U.S. patent application number 11/509791 was filed with the patent office on 2008-02-28 for insulation sleeve for beverage containers.
This patent application is currently assigned to KIMBERLY-CLARK WORLDWIDE, INC.. Invention is credited to Michael S. Brunner, Paul W. Estey, Tamara L. Mace.
Application Number | 20080047967 11/509791 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38811405 |
Filed Date | 2008-02-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080047967 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Brunner; Michael S. ; et
al. |
February 28, 2008 |
Insulation sleeve for beverage containers
Abstract
An insulating sleeve for a beverage container includes a
flexible shell member that is collapsible into a flat panel
configuration when not in use. The shell member includes a foam
layer, and a liquid permeable skin layer applied to the foam layer
at an inner circumferential surface thereof. The shell member is
relatively thin yet provides the thermal insulating efficiency of
heaver and thicker beverage container sleeves.
Inventors: |
Brunner; Michael S.;
(Roswell, GA) ; Mace; Tamara L.; (Marietta,
GA) ; Estey; Paul W.; (Blue Ridge, GA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DORITY & MANNING, P.A.
POST OFFICE BOX 1449
GREENVILLE
SC
29602-1449
US
|
Assignee: |
KIMBERLY-CLARK WORLDWIDE,
INC.
|
Family ID: |
38811405 |
Appl. No.: |
11/509791 |
Filed: |
August 24, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/737 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 81/3886
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/737 |
International
Class: |
B65D 25/00 20060101
B65D025/00 |
Claims
1. An insulating sleeve for a beverage container, comprising a
shell member, said shell member collapsible into a flat panel
configuration when not in use; said shell member comprising a foam
layer, and a skin layer applied to said foam layer at an inner
circumferential surface; said shell member comprising a total basis
weight of less than about 400.0 gsm and a thermal efficiency factor
A determined as a function of said basis weight of least about
0.05.
2. The insulating sleeve as in claim 1, further comprising a second
skin layer applied to an outer circumferential surface of said foam
layer.
3. The insulating sleeve as in claim 1, wherein said shell member
comprises a total basis weight of less than about 200.0 gsm.
4. The insulating sleeve as in claim 2, wherein said thermal
efficiency factor A is at least about 0.075
5. The insulating sleeve as in claim 4, wherein said thermal
efficiency factor A is at least about 0.09
6. The insulating sleeve as in claim 1, wherein said sleeve has a
bulk in its flat panel configuration of less than about 7.0 mm.
7. The insulating sleeve as in claim 1, wherein said sleeve has a
bulk in its flat panel configuration of less than about 5.0 mm.
8. The insulating sleeve as in claim 1, wherein said sleeve has a
bulk in its flat panel configuration of less than about 4.0 mm.
9. The insulating sleeve as in claim 1, wherein said sleeve has a
single layer thickness of less than about 4.0 mm.
10. The insulating sleeve as in claim 1, wherein said sleeve has a
single layer thickness of less than about 3.0 mm.
11. The insulating sleeve as in claim 1, wherein said sleeve has a
total weight of less than about 6.0 grams.
12. The insulating sleeve as in claim 11, wherein said sleeve has a
thermal efficiency factor B determined as a function of said total
weight of less of least about 2.50.
13. The insulating sleeve as in claim 12, wherein said sleeve has a
total weight of less than about 4.5 grams and a thermal efficiency
factor B of at least about 3.50.
14. The insulating sleeve as in claim 12, wherein said sleeve has a
total weight of less than about 5.5 grams and a thermal efficiency
factor B of at least about 3.00.
15. The insulating sleeve as in claim 12, wherein said sleeve has
an inner diameter of less than about 210 mm.
16. The insulating sleeve as in claim 15, wherein said sleeve is
extensible and has an inner diameter of less than about 204 mm,
wherein said sleeve extends in use to encircle a beverage can
having a diameter of at least about 204 mm.
17. The insulating sleeve as in claim 16, wherein said sleeve has a
circumferential extension of less than about 5%.
18. The insulating sleeve as in claim 16, wherein said foam layer
comprises an apertured foam having a pattern of apertures defined
therethrough.
19. The insulating sleeve as in claim 18, further comprising a
second skin layer applied to an outer circumferential surface of
said foam layer.
20. The insulating sleeve as in claim 18, wherein said outer
circumferential surface of said foam layer is exposed such that
upon extending said sleeve around a beverage container, said
apertures open and provide said sleeve with a grip enhancing
surface.
21. An insulating sleeve for a beverage container, comprising an
extensible shell member, said shell member collapsible into a flat
panel configuration when not in use, said shell member extensible
in a circumferential direction to accommodate a beverage container
inserted into said sleeve; said shell member further comprising a
foam layer, and further comprising a pattern of passages defined
therethrough; skin layers applied to inner and outer
circumferential surfaces of said shell member such that said foam
layer is sandwiched between said skin layers; and wherein upon said
shell member extending, said passages open to define expanded cells
in said foam layer closed at opposite ends thereof by said skin
layers, said closed expanded cells and foam layer providing said
sleeve with a total thermal insulating efficiency.
22. The insulating sleeve as in claim 21, wherein said foam layer
comprises a slit apertured foam with a pattern of slits defined
therethrough.
