U.S. patent application number 12/887764 was filed with the patent office on 2011-04-28 for easy open package with discrete laminate with die-cut.
This patent application is currently assigned to CRYOVAC, INC.. Invention is credited to Andrew W. Moehlenbrock.
Application Number | 20110097023 12/887764 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43898505 |
Filed Date | 2011-04-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110097023 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Moehlenbrock; Andrew W. |
April 28, 2011 |
Easy Open Package with Discrete Laminate with Die-Cut
Abstract
An easy-open package includes a pouch including a discrete
laminate including a base strip and a panel section having a die
cut, the panel section sealed to the base strip; at least one of
the base strip and the panel section anchored to a first side
panel; and a product in the pouch.
Inventors: |
Moehlenbrock; Andrew W.;
(Simpsonville, SC) |
Assignee: |
CRYOVAC, INC.
Duncan
SC
|
Family ID: |
43898505 |
Appl. No.: |
12/887764 |
Filed: |
September 22, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61279555 |
Oct 22, 2009 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
383/116 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B32B 27/365 20130101;
B32B 27/32 20130101; B32B 2439/70 20130101; B32B 27/34 20130101;
B65B 9/06 20130101; B32B 2307/518 20130101; B32B 7/12 20130101;
B65D 75/5833 20130101; B32B 25/14 20130101; B32B 27/08 20130101;
B65B 61/18 20130101; B32B 7/05 20190101; B32B 25/08 20130101; B32B
2307/748 20130101; B65B 43/04 20130101; B32B 27/306 20130101; B32B
27/36 20130101; B32B 2307/7244 20130101; B32B 2439/46 20130101;
B32B 27/304 20130101; B65D 75/5844 20130101; B32B 2270/00 20130101;
B32B 2307/31 20130101; B65B 5/022 20130101; B65B 9/20 20130101;
B65D 75/5855 20130101; B65D 77/2028 20130101; B32B 27/285
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
383/116 |
International
Class: |
B65D 30/08 20060101
B65D030/08 |
Claims
1. An easy-open package comprising: a) a pouch comprising i) a
first and second side panel each comprising an outer and inner
surface, a first and second side edge, and a first and second end,
the first and second side panels joined together along their
respective first and second side edges with a seal; ii) a first
end; iii) a second end defined by the second ends of the first and
second side panels respectively; and iv) a discrete laminate having
a first and second end, the discrete laminate comprising (a) a base
strip comprising a first and second surface, a first and second
side edge, and a first and second end, the first and second
surfaces of the base strip each comprising a sealant, (b) a panel
section comprising an outer and inner surface, a first and second
side edge, and a first and second end, the inner surface comprising
a sealant, wherein a first portion of the first surface of the base
strip is sealed to a first part of the inner surface of the panel
section, the first end of the panel section is joined to the second
side panel, the panel section and the second side panel are joined
together along their respective first and second side edges with a
seal, the first end of the panel section extends beyond the first
end of the base strip, and (c) a die cut disposed in the panel
section; wherein at least one of the base strip and the panel
section is anchored to the first side panel; and b) a product
disposed in the pouch.
2. The easy-open package of claim 1 wherein the inner surface of
the panel section comprises an easy-open sealant.
3. The easy-open package of claim 1 wherein the first surface of
the base strip comprises an easy-open sealant.
4. The easy-open package of claim 1 wherein a first portion of the
die cut is a through-cut, and a second portion of the die cut is a
score.
5. The easy-open package of claim 1 wherein the second surface of
the base strip comprises an easy-open sealant.
6. The package of claim 1 wherein a second part of the outer
surface of the panel section is anchored to the inner surface of
the first side panel.
7. The package of claim 1 wherein a second portion of the first
surface of the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the
first side panel.
8. The package of claim 1 wherein a second portion of the first
surface of the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the
first side panel, and a second part of the inner surface of the
panel section is anchored to the outer surface of the first side
panel.
9. The package of claim 1 wherein a second part of the inner
surface of the panel section is anchored to the outer surface of
the first side panel.
10. The package of claim 1 wherein a second portion of the second
surface of the base strip is anchored to the outer surface of the
first side panel.
11. The package of claim 1 wherein the first end of the panel
section, and the first end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a seal.
12. The package of claim 1 wherein the second end of the first side
panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a seal.
13. The package of claim 1 wherein the second end of the first side
panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a fold.
14. The package of claim 1 wherein the second end of the base strip
extends beyond the second end of the panel section.
15. The package of claim 1 wherein the second end of the panel
section extends beyond the second end of the base strip.
16. The package of claim 1 wherein the second end of the panel
section is co-extensive with the second end of the base strip.
17. The package of claim 1 wherein the die cut is a closed
loop.
18. The package of claim 1 wherein the package is absent any
zipper.
19. The package of claim 1 wherein the package is absent a
repositionable adhesive between the base strip and the panel
section.
20. The package of claim 1 wherein the package can be opened with a
peel force of from 25 grams/inch to 5 pounds/inch.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/279,555, filed Oct. 22, 2009, that application
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to an easy-open package with a
discrete laminate with a die-cut, and to methods of making the
package.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Food and non-food products, including produce, snack foods,
cheese, meat, and the like have long been packaged in containers
such as pouches, bags, or lidded trays or formed webs made from
various thermoplastic materials such as polyethylene,
polypropylene, or polyester (PET). These containers can be formed
from a web or webs of thermoplastic material on packaging
equipment, using various packaging processes, at a
processing/packaging facility. Such equipment and processes
includes horizontal form/fill/seal (HFFS), vertical form/fill/seal
(VFFS), thermoforming/lidstock, and continuous horizontal packaging
(sometimes referred to as Flow-wrap). In each case, the product is
manually or automatically placed in a pouch, bag, formed web, tray,
etc., the filled container is optionally vacuumized or gas flushed,
and the mouth of the container is hermetically or non-hermetically
sealed to close and finish the package.
[0004] Opening of the finished package (i.e. opening with the use
of tools such as scissors or knives) can provide access to the
product by the consumer.
[0005] Common in the industry is the use of plastic zipper
closures; press-to-close or slide zippers; interlocking closures;
reclosable fasteners with interlockable fastener elements;
interlocking rib and groove elements having male and female
profiles; interlocking alternating hook-shaped closure members, and
the like. These terms appear in the patent literature, and to some
extent may overlap in meaning. These features in some cases may
provide an easy-open feature to the package.
[0006] There is need in the marketplace for a package, and methods
of packaging that can be used in a manner that requires little or
no modification to the packager's packaging equipment, while
providing a manually (i.e. by hand, without the need for tools such
as scissors or knives) openable feature, optionally while
maintaining hermeticity of the package when made, and without the
use of plastic zipper closures; press-to-close or slide zippers;
interlocking closures; reclosable fasteners with interlockable
fastener elements; interlocking rib and groove elements having male
and female profiles; interlocking alternating hook-shaped closure
members, and the like.
[0007] Some retail packages currently do not offer an easy-open
feature. Examples are some produce bags and snack food bags. In the
produce market, there is a need for a cost-effective way to
manually open retail produce bags, e.g. a package made in HFFS,
VFFS, thermoforming/lidstock, or continuous horizontal packaging
processes.
[0008] The present invention relates to a package, and methods of
making the package, which package is manually openable, and adapted
to package non-food products, as well as food products such as e.g.
produce, snack foods, cheese, meat, luncheon meat, sausage,
culinary nuts, trail mix, etc. The package optionally maintains a
hermetic seal until the package is opened.
[0009] There is also a need in the marketplace for a discrete
laminate that can be anchored to a processor's packaging material
of choice to provide easy-open functionality to a package made from
that web/laminate combination with only relatively minor
modifications to the processor's packaging material, packaging
process or equipment.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Statement of Invention/Embodiments of the Invention
[0010] In a first aspect, an easy-open package comprises: a pouch
comprising [0011] a first and second side panel each comprising an
outer and inner surface, a first and second side edge, and a first
and second end, the first and second side panels joined together
along their respective first and second side edges with a seal;
[0012] a first end; [0013] a second end defined by the second ends
of the first and second side panels respectively; and [0014] a
discrete laminate having a first and second end, the discrete
laminate comprising [0015] a base strip comprising a first and
second surface, a first and second side edge, and a first and
second end, the first and second surfaces of the base strip each
comprising a sealant, [0016] a panel section comprising an outer
and inner surface, a first and second side edge, and a first and
second end, the inner surface comprising a sealant, [0017] wherein
[0018] a first portion of the first surface of the base strip is
sealed to a first part of the inner surface of the panel section,
[0019] the first end of the panel section is joined to the second
side panel, [0020] the panel section and the second side panel are
joined together along their respective first and second side edges
with a seal, [0021] the first end of the panel section extends
beyond the first end of the base strip, and [0022] a die cut
disposed in the panel section; [0023] wherein at least one of the
base strip and the panel section is anchored to [0024] the first
side panel; and [0025] a product disposed in the pouch.
[0026] Optionally, according to various embodiments of the first
aspect of the invention: [0027] the inner surface of the panel
section comprises an easy-open sealant. [0028] the first surface of
the base strip comprises an easy-open sealant. [0029] a first
portion of the die cut is a through-cut, and a second portion of
the die cut is a score. [0030] the second surface of the base strip
comprises an easy-open sealant. [0031] the outer surface of the
panel section comprises a sealant. [0032] a second part of the
outer surface of the panel section is anchored to the inner surface
of the first side panel. [0033] a second portion of the first
surface of the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the
first side panel. [0034] a second portion of the first surface of
the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of [0035] the first
side panel, and a second part of the inner surface of the panel
section is anchored to the outer surface of the first side panel.
[0036] a second part of the inner surface of the panel section is
anchored to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0037] a
second portion of the second surface of the base strip is anchored
to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0038] the first end
of the panel section, and the first end of the second side panel,
are joined together with a seal. [0039] the second end of the first
side panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a seal. [0040] the second end of the first side
panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a fold. [0041] the second end of the base strip
extends beyond the second end of the panel section. [0042] the
second end of the panel section extends beyond the second end of
the base strip. [0043] the second end of the panel section is
co-extensive with the second end of the base strip. [0044] the die
cut is a closed loop. [0045] the package is absent any zipper.
[0046] the package is absent a repositionable adhesive between the
base strip and the panel section. [0047] the package can be opened
with a peel force of from 25 grams/inch to 5 pounds/inch.
[0048] In a second aspect, an easy-open package comprises a pouch
comprising a folded web comprising an exterior surface and an
interior surface, and a first edge and a second edge, [0049] a
first transverse seal at a first end of the folded web, [0050] a
second transverse seal at a second end of the folded web, and
[0051] a longitudinal seal extending along the length of the folded
web; [0052] a discrete laminate comprising [0053] a base strip
comprising a first and second surface, each of the first and second
surfaces comprising a sealant, [0054] a panel section comprising an
outer and inner surface, a first and second side edge, and a first
and second end, the inner surface comprising a sealant, wherein a
first portion of the first surface of the base strip is sealed to a
first part of the inner surface of the panel section; and [0055] a
die cut disposed in the panel section; [0056] wherein the discrete
laminate is sealed at the longitudinal seal to the folded web;
[0057] wherein the first end of the panel section extends beyond
the first end of the base strip; and [0058] wherein at least one of
the base strip and the panel section is anchored to the interior
surface of the folded web; and [0059] a product disposed in the
pouch.
[0060] Optionally, according to various embodiments of the second
aspect of the invention: [0061] the inner surface of the panel
section comprises an easy-open sealant. [0062] the first surface of
the base strip comprises an easy-open sealant. [0063] a first
portion of the die cut is a through-cut, and a second portion of
the die cut is a score. [0064] the second surface of the base strip
comprising an easy-open sealant. [0065] the outer surface of the
panel section comprises a sealant. [0066] a second part of the
outer surface of the panel section is anchored to the interior
surface of the folded web. [0067] a second portion of the first
surface of the base strip is anchored to the interior surface of
the folded web. [0068] a second portion of the first surface of the
base strip is anchored to the interior surface of the folded web,
and a second part of the inner surface of the panel section is
anchored to the exterior surface of the folded web. [0069] a second
part of the inner surface of the panel section is anchored to the
exterior surface of the folded web. [0070] a second portion of the
second surface of the base strip is anchored to the exterior
surface of the folded web. [0071] the second end of the base strip
extends beyond the second end of the panel section. [0072] the
second end of the panel section extends beyond the second end of
the base strip. [0073] the second end of the panel section is
co-extensive with the second end of the base strip. [0074] the die
cut is a closed loop. [0075] the package is absent any zipper.
[0076] the package is absent a repositionable adhesive between the
base strip and the panel section.
[0077] the package can be opened with a peel force of from 25
grams/inch to 5 pounds/inch.
[0078] In a third aspect, a method of making an easy-open package
in a horizontal form/fill/seal process comprises [0079] providing a
lay-flat web comprising a first and second surface; [0080]
providing a discrete laminate having a first and second end, the
discrete laminate comprising [0081] a base strip comprising a first
and second surface, a first and second side edge, and a first and
second end, the first and second surfaces of the base strip each
comprising a sealant, [0082] a panel section comprising an outer
and inner surface, a first and second side edge, and a first and
second end, the inner surface comprising a sealant, wherein a first
portion of the first surface of the base strip is sealed to a first
part of the inner surface of the panel section, and [0083] a die
cut disposed in the panel section; [0084] advancing the lay-flat
web to a forming device to convert the lay-flat web to a folded
web; [0085] advancing the discrete laminate such that when the
package is made, the discrete laminate is part of the package;
[0086] making side seals in the folded web and the discrete
laminate; [0087] cutting the folded web and the discrete laminate
to produce an open pouch comprising [0088] a first and second side
panel each comprising an outer and inner surface, a first and
second side edge, and a first and second end, the first and second
side panels joined together along their respective first and second
side edges by a seal, the panel section and second side panel
joined along their respective first and second side edges by a
seal, the first end of the panel section joined to the second side
panel, and the first end of the panel section extending beyond the
first end of the base strip; [0089] putting a product in the open
pouch; and [0090] sealing a first end of the pouch to close the
pouch; [0091] wherein, at any time before or during putting a
product in the open pouch, at least one of the base strip and the
panel section is anchored to the lay-flat web, the folded web, or
the first side panel.
