U.S. patent application number 11/442769 was filed with the patent office on 2007-05-31 for packaging incorporating sensory elements.
This patent application is currently assigned to The Procter & Gamble Company. Invention is credited to Sarah Louise Thielman, Jennifer Lea Westermeyer.
Application Number | 20070119742 11/442769 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38086380 |
Filed Date | 2007-05-31 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070119742 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Thielman; Sarah Louise ; et
al. |
May 31, 2007 |
Packaging incorporating sensory elements
Abstract
A package includes a body, at least one disposable absorbent
article within the and a first sensory element. The body has an
opening therein, and the first element communicates a first
performance attribute of the package.
Inventors: |
Thielman; Sarah Louise;
(Cincinnati, OH) ; Westermeyer; Jennifer Lea;
(Cincinnati, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY;INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DIVISION
WINTON HILL BUSINESS CENTER - BOX 161
6110 CENTER HILL AVENUE
CINCINNATI
OH
45224
US
|
Assignee: |
The Procter & Gamble
Company
Cincinnati
OH
|
Family ID: |
38086380 |
Appl. No.: |
11/442769 |
Filed: |
May 30, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/494 ;
206/459.1; 206/459.5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 75/5838 20130101;
B65D 2571/00919 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/494 ;
206/459.5; 206/459.1 |
International
Class: |
B65D 73/00 20060101
B65D073/00; B65D 85/00 20060101 B65D085/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 28, 2005 |
EP |
000437413 |
Nov 28, 2005 |
EP |
000437454 |
Nov 28, 2005 |
EP |
000437462-0001 |
Nov 28, 2005 |
EP |
000437462-0002 |
Nov 28, 2005 |
EP |
000437462-0003 |
Nov 28, 2005 |
EP |
000437462-0004 |
Nov 28, 2005 |
EP |
000437462-0005 |
Claims
1. A package containing a plurality disposable absorbent articles,
the package comprising: a body having an opening therein; a first
sensory element disposed on the package, wherein the first sensory
element communicates a first performance attribute of the
package.
2. The package of claim 1 wherein the first sensory element
comprises a graphic.
3. The package of claim 1 further comprising a cover, wherein the
cover comprises an attachment region and a liftable region, wherein
the attachment region is joined to the body such that in the closed
position, the opening is covered by the cover, and wherein the
first sensory element is disposed subjacent to the cover in the
closed position, and wherein the cover is transparent.
4. The package of claim 1 further comprising a grasping sensory
element.
5. The package of claim 4 wherein the grasping sensory element
comprises a graphic.
6. The package of claim 4 wherein the grasping sensory element
communicates a grasping area to a consumer by visual perception and
tactile perception.
7. The package of claim 3 further comprising a cover sensory
element.
8. The package of claim 3 further comprising a grasping sensory
element.
9. The package of claim 1 wherein the first sensory element
communicates a characteristic and the performance attribute of the
package.
10. The package of claim 1 further comprising a second sensory
element, wherein the second sensory element communicates a
characteristic of the package.
11. The package of claim 10 wherein the second sensory element
communicates a second performance characteristic of the
package.
12. A flexible package containing a plurality of wipes, the
flexible packaging comprising: a body; a cover having an attachment
region and a liftable region, wherein the attachment region of the
resealable cover is joined to the body; a grasping sensory element
disposed on a portion of the liftable region of the cover, wherein
the grasping sensory element communicates a grasping area of the
liftable region of the cover; a first sensory element disposed on
the cover, wherein the first sensory element communicates a first
performance attribute of the flexible package; and a cover sensory
element communicating the first performance attribute of the
flexible package.
13. The flexible package of claim 12 wherein the grasping sensory
element comprises a graphic.
14. The flexible package of claim 12 wherein the first sensory
element comprises a graphic.
15. The flexible package of claim 12 wherein the first sensory
element further communicates a functional feature of the flexible
package.
16. The flexible package of claim 12 further comprising a second
sensory element, wherein the second sensory element communicates a
second performance attribute.
17. The flexible package of claim 12 further comprising a second
sensory element, wherein the second sensory element communicates
the first performance attribute and wherein the first sensory
element and the second sensory element differ.
18. A line up of flexible packages, each containing a plurality of
wipes therein, the line up of flexible packages comprising: (a) a
first flexible package containing a plurality of wipes, the first
flexible package comprising: (i) a first body; (ii) a first cover
having a first attachment region and a first liftable region,
wherein the first attachment region of the first cover is joined to
the first body; and (iii) a first sensory element communicating a
first characteristic of the first flexible package; and (b) a
second flexible package containing a plurality of wipes, the second
flexible package comprising: (i) a second body; (ii) a second cover
having a second attachment region and a second liftable region,
wherein the second attachment region of the second cover is joined
to the second body; and (iii) a second sensory element
communicating the first characteristic of the second flexible
package; and wherein the first sensory element differs from the
second sensory element.