23. The insulating sleeve as in claim 21, wherein said inner skin
layer comprises an extensible liquid permeable material.
24. The insulating sleeve as in claim 21, wherein said outer skin
layer comprises an extensible liquid impermeable material.
25. The insulating sleeve as in claim 21, wherein said foam layer
has a basis weight of less than about 180 gsm, and said shell
member comprises a total basis weight of less than about 400.0
gsm.
26. The insulating sleeve as in claim 25, wherein said shell member
comprises a total basis weight of less than about 200.0 gsm.
27. The insulating sleeve as in claim 21, wherein said sleeve has a
bulk in its flat panel configuration of less than about 7.0 mm.
28. The insulating sleeve as in claim 21, wherein said sleeve has a
bulk in its flat panel configuration of less than about 5.0 mm.
29. The insulating sleeve as in claim 21, wherein said sleeve has a
bulk in its flat panel configuration of less than about 4.0 mm.
30. The insulating sleeve as in claim 21, wherein said sleeve has a
single layer thickness of less than about 4.0 mm.
31. The insulating sleeve as in claim 21, wherein said sleeve has a
single layer thickness of less than about 3.0 mm.
32. The insulating sleeve as in claim 21, wherein said sleeve has a
total weight of less than about 6.0 grams.
33. The insulating sleeve as in claim 21, wherein said sleeve has a
total weight of less than about 4.5 grams.
34. The insulating sleeve as in claim 33, wherein said sleeve has a
circumferential extension of less than about 10%.
35. An insulating sleeve for a beverage container, comprising an
extensible shell member, said shell member collapsible into a flat
panel configuration when not in use, said shell member extensible
in a circumferential direction to accommodate a beverage container
inserted into said sleeve; said shell member further comprising a
foam layer with a pattern of passages defined therethrough; a inner
skin layer applied to an inner circumferential surface of said
shell member, an outer circumferential surface of said foam layer
being exposed; and wherein upon said shell member extending, said
passages open and provide a grip enhancing surface to a user on
said outer circumferential surface of said foam layer.
36. The insulating sleeve as in claim 35, wherein said foam layer
comprises a slit apertured foam with a pattern of slits defined
therethrough.
37. The insulating sleeve as in claim 35, wherein said inner skin
layer comprises an extensible liquid permeable material.
38. The insulating sleeve as in claim 35, wherein said foam layer
has a basis weight of less than about 180 gsm, and said shell
member comprises a total basis weight of less than about 400.0
gsm.
39. The insulating sleeve as in claim 38, wherein said shell member
comprises a total basis weight of less than about 200.0 gsm.
40. The insulating sleeve as in claim 35, wherein said sleeve has a
bulk in its flat panel configuration of less than about 4.0 mm.
41. The insulating sleeve as in claim 35, wherein said sleeve has a
single layer thickness of less than about 3.0 mm.
42. The insulating sleeve as in claim 35, wherein said sleeve has a
total weight of less than about 4.5 grams.
43. The insulating sleeve as in claim 32, wherein said sleeve has a
circumferential extension of less than about 10%.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a thermal insulation sleeve
configured for beverage containers.
[0002] Various types of conventional insulating sleeves are known
in the art for thermally insulating a beverage container to
maintain the liquid in the container at a cool temperature. These
devices also serve to protect the user's hand from the discomfort
of holding extremely cold containers. Typically, the conventional
insulating sleeves incorporate one or more layers of insulating
material, such as a foam material, that dictate the thermal
insulating efficiency of the sleeve.
[0003] Relatively thick and bulky beverage container sleeves are
known that provide a significant insulating benefit. These devices
are typically molded or otherwise formed into open-ended
cylindrical devices sized for receipt of a beverage container
therein. These devices maintain their three-dimensional shape when
the container is removed and, thus, require significant space for
transport and storage. However, in recreational and other
environments wherein such devices are typically desired, space is a
valuable commodity.
[0004] Beverage container sleeves are also known that are
relatively thin and collapsible. These devices are readily stored
and transported, but do not offer the thermal insulating efficiency
of the larger, more substantial devices.
[0005] Accordingly, the art is in need of an insulation sleeve for
beverage containers that offers the portability and convenience of
a thin, collapsible sleeve with the thermal efficiency of a much
larger device having substantially more insulation. The present
invention relates to just such a device.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Objects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in
part in the following description, or may be obvious from the
description, or may be learned through practice of the
invention.
[0007] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention,
an insulating sleeve specifically designed for a beverage container
is provided. The sleeve includes a flexible shell member that
collapses into a flat panel configuration when not in use. The
shell member is opened into a generally tubular or cylindrical
configuration for receipt of a beverage container inserted into the
sleeve. The shell member in this particular embodiment includes a
foam insulation layer having a basis weight of, for example, less
than about 180 gsm. Other basis weights are also contemplated
within the scope of the invention. A skin layer may be applied to
the foam layer at the inner circumferential surface that lies
adjacent to the beverage container. This skin layer may be, for
example, a nonwoven material, particularly a hydrophobic nonwoven
web. The shell member comprises a total basis weight of less than
about 400.0 gsm and a thermal efficiency factor "A" that is
determined as a function of the basis weight. This thermal
efficiency factor is at least about 0.050. In particular
embodiments, the thermal efficiency factor "A" is at least about
0.075, and is at least about 0.090 in still other embodiments. As
described in greater detail herein, the thermal efficiency factor
"A" is determined from a change in temperature of a liquid within a
beverage container over a specified period of time divided by the
total basis weight of the insulating sleeve.