[0092] Optionally, according to various embodiments of the third
aspect of the invention: [0093] the inner surface of the panel
section comprises an easy-open sealant. [0094] the first surface of
the base strip comprises an easy-open sealant. [0095] a first
portion of the die cut is a through-cut, and a second portion of
the die cut is a score. [0096] the second surface of the base strip
comprises an easy-open sealant. [0097] the outer surface of the
panel section comprises a sealant. [0098] a second part of the
outer surface of the panel section is anchored to the inner surface
of the first side panel. [0099] a second portion of the first
surface of the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the
first side panel. [0100] a second portion of the first surface of
the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the first side
panel, and a second part of the inner surface of the panel section
is anchored to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0101] a
second part of the inner surface of the panel section is anchored
to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0102] a second
portion of the second surface of the base strip is anchored to the
outer surface of the first side panel. [0103] the first end of the
panel section, and the first end of the second side panel, are
joined together with a seal. [0104] the second end of the first
side panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a seal. [0105] the second end of the first side
panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a fold. [0106] the second end of the base strip
extends beyond the second end of the panel section. [0107] the
second end of the panel section extends beyond the second end of
the base strip. [0108] the second end of the panel section is
co-extensive with the second end of the base strip. [0109] the die
cut is a closed loop. [0110] the package is absent any zipper.
[0111] the package is absent a repositionable adhesive between the
base strip and the panel section. [0112] the package can be opened
with a peel force of from 25 grams/inch to 5 pounds/inch.
[0113] In a fourth aspect, a method of making an easy-open package
in a horizontal form/fill/seal process comprises [0114] providing a
lay-flat web comprising a first and second surface; [0115]
providing a discrete laminate having a first and second end, the
discrete laminate comprising [0116] a base strip comprising a first
and second surface, a first and second side edge, and a first and
second end, the first and second surfaces of the base strip each
comprising a sealant, [0117] a panel section comprising an outer
and inner surface, a first and second side edge, and a first and
second end, the inner surface comprising a sealant, wherein a first
portion of the first surface of the base strip is sealed to a first
part of the inner surface of the panel section, and [0118] a die
cut disposed in the panel section; [0119] wherein at least one of
the base strip and the panel section is anchored to the lay-flat
web; [0120] advancing the lay-flat web with the discrete laminate
to a forming device to convert the lay-flat web to a folded web;
[0121] making side seals in the folded web and the discrete
laminate; [0122] cutting the folded web and the discrete laminate
to produce an open pouch comprising a first and second side panel
each comprising an outer and inner surface, first and second side
edges, and a first and second end, the first and second side panels
joined together along their respective first and second side edges
by a seal, the panel section and second side panel joined along
their respective first and second side edges by a seal, the first
end of the panel section joined to the second side panel, the first
end of the panel section extending beyond the first end of the base
strip, and at least one of the base strip and the panel section
anchored to the first side panel; [0123] putting a product in the
open pouch; and [0124] sealing a first end of the pouch to close
the pouch.
[0125] Optionally, according to various embodiments of the fourth
aspect of the invention: [0126] the inner surface of the panel
section comprises an easy-open sealant. [0127] the first surface of
the base strip comprises an easy-open sealant. [0128] a first
portion of the die cut is a through-cut, and a second portion of
the die cut is a score. [0129] the second surface of the base strip
comprises an easy-open sealant. [0130] the outer surface of the
panel section comprises a sealant. [0131] a second part of the
outer surface of the panel section is anchored to the inner surface
of the first side panel. [0132] a second portion of the first
surface of the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the
first side panel. [0133] a second portion of the first surface of
the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the first side
panel, and a second part of the inner surface of the panel section
is anchored to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0134] a
second part of the inner surface of the panel section is anchored
to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0135] a second
portion of the second surface of the base strip is anchored to the
outer surface of the first side panel. [0136] the first end of the
panel section, and the first end of the second side panel, are
joined together with a seal. [0137] the second end of the first
side panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a seal. [0138] the second end of the first side
panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a fold. [0139] the second end of the base strip
extends beyond the second end of the panel section. [0140] the
second end of the panel section extends beyond the second end of
the base strip. [0141] the second end of the panel section is
co-extensive with the second end of the base strip. [0142] the die
cut is a closed loop. [0143] the package is absent any zipper.
[0144] the package is absent a repositionable adhesive between the
base strip and the panel section. [0145] the package can be opened
with a peel force of from 25 grams/inch to 5 pounds/inch.
[0146] In a fifth aspect, a method of making an easy-open package
in a vertical form/fill/seal process comprises [0147] providing a
lay-flat web comprising a first and second surface; [0148]
providing a discrete laminate comprising [0149] a base strip
comprising a first and second surface, a first and second side
edge, and a first and second end, the first and second surfaces of
the base strip each comprising a sealant, [0150] a panel section
comprising an outer and inner surface, a first and second side
edge, and a first and second end, the inner surface comprising a
sealant, wherein a first portion of the first surface of the base
strip is sealed to a first part of the inner surface of the panel
section, and [0151] a die cut disposed in the panel section;
advancing the lay-flat web over a forming device to convert the
lay-flat web to a folded web; [0152] advancing the discrete
laminate such that when the package is made, the discrete laminate
is part of the package; [0153] making a longitudinal seal in the
folded web and the discrete laminate; [0154] transversely sealing
the folded web and the discrete laminate to produce a first
transverse seal to define a first pouch, wherein the first
transverse seal is a bottom transverse seal of the first pouch;
[0155] putting a product in the first pouch; [0156] advancing the
folded web and the discrete laminate, with the first pouch,
downward a predetermined distance; [0157] transversely sealing the
first pouch to produce a top transverse seal in the first pouch,
and a bottom transverse seal in a second pouch, the second pouch
disposed above the first pouch; and [0158] transversely cutting the
folded web and the discrete laminate to separate the first pouch
from the second pouch to make a package, the package comprising a
first and second side panel each comprising an outer and inner
surface, first and second side edges, and a first and second end,
the first and second side panels joined together along their
respective first and second side edges, the panel section and
second side panel joined along their respective first and second
side edges, and the first end of the panel section extending beyond
the first end of the base strip; at least one of the base strip and
the panel section anchored to the first side panel; [0159] wherein,
at any time before or during the step of making the longitudinal
seal, at least one of the base strip and the panel section is
anchored to the lay-flat web or the folded web.
[0160] Optionally, according to various embodiments of the fifth
aspect of the invention: [0161] the inner surface of the panel
section comprises an easy-open sealant. [0162] the first surface of
the base strip comprises an easy-open sealant. [0163] a first
portion of the die cut is a through-cut, and a second portion of
the die cut is a score. [0164] the second surface of the base strip
comprises an easy-open sealant. [0165] the outer surface of the
panel section comprises a sealant. [0166] a second part of the
outer surface of the panel section is anchored to the inner surface
of the first side panel. [0167] a second portion of the first
surface of the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the
first side panel. [0168] a second portion of the first surface of
the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the first side
panel, and a second part of the inner surface of the panel section
is anchored to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0169] a
second part of the inner surface of the panel section is anchored
to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0170] a second
portion of the second surface of the base strip is anchored to the
outer surface of the first side panel. [0171] the first end of the
panel section, and the first end of the second side panel, are
joined together with a seal. [0172] the second end of the first
side panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a seal. [0173] the second end of the first side
panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a fold. [0174] the second end of the base strip
extends beyond the second end of the panel section. [0175] the
second end of the panel section extends beyond the second end of
the base strip. [0176] the second end of the panel section is
co-extensive with the second end of the base strip. [0177] the die
cut is a closed loop. [0178] the package is absent any zipper.
[0179] the package is absent a repositionable adhesive between the
base strip and the panel section. [0180] the package can be opened
with a peel force of from 25 grams/inch to 5 pounds/inch.
[0181] In a sixth aspect, a method of making an easy-open package
in a vertical form/fill/seal process comprises [0182] providing a
lay-flat web comprising a first and second surface; [0183]
providing a discrete laminate comprising [0184] a base strip
comprising a first and second surface, a first and second side
edge, and a first and second end, the first and second surfaces of
the base strip each comprising a sealant, [0185] a panel section
comprising an outer and inner surface, a first and second side
edge, and a first and second end, the inner surface comprising a
sealant, wherein a first portion of the first surface of the base
strip is sealed to the inner surface of the panel section, and
[0186] a die cut disposed in the panel section; [0187] wherein at
least one of the base strip and the panel sections anchored to the
lay-flat web; [0188] advancing the lay-flat web with the discrete
laminate over a forming device to convert the lay-flat web to a
folded web; [0189] making a longitudinal seal in the folded web and
the discrete laminate; [0190] transversely sealing the folded web
and the discrete laminate to produce a first transverse seal to
define a first pouch, wherein the first transverse seal is a bottom
transverse seal of the first pouch; [0191] putting a product in the
first pouch; [0192] advancing the folded web and the discrete
laminate, with the first pouch, downward a predetermined distance;
[0193] transversely sealing the first pouch to produce a top
transverse seal in the first pouch, and a bottom transverse seal in
a second pouch, the second pouch disposed above the first pouch;
and [0194] transversely cutting the folded web and discrete
laminate to separate the first pouch from the second pouch to make
a package, the package comprising a first and second side panel
each comprising an outer and inner surface, first and second side
edges, and a first and second end, the first and second side panels
joined together along their respective first and second side edges,
the panel section and second side panel joined along their
respective first and second side edges, and the first end of the
panel section extending beyond the first end of the base strip; at
least one of the base strip and the panel section anchored to the
first side panel.
[0195] Optionally, according to various embodiments of the sixth
aspect of the invention: [0196] the inner surface of the panel
section comprises an easy-open sealant. [0197] the first surface of
the base strip comprises an easy-open sealant. [0198] a first
portion of the die cut is a through-cut, and a second portion of
the die cut is a score. [0199] the second surface of the base strip
comprises an easy-open sealant. [0200] the outer surface of the
panel section comprises a sealant. [0201] a second part of the
outer surface of the panel section is anchored to the inner surface
of the first side panel. [0202] a second portion of the first
surface of the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the
first side panel. [0203] a second portion of the first surface of
the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the first side
panel, and a second part of the inner surface of the panel section
is anchored to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0204] a
second part of the inner surface of the panel section is anchored
to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0205] a second
portion of the second surface of the base strip is anchored to the
outer surface of the first side panel. [0206] the first end of the
panel section, and the first end of the second side panel, are
joined together with a seal. [0207] the second end of the first
side panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a seal. [0208] the second end of the first side
panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a fold. [0209] the second end of the base strip
extends beyond the second end of the panel section. [0210] the
second end of the panel section extends beyond the second end of
the base strip. [0211] the second end of the panel section is
co-extensive with the second end of the base strip. [0212] the die
cut is a closed loop. [0213] the package is absent any zipper.
[0214] the package is absent a repositionable adhesive between the
base strip and the panel section. [0215] the package can be opened
with a peel force of from 25 grams/inch to 5 pounds/inch.
[0216] In a seventh aspect, a method of making an easy-open package
having a formed web comprises [0217] providing a formed web having
a first and second end, and a product cavity; [0218] providing a
product; [0219] providing a lidstock, having a first and second
end, comprising [0220] a lay-flat web comprising an outer and inner
surface, and [0221] a discrete laminate comprising [0222] a base
strip comprising a first and second surface, a first and second
side edge, and a first and second end, the first and second
surfaces of the base strip each comprising a sealant, [0223] a
panel section comprising an outer and inner surface, a first and
second side edge, and a first and second end, the inner surface
comprising a sealant, wherein a first portion of the first surface
of the base strip is sealed to the inner surface of the panel
section, the first end of the panel section extending beyond the
first end of the base strip; and [0224] a die cut disposed in the
panel section; [0225] placing the product in the product cavity;
[0226] sealing the inner surface of the lidstock to the formed web;
and [0227] cutting the lidstock and formed web to make the package,
[0228] wherein, at any time before or during the step of sealing
the inner surface of the lidstock to the formed web, at least one
of the base strip and the panel section is anchored to the lay-flat
web.
[0229] Optionally, according to various embodiments of the seventh
aspect of the invention: [0230] the inner surface of the panel
section comprises an easy-open sealant. [0231] the first surface of
the base strip comprises an easy-open sealant. [0232] a first
portion of the die cut is a through-cut, and a second portion of
the die cut is a score. [0233] the second surface of the base strip
comprises an easy-open sealant. [0234] the outer surface of the
panel section comprises a sealant. [0235] a second part of the
outer surface of the panel section is anchored to the inner surface
of the lay-flat web. [0236] a second portion of the first surface
of the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the lay-flat
web. [0237] a second portion of the first surface of the base strip
is anchored to the inner surface of the lay-flat web, and a second
part of the inner surface of the panel section is anchored to the
outer surface of the lay-flat web. [0238] a second part of the
inner surface of the panel section is anchored to the outer surface
of the lay-flat web. [0239] a second portion of the second surface
of the base strip is anchored to the outer surface of the lay-flat
web. [0240] the second end of the base strip extends beyond the
second end of the panel section. [0241] the second end of the panel
section extends beyond the second end of the base strip. [0242] the
second end of the panel section is co-extensive with the second end
of the base strip. [0243] the die cut is a closed loop. [0244] the
package is absent any zipper. [0245] the package is absent a
repositionable adhesive between the base strip and the panel
section. [0246] the package can be opened with a peel force of from
25 grams/inch to 5 pounds/inch.
[0247] In an eighth aspect, a method of making an easy-open package
having a formed web comprises [0248] providing a formed web having
a first and second end, and a product cavity; [0249] providing a
product; [0250] providing a lidstock, having a first and second
end, comprising [0251] a lay-flat web comprising an outer and inner
surface, and [0252] a discrete laminate comprising [0253] a base
strip comprising a first and second surface, a first and second
side edge, and a first and second end, the first and second
surfaces of the base strip each comprising a sealant, [0254] a
panel section comprising an outer and inner surface, a first and
second side edge, and a first and second end, the inner surface
comprising a sealant, wherein a first portion of the first surface
of the base strip is sealed to the inner surface of the panel
section, the first end of the panel section extending beyond the
first end of the base strip; and [0255] a die cut disposed in the
panel section; [0256] wherein at least one of the base strip and
the panel section is anchored to the lay-flat web; [0257] placing
the product in the product cavity; [0258] sealing the lidstock to
the inner surface of the formed web; and [0259] cutting the
lidstock and formed web to make the package.
