U.S. patent application number 11/021318 was filed with the patent office on 2006-06-22 for absorbent product stacker package.
Invention is credited to James A. Boldra, Jane L. Clough, Edward J. Foley, Keith R. Haen, Linda K. Lemerande.
Application Number | 20060131200 11/021318 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36061442 |
Filed Date | 2006-06-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060131200 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Boldra; James A. ; et
al. |
June 22, 2006 |
Absorbent product stacker package
Abstract
A flexible packaging bags for containing and dispensing
articles. More particularly, the present invention relates to a
flexible packaging bag having a hanging element, permitting hanging
of the bag after the bag has been initially opened.
Inventors: |
Boldra; James A.; (Menasha,
WI) ; Clough; Jane L.; (Neenah, WI) ; Foley;
Edward J.; (Greenville, WI) ; Haen; Keith R.;
(Neenah, WI) ; Lemerande; Linda K.; (Waupaca,
WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KIMBERLY-CLARK WORLDWIDE, INC.
401 NORTH LAKE STREET
NEENAH
WI
54956
US
|
Family ID: |
36061442 |
Appl. No.: |
11/021318 |
Filed: |
December 22, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/494 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 75/563 20130101;
B65D 75/522 20130101; B65D 2575/586 20130101; B65D 85/07 20180101;
A61F 15/001 20130101; B65D 2575/565 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/494 |
International
Class: |
B65D 73/00 20060101
B65D073/00 |
Claims
1. A flexible packaging bag for containing a plurality of
disposable absorbent articles, the flexible packaging bag
comprising: a plurality of walls defining an interior space, a
plurality of disposable absorbent articles contained in the
interior space, a hanger, and an opener adapted to allow access to
the interior space, the opener defining a first condition and a
second condition, wherein the plurality of disposable absorbent
articles and the hanger are inaccessible in the first condition and
the plurality of disposable absorbent articles and the hanger are
accessible in the second condition
2. The bag of claim 1 wherein the disposable absorbent articles are
diapers.
3. The bag of claim 1 wherein the opener is a frangible line in at
least one of the walls.
4. The bag of claim 1 wherein the opener is, a zipper, a removable
tear strip or a zip lock type seal.
5. The bag of claim 1 wherein the walls comprises a poly film.
6. The bag of claim 1 wherein the walls comprise a nonwoven
material.
7. The bag of claim 1 wherein the hanger is at least one opening in
one of the walls, mechanical fasteners or ties.
8. The bag of claim 1 further comprising a closing element adapted
to define a third condition, wherein the plurality of disposable
absorbent articles are inaccessible in the third condition.
9. The bag of claim 8 wherein the hanger is accessible in the third
condition.
10. The bag of claim 8 wherein the closure means and the hanger are
similar.
11. A method of hanging a package containing absorbent articles
comprising providing the package having a first closed position
wherein the absorbent articles are inaccessible, and an opener,
opening the package by the opener, thereby exposing a hanger and
the absorbent articles, hanging the package by the hanger.
12. The method of claim 11 wherein the absorbent articles are
diapers.
13. The method of claim 11 wherein opening the package comprises
opening a frangible line in the package.
14. The method of claim 11 wherein the opener is a zipper, a
removable tear strip or a zip lock type seal.
15. The method of claim 11 wherein the package comprises a poly
film.
16. The method of claim 11 wherein the package comprises a nonwoven
material.
17. The method of claim 11 wherein the hanging element is at least
one opening in one of the walls, mechanical fasteners or ties.
18. The method of claim 11 further comprising closing the package
with a closing element forming a second closed condition, wherein
the absorbent articles are inaccessible in the second closed
condition
19. The method of claim 18 wherein the hanging element is
accessible in the second closed condition.
20. The method of claim 18 wherein the closure means and the hanger
are similar.
21. A method of providing a usage system for a flexible packaging
bag comprising: providing at least one flexible packaging bag
according to claim 1; and providing instructions directing a user
to open the flexible packaging bag to expose the hanger.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to flexible packaging bags for
containing and dispensing articles. More particularly, the present
invention relates to a flexible packaging bag having a hanger,
permitting hanging of the bag after the bag has been initially
opened.