19. The line up of claim 18 wherein the first flexible package
further comprises a first cover sensory element and the second
flexible package comprises a second cover sensory element, and
wherein the first cover sensory element differs from the second
cover sensory element.
20. The line up of claim 18 wherein the first flexible package
further comprises a first cover sensory element and the second
flexible package comprises the first cover sensory element.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a package
containing disposable absorbent articles. More specifically, the
present invention relates to a package containing disposable
absorbent articles wherein the package incorporates sensory
elements which communicate a characteristic of the package to a
consumer.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The field of disposable absorbent articles includes a wide
variety of consumer products which includes diapers, bibs, wipes,
sanitary napkins, tampons, etc. Within each category, i.e. diapers,
wipes, etc., the number of different product offerings is typically
large. For example, in the diapers category product offerings may
include pull-on diapers, taped diapers, training pants, newborn
diapers, etc.
[0003] Packaging for each of these disposable absorbent articles
typically includes the brand name of the disposable absorbent
article plus some iconography or design which allows the consumer
to readily recognize a particular brand. Additionally, packaging
for these disposable absorbent articles may include a description
on the number of absorbent articles within the package and a
description of how to use the disposable absorbent article. In some
cases, particularly, in how to use the disposable absorbent
article, communication with the consumer may be through visual
images without the use of alpha-numeric characters.
[0004] Visual images, excluding alpha-numeric characters, can be an
effective means of communication with consumers. For example, in
the context of diapers and/or wet wipes, consumers often shop with
babies or small children, resulting in less ability to intently
focus upon various product offerings of disposable absorbent
articles. Additionally, because the number of product offerings
within each category can be large, it may become increasingly
difficult for consumers to self-select the product or products
which most appropriately meet their needs.
[0005] Unfortunately, in some instances, a consumer may select an
inappropriate product simply based on the package. For example, the
consumer may select a product containing wet wipes which are
suitable for their needs. However, the consumer may inadvertently
select a package which cannot retain the moisture of the wet wipes
after being opened. After a period of use, the wipes which were
formerly wet would become dry. This could cause discomfort and/or
injury when using the dried out wipe. Conversely, the consumer may,
after realizing that they have chosen a product which does not suit
their needs, have to drive back to the place of purchase and try to
return the inappropriate product and subsequently purchase the
appropriate product.
[0006] Therefore, it is advantageous to provide a package
incorporating sensory elements communicating a characteristic of
the package. These sensory elements may help the consumer make
better decisions when purchasing packages containing disposable
absorbent articles.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The package of the present invention may include a sensory
element which communicates a characteristic of the package to a
consumer, thereby allowing the consumer to choose an appropriate
product for their particular needs. In some embodiments of the
present invention, a package containing at least one disposable
absorbent article may comprise a body and a first sensory element.
The body has an opening therein, and the first sensory element
communicates a first performance attribute of the package.
[0008] In other embodiments, a flexible package may comprise a
plurality of wipes therein, a body, a cover, a grasping sensory
element, a first sensory element, and a cover sensory element. The
cover may have an attachment region and a liftable region. The
attachment region of the cover can be joined to the body. The
grasping sensory element can be disposed on a portion of the
liftable region of the cover, and the grasping sensory element can
communicate a grasping area of the liftable region of the cover.
The first sensory element can be disposed on the cover, wherein the
first sensory element communicates a first characteristic of the
flexible package. The cover sensory element communicates the first
performance attribute of the flexible package
[0009] Other embodiments of the present invention include a line up
or array of packages. The line up of packages, along with each of
the packages in the line up comprising a plurality of wipes, may
further comprise a first package and a second package.
[0010] The first package may comprise a first body, a first cover,
and a first sensory element. The first cover includes a first
attachment region and a first liftable region. The first attachment
region of the first cover can be joined to the first body. The
first sensory element can communicate a first characteristic of the
first package to a consumer.
[0011] The second package may comprise a second body, a second
cover, and a second sensory element. The second cover includes a
second attachment region and a second liftable region. The second
attachment region can be joined to the second body. The second
sensory element can communicate the first characteristic of the
second package. The first sensory element and the second sensory
element can differ.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1A is an isometric view showing a flexible package
constructed in accordance with the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 1B is an isometric view showing the flexible package of
FIG. 1A where a cover of the flexible package is in an open
position.
[0014] FIG. 2A is a plan view showing an embodiment of a cover of
the flexible package of FIG. 1A.
[0015] FIG. 2B is an elevation view showing another embodiment of
the flexible package of FIG. 1A.
[0016] FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the cover of FIG. 1A.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing another embodiment of the
flexible package of FIG. 1A.