[0008] In certain embodiments, the insulating sleeve may comprise a
total basis weight of less than about 200.0 gsm and have a thermal
efficiency factor "A" of at least about 0.090.
[0009] The insulating sleeve of the present invention is
particularly unique in that it provides significant insulation
while maintaining a relatively thin profile, particularly in the
folded flat panel configuration of the sleeve. For example, the
sleeve may have a bulk measurement in the flat panel configuration
of less than about 7.0 mm, and particularly less than about 5.0 mm,
or less than about 4.0 mm in alternate configurations. The sleeve
member may have a single layer thickness of less than about 4.0 mm,
and more particularly less than about 3.0 mm.
[0010] In embodiments of the insulating sleeve particularly
configured for conventional sized beverage cans, the sleeve may
have a total weight of less than about 6.0 grams, and more
particularly less than about 5.0 grams, or less than about 4.0
grams in alternate configurations. The sleeve may have an
additional thermal efficiency factor "B" that is determined as a
function of the total weight of the sleeve. This thermal efficiency
factor "B" is desirably at least about 2.50. In certain
embodiments, the sleeve has a total weight of less than about 4.5
grams and a thermal efficiency factor "B" of at least about 3.50.
In still other embodiments, the sleeve has a total weight of less
than about 5.5 grams and a thermal efficiency factor "B" of at
least about 3.00. As described in greater detail below, the thermal
efficiency factor "B" is determined by dividing the change in
temperature of a beverage within a container over a specified
period of time by the total weight of the sleeve. The thermal
efficiency factor "B" thus gives a measure of efficiency for
products sized specifically for beverage containers of a particular
configuration and size.
[0011] The insulating sleeve may be extensible in order to expand
and receive a beverage container of a particular diameter. For
example, in an embodiment of a sleeve designed for standard sized
beverage cans, the sleeve has an inner diameter in its relaxed
state of less than about 210 mm, and particularly less than about
204 mm. To use the sleeve, a user expands the sleeve to encircle a
beverage can having a diameter of at least about 204 mm. The sleeve
may have a circumferential extension of less than about 10%, and
less than about 5% in certain configurations.
[0012] To allow for expansion of the sleeve, any combination of the
foam and skin layers is extensible. In certain embodiments, one or
more of the layers may be elastomeric. In other embodiments, the
foam layer is rendered extensible by passages, such as apertures or
slits, defined completely through the foam layer. Upon donning the
sleeve on a beverage container, the apertures open into cells to
accommodate the expansion. The inner skin layer is extensible to at
least a degree necessary to also accommodate the expansion. In this
regard, the skin layer may comprise a liquid permeable elastomeric
nonwoven material.
[0013] The insulating sleeve may include a second outer skin layer
applied to the outer circumferential surface of the foam layer. In
one configuration, this second skin layer may be a hydrophobic
nonwoven material. This material may further include a textured
surface to provide a grip-enhancing surface for the user. In
embodiments wherein the sleeve member is extensible, the outer skin
layer is also extensible.
[0014] In a further embodiment of the invention, an insulating
sleeve for a beverage container is provided. The sleeve includes an
extensible shell member that expands in the circumferential
direction to accommodate a beverage container inserted into the
sleeve. The shell member includes a foam layer having a pattern of
passages, such as slits, defined therethrough. A skin layer is
applied to the inner and outer circumferential surfaces of the
shell member such that the foam layer is sandwiched between the
skin layers. The inner and outer skin layers are formed of an
extensible material to accommodate expansion of the sleeve member,
and in a particular embodiment may comprise liquid permeable
nonwoven materials. The skin layers may be elastomeric. Upon
expanding the shell member, the passages in the foam layer open to
define expanded cells in the foam layer. These cells defined by the
walls of the passages are closed at the opposite ends thereof by
the skin layers such that the expanded cells and skin layers define
a network of relatively large closed cells in the foam layer. The
foam material is, in turn, defined by smaller open cells, closed
cells, or a combination of open and closed cells. Thus, it should
be appreciated, that the foam material and system of closed
expanded cells provide the sleeve with an overall total thermal
insulating efficiency.
[0015] The insulating sleeve having the expanded closed cell
configuration may also include any one or combination of the
thermal or physical characteristics set forth above. For example,
the foam layer may have a basis weight of less than about 180 gsm,
with the shell member comprising a total basis weight of less than
about 400.0 gsm. The sleeve may have a bulk thickness in its flat
panel configuration of less than about 7.0 mm, and more
particularly less than about 5.0 mm or 4.0 mm. The sleeve may have
a single layer thickness of less than about 4.0 mm, and more
particularly less than about 3.0 mm.