[0260] Optionally, according to various embodiments of the eighth
aspect of the invention: [0261] the inner surface of the panel
section comprises an easy-open sealant. [0262] the first surface of
the base strip comprises an easy-open sealant. [0263] a first
portion of the die cut is a through-cut, and a second portion of
the die cut is a score. [0264] the second surface of the base strip
comprises an easy-open sealant. [0265] the outer surface of the
panel section comprises a sealant. [0266] a second part of the
outer surface of the panel section is anchored to the inner surface
of the lay-flat web. [0267] a second portion of the first surface
of the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the lay-flat
web. [0268] a second portion of the first surface of the base strip
is anchored to the inner surface of the lay-flat web, and a second
part of the inner surface of the panel section is anchored to the
outer surface of the lay-flat web. [0269] a second part of the
inner surface of the panel section is anchored to the outer surface
of the lay-flat web. [0270] a second portion of the second surface
of the base strip is anchored to the outer surface of the lay-flat
web. [0271] the second end of the base strip extends beyond the
second end of the panel section. [0272] the second end of the panel
section extends beyond the second end of the base strip. [0273] the
second end of the panel section is co-extensive with the second end
of the base strip. [0274] the die cut is a closed loop. [0275] the
package is absent any zipper. [0276] the package is absent a
repositionable adhesive between the base strip and the panel
section. [0277] the package can be opened with a peel force of from
25 grams/inch to 5 pounds/inch.
[0278] In a ninth aspect, a method of making an easy-open package
in a continuous horizontal packaging process comprises [0279]
providing a lay-flat web comprising a first and second surface;
[0280] providing a discrete laminate comprising [0281] a base strip
comprising a first and second surface, a first and second side
edge, and a first and second end, the first and second surfaces of
the base strip each comprising a sealant, [0282] a panel section
comprising an outer and inner surface, a first and second side
edge, and a first and second end, the inner surface comprising a
sealant, wherein a first portion of the first surface of the base
strip is sealed to a first part of the inner surface of the panel
section, and [0283] a die cut disposed in the panel section; [0284]
advancing the lay-flat web to a forming device to convert the
lay-flat web to a folded web having an inner surface; [0285]
advancing the discrete laminate such that when the package is made,
the discrete laminate is part of the package; [0286] advancing a
product to the forming device such that the folded web and the
discrete laminate envelope the product; [0287] making a
longitudinal seal in the folded web and the discrete laminate;
[0288] transversely sealing the folded web and the discrete
laminate, with the product therein, to produce a leading transverse
seal to define a first pouch; [0289] advancing the folded web and
the discrete laminate, with the leading transverse seal, forward a
predetermined distance; [0290] transversely sealing the first pouch
to produce a trailing transverse seal in the first pouch, and a
leading transverse seal in a second pouch, the second pouch
disposed upstream of the first pouch; and [0291] transversely
cutting the folded web and the discrete laminate to separate the
first pouch from the second pouch to make a package, the package
comprising a first and second side panel each comprising an outer
and inner surface, first and second side edges, and a first and
second end, the first and second side panels joined together along
their respective first and second side edges, the panel section and
second side panel joined along their respective first and second
side edges, and the first end of the panel section extending beyond
the first end of the base strip; the discrete laminate anchored to
the first side panel; [0292] wherein, at any time before or during
the step of making the longitudinal seal, at least one of the base
strip and the panel sections anchored to the lay-flat web or the
folded web.
[0293] Optionally, according to various embodiments of the ninth
aspect of the invention: [0294] the inner surface of the panel
section comprises an easy-open sealant. [0295] the first surface of
the base strip comprises an easy-open sealant. [0296] a first
portion of the die cut is a through-cut, and a second portion of
the die cut is a score. [0297] the second surface of the base strip
comprises an easy-open sealant. [0298] the outer surface of the
panel section comprises a sealant. [0299] a second part of the
outer surface of the panel section is anchored to the inner surface
of the first side panel. [0300] a second portion of the first
surface of the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the
first side panel. [0301] a second portion of the first surface of
the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the first side
panel, and a second part of the inner surface of the panel section
is anchored to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0302] a
second part of the inner surface of the panel section is anchored
to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0303] a second
portion of the second surface of the base strip is anchored to the
outer surface of the first side panel. [0304] the first end of the
panel section, and the first end of the second side panel, are
joined together with a seal. [0305] the second end of the first
side panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a seal. [0306] the second end of the first side
panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a fold. [0307] the second end of the base strip
extends beyond the second end of the panel section. [0308] the
second end of the panel section extends beyond the second end of
the base strip. [0309] the second end of the panel section is
co-extensive with the second end of the base strip. [0310] the die
cut is a closed loop. [0311] the package is absent any zipper.
[0312] the package is absent a repositionable adhesive between the
base strip and the panel section. [0313] the package can be opened
with a peel force of from 25 grams/inch to 5 pounds/inch.
[0314] In a tenth aspect, a method of making an easy-open package
in a continuous horizontal packaging process comprises [0315]
providing a lay-flat web comprising a first and second surface;
[0316] providing a discrete laminate comprising [0317] a base strip
comprising a first and second surface, a first and second side
edge, and a first and second end, the first and second surfaces of
the base strip each comprising a sealant, [0318] a panel section
comprising an outer and inner surface, a first and second side
edge, and a first and second end, the inner surface comprising a
sealant, wherein a first portion of the first surface of the base
strip is sealed to a first part of the inner surface of the panel
section, and [0319] a die cut disposed in the panel section; [0320]
wherein at least one of the base strip and the panel section is
anchored to the lay-flat web; [0321] advancing the lay-flat web
with the discrete laminate to a forming device to convert the
lay-flat web to a folded web having an inner surface; [0322]
advancing a product to the forming device such that the folded web
and the discrete laminate envelope the product; [0323] making a
longitudinal seal in the folded web and the discrete laminate;
transversely sealing the folded web and the discrete laminate, with
the product therein, to produce a leading transverse seal to define
a first pouch; [0324] advancing the folded web and the discrete
laminate, with the leading transverse seal, forward a predetermined
distance; [0325] transversely sealing the first pouch to produce a
trailing transverse seal in the first pouch, and a leading
transverse seal in a second pouch, the second pouch disposed
upstream of the first pouch; and [0326] transversely cutting the
folded web and the discrete laminate to separate the first pouch
from the second pouch to make a package, the package comprising a
first and second side panel each comprising an outer and inner
surface, first and second side edges, and a first and second end,
the first and second side panels joined together along their
respective first and second side edges, the panel section and
second side panel joined along their respective first and second
side edges, and the first end of the panel section extending beyond
the first end of the base strip; the discrete laminate anchored to
the first side panel.
[0327] Optionally, according to various embodiments of the tenth
aspect of the invention: [0328] the inner surface of the panel
section comprises an easy-open sealant. [0329] the first surface of
the base strip comprises an easy-open sealant. [0330] a first
portion of the die cut is a through-cut, and a second portion of
the die cut is a score. [0331] the second surface of the base strip
comprises an easy-open sealant. [0332] the outer surface of the
panel section comprises a sealant. [0333] a second part of the
outer surface of the panel section is anchored to the inner surface
of the first side panel. [0334] a second portion of the first
surface of the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the
first side panel. [0335] a second portion of the first surface of
the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the first side
panel, and a second part of the inner surface of the panel section
is anchored to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0336] a
second part of the inner surface of the panel section is anchored
to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0337] a second
portion of the second surface of the base strip is anchored to the
outer surface of the first side panel. [0338] the first end of the
panel section, and the first end of the second side panel, are
joined together with a seal. [0339] the second end of the first
side panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a seal. [0340] the second end of the first side
panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a fold. [0341] the second end of the base strip
extends beyond the second end of the panel section. [0342] the
second end of the panel section extends beyond the second end of
the base strip. [0343] the second end of the panel section is
co-extensive with the second end of the base strip. [0344] the die
cut is a closed loop. [0345] the package is absent any zipper.
[0346] the package is absent a repositionable adhesive between the
base strip and the panel section. [0347] the package can be opened
with a peel force of from 25 grams/inch to 5 pounds/inch.
[0348] In an eleventh aspect, a pouch comprises [0349] a first and
second side panel each comprising an outer and inner surface, a
first and second side edge, and a first and second end, the first
and second side panels joined together along their respective first
and second side edges with a seal; [0350] a first end; [0351] a
second end defined by the second ends of the first and second side
panels respectively; and [0352] a discrete laminate having a first
and second end, the discrete laminate comprising [0353] a base
strip comprising a first and second surface, a first and second
side edge, and a first and second end, the first and second
surfaces of the base strip each comprising a sealant, [0354] a
panel section comprising an outer and inner surface, a first and
second side edge, and a first and second end, the inner surface
comprising a sealant, wherein [0355] a first portion of the first
surface of the base strip is sealed to a first part of the inner
surface of the panel section, [0356] the panel section and the
second side panel are joined together along their respective first
and second side edges with a seal; and [0357] the first end of the
panel section extends beyond the first end of the base strip; and
[0358] a die cut disposed in the panel section; and [0359] wherein
at least one of the base strip and the panel section is anchored to
the first side panel, and the second surface of the base strip is
sealed to the inner surface of the second side panel.
[0360] Optionally, according to various embodiments of the eleventh
aspect of the invention: [0361] the inner surface of the panel
section comprises an easy-open sealant. [0362] the first surface of
the base strip comprises an easy-open sealant. [0363] a first
portion of the die cut is a through-cut, and a second portion of
the die cut is a score. [0364] the second surface of the base strip
comprises an easy-open sealant, [0365] the outer surface of the
panel section comprises a sealant. [0366] a second part of the
outer surface of the panel section is anchored to the inner surface
of the first side panel. [0367] a second portion of the first
surface of the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the
first side panel. [0368] a second portion of the first surface of
the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the first side
panel, and a second part of the inner surface of the panel section
is anchored to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0369] a
second part of the inner surface of the panel section is anchored
to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0370] a second
portion of the second surface of the base strip is anchored to the
outer surface of the first side panel. [0371] the second end of the
first side panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are
joined together with a seal. [0372] the second end of the first
side panel, and the second end of the second side panel, are joined
together with a fold. [0373] the second end of the base strip
extends beyond the second end of the panel section. [0374] the
second end of the panel section extends beyond the second end of
the base strip. [0375] the second end of the panel section is
co-extensive with the second end of the base strip. [0376] the die
cut is a closed loop. [0377] the pouch, and a package made from the
pouch, is absent any zipper. [0378] the pouch, and a package made
from the pouch, is absent a repositionable adhesive between the
base strip and the panel section. [0379] a package made from the
pouch can be opened with a peel force of from 25 grams/inch to 5
pounds/inch.
[0380] In a twelfth aspect, a method of making a bag with a
discrete laminate disposed thereon comprises [0381] extruding a
thermoplastic tube to make a bag tubing; [0382] providing a
discrete laminate having a first and second end, the discrete
laminate comprising [0383] a base strip comprising a first and
second surface, a first and second side edge, and a first and
second end, the first and second surfaces of the base strip each
comprising a sealant, [0384] a panel section comprising an outer
and inner surface, a first and second side edge, and a first and
second end, the inner surface comprising a sealant, wherein a first
portion of the first surface of the base strip is sealed to a first
part of the inner surface of the panel section, and [0385] a die
cut disposed in the panel section, [0386] slitting the tubing at a
longitudinal edge thereof to make a slit bag tubing; anchoring at
least one of the base strip and the panel section to the slit bag
tubing; and [0387] transversely cutting and sealing the slit bag
tubing at predetermined intervals to make a plurality of individual
bags each with the discrete laminate disposed thereon, each bag
comprising a first and second side panel each comprising an outer
and inner surface, first and second side edges, and a first and
second end, the first and second side panels joined together along
their respective first and second side edges by a seal, a first end
defined by the first ends of the first and second side panels
respectively, an end fold defined by the second ends of the first
and second side panels respectively, and the first end of the panel
section extending beyond the first end of the base strip; [0388]
wherein at any time before or during the step of slitting the bag
tubing, the first portion of the first surface of the base strip is
sealed to a part of the inner surface of the panel section; and
[0389] wherein at least one of the base strip and the panel
sections anchored to the first side panel.
[0390] Optionally, according to various embodiments of the twelfth
aspect of the invention: [0391] the inner surface of the panel
section comprises an easy-open sealant. [0392] the first surface of
the base strip comprises an easy-open sealant. [0393] a first
portion of the die cut is a through-cut, and a second portion of
the die cut is a score. [0394] the second surface of the base strip
comprises an easy-open sealant. [0395] the outer surface of the
panel section comprises a sealant. [0396] a second part of the
outer surface of the panel section is anchored to the inner surface
of the first side panel. [0397] a second portion of the first
surface of the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the
first side panel. [0398] a second portion of the first surface of
the base strip is anchored to the inner surface of the first side
panel, and a second part of the inner surface of the panel section
is anchored to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0399] a
second part of the inner surface of the panel section is anchored
to the outer surface of the first side panel. [0400] a second
portion of the second surface of the base strip is anchored to the
outer surface of the first side panel. [0401] the second end of the
base strip extends beyond the second end of the panel section.
[0402] the second end of the panel section extends beyond the
second end of the base strip. [0403] the second end of the panel
section is co-extensive with the second end of the base strip.
[0404] the die cut is a closed loop. [0405] the bag, and a package
made from the bag, is absent any zipper. [0406] the bag, and a
package made from the bag, is absent a repositionable adhesive
between the base strip and the panel section. [0407] a package made
from the bag can be opened with a peel force of from 25 grams/inch
to 5 pounds/inch.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0408] The present invention is illustrated by reference to the
following drawing figures, encompassing different views of various
embodiments of the invention, wherein:
[0409] FIG. 1 is an elevational view of a package;
[0410] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the package of FIG. 1;
[0411] FIG. 2A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of
FIG. 1;
[0412] FIG. 2B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of another
embodiment of a portion of FIG. 1;
[0413] FIG. 3 is a front view of the package of FIG. 1, viewed
along lines 3-3 of FIG. 1;
[0414] FIG. 4 is a back view of the package of FIG. 1, viewed along
lines 4-4 of FIG. 1;
[0415] FIG. 5 an enlarged view of a portion of the package of FIG.
1 according to another embodiment;
[0416] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a base strip;
[0417] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a base strip according
to another embodiment;
[0418] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a HFFS process and apparatus
for making a package;
[0419] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a HFFS process and
apparatus for making a package according to another embodiment;
[0420] FIG. 9B is a perspective view of a section of folded
web;
[0421] FIG. 9C is a perspective view of a section of a gusseted
folded web;
[0422] FIG. 10 is an elevational view of a VFFS process and
apparatus for making a package;
[0423] FIG. 11 an elevational view of a VFFS process and apparatus
for making a package according to another embodiment;
[0424] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a roll of lay-flat web and
a roll of a discrete laminate;
[0425] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a roll of lay-flat web and
a discrete laminate according to another embodiment;
[0426] FIG. 14 is a side view of a discrete laminate;
[0427] FIG. 15 is a view of a discrete laminate and a portion of a
lay-flat web taken along lines 15-15 of FIG. 12;
[0428] FIG. 16 is an elevational view of two consecutive pouches in
a VFFS embodiment;
[0429] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a folded web for use in the
invention;
[0430] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a folded web for use in the
invention;
[0431] FIG. 19 is a side view of a tray for use in connection with
the invention.
