U.S. patent application number 11/231502 was filed with the patent office on 2007-03-22 for infestation resistant reclosable seal.
Invention is credited to Claude Alan Eads, Rainer M. Garger, Thomas P. O'Connor.
Application Number | 20070065051 11/231502 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37884200 |
Filed Date | 2007-03-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070065051 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Eads; Claude Alan ; et
al. |
March 22, 2007 |
Infestation resistant reclosable seal
Abstract
A container has a reclosable zipper seal. The zipper comprises a
pair of interlocking sections attached to respective portions of
the container. The interlocking sections are secured to portions of
the container by an adhesive. No sewing is used to secure the
interlocking sections to the sides of the container. The adhesive
may provide a significant resistance to permeation by organisms or
other contaminants. The adhesive sealing of the interlocking
sections to the container may thus provide a significant resistance
of the container to exogenous infestation. Alternatively, the
interlocking sections may comprise a plastic material such that
upon the interlocking sections being sewn to the container, the
container may be appreciably resistant to exogenous infestation.
Where a gusseted bag is used, portions of the gussets may be
adhesively sealed, such as through external application of an
adhesive or by applying heat to a heat-sealable outer ply of the
bag.
Inventors: |
Eads; Claude Alan;
(Maineville, OH) ; Garger; Rainer M.; (Weln,
AT) ; O'Connor; Thomas P.; (Shelbyville, IN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FROST BROWN TODD, LLC
2200 PNC CENTER
201 E. FIFTH STREET
CINCINNATI
OH
45202
US
|
Family ID: |
37884200 |
Appl. No.: |
11/231502 |
Filed: |
September 21, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
383/63 ; 383/109;
383/64 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 31/10 20130101;
B65D 33/2591 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
383/063 ;
383/064; 383/109 |
International
Class: |
B65D 33/16 20060101
B65D033/16; B65D 30/08 20060101 B65D030/08 |
Claims
1. A container system, comprising: (a) a container, comprising an
opening defined by a first side wall and a second side wall,
wherein the first side wall and the second side wall each have an
inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the container comprises
a paper material; (b) a zipper positioned at the container opening,
the zipper comprising: (i) a first interlocking section having an
inner surface, an outer surface, and one or more teeth adjacent the
inner surface, and (ii) a second interlocking section having an
inner surface, an outer surface, and one or more teeth adjacent the
inner surface, wherein the zipper is operable to selectively open
and close a seal of the container opening upon engagement between
the one or more teeth of the first interlocking section and the one
or more teeth of the second interlocking section, wherein the first
interlocking section is secured to the first side wall with an
adhesive, wherein the second interlocking section is secured to the
second side wall with an adhesive.
2. The container system of claim 1, wherein the outer surface of
the first side wall of the container is secured to the inner
surface of the first interlocking section, wherein the outer
surface of the second side wall of the container is secured to the
inner surface of the second interlocking section.
3. The container system of claim 1, wherein the first interlocking
section is not secured to the first side wall with sewing, wherein
the second interlocking section is not secured to the second side
wall with sewing.
4. The container system of claim 1, further comprising a slider
configured to engage and disengage the teeth of the first
interlocking section and the teeth of the second interlocking
section.
5. The container system of claim 1, wherein the first and second
interlocking sections each comprise a plastic material.
6. The container system of claim 1, wherein the container comprises
a bag.
7. The container system of claim 1, wherein the container comprises
multiple layers of material, wherein at least one of the layers
comprises a heat-sealable material.
8. The container system of claim 7, wherein the first and second
interlocking sections are each secured to a paper layer of the
container.
9. The container system of claim 7, wherein the outermost layer of
the container comprises a paper material.
10. The container system of claim 1, wherein the adhesive is heat
activated.
11. A container system, comprising: (a) a container, comprising an
opening defined by a first side wall and a second side wall,
wherein the first side wall and the second side wall each have an
inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the container comprises
a paper material; (b) a zipper secured to the container, the zipper
comprising: (i) a first interlocking section having an inner
surface, an outer surface, one or more teeth adjacent the inner
surface, and a flange region, and (ii) a second interlocking
section having an inner surface, an outer surface, one or more
teeth adjacent the inner surface, and a flange region, wherein the
one or more teeth of the first interlocking section are configured
to engage with the one or more teeth of the second interlocking
section; and (c) a securing means for securing the first
interlocking section to the first side wall and the second
interlocking section to the second side wall, wherein the securing
means is configured to prevent exogenous infestation of the
container between the interlocking sections and the respective side
walls.
