U.S. patent application number 13/857360 was filed with the patent office on 2013-08-29 for labels, related pads thereof, and related methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is Avery Dennison Corporation. Invention is credited to Adam Bratter, Debbie Caton, Peggy Diaz, Tracey Glenn, Douglas Wilson.
Application Number | 20130221651 13/857360 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44814880 |
Filed Date | 2013-08-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130221651 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bratter; Adam ; et
al. |
August 29, 2013 |
LABELS, RELATED PADS THEREOF, AND RELATED METHODS
Abstract
A pad is provided that includes a plurality of labels each
including a body portion having an area, a front surface, and a
back surface. Each of the plurality of labels also includes a tab
portion having an area less than the area of the body portion, and
a back surface that is integrally coupled to and extending from an
end of the body portion. A line of weakness divides the tab portion
and the body portion, and allows the tab portion to be selectively
separable from the body portion along the line of weakness. A layer
of adhesive is provided on the back surface of the body portion
where the majority of the back surface of the tab portion is free
of adhesive, and the plurality of labels are stacked such that an
overlying label is releasably adhered to the front surface of an
adjacent underlying label via the adhesive layer.
Inventors: |
Bratter; Adam; (Newport
Coast, CA) ; Wilson; Douglas; (San Dimas, CA)
; Caton; Debbie; (Redondo Beach, CA) ; Glenn;
Tracey; (Altadena, CA) ; Diaz; Peggy;
(Ontario, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Avery Dennison Corporation; |
|
|
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
44814880 |
Appl. No.: |
13/857360 |
Filed: |
April 5, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12831245 |
Jul 6, 2010 |
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13857360 |
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29360189 |
Apr 21, 2010 |
D683397 |
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12831245 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
281/21.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 428/1476 20150115;
B32B 37/1292 20130101; B32B 2307/718 20130101; B42D 1/00 20130101;
B32B 2038/047 20130101; Y10T 428/15 20150115; G09F 2003/0222
20130101; G09F 2003/0226 20130101; G09F 2003/0267 20130101; B32B
37/02 20130101; B32B 38/0004 20130101; B32B 2519/00 20130101; Y10T
156/1062 20150115; B32B 38/145 20130101; G09F 3/0288 20130101; B32B
2309/105 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
281/21.1 |
International
Class: |
B42D 1/00 20060101
B42D001/00 |
Claims
1-16. (canceled)
17. A pad comprising: a plurality of labels, wherein: each of the
plurality of labels including: a body portion having an area, a
front surface, and a back surface, a tab portion having an area and
a back surface, the tab portion integrally coupled to the body
portion and extending from an end of the body portion, a line of
weakness dividing the tab portion and the body portion, the line of
weakness being formed such that the tab portion is separable from
the body portion along the line of weakness, a layer of adhesive
provided on the back surface of the body portion of the label, a
majority of the back surface of the tab portion of the label is
free of adhesive, the area of the tab portion is less than the area
of the body portion, and the plurality of labels are stacked one on
top of the other such that an overlying label is releasably adhered
to the front surface of an adjacent underlying label via the
adhesive layer on the back surface of the overlying label.
18. The pad accordingly to claim 17, further comprising: a release
liner to which a bottom-most label in the pad is releasably adhered
via the adhesive layer on the back surface of the bottom-most
label, the release liner having an outer periphery that
substantially matches an outer periphery of the labels.
19. The pad accordingly to claim 17, wherein at least one of the
plurality of labels includes a pair of notches formed in the edges
of the label, the notches being co-located with opposing ends of
the line of weakness.
20. The pad accordingly to claim 17, wherein the layer of adhesive
includes an adhesive selected from the group including a removable
pressure sensitive adhesive and an ultra-removable pressure
sensitive adhesive.
21. The pad accordingly to claim 17, wherein: the plurality of
labels includes at least one label having a front surface and an
opposite adhesive-bearing back surface; and a release coating
provided on the front surface of the at least one label opposite
the adhesive-bearing back surface.
22. The pad accordingly to claim 53, wherein the graphic includes a
loop arranged proximate to a border of the body portion of the
label.
23. The pad accordingly to claim 21, wherein the graphic includes a
stripe arranged proximate to at least one edge of the label.
24-46. (canceled)
47. The pad accordingly to claim 17, wherein the layer of adhesive
of at least one label of the plurality of labels extends over the
line of weakness to partially cover the back surface of the tab
portion of the at least one label of the plurality of labels.
48. The pad accordingly to claim 17, wherein the layer of adhesive
of at least one label of the plurality of labels covers
substantially all of the back surface of the body portion of the at
least one label of the plurality of labels.
49. The pad accordingly to claim 17, wherein: the plurality of
labels includes at least one label having a thickness; and the line
of weakness dividing the tab portion and the body portion is a
perforated line including a plurality of discontinuous breaks
extending through the thickness of the label of the plurality of
labels with intermittent lands of intact areas being arranged
between adjacent discontinuous breaks.