[0432] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a package;
[0433] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the package of FIG. 20 in
an opened condition;
[0434] FIG. 22 is a plan view of a lidstock;
[0435] FIG. 23 is a plan view of a lidstock according to another
embodiment;
[0436] FIG. 24 is a schematic view of an apparatus and process for
making a discrete laminate;
[0437] FIG. 25 is an elevational view of a continuous horizontal
packaging process and apparatus for making a package;
[0438] FIG. 26 is a front end view of the apparatus of FIG. 25,
viewed along lines 26-26 of FIG. 25;
[0439] FIGS. 27A, 27B, and 27C are each cross-sectional views of a
portion of the package, showing a sequence for opening the
package;
[0440] FIGS. 28A, 28B, and 28C are each plan views of the package,
showing a sequence for opening the package;
[0441] FIG. 28D is an enlarged view of a portion of the package of
FIG. 28C;
[0442] FIGS. 29A, 29B, 29C, 29D, 29E, and 29F are each a plan view
of alternative embodiments;
[0443] FIG. 30 is a cross sectional view of an alternative
embodiment;
[0444] FIG. 31 is a perspective, blown-up view of the discrete
laminate;
[0445] FIG. 32 is a plan view of the discrete laminate;
[0446] FIG. 33 is a plan view of another embodiment of the
invention;
[0447] FIG. 34 is a cross sectional view of FIG. 33, viewed along
lines 34-34 of FIG. 33;
[0448] FIG. 35 is a cross sectional view of an alternative
embodiment;
[0449] FIG. 36 is a cross sectional view of an alternative
embodiment;
[0450] FIG. 37 is a cross sectional view of an alternative
embodiment; and
[0451] FIG. 38 is a cross sectional view of an alternative
embodiment.
DEFINITIONS
[0452] "Anchored", "anchoring" and the like herein refers to
sealing or adhering two surfaces together, and refers to the
resulting bond between surfaces. Sealing is done by means of a
sealant. Adhering is done by means of an adhesive.
[0453] In processes described herein where a discrete laminate is
anchored to a web or side panel, either during the process wherein
the web and discrete laminate are advanced, or when a discrete
laminate has been pre-anchored to the web before the start of the
process, anchoring can be done by use of any suitable continuous or
discontinuous sealing or adhesive material and method. Such
anchoring is done to hold the discrete laminate to the web or panel
during the relevant packaging process.
[0454] In some embodiments, wherein the anchor is already
relatively strong or continuous, e.g. a heat seal that constitutes
either a relatively strong heat seal, or an easy-open seal as
defined herein, the anchor functions not only to hold the discrete
laminate to the web or panel during the relevant packaging process,
but also as a final seal of that surface of the discrete laminate
to the web (lay-flat or folded) or panel made from the web.
[0455] Any subsequent disclosed or recited step in the process of
sealing one of the surfaces (i.e. the anchored surface) of the
discrete laminate to a web or panel, is already completed by the
anchoring step. In these embodiments, then, contact of a seal
device, e.g. a seal bar in the region of the anchor, in a
subsequent step, may in some embodiments add no further or separate
seal to that surface of the discrete laminate.
[0456] Any subsequent step in the process of sealing the other
surface of the discrete laminate to a web or panel, then, may in
some embodiments add no further or separate seal to the anchored
surface of the discrete laminate.
[0457] In some embodiments where the bond is a relatively weak or
discontinuous one, e.g. a discontinuous seal, spots or narrow
stripes of adhesive. etc., in a subsequent step of sealing one of
the surfaces of the discrete laminate to the web or panel, a seal
bar that seals one of the surfaces of the discrete laminate to the
web or panel can contact the web or panel in the region where the
anchor is already disposed. The seal in that region may be either
enhanced, or initially created, by the subsequent sealing step.
[0458] Sealing of a surface of the discrete laminate to a web or
panel, as a process step disclosed or recited herein, should be
understood in this light.
[0459] "Close-looped" herein refers to a die cut that defines a
closed pattern or path in the panel section whereby the web
material within the path (the die-cut segment) can be removed from
the panel.
[0460] "Die cut" herein refers to methods of cutting or scoring
materials, including rotary die, steel rule die, platen die
cutting, and laser cutting or scoring, and/or the resultant cut or
score. A die cut can extend entirely through the relevant layer or
web (defining a through-cut) or can extend partially through the
relevant layer or web (defining a score), thus leaving intact a
certain amount of material. A given die cut can in one embodiment
be a combination of a through-cut and a score. The depth of the cut
can vary from package to package, and within a single die cut on a
given package.
[0461] "Die-cut segment" herein refers to a portion of the panel
section that can be displaced or completely removed because of the
presence of a closed loop or open loop die cut. The die-cut segment
is a piece of the panel section, and when displaced or removed can
sometimes function as a tamper evidence device, and facilitates
access to the interior of the package.
[0462] "Discrete" with respect to the discrete laminate is used
herein to mean independently made (the discrete laminate is not an
integral part of the web when the web is made,) or constituting a
separate entity from the web, and from a first or second side panel
made from the web.
[0463] "Easy-open" herein refers to a package that can be manually
opened relatively easily. The physical mode of opening may include
a) actual peeling at the base strip/web interface (adhesive
failure), or b) a sealant layer of the base strip breaking
completely through, and peeling then occurring between the sealant
layer and an adjacent layer within the strip (delamination
failure), or c) breaking within a sealant layer by rupturing of the
sealant material itself (cohesive failure). The peel force required
to open the package can be measured by an evaluation of seal
strength or peel strength in accordance with the test procedure set
out in ASTM F88, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety,
using a crosshead speed of 8 to 12 inches/minute and an initial jaw
gap of from 1.00 inch to 2.00 inch. Typical peel forces for opening
the package of the invention can range from e.g. 25 grams/inch to 3
pounds/inch, e.g. from 100 grams/inch to 2 pounds/inch, such as
from 200 grams/inch to 1.5 pounds/inch. In some cases, the sealant
may actually peel away from the surface to which it is adhered
(adhesive failure), or breakage of the sealant and delamination
along an adjacent layer interface may occur (delamination failure)
or a rupture of the sealant can occur (cohesive failure). Depending
on the design and geometry of the seal, peel forces can in some
embodiments be higher than 3 pounds/inch, e.g. 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, or 5
pounds/inch, or values intermediate these values.
[0464] "Easy-open seal" herein refers to a seal involving the base
strip and web in which materials and sealing conditions are chosen
for the base strip and web such that the package is easy-open with
a physical mode of opening of adhesive failure, delamination
failure, or cohesive failure as described herein. An easy-open
sealant can be used to provide the easy-open seal. Where the
easy-open sealant is a removable adhesive, the easy-open seal
mechanism is a form of "adhesive failure" discussed further
below.
[0465] "Easy-open sealant" herein refers to a material chosen for
one or both surfaces of the base strip and/or panel section, such
that when such surface is sealed to another surface, e.g. the
surface of a web, strip or panel section, it provides a package
that is easy-open with a physical mode of opening of adhesive
failure, delamination failure, or cohesive failure as described
herein. The material can be a polymer or polymer blend that e.g. is
extruded as an external layer of a strip or panel section.
Alternatively, the material can be a removable adhesive, such as
certain PSA materials, that is coated on at least a portion of a
surface of a web, strip or panel section.
[0466] "Ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer" (EAO) herein refers to
copolymers of ethylene with one or more comonomers selected from
C.sub.3 to C.sub.10 alpha-olefins such as propene, butene-1,
hexene-1, octene-1, etc. EAO includes heterogeneous materials such
as linear medium density polyethylene (LMDPE), linear low density
polyethylene (LLDPE), and very low and ultra low density
polyethylene (VLDPE and ULDPE); single-site catalyzed materials
such as homogeneous linear ethylene/alpha olefin copolymers and
long chain branched ethylene/alpha olefin copolymers; and
multicomponent ethylene/alpha-olefin interpenetrating network resin
(or "IPN resin").
[0467] "Ethylene homopolymer or copolymer" herein refers to
polyethylene (PE) such as ethylene homopolymer such as low density
polyethylene (LDPE), medium density polyethylene (MDPE), high
density polyethylene (HDPE); ethylene/alpha olefin copolymer such
as those defined herein; ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA);
ethylene/alkyl acrylate copolymer such as ethylene/methyl acrylate
copolymer (EMA) or ethylene/ethyl acrylate copolymer (EEA), or
ethylene/butyl acrylate copolymer (EBA); ethylene/(meth)acrylic
acid copolymer; or ionomer resin (IO).
[0468] "Fig." and the like herein refers to a drawing figure;
"Figs." and the like herein to drawing figures.
[0469] "Film" is used herein to mean a thermoplastic film,
laminate, or web, either multi-layer or monolayer, that may be used
in connection with the present invention. Film can be of any
suitable thickness, e.g. between 0.1 and 30 mils.
[0470] "Fin seal" is used herein to mean, in the case of a single
web, folding one edge of the web towards the opposite edge of the
web, and sealing the facing inner surfaces together. In the case of
two webs, a fin seal is a seal formed by sealing the inner surface
of the edge of one web to the inner surface of a corresponding edge
of another web.
[0471] "Lap seal" is used herein to mean a seal made by sealing an
inside surface of a web to an outside surface of a web. The inside
and outside surfaces can both be on a single web; or the inside
surface can be of one web, and the outside surface of a second
web.
[0472] "Lidstock" herein refers to a film used to cover a container
or tray that carries a product, and can be sealed to the tray,
typically as a perimeter heat seal. Lidstock typically is supplied
to a food processor in a lay flat film rolled onto a roll.
[0473] "Longitudinal seal" herein refers to a fin seal or lap
seal.
[0474] "Near" herein means, with respect to the position of the
discrete laminate in relation to the package, that the edge of the
base strip of the discrete laminate closest to the first end of the
pouch and package will be typically within about three inches of
the first end of the pouch. The strip 10 can be closer than this,
such as within about two inches, one inch, 0.75 inches, 0.5, 0.4,
0.3, 0.2, or 0.1 inches of the first end of the pouch.
[0475] "Olefinic" and the like herein refers to a polymer or
copolymer derived at least in part from an olefinic monomer.
[0476] "Oxygen barrier" and the like herein refers to materials
having an oxygen permeability, of the barrier material, less than
500 cm.sup.3 O.sub.2/m.sup.2dayatmosphere (tested at 1 mil thick
and at 25.degree. C., 0% RH according to ASTM D3985), such as less
than 100, less than 50, less than 25, less than 10, less than 5,
and less than 1 cm.sup.3 O.sub.2/m.sup.2dayatmosphere. Examples of
polymeric materials useful as oxygen barrier materials are
ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH), polyvinylidene dichloride
(PVDC), vinylidene chloride/methyl acrylate copolymer, vinylidene
chloride/vinyl chloride copolymer, polyamide (nylon), and polyester
(PET).
[0477] "Pouch" herein means a pouch or bag.
[0478] "Polymer" and the like herein means a homopolymer, but also
a copolymer thereof, including terpolymer, tetrapolymer, block
copolymer, etc.
[0479] "Repositionable adhesive" as used herein refers to an
adhesive, such as certain pressure sensitive adhesives (PSA) that
bond firmly with the application of light pressure; can be easily
removed; and can be repositioned and reused multiple times, i.e. it
can be adhered to a surface, removed, and reapplied to a surface
with substantial adhesive capability. It adheres to most surfaces
with very slight pressure; is available in solvent, latex or water
based forms, and hot melt forms, and is often based on
non-crosslinked rubber adhesives, acrylics, or polyurethanes. PSA
forms viscoelastic bonds that are aggressively and permanently
tacky; adhere without the need for more than hand pressure; and
require no activation by water, solvent, or heat. Some PSA
materials are cured by hot air, electron beam, UV, or chemical
(peroxide) means. They are available in a wide variety of chemical
compositions and systems including acrylic and methacrylate
adhesives, emulsion-based acrylic adhesive; rubber-based pressure
sensitive adhesive, styrene copolymers (styrene/isoprene/styrene
and styrene/butadiene/styrene block copolymers), and silicones. PSA
herein can include hot melt adhesives. A hot melt adhesive is a
thermoplastic adhesive compound, usually solid or highly viscous at
room temperature which becomes more fluid on heating for
application. Repositionable adhesive as used herein is not a
removable adhesive as used herein.
[0480] "Registration device" herein refers to any mark, pattern,
die cut or feature of a web or discrete laminate, that facilitates
the advancement of the web or discrete laminate, or a component
thereof, in a controlled manner, into a packaging machine, where
the web and/or discrete laminate is used to make individual
packages. The device can be e.g. printed or placed in uniformly
spaced fashion along or near an edge of the web or discrete
laminate, i.e. registration marks, or in an area near the middle of
a web that does not interfere with decorative printed graphics.
These marks are used in connection with appropriate sensors to
controllably advance the web or discrete laminate. Where die cuts
are used as a registration device, detected by sensors, it may not
be necessary to print registration marks on the web or discrete
laminate.
[0481] "Removable adhesive" herein refers to an adhesive which
exhibits a low initial peel strength to allow for easy removal of
the web or strip after it has been stuck to the desired surface,
with no substantial residual adhesive capability once it has been
removed. Removable adhesive can be used to make an easy-open seal
as disclosed herein. A surface comprising a removable adhesive can
comprise at least a portion of that surface with a removable
adhesive thereon wherein another portion of that surface optionally
does not comprises a removable adhesive.
[0482] Removable adhesive as used herein is not a repositionable
adhesive.
[0483] "Seal" herein means a bond between two thermoplastic
surfaces, e.g. as produced by heat sealing, radio frequency (RF)
sealing, ultrasonic sealing, or permanent adhesive.
[0484] "Sealant" is a polymeric material or blend of materials,
such as olefinic polymer or copolymer such as an ethylenic polymer
or copolymer, that can form a surface of the base strip or panel
section of the invention, or a web to which the base strip or panel
section is sealed, and form a bond between two thermoplastic
surfaces. A permanent adhesive can also be a sealant. "Sealant"
herein, with respect to the base strip or panel section, or a web
to which the base strip or panel section is adhered, excludes a
repositionable adhesive. A surface comprising a sealant can
comprise in one embodiment at least a portion of that surface with
a sealant therein or thereon (polymer or permanent adhesive)
wherein another portion of that surface optionally does not
comprise a sealant.