12. The container system of claim 11, wherein the outer surface of
the first side wall of the container is secured to the inner
surface of the first interlocking section, wherein the outer
surface of the second side wall of the container is secured to the
inner surface of the second interlocking section.
13. The container system of claim 11, wherein the container
comprises a bag.
14. A method of making a container system, comprising: (a)
providing a bag, wherein the bag comprises an opening defined by a
first side wall and a second side wall, wherein the bag further
comprises a paper material; (b) providing a first interlocking
section and a second interlocking section, wherein the first
interlocking section has an inner surface, an outer surface, and
one or more teeth adjacent the inner surface, wherein the second
interlocking section has an inner surface, an outer surface, and
one or more teeth adjacent the inner surface; (c) securing the
first interlocking section to the first side wall; (d) securing the
second interlocking section to the second side wall; and (e)
prohibiting exogenous infestation of the bag through permeation
between the interlocking sections and the respective side
walls.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the result of prohibiting
exogenous infestation of the bag is obtained by performing a step
of applying an adhesive between the interlocking sections and
respective side walls.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the adhesive is used to secure
the interlocking sections to the respective side walls.
17. A container system, comprising: (a) a container, comprising an
opening defined by a first side wall and a second side wall,
wherein the first side wall and the second side wall each have an
inner surface and an outer surface; (b) a zipper positioned at the
container opening, the zipper comprising: (i) a first interlocking
section having an inner surface, an outer surface, and one or more
teeth adjacent the inner surface, and (ii) a second interlocking
section having an inner surface, an outer surface, and one or more
teeth adjacent the inner surface, wherein the zipper is operable to
selectively open and close a seal of the container opening upon
engagement between the one or more teeth of the first interlocking
section and the one or more teeth of the second interlocking
section, wherein the first interlocking section is secured to the
first side wall with sewing, wherein the second interlocking
section is secured to the second side wall with sewing, wherein the
zipper comprises a plastic material.
18. The container system of claim 17, wherein the container has a
heat-sealable ply, wherein heat is applied to at least a portion of
the heat-sealable ply of the container.
19. The container system of claim 17, further comprising: (a)
adding an adhesive between the first interlocking section and the
first side wall; and (b) adding an adhesive between the second
interlocking section and the second side wall.
20. The container system of claim 17, wherein the container
comprises a gusseted bag, the method further comprising sealing
portions of the gussets of the bag.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Reclosable seals are used in a variety of applications, one
example being for sealing the opening of a bag. A variety of
reclosable seals currently exist, but no one prior to the inventors
has created or used the invention described in the appended
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0002] While the specification concludes with claims that
particularly point out and distinctly claim the invention, it is
believed the present invention will be better understood from the
following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, in which like reference numerals identify the same
elements. The drawings and detailed description which follow are
intended to be merely illustrative and are not intended to limit
the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.
[0003] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a bag having a
reclosable seal.
[0004] FIG. 2 depicts a transverse cross-sectional view of a tamper
evident reclosable seal.
[0005] FIG. 3 depicts perspective view of a bag having an
alternative tamper evident reclosable seal.
[0006] FIG. 4 depicts a transverse cross-sectional view of an
alternative tamper evident reclosable seal.
[0007] FIG. 5 depicts a transverse cross-sectional view of an
alternative tamper evident reclosable seal.
[0008] FIG. 6 depicts a transverse cross-sectional view of the
tamper evident reclosable seal of FIG. 5 after subsequent
processing.
[0009] FIG. 7 depicts a transverse cross-sectional view of an
alternative tamper evident reclosable seal.
[0010] FIG. 8 depicts a partial view of a slider and zipper
interlocking sections having a tamper evidence device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0011] The following description should not be used to limit the
scope of the present invention. Other examples, features, aspects,
embodiments, and advantages of the invention will become apparent
to those skilled in the art from the following description, which
includes by way of illustration, one of the best modes contemplated
for carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention
is capable of other different and obvious aspects, all without
departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and
descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not
restrictive. It should therefore be understood that the inventors
contemplate a variety of embodiments that are not explicitly
disclosed herein.
[0012] FIG. 1 depicts a bag (30) having a reclosable seal in the
form of a zipper (10). Bag (30) has a right side (32) and a left
side (34). Similarly, zipper (10) has a right interlocking section
(12) and a left interlocking section (14). Right interlocking
section (12) of zipper (10) is secured to right side (32) of bag
(30), while left interlocking section (14) of zipper (10) is
secured to left side (34) of bag (30). In one embodiment,
interlocking sections (12, 14) comprise a pair of profiles. Other
suitable interlocking sections (12, 14) will be apparent to those
of ordinary skill in the art, including but not limited to zippers
with metal teeth.
