumer pulls a magnet from a postcard or an envelope of perfume
from a magazine, in which the magnet and/or envelope of perfume has
been placed upon the postcard and/or magazine with an adhesive that
is not intended to permanently seal it to the
magazine/postcard.
[0072] In an un-zip method, a user or consumer takes hold of the
inner bag and pulls it out from the canister and away from the
remaining "pack" similar to the way in which a consumer pulls apart
a Zip-loc.RTM. bag. In other words, during the manufacturing
process, the bags have been zipped together in order to form a bag
pack.
[0073] In a detach or untie method, a user or consumer locates the
point at which the bags have been "tied," "joined," "locked,"
"strung," "wound," or "attached" together in some way, and unties,
unbends, unwinds, and/or detaches the inner bag out from the
receptacle and away from the remaining bags of the bag pack.
[0074] In a free method, the bags are nested inside one another to
form a bag pack, but they are not directly attached to each other.
Thus, for example, once the bag pack is hung, each bag can be
freely pulled out and away from the rest of the pack.
Producing Nested Bag Packs
[0075] Embodiments of the present invention embrace a variety of
techniques for manufacturing or otherwise producing a nested bag
pack. Examples of such techniques include a vacuum method, a blown
air method, a drape horse method, a push rod method, and other
manufacturing techniques.
[0076] In a vacuum method, multiple bags are manufactured, for
example, by either a continuous tube method (seamless tube method)
or a two-side and/or three-side weld method (seamed tube method). A
specified number of bags are mechanically inset (inserted within
one another) by creating a vacuum wherein the outer bag is sucked
open such that the next bag can be brought in. The next bag is
subsequently sucked open so that the next bag may be brought in,
and so forth. This process is repeated until the specified number
of bags has been inserted. The bags are joined or welded together
along the open end of the bags in order to form a nested bag pack.
The weld may be a continuous or non-continuous line around the
circumference or at another location, or only at a few strategic
points sufficient to hold the bag pack together. Alternatively, the
open ends are welded to a more rigid type of material (e.g., a
disposable rim, lid or shell) designed to keep the bag pack
together. Zip-lock.RTM. features, drawstrings, sinusoid waves, die
cuts, perforations, and detachment devices are made to each
individual bag prior to inserting the bags within one another, or
during or after the bag insertion process. In some embodiments,
perforations and detachment devices are made so that the consumer
can separate each bag from the rest of the bag pack after use.
(e.g., FIGS. 16-17).
[0077] In a blown air method, multiple bags are manufactured, for
example, by either a continuous tube method (seamless tube method)
or a two-side and/or three-side weld method (seamed tube method). A
specified number of bags are then mechanically inset (inserted
within one another) by blowing air into the outer bag such that the
walls of the bag are-blown open such that the next bag can be
brought in. The next bag is subsequently blown open so that the
next bag can be brought in, and so forth. This process is repeated
until the specified number of bags has been inserted. The bags are
joined, coupled or welded together along the open end of the bags
in order to form a nested bag pack. The weld may be a continuous or
non-continuous line around the circumference, or only at a few
strategic points sufficient to hold the bag pack together.
Alternatively, the open ends are welded to a more rigid type of
material (e.g., disposable rim, lid or shell) designed to keep the
bag pack together. Zip-lock.RTM. features, drawstrings, sinusoid
waves, die cuts, perforations, and detachment devices are made to
each individual bag prior to inserting the bags within one another,
or during or after the bag insertion process. Perforations and
detachment devices are made so that the consumer may separate each
bag from the rest of the bag pack after use (e.g., FIGS.
16-17).
[0078] In a drape horse method, multiple bags are manufactured, for
example, by either a, continuous tube method (seamless tube method)
or a two-side and/or three-side weld method (seamed tube method). A
specified number of bags are then mechanically inset (inserted
within one another) by slipping (draping) the inner-most bag over a
frame (horse) such that the horse is brought within the walls of
the bag and the top of the horse is brought all the way to the
bottom of the bag and is surrounded by the entire vertical and
longitudinal walls of the bag causing the body of the bag to become
stiff and rigid sufficient to allow the next bag to be placed over
it. The next bag is subsequently draped over the previous bag, and
so forth. This process is repeated until a specified number of bags
has been draped. The bags are joined, coupled or welded together
along the open end of the bags in order to form a nested, bag pack.
The weld may be a continuous line around the circumference, or only
at a few strategic points sufficient to hold the bag pack together.
Alternatively, the open ends are welded to a more rigid type of
material (e.g., disposable rim, lid or shell) designed to keep the
bag pack together. Zip-lock.RTM. features, drawstrings, sinusoid
waves, die cuts, perforations, and detachment devices are made to
each individual bag prior to inserting the bags within one another,
or during or after the bag insertion process. Perforations and
detachment devices are made so that the consumer can separate each
bag from the rest of the bag pack after use (e.g., FIGS.
16-17).
[0079] In a push rod method, multiple bags are manufactured, for
example, by either a continuous tube method (seamless tube method)
or a two-side and/or three-side weld method (seamed tube method). A
specified number of bags are then mechanically inset (inserted
within one another) by sucking or blowing open the outer bag and
stuffing the next bag inside the first with a push rod. The second
bag is then sucked or blown open such that the next bag can be
stuffed in with the push rod, and so forth. This process is
repeated until the specified number of bags has been stuffed. The
bags are joined (welded) together along the open end of the bags in
order to form a nested bag pack. The weld may be a continuous line
around the circumference, or only at a few strategic points
sufficient to hold the bag pack together. Alternatively, the open
ends may be welded to a more rigid type of material (e.g.,
disposable rim, lid or shell) designed to keep the bag pack
together. Zip-lock.RTM. features, drawstrings, sinusoid waves, die
cuts, perforations, and detachment devices are made to each
individual bag prior to inserting the bags within one another, or
during or after the bag insertion process. Perforations and
detachment devices are made so that the consumer can separate each
bag from the rest of the bag pack after use (e.g., FIGS.
