U.S. patent application number 14/973233 was filed with the patent office on 2016-06-23 for easy-open flexible package.
The applicant listed for this patent is Printpack Illinois, Inc., The Quaker Oats Company. Invention is credited to Jeffrey Allen Boekeloo, Jason L. Stufflebeam, Rajesh Suryanarayanan, Katelyn Lauren Vargo.
Application Number | 20160176601 14/973233 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55083529 |
Filed Date | 2016-06-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160176601 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Boekeloo; Jeffrey Allen ; et
al. |
June 23, 2016 |
EASY-OPEN FLEXIBLE PACKAGE
Abstract
An easy open package is provided including a package body formed
from a flexible film having a pair of transverse end seals and a
longitudinal seal generally therebetween. The longitudinal seal
includes a sealed region between a first longitudinal edge portion
of the flexible film sealed to a second longitudinal edge portion
of the flexible film. A tear strip and pull tab formed in the
package body are configured such that initiation of a tear by
pulling the pull tab in one direction causes controlled tearing of
the flexible film along the line of weakness defining the tear
strip. Flexible films and methods for fabrication of the flexible
films and packages also are provided.
Inventors: |
Boekeloo; Jeffrey Allen;
(Acworth, GA) ; Suryanarayanan; Rajesh; (Powder
Springs, GA) ; Stufflebeam; Jason L.; (Marietta,
GA) ; Vargo; Katelyn Lauren; (Chicago, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
The Quaker Oats Company
Printpack Illinois, Inc. |
Chicago
Elgin |
IL
IL |
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
55083529 |
Appl. No.: |
14/973233 |
Filed: |
December 17, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62094727 |
Dec 19, 2014 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/457 ;
383/205; 428/43 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 75/5838 20130101;
B65D 75/12 20130101; B65D 75/5844 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 75/58 20060101
B65D075/58; B65D 75/12 20060101 B65D075/12 |
Claims
1. An easy open package comprising: a package body formed of a
flexible film having a pair of transverse end seals and a
longitudinal seal generally therebetween, the longitudinal seal
comprising a sealed region between a first longitudinal edge
portion of the flexible film sealed to a second longitudinal edge
portion of the flexible film; a tear strip defined by a line of
weakness disposed partially through the flexible film; and a pull
tab positioned in the longitudinal seal and defined by a cut
through both the first longitudinal edge portion and second
longitudinal edge portion of the flexible film in the longitudinal
seal, wherein the cut is positioned within the sealed region and
interior to a terminal edge of the longitudinal seal, wherein the
line of weakness defining the tear strip comprises one or more
lines extending about the package body, the line of weakness
extending from proximate the pull tab and the longitudinal seal and
about at least a portion of the package body, wherein the pull tab
and tear strip are configured such that initiation of a tear by
pulling the pull tab in one direction causes controlled tearing of
the flexible film along the line of weakness defining the tear
strip.
2. The package of claim 1, wherein the line of weakness extends
from an initiating line of weakness and about the at least a
portion of the package body, wherein the pull tab, initiating line
of weakness, and tear strip are configured such that initiation of
the tear by pulling the pull tab in the one direction causes
controlled tearing of the flexible film from the initiating line of
weakness along the line of weakness defining the tear strip.
3. The package of claim 1, wherein one or more of the pair of
transverse end seals and longitudinal seal comprise a heat
seal.
4. The package of claim 1, wherein one or more of the pair of
transverse end seals and longitudinal seal comprise a cold
seal.
5. The package of claim 1, wherein the longitudinal seal lies in a
direction opposite the one direction for pulling the pull tab.
6. The package of claim 1, wherein the flexible film comprises at
least two layers comprising an outer layer and an inner layer.
7. The package of claim 6, wherein the line of weakness extends at
least partially through the outer layer.
8. The package of claim 6, wherein the line of weakness extends at
least partially through the inner layer.
9. The package of claim 6, wherein the line of weakness extends at
least partially and only through the outer layer.
10. The package of claim 1, wherein the line of weakness extends
only partially through the flexible film.
11. The package of claim 1, wherein the tear strip is continuous
with the tab.
12. The package of claim 6, wherein the flexible film further
comprises a print layer and a permanent adhesive disposed between
the outer layer and the inner layer.
13. The package of claim 12, wherein the print layer includes a
graphic providing instructions for opening the package.
14. The package of claim 1, wherein the line of weakness comprises
two substantially parallel lines of weakness.
