U.S. patent application number 13/108323 was filed with the patent office on 2012-11-22 for condiment packet.
Invention is credited to Andrea Nadon.
Application Number | 20120292340 13/108323 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47173036 |
Filed Date | 2012-11-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120292340 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Nadon; Andrea |
November 22, 2012 |
CONDIMENT PACKET
Abstract
A condiment packet including an exterior fold region, wherein
the packet is folded over on itself. The packet includes a quantity
of a condiment confined within a single chamber. The packet
includes a seal disposed on the exterior fold region. The seal
includes a first mode, wherein the seal prevents the quantity of
condiment from leaving the packet. The seal includes a second mode,
wherein the seal permits the quantity of condiment to leave the
packet. The seal includes either a selectably removable tab, a
pressure sensitive seal aperture, a break-away nub, or a perforated
region configured to secure over the seal and permit or prevent the
condiment from leaving the packet. The condiment packet is
configured for one hand operation, wherein a thumb and a forefinger
apply pressure to the ends of the condiment packet, wherein the
quantity of condiment leaves the packet through the seal.
Inventors: |
Nadon; Andrea; (Brampton,
CA) |
Family ID: |
47173036 |
Appl. No.: |
13/108323 |
Filed: |
May 16, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
222/107 ;
206/484 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 75/5894 20130101;
B65D 75/585 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
222/107 ;
206/484 |
International
Class: |
B65D 35/00 20060101
B65D035/00; B65D 73/00 20060101 B65D073/00 |
Claims
1. A condiment packet, comprising: a) an exterior fold region,
wherein a single chamber packet is folded over on itself; b) a
quantity of a condiment confined within the packet; and c) a seal
disposed on the exterior fold region, including: c1) a first mode,
wherein the seal prevents the quantity of condiment from leaving
the packet; and c2) a second mode, wherein the seal permits the
quantity of condiment to leave the packet.
2. The packet of claim 1, wherein the seal includes a selectably
removable tab; wherein the selectably removable tab is attached to
the exterior fold region by an adhesive.
3. The packet of claim 1, wherein the seal is a break-away nub.
4. The packet of claim 1, wherein the seal includes a pressure
sensitive seal aperture configured to rupture when pressure is
applied to the folded over packet.
5. The packet of claim 1, wherein the seal includes a perforated
region configured to rupture when pressure is applied to the folded
over packet.
6. The packet of claim 1, wherein the condiment packet is
configured for one hand operation, wherein a thumb and a forefinger
apply pressure to the ends of the condiment packet, wherein the
quantity of condiment leaves the packet through the seal.
7. The packet of claim 1, wherein the quantity of a condiment is
disposed in a cube-like container.
8. The packet of claim 7, wherein the cube-like container includes
a seal having a break-away nub.
9. A method of dispensing a condiment, comprising the steps of: a)
grasping a folded single-chamber condiment packet with a first
hand; b) opening a seal of the folded condiment packet with the
first hand; and c) squeezing the condiment packet with the first
hand.
10. The method of dispensing of claim 9, further comprising the
step of removing a break-away nub from the folded condiment
packet.
11. The method of dispensing of claim 9, further comprising the
step of removing a selectably removable tab from the folded
condiment packet.
12. The method of dispensing of claim 9, further comprising the
step of rupturing a pressure sensitive seal aperture of a folded
condiment packet.
13. The method of dispensing of claim 9, further comprising the
step of rupturing a perforated region of a folded over packet.
14. A condiment packet, comprising: a) a substantially flat
single-chamber container; b) a quantity of condiment disposed
within the container; and c) a selectably openable aperture
disposed within a central region of the container.
15. The packet of claim 14, further comprising a first mode,
wherein the selectably openable aperture prevents the quantity of
condiment from leaving the container; and a second mode, wherein
the selectably openable aperture permits the quantity of condiment
to leave the container.
16. The packet of claim 15, wherein the selectably openable
aperture includes a selectably removable tab; wherein the
selectably removable tab is attached to the central region of the
container by an adhesive.
17. The packet of claim 16, wherein the seal is a break-away
nub.
18. The packet of claim 16, wherein the selectably openable
aperture includes a pressure sensitive seal aperture configured to
rupture when pressure is applied to the folded over packet.