50. The pad accordingly to claim 17, wherein: the plurality of
labels includes at least one label having an edge and an opposing
edge; and the line of weakness dividing the tab portion and the
body portion extends from the edge of the at least one label to the
opposing edge of the at least one label.
51. The pad accordingly to claim 19, wherein: the tab portion
includes at least one rounded corner; the body portion includes at
least one rounded corner; and the at least one rounded corner of
the tab portion of the at least one of the plurality of labels and
the at least one rounded corner of the body portion of the at least
one of the plurality of labels forms one of the notches.
52. The pad accordingly to claim 17, wherein the line of weakness
dividing the tab portion and the body portion is a substantially
straight line having a pair of arced segments at opposing ends
thereof, each of the arced segments forming at least one rounded
corner on the body portion of the at least one of the plurality of
labels.
53. The pad accordingly to claim 21, wherein: the at least one
label includes a preprinted graphic on the front surface opposite
the adhesive-bearing back surface.
54. The pad accordingly to claim 53, further comprising a release
coating provided on the front surface of the at least one label
opposite the adhesive-bearing back surface.
55. The pad accordingly to claim 54, wherein the release coating is
printable or writable.
56. The pad accordingly to claim 54, further comprising a
preprinted graphic on the front surface of the at least one label
opposite the adhesive-bearing back surface, the preprinted graphic
is located under the release coating.
57. The pad accordingly to claim 17, wherein the layer of adhesive
is pattern coated.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a divisional of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/831,245, filed Jul. 6, 2010, entitled
"Labels, Related Pads Thereof, and Related Methods" by Adam
Bratter, Douglas Wilson, Debbie Caton, Tracey Glenn, and Peggy
Diaz, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 29/360,189, filed Apr. 21, 2010, entitled "Labels and
Related Pads of Labels" by Adam Bratter, Douglas Wilson, Debbie
Caton, Tracey Glenn, and Peggy Diaz, both of which are incorporated
herein by reference in their entireties.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present inventive subject matter relates generally to
the art of adhesive-backed labels. Particular relevance is found in
connection with labels having substantially adhesive-free tabs, and
accordingly the present specification makes specific reference
thereto. However, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the
present inventive subject matter are also equally amenable to other
like applications.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Adhesive-backed labels are generally known. However, some
prior art adhesive-backed labels can exhibit certain drawbacks. For
example, adhesive-backed labels are known to be provided in sheets
and/or rolls containing multiple labels. In these cases, the labels
are commonly arranged on a release liner which is generally
unwanted waste material. As each label traditionally occupies its
own area on the release liner, a substantial amount of release
liner is typically used in such applications.
[0004] Additionally, traditional adhesive-backed labels have a
layer of adhesive covering the entire back surface thereof.
Accordingly, it is difficult to grasp and/or apply the labels
without touching or coming into contact with the adhesive.
[0005] Accordingly, a new and/or improved adhesive-backed label
and/or pads thereof are disclosed which address the
above-referenced problem(s) and/or others.
SUMMARY
[0006] In accordance with one exemplary embodiment, a pad including
a plurality of labels is provided. Each of the plurality of labels
includes a body portion having an area, a front surface, and a back
surface. Each of the plurality of labels also includes a tab
integrally coupled to the body portion and extending from an end of
the body portion. A line of weakness divides the tab portion and
the body portion, and the line of weakness is formed such that the
tab portion is selectively separable from the body portion along
the line of weakness. A layer of adhesive is provided on the back
surface of the body portion of the label, and a majority of the
back surface of the tab portion is free of adhesive. The area of
the tab portion is less than the area of the body portion. The
plurality of labels is stacked one on top of the other such that
the overlying label is releasably adhered to the front surface of
the adjacent underlying label via the adhesive layer on the back
surface of the overlying label.
[0007] In other, more detailed features of the invention, the layer
of adhesive of at least one of the plurality of labels can extend
over the line of weakness to partially cover the back surface of
the tab portion. Also, the layer of adhesive can be pattern coated.
In addition, the layer of adhesive can cover substantially all of
the back surface of the body portion of at least one of the
plurality of labels. The adhesive of the adhesive layer can also be
selected from the group including a removable pressure sensitive
adhesive and an ultra-removable adhesive.
[0008] In other, more detailed features of the invention, the
plurality of labels includes at least one label that has a
thickness and the line of weakness is a perforated line that
includes a plurality of discontinuous breaks extending through the
thickness of the at least one label of the plurality of labels with
intermittent lands of intact areas arranged between adjacent
discontinuous breaks. In other, more detailed features of the
invention, at least one of the plurality of labels has an edge and
an opposing edge, and the line of weakness can extend from the edge
of the label to the opposing edge of the label. The line of
weakness can also be substantially a straight line with a pair of
arced segments at opposing ends with each of the segments forming
at least one rounded corner on the body portion of the at least one
of the plurality of labels.