[0018] FIG. 5 is an isometric view showing a plastic tub
constructed in accordance with the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 6 is an isometric view showing another plastic tub
constructed in accordance with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Definitions
[0020] The present invention, in some embodiments, is directed to
packages comprising disposable absorbent articles or to an array or
a line up of packages containing disposable absorbent articles. As
used herein, the terms "line up" and "array" are intended to be
interchangeable. An "array" or "line up" refers to two or more
"products" which are each sold individually, but which are each
part of a broader collective offering. The individual offerings in
the line up or array are associated with each other by some
commonality or connection. Examples of such a commonality or
connection may include, but are not limited to: a common brand
name, a common logo, a common color scheme, a common graphic, or
any other indicia which signal that the products are related and
are offerings to sub-groups within the overall group to which the
line up or array as a whole is offered.
[0021] As used herein the term "characteristic" shall refer to a
functional feature and/or a performance attribute that helps to
distinguish a product. For example, characteristics of the package
can include re-sealable lids/covers, ability to retain moisture,
impeding the loss of moisture from the contents of a package,
facilitation of opening the package, and/or the like.
[0022] As used herein the term "performance attribute" refers to a
benefit provided by the package to content within the package
and/or to the end user when the content is used in accordance with
expected use. For example, in the context of wet wipes, a package
may retain the moisture of the wet wipes within the package or
impede the loss of moisture from the wet wipes within the package
provided that the package is used in accordance with expected
use.
[0023] The term "functional feature" refers to the capabilities of
the package when used in accordance with expected use. For example,
the package may have a re-closable cover, float in the tub, glow in
the dark, provide audible feedback in response to user action,
and/or the like.
[0024] As used herein the terms "differ" and "different", in the
context of sensory elements, shall include perceptible
dissimilarities in appearance, color, shape, design, feel, and/or
sound between two elements. In the context of characteristics, the
terms "differ" and "different" shall include functional
dissimilarities and performance attribute dissimilarities. For
example, a first characteristic may pertain to a package's ability
to impede the loss of moisture from the wipes within the package,
and a second characteristic may pertain to a package's re-closable
cover. In this example, the first characteristic differs from the
second characteristic.
[0025] The term "disposable" is used herein to describe products,
which generally are not intended to be laundered or otherwise
restored and reused for their original function. They are typically
intended to be discarded after about 1 or 2 uses. It is preferred
that such disposable articles be recycled, composted or otherwise
disposed of in an environmentally compatible manner.
[0026] A "disposable absorbent article" refers to an article device
that normally absorbs and/or retains fluids. In certain instances,
the phrase refers to articles that are placed against or in
proximity to the body of the wearer to absorb and contain the
excreta and/or exudates discharged from the body, and includes such
personal care articles as baby diapers, baby training pants, adult
incontinence articles, feminine hygiene articles, baby swim
diapers, wound dressings, and the like. In certain instances, a
disposable absorbent article may be worn by infants and other
incontinent persons about the lower torso. In other instances, a
disposable absorbent article may include wipes, bibs, sanitary
napkins, tampons, tissue, paper towels, and the like.
[0027] As used herein the term "joined" encompasses configurations
whereby an element is directly secured to another element by
affixing the element directly to the other element, and
configurations whereby an element is indirectly secured to another
element by affixing the element to an intermediate member(s) which
in turn are affixed to the other element. Additionally
configurations where an element is permanently secured to another
element or removably secured to another element are included.
[0028] As used herein the term "product" shall refer to a package
containing disposable absorbent articles.
[0029] As used herein the term "wet wipe" means a wipe having
moisture content of greater than about 10% by weight of the
substrate. Some wipes are delivered in an apparent "dry" state
although they have measurable moisture content. For example, some
cleansing wipes (such as for bathing, face washing, or makeup
removal) have a low moisture content (typically less than about
10%) cleansing solution which is impregnated or otherwise
integrated with the wipe substrate. This solution may be released
from the wipe upon immersing the wipe in water. Wet wipes often
have higher moisture content as packaged, such as moisture content
in the range from about 50% to about 350% or more by weight. For
purposes of this application the moisture content imparted into the
substrate will be referred to generically as "lotion." Such lotions
may be solutions, emulsions, or any other type of composition, and
are typically some sort of aqueous cleansing formulation. A wide
variety of such lotions is known in the art and is suitable.
Description
[0030] The packages of the present invention incorporate sensory
elements to communicate one or more characteristics of the package
to a consumer. The communication of the one or more characteristics
of the package to the consumer may aid the consumer in choosing a
product which is beneficial rather than detrimental to them.
[0031] The packages of the present invention, in some embodiments,
include flexible packages and rigid plastic containers, e.g.
plastic tubs. Examples of each are provided below. The present
invention is applicable to packages comprising content. For
example, in some embodiments, the present invention pertains to
packages comprising a plurality of disposable absorbent articles.
However, the description provided hereafter will pertain to
packages comprising a plurality of disposable wet wipes.