19. The packet of claim 16, wherein the seal includes a perforated
region configured to rupture when pressure is applied to the folded
over packet.
20. The packet of claim 16, wherein the quantity of a condiment is
disposed in a cube-like container; wherein the cube-like container
includes a seal having a break-away nub.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to condiment packaging,
specifically a condiment packet.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] A condiment is sauce or seasoning added to food to impart a
particular flavor or, in some cultures, to complement the dish.
Many condiments are available packaged in single-serving packets
(sachets), like mustard or ketchup, particularly when supplied with
take-out or fast food meals. Condiments are usually applied by the
diner. Condiments are sometimes added prior to serving, for example
a sandwich made with ketchup or mustard. Some condiments are used
during cooking to add flavor or texture to the food; barbecue
sauce, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, marmite are examples.
[0005] A condiment sachet or condiment packet is a small sachet
generally made from plastic, tin foil, or mylar, filled with a
small amount of condiment. They provide a simple and low-cost way
of distributing small amounts of condiment with ready-to-eat
packaged food such as hot dogs, French fries, or hamburgers, and
are common in fast food restaurants. The packets produce less
contamination and mess than freely available condiments dispensed
into small disposable cups or other containers, especially if the
food will be in transit before dining. Condiment sachets are opened
by making a small rip or tear in part of the package, and then
squeezing out the sauce. Condiments distributed in sachets include
ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, relish, tartar sauce, vinegar and soy
sauce.
[0006] Some improvements have been made in the field. Examples of
references related to the present invention are described below in
their own words, and the supporting teachings of each reference are
incorporated by reference herein:
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 7,241,066, issued to Rosen et al., discloses a
compartmentalized container for holding and dispensing flowable
material and method for making such a compartmentalized container
includes opposite sheet portions selectively sealed together to
define a plurality of single use dispensers and a header portion
that is integral with the dispensers. Each of the dispensers
includes a closed cavity defined by an area of the sheet portions
that is not sealed together. Each of the dispensers is separable
from the container and openable to dispense the flowable material
from a respective one of the cavities. The dispensers may be
separable from the container via cutting or tearing the dispensers
from one another or from the header portion. The header portion may
include product information and may include a means for hanging the
container. Each of the dispensers may include an applicator brush
formed or defined at an edge portion of the dispenser.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 4,938,390, issued to Markva, discloses a
flexible container including a body portion and a neck portion. The
body portion is sufficiently flexible to allow manual squeezing
inwardly thereof. An amount of the liquid material is disposed
within the container for storage thereof. The neck portion extends
from the body portion at one end thereof to a discharge opening
defined by a peripheral wall edge at the other end thereof. The
sealing closure includes frangible membrane mechanism and a
securing mechanism for attaching the membrane mechanism to the wall
edge of the discharge opening. The sealing closure being effective
to hold the liquid within the container when the container is
inverted to otherwise cause the liquid therein to pour out of the
discharge opening. The sealing closure has a structural
configuration effective to break open causing gravitational liquid
flow out of the discharge opening when the inverted container is
manually squeezed inwardly.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,332,121, issued to Schmidt et al., discloses
a squeezable container for dispensing a product out the open end of
the container, including a collapsible inner layer and a resilient
outer layer. The container is an integral body formed by expansion
from a multi-layer preform, and preferably consists of one or more
layers of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) separated by an adjacent
boundary layer, such as a barrier layer of ethylene vinyl alcohol
(EVOH). A one-way check valve is provided at the outer layer to
restrict the flow of air into a chamber which is formed between the
inner and outer layers as the inner layer collapses, and preferably
a second check valve is provided in the open dispensing end of the
container to prevent air from being drawn into the container when
the outer layer is released. The container is economical to
manufacture, light in weight, easy to handle, can be made of
recycled materials, and is "product efficient" in that
substantially all of the product can be dispensed from the
container during use.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 7,237,698, issued to Jackman, discloses a
multi layered frangible seal is bonded over the pour spout opening
of flexible plastic bottles containing pourable products such as
motor oil. The seal provides a leak proof closure that is strong
enough to remain intact when the filled uncapped container is held
in an inverted position, and at the same weak enough to break open
and dispense the contents into a fill opening when a consumer
squeezes the inverted container. The seal is constructed from a
first layer of leak proof frangible sheet material that is bonded
to a second layer of strengthening sheet material. The
strengthening layer contains a cut out void configuration that
forms a breaking pattern which forces the seal to break open only
in the weaker single frangible layered configuration of the cut out
void forming the breaking pattern when the container is
squeezed.