[0002] Packaging bags composed of flexible polymer materials have
been used for packaging various types of products, such as infant
diapers, training pants, feminine care products, changing pads and
adult incontinence garments. These bags allow packaging of the
articles to create a carton-like look and a configuration
facilitating transportation and display on retail shelves. The bag
may include mechanisms for providing an access opening in the
package.
[0003] Upon opening, many consumers place the open bag either in a
closet or in a drawer, and remove a few articles to be placed next
to a changing table or crib. This creates the situation where
diapers may be located in two locations. This may also cause
problems with handling and storage of loose diapers.
[0004] Accordingly, there remains a need for packaging bags that
allow a user to hang a package in an easy and convenient way.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present inventors undertook intensive research and
development efforts concerning flexible packaging. While conducting
their research, the present inventors discovered unique flexible
packaging adapted to provide a user with a way to hang a package in
an easy and convenient way. A first version of the present
invention involves a flexible packaging bag for containing a
plurality of disposable absorbent articles. The flexible packaging
bag includes a plurality of walls defining an interior space, a
plurality of disposable absorbent articles contained in the
interior space, a hanger, and an opener. The opener is adapted to
allow access to the interior space. The opener defines a first
condition and a second condition, wherein the plurality of
disposable absorbent articles and the hanger are inaccessible in
the first condition and the plurality of disposable absorbent
articles and the hanger are accessible in the second condition
[0006] Another version of the present invention relates to a method
of hanging a package containing absorbent articles including
providing the package having a first closed position wherein the
absorbent articles are inaccessible, and an opener. The method
further includes opening the package by the opener, thereby
exposing a hanger and the absorbent articles, and hanging the
package by the hanger.
[0007] A third version of the present invention relates to a method
of providing a usage system for a flexible packaging bag including
providing at least one flexible packaging bag according to version
one from above, and providing instructions directing a user to open
the flexible packaging bag to expose the hanger.
[0008] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general
description and the following detailed description are exemplary
and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention
claimed. The accompanying drawings, that are incorporated in and
constitute part of this specification, are included to illustrate
and provide a further understanding of the articles of the
invention. Together with the description, the drawings serve to
explain various aspects of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The above-mentioned and other features of the present
invention and the manner of attaining them will become more
apparent, and the invention itself will be better understood by
reference to the following description of the invention, taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein:
[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates a plan view of a disposable absorbent
article in an unfolded, flat-out, uncontracted state (i.e., with
all elastic induced gathering and contraction removed);
[0011] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a bag;
[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a stack of
articles;
[0013] FIG. 4 illustrates a bag that has been opened to expose the
interior space and the articles contained therein;
[0014] FIG. 5A illustrates a bag in a first condition;
[0015] FIG. 5B illustrates the bag from FIG. 5A in a second
condition;
[0016] FIG. 6A illustrates a second bag in a first condition;
[0017] FIG. 6B illustrates the bag from FIG. 6A in a second
condition;
[0018] FIG. 7A illustrates a third bag in a first condition;
[0019] FIG. 7B illustrates the bag from FIG. 7A in a second
condition;
[0020] FIG. 8A illustrates a fourth bag in a first condition;
and
[0021] FIG. 8B illustrates the bag from FIG. 8A in a second
condition.
[0022] FIG. 1 illustrates a disposable absorbent article, and more
specifically a diaper (30), in which the term "disposable" means
that the diaper (30) is designed to be used until soiled and then
discarded, rather than being washed and being reused again.
Examples of other suitable disposable absorbent articles that can
be used with the flexible packaging bag of the present invention
include, but are not limited to, disposable absorbent pants,
training pants, feminine care products, incontinence products,
disposable apparel, or the like. Hereafter, when used with
reference to, by way of example, a diaper, the term "component" can
refer, but is not limited, to all or a segment of a designated
selected region, such as edges, corners, sides or the like;
structural members such as elastic strips, absorbent pads, elastic
layers or panels, layers of material, or the like; or a graphic.
The term "graphic" can refer, but is not limited, to an image,
design, pattern, symbology, indicia, or the like.