15. The package of claim 14, wherein the two substantially parallel
lines are spaced apart by a distance of from about 1/8 inch to
about 2 inches.
16. The package of claim 14, wherein the two substantially parallel
lines are spaced apart by a distance of from about 1/4 inch to
about 1 inch.
17. The package of claim 14, wherein the two substantially parallel
lines are spaced apart by a distance of from about 1/4 inch to
about 1/2 inch.
18. The package of claim 14, wherein the cut extends from one of
the two substantially parallel lines of weakness to another of the
two substantially parallel lines of weakness.
19. The package of claim 14, wherein the pull tab is positioned
from about 1/10 inch to about 1/2 inch from the terminal edge of
the longitudinal seal.
20. The package of claim 1, wherein the pull tab is positioned from
about 1/8 inch to about 1/4 inch from the terminal edge of the
longitudinal seal.
21. The package of claim 1, wherein the pull tab comprises a curved
shape.
22. The package of claim 1, wherein the pull tab comprises an
angular shape.
23. The package of claim 22, wherein the angular shape comprises a
trapezoid.
24. The package of claim 1, wherein the line of weakness extends
from proximate one of the first and second longitudinal edge
portions about the at least a portion of the package body without
substantially extending into another of the first and second
longitudinal edge portions.
25. The package of claim 1 wherein the package defines a storage
space and further comprises a seal between the tab and the storage
space.
26. The package of claim 1 wherein the one or more lines of
weakness and the cut are laser scored.
27. The package of claim 1 wherein the longitudinal seal further
comprises an un-adhered exterior margin.
28. The package of claim 1 wherein the tear strip extends about the
package closer to one of the pair of transverse seals than to
another of the transverse seals.
29. A flexible film for forming an easy open package, the flexible
film comprising: a pair of transverse end seal areas; a pair of
longitudinal edge portions generally between the transverse end
seal areas; a storage area extending generally between the
transverse end seal areas and generally between the pair of
longitudinal edge portions; a tear strip defined by a line of
weakness disposed partially through the flexible film, the line of
weakness defining the tear strip comprises one or more lines
extending at least partially along the storage area; and a first
cut through one of the pair of longitudinal edge seal areas and a
second cut through another of the pair of longitudinal edge areas,
wherein the pair of transverse end seal areas, the pair of
longitudinal edge seal areas, the storage area, the tear strip and
the first and second cuts are configured such that the flexible
film can be folded to form a package by adhering the pair of
transverse end seal areas to themselves to form a pair of
transverse end seals, adhering the pair of longitudinal edge
portions to one another to form a longitudinal seal including a
sealed region between the longitudinal edge portions, and aligning
the first and second cuts to define a pull tab positioned in the
longitudinal seal and positioned within the longitudinal seal and
interior to a terminal edge of the longitudinal seal, wherein, when
the package is formed, the line of weakness extends from proximate
the pull tab and the longitudinal seal and about at least a portion
of the package body, and wherein the pull tab and tear strip are
configured such that, when the package is formed, initiation of a
tear by pulling the pull tab in one direction causes controlled
tearing of the flexible film along the line of weakness defining
the tear strip.
30. A roll of the flexible film of claim 1.
31. An easy open package comprising: a package body formed of a
flexible film having a pair of transverse end seals and a
longitudinal seal generally therebetween, the longitudinal seal
comprising a sealed region between a first longitudinal edge
portion of the flexible film sealed to a second longitudinal edge
portion of the flexible film; a tear strip defined by a line of
weakness disposed partially through the flexible film; and a pull
tab positioned in the longitudinal seal and defined by a cut
through the first longitudinal edge portion of the flexible film in
the longitudinal lap seal, wherein the cut is positioned within the
sealed region and interior to a terminal edge of the longitudinal
seal, wherein the line of weakness defining the tear strip
comprises one or more lines extending about the package body, the
line of weakness extending from proximate the pull tab and the
first longitudinal edge portion of the flexible film forming the
longitudinal seal, wherein the pull tab and tear strip are
configured such that initiation of a tear by pulling the pull tab
in one direction causes controlled tearing of the flexible film
along the line of weakness defining the tear strip.
32. The package of claim 31, wherein the line of weakness extends
from an initiating line of weakness and about the at least a
portion of the package body, the initiating line of weakness being
positioned in the second longitudinal edge portion of the flexible
film forming the longitudinal lap seal, wherein the pull tab,
initiating line of weakness, and tear strip are configured such
that initiation of the tear by pulling the pull tab in one
direction causes controlled tearing of the flexible film from the
initiating line of weakness along the line of weakness defining the
tear strip.