[0016] In still a further embodiment of the invention, an
insulating sleeve for a beverage container is provided with an
extensible shell member that is collapsible into a flat panel
configuration. The shell member expands in a circumferential
direction to accommodate a beverage container inserted into the
sleeve. The shell member includes a foam layer with a pattern of
passages, such as a slits, defined therethrough. An inner skin
layer is applied to the inner circumferential surface of the shell
member, while the outer circumferential surface of the foam layer
remains exposed. In other words, a skin layer is not applied to the
outer circumferential surface of the foam. In use of the device,
the shell member expands in the circumferential direction to
accommodate a beverage container inserted into the sleeve. The
passages in the foam layer open to accommodate this expansion and
provide a textured, grip-enhancing surface to a user on the outer
circumferential surface of the foam layer. Depending on the length,
shape, and configuration of the passages, the outer surface of the
foam layer may be provided with an "alligator skin" surface. This
type of grip enhancing surface may be particularly desired in
certain recreational environments, such as a marine
environment.
[0017] Other features and aspects of the present invention are
described in more detail below with reference to particular
embodiments illustrated in the figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention,
including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill
in the art, is set forth more particularly in the remainder of the
specification, which makes reference to the appended figures in
which:
[0019] FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C are perspective views of an embodiment
of an insulating sleeve for a beverage container in accordance with
the invention.
[0020] FIG. 1D is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the sleeve
shown in FIG. 1C taken along the indicated lines.
[0021] FIG. 1E is a cross-sectional view of single panel of an
alternate embodiment of a sleeve incorporating inner and outer
sleeve members.
[0022] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of
an insulating sleeve in accordance with the invention.
[0023] FIG. 2B is a partial cut-away view of a portion of the
sleeve indicated in FIG. 2A.
[0024] FIG. 3 is a partial cut-away view of a portion of an
alternate embodiment of a sleeve member according to the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF REPRESENTATIVE EMBODIMENTS
Definitions
[0025] "Elastomeric" and "elastic" refer to materials having
elastomeric or rubbery properties. Elastomeric materials, such as
thermoplastic elastomers, are generally capable of recovering their
shape after deformation when the deforming force is removed.
Specifically, as used herein, elastomeric is meant to be that
property of any material which upon application of an elongating
force, permits that material to be stretchable to a stretched
length which is at least about 20 percent greater than its relaxed
length, and that will cause the material to recover at least 30
percent of its elongation upon release of the stretching elongating
force.
[0026] "Extensible" or "Extensibility" generally refers to a
material that stretches or extends in the direction of an applied
force by at least about 200% of its relaxed length or width. An
extensible material does not necessarily have recovery properties.
For example, an elastomeric material is an extensible material
having recovery properties. A meltblown web may be extensible, but
not have recovery properties, and thus, be an extensible,
non-elastic material.
[0027] As used herein, the term "bonded carded web" refers to a web
made from staple fibers that are sent through a combing or carding
unit, which separates or breaks apart and aligns the staple fibers
in the machine direction to form a generally machine
direction-oriented fibrous nonwoven web. Such fibers are usually
obtained in bales and placed in an opener/blender or picker, which
separates the fibers prior to the carding unit. Once formed, the
web may then be bonded by one or more known methods.
[0028] As used herein the term "nonwoven web or fabric" means a web
having a structure of individual fibers or threads which are
interlaid, but not in an identifiable manner as in a knitted
fabric. Nonwoven fabrics or webs have been formed from many
processes such as for example, meltblowing processes, spunbonding
processes, bonded carded web processes, etc.
[0029] "Cell" refers to a cavity defined in a foam. A cell is
closed when the cell membrane surrounding the cavity or enclosed
opening is not perforated and has all membranes intact. A cell is
open when the cell membrane is perforated or not intact.
Test Methods
Caliper (Bulk) Test Method
[0030] The caliper or thickness of a material, in millimeters, is
measured at 0.05 PSI (0.345 KPa) using a Frazier spring model
compresometer #326 bulk tester with a 2 inch (50.8 mm) diameter
circular platen or foot (Frazier Precision Instrument Corporation,
925 Sweeney Drive, Hagerstown, Md. 21740). Each type of sample is
subjected to three repetitions of testing and the results are
averaged to produce a single value.
Thermal Efficiency Factor "A"
[0031] The thermal insulation efficiency factor "A" of sleeves
according to the invention is a factor dependent on the total basis
weight of the sleeve materials. For any sleeve, the total basis
weight of the sleeve material includes the weight of the foam
layer, any skin layers, and any adhesives. An "ets" brand
environmental chamber model # 506C-6117 is set for 80% relative
humidity and 80.degree. F. A beverage container with liquid
beverage is submerged in ice for a specified period of time to
reduce the beverage temperature. The container is removed and the
initial temperature of the beverage is recorded with a digital
thermometer. The thermometer is attached to the container through
the top opening and secured with a clip, paraffin film or other
suitable means, with care being taken not to contact the bottom or
sides of the can with the thermometer. The container is placed
within the chamber as soon as possible after removal from the ice
and placement of the thermometer. The temperature is tracked as a
function of time, for example over a 30 minute time period, or
until the liquid beverage reaches an equilibrium temperature. The
change in temperature over the specified time is divided by the
total basis weight of the sleeve to determine the thermal
efficiency factor "A" as a function of basis weight.
Thermal Efficiency Factor "B"
[0032] The thermal insulation efficiency factor "B" of sleeves
according to the invention is a factor dependent on the total
weight of the sleeve. For any sleeve, the total weight includes the
weight of the foam layer, any skin layer, and any adhesives. The
factor is determined as set forth above in the discussion the
Thermal Efficiency Factor A, except that the change in temperature
over the specified time is divided by the total weight of the
sleeve.