[0023] A disposable absorbent article, such as the diaper (30)
illustrated in FIG. 1, can have multiple appearance-related and/or
function-related components. Examples of components that are
appearance-related include, but are not limited to, graphics; the
highlighting or emphasizing of leg and waist openings in order to
make product shaping more evident or visible; the highlighting or
emphasizing of areas of the article to simulate functional
components such as elastic leg bands, elastic waistbands, the
highlighting of areas of the product to change the appearance of
the size of the product; selectively positioned wetness indicators;
back labels or front labels; and selectively positioned written
instructions at a desired location on the article.
[0024] Examples of functional components include, but are not
limited to, waist elastics, leg elastics, areas of breathability,
fluid repellent areas, fluid wettable areas, adhesives, coatings,
encapsulated inks, chemically-sensitive materials,
environmentally-sensitive materials, heat-sensitive materials,
moisture-sensitive materials, perfumes, odor control agents, inks,
fasteners, fluid storage areas; textured or embossed areas, or the
like.
[0025] The diaper (30) is shown in FIG. 1 in an unfolded, flat-out,
uncontracted state (i.e., with all elastic induced gathering and
contraction removed). Portions of the structure are partially cut
away to more clearly show the interior construction of the diaper
(30), with the surface of the diaper (30) which contacts the wearer
facing the viewer. FIG. 1 illustrates a disposable diaper (30) as
having a front region (32), a rear region (34) and a crotch region
(36) located between the front and rear regions. The diaper (30)
comprises a backsheet (38), a topsheet (40), and an absorbent core
(42) situated between the backsheet and the topsheet. The outer
edges of the diaper (30) define a periphery (44) with transversely
opposed, longitudinally extending side edges (46); longitudinally
opposed, transversely extending end edges (48); and a system of
elastomeric gathering members, such as a system including leg
elastics (50) and waist elastics (52). The longitudinal side edges
(46) define the leg openings (54) for the diaper (30), and
optionally, are curvilinear and contoured. The transverse end edges
(48) are illustrated as straight, but optionally, may be
curvilinear. The diaper (30) may also comprise additional
components to assist in the acquisition, distribution and storage
of bodily waste. For example, the diaper (30) may comprise a
transport layer, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,798,603,
issued to Meyer et al., or a surge management layer, such as
described in European Patent Application Publication No. 0 539 703,
published May 5, 1993.
[0026] The diaper (30) generally defines a longitudinally extending
length dimension (56), and a laterally extending width dimension
(58), as representatively illustrated in FIG. 1. The diaper (30)
may have any desired shape, such as rectangular, I-shaped, a
generally hourglass shape, or a T-shape.
[0027] The backsheet (38) defines a length and a width that, in the
illustrated version, coincide with the length and width of the
diaper (30). The absorbent core (42) generally defines a length and
width that are less than the length and width of the backsheet
(38), respectively. Thus, marginal portions of the diaper (30),
such as marginal sections of the backsheet (38), may extend past
the transversely opposed, longitudinally extending terminal side
edges (60) and/or the longitudinally opposed, transversely
extending terminal end edges (62) of the absorbent core (42) to
form side margins (64) and end margins (66) of the diaper (30). The
topsheet (40) is generally coextensive with the backsheet (38), but
may optionally cover an area that is larger or smaller than the
area of the backsheet, as desired. The backsheet (38) and topsheet
(40) are intended to face the garment and body of the wearer,
respectively, while in use. As used herein when describing the
topsheet (40) in relation to the backsheet (38) and vice versa, the
term "associated" encompasses configurations in which the topsheet
is directly joined to the backsheet, and configurations where the
topsheet is indirectly joined to the backsheet by affixing portions
of the topsheet to intermediate members which in turn are affixed
to at least portions of the backsheet. The topsheet (40) and the
backsheet (38) can, for example, be joined to each other in at
least a portion of the diaper periphery (44) by attachment
mechanisms (not shown) such as adhesive bonds, sonic bonds, thermal
bonds, pinning, stitching, or a variety of other attachment
techniques known in the art, as well as combinations thereof.
[0028] The topsheet (40) suitably presents a bodyfacing surface
which is compliant, soft feeling, and non-irritating to the
wearer's skin. Further, the topsheet (40) may be less hydrophilic
than the absorbent core (42), to present a relatively dry surface
to the wearer, and is sufficiently porous to be liquid permeable,
permitting liquid to penetrate readily through its thickness. A
suitable topsheet (40) may be manufactured from a wide selection of
web materials, such as porous foams, reticulated foams, apertured
plastic films, natural fibers, synthetic fibers (for example,
polyester or polypropylene fibers), or a combination of natural and
synthetic fibers. The topsheet (40) is suitably employed to help
isolate the wearer's skin from liquids held in the absorbent core
(42).