33. The package of claim 31, wherein the initiating line of
weakness is positioned in the second longitudinal edge portion of
the flexible film in an area adjacent to the pull tab in the first
longitudinal edge portion.
34. The package of claim 31, wherein one or more of the pair of
transverse end seals and longitudinal lap seal comprise a heat
seal.
35. The package of claim 31, wherein one or more of the pair of
transverse end seals and longitudinal lap seal comprise a cold
seal.
36. The package of claim 31, wherein the flexible film comprises at
least two layers comprising an outer layer and an inner layer.
37. The package of claim 36, wherein the line of weakness extends
at least partially through the outer layer.
38. The package of claim 36, wherein the line of weakness extends
at least partially through the inner layer.
39. The package of claim 36, wherein the line of weakness extends
at least partially and only through the outer layer.
40. The package of claim 31, wherein the line of weakness extends
only partially through the flexible film.
41. The package of claim 31, wherein the tear strip is continuous
with the tab.
42. The package of claim 36, wherein the flexible film further
comprises a print layer and a permanent adhesive disposed between
the outer layer and the inner layer.
43. The package of claim 42, wherein the print layer includes a
graphic providing instructions for opening the package.
44. The package of claim 31, wherein the line of weakness comprises
two substantially parallel lines of weakness.
45. The package of claim 44, wherein the two substantially parallel
lines are spaced apart by a distance of from about 1/8 inch to
about 2 inches.
46. The package of claim 44, wherein the two substantially parallel
lines are spaced apart by a distance of from about 1/4 inch to
about 1 inch.
47. The package of claim 44, wherein the two substantially parallel
lines are spaced apart by a distance of from about 1/4 inch to
about 1/2 inch.
48. The package of claim 44, wherein the cut extends from one of
the two substantially parallel lines of weakness to another of the
two substantially parallel lines of weakness.
49. The package of claim 31, wherein the pull tab is positioned
from about 1/10 inch to about 1/2 inch from the terminal edge of
the first longitudinal edge portion of the longitudinal lap
seal.
50. The package of claim 31, wherein the pull tab is positioned
from about 1/8 inch to about 1/4 inch from the terminal edge of the
first longitudinal edge portion of the longitudinal lap seal.
51. The package of claim 31, wherein the pull tab comprises a
curved shape.
52. The package of claim 31, wherein the pull tab comprises an
angular shape.
53. The package of claim 52, wherein the angular shape comprises a
trapezoid.
54. The package of claim 31, wherein the longitudinal lap seal
surrounding the cut further comprises an area substantially void of
adhesive.
55. The package of claim 31, wherein the line of weakness extends
from proximate the first longitudinal edge portion about the at
least a portion of the package body without substantially extending
into the second longitudinal edge portion.
56. The package of claim 31, wherein the package body, transverse
end seals, and longitudinal lap seal define a storage space and the
longitudinal lap seal further comprises a sealed portion between
the tab and the storage space
57. The package of claim 31 wherein the one or more lines of
weakness and the cut are laser scored.
58. The package of claim 31 wherein the longitudinal seal further
comprises an un-adhered exterior margin.
59. The package of claim 31 wherein the tear strip extends about
the package closer to one of the pair of transverse seals than to
another of the transverse seals.
60. The package of claim 31 wherein the longitudinal seal is a lap
seal.
61. A flexible film for forming an easy open package, the flexible
film comprising: a pair of transverse end seal areas; a pair of
longitudinal edge portions generally between the transverse end
seal areas; a storage area extending generally between the
transverse end seal areas and generally between the pair of
longitudinal edge portions; a tear strip defined by a line of
weakness disposed partially through the flexible film, the line of
weakness defining the tear strip comprises one or more lines
extending at least partially along the storage area; and a cut
through one of the pair of longitudinal edge portions, wherein the
pair of transverse end seal areas, the pair of longitudinal area
portions, the storage area, the tear strip and the first and second
cuts are configured such that the flexible film can be folded to
form a package by adhering the pair of transverse end seal areas to
themselves to form a pair of transverse end seals, adhering the
pair of longitudinal edge portions to one another to form a
longitudinal seal including a sealed region between the
longitudinal edge portions, and aligning the cut to define a pull
tab positioned in the longitudinal seal and positioned within the
one of the longitudinal edge portions and interior to a terminal
edge of the longitudinal seal, wherein, when the package is formed,
the line of weakness extends from proximate the pull tab and the
longitudinal seal and about at least a portion of the package body,
and wherein the pull tab and tear strip are configured such that,
when the package is formed, initiation of a tear by pulling the
pull tab in one direction causes controlled tearing of the flexible
film along the line of weakness defining the tear strip.