Materials
[0033] Non-limiting examples of suitable materials that may be used
in insulating sleeves made in accordance with the invention are
presented below.
[0034] Either of the skin layers that are laminated or otherwise
attached to the foam insulation layer may include a wettable
(hydrophilic) material or a non-wettable (hydrophobic) material. A
non-wettable material may be desired in that condensation will be
drawn away from the skin layers and absorbed into the foam layer.
Suitable materials include a spunbond web, a coform web, a tissue
web, a meltblown web, a bonded carded web, film layers, and
laminates thereof. A nonwoven material can be made from various
fibers, such as synthetic or natural fibers. For instance, in one
embodiment, synthetic fibers, such as fibers made from
thermoplastic polymers, can be used to construct the skin layer of
the present invention. For example, suitable fibers could include
melt-spun filaments, staple fibers, melt-spun multi-component
filaments, and the like. These synthetic fibers or filaments used
in making the nonwoven material may have any suitable morphology
and may include hollow or solid, straight or crimped, single
component, conjugate or biconstituent fibers or filaments, and
blends or mixtures of such fibers and/or filaments, as are well
known in the art.
[0035] Synthetic fibers added to the nonwoven web can also include
staple fibers that can be added to increase the strength, bulk,
softness and smoothness of the base sheet. Staple fibers can
include, for instance, various polyolefin fibers, polyester fibers,
nylon fibers, polyvinyl acetate fibers, cotton fibers, rayon
fibers, non-woody plant fibers, and mixtures thereof.
[0036] A particularly useful material for use as an inner and outer
skin layer is a hydrophobic bonded carded web designated 336D from
BBA Nonwovens, Inc. of Simpsonville, S.C., USA, having a basis
weight of 31 gsm.
[0037] The skin layers may comprise a laminate containing two or
more webs. For instance, the web may comprise a
spunbonded/meltblown/spunbonded laminate, a spunbonded/meltblown
laminate and the like.
[0038] The outer skin layer may define a texturized surface that
presents a grip-enhancing surface to a user. The manner in which a
texturized surface is formed on a nonwoven web can vary depending
upon the particular application of the desired result. The outer
skin layer may be made from a nonwoven web that has been thermally
point unbonded to form a plurality of tufts. As used herein, a
substrate that has been "thermally point unbonded" refers to a
substrate that includes raised unbonded areas or lightly bonded
areas that form bumps or tufts surrounded by bonded regions.
[0039] Besides point unbonded materials, there are many other
methods for creating texturized surfaces on base webs and many
other texturized materials can be utilized. Examples of known
nonwoven, texturized materials, include rush transfer materials,
flocked materials, wireformed nonwovens, creped nonwovens, and the
like. Moreover, through-air bonded fibers, such as through-air
bonded bicomponent spunbond, or point unbonded materials, such as
point unbonded spunbond fibers, can be incorporated into a base web
to provide texture to the web.
[0040] In one embodiment, the texturized material can be a loop
material. As used herein, a loop material refers to a material that
has a surface that is at least partially covered by looped bristles
that can vary in height and stiffness depending upon the particular
application. Further, the looped bristles can be sparsely spaced
apart or can be densely packed together. The loop material can be
made in a number of different ways. For example, the loop can be a
woven fabric or a knitted fabric. In one embodiment, the loop
material is made by needle punching loops into a substrate. In
other embodiments, the loop material can be formed through a
hydroentangling process or can be molded, such as through an
injection molding process. Of course, any other suitable technique
known in the art for producing looped bristles can also be
used.
[0041] In certain embodiments of the insulating sleeve, the outer
skin layer may be liquid impermeable. This liquid impermeable
layer(s) can be made from liquid-impermeable plastic films, such as
polyethylene and polypropylene films. Generally, such plastic films
are impermeable to gases and water vapor, as well as liquids. In
some embodiments, breathable, liquid-impermeable barriers are
desired. As used herein, the term "breathable" means that the
barrier or film is pervious to water vapor and gases. In other
words, "breathable barriers" and "breathable films" allow water
vapor and gases to pass therethrough, but not necessarily liquids.
Various breathable, liquid-impermeable materials are well known to
those skilled in the art.
[0042] The skin layers may be elastomeric so as to accommodate
expansion of the insulating sleeve, and to provide a positive
gripping force against the sides of the beverage container. In this
regard, the skin layers may contain elastic strands or sections
uniformly or randomly distributed throughout the material.
Alternatively, the elastic component can be an elastic film or an
elastic nonwoven web. In general, any material known in the art to
possess elastomeric characteristics can be used in the present
invention as an elastomeric component. Useful elastomeric materials
can include, but are not limited to, films, foams, nonwoven
materials, etc. An elastomeric component may form an elastic
laminate with one or more other layers, such as foams, films,
apertured films, and/or nonwoven webs. The elastic laminate
generally contains layers that can be bonded together so that at
least one of the layers has the characteristics of an elastic
polymer. Examples of elastic laminates include, but are not limited
to, stretch-bonded laminates and neck-bonded laminates. In one
embodiment, the elastic member can be a neck stretched-bonded
laminate. As used herein, a neck stretched bonded laminate is
defined as a laminate made from the combination of a neck-bonded
laminate and a stretch-bonded laminate. Examples of necked
stretched bonded laminates are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,114,781 and 5,116,662, which are both incorporated herein by
reference. Of particular advantage, a neck stretch bonded laminate
is stretchable in the machine direction and in a cross machine
direction. Further, a neck stretch-bonded laminate can be made with
a nonwoven basing that is texturized. In particular, the neck
stretched bonded laminate can be made so as to include a nonwoven
facing that gathers and becomes bunched so as to form a textured
surface.