[0029] Various woven and nonwoven fabrics may be used for the
topsheet (40). For example, the topsheet (40) may be composed of a
meltblown or spunbonded web of polyolefin fibers. The topsheet (40)
may also be a bonded-carded web composed of natural and/or
synthetic fibers. The topsheet (40) may be composed of a
substantially hydrophobic material, and the hydrophobic material
may, optionally, be treated with a surfactant, or otherwise
processed, to impart a desired level of wettability and
hydrophilicity. Specifically, the topsheet (40) may be a nonwoven,
spunbond, polypropylene fabric composed of about 2.8 to about 3.2
denier fibers formed into a web having a basis weight of about 22
gsm and a density of about 0.06 g/cc.
[0030] By way of illustration only, the topsheet (40) may also be
surface treated with about 0.3 weight percent of a surfactant
mixture that contains a mixture of AHCOVEL Base N-62 surfactant and
GLUCOPON 220UP surfactant in about a 3:1 ratio based on a total
weight of the surfactant mixture. The AHCOVEL Base N-62 surfactant
is purchased from Hodgson Textile Chemicals Inc., a business having
offices in Mount Holly, N.C., and comprises a blend of hydrogenated
ethoxylated castor oil and sorbitan monooleate in a 55:45 weight
ratio. The GLUCOPON 220UP surfactant is purchased from Henkel
Corporation, Gulph Mills, Pa., and comprises alkyl polyglycoside.
The surfactant may also include additional ingredients such as
aloe. The surfactant may be applied by any conventional means, such
as spraying, printing, brush coating, foam or the like. The
surfactant may be applied to the entire topsheet (40) or may be
selectively applied to particular sections of the topsheet, such as
the medial section along the longitudinal centerline of a diaper,
to provide greater wettability of such sections.
[0031] The backsheet (38) may suitably be composed of a material
which is either liquid permeable or liquid impermeable. It is
generally desirable that the backsheet (38) be formed from a
substantially liquid impermeable material. For example, a typical
backsheet (38) can be manufactured from a thin plastic film or
other flexible liquid impermeable material. Moreover, the backsheet
(38) may be formed from a polyethylene film having a thickness of
from about 0.012 mm (0.5 mil) to about 0.051 mm (2.0 mils). If
desirous of presenting the backsheet (38) with a more cloth-like
feel, the backsheet may comprise a polyethylene film having
laminated to the lower or opposing surface thereof a nonwoven web,
such as a spunbond web of polyolefin fibers. For example, a
polyethylene film having a thickness of about 0.015 mm (0.6 mil)
may have thermally laminated thereto a spunbond web of polyolefin
fibers, which fibers have a thickness of about 1.5 to about 2.5
denier per filament, which nonwoven web has a basis weight of about
24 gsm (0.7 osy). Methods of forming such cloth-like outer covers
are known to those skilled in the art. Further the backsheet (38)
may be a stretchable material, a method of forming such a material
may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,226,992 issued to Morman, further
various examples of extensible materials are described in U.S. Pat.
No. 6,264,641 issued to VanGompel et al.; the entire disclosures of
which are hereby incorporated by reference in a manner that is
consistent herewith
[0032] Further, the backsheet (38) may be formed of a woven or
nonwoven fibrous web layer which has been totally or partially
constructed or treated to impart a desired level of liquid
impermeability to selected regions that are adjacent or proximate
the absorbent core (42). Still further, the backsheet (38) may
optionally be composed of micro-porous "breathable" material that
permits vapors to escape from the absorbent core (42) while still
preventing liquid exudates from passing through the backsheet.
[0033] The absorbent core (42) may comprise a matrix of hydrophilic
fibers, such as a web of cellulosic fluff, mixed with particles of
a high-absorbency material commonly known as superabsorbent
material. In a particular version, the absorbent core (42)
comprises a mixture of superabsorbent hydrogel-forming particles
and wood pulp fluff. The wood pulp fluff may be exchanged with
synthetic polymeric, meltblown fibers or with a combination of
meltblown fibers and natural fibers. The superabsorbent particles
may be substantially homogeneously mixed with the hydrophilic
fibers or may be non-uniformly mixed.