[0013] As used herein, terms such as "right," "left," "above,"
"below," and the like are used simply to refer to the relative
positioning of elements in the drawings, and are not intended to be
limiting in any way. While the present example includes a bag (30),
it will be appreciated that zipper (10) or any other reclosable
seal may be used on any other type of container or receptacle,
including but not limited to envelopes, pouches, sacks, and the
like. As used herein, the terms "container" and "receptacle" shall
be read to include anything configured to hold and contain an
object or materials. To the extent that the container is a bag, it
will be appreciated that any type of bag may be used, including but
not limited to gusseted, non-gusseted, paper, plastic,
multi-laminate, woven polypropylene bags, and the like. In one
embodiment, the container comprises a bag (30) having a plurality
of layers, with at least one of the layers being a paper material,
and at least one other layer (e.g., the outer layer) being a
heat-sealable material. Other suitable containers, materials, and
configurations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the
art.
[0014] It will be appreciated that interlocking sections (12, 14)
of zipper (10) may be secured to bag (30) in any suitable fashion.
In one embodiment, interlocking sections (12, 14) are secured to
bag (30) by a pre-applied, heat-activated adhesive. Such adhesive
may be activated by hot air, by hot rolling, or by any other
suitable method. In another embodiment, interlocking sections (12,
14) are secured to bag (30) by an epoxy bond. In this embodiment, a
first compound is applied to each interlocking section (12, 14) and
a second compound is applied to the portions of bag (30) that will
ultimately come into contact with interlocking sections (12, 14).
The first and second compounds are configured such that, when
joined together, the compounds form a physical bond. Accordingly, a
bond is formed when interlocking sections (12, 14) are placed in
contact with the aforementioned portions of bag (30), thereby
securing interlocking sections (12, 14) to bag (30). Alternatively,
any other technique may be used to secure interlocking sections
(12, 14) to bag (30), including but not limited to heat-sealing,
stitching, adhesives, press-sealing, cold welding, pressure
bonding, double-sided tape. Where interlocking sections (12, 14)
are stitched to bag (30), it will be appreciated that such
stitching may include, by way of example only, sewing or ultrasonic
stitching. Still other suitable techniques for securing
interlocking sections (12, 14) to bag (30) will be apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art.
[0015] It will be appreciated that the potential for infestation of
bag (30) by insects, larvae, or other undesirable organisms or
materials is an issue that may need to be addressed. In addition to
the prospect of the mere presence of organisms and other
contaminants in bag (30) being undesirable, such organisms or other
contaminants may adversely affect the other contents of bag (30)
(e.g., by eating the contents of bag (30)) or the bag (30) itself
(e.g., by boring through bag (30)). Infestation may arise within
bag (30) by organisms or contaminants that are introduced into bag
(30), such as during filling ("endogenous infestation"). In
addition, or alternatively, infestation may arise when organisms or
contaminants penetrate bag (30), the interface between bag (30) and
interlocking sections (12, 14), or elsewhere ("exogenous
infestation"). For instance, with some bags (30) where interlocking
sections (12, 14) are secured to bag (30) by mere sewing, it may be
possible for organisms such as larvae to infest bag (30) by
entering through the interface between interlocking sections (12,
14) and bag (30). That is, the sewing of interlocking sections (12,
14) to bag (30) may provide an insufficient seal at the interface
of interlocking sections (12, 14) and bag (30), such that the
interface provides undesirable permeability for exogenous
infestation. Other features and components of bag (30), including
features relating to interlocking sections (12, 14), which may
provide permeability for exogenous infestation will be apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art.
[0016] In one embodiment, interlocking sections (12, 14) are
secured to bag (30) with an adhesive to significantly reduce the
likelihood of, if not prohibit, exogenous infestation at the
interface between interlocking sections (12, 14) and bag (30). In
addition, an adhesive is used to seal the portions of gussets of
bag (30) that are proximate to interlocking sections (12, 14). In
this embodiment, no sewing is used to secure interlocking sections
(12, 14) to bag (30). For this embodiment, any type of adhesive may
be used, including but not limited to an epoxy, a heat activated
adhesive (e.g., as a heat sealable ply on bag (30)), a pressure
sensitive adhesive, a liquid adhesive, or any other type of
adhesive. It will be appreciated that the use of such adhesive,
particularly where no sewing is used to secure interlocking
sections (12, 14) to bag (30), may greatly reduce, if not eliminate
altogether, the likelihood of exogenous infestation via the
interface between interlocking sections (12, 14) and bag (30).