[0011] U.S. Patent Application Publication No.: 2001/0030192, by
Redmond, discloses a dispenser package and outlet forming structure
include a package wall (20) and a flap (30). Flap (30) is folded
over at any desirable location of the package (10) and is
adhesively attached to the package wall (20) at any predetermined
location. Flap (30) is folded so that the surface of flap (30) that
is adhesed to the surface of the package wall (20) is one
continuous surface. When a pulling force exerted by a user exceeds
the adhesion force between the package wall (20) and the flap (30),
the flap (30) will break away from the package wall (20) causing a
locus, fault, or score (40) to rupture. The rupturing of the locus,
fault, or score (40) also causes the aperture outlet (50) to
rupture thereby forming an outlet hole at a predetermined location
for allowing the flowable product contents to exit the package
(10).
[0012] The inventions heretofore known suffer from a number of
disadvantages which include limited in application, being too
messy, being limited to two hand operation, being limited in use,
being expensive, being wasteful, lacking features and benefits,
being difficult to ship/pack/store, and the like.
[0013] What is needed is a condiment packet that solves one or more
of the problems described herein and/or one or more problems that
may come to the attention of one skilled in the art upon becoming
familiar with this specification.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] The present invention has been developed in response to the
present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the
problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved
by currently available condiment packets. Accordingly, the present
invention has been developed to provide a one hand operable
condiment packet.
[0015] According to one embodiment of the invention, there is a
condiment packet that may include an exterior fold region, wherein
a packet may include a single chamber that may be folded over on
itself. The packet may include a quantity of a condiment that may
be confined within the single chamber of the packet. The packet may
include a seal that may be disposed on the exterior fold region.
The seal may include a first mode, wherein the seal may prevent the
quantity of condiment from leaving the packet. The seal may include
a second mode, wherein the seal may permit the quantity of
condiment to leave the packet.
[0016] The seal may include a selectably removable tab; wherein the
selectably removable tab may be attached to the exterior fold
region by an adhesive. The seal may include a break-away nub. The
seal may include a pressure sensitive seal aperture that may be
configured to rupture when pressure is applied to the folded over
packet. The seal may include a perforated region that may be
configured to rupture when pressure is applied to the folded over
packet. The condiment packet may be configured for one hand
operation, wherein a thumb and a forefinger may apply pressure to
the ends of the condiment packet, wherein the quantity of condiment
leaves the packet through the seal. The quantity of a condiment may
be disposed in a cube-like container. The cube-like container may
include a seal having a selectably removable tab.
[0017] According to one embodiment of the invention, there is a
method of dispensing a condiment. The method may include the step
of grasping a folded single-chamber condiment packet with a first
hand. The method may include opening a seal of the folded condiment
packet with the first hand. The method may include squeezing the
condiment packet with the first hand. The method of dispensing may
include the step of removing a break-away nub from the folded
condiment packet. The method of dispensing may include the step of
removing a selectably removable tab from the folded condiment
packet. The method may include the step of rupturing a pressure
sensitive seal aperture of a folded condiment packet. The method
may further include the step of rupturing a perforated region of a
folded over packet.
[0018] According to one embodiment of the invention, there is a
condiment packet that may include a substantially flat
single-chamber container. The packet may include a quantity of
condiment disposed within the single-chamber container. The packet
may include a selectably openable aperture disposed within a
central region of the container. The packet may include a first
mode, wherein the selectably openable aperture may prevent the
quantity of condiment from leaving the container. The packet may
include a second mode, wherein the selectably openable aperture may
permit the quantity of condiment to leave the container.
[0019] The selectably openable aperture may include a selectably
removable tab. The selectably removable tab may be attached to the
central region of the container by an adhesive. The selectably
openable aperture may include a break-away nub. The selectably
openable aperture may include a pressure sensitive seal aperture
that may be configured to rupture when pressure is applied to the
folded over packet. The selectably openable aperture may include a
perforated region that may be configured to rupture when pressure
is applied to the folded over packet. The condiment packet may be
configured for one hand operation, wherein a thumb and a forefinger
may apply pressure to the ends of the condiment container, wherein
the quantity of condiment may leave the container through the
aperture. The quantity of a condiment may be disposed in a
cube-like container. The cube-like container may include a
selectably openable aperture having a selectably removable tab.