[0034] The absorbent core (42) may have any of a number of shapes.
For example, the absorbent core (42) may be rectangular, I-shaped
or T-shaped. It is often considered as desirable for the absorbent
core (42) to be narrower in the crotch portion than the rear or
front region(s).
[0035] The high-absorbency material can be selected from natural,
synthetic and modified natural polymers and materials. The
high-absorbency materials can be inorganic materials, such as
silica gels, or organic compounds, such as crosslinked polymers.
The term "crosslinked" refers to any means for effectively
rendering normally water-soluble materials substantially water
insoluble, but swellable. Such means can comprise, for example,
physical entanglement, crystalline domains, covalent bonds, ionic
complexes and associations, hydrophilic associations, such as
hydrogen bonding, and hydrophobic associations or Van der Waals
forces.
[0036] Examples of synthetic,.polymeric, high-absorbency materials
include the alkali metal and ammonium salts of poly(acrylic acid)
and poly(methacrylic acid), poly(acrylamides), poly(vinyl ethers),
maleic anhydride copolymers with vinyl ethers and alpha-olefins,
poly(vinyl pyrolidone), poly(vinyl morpholinone), poly(vinyl
alcohol), and mixtures and copolymers thereof. Further polymers
suitable for use in the absorbent core include natural and modified
natural polymers, such as hydrolyzed acrylonitrile-grafted starch,
acrylic acid grafted starch, methyl cellulose, carboxymethyl
cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, and the natural gums, such as
alginates, xanthum gum, locust bean gum, and the like. Mixtures of
natural and wholly or partially synthetic absorbent polymers can
also be useful. Processes for preparing synthetic, absorbent
gelling polymers are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,076,663, issued
to Masuda et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 4,286,082, issued to
Tsubakimoto et al.
[0037] The high-absorbency material may be in a variety of
geometric forms. It is desired that the high-absorbency material be
in the form of discrete particles. However, the high-absorbency
material may also be in the form of fibers, flakes, rods, spheres,
needles, or the like. Often, the high-absorbency material is
present in the absorbent core (42) in an amount of from about 5 to
about 100 weight percent based on total weight of the absorbent
core.
[0038] As representatively illustrated in FIG. 1, the diaper (30)
may include a pair of containment flaps (57) that are configured to
provide a barrier to the lateral flow of body exudates. The
containment flaps (57) may be located along the longitudinally
extending side edges (46) of the diaper (30) adjacent the side
edges of the absorbent core (42). Each containment flap (57)
typically defines an unattached edge that is configured to maintain
an upright, perpendicular configuration in at least the crotch
region (36) of the diaper (30) to form a seal against the wearer's
body. The containment flaps (57) may extend longitudinally along
the entire length of the absorbent core (42) or may only extend
partially along the length of the absorbent core (42). When the
containment flaps (57) are shorter in length than the absorbent
core (42), the containment flaps (57) can be selectively positioned
anywhere along the side edges (46) of the diaper (30) in the crotch
region (36). The containment flaps (57) may extend along the entire
length of the absorbent core (42) to better contain the body
exudates.
[0039] The diaper (30) may further include elastics at the end
edges (48) and side edges (46) of the diaper (30) to further
prevent leakage of body exudates and support the absorbent core
(42). For example, the diaper (30) may include a pair of leg
elastics (50) that are connected to the side edges (46) of the
diaper (30) crotch region (36). The diaper (30) may also include a
pair of waist elastics (52) that are connected to the end edges
(48) of the diaper (30). The leg elastics (50) and waist elastics
(52) are generally adapted to fit about the legs and waist of a
wearer in use to maintain a positive, contacting relationship with
the wearer to effectively reduce or eliminate the leakage of body
exudates from the diaper (30).
[0040] The elastics may be adhered to the backsheet (38) in a
stretched position, or they may be attached to the backsheet (38)
while the backsheet (38) is pleated, such that elastic constrictive
forces are imparted to the backsheet (38). The leg elastics (50)
may also include such materials as polyurethane, synthetic and
natural rubber. The waist elastics (52) may be formed by elastic
strands attached to the backsheet (38) or they may be formed by
attaching separate pieces of stretchable materials to the waist
regions of the article.