[0009] In other, more detailed features of the invention, the tab
portion of the at least one of the plurality of labels includes at
least one rounded corner and the body portion includes at least one
rounded corner. The at least one rounded corner of the tab portion
of the at least one of the plurality of labels and the at least one
rounded corner of the body portion form a notch. The label can
include a pair of notches formed in the edges of the label, with
the notches being co-located with opposing ends of the line of
weakness. Also, each notch can be formed from at least one rounded
corner of the tab portion of the at least one of the plurality of
labels and at least one rounded corner of the body portion of the
at least one of the plurality of labels.
[0010] In other, more detailed features of the invention, at least
one of the plurality of labels has a front surface and an opposite
adhesive-bearing back surface. The at least one of the plurality of
labels further includes a release coating provided on the front
surface of the label opposite the adhesive-bearing back surface.
Also, the release coating can be printable or writable.
[0011] In other, more detailed features of the invention, the at
least one of the plurality of labels further includes a preprinted
graphic on the front surface of the label opposite the
adhesive-bearing back surface. Additionally, the graphic can be a
loop arranged proximate to the border of the body portion of the
label. Also, the graphic can be a stripe arranged proximate to at
least one edge of the label. Furthermore, the preprinted graphic
can be under the release coating.
[0012] In other, more detailed features of the invention, the pad
further includes a release liner to which the bottom-most label in
the pad is releasably adhered via the adhesive layer on the back
surface of the bottom-most label. The release liner has an outer
periphery that substantially matches an outer periphery of the
labels.
[0013] Numerous advantages and benefits of the inventive subject
matter disclosed herein will become apparent to those of ordinary
skill in the art upon reading and understanding the present
specification.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING(S)
[0014] The inventive subject matter disclosed herein can take form
in various components and arrangements of components, and in
various steps and arrangements of steps. The drawings are only for
purposes of illustrating preferred embodiments and are not to be
construed as limiting. Further, it is to be appreciated that the
drawings may not be to scale.
[0015] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a
label having an attached tab having two rounded corners that is
configured to be separated from the label along a perforation.
[0016] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a
label having an attached rounded tab that is configured to be
separated from the label along a perforation.
[0017] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a
label having an attached triangular tab that is configured to be
separated from the label along a perforation.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a
label having an attached pentagonal tab that is configured to be
separated from the label along a perforation.
[0019] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a
label having an attached rectangular tab that is configured to be
separated from the label along a perforation.
[0020] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a
label having two rounded corners and an attached tab having two
rounded corners that is configured to be separated from the label
along a perforation.
[0021] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a
label having four rounded corners and an attached tab having four
rounded corners that is configured to be separated from the label
along a perforation.
[0022] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a
label having four rounded corners and an attached tab having two
rounded corners that is configured to be separated from the label
along a perforation having two curved portions.
[0023] FIG. 9a is cross section view taken along section line A-A
of FIG. 1, showing one exemplary embodiment of a multi-layer
construction of the label.
[0024] FIG. 9b is a cross section view showing an alternate
embodiment of a multi-layer construction, with preprinted indicia
residing below the release coat layer.
[0025] FIG. 10 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a
label having a rounded-edge rectangular border on the label's top
surface, and the label having an attached tab with two rounded
corners that is configured to be separated from the label along a
perforation.
[0026] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a
label having an attached tab having two rounded corners that is
configured to be separated from the label along a perforation, and
the label and tab having a border along one edge of the label and
the tab.
[0027] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of another exemplary embodiment
of a label having a border along one edge of the label, and an
attached tab having two rounded corners that is configured to be
separated from the label along a perforation.
[0028] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view showing an exemplary pad
of labels including a plurality of the labels from FIG. 1 stacked
one on top of the other and including a carrier sheet.
[0029] FIG. 14 is a side elevational view of the exemplary pad
illustrated in FIG. 13.
[0030] FIG. 15 is a top perspective view showing one exemplary
embodiment of a multi-pad configuration (also referred to as a
package) in accordance with aspects of the present inventive
subject matter, the multi-pad configuration including a plurality
of the pads illustrated in FIG. 13 on a shared bottom backing
card.
[0031] FIG. 16 is a top perspective view showing another exemplary
embodiment of a multi-pad configuration (also referred to as a
package) in accordance with aspects of the present inventive
subject matter, the multi-pad configuration being shown with a
support structure in a closed state and including a plurality of
the pads illustrated in FIG. 13 attached to a base of the support
structure.
[0032] FIG. 17 is a top perspective view of the multi-pad
configuration (also referred to as a package) shown in FIG. 16,
with the support structure in a partially opened state.
[0033] FIG. 18 is a top perspective view of the multi-pad
configuration (also referred to as a package) shown in FIG. 16,
with the support structure in a more fully opened state.
[0034] FIG. 19 is a flowchart for an exemplary method of
manufacturing a package that includes a pad of labels.
[0035] FIG. 20 is a flowchart for an exemplary method of using a
pad of labels.
[0036] FIG. 21 is a top plan view showing the tab portion being
removed from the body portion of a label after the label is
attached to an object.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT(S)
[0037] For clarity and simplicity, the present specification shall
refer to structural and/or functional elements, relevant standards
and/or protocols, and other components that are commonly known in
the art without further detailed explanation as to their
configuration or operation except to the extent they have been
modified or altered in accordance with and/or to accommodate the
preferred embodiment(s) presented herein.