[0043] Various foam materials may be utilized as the insulating
foam layer in sleeves according to the invention. A particularly
well-suited foam is a styrene based, low-density, open-cell foam
made with balanced amounts of one or more surfactants and a
plasticizing agent in a foam polymer formula. Thermoplastic
elastomers can be added to the foam polymer formula to improve
softness, flexibility, elasticity, and resiliency of the foam
layer. The open-cell content of the foam is controlled by adjusting
the amount of surfactant and/or plasticizing agent included in the
foam polymer formulation, and in particular embodiments suited for
the present invention, the open-cell content can be at about 80% or
greater. The density of the foam is less than about 0.1 g/cc, and
desirably less than about 0.07 g/cc (before any compression is
applied to meet packaging or use requirements). This particular
type of foam is described in detail in the published U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/729881 (Publication No, 20050124709) and
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/218825 (Publication No.
20060030632), both of which are incorporated herein for all
purposes.
[0044] Another commercially available foam believed to be suitable
for use in sleeves according to the present invention is a
closed-cell polyethylene based foam from by Sealed Air Corp. of
Saddle Brook, N.J., USA, identified as product codes "CA 90" and
"CA 125." The CA 90 code has a thickness of 3/32 inches (2.38 mm),
and the CA 125 code has a thickness of 1/8 inches (0.18 mm).
[0045] In particular embodiments, the foam layer includes a
plurality of passages defined completely through the layer. These
passages may be defined by a pattern of slit apertures. A detailed
description of a slit aperturing process is provided, for example,
in U.S. Pat. No. 5,714,107, which is incorporated herein by
reference for all purposes. The passages or apertures provide the
foam layer with a desired degree of extensibility. Also, when
sealed by the skin layers, the apertures define relatively large
closed-cell formations within the foam layer that provide
additional beneficial thermal insulating characteristics
Detailed Description
[0046] Reference now will be made in detail to various embodiments
of the invention, one or more examples of which are set forth
below. Each example is provided by way of explanation, not
limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those
skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be
made in the present invention without departing from the scope or
spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or
described as part of one embodiment, may be used on another
embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is
intended that the present invention cover such modifications and
variations.
[0047] Referring to FIGS. 1A through 1C in general, an embodiment
of an insulating sleeve 10 is illustrated. The sleeve 10 is
specifically designed to encircle a beverage container, for example
the beverage can 20. It should be appreciated that the sleeves 10
according to the invention are not limited by the type, size, or
configuration of the beverage container, and may be designed to
accommodate a wide variety of conventional beverage containers. The
sleeve 10 includes a flexible shell member 12 with a side wall 18
that collapses into a flat panel configuration illustrated in FIG.
1A when not in use. The side wall 18 opens into a generally tubular
or cylindrical configuration for receipt of a beverage container
inserted into an opening 14 defined by the side wall 18, as
illustrated in FIG. 1C.
[0048] The shell member 10 may include an integrally formed bottom
panel 16 that defines a bottom wall when the sleeve 10 is opened
into the configuration of FIG. 1C. This bottom wall 16 serves to
insulate the bottom of the beverage container, and also functions
as a coaster to protect the surface upon which the container is
placed, or to prevent the container from slipping off of the
surface. Construction of collapsible insulating sleeves with the
bottom wall configuration illustrated in FIG. 1A is described in
greater detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/300791
incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
[0049] The shell member 12 includes a foam insulation layer 22.
This foam layer may be an open-cell, closed-cell, or combination of
open and closed-cell material, and is desirably one of the types of
foams described above. In particular embodiments, the foam layer 22
has a basis weight of less than about 150 gsm.
[0050] An inner circumferential skin layer 24 is applied to the
foam layer 22 at the inner circumferential surface of the foam
layer that lies adjacent to the beverage container 20. In the
illustrated embodiment, this skin layer 24 is a nonwoven material,
particularly a hydrophobic nonwoven web. A hydrophobic web may be
desired in relatively humid environments in that it tends to wick
condensation from the can to the relatively absorbent foam layer
22. In alternate embodiments, the skin layer 24 may be any one or
combination of the materials discussed above. The skin layer 24 may
be applied to the foam layer 22 by any suitable means. For example,
the skin layer 24 may be laminated to the foam layer 22, or bonded
to the foam layer 22 by conventional bonding techniques.