[0032] Packages constructed in accordance with the present
invention may comprise a body which substantially encloses the
contents of the package. The body may comprise an opening therein.
The opening may be opened and closed by any suitable means, e.g. a
cover. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, in some embodiments, a
package in accordance with the present invention may comprise a
flexible package 100. The flexible package 100 may comprise a body
110 and a cover 112. The cover 112, as shown, in some embodiments,
can be disposed on a top surface 130 of the body 110. However, the
cover 112 can be disposed on any suitable surface(s) of the body
110. In general the cover 112 is disposed on the body 110 such that
an opening 1015 (shown in FIG. 1B) is at least partially covered by
the cover 112 when the cover 112 is in the closed position.
[0033] As shown, in some embodiments, the body 110 can be formed
from a sheet of packaging film that is wrapped around the plurality
of disposable wipes (not shown). Adjacent ends of the packaging
film can be sealed together to completely enclose the disposable
wipes. Accordingly, a rear seal (not shown) may extend along a
length L of the body 110 and two side seams 126 may extend across a
lateral width W of the body 110.
[0034] The cover 112 may comprise an attachment region 120 and a
liftable region 122. The attachment region 120, in some embodiments
can be joined to the body 110. Additionally, in the closed
position, the liftable region 122 is joined to the body 110. To
expose the wipes within the body 110, a person can lift the
liftable region 122 of the cover 112. Generally, the cover 112 is
not lifted to such an extent that the attachment region 120 of the
cover 112 becomes unsecured from the body 110.
[0035] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1B, when the cover 112
is lifted, a portion 170 of the body 110 can be joined to the cover
112 such that the portion 170 of the body 110 can be lifted with
the cover 112, thereby exposing the wipes within the body 110. In
some embodiments, the body 110 may comprise a preexisting opening
which is covered by the cover 112. Thus, upon lifting the cover
112, the wipes within the package body 110 become exposed. In the
latter embodiments, upon lifting of the cover 112, no portion of
the body 110 is lifted with the cover 112.
[0036] Referring back to FIG. 1A, as stated previously, when the
cover 112 is in a closed position, both the attachment region 120
and the liftable region 122 can be joined to the body 110. There
are various means of joining the attachment region 120 and the
liftable region 122 to the body 110 while still allowing the
liftable region 122 to be unsecured and subsequently re-secured to
the body 110. For example, in some embodiments, the liftable region
122 may comprise a first adhesive while the attachment region 120
comprises a second adhesive. The first adhesive can be selected
such that the liftable region 122 of the cover 112 can be unsecured
and subsequently re-secured to the body 110 while the second
adhesive can be selected such that the attachment region 120 is
permanently secured to the body 110. In another example, the
liftable region 122 may comprise the same adhesive as the
attachment region 120. However, the liftable region 122 may
comprise a lower basis weight of applied adhesive than the
attachment region 120. In yet another example, the liftable region
122 may comprise no adhesive while the attachment region 120
comprises an adhesive. In yet another example, the liftable region
122 and the attachment region 120 may each comprise adhesive.
However, the liftable region 122 may further comprise an adhesive
deadening agent. Additionally, embodiments are contemplated where
the adhesive is disposed on the package body 110 and attaches to
the cover 112. Any suitable deadening agent known in the art can be
used. Similarly, any suitable adhesive known in the art can be
used. Examples of suitable adhesive include acrylic-based or
rubber-based adhesives. Re-sealable covers and package bodies
utilizing adhesive based systems are described in U.S. Pat. No.
6,309,105.
[0037] Embodiments are contemplated where the body 110 and/or the
cover 112 comprise other fastening element systems. For example,
embodiments are contemplated where the body 110 and/or the cover
112 comprise adhesives, mechanical fastening elements, magnetic
members, or combinations thereof. These embodiments are described
in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/157,663 filed on Jun. 21,
2005, entitled "RESEALABLE PACKAGE WITH SEPARABLE FASTENING
ELEMENT".
[0038] As shown in FIG. 1A, the cover 112, in some embodiments, may
comprise a grasping sensory element 160 which is disposed in the
liftable region 122 of the cover 112. The grasping sensory element
160 can communicate a grasping area 162 of the liftable region 122
of the cover 112. The grasping area 162 is that portion of the
liftable region 122 which the consumer can grasp, thereby allowing
the consumer to lift up the cover 112. As such, the grasping
sensory element can communicate to the consumer where to grasp the
cover 112 in order to lift the cover 112. Additionally, the
grasping sensory element 160 may communicate to the consumer that
the flexible package 100 comprises a feature which facilitates the
opening and closing of the cover 112.