[0041] The disposable absorbent articles can but need not
necessarily comprise fasteners (67) for securing the absorbent
article about the waist of the wearer. The illustrated versions of
the diaper (30) comprise such fasteners (67). In at least one
version, the fasteners (67) are situated in the rear region (34) of
the diaper (30), and are located inboard each longitudinal
extending side edge (46). The fasteners (67) may be configured to
encircle the hips of the wearer and engage the backsheet (38) of
the front region (32) of the diaper (30) for holding the diaper
(30) on the wearer. Suitable fasteners are well known to those of
skill in the art and can comprise adhesive tape tab fasteners, hook
and loop fasteners, mushroom fasteners, snaps, pin, belts and the
like, and combinations thereof. Desirably, the fasteners (67) are
releasably engageable directly with the garment-facing surface of
the backsheet (38). Desirably, the fasteners (67) comprise a
mechanical fastening system.
[0042] Referring primarily to FIG. 2, there is illustrated a
flexible packaging bag (70) having a polyhedral shape defining or
forming a polyhedral enclosure. Specifically, bag (70) has a
hexahedral shape that forms or defines a hexahedral enclosure. Bag
(70) is defined by a plurality of walls, specifically a pair of end
walls (72), a pair of side walls (74), a top wall (76), and a
bottom wall (78). Each of the walls has a periphery, such as
periphery (82) for an end wall (72). The walls (72), (74), (76),
(78) define an interior space (80) (FIG. 4) for containing a stack
(84) (FIG. 3) of articles, such as a plurality of diapers (30). In
particular embodiments, the articles may be compressed in the bag
(70). The term "compressed articles" or similar terminology will
mean that the stack of articles, such as diapers (30) in FIG. 3,
are compressed inwardly by a compression force at their front and
back surfaces or panels, such as front region (32) and rear region
(34), in a direction parallel to stack direction (86) (FIG. 3), so
as to decrease the length dimension (88) of the originally,
uncompressed articles. The compressed stack (84) also includes a
width dimension (90) and a height dimension (92). The term
"compression packed" or similar terminology describes the state or
condition of diapers (30) after they have been compressed and
inserted into bag (70). The term "expansion force" or similar
terminology refers to that generally equal force exerted by the
compressed stack (84) in a direction generally opposite and
parallel to the compression force and against primarily end walls
(72).
[0043] Bag (70) may be composed of a plurality of different
materials, or may be composed of a single material. The material
may be a polymer film which is sufficiently flexible to assume a
desired, generally hexahedral shape when bag (70) is substantially
filled with diapers (30). The material may be a nonwoven material.
In addition, the material should have sufficient strength to hold
and contain the diapers (30), or other articles, without breaking
and without excessive bulging or stretching of the bag material.
For example, the film material may be composed of a polyethylene
film or film laminate having a thickness of about 2.5 mils (about
0.0635 millimeters). Other examples include a LDPE (low density
polyethylene) film, a LDPE/LLDPE (linear low density polyethylene)
film laminate, a LDPE/MDPE (medium density polyethylene) film
laminate, a LDPE/HDPE (high density polyethylene) film laminate or
the like. Naturally, the dimensions of bag (70) will depend upon
the types of articles to be contained therein as well as the
desired or aesthetically preferred shape. A suitable bag, and its
method of construction, is illustrated and described in U.S. Pat.
No. 5,282,687, the contents of which are incorporated by reference
herein.
[0044] Bag (70) further includes an opener (112) for accessing the
interior space (80) (FIG. 4) for dispensing the diapers (30)
therefrom. The opener (112) may be a zipper, a removable tear
strip, or a zip lock type seal. The opener (112) may be any device
that is adapted to allow access to the interior space. The opener
(112) may be a frangible line (94) that is easily broken, as shown
in FIG. 2. A frangible line (94) can be disposed or manufactured at
any position or location on bag (70) that would permit dispensing
diapers (30) therefrom. As illustrated in FIG. 2, frangible line
(94) is partially located in one side wall (74), continues
underneath along bottom wall (78), and then upwardly along the
opposite side wall (74) about the same distance as in the other
side wall (74). This is also illustrated in FIG. 4 where frangible
line (94) has been torn in order to provide an opening (96) for
accessing and dispensing diapers (30). Frangible line (94) may, for
example, be provided by partially cutting or otherwise thinning
through the thickness of the bag material in a predetermined
pattern, providing a selected pattern of perforations along the
desired sections or walls of the bag, providing a desired pattern
of stress-fatigue weakening along a desired line of the bag, or the
like. As illustrated, frangible line (94) is provided by a line of
perforations in which there can be approximately 2-10 perforations
per lineal inch. The opener (112) may be located on a single wall
of the bag; alternatively it may be located on a plurality of
walls.