[0051] As discussed above, the shell member 12 comprises a total
basis weight of less than about 400.0 gsm and a thermal efficiency
factor "A" that is a function of the basis weight and is derived as
set forth above. The thermal efficiency factor "A" is at least
about 0.050. In particular embodiments, the thermal efficiency
factor "A" is at least about 0.075, and is at least about 0.090 in
still other embodiments. In certain embodiments, the insulating
sleeve may comprise a total basis weight of less than about 200.0
gsm and have a thermal efficiency factor "A" of at least about
0.090. Examples of sleeves 10 having the desired thermal efficiency
factor "A" and total basis weight combination are set forth
below.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 1A, the insulating sleeve 10 is in its
folded flat panel configuration, as it would be for packaging,
storing, and so forth. In this configuration, the sleeve 10 may
have a bulk measurement of less than about 7.0 mm, and particularly
less than about 5.0 mm in certain embodiments, or less than about
4.0 mm in certain other embodiments. The sleeve 10 may have a
single layer thickness (one layer of the shell member 12) of less
than about 4.0 mm, and more particularly less than about 3.0
mm.
[0053] In embodiments of the insulating sleeve 10 particularly
configured for conventional sized beverage cans 20, the sleeve may
have a total weight of less than about 6.0 grams, and more
particularly less than about 5.0 grams, or less than about 4.0
grams in alternate configurations.
[0054] As described, the sleeve 10 may have an additional thermal
efficiency factor "B" that is determined as a function of the total
weight of the sleeve. This thermal efficiency factor "B" is
desirably at least about 2.50. In certain embodiments, the sleeve
10 has a total weight of less than about 4.5 grams and a thermal
efficiency factor "B" of at least about 3.50. In still other
embodiments, the sleeve 10 has a total weight of less than about
5.5 grams and a thermal efficiency factor "B" of at least about
3.00. The thermal efficiency factor "B" provides a means of
comparing different sleeves that are specifically designed for the
same type of beverage container.
[0055] The insulating sleeve 10 may be extensible in order to
expand and receive a beverage container of a particular diameter.
In the illustrated embodiments of the sleeve 10, the opening 14 in
the sleeve may have an inner diameter in its relaxed state (FIG.
1B) that is less than the diameter of can 20. For example,
conventional 12 oz. beverage cans have a diameter of about 204 mm.
Sleeve 10 may have an opening 14 with a relaxed diameter of less
than 204 mm such that the sleeve must be expanded circumferentially
to be placed onto the can 20. This relationship may be desired in
that it ensures a relatively tight friction fit between the can 20
and sleeve 10. The sleeve may have a circumferential extension of
less than about 10 percent, and less than about 5 percent in
certain configurations.
[0056] To allow for expansion of the sleeve 10, the combination of
the foam layer 22 and skin layer 24 is extensible. In certain
embodiments, and in any one or combination of the foam layer and
skin layers(s), the materials may be elastic and formed by any one
or combination of the elastomeric materials discussed above. In
other embodiments, the materials may be inherently extensible to
the degree needed to place the sleeve 10 around the container 20
without tearing or otherwise compromising the integrity of the
materials.
[0057] As stated above, an elastic material or device is one
capable of stretch and recovery; that is, at a minimum an elastic
material or device is capable of being extended or elongated upon
the application of force to an extended length at least about 20
percent greater than its relaxed, original length, and is also
capable of recovering at least 30 percent of its elongation upon
release of the stretching elongating force. However, it may be
desired to provide higher levels of stretchability and/or recovery.
As an example, it may be desired to provide an insulating sleeve as
a "one size fits all" or "one size fits most" device, where a
single size insulating sleeve is capable of stretching and/or
recovering to such an extent that a variety of shapes and/or sizes
of beverage containers may be accommodated by the insulating
sleeve. In terms of extensibility or stretchability, an elastic
material or device may have greater capacity for stretch or
elongation without rupture, such as being capable of being
stretched to an extended, biased length that is at least about 50
percent greater than its relaxed, unstretched length. For some uses
or applications, it may be desirable for an elastic material or
device to be capable of being stretched without rupture to a biased
length that is at least about 100 percent greater than its
unstretched length or dimension, and for other uses it may be
desirable for the elastic material to be capable of being stretched
without rupture to a biased length that is at least 150 percent
greater, or even 200 percent (or even more) than its unstretched
length or dimension.
[0058] In terms of the level of elastic recovery, an elastic
material may additionally be capable of recovering at least about
50 percent or more of the extension length. Depending on the
desired use or application, an elastic material may desirably be
capable of recovering about 75 percent, or even about 85 percent or
more of the extension length, and for still other uses an elastic
material may desirably be capable of recovering substantially all
of the extension length. As a particular numerical example to aid
the understanding of the foregoing, for an elastic material capable
being stretched to a biased length that is 100 percent greater than
its original length and having a 75 percent recovery, if the
material has a relaxed, unstretched length of 10 centimeters, the
material may be stretched to at least 20 centimeters by a
stretching force, and upon release of the stretching force will
recover to a length of not more than 12.5 centimeters.
[0059] In the illustrated embodiments, the foam layer 22 is
rendered extensible by passages 28, such as apertures or slits,
defined completely through the foam material 30. Referring to FIGS.
1C through 1E, upon donning the sleeve 10 on a beverage container,
the apertures 28 open into relatively large cells 32, 34 to
accommodate the expansion. The inner skin layer 24 defines a wall
of the expanded cells 32, 34, and is extensible to at least a
degree necessary to accommodate this expansion. For example, the
skin layer 24 may be an extensible bonded carded web.