[0038] With reference now to FIGS. 1-8, there are shown
adhesive-backed labels 10 according to various exemplary
embodiments of the present inventive subject matter. In each case,
the label 10 includes a generally rectangular body portion 12 and a
selectively removable tab portion 14 distinct from the body portion
12. Suitably, the body and tab portions 12 and 14 are joined to one
another or otherwise integrally formed. A line of weakness 16 is
formed in the label 10 thereby dividing the body and tab portions
12 and 14 from one another and/or otherwise defining the respective
distinct portions.
[0039] The exact shape or perimeter profile of the label 10 and/or
the respective portions thereof can vary in accordance with
particular embodiments. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the
label 10 can have a generally rectangular shaped tab portion 14
with corners 14a that are rounded; as illustrated in FIG. 2, the
label 10 can have a generally semi-circular shaped tab portion 14;
as illustrated in FIG. 3, the label can have a generally triangular
shaped tab portion 14; as illustrated in FIG. 4, the label 10 can
have a generally pentagonal shaped tab portion 14; as illustrated
in FIG. 5, the label 10 can have a generally rectangular shaped tab
portion 14, this time with corners 14a with edges that generally
form right angles; as illustrated in FIGS. 6-8, optionally the
corners 12a of the body portion 12 of the label 10 can also be
rounded; and, as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, optionally either
one or both the body portion 12 and the tab portion 14 can have
corners 12b and 14b, respectively, that are also rounded. Of
course, it is to be appreciated, that other suitable shapes and/or
perimeter profiles can also be employed for the body potion 12, the
tab portion 14 and/or the overall label 10.
[0040] Suitably, the label 10 has as overall length `l` and an
overall width `w`. For example, in one embodiment the label
suitably has an overall length dimension from approximately 1.5
inches to approximately 6.5 inches and an overall width dimension
from approximately 0.5 inch to approximately 3 inches. In any
event, the ratio of l:w is suitably from approximately 1:1 to
approximately 6:1. In alternative embodiments, the label has an
overall length dimension from approximately 3.5 inches to
approximately 4.5 inches, and an overall width dimension from
approximately 0.667 inch to approximately 2 inches. Of course, it
is to be appreciated, that other suitable dimensions can also be
employed for various embodiments of the label 10.
[0041] FIG. 9a shows an exemplary cross section of the label 10. As
shown, the cross section is taken along A-A through the embodiment
shown in FIG. 1, however, it is to be appreciated that the same or
similar cross section is also applicable to FIGS. 2-8. As shown,
the label 10 is suitably a coated, multi-layer and/or laminate
construction having a first or front surface 10a and an opposite
second or back surface 10b. The construction includes a base layer
20, e.g., such as paper. Optionally, the base layer 20 can also be
polymeric film, for example, polyolefin, polyvinylchloride,
polyester, polystyrene, polycarbonate, or other film-forming
polymer films; synthetic paper; laminated paper; or laminated
films. Suitably, the base layer 20 is a unitary and/or integral
material that extends and/or defines the entire expanse of the
label 10, including both the body and the tab portions 12 and 14.
In one suitable embodiment, the thickness of the base layer 20 is
from approximately 0.5 mil to approximately 10 mils, and in yet
another suitable embodiment, the base layer 20 is approximately 4
mils thick.
[0042] On a first major surface or back surface 22 of the base
layer 20, a removable or repositionable adhesive layer 30 is
provided. The adhesive used in adhesive layer 30 is, for example,
an ultra-removable (UR) pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), such as,
for example, UR2 (Avery Dennison Corporation of Pasadena, Calif.),
MICRONAX 240-00 (Franklin International of Columbus, Ohio), or
GEL-TAC (Paper Conversions, Inc. (PCI) of Syracuse, N.Y.) or
alternatively, for example, a removable PSA, such as, for example,
COVINAX 210-00 (Franklin International of Columbus, Ohio) or R-423
(Avery Dennison Corporation of Pasadena, Calif.). Suitable
adhesives, for example, include the ultra-removable, removable, and
repositionable adhesives disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,810,763 to
Mallya, et al.; 4,944,888 to Mallya, et al.; and 5,656,705 to
Mallya, et al., all of which are incorporated by reference herein
in their entirety. Optionally, a primer layer 32 is interposed
between the back surface 22 of the base layer 20 and the adhesive
layer 30 to enhance the anchorage of the adhesive layer 30 to the
base layer 20. Suitable primers for the primer layer 32 can be
prepared by using, for example, a pigment and a binder. Suitable
pigments include, for example, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium
carbonate, magnesium sulfate, calcium oxide, calcium hydroxide,
calcium carbonate, satin white, calcium silicate, zinc oxide,
titanium oxide, aluminum oxide, aluminum hydroxide, talc, or
kaolin. Suitable binders include, for example, starch, polyvinyl
alcohol, carboxymethylcellulose, styrene-butadiene copolymer, an
acrylic copolymer, or a vinyl acetate copolymer. For example,
suitable primers are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,670,226 to
Yoshizawa, et al., which is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety. Of course, any number of known primers can be used as
desired. The coat weight for the adhesive layer 30 and/or primer
layer 32, combined, is suitably in a range from approximately 4
grams per square meter (gsm) to approximately 15 gsm. In one
suitable embodiment, the coat weight is approximately 7 gsm, and in
another suitable embodiment the coat weight is approximately 13
gsm.