[0017] In another embodiment, interlocking sections (12, 14)
comprise a plastic material, and are secured to bag (30) through
sewing. For instance, each interlocking section (12, 14) may be
sewn individually to bag (30). Alternatively, interlocking sections
(12, 14) may both be sewn to bag simultaneously (e.g., with the
same thread). Other ways of sewing interlocking sections (12, 14)
to bag (30) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.
It will be appreciated that, in this embodiment, the resilience of
the plastic material surrounding the sewn stitching thread may
provide appreciable exogenous infestation resistance, such as by
creating a relatively snug fit of interlocking sections (12, 14)
about the sewn thread. In other words, the plastic material of
interlocking sections (12, 14) may provide better exogenous
infestation resistance than a bag (30) where interlocking sections
are made of a cloth or paper material. Of course, were interlocking
sections (12, 14) are sewn or otherwise stitched or secured to bag,
an additional adhesive may be applied between each interlocking
section (12, 14) and the respective adjacent portions of bag (30).
It will also be appreciated that, as in any other embodiment
described herein, an adhesive may be used to seal the portions of
the gussets of bag (30) that are proximate to interlocking sections
(12, 14). For instance, and without limitation, an adhesive may be
applied to the outside of the gussets to provide this seal.
Alternatively, where bag (30) comprises a plurality of layers, with
the outer layer being heat-sealable, heat may be applied to gussets
to provide the seal. It will be appreciated that gusset portions
may be sealed in a variety of alternative ways. It will also be
appreciated that resistance to exogenous infestation may be
provided in a variety of alternative ways, and to a variety of
degrees.
[0018] In the present example, interlocking sections (12, 14)
comprise an extruded plastic material. Of course, interlocking
sections (12, 14) may be formed of any other suitable material, and
by any other suitable process. Respective ends (18, 20) of
interlocking sections (12, 14) may be secured together by any
suitable technique, including but not limited to a hot knife, hot
glue, other adhesives, heat sealing, stitching, cold welding,
pressure bonding, hooks, tape, clamps, rivets, or any other
suitable technique or device.
[0019] It will be appreciated that zipper (10) is operable to seal
bag (30). In the present example, such sealing occurs upon closure
of zipper (10) by engagement of right interlocking section (12)
with left interlocking section (14). As used herein, the term
"seal" and its variants shall be read to generally imply the
prevention of at least a substantial portion material (e.g.,
solids, gases, and/or liquids) from escaping or entering the
container. However, such a "seal" need not per se be perfectly "air
tight" or "water tight" as those phrases are commonly used and
understood.
[0020] As shown in FIG. 2, right interlocking section (12) and left
interlocking section (14) each have a pair of complimentary teeth
(22) extending the length of the respective interlocking sections
(12, 14). Of course, each interlocking section (12, 14) could have
a single tooth (12), rather than a plurality of teeth (22). In the
present example, closure of zipper (10) results from engagement of
teeth (22), thereby effecting a seal of bag (30). In left
interlocking section (14), a hinge (24) is located adjacent teeth
(22). It will be appreciated that hinge (24) may prevent
inadvertent disengagement of teeth (22), such as by outward
separation of sides (32, 34) of bag (30) and/or interlocking
sections (12, 14). Of course, right interlocking section (12) may
include a hinge (24) in addition to or as an alternative to left
interlocking section (14) having hinge. Alternatively, any suitable
alternative to hinge (24) may be used, including but not limited to
no hinge (24) at all. Each interlocking section (12, 14) of the
present example further comprises a flange region (11), which is
adjacent teeth (22).
[0021] Engagement or disengagement of interlocking sections (12,
14) at teeth (22) may be effected or otherwise facilitated by a
slider (16), which is shown in FIG. 1. Slider (16) is configured to
slide longitudinally along zipper (10) to bring interlocking
sections (12, 14) together into engagement or force interlocking
sections (12, 14) apart for disengagement, depending upon which
direction slider (16) is slid. Sliders (16) are well known in the
art, and any type of slider (16) may be used. In one embodiment,
slider (16) comprises a glider. In the present example, each
interlocking section (12, 14) has a guide (13), with which slider
(16) is engaged. Of course, slider (16) is optional, and any
suitable alternative to slider (16) may be used, including but not
limited to no slider (16) at all.