62. The flexible film of claim 61 wherein the longitudinal seal is
a lap seal.
63. A roll of the flexible film of claim 61.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application No. 62/094,727, filed on Dec. 19, 2014, the disclosure
of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety as an
example.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present application relates to flexible packaging that
is easily opened. More particularly, the present application is
directed to flexible packaging that can be easily opened using a
controlled tear to provide full access for removal of a product
contained therein.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Flexible packages are widely used for storing items such as
various food products. Various problems associated with opening
such packages are well known, and various attempts have been made
to overcome such problems. For example, in some embodiments,
flexible packages are opened at a profiled end seal, which may
contain serrations to aid in opening the package. The tear that is
generated is generally not guided, meaning that the opening is
unpredictable and doesn't allow for controlled opening of the
package. Another particular problem occurring in opening of
flexible wrap packages in the cross direction from cuts or other
opening initiations is that such mechanisms are terminated by the
longitudinal seal or product, which is generally situated in the
middle of the flexible package. Once the tear reaches this
longitudinal seal, the tear stops or becomes unpredictable.
Furthermore, some easier to open packages are susceptible to
unintentional opening.
[0004] Accordingly, it is desirable to provide new flexible
packages that avoid one or more disadvantages associated with
existing easy open features.
SUMMARY
[0005] Embodiments of the present application address the
above-described needs by providing an easy open package including a
package body formed of a flexible film having a pair of transverse
end seals and a longitudinal seal generally therebetween. The
longitudinal seal includes a sealed region between a first
longitudinal edge portion of the flexible film and a second
longitudinal edge portion of the flexible film. The package body
further includes a tear strip defined by a line of weakness
disposed partially through the flexible film and a pull tab
positioned in the longitudinal seal. The pull tab is defined by a
cut through both the first longitudinal edge portion and second
longitudinal edge portion of the flexible film in the longitudinal
seal, and is positioned within the sealed region and interior to a
terminal edge of the longitudinal seal. The line of weakness
defining the tear strip may include two spaced lines extending
about at least a portion of the package body, the line of weakness
extending from proximate the pull tab and the longitudinal seal
about at least a portion of the package body. The pull tab and tear
strip are configured such that initiation of a tear by pulling the
pull tab in one direction causes controlled tearing of the flexible
film along the line of weakness.
[0006] In another aspect, an easy open package is provided
including a package body formed of a flexible film having a pair of
transverse end seals and a longitudinal seal generally
therebetween, the longitudinal seal having a sealed region between
a first longitudinal edge portion of the flexible film sealed to a
second longitudinal edge portion of the flexible film. A tear strip
is defined by a line of weakness disposed partially through the
flexible film, and a pull tab is positioned in the longitudinal
seal and defined by a cut through the first longitudinal edge
portion of the flexible film in the longitudinal seal, the cut
being positioned within the sealed region and interior to a
terminal edge of the longitudinal seal. The line of weakness
defining the tear strip includes one or more lines extending about
the package body, the line of weakness extending from proximate the
pull tab and the longitudinal seal and about at least a portion of
the package body. The pull tab and tear strip are configured such
that initiation of a tear by pulling the pull tab in one direction
causes controlled tearing of the flexible film along the line of
weakness defining the tear strip.
[0007] In still another aspect, a flexible film for forming an easy
open package is provided. The flexible film comprises a pair of
transverse end seal areas, a pair of longitudinal edge portions
generally between the transverse end seal areas, a storage area
extending generally between the transverse end seal areas and
generally between the pair of longitudinal edge portions, a tear
strip defined by a line of weakness disposed partially through the
flexible film, the line of weakness defining the tear strip
comprises one or more lines extending at least partially along the
storage area, and a first cut through one of the pair of
longitudinal edge portions and a second cut through another of the
pair of longitudinal edge portions. The pair of transverse end seal
areas, the pair of longitudinal edge portions, the storage area,
the tear strip and the first and second cuts are configured such
that the flexible film can be folded to form a package by adhering
the pair of transverse end seal areas to themselves to form a pair
of transverse end seals, adhering the pair of longitudinal edge
portions to one another to form a longitudinal seal including a
sealed region between the longitudinal edge portions, and aligning
the first and second cuts to define a pull tab positioned in the
longitudinal seal and positioned within the longitudinal seal and
interior to a terminal edge of the longitudinal seal. When the
package is formed, the line of weakness extends from proximate the
pull tab and the longitudinal seal and about at least a portion of
the package body. In addition, the pull tab and tear strip are
configured such that, when the package is formed, initiation of a
tear by pulling the pull tab in one direction causes controlled
tearing of the flexible film along the line of weakness defining
the tear strip.