[0020] Reference throughout this specification to features,
advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the
features and advantages that may be realized with the present
invention should be or are in any single embodiment of the
invention. Rather, language referring to the features and
advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature,
advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an
embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present
invention. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and
similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not
necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.
[0021] Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and
characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable
manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art
will recognize that the invention can be practiced without one or
more of the specific features or advantages of a particular
embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages
may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in
all embodiments of the invention.
[0022] These features and advantages of the present invention will
become more fully apparent from the following description and
appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention
as set forth hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] In order for the advantages of the invention to be readily
understood, a more particular description of the invention briefly
described above will be rendered by reference to specific
embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawing(s). It is
noted that the drawings of the invention are not to scale. The
drawings are mere schematics representations, not intended to
portray specific parameters of the invention. Understanding that
these drawing(s) depict only typical embodiments of the invention
and are not, therefore, to be considered to be limiting its scope,
the invention will be described and explained with additional
specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying
drawing(s), in which:
[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a condiment packet,
according to one embodiment of the invention;
[0025] FIG. 2 is a perspective of a condiment packet in use,
according to one embodiment of the invention;
[0026] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a condiment packet,
according to one embodiment of the invention;
[0027] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a condiment packet,
according to one embodiment of the invention;
[0028] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a condiment packet,
according to one embodiment of the invention;
[0029] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a condiment packet,
according to one embodiment of the invention;
[0030] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a bellows-style
condiment packet, according to one embodiment;
[0031] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a condiment packet,
according to one embodiment of the invention; and
[0032] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of a condiment packet,
according to one embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0033] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the
principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the
exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawing(s), and specific
language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be
understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is
thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the
inventive features illustrated herein, and any additional
applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated
herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and
having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within
the scope of the invention.
[0034] Reference throughout this specification to an "embodiment,"
an "example" or similar language means that a particular feature,
structure, characteristic, or combinations thereof described in
connection with the embodiment is included in at least one
embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the
phrases an "embodiment," an "example," and similar language
throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all
refer to the same embodiment, to different embodiments, or to one
or more of the figures. Additionally, reference to the wording
"embodiment," "example" or the like, for two or more features,
elements, etc. does not mean that the features are necessarily
related, dissimilar, the same, etc.
[0035] Each statement of an embodiment, or example, is to be
considered independent of any other statement of an embodiment
despite any use of similar or identical language characterizing
each embodiment. Therefore, where one embodiment is identified as
"another embodiment," the identified embodiment is independent of
any other embodiments characterized by the language "another
embodiment." The features, functions, and the like described herein
are considered to be able to be combined in whole or in part one
with another as the claims and/or art may direct, either directly
or indirectly, implicitly or explicitly.
[0036] As used herein, "comprising," "including," "containing,"
"is," "are," "characterized by," and grammatical equivalents
thereof are inclusive or open-ended terms that do not exclude
additional unrecited elements or method steps. "Comprising" is to
be interpreted as including the more restrictive terms "consisting
of" and "consisting essentially of."
[0037] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a condiment packet,
according to one embodiment of the invention. There is shown a
condiment packet 10 including a seal 16. The illustrated condiment
packet is formed as a "blister" style packet wherein two matched
films are coupled about the edges, thereby forming a cavity there
between wherein material may be disposed. The two films may be
welded, compressed, glued, or the like or combinations thereof so
that under storage conditions the films remain coupled in a
fluid-tight seal. The films may be substantially flat or may
include irregularities such that a volume of the cavity may be
increased by the same. The packet may include serrated edges to
facilitate tearing. The films may include one or more layers of
metal foil, plastic, textile, or the like or combinations thereof
to provide desired characteristics. The packet may be rectangular,
square, circular, polygonal, irregularly shaped and/or the like and
combinations thereof. In one non-limiting embodiment, the unfolded
packet may have a length to width ratio of greater than about
1.6:1, 2:1, 3:1, and/or 4:1.