[0043] Suitably, the adhesive layer 30 covers all or most of the
back surface 10b' of the body portion 12 of the label 10, but does
not overlap the back surface 10b'' of the tab portion 14 of the
label 10. Alternatively, as illustrated, the adhesive layer 30 can
extend somewhat over the line of weakness 16 and onto the back
surface 22 of the base layer 20, which forms part of the tab
portion 14 of the label 10. In any event, however, the majority of
the back surface 10b'' of the tab portion 14 of the label 10 is
free from adhesive. For example, suitably the adhesive layer 30
does not extend more than approximately 0.08 inch past the line of
weakness 16, or by area, at least approximately 80% to
approximately 98% of the back surface 10b'' of the tab portion 14
of the label 10 is free from adhesive. In another suitable
embodiment, the adhesive layer 30 does not extend more than
approximately 0.04 inch past the line of weakness 16. In still
another embodiment, the adhesive layer does not extend more than
approximately 0.02 inch past the line of weakness 16.
[0044] As can be appreciated, the substantially complete coverage
of the back surface 10b' of the body portion 12 of the label 10
with adhesive layer 30 promotes better adhesion when the label 10
is adhered to a document, file folder or other object.
Alternatively, the adhesive layer 30 can be pattern coated or
otherwise cover less than the entire back surface 10b' of the body
portion 12 of the label 10.
[0045] With additional reference now to FIG. 13, it is to be
appreciated that optionally a plurality of labels 10 as described
herein can be provided in the form of a pad 100, i.e., with the
plurality of labels 10 being stacked one on top of the other such
that each overlying label 10 is removably and/or releasably adhered
to a front surface 10a of its adjacent underlying counterpart via
the adhesive layer 30 on the back surface 10b of the respective
label 10. As used herein, the term "plurality" means two or more.
Accordingly, depending on the aggressiveness of the adhesive layer
30 which is used on the back surfaces 10b of the labels 10,
optionally, a release coating or layer 42 (see FIGS. 9a and 9b) is
formed on the front surface 10a of each label 10 (e.g., on a second
major surface or front surface 24 of the base layer 20) to promote
the desired release of the adhesive layer 30 therefrom. Layers of
release coatings can be from approximately 0.2 mil to approximately
0.5 mil. Suitable release coatings for the release layer 42 include
SECOAT 163 (Omnova Solutions, Inc. of Fairlawn, Ohio) and RA-120W
(Mayzo, Inc. of Norcross, Ga.), for example. In addition, an
optional ink receptive or other suitable topcoat (not shown) can
also be employed to enhance the label's ability to receive and/or
retain markings, e.g., from ink, toner, highlighters, pens,
pencils, etc. It should be appreciated that an alternative to the
combination of ink receptive topcoat and release coating is a
printable or writable release system, for example, the release
systems as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,074,747 to Scholz, et al.,
U.S. Pat. No. 7,309,731 to Shih, et al. and WO 2000/052080 to
Hseih, et al., all of which are incorporated by reference herein in
their entirety.
[0046] Referring back to FIG. 9a, the optional release coat 42
covers all or most of the front surface 24 of the base layer 20,
i.e., including both the body and tab portions 12 and 14 of the
label 10. Alternatively, however, the optional release coat 42 can
only cover that area coextensive with the area where adhesive layer
30 resides on the opposite side of the base layer 20. In any event,
suitably the front surface 24 of the base layer 20 is writable or
retains good writability and/or ink reception properties, e.g.,
such that a user can mark the same as desired with a standard
writing implement, e.g., pencil, ballpoint pen, rollerball, gel
pen, highlighter, marker, etc., or with a typewriter, printer, or
copier.
[0047] In one suitable embodiment, the line of weakness 16 is
formed by a perforated or microperforated line extending
substantially the entire width `w` of the label 10, or from one
edge to an opposing edge. The line of weakness can be used to
separate the tab portion of the label from the body portion. The
perforated line is suitably made up of a plurality of discontinuous
cuts or breaks extending completely through the entire thickness
`t` of the label 10, with intermittent lands of uncut or intact
areas being arranged between adjacent cuts or breaks.