[0022] As is also shown in FIG. 2, the outer surface of the right
side (32) of bag (30) is secured to the inner surface of right
interlocking section (12) in flange region (11); while the outer
surface of left side (34) of bag (30) is secured to the inner
surface of left interlocking section (14) in flange region (11). In
another embodiment, sides (32, 34) of bag (30) are secured to the
outer surfaces of respective interlocking sections (12, 14). Of
course, sides (32, 34) may be secured to interlocking sections (12,
14) in any other configuration. In yet another embodiment, right
side (32) of bag (30) and right interlocking section (12) are a
homogenous continuum of material (e.g., a single piece); and left
side (34) of bag (30) and left interlocking section (14) are a
homogenous continuum of material. Still other suitable relative
configurations of sides (32, 34) of bag (30) and interlocking
sections (12, 14) of zipper (10) will be apparent to those of
ordinary skill in the art.
[0023] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that it
may be desirable to provide some kind of assurance or indication as
to whether a zipper (10) has been previously opened. In other
words, it may be desirable to provide a device that is configured
to show whether a zipper (10) and/or bag (30) has been tampered
with. As used herein, the term "tamper evidence device," including
its variants, shall be read to include any feature, technique,
and/or structure that is configured to provide evidence or
indication that a bag (30) has been opened or otherwise tampered
with. As used herein, the term "tamper" and its variants shall be
read to include, but need not be limited to, an act of opening a
bag (30) substantially or completely and/or gaining substantial or
full access to its contents. Various exemplary devices for
providing tamper evidence are shown in FIGS. 2-8. In these
examples, the various tamper evidence devices include some type of
seal that must be breached when the bag (30) is first opened
completely (e.g., the first time complete access to the contents of
bag (30) is gained). It will be appreciated, however, that the
devices described hereafter are merely exemplary, and that tamper
evidence may be provided by a variety of alternative devices. It
will also be appreciated that the following examples and/or
alternatives thereof may be used in isolation or in combination
with one another. In addition, while tamper devices disclosed
herein may provide tamper evidence, such devices may also provide
other functionality and benefits not explicitly discussed
herein.
[0024] In FIG. 2, a membrane (26) is positioned adjacent each
interlocking section (12, 14). In the present example, membrane
(26) comprises a strip of a plastic material. Alternatively,
membrane (26) may comprise any other material or combination of
materials, including but not limited to fabric, paper, foil, metal,
and the like. In one embodiment, membrane (26) comprises a
substantially transparent material, while each interlocking section
(12, 14) comprises a substantially opaque material. Of course,
membrane (26), right interlocking section (12), and/or left
interlocking section (14) may have any other property, including
but not limited to transparency, translucency, and/or opaqueness,
color variations, including combinations thereof. In the present
example, the wall thickness of membrane (26) is thinner than the
wall thickness of interlocking sections (12, 14). Of course,
membrane (26) may alternatively be the same thickness as
interlocking sections (12, 14) or thicker than interlocking
sections (12, 14). Membrane (26) may be secured to interlocking
sections (12, 14) or walls (32, 34) via any suitable technique,
including but not limited to heat-sealing, stitching, adhesives,
press-sealing, cold welding, pressure bonding, double-sided tape,
and the like. In another embodiment, membrane (26) is extruded with
interlocking sections (12, 14), such that membrane (26) and
interlocking sections (12, 14) comprise a homogenous continuum of
material. In yet another embodiment, instead of being secured to
interlocking sections (12, 14), membrane (26) is secured to sides
(32, 34) of bag (30). In still another embodiment, membrane (26) is
secured to interlocking sections (12, 14), and sides (32, 34) are
secured to membrane (26). Other suitable configurations will be
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.
[0025] Membrane (26) of the present example is configured such
that, when bag (30) is first opened, membrane (26) must be broken,
torn, or otherwise breached in order to reach the contents of bag
(30). Initial breach of membrane (26) may be facilitated by
providing perforation (28) or other weakened feature in membrane
(26). In one embodiment, membrane (26) includes a central,
longitudinal perforation (28) along its length. In another
embodiment, membrane (26) includes a longitudinal perforation along
its junction each interlocking section (12, 14). In still another
embodiment, membrane (26) includes a longitudinal perforation along
its junction with side (32 and/or 34) of bag (30). In yet another
embodiment, a string, tab, or the like may be pulled to rip
membrane (26). Still other ways of facilitating breach of membrane
(26) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.