[0008] In yet another aspect, another flexible film for forming an
easy open package is provided. The flexible film comprises a pair
of transverse end seal areas, a pair of longitudinal edge portions
generally between the transverse end seal areas, a storage area
extending generally between the transverse end seal areas and
generally between the pair of longitudinal edge portions, a tear
strip defined by a line of weakness disposed partially through the
flexible film, the line of weakness defining the tear strip
comprises one or more lines extending at least partially along the
storage area, and a cut through one of the pair of longitudinal
edge portions. The pair of transverse end seal areas, the pair of
longitudinal edge portions, the storage area, the tear strip and
the first and second cuts are configured such that the flexible
film can be folded to form a package by adhering the pair of
transverse end seal areas to themselves to form a pair of
transverse end seals, adhering the pair of longitudinal edge
portions to one another to form a longitudinal seal including a
sealed region between the longitudinal edge portions, and aligning
the cut to define a pull tab positioned in the longitudinal seal
and positioned within the one of the longitudinal edge portions and
interior to a terminal edge of the longitudinal seal. When the
package is formed, the line of weakness extends from proximate the
pull tab and the longitudinal seal and about at least a portion of
the package body. In addition, the pull tab and tear strip are
configured such that, when the package is formed, initiation of a
tear by pulling the pull tab in one direction causes controlled
tearing of the flexible film along the line of weakness defining
the tear strip.
[0009] Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the
description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the
description, or may be learned by practice of the aspects described
below. The advantages described below will be realized and attained
by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out
in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the
foregoing general description and the following detailed
description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not
restrictive.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an easy
open package.
[0011] FIGS. 2A and 2B are back views of two embodiments of an easy
open package.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of a flexible film
according to an embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of a flexible film
according to an embodiment.
[0014] FIGS. 5A-5C are schematic illustrations of opening an easy
open package according to an embodiment.
[0015] FIG. 6A-6D are schematic illustrations of a flexible film
(6A), a partially formed pouch having a longitudinal lap seal (6B),
an easy open pouch having a longitudinal lap seal being opened
(6C), the easy open pouch of FIG. 6C after being opened (6D)
according to an embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 6E is a partial schematic illustration of an embodiment
depicting a film comprising an arcuate score positioned in an
unsealed area and spaced a distance from a boundary of the unsealed
area with a seal area.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0017] Embodiments of the present application are directed
generally to an easy open package and methods for manufacturing
such packages. Generally described, an easy open package is
provided that is formed from a flexible film comprising a tear
strip defined by a line of weakness disposed partially through the
flexible film and a pull tab positioned in a longitudinal seal. The
pull tab and tear strip are configured such that initiation of a
tear by pulling the pull tab in one direction causes controlled
tearing of the flexible film from an initiating line of weakness
along the tear strip.
[0018] An exemplary embodiment of a flexible wrap package 100 is
illustrated in FIG. 1. The package 100 has a package body 110
formed from a continuous web of flexible film. First 114 and second
116 transverse end seals may be disposed at opposing transverse
ends of the package body 110, with a longitudinal seal 112 securing
opposing longitudinal edge portions of the flexible film in a
longitudinal direction along the package body 110. The longitudinal
seal 112 may be a fin seal, as illustrated in FIG. 1, or a lap
seal, as illustrated in FIGS. 6B and 6C, as described below.
[0019] The longitudinal seal 112 may be positioned along any
portion of the package body 110. For example, the longitudinal seal
112 may be substantially centered on a back side of the package
body 110, off-center on a back side of the package body (not
shown), on a side of the package body (not shown), or on a
corner/edge of the package body (not shown), and generally extends
the length of the package body 110. The longitudinal seal 112 may
fold either to the right or the left (the "folding direction")
using known manufacturing processes; however, it may be
advantageous for the longitudinal seal 112 to fold to the left to
be more easily openable by right-handed consumers (which constitute
a majority of the population).