[0039] Embodiments are contemplated where the grasping sensory
element 160 communicates through visual perception. For example,
the grasping sensory element 160 may comprise a graphic. For
example, the graphic may include an anthropomorphic image which
points to a grasping area 162 and/or in the direction in which the
consumer should lift the cover 112. The graphic may be any suitable
visual image or images. For example, the graphic may include
pictorial symbols and/or images, such as, but not limited to,
photographs, drawings, embossments, or any other suitable materials
utilized to create pictorial symbols and/or images. The pictorial
symbols and/or images may include an image of a child, an
anthropomorphic image of an animal or object, images of cartoons
including well known cartoon characters, images of well known brand
logos or the like, and/or images characters specifically created to
be associated with the implement of commerce, symbols, such as, but
not limited to arrows, indications or motion or movement, and the
like, and combinations thereof. Suitable examples of graphics are
discussed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005/0129743A1, U.S.
Patent Publication No. 2005/0125923A1, and U.S. Patent Publication
No. 2005/0125877A1. As used herein, the term "graphic" does not
include alpha-numeric characters unless otherwise specified.
[0040] In conjunction with or independently of the graphic, the
grasping sensory element 160, in some embodiments, may include a
color which is perceptibly different than the color of the
attachment region 120, which is perceptibly different from a
portion of the liftable region 122, or which is perceptibly
different from the attachment region 120 and a portion of the
liftable region 122. For example, in one particular embodiment, the
attachment region 120 and a portion of the liftable region 122 may
comprise a color which is not perceptibly different than the color
of the body 110. In this particular embodiment, the grasping
sensory element 160 may comprise a color which is perceptibly
different than the color of the attachment region 120 and the body
110.
[0041] In some embodiments, the grasping sensory element 160 may be
limited to communicating the location of the grasping area 162 by
visual perception. However, embodiments are contemplated where the
grasping sensory element 160 communicates with the consumer by way
of visual perception and/or tactile perception. For example, the
grasping sensory element 160 can be embossed upon the cover 112
such that in addition to a perceptible visual difference between
the grasping sensory element 160 and other portions of the cover
112, a perceptible tactile difference may also exist between the
grasping sensory element 160 and other portions of the cover 112.
As another example, the grasping sensory element 160 may
communicate with the consumer by tactile perception.
[0042] There are many means by which the grasping sensory element
160 may communicate by visual and/or tactile perception. For
example, as stated previously, the grasping sensory element 160 may
be embossed onto the cover 112. As another example, material may be
added to the grasping sensory element 160 such that a perceptible
tactile difference and/or a perceptible visual difference are
created. Any suitable means known in the art can be utilized to
create a perceptible tactile difference and/or a perceptible visual
difference.
[0043] Other characteristics of the flexible package 100 can be
communicated to the consumer. As shown in FIG. 2A, for example, the
flexible package 100 (shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B), in some
embodiments, may comprise a first sensory element 260. In some
embodiments, the first sensory element 260 may be disposed on the
cover 112. As shown in FIG. 2B, in some embodiments, the first
sensory element 260 may be disposed on the body 110. In some
embodiments the first sensory element 260 can be disposed subjacent
to the cover 112. The first sensory element 260 can be disposed in
any suitable location on the cover 112 and/or the body 110 of the
flexible package 100 (shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2B). The first
sensory element 260 can communicate a characteristic of the
flexible package 100 to the consumer as shown in FIGS. 2A and
2B.
[0044] In some embodiments, the cover 112 can be substantially
transparent such that the first sensory element 260 can be
perceived by the naked eye when the cover 112 is in the closed
position. Alternatively, the cover 112 can be substantially opaque
such that the first sensory element 260 or a portion thereof cannot
be perceived by the naked eye when the cover 112 is in the closed
position.
[0045] As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, in some embodiments, the first
sensory element 260 may comprise an image of a bivalve which is
capable of opening and subsequently re-closing thereby
communicating to the consumer that the flexible package 100
comprises a cover 112 which is capable of opening and re-closing.
Additionally, the image of a bivalve may communicate to the
consumer that the flexible package 100 is capable of retaining the
moisture of the wipes within the flexible package 100 or impeding
the loss of the moisture of the wipes within the flexible package
100.
[0046] As described above with regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the first
sensory element 260, in some embodiments, can communicate a
functional feature of the flexible package 100 to the consumer.
Additionally, in some embodiments, the first sensory element 260
can communicate a first characteristic which is a functional
feature and a second characteristic which is a performance
attribute of the flexible package 100 to the consumer. Embodiments
are contemplated where first sensory element 260 communicates to
the consumer a characteristic of the flexible package 100 wherein
the characteristic is a performance attribute. Furthermore,
embodiments are contemplated wherein the first sensory element 260
communicates more than one functional feature and/or performance
attribute. Also, embodiments are contemplated wherein the first
sensory element 260 also communicates properties of the contents of
a package, e.g. wet wipes within a package in addition to a
characteristic of the package.
[0047] The first sensory element 260 may include an image of any
suitable object known in the art capable of communicating a
characteristic of a package to a consumer. For example, in some
embodiments, the first sensory element 260 may include an image of
bivalves, suitable examples of which include oysters, clams, and
the like. Additionally, embodiments are contemplated where the
first sensory element comprises a graphic as described above.