Alternatively, the line of weakness 16 can be formed by scoring, or
partial die or laser cutting, or other cutting which does not
extend entirely through the thickness T of the label 10. In any
event, suitably, the line of weakness 16 provides sufficient
strength to prevent inadvertent, unwanted or unintentional
separation or folding along the line 16 under normal use and/or
wear, while still facilitating easy separation along the line 16
when folding, tearing or other like forces are intentionally
applied. For example, where the base layer 20 is a 4 mils thick
paper and the line of weakness 16 is implemented as per the
previously described perforation, the perforated line is suitably
formed by cuts or breaks that measure approximately 0.04 inch in
length with interposed lands that measure approximately 0.04 inch
in length. Alternatively, the line of weakness 16 is a
microperforated line formed by equal lengths of cuts and lands of
approximately 33 cuts/inch. It should be appreciated that the exact
count and spacing of perforations is not critical, as long as the
line of weakness is sufficiently strong to facilitate removal of
the label from the pad, yet weak enough to facilitate removal of
the tab portion from the body portion when desired.
[0048] In suitable embodiments, the perforated line forming the
line of weakness 16 begins and ends at the edges of the label 10
with a land. A perforation with land elements at each end thereof
will promote resistance to tearing along the line of weakness 16,
unless and/or until a purposeful tearing or other like separating
force is applied.
[0049] Optionally, as shown in FIG. 7, the body portion 12 of the
label 10 is formed with rounded corners 12b and the tab portion 14
of the label 10 is formed with rounded corners 14b, thereby
defining a pair of notches 18 in opposing edges of the label 10.
Suitably, the notches 18 in the edges of the label 10 are
co-located with each end of the line of weakness 16. In this
manner, the notches 18 aid in identifying for the user the
locations of the line of weakness 16 and assist in directing and
easing separation along the line of weakness 16 when appropriate
tearing or other suitable forces are applied.
[0050] Suitably, the line of weakness 16 is a substantially
straight line that runs substantially parallel to the direction of
the width `w` of the label 10 and/or substantially normal to the
direction of the length `l` of the label 10, wherein the length `l`
defines the longer of the two mutually orthogonal outermost
dimensions of the label 10. See, e.g., FIGS. 1-7. For example, the
line of weakness 16 optionally divides the label 10 across its
length `l` so that the tab portion 14 has a length `l.sub.t` of
approximately 0.5 inch. Of course, other suitable dimensions for
`l.sub.t` are also possible for selected applications. Optionally,
as shown in FIG. 8, the line of weakness 16 can bend or arc at
opposing ends thereof to form and/or otherwise define rounded
corners 12b on the body portion 12 of the label 10.
[0051] With reference to FIGS. 10-12, optionally, the label 10 is
preprinted with selected graphics or other indicia on a front
surface 10a thereof. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the body
portion 12 of the label 10 is optionally preprinted with an annular
or closed loop graphic 62 proximal to the edge or border of the
body portion, i.e., at or near the periphery thereof. Specifically
shown in FIG. 10 is a rounded-edge rectangular border. Accordingly,
the graphic 62 can serve to readily identify for a user the
approximate bounds of the body portion 12 of the label 10, e.g., so
that a user can selectively confine their marking of the label 10
therein. In one embodiment, the label 10 is a file folder label,
for example, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. Optionally, e.g., as
shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the front surface 10a of the label 10 can
be preprinted with a thick line or stripe 64 located along the top
edge of the label 10 so as to extend across both the body portion
12 and tab portion 14 of the label 10 (FIG. 11), or the bar can be
located along a side edge of the label 10, e.g., so as to extend
across only the body portion 12 of the label 10 and not the tab
portion 14 (FIG. 12). Suitably, the bar 64 or the graphic 62 can be
color coded or otherwise used to communicate desired information to
a user or viewer of the label 10. Optionally, the border graphic 62
and/or bars 64 can be colored any variety of colors including, for
example, red, blue, green, yellow, black, or any combination
thereof. Of course, the color of the label 10 (with or without
preprinted graphics) can also similarly be provided in any of a
variety of colors, e.g., by using a base layer 20 of the
corresponding color desired. Suitably, the label 10 and/or base
layer 20 is provided in a neon color. While certain embodiments of
the label 10 have been used to illustrate the preprinting in FIGS.
10-12, it is to be appreciated that any of the label embodiments
disclosed herein can in practice be likewise preprinted.
[0052] With reference to FIG. 9b, optionally the preprinted
graphics and/or indicia are arranged below or underneath the
release coating 42 in an indicia or printing layer 60, e.g., which
can include the graphics 62 and/or 64. By arranging the indicia
layer 60 under the release coating 42, when the labels are arranged
in pad form as described herein, undesirable interactions between
the indicia layer 60 and the adhesive layer 30 can be avoided. For
example, an undesirable increase in adhesion between the labels 10
in the pad can be avoided, and the transfer of the indicia from an
underlying label 10 to the adhesive surface of the overlying label
10 can also be minimized.