[0485] "Strip" and "panel section" herein refers to an elongate
piece of thermoplastic material, typically longer in a first
direction than in a direction perpendicular to the first direction,
e.g. rectangular; but can also be square, round, oblong,
elliptical, or any appropriate shape in plan view. The strip and
panel section can be of any suitable thickness, e.g. between 0.1
and 30 mils.
[0486] "Tamper evidence", "tampering", and the like herein refers
to visual evidence of a breach in a package; i.e. that someone has
accidentally or intentionally opened or partially opened the
package, or attempted to do so.
[0487] "Thermoplastic" herein includes plastic materials that when
heated to a softening or melting point may be reshaped without
significant thermal degradation (burning). Thermoplastic includes
both materials that are not crosslinked, or that are crosslinked by
chemical or radiation means.
[0488] "Tray" herein refers to a formed member that has a tray
bottom, tray sides, and a tray flange around the upper perimeter of
the tray, where the tray bottom and tray sides form an internal
cavity within which a product can be placed. The cavity can be
enclosed by a lidstock sealed to the tray flange.
[0489] "Web" is used herein to mean a thermoplastic film, laminate,
or web, either multilayer or monolayer, that may be used in
connection with the present invention. The web can be of any
suitable thickness, e.g. between 0.1 and 30 mils, and the web can
be of any suitable length and width.
[0490] "Zipper" and the like herein refers to a plastic zipper
closure; press-to-close or slide zipper; interlocking closure;
reclosable fastener with interlockable fastener elements;
interlocking rib and groove elements having male and female
profiles; interlocking alternating hook-shaped closure, and the
like.
[0491] All compositional percentages used herein are presented on a
"by weight" basis, unless designated otherwise.
[0492] Drawings herein are not necessarily to scale, and certain
features of the invention may be graphically exaggerated for
clarity.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0493] 1. Package
[0494] Referring to the drawings, a package 5 according to the
invention is shown.
[0495] Package 5 includes a pouch 7 that can be made from either a
single web, or two webs, to form a first side panel 12, and a
second side panel 14.
[0496] A. Web(s)
[0497] In either embodiment, the web or webs comprises a
thermoplastic material of any suitable composition, including those
having as at least one component olefinic materials such as
ethylene or propylene polymers or copolymers, e.g. polyethylene or
ethylene/alpha olefin copolymers; polyethylene terephthalate (PET);
and including webs typically used in, or useful in, HFFS, VFFS,
lidstock/tray, continuous horizontal packaging, and bag making
apparatus and processes. The web or webs can be monolayer or
multilayer in construction, can be coextruded, laminated, or made
by any suitable film making process, and can have any suitable
thickness.
[0498] Examples of web(s) that can be used with a discrete laminate
of the invention include H7225B.TM., a barrier hybrid material used
for products requiring a high oxygen barrier, such as shredded
cheese; H7525B.TM., a barrier hybrid material used for products
requiring a high oxygen barrier, such as bacon and smoked and
processed meat; CP04140.TM., a low barrier (high OTR) material used
in produce packaging, CPM4090, a microwaveable packaging film for
fresh cut produce; and T7225B.TM., a barrier material used as
lidstock (non-forming web) for products requiring a high oxygen
barrier, such as luncheon meat. These are all commercial products
produced by the Cryovac business unit of Sealed Air
Corporation.
[0499] H7225B.TM. is a laminate having the construction
PET//adhesive//coextruded barrier film, where the PET is a
biaxially oriented polyester film, and the barrier film has the
construction LDPE (low density polyethylene)/EVA
tie/nylon/EVOH+nylon/nylon/EVA tie/EAO. The overall thickness of
the laminate can be any of several gauges, being typically about
2.5 mils. The LDPE is the surface of the barrier film adhered, by
the adhesive, to the PET film. The EAO typically acts as the heat
sealant layer of the film, and finished laminate, and in packaging
made from the laminate, the EAO will form the inner or sealant
surface of the package, facing the contained product, and the PET
will form the outer or skin surface of the package. H7225B.TM. can
be used as a lidstock (non-forming) web.
[0500] H7525B.TM. is a laminate having the construction
PET//adhesive//coextruded barrier film, where the PET is a
biaxially oriented polyester film, and the barrier film has in one
embodiment the construction LDPE (low density
polyethylene)/EVA/LLDPE tie/EVOH/LLDPE tie/EVA/EAO. The overall
thickness of the laminate can be any of several gauges, being
typically about 2.5 mils. The LDPE is the surface of the barrier
film adhered, by the adhesive, to the PET film. The EAO typically
acts as the heat sealant layer of the film, and finished laminate,
and in packaging made from the laminate, the EAO will form the
inner or sealant surface of the package, facing the contained
product, and the PET will form the outer or skin CP04140.TM. is a
laminate having the construction BOPP//adhesive/monolayer LLDPE
film. A typical gauge for the laminate is about 1.8 mils. The LLDPE
typically acts as the heat sealant layer of the finished laminate,
and in packaging made from the laminate, the LLDPE will form the
inner or sealant surface of the package, facing the contained
product, and the BOPP will form the outer or skin surface of the
package.
[0501] CPM4090.TM. is a laminate having the construction
BOPP//adhesive/monolayer LLDPE+LDPE film. A typical gauge for the
laminate is about 2 mils. The LLDPE+LDPE layer typically acts as
the heat sealant layer of the finished laminate, and in packaging
made from the laminate, the LLDPE+LDPE will form the inner or
sealant surface of the package, facing the contained product, and
the BOPP will form the outer or skin surface of the package.
[0502] T7225B.TM. film has the construction EAO/EAO/LLDPE
tie/nylon/EVOH/nylon/EVA tie/EVA tie/nylon. The first layer of EAO
typically acts as the heat sealant layer of the film, and in
packaging made from the laminate, the EAO will form the inner or
sealant surface of the package, facing the contained product, and
the nylon of the last layer will form the outer or skin surface of
the package.
[0503] Referring to the drawings, the first side panel 12 has a top
portion 9, a first side edge 31, a second side edge 33, and a lower
portion 17. The second side panel 14 has a top portion 11, a first
side edge 35, a second side edge 37, and a lower portion 18. The
first and second side panels 12 and 14 are joined together along
their respective first and second side edges by either a seal or a
fold. As shown, first side edge 31 of first side panel 12 is joined
to first side edge 35 of second side panel 14 by a seal 30. Second
side edge 33 of first side panel 12 is joined to second side edge
37 of second side panel 14 by a heat seal 32. The second end 34 of
the pouch 7 can be either a seal or a fold. Where a single web is
used to make the pouch, second end 34 will typically be a fold,
although even after the web is folded, a seal such as a heat seal
can optionally be installed in the area of the fold. Where two webs
of film are used to make panels 12 and 14, second end 34 will be a
seal that joins panels 12 and 14 together along their respective
lower portions 17 and 18. The two webs can be from the same
material, or can be different in composition, structure, etc.
[0504] B. Discrete Laminate
[0505] A discrete laminate 4 includes a panel section 6 (see FIG.
2A) having an outer surface 66 and inner surface 67, and a base
strip 10 sealed to the panel section 6. Any of the laminate, panel
section, and base strip can be of any suitable dimension and shape,
and will typically be longer in length than in width, with the
length being e.g. greater than two times the width, e.g. greater
than 3, 4, or 5 times the width. A typical dimension for the
discrete laminate is a width of from about 1 to 1.5 inches and a
length of about 4 to 10 inches. The strip 10 will be shorter in one
dimension than the pouch and package. For example, the strip can
extend across the transverse width of a pouch made in e.g. a HFFS
or VFFS process, but will be significantly narrower than the length
of the package (see e.g. FIGS. 3 and 4). In one embodiment, the
strip will occupy less than 50%, such as less than 40%, less than
30%, less than 20%, or less than 10% of the length of the
package.
[0506] In some embodiments, an opening flap 26 (e.g. FIGS. 28C and
28D) provides a device that can be manually grasped and pulled back
to open the package, and access the contents of the package. The
size of the package, type of materials used for the pouch and the
strip, the seal strength of the materials used in the strip, and
the type of product being packaged can all have some effect on the
choice of the optimal length and dimensions of flap 26.
[0507] Base strip 10 comprises a first surface 23 and a second
surface 25, each of these first and second surfaces comprising a
sealant, at least one of the first and second surfaces comprising
an easy open sealant.
[0508] The first surface 23 is sealed to the inner surface 27 of
the first side panel 12, and the second surface 25 is sealed to the
inner surface 29 of the second side panel 14.
[0509] The film strip can be of multilayer or monolayer
construction.
[0510] When a product 24 is placed in the pouch 7, by any suitable
process such as processes herein disclosed, and the pouch 7 is
closed, the package 5 is made.
[0511] Any suitable materials, including those disclosed herein for
web or webs for making the first and side panels, e.g. a
thermoplastic material of any suitable composition, monolayer or
multilayer in construction, coextruded, laminated, or made by any
suitable film making process, and of any suitable thickness,
including hybrid materials of the type described herein for web
materials, e.g. H7225B or a non-barrier analog of such material,
can be used to make each of the panel section 6 and base strip
10.
[0512] The discrete laminate 4 is anchored to the first side panel.
In one embodiment, base strip 10 is anchored to the inner surface
27 of first side panel 12 in anchor region "A".
[0513] In embodiments disclosed in the drawings, the first portion
of the first outer surface of the base strip is closer to the first
end of the pouch than the second portion. The second portion of the
first surface is anchored to the inner surface of the first side
panel at anchor region "A".
[0514] Alternatively, discrete laminate 4 is anchored to the first
side panel by sealing a second part of the inner surface 67 of
panel section 6 to the outer surface 65 of first side panel 12.
[0515] C. Opening Mechanisms and Strip Construction The package of
the invention can be easily manually opened. Any suitable mechanism
or combination of mechanisms for obtaining this functionality and
feature can be used according to the invention. The following are
examples of such mechanisms. [0516] 1. Adhesive Failure
[0517] In this embodiment, second surface 25 of base strip 10 and
inner surface 29 of second side panel 14 each comprises a polymeric
composition that, when surface 25 is sealed to surface 29, forms an
easy-open seal. This seal provides an interface that breaks apart
upon manually opening the package. The interlaminar bonds between
layers of the base strip itself (where the strip is of multilayer
construction), the cohesive strength of each layer within the strip
or of the single layer of a monolayer strip, and the anchor that
holds first surface 23 of base strip 10 to inner surface 27, are
stronger than the seal that holds surface 25 to surface 29.
[0518] In some embodiments, the polymeric composition of surfaces
25 and 29 will be the same or similar. Useful in these embodiments
are the peel systems disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,189,519
(Ticknor) (blend of EVA or EMA or EEA with crystalline isotactic
polybutylene, and optionally with anhydride grafted EVA); 4,252,846
(Romesberg et al.) (blend of EVA and HDPE, optionally with IO or
polybutylene (PBU)); 4,550,141 (Hoh) (blend of IO and
polypropylene/ethylene copolymer (EPC)); 4,666,778 (Hwo) (three
component blend of PE, that can be LLDPE, LDPE, MDPE, or HDPE, or
EVA or EMA, with PBU, and PP or EPC); 4,882,229 (Hwo) (butene-1
polymer or copolymer blended with modified or unmodified LDPE);
4,916,190 (Hwo) (blend of butylene polymer or copolymer, with PE
polymer or copolymer (LLDPE, LDPE, MDPE, EVA, EMA, EEA, EBA, or
HDPE), with propylene polymer or copolymer); 4,937,139 (Genske, et
al.) (propylene polymer or copolymer blended with HDPE); 5,547,752
(Yanidis) (blend of PBU and IO); and 5,997,968 (Dries et al.)(blend
of Component 1 (a copolymer of ethylene and propylene or ethylene
and butylene or propylene and butylene or ethylene and another
-olefin having 5 to 10 carbon atoms or propylene and another
-olefin having 5 to 10 carbon atoms or a terpolymer of ethylene and
propylene and butylene or ethylene and propylene and another
-olefin having 5 to 10 carbon atoms) and Component 2 (HDPE, MDPE,
LDPE, LLDPE or VLDPE); these U.S. patents all incorporated herein
by reference in their entirety.
[0519] In other embodiments, the composition of surfaces 25 and 29
will differ, i.e. dissimilar sealants are used. Useful in these
embodiments are the peel systems disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.
3,655,503 (Stanley et al.) (LDPE or MDPE sealed to polypropylene
(PP), EPC, saran, nylon 6, polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride
(PVC), or polyethylene oxide (PEO); PP sealed to saran, nylon 6,
PC, PVC, PEO, IO, phenoxy, or EVA; or nylon sealed to IO);
4,729,476 (Lulham et al.) (a blend of EVA and IO sealed to IO);
4,784,885 (Carespodi) (PP, HDPE, or LLDPE sealed to substantially
linear PE (HDPE, LLDPE) blended with a polyolefinic thermoplastic
elastomer such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), EPM,
butyl rubber, halogenated butyl rubber, isoprene rubber, and
styrene butadiene rubber); 4,859,514 ((Friedrich et al.) (IO or IO
blended with EVA, sealed to a blend of EVA and ethylene butene
copolymer (EBC) and PP); 5,023,121 (Pockat, et al.) (a blend of PBU
and PP and a third polymeric material selected from EVA, LDPE,
LDPE, and IO, sealed to EVA, LDPE, LLDPE, or IO); these U.S.
patents all incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
[0520] 2. Delamination Failure
[0521] In this embodiment, one of the interlaminar bonds between
layers of the base strip itself (where the strip is of multilayer
construction) can be broken. Thus, the interlaminar bond provides
the interface that will break apart upon manually opening the
package. The seal between surfaces 25 and 29, and between surfaces
23 and 27, and the cohesive strength of each layer within the
strip, are stronger than the interlaminar bond. Useful in this
embodiment are the peel systems disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
4,944,409 (Busche et al.), this patent incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety. [0522] 3. Cohesive Failure In this
embodiment, one of the layers of the base strip itself (where the
strip is of multilayer construction) or the monolayer base strip,
fractures when the package is opened. The seal between surfaces 25
and 29, and between surfaces 23 and 27, and the interlaminar bonds
between layers of the strip itself (where the strip is of
multilayer construction) are stronger than the layer that
fractures. Useful in this embodiment is the peel system disclosed
in U.S. Pat. No. 6,476,137 (Longo) (internal rupture of a sealant
layer comprising a blend of an ionomer having a melt flow index of
less than 5, and a modified ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer having
a substantially higher melt flow index, where the melt flow indices
of the two polymers in the seal layer differ by at least 10), this
patent incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
[0523] Other peel systems useful in connection with the present
invention are those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,058,632 (Evans et
al.), 4,615,926 (Hsu et al.); 5,128,414 (Hwo); 6,395,321 (Schaft et
al.), 7,055,683 (Bourque et al.), and US Patent Publication Nos.