Moreover, embodiments are contemplated where the first sensory
element 260 communicates to the consumer by visual and/or tactile
perception as described above with regard to the grasping sensory
element 160 (shown in FIG. 1A).
[0048] As shown in FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the flexible
package 100 (shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2B) may comprise a cover
sensory element 360 which communicates a characteristic of the
flexible package 100 (shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2B) to the
consumer. For example, the cover sensory element 360 may
communicate to the consumer that the flexible package 100 (shown in
FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2B) can retain the moisture of the wipes disposed
within the flexible package 100 (shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2B) or
impede the loss of the moisture from the wipes within the flexible
package 100 (shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2B). As such, embodiments
are contemplated where the cover sensory element 360 communicates a
performance attribute to the consumer. Additionally, embodiments
are contemplated where the cover sensory element 360 communicates a
functional feature of the flexible package 100 (shown in FIGS. 1A,
1B, and 2B) in addition to a performance attribute of the flexible
package 100 (shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2B). For example, the cover
112 may include a shape similar to a bivalve or a portion thereof
thereby communicating to the consumer that the package 100
comprises a re-closable cover 112. Moreover, embodiments are
contemplated wherein the cover sensory element 360 communicates one
or more performance attributes of a package and/or one or more
functional features of a package.
[0049] As shown, in some embodiments, the cover sensory element 360
may comprise a droplet shaped cover 112. The cover 112 may include
any suitable shape known in the art which is capable of
communicating a characteristic and/or performance attribute of a
package. In some embodiments, the cover 112 and the first sensory
element 260 (shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B) may correlate. For example,
in some embodiments, the cover 112 may comprise the shape of a
bivalve or half of a bivalve and the first sensory element 260
(shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B) may comprise an image of a bivalve.
Moreover, embodiments are contemplated where the cover sensory
element 360 communicates to the consumer by visual and/or tactile
perception as described above with regard to the grasping sensory
element 160 (shown in FIG. 1A).
[0050] Additionally, the cover sensory element 360, in some
embodiments, may communicate to the consumer a property of the
wipes along with at least one characteristic of the flexible
package 100 (shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2B). For example, in some
embodiments, the cover sensory element 360 can communicate to the
consumer that the wipes within the flexible package 100 (shown in
FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2B) are wet.
[0051] As shown in FIG. 4, in some embodiments, the flexible
package 100 may comprise a second sensory element 460 which
communicates a characteristic of the flexible package 100 to the
consumer. The second sensory element 460 can be configured similar
to the first sensory element 260 (shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B)
described heretofore.
[0052] As shown, in some embodiments, the second sensory element
460 may comprise an image which depicts a liquid droplet falling
into a body of liquid. The second sensory element 460 may comprise
any suitable image which is capable of communicating to the
consumer a characteristic of a package. Additionally, in some
embodiments, the second sensory element 460 may communicate
properties of the contents within the flexible package 100 in
addition to a characteristic of the flexible package 100.
[0053] As stated previously, a package in accordance with the
present invention may comprise a flexible package and/or a plastic
tub. As shown in FIG. 5, in some embodiments, a plastic tub 500
constructed in accordance with the present invention may comprise a
container body 11, a closing device 10, a stationary housing 12,
and a movable cover 13. In some embodiments, the plastic tub 500
may further comprise a locking mechanism 14 which holds the movable
cover 13 in the closed position and a spring element 15 which
allows the movable cover 13 to automatically open. The plastic tub
500 may further comprise a gas-tight means 16 which may prevent
drying out of the wipes during storage.
[0054] As shown, in some embodiments, the container body 11 may
comprise a bottom wall 17, a back 18, a front 19, a right side wall
20, and a left side wall 21, which define a substantially
parallelepipedic hollow receptacle. As shown, the container body's
top side is wide open so as to define an upper opening. A flange
may extend along an outer peripheral edge of the opening onto which
the closing device 10 is fitted.
[0055] In some embodiments, the front wall 19 may comprise a
protruding portion 25 which may cooperate with a second protrusion
26 disposed on the movable cover 13 so as to form the releasable
locking mechanism 14. In operation, upon depressing a deformable
portion 27, the movable lid 13 can be automatically opened via the
spring element 15 thereby exposing an opening 23 in the top surface
of the stationary housing 12. The operation and construction of the
plastic tub 500 are discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,902,077.
[0056] The plastic tub 500 of the present invention may comprise a
first sensory element as described heretofore. In conjunction with
the first sensory element or independently of the first sensory
element, the plastic tub 500 may comprise a second sensory element,
a grasping sensory element, and/or a cover sensory element, as
described heretofore. For example, the first sensory element may
communicate to the consumer that the plastic tub 500 can retain the
moisture of the wipes disposed within the plastic tub 500, or that
the plastic tub 500 at least impedes the loss of moisture of the
wipes within the plastic tub 500.