[0060] In the embodiment of FIGS. 1A through 1D, the sleeve 10 does
not include an outer skin layer, and the foam layer 22 is exposed
around the outer circumferential surface of the sleeve 10. Thus,
referring to FIG. 1D, the expanded cells 32 are open at the outer
circumferential surface of the sleeve 10. This configuration is
unique in that the open cells 32 define a particularly effective
grip-enhancing surface for a user. The tested samples of the sleeve
10 having only an inner skin layer 24 presented an "alligator skin"
texture to the foam layer 22. This feature may be desired in
particular embodiments, such as a marine or other recreational
environment, wherein the sleeve 10 is subjected to moisture or
other elements that would tend to render a smooth surface
slippery.
[0061] In other embodiments of sleeves 10, a second outer skin
layer 26 may be applied to the outer circumferential surface of the
foam layer 22 such that the foam layer is sandwiched between skin
layers 24, 26. This second skin layer 26 may be a hydrophobic
nonwoven material, as illustrated in FIG. 2B. A hydrophobic skin
layer 26 may be desired in that it tends to prevent condensation
from migrating out of the absorbent foam layer to the outer surface
of the sleeve. The outer skin layer 26 may be any one or
combination of the materials discussed above, and may the same
material as the inner skin layer 24, or a different material. In
embodiments wherein the sleeve member 10 is extensible, the outer
skin layer 26 is also extensible to accommodate expansion of the
foam layer 22.
[0062] The outer skin layer 26 may be provided with a texturized
surface to provide a grip-enhancing surface for the user. Any one
or combination of the texturized materials discussed above may be
utilized for this purpose.
[0063] Referring to FIG. 1E, the presence of the outer skin layer
26 results in the expanded cells 34 in the foam material 30
becoming closed-cells. These relatively large closed-cells 34
provide an enhanced thermal insulating benefit to the sleeve
10.
[0064] The present invention may be better understood with
reference to the following examples.
EXAMPLE 1
[0065] Various samples of insulating sleeves according to the
invention were produced and compared to conventional beverage can
insulating sleeves. The inventive sleeves and comparative sleeves
had the following characteristics:
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Total Basis Density Total Single Weight of
of Weight of Layer Sleeve Sleeve Whole Sleeve Thickness Material
Material Sleeve Sample (g) (mm) (gsm) (g/cc) Bulk (mm) Comp A 16.3
5.6 729.9 1.31 -- Comp B 25.1 3.5 1262.9 3.60 -- Comp C 10.5 4.4
458.8 1.04 -- Sample 1 3.9 2.0 191.0 0.98 3.57 Sample 2 3.8 2.0
189.0 0.97 3.63 Sample 3 3.9 2.0 191.0 0.98 3.97 Sample 4 4.9 2.2
240.6 1.08 4.45 Sample 5 4.8 2.3 236.1 1.04 4.68 Sample 6 4.9 2.3
244.1 1.07 4.71
[0066] Comparative examples A through C were various commercially
available, collapsible, neoprene beverage can sleeves.
[0067] Samples 1 through 3 were sleeves according to the invention
having the configuration of FIG. 1A, and with an apertured foam
layer. This foam was the low density, open-cell styrene based film
described in the U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 10/729881 and
11/218825 cited above, with a basis weight of about 160 gsm, an
open-cell content of at least 80%, and a thickness of between 2.032
and 2.54 mm. The apertures were 1/4 inch slits having an aperture
density of 3.6 per cm.sup.2. Samples 1 through 3 included a 31 gsm
hydrophobic bonded carded web as an inner skin layer laminated to
the foam layer with an adhesive add-on level of from 2 gsm to 5
gsm. Samples 1 through 3 did not include an outer skin layer.
[0068] Samples 4 through 6 were identical to Samples 1 through 3,
but included an outer skin layer of the same bonded carded web
material and adhesive add-on levels.
[0069] The Comparative examples and Sample specimens were tested to
determine the Thermal Efficiency Factors "A" and "B" as set fort in
the Test Method described above. The beverage containers (and
beverage) used in the tests were 12 oz. cans of Coke.RTM.. Once the
cans were removed from the ice bath and applied with the insulating
sleeves, the temperature of the beverage was recorded every 3-4
minutes over a period of 30 minutes. Control samples of uninsulated
cans were also tested. The results are set forth below:
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Total Basis Weight Weight Delta of of
Temperature Thermal Thermal Sleeve Sleeve Over 30 mins. Efficiency
Efficiency Sample (g) (gsm) (.degree. F.) Factor "A" Factor "B"
Control I -- -- 31.4 -- -- Control II -- -- 29.3 -- -- Control III
-- -- 28.8 -- -- Comp A 16.3 729.9 20 .027 1.23 Comp B 25.1 1262.9
16.2 .013 0.65 Comp C 10.5 458.8 19.3 .042 1.84 Sample 1 3.9 191.0
19 .099 4.87 Sample 2 3.8 189.0 18 .095 4.74 Sample 6 4.9 244.1 16
.066 3.27
[0070] While the invention has been described in detail with
respect to the specific embodiments thereof, it will be appreciated
that those skilled in the art, upon attaining an understanding of
the foregoing, may readily conceive of alterations to, variations
of, and equivalents to these embodiments. Accordingly, the scope of
the present invention should be assessed as that of the appended
claims and any equivalents thereto.
* * * * *