[0053] As previously mentioned, suitably a plurality of labels 10
are arranged in a pad 100. Suitably, the labels 10 are stacked one
on top of the other to form the pad 100, with the front surfaces
10a of each label 10 facing in substantially the same first
direction (i.e. toward a top of the pad 100) and the bottom sides
10b of each label 10 facing in substantially the same opposing
direction (i.e., toward a bottom of the pad 100), with the tab
portions 14 substantially overlaying one another. FIGS. 13 and 14
illustrate one such exemplary pad 100 including labels 10 such as
the one illustrated in FIG. 1. However, it is to be appreciated
that the pad 100 can likewise include labels 10 according to any of
the embodiments described or contemplated herein. In alternative
embodiments, labels 10 can be stacked such that the tab portion 14
overlays the body portion 12 of the underlying label.
[0054] In addition to the labels 10, optionally the pad 100
includes a release liner 110 on the bottom of the pad 100. The
release liner is also known as a carrier sheet. As shown in FIGS.
13 and 14, the release liner 110 has a similarly shaped perimeter
or profile that matches the labels 10 stacked on top thereof.
Suitably, the release liner 110 is formed from any suitable release
liner material, e.g., such a siliconized or calendared paper or
other known release liner material. In this manner, the bottom-most
label 10 in the pad 100 (i.e., that label 10 immediately adjacent
the release liner 110) is releasably adhered to the release liner
110 via the adhesive layer 30 on the back surface 10b of the
bottom-most label 10 in the pad 100.
[0055] With reference now to FIGS. 15-18, multiple pads 100 can
optionally be packaged together, e.g., in a side-by-side
arrangement, to form a package. Suitably, as in the package 95
shown in FIG. 15, the pads 100 can be mounted or otherwise affixed
to a support structure 200. In one embodiment, for example, the
release liner 110 of each pad 100 can be secured to the support
structure 200 via a suitable adhesive or the like, such as a
permanent PSA. In practice, the support structure 200 can be formed
from a suitably thick and/or rigid material such as cardboard,
heavy-weight paper, film, or laminates thereof, or other rigid
materials that can be folded or made to fold. In any event, the
support structure material is substantially more rigid than the
labels 10 or the release liner 110. In alternative embodiments, the
support structure 200 can be coated with a release material, and a
pad 100, or plurality of pads 100, can be directly mounted onto the
release-coated layer of the support structure without the use of an
intermediate release liner.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 15, the support structure 200 is
implemented as a simple planar base 202 to which two pads 100 are
attached. However, in the package 105 shown in FIGS. 16-18, the
support structure 200 optionally includes, in addition to the
substantially planar base 202 carrying the pads 100, a
substantially planar cover 204 (also referred to as a flap)
connected to the base 202 via a hinge 206 so as to be selectively
opened and closed by a user. More specifically, FIG. 16 shows the
cover 204 of the package in a closed position wherein the pads 100
are sandwiched between the cover 204 of the package and the base
202 to which the pads 100 are attached. FIG. 17 shows the cover 204
of the package in a partially opened position such that the pads
100 attached to the base 202 are partially revealed, and FIG. 18
shows the cover 204 of the package in a more fully opened position,
where the pads 100 attached to the base 202 are more fully
revealed. Suitably, the support structure 200 illustrated in FIGS.
16-18 is formed from an integral sheet of material folded along a
pair of fold lines 208 that define the respective portions of the
support structure 200, namely, the base 202, the hinge 206 and the
cover 204. The fold lines 208 can be formed by scoring, or partial
die or laser cutting, or other cutting which does not extend
entirely through the support structure. Suitably, the height `h` of
the hinge 206 is made to accommodate the maximum height `h.sub.p`
of the pads 100 so that when the support structure 200 is in its
fully closed state with the cover 204 touching the tops of the pads
100 at their maximum height `h.sub.p`, the cover 204 is
substantially parallel to the base 202.
[0057] As shown in FIGS. 15-18, each package includes two or three
pads 100. However, it is to be appreciated that in practice a given
package can optionally include more pads or fewer pads 100 as
desired. In particular, embodiments, such as those in FIGS. 16-18,
the package can be referred to as a book or booklet. Also as shown,
each package includes pads 100 of the same label 10, namely, the
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1. It is to be appreciated however
that the pads 100 contained in the package can in practice include
labels 10 in accordance with any of the embodiments disclosed
herein, and that different pads 100 can include different label
embodiments. Suitably, each pad 100 in the package includes labels
10 of the same type and a given package can include two or more
different types of pads 100. For example, a given package can
include different pads 100 each having labels 10 of a different
size; or one pad 100 can contain labels 10 of one color and another
pad 100 can contain labels of another color; or one pad 100 can
include labels 10 with preprinted graphics while another pad 100 in
the package includes otherwise blank labels 10.
[0058] An exemplary method of manufacture, as shown in FIG. 19,
includes providing a paper base layer, an adhesive, and optional
components such as a release material and primers in step 400. In
step 405, the paper base layer is printed with indicia, if needed,
coated on a first side with a primer, if needed, and followed by
coating the release material, if needed. In step 410, the paper
base layer is coated on a second side with a primer, if needed,
followed by coating the adhesive to form label stock. The label
stock is perforated and sheeted in step 415. The individual sheets
are stacked upon one another to form a stack of sheets in step 420.