[0026] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3, interlocking sections
(12, 14) include a plurality of intermittent spot seals (40). Spot
seals (40) join right interlocking section (12) with left
interlocking section (14). Spot seals (40) may be provided by any
suitable technique, including but not limited to heat-sealing,
ultrasonic stitching, adhesives, press-sealing, cold welding,
pressure bonding, double-sided tape, and the like. As shown, spot
seals (40) are positioned below teeth (22) (i.e. between teeth (22)
and bag (30)). However, it will be appreciated that spot seals (40)
may be positioned above teeth (22) ("external") in addition to or
as an alternative to being positioned below teeth (22)
("internal"). Similarly, spot seals (40) may be provided in bag
(30). In the present example, when bag (30) is first opened, spot
seals (40) must be breached in order to gain full access to the
contents of bag (30). It will be appreciated that such breach may
be accomplished simply by pulling interlocking sections (12, 14)
apart with sufficient force to break spot seals (40). In one
embodiment, the spot seals (40) break without compromising the wall
integrity of interlocking sections (12, 14). Of course, spot seals
(40) need not comprise "spots" per se, and may comprise any
suitable pattern, including but not limited to a continuous,
longitudinal weld line along the length of interlocking sections
(12, 14) and/or sides (32, 34) of bag (30).
[0027] In addition to or as an alternative to having interlocking
sections (12, 14) comprising one or more tamper evidence devices,
bag (30) may comprise a tamper evidence device. One such device is
shown in FIG. 4, which shows bag (30) having a plurality of
intermittent seals (50). In this example, seal (50) joins the inner
wall of right side (32) of bag (30) with the inner wall of right
side (34) of bag (30). In the present example, the inner walls of
right side (32) and left side (34) comprise a plastic material, and
seal (50) is provided by heating the plastic material. In another
embodiment, seal (50) is provided by an adhesive, such as a glue.
It will be appreciated that seal (50) may extend substantially the
length of sides (32, 34). In yet another embodiment, seal (50)
comprises a plurality of discrete spot seals (40). Thus, seal (50)
may be considered a variation of spot seal (40), but the same is
formed in bag (30) instead of the interlocking sections (12, 14).
Still other ways of providing seal (50) will be apparent to those
of ordinary skill in the art.
[0028] Seal (50) may be provided along at least a substantial
portion of the length of bag (30), as a continuous line, as a
pattern, as a broken line, or in any other suitable configuration.
It will also be appreciated that, where sides (32, 34) of bag
comprise a plurality of layers, seal (50) may join the innermost
layers only, or the innermost layers in addition to other layers of
the plurality. As with membrane (26) and spot seals (40) in
interlocking sections (12, 14), seal (50) may be breached the first
time full access to contents of bag (30) is gained by pulling
interlocking sections (12, 14) and/or sides (32, 34) of bag (30)
apart with sufficient force. One advantage of seal (50) may arise
during the filling process. Bags (30) are often filled from the
bottom after interlocking sections (12, 14) are affixed to the bag
(30). The process of filling can introduce significant loads and
could compromise a zipper (10) seal if the load is introduced
directly. Intermediary seals (50) may absorb the filling load
instead of zipper (10). While a few seals (50) may break, the rest
of the seals (50) may remain intact. Of course, seals (50) may be
formed after a bag (30) is filled.
[0029] Yet another embodiment of a tamper evidence device is shown
in FIGS. 5 and 6. In this embodiment, prior to being secured to bag
(30), flange regions (11) at the bottom of each interlocking
section (12, 14) are joined together along the length of
interlocking sections (12, 14), resulting in a tack (60) being
provided at the bottom of a "V"-like configuration. Tack (60) may
be effected by any suitable technique, including but not limited to
heat sealing, spot welding, stitching (e.g., sewing, ultrasonic
stitching, and the like), adhesives, or any other technique. When
tack (60) has been provided, interlocking sections (12, 14) are
then folded as shown in FIG. 6, such that tack (60) is moved
upward, resulting flange regions (11) forming a "W"-like
configuration. In this "W"-like configuration, upturned portion
(62) of right interlocking section (12) is adjacent tack (60), as
is upturned portion (64) of left interlocking section (14).
Upturned portion (62) defines right valley (66) with the remainder
of right interlocking section (12); while upturned portion (64)
defines left valley (68) with the remainder of left interlocking
section (14). In the present example, sides (32, 34) of bag are
secured to upturned portions (62, 64) of interlocking sections (12,
14). Such securing may be accomplished by any of the aforementioned
techniques, or any alternative technique. Of course, sides (32, 34)
may be alternatively secured to the remainder of interlocking
sections (12, 14) (e.g., to the outside of interlocking sections
(12, 14)). In any event, tack (60) and/or upturned portions (62,
64) of the present example must be breached upon initial access to
contents of bag (30), such that tack (60) and/or upturned portions
(62, 64) provide a tamper evidence device. It will be appreciated
that tack (60) and/or any part(s) of upturned portions (62, 64) may
be perforated or otherwise weakened to facilitate such breach. It
will also be appreciated that an adhesive, such as glue by way of
example only, may be applied in valleys (66, 68). Where an adhesive
is applied in valleys (66, 68), upturned portions (62, 64) may be
adhered to respective, adjacent interlocking section (12, 14)
walls. Still other suitable configurations for an embodiment having
tack (60) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the
art.