[0038] The illustrated condiment packet 10 includes an exterior
fold region 14 disposed on an exterior of the folded packet,
exterior the packet contents and opposite an interior fold region.
The exterior fold region 14 is configured to provide a means for
the condiment packet 10 to be folded over on itself. The
illustrated exterior fold region 14 is folded substantially along a
centerline 15 of the condiment packet 10, when folded length-wise
over itself. The illustrated packet, when folded over, includes
substantially equal lengths extending from the exterior fold region
14. Accordingly, the folded packet reduces the total volume
capacity of the packet, thereby altering a force-pressure curve of
the packet, such that when force is applied to the packet an
internal pressure of the contents is increased to a higher amount
than what would occur were the packet in an unfolded state. This
effect is strong wherein the packet is not narrowed or otherwise of
a shape or configuration having a reduced volume about the folded
region. This is especially true wherein the packet has a more
unitary aspect ratio between the thickness and the width and/or
height. Typical packets have a small aspect ratio, the thickness is
small compared to the width and/or height. In one embodiment, one
or more aspect ratios of the thickness to the width and/or height
of a single chamber packet is greater than about 0.2, 0.3, 0.4,
0.5, 0.7, 0.9, and/or 1.0.
[0039] Packet volume about the fold region is substantially reduced
to zero in operation, thereby effectively eliminating access to
such volume as pressure is applied to the packet. Having an
enhanced force curve permits easier and more controlled content
discharge over the volume of the materials. A low force curve
requires repositioning the fingers during discharge, thereby
increasing the likelihood of creating a mess.
[0040] The packet 10 includes a quantity of a condiment confined
within a single chamber of the packet 10. Non-limiting examples of
a quantity of condiment disposed within the packet may be: ketchup,
mustard, mayonnaise, relish, tartar sauce, vinegar, soy sauce, etc.
One skilled in the art would appreciate that the quantity of
condiment may also include, but not limited to: paints, creams,
makeup, nail polish, peanut butter, jelly, adhesives, gels,
shampoo, soaps, icing, frosting, etc. The illustrated packet 10
includes a seal 16 disposed on the exterior fold region 14 about
the centerline 15. The seal 16 includes a first mode, wherein the
seal prevents the quantity of condiment from leaving the packet 10.
The seal 16 includes a second mode 18, wherein the seal 16 permits
the quantity of condiment to leave the packet 10. As a non-limiting
example, the illustrated seal 16 may be include an aperture sealed
by a film having a lower pressure tolerance than that of the rest
of the packet, such that when force is applied to the folded
packet, a threshold may be reached wherein the film ruptures and
condiment may subesquently be dispensed therefrom. In another
embodiment, the film may be removed by abrasion, puncture, cut, or
the like. Removal may be facilitated by structural deficiencies in
the film such as but not limited to perforations, sections, lines,
or portions of weaker material, thinner construction, brittle
material, and the like and combinations thereof. A seal may include
a cover member, such as but not limited to an adhesive tab, a cap,
and the like and combinations thereof.
[0041] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a condiment packet in use,
according to one embodiment of the invention. There is shown a
condiment packet 10 in a second mode 18, dispensing a quantity of
condiment 22 through an unsealed aperture through the exterior fold
region 14 of the packet 10.
[0042] The illustrated condiment packet 10 includes an exterior
fold region 14, wherein the packet 10 is folded over on itself. The
packet 10 includes a quantity of a condiment 22 confined within a
single chamber of the packet 10. The packet 10 includes a seal 16
disposed on the exterior fold region 14 configured to permit the
quantity of condiment to leave the packet 10 therethrough. The
illustrated seal 16 is in a second mode 18, wherein the seal 16
permits the quantity of condiment 22 to leave the packet 10. The
illustrated condiment packet 10 is configured for one hand
operation, wherein a thumb 24 and a forefinger 26 apply pressure to
the ends of the folded over condiment packet 10, wherein the
quantity of condiment 22 leaves the packet 10 through the seal 16.
By applying pressure to the ends of the condiment packet 10, the
pressure within the condiment packet 10 increases to the point
where the quantity of condiment 22 is dispersed through the seal
16.