20030152669 (Vadhar et al.) and 2008/0260305 (Shah et al.)
(disclosing as easy-open sealant), DuPont APPEEL.TM. resins, such
as those based on EVA, modified EVA, EAA, or modified EAA;
polyethylenes such as LDPE and/or EVA blended with PP; LDPE or EVA
blended with polybutene-1, or random propylene/ethylene copolymer
blended with polybutene-1; EVA or LDPE blended with PP; LDPE
blended with EVA and PP; such blends provide an easy-open sealant
when adhered to polyethylene sealants); these U.S. patents and
publications all incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety.
[0524] The base strip 10 can have any suitable number of layers. In
FIGS. 1 and 2, a strip 10 has two layers. Layer 20 comprises a
polymeric composition that in one embodiment provides an easy-open
seal when sealed at surface 25 to inner surface 29. Layer 22
comprises a polymeric composition that exhibits a relatively strong
seal when sealed at surface 23 to inner surface 27. In any strip
construction, alternatively layer 22 or its equivalent can provide
the easy-open seal, and layer 20 or its equivalent can provide the
relatively strong seal, when sealed to respective web inner
surfaces. Alternatively, both 20 and 22 or their equivalents
provide an easy-open seal.
[0525] In an alternative embodiment, a seal between surfaces 23 and
67 can function as the easy-open seal in accordance with any of the
herein described opening mechanisms.
[0526] Alternatively, (FIG. 5), base strip 10 is of monolayer
construction. Layer 20 comprises a polymeric composition and
includes first outer surface 23 and second outer surface 25 that
can be like those disclosed herein for a multilayer base strip.
[0527] Referring to FIG. 2A, panel section 6 includes at least one
die cut 21. Strip 10 is sealed to a portion of the inner surface 67
of panel section 6. During manufacture of the package, another
portion of the strip 10 is anchored to a portion of first side
panel 12. In one embodiment, strip 10 is anchored to the inner
surface 27, e.g. with a relatively strong heat seal, at anchor
region "A". The second surface 25 of strip 10 is in one embodiment
sealed to inner surface 29 of second side panel 14 with an
easy-open seal.
[0528] A representative film structure "A1" suitable for use as the
base strip 10 according to the invention is shown in FIG. 6. In one
embodiment, this film has the composition shown in Table 1.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 (Example 1) Gauge Gauge Gauge Layer
Composition (thickness %) (mils) (.mu.m) 122 EZ1 25.00 0.50 12.7
118 AD1 7.50 0.15 3.8 114 80% NY1 + 7.50 0.15 3.8 20% NY2 112 OB1
10.0 0.20 5.1 116 80% NY1 + 7.50 0.15 3.8 20% NY2 120 AD1 7.50 0.15
3.8 124 65% AD2 + 17.50 0.35 8.9 35% PE1 128 PE1 17.50 0.35 8.9
[0529] This example of a material suitable as the base strip 10 is
a barrier film with an easy-open sealant, and is currently used as
a barrier/easy-open component of various laminated materials that
also include a polyester film component, sold commercially by the
Cryovac business unit of Sealed Air Corporation, under designations
including H52XXBZ, and H72XXBZ. These are sold as primary packaging
materials, i.e. webs that form the main body of the package, not as
discrete laminates to be used in combination with a primary
web.
[0530] When used according to the invention, the easy-open sealant
layer 122 of A1 exhibits a peel force of typically about 2
pounds/inch (ASTM F88). Layer 128 of A1 yields a peel force of
typically 8 pounds/inch.
[0531] The resins disclosed in Table 1 are identified in Table
2.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Material Tradename Or Code Designation
Source(s) AD1 PLEXAR .TM.PX1007 .TM. Equistar AD2 BYNEL .TM.39E660
.TM. DuPont EZ1 APPEEL .TM.72D727 DuPont NY1 ULTRAMID .TM. B33 01
BASF NY2 GRIVORY .TM. G21 EMS OB1 SOARNOL .TM. ET3803 Nippon Gohsei
PE1 PE .TM.1042cs15 Flint Hills AD1 is a maleic anhydride modified
EVA that acts as a polymeric adhesive (tie layer material). AD2 is
a maleic anhydride modified EVA that acts as a polymeric adhesive
(tie layer material). EZ1 is a compound polymer blend of 65%
ionomer (SURLYN .TM. 1650SB), 30% EVA (ELVAX .TM. 3134Q), and 5%
polybutylene (MONTELL .TM. PB8640), each by weight of the blend.
NY1 is nylon 6 (polycaprolactam). NY2 is an amorphous copolyamide
(6I/6T) derived from hexamethylene diamine, isophthalic acid, and
terephthalic acid. OB1 is EVOH with about 38 mole % ethylene. PE1
is LDPE.
[0532] Example 1 as shown has a total thickness ranging from about
2.0 mils to 3.5 mils.
[0533] Core layer 112 of the above film structure can comprise any
suitable oxygen barrier material, such as EVOH, and can be blended
in any suitable proportion with other polymeric materials or
organic or inorganic additives as desired. In one embodiment,
intermediate layers 114 and 116 can each comprise 100%
semicrystalline polyamide such as nylon 6.
[0534] In another embodiment, Intermediate layers 114 and 116 each
comprise a blend of an amorphous polyamide and a semicrystalline
polyamide.
[0535] Tie layers 118 and 120 can comprise any suitable polymeric
adhesive that functions to bond two layers together, e.g. EVA, EAO,
LDPE, EMA, and anhydride grafted derivatives of these polymers. Tie
layers 118 and 120 can be the same, or can differ.
[0536] Bulk layer 124 can comprise a suitable polyolefin, such as
an EAO; and/or a polymeric adhesive such as those disclosed herein
for tie layers 118 and 120.
[0537] In one embodiment, first outer layer 122 functions as an
easy-open sealant layer of the film, and provides a surface 25 that
can be sealed to the inner surface 29. Layer 122 can comprise any
suitable material or blend of materials that provides an easy-open
peelable seal when adhered to the inner surface 29. Layer 122
comprises EZ1 or any suitable resin or resin blend that provides an
easy-open peelable sealant.
[0538] Second outer layer 128 can function as a sealant layer of
the film, and provides a surface 23 that can be sealed to the inner
surfaces 27 and 67. Layer 128 can comprise any suitable material or
blend of materials that provides a relatively strong seal when
adhered to inner surfaces 27 and 67. Layer 128 comprises PE1 or any
EAO such as EXACT.TM. 3024, a single-site catalyzed linear
ethylene/butene copolymer from ExxonMobil with a density of 0.905
g/cc; or AFFINITY.TM. PL 1888G, a single-site catalyzed branched
ethylene/octene copolymer from Dow with a density of 0.9035
g/cc.
[0539] Additional materials that can optionally be incorporated
into one or more of the film layers, as appropriate, include
antiblock agents, slip agents, antifog agents, fillers, pigments,
dyestuffs, antioxidants, stabilizers, processing aids,
plasticizers, fire retardants, UV absorbers, etc.
[0540] Alternatively, layer 122 can be sealed to inner surfaces 27
and 67, and layer 128 can be sealed to inner surface 29.
[0541] In general, strip 10 can have any total thickness desired,
and each layer can have any thickness desired, so long as the strip
and package provide the desired functionalities. Typical total film
thicknesses are from 0.1 mils to 15 mils, such as 0.2 to 12 mils,
such as 0.5 mils to 10 mils, 0.8 mils to 8 mils, and 1 mil to 4
mils. Suitable gauges include 1.5 mils, 2 mils (as in Example 1);
and 3 mils.
[0542] Thus, by way of example, FIG. 7 shows, in another
embodiment, a two layer film 210 having a first outer layer 222
compositionally and functionally like layer 122 of FIG. 6, with a
first outer surface 225; and having a second outer layer 228
compositionally and functionally like layer 128 of FIG. 6, with a
second outer surface 223.
[0543] Two, three, four, five, six, seven, and eight layer films
can thus alternatively be produced, that each include the layers
described above with respect to the film strip of FIG. 7, with
additional layers as needed, using suitable polymers such as olefin
homopolymers or copolymers.
[0544] In some embodiments, such as the base strip of FIG. 7, an
oxygen barrier layer is not necessary, for example in the packaging
of produce. In these embodiments, the web or webs that comprise the
pouch will typically also not have an oxygen barrier layer. In
contrast, embodiments of film strip 10 that include an oxygen
barrier layer will typically be suitable in connection with web or
webs for the pouch that include an oxygen barrier layer.
[0545] FIG. 2B is similar to FIG. 2A, but in which 1) the surface
of the strip providing an easy-open seal faces the inner surface 27
instead of inner surface 29; 2) a portion of the strip is sealed to
a portion of the inner surface 27 with an easy-open seal, at anchor
region "A", 3) another portion of the strip is optionally sealed to
a portion of the inner surface 67 of panel section 6 with an
easy-open seal, to ensure hermeticity if needed, and 4) the second
surface 25 of strip 10 is not sealed to inner surface 29 of second
side panel 14, except by side seals. The embodiment of FIG. 2B
offers the benefit of more usable space inside the package, because
there is no seal (except at the sides of the package) of surface 25
to surface 29, and therefore more space is available for
product.
[0546] In some embodiments, in the unopened package, the die cut is
completely shadowed (underlain) by the strip 10.
[0547] In each of the embodiments of the package and process
disclosed herein, a non-hermetic or hermetic package can be made in
accordance with the invention.
[0548] In one embodiment, layer 20 comprises a sealant that provide
a relatively strong seal when layer 20 is sealed to surface 27. An
example of a material suitable as a base strip for this embodiment
is a barrier film with a sealant that provides a relatively strong
seal, and is currently used as a barrier/sealant component of
various laminated materials that also include a polyester film
component, sold commercially by the Cryovac business unit of Sealed
Air Corporation, under designations including H52XXB, and H72XXB.
These are sold as primary packaging materials, i.e. webs that form
the main body of the package, not as a base strip to be used in
combination with a primary web.
[0549] At least one open-loop or close-loop die cut is disposed on
the panel section. Two or more die cuts can be disposed on the
panel section, one at a position closer to the first end of the
package than the strip, as well as a second die cut below or in the
vicinity of the strip. To open a package, a die-cut segment of
material can thus be displaced or entirely removed from the panel
section, exposing the upper edge of the base strip anchored to the
first side panel 12. This upper edge can then be grasped and pulled
up, allowing access to the contents of the package.
[0550] 2. Method of Making a Package [0551] A. Horizontal
form/fill/seal (HFFS) HFFS packaging systems are generally well
known to those of skill in the packaging industry, and can be used
to make packages of the present invention.
[0552] Referring to FIGS. 8, and 9A through 9C, lay-flat web 300 is
unwound from roll 302, then advanced to forming plow 304 to convert
lay-flat web 300 to folded web 305 (typically a centerfold film).
The second end of each of the pouches to be made will comprise a
second end fold 306. Second end fold 306 therefore is equivalent to
second end 34 of FIG. 1. This second end fold can be optionally
sealed, or left as a folded second end of the pouch. Side seals 308
are made to define a plurality of vertically arranged pouches 309.
Each pouch 309 is cut off from the trailing edge of web 300 by an
appropriate cutting mechanism (not shown) such as a knife, at
position 311, a product (not shown in FIG. 8, but see product 24 in
FIGS. 1 to 5) is inserted or dropped into the open mouth 312 of
each pouch, and the pouch mouth 312 is then closed by a suitable
sealing mechanism such as a heat sealer (not shown) to create a
seal 314.
[0553] Discrete laminate 310, equivalent to discrete laminate 4 of
FIGS. 1 to 5, can be introduced into the HFFS process in a number
of ways. For example, discrete laminate 310 can be unwound from a
roll 315 in the vicinity of roll 302, and disposed on lay-flat web
300 prior to, or as web 300 is being folded into folded web 305.
The discrete laminate is disposed on the web such that the discrete
laminate overlaps the lay-flat web sufficient to allow the discrete
laminate to be anchored to the web.
[0554] In an alternative arrangement, the base strip and panel
section can each be provided on a separate roll, and then assembled
into a discrete laminate on the packaging machine at the time the
package is to be made.
[0555] Discrete laminate 310 includes a base strip, a first portion
of the first surface of the base sealed to the panel section (see
FIG. 2A). The first portion is closer to a longitudinal end of the
pouch, e.g. the first end of the pouch, than the second portion.
The panel section includes die cut(s) made in a predetermined
pattern (see FIGS. 29A to 29F) to produce packages according to the
invention. The second portion of the first surface of the base
strip is anchored to the inner surface of the folded web at a
second location on the folded web, by a suitable sealing mechanism
such as a heat sealer (not shown). Optionally, the second surface
of the strip is sealed to the inner surface of the folded web.
Discrete laminate 310 would thus be installed on the pouch in the
same overall HFFS process that achieves production of the pouch,
loading of a product into the pouch, and completion of the final
package. Discrete laminate 310 is incorporated onto the pouch
material and after cutting and sealing as described hereinabove,
comprises an extension of the first side panel of each pouch as
shown in FIGS. 8, and FIGS. 1 to 5.
[0556] Alternatively, and referring to FIG. 9A, discrete laminate
310 is shown as being installed on the lay-flat web prior to the
start of the HFFS packaging process. This can be accomplished
off-site from the processor, e.g. by the supplier of the web roll
302.
[0557] FIG. 9B is a perspective view of a section of folded web as
shown in the HFFS process and apparatus of FIGS. 8 and 9A, as the
lay-flat web is folded to create folded web 305. The discrete
laminate 310 is shown disposed, and optionally attached to, an
inner surface 27 of one panel 12 of the folded web 305, such that
upon sealing the web to create a pouch, the discrete laminate
functions as an extension of the panel.