The stack of sheets is adhered to a carrier sheet in step 425 and
die cut into pads of labels in step 430. The carrier sheet on the
pad is glued to a backing card, or alternatively, pads are attached
to a release-coated backing card in step 435.
[0059] An exemplary method of using the labels, as shown in FIG.
20, includes writing on a label at step 440. The method also
includes removing the uppermost label from the pad of labels at
step 445 and applying the removed label to an object at step 450.
The step of writing on the label can be performed before or after
the steps of removing the label for the pad and applying the
removed label to the object. The tab portion of the label is
optionally removed at step 455. Optionally, when the adhered label
is no longer needed or is at the end of its useful life, the label
can be removed from the object with no damage to the object at step
460.
[0060] In practice, a user can selectively remove a label 10 from
the pad 100, e.g., by grasping the tab portion 14 and lifting the
label 10 off of the pad 100. The substantial lack of adhesive on
the back surface 10b of the tab portion 14 of the label 10 results
in the tab portion 14 not adhering to the underlying label 10 in
the pad 100. Accordingly, the tab portion 14 remains easily
grasped, e.g., between the thumb and forefinger of a user.
Moreover, the substantially adhesive-free tab portion 14 provides a
place for the user to grasp the label 10 without getting adhesive
on their fingers or without the label sticking to their
fingers.
[0061] Via the now exposed adhesive layer 30 on the back surface
10b of the body portion of the removed label 10, the label 10 can
then be selectively adhered or otherwise applied to a desired
object 220, e.g., such as a page of a document, a file folder, an
envelope, a storage container or bin, etc. After adhering the label
10 to an object, optionally, the user can then apply slight
pressure to the front surface 10a of the applied label 10 to
further secure the label 10 to the object on which it is adhered.
At this point, the user can optionally remove the tab portion 14
from the body portion 12 by separating the label 10 along the line
of weakness 16 (as shown in FIG. 21). For example, the user can
optionally hold the body portion 12 in place, while grasping the
tab portion 14 and pulling and/or tearing the tab portion 14 away
from the body portion 12 so as to separate the tab portion 14 of
the label 10 from the body portion 12 along the line of weakness
16. Accordingly, only the body portion 12 of the label 10 remains
behind adhered to the object.
[0062] As can be appreciated, insomuch as the adhesive layer 30
covers substantially the entire body portion 12 of the back surface
10b of the label 10, the part of the label 10 remaining on the
object after removal of the tab portion 14 (i.e., the body portion
12 of the label 10) is fully adhered to the object. Moreover,
insomuch as the adhesive layer 30 extends partially past the line
of weakness 16 onto the back surface 10b of the tab portion 14 of
the label 10, it is assured that the adhesive layer 30 comes
completely to the edge of the body portion 12 of the label 10
defined by the line of weakness 16. In this manner, when the label
10 is adhered to an object and the tab portion 14 removed as
described herein, the adhesive layer 30 is assured to extend to the
edge of the body portion 12 of the label 10 defined by the line of
weakness 16, and hence full adhesion of the body portion 12 of the
label 10 to the object can be obtained all the way to the
aforementioned edge. That is to say, after removal of the tab
portion 14, the edge of the body portion 12 of the label 10 defined
by the line of weakness 16 will be protected against unwanted
detachment from the object insomuch as the adhesive layer 30 is
assured to extend all the way to that edge.
[0063] Alternatively, the user can opt to leave the tab portion 14
connected after application of the label 10. In this way, insomuch
as the adhesive layer 30 is a removable and/or repositionable
adhesive, the user can selectively remove the label 10 from an
object to which it was adhered and/or reposition the same by again
grasping the substantially adhesive-free tab portion 14 and
manipulating the label 10 as desired.
[0064] In any event, it is to be appreciated that in connection
with the particular exemplary embodiment(s) presented herein
certain structural and/or functional features are described as
being incorporated in defined elements and/or components. However,
it is contemplated that these features can, to the same or similar
benefit, also likewise be incorporated in other elements and/or
components where appropriate. It is also to be appreciated that
different aspects of the exemplary embodiments can be selectively
employed as appropriate to achieve other alternate embodiments
suited for desired applications, the other alternate embodiments
thereby realizing the respective advantages of the aspects
incorporated therein.
[0065] Additionally, it is to be appreciated that certain elements
described herein as incorporated together can, under suitable
circumstances, be stand-alone elements or otherwise divided.
Similarly, a plurality of particular functions described as being
carried out by one particular element can be carried out by a
plurality of distinct elements acting independently to carry out
individual functions, or certain individual functions can be
split-up and carried out by a plurality of distinct elements acting
in concert. Alternatively, some elements or components otherwise
described and/or shown herein as distinct from one another can be
physically or functionally combined where appropriate.
[0066] In short, the present specification has been set forth with
reference to preferred embodiments. Obviously, modifications and
alterations will occur to others upon reading and understanding the
present specification. It is intended that the invention be
construed as including all such modifications and alterations
insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the
equivalents thereof.
* * * * *