16-17).
Packaging Nested Bag Packs
[0080] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a
variety of techniques may be used to package nested bag packs.
Examples of such techniques include a flat lay method, a single
roll method, a multiple roll method, a pack-stack method, a
single-stack method, etc.
[0081] In a flat lay method, a bag pack is folded to lay flat on
the shelf or flat in a box. The bag pack is attached to a
collapsible rim or shell, made of cardboard, paper, plastic, or
some other type of material. The bag pack is then folded within the
walls of the shell (e.g., FIG. 18).
[0082] In a single roll method, a bag pack is provided as a roll.
Thus, each bag pack is provided as its own individual roll.
[0083] In a multiple roll method, a bag pack is provided on a roll
which must be detached along perforation lines from other bag packs
which are also attached to the same roll. Thus, multiple bag packs
are attached end to end and rolled into one roll. A user may remove
one bag pack for use at a time.
[0084] In a pack-stack method, a bag pack is provided on a shelf
stacked upon another bag pack similar to the way in which paper
cups are stacked upon each other. Each bag pack may be removed from
the stack and sold separately--as one bag pack.
[0085] In a single-stack method, bag packs are packaged using the
individual disposable-rims technique discussed herein, wherein each
box or package of bags contains a stack of bags that are
individually attached to a rim. Accordingly, each bag is placed
within a receptacle for individual use, rather than the entire
"pack" of bags being placed upon the canister at once (e.g., FIG.
14).
[0086] Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention relate to
disposable bags. In particular, the present invention relates to
systems and methods for providing nested disposable bags for
selective use. In at least some implementations of the present
invention the nested disposable bags increase user efficiency,
enhance health and/or sanitation, provide a savings of time and/or
money in using disposable bags, selectively provide needed bag
strength for the user, and/or facilitate use of the disposable
bags.
[0087] In at least some of the embodiments of the present invention
allow for a user to put all the packaged liners in the garbage
receptacle at once. Moreover, embodiments of the present invention
include the following advantages: Elimination of the task of
inserting liners one at a time. The new "one time" task is easier
to perform than the old "repetitive" task of lining a receptacle.
The garbage receptacle does not have to be relined after the top
liner is removed. It reduces the number of times one must bend over
to reline a garbage receptacle. The garbage receptacle is ready to
go again as the used liner is removed.
[0088] Embodiments of the present invention satisfy an
unappreciated need to remove a used bag without having to replace
it with a new one. The manufacturing process replaces a task
previously performed by humans. It provides a more convenient place
to store unused bags/liners. Further, it is easier to open a
prepackaged set up bags than one bag off a roll of bags. If a heavy
item is placed in the receptacle, one need only extract more than
one liner (bag) at a time to add strength and support to the heavy
matter when removing from the receptacle. If the liner begins to
leak, more than one liner can be pulled at a time to prevent the
liners from leaking when removed from the receptacle. If a liner
leaks while in the receptacle, the lower liners will catch the
leak, thus preventing the container from becoming dirty or
contaminated.
[0089] Embodiments of this invention are not limited to trash
liners. The systems and methods of the present invention work well
in any situation where bags are repetitiously filled. The bags do
not have to hang within a receptacle. For example, other structures
or hangers can support the bags. Moreover, the bags can be attached
to a disposable receptacle, rim, lid, or other rigid devise during
the manufacturing process.
[0090] By way of example, a nested bag pack may be attached to and
sold with a disposable shell that allows the bag/bag-set to be
self-standing. Alternatively, the nested bag pack can be attached
to a rim that connects or rests upon a rigid container already
owned. Alternatively, each individual bag can be attached to its
own disposable rim. The disposable rims may be stacked. Moreover,
the rims may include hinges/bends so as to snap closed after each
bag is used. Nested bag packs further eliminate the task of placing
a bag inside and around the rim of the already-owned receptacle
each time a bag is to be used.
[0091] Whatever is placed into the first bag of a bag pack that has
been set with multiple bags, will press all the bags against the
walls and bottom of the container. Therefore, when the top liner is
removed, the lower liners remain in place and do not require
further adjustment.
[0092] Multiple bagging (the process of manually placing one bag
inside of another to prevent the bags from leaking or ripping when
you fill them with a heavy or wet load) no longer has to be done
manually.
[0093] The decision to double or triple bag does not have to be
made before the bags are filled. That decision can now be made
after the bags are full, when the user has a better idea of how
many layers/bags will be necessary.
[0094] Thus, as discussed herein, embodiments of the present
invention relates to disposable bags. In particular, the present
invention relates to systems and methods for providing nested
disposable bags for selective use. In at least some implementations
of the present invention the nested disposable bags increase user
efficiency, enhance health and/or sanitation, provide a savings of
time and/or money in using disposable bags, selectively provide
needed bag strength for the user, and/or facilitate use of the
disposable bags.
[0095] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in
all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of
the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims
rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come
within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be
embraced within their scope.
* * * * *