[0057] The first sensory element and/or the second sensory element
may be disposed on any suitable surface of the plastic tub 500. For
example, the first sensory element and the second sensory element
may be disposed on the front wall 19 and the movable cover 13,
respectively. In order to communicate the characteristics of the
plastic tub 500 effectively, the first sensory element and/or the
second sensory element should be disposed on an exterior surface of
the plastic tub 500 such that the first sensory element and/or the
second sensory element are visible from the store shelf to the
consumer. However, embodiments are contemplated where the plastic
tub 500 may comprise sensory elements which are disposed on the
interior of the tub which may communicate further characteristics
of the plastic tub 500 to the consumer.
[0058] As shown in FIG. 6, in some embodiments, a plastic tub 600
may comprise a cover 674 hingedly associated with a container body
662 and a base 678. The container body 662 may comprise a pair of
side walls (only one is shown, i.e. side wall 634), a front face
632 and top surface 684. Additionally, the container body 662 may
comprise an opening 680 which, in some embodiments, is disposed on
the top surface 684 of the container body 662. The opening 680 may
be disposed in any suitable location on the container body 662.
[0059] The container body 662 may be removably associated with the
base 678 such that the combination of the container body 662 and
the base 678 form an enclosure having the opening 680. Wipes may be
placed within the enclosure by removing the container body 662 from
the base 678 and placing the wipes on the base 678. Subsequently,
the container body 662 may be re-joined to the base 678 thereby
enclosing the wipes.
[0060] As shown, the cover 674 is in the open position. However,
being hingedly associated with the container body 662, the cover
674 is capable of closing thereby covering at least a portion of,
if not all, the opening 680. The cover 674 can be held in the
closed position by the latching element 682. In some embodiments,
by depressing the latching element 682, the cover 674 can be
released and may be subsequently opened by the consumer. Opening
the cover 674 may expose at least a portion of the opening 680
thereby exposing the wipes within the enclosure.
[0061] Similar to the plastic tub 500 (shown in FIG. 5), the
plastic tub 600, in some embodiments, may comprise a first sensory
element, a second sensory element, a grasping sensory element,
and/or a cover sensory element. For example, the first sensory
element may communicate to a consumer a that the plastic tub 600
can retain the moisture of the wipes disposed within the plastic
tub 600 or impede the loss of moisture from the wipes within the
plastic tub 600. The first sensory element, the second sensory
element, the grasping sensory element, and/or the cover sensory
element can be configured as described heretofore. Additionally,
the first sensory element and the second sensory element may be
disposed on the plastic tub 600 in any suitable location.
Additionally, as described above with regard to the plastic tub 500
(shown in FIG. 5), the plastic tub 600 may further comprise sensory
elements disposed within the container body 662 and/or inner facing
surface of the base 678 which communicate further characteristics
of the plastic tub 600.
[0062] Another aspect of the present invention is directed to line
ups and arrays of products. A line up of products according to the
present invention may comprise two or more packages as described
heretofore. For example, a first package may comprise a first
sensory element, and a second package may comprise a second sensory
element. In some embodiments, the first sensory element may
communicate a functional feature of the first package while the
second sensory element communicates a performance attribute of the
second package. As an example, the functional feature may be that
the package includes a re-closable cover while the performance
attribute may be that the package impedes the loss of moisture from
the wipes within the package.
[0063] In some embodiments, the first package may comprise a first
sensory element, and a second package may comprise a second sensory
element. However, the first sensory element and the second sensory
element, in some embodiments, may communicate the same
characteristic and be perceptibly different from one another.
Additionally, embodiments are contemplated where the first package
further comprises a first grasping sensory element, and the second
package comprises a second grasping sensory element. In some
embodiments, the first grasping sensory element and the second
grasping sensory element may be perceptibly different from one
another. Similarly, embodiments are contemplated where the first
package comprises a first cover sensory element, and a second
package comprises a second cover sensory element. In some
embodiments, the first cover sensory element and the second cover
sensory element can be perceptibly different.
[0064] Embodiments are contemplated where a first package and/or a
second package comprise a combination of at least one of a first
sensory element, a second sensory element, a grasping sensory
element, and a cover sensory element. Moreover, embodiments are
contemplated where at least one of the first sensory element, the
second sensory element, the grasping sensory element, and the cover
sensory element, between the first package and the second package
are perceptibly different. In these embodiments, differing sensory
elements may communicate the same characteristic and/or performance
attribute or may communicate differing characteristics and/or
performance attributes of their respective packages.