[0030] Alternatively, interlocking sections (12, 14) may be
extruded as a single piece, either in the "V"-like configuration
shown in FIG. 5, in the "W"-like configuration shown in FIG. 6, or
in any other configuration. By way of example only, where
interlocking sections (12, 14) are extruded as a single piece, the
unified interlocking sections (12, 14) may be joined to bag (30) in
a manner similar to that shown in FIG. 6. In the region analogous
to that where tack (60) would be if interlocking sections (12, 14)
were not extruded as a single piece, a perforation or other
weakening feature may be present to facilitate separation of
interlocking sections (12, 14). Of course, any other techniques,
features, and configurations may be used.
[0031] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 7, a tamper evidence
device comprises a drape (70). Drape (70) is positioned externally
over the tops of interlocking sections (12, 14). Alternatively,
drape (70) may be positioned externally over slider (16) only.
Drape (70) may longitudinally extend along the entire length of
interlocking sections (12, 14), or one or more portions thereof.
Drape (70) may longitudinally terminate adjacent to or proximate to
slider (16), or may cover slider (16). Drape (70) may extend
downwardly such that it terminates adjacent to interlocking
sections (12, 14), such that it terminates adjacent to sides (32,
34) of bag (30), or combinations thereof. Drape (70) may be secured
to interlocking sections (12, 14) and/or sides (32, 34) by any of
the aforementioned securing techniques or any alternative
techniques. Other suitable configurations for drape (70) will be
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. By way of example
only, drape (70) may comprise tape, film, paper, combinations
thereof, or any other suitable material(s). In the present example,
drape (70) must be breached on order to initially disengage teeth
(22). Such breach may be facilitated by one or more perforated
regions in drape (70), by a string or tab that may be pulled to rip
the drape (70), or by any other suitable structure or
technique.
[0032] In addition to or as an alternative to having interlocking
sections (12, 14) and/or bag (30) comprise one or more tamper
evidence devices, slider (16) may comprise a tamper evidence
device. Such slider (16) devices may provide an initial resistance
to movement of slider (16). As used herein, particularly when
referring to slider (16), the phrase "initial resistance" shall be
understood to include a resistance encountered when slider (16) is
slid for the first time. Such initial resistance will be greater
than the resistance encountered during subsequent movement of
slider (16). In other words, an initial resistance may provide an
individual with tactile feedback indicating whether the slider (16)
has been initially moved. The amount of initial resistance may be
great enough to prevent movement of slider (16) during general
handling of the container, but small enough to be overcome without
causing substantial damage to slider (16), interlocking sections
(12, 14), and/or the container. In certain embodiments, a tamper
evidence device may provide a relatively high resistance to initial
movement of slider (16) (e.g., relative to resistance encountered
during subsequent movement of slider (16)), while not substantially
affecting subsequent movement of slider (16).
[0033] FIG. 8 depicts slider (16) having a transverse opening (80)
formed therethrough. Opening (80) is also formed through
interlocking sections (12, 14). In one embodiment, opening (80) is
formed by the insertion of a hot needle-like structure through
slider (16) and adjacent portions of interlocking sections (12, 14)
after slider (16) has been mounted to interlocking sections (12,
14). In this embodiment, material adjacent opening (80) is slightly
melted, resulting in slight deformation of the interlocking
sections (12, 14) adjacent to opening (80). It will be appreciated
that such melting and deformation may provide an initial resistance
to movement of slider (16). In other words, the melting and
deformation of material may provide a seal within opening (80), and
the breaking of such a seal will be required to move slider (16)
for the first time. The breaking of the seal will provide the
initial resistance, thereby indicating that slider (16) is being
moved for the first time. In the present example, subsequent
movement of slider (16) will not be substantially affected by
opening (80) or the melting/deformation resulting from the
formation of opening (80).
[0034] In another embodiment, similar melting/deformation is
obtained by a the use of a laser to form opening (80).
Alternatively, any other source of focusable heat energy may be
used to form opening (80) with melting-type deformation.