[0558] The embodiment of FIG. 9C is similar to FIG. 9B, but
additionally shows an optional gusset 400 that can be made in the
second end fold 306 of the folded web. The gusset can be optionally
thereafter heat sealed. A gusseted second end provides a stand-up
pouch feature in the final package. Gusseting can be accomplished
by any suitable means known to those of skill in the art, such as a
second forming plow (not shown) placed in-line in the manufacturing
line at a position downstream of the forming plow 304. The bottom
area of the folded web takes on a generally "W" shape, i.e. a
gusseted shape, in cross-section, with the outside legs of the "W"
extending upwardly, and two parallel reverse folds to create the
gusseted bottom. Seal opening or holes are previously punched in
the inner legs of the "W" shape and aligned with one another so
that the two outside plies can be sealed together through these
holes. When the seals are made the panels are sealed to one another
through the holes. One or more static plows may be mounted above
the seal zone to form the gussets. Gusset holes can be die punched
by a die at a hole-punch station which punches clearance holes at
an appropriate position designed to be in general alignment with
the side seal, adding rigidity to the gusset portion of the final
package. This added rigidity enables the final package to stand up
by itself when placed on a flat surface. [0559] B. Vertical
form/fill/seal (VFFS)
[0560] FIG. 10 schematically illustrates a VFFS apparatus that can
be used in conjunction with the apparatus and process according to
some embodiments of the present invention. VFFS packaging systems
are generally well known to those of skill in the art, and
described for example in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,589,247 (Tsuruta et al),
4,656,818 (Shimoyama et al.), 4,768,411 (Su), and 4,808,010
(Vogan), all incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety.
[0561] Apparatus 40 utilizes a lay-flat web 41 as a rollstock.
Product 42 is manually or mechanically supplied to apparatus 40
from a source (not illustrated), from which a predetermined
quantity of product 42 reaches the upper end portion of forming
tube 44 via funnel 43, or other conventional means. The packages
are formed in a lower portion of apparatus 40, and web 41 from
which the packages are formed is fed from feed roll 51 over certain
forming bars (not illustrated), is wrapped about forming tube 44
(sometimes known as a "sailor's collar" or "forming collar") and is
provided with a longitudinal fin seal or lap seal 47 by
longitudinal heat sealing device 46, resulting in the formation of
a vertically-oriented folded web in the form of a tube 48.
Transverse heat seal bars 45 operate to close and seal horizontally
across the lower end of vertically-sealed tube 48, to form a pouch
49 which is thereafter packed with product 42. Film drive belts 52,
powered and directed by rollers, as illustrated, or by suitable
alternative motive means, advance tube 48 and pouch 49 a
predetermined distance, after which seal bars 45 close and
simultaneously seal horizontally across the lower end of
vertically-sealed tube 48 as well as simultaneously sealing
horizontally across upper end of sealed pouch 49, to form a product
packaged in sealed pouch 49. The next pouch 50, thereabove, is then
filled with a metered quantity of product 42, forwarded, and the
packaging cycle is repeated. It is conventional to incorporate with
the seal bars 45 a cut-off knife (not shown) which operates to
sever a lower sealed pouch 49 from the bottom of upstream pouch
50.
[0562] Lay-flat web 41 of FIGS. 10 and 11 will in operation travel
upward, e.g. vertically upward from roll 51 to the forming tube 44,
and then downward, e.g. vertically downward for the remaining
process steps. Discrete laminate 54 is unwound from roll 51 (FIG.
12) to dispose discrete laminate 54 in overlapping relationship
onto web 41 before, or as, web 41 is wrapped about forming tube 44.
Longitudinal seal 47 is made, and discrete laminate 54 is aligned
with and attached to the longitudinal edge of the folded web.
[0563] FIG. 12 discloses the roll 51 of lay-flat web 41 according
to one embodiment of the invention. Discrete laminate 54 is fed
from roll 53 onto a portion of lay-flat web 41.
[0564] Alternatively, and referring to FIGS. 11 and 13, discrete
laminate 54 is already installed on the lay-flat web prior to the
start of the VFFS packaging process. This can be accomplished
off-site from the processor, e.g. by the supplier of the feed roll
51.
[0565] The discrete laminate includes die cuts on the panel section
of the discrete laminate, the die cuts made in a predetermined
pattern (see FIGS. 28A to 29F) to produce packages according to the
invention.
[0566] In some embodiments, at least one of the web and the
discrete laminate carries a registration device. Printed indicia
can be in the form of registration marks, such as eyespots. Those
skilled in the art will be familiar with the use of eye-spots and
registration marks in processing web material in packaging
operations. Registration marks are printed in uniformly spaced
fashion along or near an edge of the web or discrete laminate, and
facilitate the controlled production of packages of the invention,
and can be printed in conjunction with other decorative
printing.
[0567] FIG. 14 shows a discrete laminate 4 of the invention, which
can be used in the various processes and packages disclosed herein,
e.g. as a discrete laminate 54 of FIGS. 12 and 13. Discrete
laminate 4 includes base strip 10 sealed to panel section 6
including die cut(s) 21.
[0568] FIG. 15 shows a discrete laminate 54 of the invention (see
also FIG. 12) that has been anchored to lay-flat web 41. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the discrete laminate is anchored to
the lay-flat web at a second portion of a first surface of base
strip 10. Joint 13 represents the gap between and juxtaposition of
a second end of panel section 6, and a first longitudinal edge 63
of the lay-flat web that will become a first end of first side
panel 12 in the package of the invention. The exact dimension of
joint 13 can vary depending on manufacturing tolerances when
combining the discrete laminate with a web.
[0569] FIGS. 31 and 32 show a discrete laminate 4 in accordance
with the invention. The discrete laminate includes a panel section
6 including an outer surface 355, an inner surface 356, a first
side edge 353, a second side edge 354, a first end 351, a second
end 352, and a die cut 21; and a base strip 10 including a first
surface 361, a second surface 362, a first side edge 360, a second
side edge 359, a first end 357, and a second end 358. Each of the
components of discrete laminate 4 can have any suitable dimensions,
and in some embodiments base strip 10 and panel section 6 can be
congruent, provided that the first end 351 of panel section 6
extends beyond the first end 357 of base strip 10. As shown in FIG.
32, base strip 10 includes a splice area "S" that extends beyond
the second end 352 of panel section 6; and panel section 6 includes
an area that extends beyond the first end 357 of base strip 10.
These extended areas in some embodiments serve as areas that can be
anchored to a web or first side panel of a package of the
invention; or, in the case of the panel section, serve as an upper
or end portion extension of a first side panel of a package that
can function as part of an opening or removable flap, or as a
component that can be sealed to the second side panel. In some
embodiments, both the first and second ends of the panel section
can extend beyond the first and second ends respectively of the
base strip.
[0570] Although for purposes of illustration FIG. 32 shows the
first and side edges of the base strip as extending beyond the
first and side edges of the panel section, typically in packages of
the invention the first and second side edges of the panel section
will be congruent with the first and second edges respectively of
the base strip.
[0571] In FIG. 16, a leading or downstream pouch "L" includes a
transverse bottom and top seals 78, folded side edges 81 and 82,
and longitudinal seal 47. Trailing or upstream pouch "T" has
features similar to leading pouch "L". Leading pouch "L" is severed
from upstream pouch "T" at cut line 80, and the seals 78 are made
by suitable sealing equipment commonly used in VFFS packaging
processes, such as heat sealing equipment, not shown. For the sake
of clarity, die cuts 21, present in the first side panel of the
package, are not shown in all of the drawings. The discrete
laminate is not shown in FIG. 16.
[0572] FIG. 17 shows folded web 500 with a discrete laminate 502
anchored to the folded web, and fin seal 501, formed as disclosed
hereinabove, and prior to a step of making transverse seals in the
folded web. A finished package made according to FIG. 17 will thus
look like the packages of FIGS. 3 and 4, when these are viewed at
right angles to their position in FIGS. 3 and 4, i.e. with the
discrete laminate 4 to the right side of each package, and the
second end 34 representing a fold. The embodiment of FIG. 17 thus
provides a method of producing packages on a VFFS apparatus where
the longitudinal seal of the package effectively becomes the first
end of the finished package (discounting any unsealed material
between the longitudinal seal and the top edge of the package). The
apparatus and methodology of U.S. Pat. No. 6,293,073 (Caudle) this
patent incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, can be
utilized in combination with the teachings herein, to produce
packages according to this embodiment. A point of distinction is
that in the present invention, the transverse seals will typically
(although not necessarily) be rectilinear, whereas the trans-verse
seals disclosed in Caudle '073 are wavy or sinusoidal.
[0573] Alternatively (FIG. 18), a package like the embodiment of
FIG. 17 is shown, but where a lap seal 503 is shown. In this as
well as the other processes disclosed herein, a lap seal can be
used in lieu of a fin seal when making a longitudinal seal
according to the invention. A finished package 5 according to FIG.
18 has a product therein; the two longitudinal ends of the package
are closed by a transverse seal; the lap seal runs down the middle
or spine of the package, bounded on both ends by the transverse
seals; and the discrete laminate is anchored to an interior surface
of the folded web. [0574] C. Lidstock/Formed Web
[0575] FIGS. 19, 20, and 21 illustrate in another embodiment the
use of a formed web, e.g. a tray, and a non-formed web, e.g. a
lidstock, used in connection with the invention. Tray 602 will
typically be made during the packaging process. Thermoforming
equipment, available from e.g. Multivac, Tiromat, Ulma or Rapid
Pak, is used to convert flat thermoplastic forming web into formed
pockets to create trays for containing product such as food,
various industrial and consumer items and sterile medical products.
Trays are formed from a lower web by heat and pressure, and can be
loaded with product manually or automatically on the machine. After
that, the packages are vacuumized or backflushed with modified
atmosphere (if required), hermetically sealed to an upper web,
separated, and removed for distribution or storage. Alternatively,
pre-formed trays can be used.
[0576] Each tray 602 has a tray bottom 604, tray sides 606, and a
tray flange 608 along its perimeter to which the lidstock 612 can
be sealed by heat or other means. Tray bottom 604 and tray sides
606 define tray cavity 610. Prior to any thermoforming step, tray
602 can be of any suitable thickness, e.g. from 2 to 30 mils thick,
and any suitable construction.
[0577] If a pre-made tray is used according to the invention, it
can be rigid or semi-rigid, can be in the form of a flat or shaped
tray, and can be made from any suitable material, including solid
or expanded embodiments, such as PP, polystyrene, polyamide,
1,4-polymethylpentene (e.g. TPX.TM. available from Mitsui), or
crystallized polyethylene terephthalate (CPET). A tray liner can
optionally be used that adheres to the surface of the pre-made tray
on which the product is to be placed. This liner can be of any
suitable design, and can be a multi-layer structure with at least
one layer with gas-barrier properties. Such a liner can be adhered
to the tray by heat lamination, extrusion lamination, extrusion
coating, adhesives, corona treatment, etc. Tray 602 can be a
flexible or semi-rigid, or rigid formed web.
[0578] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, a package 600 includes tray
602 to which lidstock 612 has been sealed with perimeter seal 614.
Lidstock 612 includes a lay-flat web 611 (see FIGS. 22 and 23)
formulated to function as a lid on a formed web, and can be any
suitable monolayer or multilayer thermoplastic film as described
herein with respect to webs useful in connection with the present
invention. Lidstock 612 also includes discrete laminate 616 having
an easy-open sealant on one surface thereof, and a sealant on a
second surface thereof. Discrete laminate 616 has the easy-open
characteristics and composition discussed herein with respect to
the discrete laminate of HFFS or VFFS packages. The panel section
at die cut 621 (see also FIG. 29A) can be pulled back manually
toward the end of the package, along hinge line 58, and the first
side panel is grasped so that the package is easily opened and
product can be removed as desired.
[0579] In some embodiments, the die cut can be a closed-loop die
cut that can be completely removed when opening the package.
[0580] Referring to FIG. 22, discrete laminate 616 has a first
lateral edge 111. As shown, discrete laminate 616 has been anchored
to the lay-flat web 611 to produce lidstock 612. Dotted lines 107
indicate the location at which lidstock 612 is sealed and cut, e.g.
perimeter heat sealed and cut, in registered fashion by otherwise
conventional means as discussed herein, e.g. in thermoforming
equipment, to create individual packages. Lines 107 represent what
will become the side edges and seals of individual packages when
lidstock 612 is advanced into a packaging system where it is
progressively fed over filled trays, sealed to the trays, and cut
to create finished packages. Lines 111 and 140 also represent what
will become the first and second end respectively of individual
packages. Lay-flat web 611, as rolled up, and as it feeds into
thermoforming equipment, has a first lateral edge 140. Discrete
laminate 616 can be preanchored on lay-flat web 611 by the supplier
of the lidstock, as in the embodiments of FIGS. 9A, 11 and 13.
Alternatively, discrete laminate 616 can be anchored to the
lay-flat web 611 during the packaging process, as in the
embodiments of FIGS. 8, 10, and 12.
[0581] FIG. 23 shows an alternative embodiment of FIG. 22, in which
the lidstock is produced as described above, but "two across", so
that when run in a packaging machine, with suitable machine die
set-ups, two, four, etc. packages can be made simultaneously. In
addition to the seal and cut steps at locations 107, the web is cut
longitudinally along line 121, so that individual packages made
from the longitudinal portion "X" of FIG. 23 will have a second end
121; and individual packages made from the longitudinal portion "Y"
of FIG. 23 will have a second end 121. [0582] D. Continuous
horizontal packaging
[0583] In another embodiment, and referring to FIGS. 25 and 26, the
package of the invention can be made using a continuous HFFS
process and apparatus such as those used for packaging bakery and
other goods, sometimes known as Flow Wrap, Flow-Wrap or Flow
wrapping machines or systems, and available from
manufacturers/suppliers such as Ilapak, ULMA, and Bosch.
[0584] FIG. 25 shows such a process and apparatus 700, but one in
which a discrete laminate 724 is installed into a package. Lay-flat
web 702 is drawn from roll 704 and advanced to forming device 710.
As this occurs, a series of products 706 is advanced along conveyor
708 to forming device 710, and discrete laminate 724 is drawn from
roll 726 and advanced to forming device 710. Web 702, with the
discrete laminate in some embodiments anchored thereto either
before or during forming of the web in the forming device, is
formed by forming device 710 into folded web 712. This folded web
will be like the folded web described above with respect to VFFS
embodiments, but in a substantially horizontal orientation. Folded
web 712 wraps around products 706. A longitudinal sealing device
that can be part of forming device 710 forms a lap or fin seal (of
the type disclosed above with respect to VFFS embodiments) on the
folded web, typically at the bottom of the folded web. The lap or
fin seal is typically a heat seal. An alternative is to have a
separate sealing device 714 to produce the lap or fin seal. The
products travel downstream from forming device 710 or sealing
device 714 to transverse sealing device 716 where the folded web is
transversely sealed in areas of the folded web between adjacent
products. Such seals are typically heat seals. The products are
advanced from transverse sealing device 716 to cutting device 718a
and 718b, where the formed and longitudinally and transversely
sealed folded web is severed in areas of the folded web between
adjacent products, in or near the transverse seals, such that
individual packages 720 are produced.