[0043] In operation of one embodiment of the invention, a user
grasps a condiment packet and folds the packet over itself,
lengthwise. The user grips the folded condiment packet with a first
hand. The user then opens a seal of the folded condiment packet
with a second hand, while holding the packet with the first hand.
The user squeezes the condiment packet with the first hand, thereby
dispensing the quantity of condiment out of the seal and onto the
user's food or plate. Without applying any pressure to the single
chamber condiment packet, the quantity of condiment will not flow
out of the aperture.
[0044] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a condiment packet,
according to one embodiment of the invention. There is shown a
condiment packet 10 having a selectably removable tab 12 covering a
seal 16.
[0045] The illustrated condiment packet 10 includes an exterior
fold region 14, wherein the packet 10 is folded over on itself. The
packet 10 includes a quantity of a condiment confined within a
single chamber of the packet 10. The packet 10 includes a seal 16
disposed on the exterior fold region 14 and covered by a selectable
removable tab 12. The illustrated selectably removable tab 12 is
attached to the exterior fold region 14 and configured to secure to
over the seal 16, thereby preventing the quantity of condiment from
leaving the packet 10. The illustrated packet 10 is in a first mode
20, wherein the selectably removable tab 12 prevents the quantity
of condiment from leaving the packet 10. The selectably removable
tab 12 is attached to the exterior fold region 14 by an adhesive
such as but not limited to a food-grade adhesive such as but not
limited to an adhesive strip as disclosed in U.S. Patent
Publication No.: 2010/0264151 by Reddy-Wynn; or a adhesive as
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,071,280, issued to Ikeda et al. The
removable tab may tag extending from a cover such that the cover
may be coupled to the exterior fold region about an aperture ad a
user may grasp the tag and thereby pull the cover free of the
aperture.
[0046] In operation of one embodiment of the invention, a user
grasps a condiment packet and folds the packet over itself,
lengthwise. The user grips the folded condiment packet with a first
hand and rips off the selectably removable tab and opens the seal.
The user squeezes the condiment packet with the first hand, thereby
dispensing the quantity of condiment out of the seal and onto the
user's food or plate.
[0047] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a condiment packet,
according to one embodiment of the invention. There is shown a
condiment packet 10 including a seal 16 having a perforated region
30.
[0048] The illustrated condiment packet 10 includes an exterior
fold region 14, wherein a packet 10 is configured to be folded over
on itself. The packet 10 includes a quantity of a condiment
confined within a single chamber of the packet 10. The packet 10
includes a seal 16 disposed on the exterior fold region 14 of the
packet 10. The illustrated seal 16 is in a first mode 20, wherein
the seal 16 prevents the quantity of condiment from leaving the
packet 10. The seal 16 includes a perforated region 30 configured
to rupture when pressure is applied to the folded over condiment
packet 10. The illustrated perforated region 30 includes a
plurality of perforations disposed about the exterior fold region
14 of the packet 10. The plurality of perforations are configured
to rupture and release the quantity of condiment disposed therein,
wherein pressure is applied to the ends of the condiment packet 10;
thereby increasing the pressure within the packet and rupturing the
plurality of perforations.
[0049] In one non-limiting embodiment, the perforations form a
linear array, a star shape (similar or identical to that
illustrated in FIG. 4), a circle, a square, an irregular shape, and
the like and combinations thereof.
[0050] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a condiment packet,
according to one embodiment of the invention. There is shown a
condiment packet 10 having a seal 16 including a pressure sensitive
seal aperture 40.
[0051] The illustrated condiment packet 10 includes an exterior
fold region 14, wherein the packet 10 is folded over on itself; and
includes a quantity of a condiment confined within a single chamber
of the packet 10. The packet 10 includes a seal 16 disposed on the
exterior fold region 14. The illustrated seal 16 is in a first mode
20, wherein the seal 16 prevents the quantity of condiment from
leaving the packet 10. The seal 16 includes a pressure sensitive
seal aperture 40 configured to rupture when pressure is applied to
the folded over packet 10. The pressure sensitive seal aperture 40
includes a weakened seal aperture, wherein the weakened seal
aperture is configured to rupture when pressure within the packet
exceeds the pressure holding the weakened seal aperture
together.