[0045] Alternatively yet, the opener (112) may be located on the an
edge of a single or a plurality of walls.
[0046] Referring now primarily to FIG. 3, each diaper (30) has been
folded such that the fasteners (67) are inwardly disposed between
front region (32) and rear region (34). As illustrated in FIG. 3,
each diaper (30) generally defines opposing side edges (98), a top
edge (100), a bottom edge (102), opposing face surfaces (104) (only
one of which is illustrated in FIG. 3), and a periphery (106). When
the diapers (30) are compression packed in bag (70), surfaces (104)
face along stack direction (86). Accordingly, the top edges (100)
(as viewed in FIG. 3) of diapers (30) contact bottom wall (78), the
bottom edges (102) of the diapers (30) contact the top wall (76) of
bag (70), the side edges (98) of the diapers (30) contact the bag
side walls (74), and the outermost face surface (104) of the end
diaper (30) contact end walls (72). Note that the bottom edge (102)
of a diaper (30) in FIG. 3 corresponds to the end edges (48) (FIG.
1).
[0047] With reference primarily to FIGS. 2 and 4, bag (70) is
opened by breaking frangible line (94) to gain access via opening
(96) to diapers (30). Typically, the separation of frangible line
(94) is initiated by breaking a portion thereof, and then
propagating the break or tear along frangible line (94) through
bottom wall (78) and those portions of side walls (74) into which
frangible line (94) is manufactured. By thus breaking frangible
line (94), the user can insert a finger or thumb through opening
(96) in order to gain access to diaper (30). Thereafter, the user
can grasp the top of a diaper (30) and pull it out of bag (70),
while the remaining diapers (30) are maintained within the confines
or interior space (80).
[0048] Referring primarily to FIG. 2, bag (70) may further include
a window (108) disposed or positioned within a portion of end wall
(72). Window (108) includes a window periphery (110) that has a
shape that is substantially similar to the periphery of end wall
(72). Window (108) at least substantially frames a component of the
diapers (30) contained within bag (70). A suitable bag, and its
method of construction, is illustrated and described in U.S. Pat.
No. 6,491,165, the contents of which are incorporated by reference
herein.
[0049] Depending upon the type of articles to be contained in bag
(70), and the components, such as graphics, of those articles, it
may be desirable to have a window in a different wall from end
walls (72). For example, should a stack of articles be packaged in
a different orientation in bag (70), then one of the side walls
(74), or the top wall (76) or the bottom wall (78), can have a
window to permit a component to be visually perceived
therethrough.
[0050] The life cycle of the bag (70) of diapers (30) contain
several unique phases. The first phase consists of manufacture and
shipping to a retailer. In this phase, a primary function of the
bag (70) is to contain and protect the diapers (30) from the
environment. Further, in this stage, any extra pieces located on
the exterior of the bag (70) may cause difficulties in shipping,
handling and stacking of the bag (70). It is desired for the bag to
have a minimal amount of these extra pieces on the exterior of the
bag (70). The second phase of the life cycle of the bag (70) of
diapers (30) consists of display on a retailer's shelf, purchase,
and transport to the user point of use. In this second phase, the
bag still contains and protects the diapers (30) but it may also be
desirous for the bag (70) to inform the user about the contents of
the bag (70). The third phase of the life cycle of the bag (70) of
diapers (30) consists of the opening and use of individual diapers
(30) one by one. This third phase, specifically the opening and
dispensing presents the user with unique challenges which the
present invention addresses.
[0051] Referring now to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A and 8B,
the status of opener (112) defines a first condition (114) and a
second condition (116). In the first condition (114) the bag (70)
contains the diapers (30) and a hanger (118). In the first
condition the diapers (30) and the hanger (118) are inaccessible.