[0035] In another embodiment, opening (80) is formed by a member
having a hook-like structure at its end being inserted through
slider (16) and pulled back through opening (80). Accordingly, the
hook-like structure will pass through adjacent portions of
interlocking sections (12, 14) as well. It will be appreciated
that, during withdrawal of the hook-like structure, the hook-like
structure will pull material back through opening (80), which will
result in deformation of the material. The presence of this
deformed material within opening (80) will provide a seal within
opening (80) similar to the seal provided by insertion of a hot
needle-like structure through slider (16). Accordingly, the
breaking of the seal will provide the above-described initial
resistance, thereby indicating that slider (16) is being moved for
the first time. Subsequent movement of slider (16) will not be
substantially affected by opening (80) or the pull-through
deformation resulting from the formation of opening (80). While a
hook-like structure has been described for obtaining the
pull-trough deformation, it will be appreciated that any other
structure or technique may be used to effect pull-through and/or
push-through deformation.
[0036] In yet another embodiment of the slider depicted in FIG. 8,
a member is inserted into opening (80) to provide the initial
resistance. In one embodiment, the inserted member is breakable,
such that the inserted member is broken when slider (16) is first
slid to disengage teeth (22). In this embodiment, this breaking
will provide the initial resistance, while the member will not
substantially affect subsequent movement of slider. In another
embodiment, the inserted member is removable, such that the
inserted member must be removed before slider (16) may be moved. In
this embodiment, the inserted member and/or slider (16) may be
configured such that once the inserted member is removed, it cannot
be re-inserted. Other features and variations of an inserted member
and/or opening (80) to provide a tamper evidence device will be
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.
[0037] In still another embodiment, an adhesive is placed on slider
(16) and/or on interlocking sections (12, 14) near slider (16). In
this embodiment, the adhesive provides the initial resistance to
movement of slider (16). The properties of the adhesive are such
that, when slider (16) is moved with sufficient force to break the
seal or bond provided by the adhesive, damage to slider (16) and/or
interlocking sections (12, 14) will not result. For instance, the
adhesive may comprise a rubbery glue-like material. Other suitable
adhesives for this embodiment and variations thereof will be
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.
[0038] In another embodiment, initial resistance to movement of
slider (16) is provided by sealing at least a portion of teeth (22)
together. For instance, a longitudinal membrane may be used to join
the tops of interlocking sections (12, 14) in the vertical region
between teeth (22) and slider (16). This membrane and slider (16)
may be configured such that movement of slider (16) is required to
break the membrane. Before and during this breaking movement of
slider (16), however, the membrane provides resistance to movement
of slider. In the present example, the membrane may be
longitudinally perforated or otherwise weakened to facilitate
breaking of the membrane by slider (16). Alternatively, an adhesive
may be used to join interlocking sections (12, 14) together in the
region between the teeth (22) slider (16). Such an adhesive may
provide initial resistance, yet have no significant effect on
performance of slider (16) and/or zipper (10) during subsequent
use. Still other membrane-slider or adhesive features, variations,
and combinations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the
art.
[0039] In still another embodiment, opening (80) is formed through
interlocking sections (12, 14) proximate to slider (16), but not
through slider (16). Such an opening (80) may be formed by any
suitable technique, including but not limited to insertion of a hot
needle-like structure, insertion of a hook-like structure, or any
other technique. It will be appreciated that such an opening (80)
formed through interlocking sections (12, 14) may provide features
and advantages similar to those provided by having a similar
opening (80) formed through slider (16). Of course, there may be
additional advantages, which will be apparent to those of ordinary
skill in the art.
[0040] While the foregoing tamper evidence devices have been
described as providing a way in which tampering may be detected, it
will be appreciated that such devices may provide other uses as
well. By way of example only, it will be appreciated that during
the normal course of handling of a given container, for instance
from the time it is filled to the time it reaches a shelf in a
retail setting, the handling may urge slider (16) to move,
interlocking sections (12, 14) to separate, or lead to other
potentially undesirable results. The foregoing tamper evidence
devices may provide resistance to those and other results. For
instance, and without limitation, an opening (80) formed through
slider (16) and/or interlocking sections (12, 14) may prevent
inadvertent movement of slider (16) during handling.
[0041] Of course, the foregoing examples are merely illustrative,
and are not intended to be limiting in any way.
[0042] Having shown and described various embodiments and concepts
of the invention, further adaptations of the methods and systems
described herein can be accomplished by appropriate modifications
by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the
scope of the invention. Several of such potential alternatives,
modifications, and variations have been mentioned, and others will
be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing
teachings. Accordingly, the invention is intended to embrace all
such alternatives, modifications and variations as may fall within
the spirit and scope of the appended claims and is understood not
to be limited to the details of structure and operation shown and
described in the specification and drawings.
* * * * *