[0052] In operation of one embodiment of the invention, a user
grasps a condiment packet and folds the packet over itself,
lengthwise. The user grips the folded condiment packet with a first
hand and applies pressure with the thumb and forefinger on one hand
to the ends of the condiment packet to rupture the seal. The user
squeezes the condiment packet with the first hand, thereby
dispensing the quantity of condiment out of the seal and onto the
user's food or plate.
[0053] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a folded-over condiment
packet, according to one embodiment of the invention. There is
shown a condiment packet 10 including a break-away nub 50.
[0054] The illustrated condiment packet 10 includes an exterior
fold region 14, wherein the packet 10 includes a single chamber and
is folded over on itself; and includes a quantity of a condiment
confined therein. The packet 10 includes a seal disposed on the
exterior fold region 14. The illustrated packet 10 is in a first
mode 20, wherein the seal prevents the quantity of condiment from
leaving the packet 10. The illustrated seal includes a break-away
nub 50. The break-away nub 50 is configured to secure over the seal
and prevent the quantity of condiment from leaving the condiment
packet 10 when in the first mode 20. The break-away nub 50 is
configured to break-away from the exterior fold region 14 when
lateral pressure is applied thereto. The break-away nub 50 is
configured to detach from the exterior fold region and permit the
quantity of condiment to leave the condiment packet 10. The
break-away nub includes a protrusion coupled to a seal such that
the protrusion may be caught by a finger, table corner, knuckle,
spoon, or the like or combinations thereof and in doing so
leveraged pressure may be applied to the seal such that it is
ruptured and the protrusion facilitates the same. In one
embodiment, a break-away nub includes a rigid material, such as but
not limited to a hard plastic, wood, metal, ceramic, or the like
and combinations thereof.
[0055] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a bellows style condiment
packet, according to one embodiment. There is shown a bellows-style
condiment packet 60 including a selectably removable tab 81. The
illustrated bellows-style condiment packet 60 includes a large
aspect ratio of thickness to length of the packet. The dotted line
illustrates a bellows-style condiment packet in a discharging mode
wherein the top (front) surface is folded over an exterior fold
region, thereby compressing the contents thereof. The bottom (rear)
surface is wrinkled as the contents are discharged, thereby forming
an interior fold region. Operation, shape, and function of the
bellows-style condiment packet resembles that of a bellows.
[0056] The illustrated cube-shaped condiment packet 60 includes a
quantity of a condiment 86 confined with a single chamber 85. The
cube-shaped condiment packet 60 includes a selectably removable tab
81 configured to cover a seal aperture 87. The seal aperture 87 is
configured to seal the single chamber 85 of the packet 60. The
single chamber 85 includes the quantity of condiment 86 disposed
within the single chamber 85. The cube-shaped condiment packet 60
includes a top surface 82, a side surface 83 and a bottom surface
84. The illustrated packet 60 is in a first mode 20, wherein the
selectably removable tab 81 prevents the quantity of condiment 86
from leaving the packet 60. The selectably removable tab 81 is
configured to secure over the seal aperture 87 and prevent the
quantity of condiment 86 from leaving the condiment packet 60 when
in the first mode 20. The selectably removable tab 81 is configured
to be removable, by peeling back on the tab 81. The tab 81 is
configured to detach from the top surface 82 of the packet 60 and
permit the quantity of condiment 86 to leave the condiment packet
60.
[0057] In one embodiment of the illustrated bellows-style condiment
packet, the top 82 wall is more rigid than the bottom 84 and/or the
side 83, accordingly the more rigid walls will tend to deform less
during use, thereby providing compression without deforming the
interface between the users fingers and the packet. The top 82 may
include a less rigid section about the fold region, thereby
facilitating folding of the packet.
[0058] In operation of one embodiment of the invention, a user
grasps a bellows-style condiment packet and removes the selectably
removable tab from the top surface of the packet. The user applies
pressure on the side surfaces, towards the bottom surface, of the
packet, thereby creating a bellow-like shape. The user grips the
side surfaces of the packet with a thumb and middle finger, while
the forefinger applies pressure to the bottom surface of the
packet. The quantity of condiment is then released through the seal
aperture of the packet. The user squeezes the condiment packet with
the first hand, thereby dispensing the quantity of condiment out of
the seal and onto the user's food or plate.