[0065] Multiple characteristics of a package constructed in
accordance with the present invention may be communicated via a
combination of the grasping sensory element, the first sensory
element, the cover sensory element, and/or the second sensory
element. For example, embodiments are contemplated where the first
sensory element 260 (shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B) communicates a first
characteristic of a package and the second sensory element 460
(shown in FIG. 4) communicates a second characteristic of the
package which is different from the first characteristic. For
example, in some embodiments, the first sensory element 260 (shown
in FIGS. 2A and 2B) may communicate to functional feature while the
second sensory element 460 (shown in FIG. 4) may communicate a
performance attribute of the package.
[0066] Additionally, embodiments are contemplated where a synergy
exists between two or more sensory elements. For example, the
grasping sensory element 160 (shown in FIG. 1A) may comprise a
first graphic. Similarly, the first sensory element 260 (shown in
FIGS. 2A and 2B) may comprise the first graphic or a portion of the
first graphic. Other synergistic relationships are contemplated.
For example, in some embodiments, the cover sensory element 360
(shown in FIG. 3) may comprise a shape which generally conforms to
that of a bivalve, and the first sensory element 260 (shown in
FIGS. 2A and 2B), the second sensory element 460 (shown in FIG. 4),
and/or the grasping sensory element 160 (shown in FIG. 1A) may
comprise an image of a bivalve. Additionally, in some embodiments,
the first sensory element and the second sensory element, in some
embodiments, may communicate the same characteristic and be
perceptibly different from one another. However, the first sensory
element and the second sensory element, in some embodiments, may
communicate the same characteristic and be perceptibly different
from one another.
[0067] Embodiments are contemplated where the first sensory
element, the second sensory element, the grasping sensory element,
and/or the cover sensory element, communicate a characteristic of a
package by audible perception. Any suitable audible device known in
the art can be used.
[0068] In addition to the sensory elements described herein,
packages constructed in accordance with the present invention may
comprise targeted sensory elements, targeted scent elements,
targeted tactile elements, and targeted auditory elements as
described in U.S. application Ser. No. 11/066,091 entitled "Line Up
of Wipes Products Incorporating Targeted Sensory Elements", filed
on behalf of Joshua James Norman.
[0069] Additionally, embodiments are contemplated where a package
or a portion thereof comprises a gender specific color. For
example, a package may comprise a color which is a shade of pink.
As another example, a package may comprise a color which is a shade
of blue. In yet another example, a package may comprise a color
which is gender neutral, such as shades of purple or shades of
green. Further examples are discussed in U.S. Patent Publication
No. 2005/0129743A1, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005/0125923A1, and
U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005/0125877A1.
[0070] Each of the packages of the present invention includes a wet
wipe or a plurality of wet wipes. A wet wipe may comprise at least
a substrate. No particular design for such a substrate is required,
and those of skill in the art will readily appreciate that all
manner and variety of substrates are suitable. Nonwoven materials
are typical, though not required, for substrates. Additionally, the
substrates may be formed into sheet-like material by any of a
variety of well known processes including: airlaying, carding,
spunbonding, spunlacing, hydroforming, and the like.
[0071] The properties of the substrate according to the present
invention may be homogeneous or non-homogeneous. For example, while
a single uniform web is suitable, it may be desired to have a
layered substrate where fiber composition is different among some
or all of the various layers. Additionally, zones of varying
properties are also possible. Substrates may be made from a variety
of conventional natural and/or synthetic fibers including
cellulosic based fibers (such as rayon, cotton, pulp, lyocell, and
variations of these), or polyethylene, polypropylene, bicomponent
or other synthetic fibers.
[0072] Wipes suitable for use in the presented invention may be
provided in a wide variety of convenient shapes and sizes although
there is no particular shape or size which is necessary. For ease
of manufacture and dispensing, rectangular sheets of wipe material
may be used, although wipes can also be rounded, circular, or other
shapes. Individual sheets can be separately packaged (such as in an
interleaved "pop up" configuration) or the wipes can be packaged in
a continuous stack or roll to be separated later by the user (e.g.,
by perforations or the like).
[0073] The substrate material of a wipe may be impregnated with a
liquid or semi-liquid composition that may enhance cleaning,
provide a smooth feeling, or perform some other function. The
composition may include an emollient, a surfactant, an emulsifier,
a soothing agent, a rheology modifier, a preservative or
preservative system, water, or other component. Suitable examples
of each component and additional details regarding substrates and
compositions for wet wipes, are described in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/878,875, filed on Jul. 9, 2004, and
entitled "A Composition for Wet Wipes that Enhances the Efficacy of
Cleansing While Being Gentle to the Skin".
[0074] The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be
understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values
recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension
is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally
equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension
disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".
[0075] All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the
Invention are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by reference;
the citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission
that it is prior art with respect to the present invention. To the
extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this written
document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the term in a
document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition
assigned to the term in this written document shall govern.
[0076] While particular embodiments of the present invention have
been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those
skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can
be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims
all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of
this invention.
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