[0585] Alternatively, the sealing function of transverse sealing
device 716 and the cutting function of cutting device 718a and 718b
can be combined at a single station, rather than being performed at
separate locations on the production path.
[0586] Web 702 and discrete laminate 724 can be of any suitable
dimension and composition, such as those disclosed herein. As
discrete laminate 724 is fed to forming device 710, it can be
brought into contact with, and optionally anchored to a surface of
web 702. This embodiment is shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, where
discrete laminate 724 is shown as anchored to web 702 as it
progresses toward forming device 710. First longitudinal edge 703
of discrete laminate 724 can be seen in FIG. 26. Alternatively,
discrete laminate 724 can be fed into forming device 710, and then
incorporated into folded web 712 by anchoring the discrete laminate
to the interior surface of the web adjacent to the area of the
formed web in which the lap or fin seal is made, and in a manner
and format analogous to the embodiment of the VFFS pouch and
package of FIGS. 10, 17 and 18, but in a horizontal rather than
vertical position. In another embodiment, discrete laminate 724 can
be pre-applied to web 702 by the supplier of the web, analogous to
the embodiment of the VFFS pouch and package of FIG. 13, and the
HFFS pouch and process of FIG. 9A. [0587] E. Side Seal Bags
[0588] In one embodiment, and referring to FIGS. 33 and 34, the
package of the invention can be made using otherwise conventional
bag making equipment and processes. Bags are often made as side
seal bags. The side seal bag has a factory-made heat seal at
opposite bag edges. The bag bottom is formed by one of two folds of
film created during the extrusion of bag tubing during manufacture.
The opposite fold of film is slit to form a bag mouth. The bag is
typically made from a long length of bag tubing. A method of making
side seal bags is disclosed in US 2008/0138478 A1 (Ebner et al.),
this patent incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
[0589] FIGS. 33 and 34 illustrate bag 180. FIG. 33 illustrates a
side seal bag 180, in a lay-flat view; FIG. 34 illustrates a
cross-sectional view taken through section 34-34 of FIG. 33. With
reference to FIGS. 33 and 34 together, side seal bag 180 comprises
a web 182, first edge 184 defining an open mouth, edge fold 190,
first side seal 192, and second side seal 194. Discrete laminate
191 is installed on the individual bag, or on a slit bag tube that
is then cut and sealed at predetermined intervals to make a series
of side seal bags 180, by any suitable process such as any of those
disclosed herein.
[0590] A bag can be made by extruding a thermoplastic tube to make
a bag tubing; slitting the tubing at one longitudinal edge thereof
to make a slit bag tubing; anchoring the discrete laminate as
described herein to the slit bag tubing; and transversely cutting
and sealing the bag tubing at predetermined intervals to make a
plurality of individual bags each with the discrete laminate
disposed thereon. The discrete laminate can function as described
herein for other embodiments and processes, in providing an
easy-open package. Some of the steps set out in US 2008/0138478 A1,
for making a bag, are optional with respect to the present
invention; such steps including irradiation and orientation of the
tubing.
[0591] The discrete laminate can be anchored to the first side
panel of a web, pouch, or package in a number of different
configurations. An example is that shown in FIG. 2A. Alternatives
are shown in FIGS. 35 to 38.
[0592] FIG. 35 shows the discrete laminate anchored to the first
side panel 12 by anchoring a second part of the outer surface 66 of
panel section 6 to the inner surface 27 of first side panel 12.
[0593] FIG. 36 shows the discrete laminate anchored to the first
side panel 12 by anchoring a second portion of the first surface 23
of the base strip 10 to the inner surface 27 of first side panel
12, and/or a second part of the inner surface 67 of panel section 6
to the outer surface 59 of first side panel 12.
[0594] FIG. 37 shows the discrete laminate anchored to the first
side panel 12 by anchoring a second part of the inner surface 67 of
panel section 6 to the outer surface 59 of first side panel 12. A
joint 13 defines the juxtaposition of the second end of base strip
10 and the first end of first side panel 12.
[0595] FIG. 38 shows the discrete laminate anchored to the first
side panel 12 by anchoring a second portion of the second surface
25 of the base strip 10 to the outer surface 59 of first side panel
12.
[0596] For each of these alternatives, in the event that the anchor
is in the form of a seal, appropriate sealants should be present at
surfaces to be anchored by sealing.
[0597] Method of Operation
[0598] In opening the package of FIGS. 27A to 27C, die-cut segment
56 defined by a first closed-loop die cut 21 (see also FIGS. 28A to
29F) is manually grasped and pulled from the first side panel. The
first end of strip 10 is then grasped and pulled away from the
second side panel 14, breaking through the easy-open seal to access
product in the interior 57 of the package. During this opening
sequence, the anchor in region "A" between surface 23 and surface
27 of first side panel 12 will typically remain intact, such that a
portion of the strip 10 stays on and in contact with surface 27.
More than one die cut can be present. The die cut is in some
embodiments close-looped, i.e. the die cut defines a die-cut
segment that can be displaced or completely removed from the first
side panel of the package. A second die cut can also be
close-looped, or can be open-looped and hinged such that the flap
formed by a second die cut and a hinge line can be opened without
removing the flap from the first side panel of the package.
Alternatively, a single die cut can be used, that is either
close-looped (FIGS. 29B, 29E, 29F) or includes a hinge line (FIG.
29C). Each die cut can be of any suitable geometry and depth.
[0599] Method Of Making A Die Cut In A Web
[0600] A conventional die cutter can be used to create a first die
cut 21, and optionally one or more additional die cuts 36 in a web
that is used to make panel section 6. Die cuts can be made by any
suitable conventional process and equipment. Any suitable pattern
of die cut can be used, open or close-looped, as long as it serves
the function of providing an easy open package in which the
packaged product can be accessed by means of a flap created at
least in part by the die cut. Alternative patterns include
elliptical, oval, triangular, three side rectangle, hour glass,
"dog bone", and other regular and irregular shapes.
[0601] The die cut extends completely through the panel section, or
may extend through most of, but not entirely through, the thickness
of the panel section. The die cut may extend through e.g. at least
50% of the thickness of panel section 6, e.g. at least 60%, at
least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or 100% of the
thickness of the panel section. A single die cut can have a first
portion that extends completely through the panel section (a
through-cut), and a second portion that extends partly through the
panel section (a score).
[0602] A laser system can be configured to produce a laser cut that
cuts partly or completely through the panel section, or
alternatively, a die cut can be made using a mechanical cutting
system using rotary engraved dies, or steel rule dies supported in
platens as used in reciprocating presses. The choice of die cutting
technique depends on several factors, including the thickness and
physical nature of the film or web to be cut.
[0603] The die cut may sometimes act as a tamper evident
feature.
[0604] The die cutting of a web used to produce a panel section,
and the assembling of a package incorporated a die cut panel
section and a strip, can be done at a single location, but more
practically will typically be done at one or more separate
locations, with the assembling of the package by a packager using
pre-provided discrete laminate prepared elsewhere and provided in
advance of the packaging process.
[0605] Method Of Applying A Panel Section To A Strip to Make a
Discrete Laminate
[0606] FIG. 24 shows a method of applying a panel section to a
strip to make a discrete laminate, comprising the following steps:
[0607] 1) advancing base strip 10 by suitable motive means (not
shown, and well known in the art, such as a motor) from roll 178.
[0608] 2) advancing panel section 6 from roll 176. [0609] 3)
bringing strip 10 and panel section 6 together at nip rolls
181,182, such that the strip is sealed, by a suitable sealing
device (not shown) to the panel section. [0610] 4) installing a
series of die cuts in the panel section at die cutter 183. [0611]
5) advancing resulting discrete laminate 4 to take-up roll 185.
[0612] The panel section could be die-cut in advance of this
process.
[0613] In an alternative arrangement, the base strip and panel
section can each be provided on a separate roll, and then assembled
into a discrete laminate on the packaging machine at the time the
package is to be made. The die cuts can be installed in the panel
section at any suitable time, e.g. when or after the discrete
laminate is assembled, or when or after the panel section is
made.
[0614] Method of Application of the discrete laminate to a Web
[0615] The discrete laminate can be applied to a web such as a
lay-flat web in a number of ways.
[0616] In one embodiment, the discrete laminate can be completely
assembled, either at the package facility where it will be used to
make packages, or at a supplier or converter location. The discrete
laminate can then be adhered or anchored to a web as disclosed
herein. Anchoring in this embodiment is accomplished by sealing an
extended second end of the panel section of the discrete laminate
to a surface of the web, and/or by anchoring an extended second end
of the base strip of the discrete laminate to a surface of the
web.
[0617] In another embodiment, the panel section and base strip are
not brought together initially, and the panel section is sealed to
one surface of a web, and the strip is separately anchored to an
opposite surface of the web, so that the base strip adheres to an
inner surface of the panel section. Either or both of the
attachment of the base strip to the web, and the attachment of the
panel section to the web, can be done at the location where the
package is to be made, or at a separate location, e.g. at a
converter, or by the supplier of the panel section, web, and/or
base strip. Attachment of the panel section and strip to the web
can be done simultaneously, or sequentially with attachment of the
panel section either before or after attachment of the strip. In
this embodiment, the panel section and strip can be congruent,
although they do not have to be.
[0618] The above descriptions are those of embodiments of the
invention. All parts and percentages are by weight, unless
otherwise indicated or well understood in the art. Except in the
claims and the specific examples, or where otherwise expressly
indicated, all numerical quantities in this description indicating
amounts of material, reaction conditions, use conditions, molecular
weights, and/or number of carbon atoms, and the like, are to be
understood as modified by the word "about" in describing the
broadest scope of the invention. Any reference to an item in the
disclosure or to an element in the claim in the singular using the
articles "a," "an," "the," or "said" is not to be construed as
limiting the item or element to the singular unless expressly so
stated. All references to ASTM tests are to the most recent,
currently approved, and published version of the ASTM test
identified, as of the priority filing date of this application.
Each such published ASTM test method is incorporated herein in its
entirety by reference.
[0619] Terms referring to polymers, such as polyester, polyamide,
and polyolefin, refer herein to both homopolymers and copolymers
thereof, unless otherwise specified.
[0620] With reference to the drawings, the flow of materials is in
the direction of the arrows.
[0621] Those of skill in the art will recognize that the drawings
herein are not necessarily to scale, and certain features of the
invention may be graphically exaggerated for clarity.
[0622] Both the web or webs used in the manufacture of the package
according to the invention, and the strip and panel section of the
discrete laminate of the invention, can be made by any suitable
process, including coextrusion, extrusion coating, extrusion
lamination, and conventional lamination using polyurethane or other
adhesives. These manufacturing processes are well known in the art.
Extrusion can be done in annular or flat dies. The extrudate can be
hot blown or cast, and optionally solid-state oriented as desired.
Chemical or electronic crosslinking of one or more layers of the
webs or the strip can be done. Both web and discrete laminate can
be advanced by suitable motive means (not shown, and well known in
the art, such as a motor) from their respective rolls.
[0623] A package according to the invention can optionally carry
printed indicia, which can be decorative or informational in
nature. Decorative printed indicia can include a logo, a trademark,
product information, etc. with text and/or graphics.
[0624] Printed indicia can be in the form of a message e.g. "easy
open" or "open here". This can be printed in scattered process
(i.e. registration is not required) on or near the first end of the
package. The message is surface printed or reverse printed.
[0625] The present invention, including the package and methods as
disclosed herein, is provided in several embodiments in the absence
of: plastic zipper closures; press-to-close or slide zippers;
interlocking closures; reclosable fasteners with interlockable
fastener elements; interlocking rib and groove elements having male
and female profiles; interlocking alternating hook-shaped closure
members, and the like. None of these aforementioned closures,
zippers, elements, etc. is present in the package of the
invention.
[0626] The package of the invention is provided herein in several
embodiments in the absence of a PSA layer or coating between the
panel section and the base strip.
[0627] Although the invention is described in some embodiments
herein as a package comprising a thermoplastic pouch comprising a
first and second side panel each having a first end, a first side
edge, and a second side edge, those skilled in the art will
understand, after a review of this disclosure, that in some
embodiments, wherein a single web is used, terms such as "second
end", and the like are used for convenience to describe the
relative locations or regions on a single web made into a pouch, so
that the overall geometry of the package, and relative positions of
the various features of the invention can be described. Although
the first and second side panels are shown in various embodiments
as having the same length, the second side panel can be longer than
the first side panel, i.e. extend beyond the first end of the first
side panel. The extended portion can accommodate a hang tab with a
hole therein.
[0628] In some embodiments, a seal can be applied obliquely across
the two corners of the panel section of a package of the invention,
closest to the first end of the package, such that it crosses over
and seals two corners of the base strip to the panel section. These
angled seals can be useful in assuring the integrity of the package
before initial opening. The angled seal can overlap a portion of
the die cut 21 at upper edges of the die cut. Optionally, the die
cut can be discontinuous in the regions of the die cut where the
angled seals are present.
[0629] In embodiments where a hermetic package is desired, a
protective easy-open seal can be installed between the panel
section and the first surface of the base strip to ensure
hermeticity of the package. This is advantageous e.g. in
embodiments where the die cut has a through-cut portion to enable
easy initiation of removal or displacement of the die-cut segment,
and the second surface of the base strip is not sealed to the inner
surface of the second side panel (e.g. in the package configuration
of FIG. 2B). The protective easy-open seal can be made by any of
the materials and processes disclosed herein for easy-open seals
and easy-open sealants. In this embodiment, the protective
easy-open seal can be placed at any suitable location between a
through-cut portion of the die cut, and a scored portion of the die
cut (if both are present) to preventingress of air from the
external environment to enter the package interior through the die
cut.
[0630] In packages where the second surface of the base strip is
sealed to the inner surface of the second side panel (e.g. in the
package configuration of FIG. 2A), the seal between the second
surface of the base strip and the inner surface of the second side
panel can be an easy-open seal which ensures hermeticity of the
package while allowing easy access to the package contents.
* * * * *