[0059] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a condiment packet,
according to one embodiment of the invention. There is shown a
condiment packet 10 including a selectably openable aperture 70
having a perforated region 30.
[0060] The illustrated condiment packet 10 includes a central
region 75, wherein the packet 10 is configured to be folded over on
itself. The condiment packet 10 includes a substantially flat
single-chamber container. The packet 10 includes a quantity of a
condiment confined within the packet 10. The packet 10 includes a
selectably openable aperture 70 disposed on the central region 75
of the packet 10. The illustrated selectably openable aperture 70
is in a first mode 20, wherein the aperture 70 prevents the
quantity of condiment from leaving the packet 10. The illustrated
selectably openable aperture 70 includes a perforated region 30
configured to rupture when pressure is applied to a folded over
condiment packet 10. The illustrated perforated region 30 includes
a plurality of perforations disposed about the central region 75 of
the packet 10. The plurality of perforations are configured to
rupture and release the quantity of condiment disposed therein,
wherein pressure is applied to the ends of the condiment packet 10;
thereby increasing the pressure within the packet and rupturing the
plurality of perforations.
[0061] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of a condiment packet,
according to one embodiment of the invention. There is shown a
condiment packet 10 including a break-away nub 50.
[0062] The illustrated condiment packet 10 includes a central
region 75, wherein the packet 10 includes a single chamber
configured to fold over on itself. The packet 10 also includes a
quantity of a condiment confined therein. The packet 10 includes a
seal disposed on the central region 75. The illustrated packet 10
is in a first mode 20, wherein the seal prevents the quantity of
condiment from leaving the packet 10. The illustrated seal includes
a break-away nub 50. The break-away nub 50 is configured to secure
over the seal and prevent the quantity of condiment from leaving
the condiment packet 10 when in the first mode 20. The break-away
nub 50 is configured to break-away from the central region 75 when
lateral pressure is applied thereto. The break-away nub 50 is
configured to detach from the central region 75 and permit the
quantity of condiment to leave the condiment packet 10.
[0063] It is understood that the above-described embodiments are
only illustrative of the application of the principles of the
present invention. The present invention may be embodied in other
specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics. The described embodiment is to be considered in
all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of
the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims
rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come
within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be
embraced within their scope.
[0064] For example, although the Figures illustrate a rectangular
selectably removable tab, one skilled in the art would appreciate
that the tab may vary in size, shape, design, configuration, color,
length, height, width, thickness, etc. and still perform its
intended function.
[0065] Additionally, although the figures illustrate a circular
break-away nub, one skilled in the art would appreciate that the
nub may vary in size, shape, design, configuration, color, length,
height, width, thickness, etc. and still perform its intended
function.
[0066] It is envisioned that, one skilled in the art would
appreciate that the packet may vary in size, shape, design,
configuration, color, length, height, width, thickness, etc. and
still perform its intended function. In particular, one skilled in
the art would appreciate that the seal, and the seal aperture is
configured to be dispense a condiment including chunky bits or
solid contents disposed within the quantity of condiment and still
performs its intended function.
[0067] It is also envisioned that, one skilled in the art would
appreciate that the cube-shaped packet (bellows-style packet) may
include a vent configured to vent the interior of the packet before
exiting the quantity of condiment out of the seal; wherein the
packet still perform its intended function.
[0068] Further, while the contents of the packet are described as
condiments, it is understood that other contents may be utilized
including but not limited to adhesives, paints, frosting, craft
fluids, other fluids, semi-fluids, suspended solids, and the like
and combinations thereof.
[0069] Finally, it is envisioned that the components of the device
may be constructed of a variety of materials, such as, but not
limited to: plastic, plastic composite, rubber, rubber composite,
textiles, metals, metal alloys, glass, etc. and still perform its
intended function.
[0070] Thus, while the present invention has been fully described
above with particularity and detail in connection with what is
presently deemed to be the most practical and preferred embodiment
of the invention, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in
the art that numerous modifications, including, but not limited to,
variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of
operation, assembly and use may be made, without departing from the
principles and concepts of the invention as set forth in the
claims. Further, it is contemplated that an embodiment may be
limited to consist of or to consist essentially of one or more of
the features, functions, structures, methods described herein.
* * * * *