For purposes of this invention, inaccessible refers to a condition
where there are no openings in the bag (70) large enough to permit
the removal and use of either the diapers (30) or the hanger (118).
In the second condition (116) the opener (112) has been activated
to form an opening (96) though which the diapers may be removed.
Further, in the second condition the hanger (118) also is
accessible. For purposes of this invention, accessible refers to a
condition where there are openings in the bag (70) large enough to
permit the removal and use of the diapers (30) or the hanger (118).
The hanger (118) may be used by the consumers in any number of
ways. The hanger (118) may be used to hang the bag (70) on a
changing table or from a hook, or any number of locations that may
be useful to the consumer. Instruction regarding the use of the bag
(70), opener (112) and hanger (118) may be provided on the exterior
of the bag (70) or any other suitable form.
[0052] The hanger (118) may take any number of forms. As shown in
FIGS. 5A and 5B, the hanger (118) may be an opening in one of the
walls formed by perforations. As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the
hanger (118) is an opening in the top wall (76) positioned such
that when the bag (70) is in the second condition (114) with the
diapers (30) accessible, the hanger (118) may then activated and be
used to hang the bag (70).
[0053] A second form that the hanger (118) may take is shown in
FIGS. 6A and 6B. As above, the bag (70) has a first condition (114)
(shown in FIG. 6A) and a second condition (116) (shown in FIG. 6B).
The hanger (118) is formed from portions of an end wall (72) and
side walls (74). Specifically, perforations in the end and side
walls (72, 74) may be torn to access the hanger (118) which then
comprises two ties. These ties may then be used to hang the bag
(70). This may be an economical way to provide a hanger (118) on a
bag (70).
[0054] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a third bag (70) with a hanger
(118). The hanger (118) comprises a tie which is located in the
interior space (80) of the bag (70). When the bag (70) is in the
first condition (114) the hanger (118) is inaccessible, however,
when the bag (70) is in the second condition (114), a portion of
the hanger (118) may be removed from the interior space (80) and be
used to hang the bag. The hanger (118) may comprise a portion of a
material which comprises one or more of the walls (72, 74, 76, 78)
or the hanger may comprise a piece or pieces of material connected,
either directly or indirectly, to an interior surface of the bag
(70).
[0055] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a fourth bag (70) with a hanger
(118). The hanger (118) comprise fastener which is located on an
inner surface of the bag (70). When the bag (70) is in the first
condition (114) the hanger (118) is inaccessible, however, when the
bag (70) is in the second condition (114), the hanger (118) is
exposed and may be used to fasten the bag (70) to hang it. The
hanger (118) as shown is a hook fastener which may be fastened to a
corresponding loop fastener. The hanger (118) may be any mechanical
fastener, including a snap, an adhesive patch, either with or
without a removable cover. The hanger (118) may be attached to the
inner surface of the bag (70) either directly or indirectly, in any
manner as known in the art.
[0056] The bag (70) may further comprise a closing element (120),
as shown in FIGS. 6B and 8B. The closing element (120) secures the
bag (70) in a third condition. The closing element (120) may be
used to close the bag (70) after it has been in the second
condition. The closing element (120) secures the bag (70) such that
the diapers are inaccessible with the closing element (120)
engaged. The closing element (120) and the hanger (118) may be
configured such that the hanger (118) is accessible in the third
condition (shown in FIG. 6B). Alternatively, the closing element
(120) and the hanger (118) may be configured such that the hanger
(118) is inaccessible in the third condition (shown in FIG.
8B).
[0057] The closing element (120) may take on a number of different
forms. The closing element (120) may be a tie, an adhesive, a
mechanical fastener or other suitable element. The closing element
may be different than the hanger (118), alternatively the closing
element (120) and the hanger (118) may be similar, such as both
being hook and loop type fasteners, both being snap fasteners, or
both being ties. Alternatively, the closing element (120) and the
hanger (118) may be identical.
[0058] While this invention has been described as having a
preferred embodiment, it will be understood that it is capable of
further modifications. It is therefore intended to cover any
variations, equivalents, uses, or adaptations of the invention
following the general principles thereof, and including such
departures from the present disclosure as come or may come within
known or customary practice in the art to which this invention
pertains and falls within the limits of the appended claims.
* * * * *