[0020] A tear strip 118 is defined by one or more lines of weakness
120 formed partially through the flexible film forming the package
body 110. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the
tear strip 118 includes two substantially parallel lines of
weakness 120. In other embodiments, however, the tear strip 118 may
be defined by one or more parallel lines of weakness, or two or
more parallel lines of weakness. The tear strip 118 generally is
positioned in the transverse position (e.g., in the cross direction
of the package body perpendicular to the longitudinal seal 112) and
extends about at least a portion of the package body 110. The
substantially parallel lines of weakness 120 may be spaced apart by
any suitable distance. For example, in embodiments, the
substantially parallel lines of weakness are spaced apart by a
distance of about 1/50 inch to about 2 inches, about 1/25 inch to
about 2 inches, about 1/8 inch to about 2 inches, about 1/4 inch to
about 1 inch, or about 1/4 inch to about 1/2 inch. In embodiments,
the distance between two spaced lines of weakness may be relative
to the width of the longitudinal seal and/or the package body. For
example, the spaced lines of weakness may be spaced apart by a
distance of more than 2 inches for larger-sized packages.
[0021] An initiating line of weakness 419 (illustrated in FIG. 4)
may be positioned substantially perpendicular to the tear strip
118. For example, in embodiments, the initiating line of weakness
419 may be positioned substantially perpendicular to and
longitudinally between the lines of weakness 120 defining the tear
strip 118. The initiating line of weakness preferably is also
positioned proximal to the where the longitudinal seal 112 meets
the body of the package 110 in the folding direction. For example,
in embodiments in which the longitudinal seal 112 folds to the
left, the initiating line of weakness 419 may be positioned
proximally to the left of the longitudinal seal 112 (i.e., proximal
or adjacent to the sealed region forming the longitudinal seal).
Moreover, where the longitudinal seal is a fin seal, the initiating
line of weakness preferably is positioned on the opposite side of
the flexible film from the cut defining the pull tab, such that the
initiating line of weakness is located proximal or adjacent to the
sealed region once the package is formed.
[0022] A pull tab 122 positioned in the longitudinal seal 112 is
defined by a cut 124 through both opposing longitudinal edge
portions of the flexible film in the longitudinal seal 112. The cut
124 is positioned within the sealed region of the longitudinal seal
112 and interior to a terminal edge 125 of the longitudinal seal
112, such that the opposing longitudinal edge portions of the
flexible film in the pull tab 122 remain sealed together to provide
a single pull tab 122. The longitudinal seal 112 may partially or
completely surround the tab 122, and in the embodiment shown in
FIG. 1, the longitudinal seal 112 completely surrounds the tab 122.
An unintentional tear or opening of the package is less likely with
the pull tab 122 positioned within the sealed region of the
longitudinal seal 112 and interior to a terminal edge 125 of the
longitudinal seal 112. The cut defining the pull tab may be any
suitable shape, non-limiting examples of which include a curved
shape (e.g., a semi-circle or semi-ellipse) (FIG. 2B) or an angular
shape (e.g., a trapezoid, square, or rectangle) (FIG. 2A), and may
be any suitable size, provided that it is positioned interior to
the terminal edge 125 of the longitudinal seal 112 a suitable
distance. An unintentional tear or opening of the package is less
likely with the pull tab 122 having a less angular shape, such as a
more curved or rounded shape so that the pull tab 122 does not
unintentionally snag during manufacturing or handling. For example,
the cut defining the pull tab 122 may be positioned from about 1/8
inches to about 1/4 inches interior to the terminal edge 125 of the
longitudinal seal 112, depending in part on the width of the
longitudinal seal. In embodiments, the cut defining the pull tab
may be positioned from about 1/8 inches to about 1/5 inches or from
about 1/8 inches to about 1/6 inches interior to the terminal edge
of the longitudinal seal 112.
[0023] The initiating line of weakness 419 and the line(s) of
weakness defining the tear strip 118 together initiate a controlled
tear in the flexible film, forming the tear strip 118 in the
flexible film. For example, in some embodiments, the initiating
line of weakness 419 and lines of weakness 120 defining the tear
strip 118 may include two substantially parallel scored lines in
the flexible film extending the same distance about the package
body (e.g., a U-shape) or may include two substantially parallel
scored lines in the flexible film extending different distances
about the package body (e.g., a J-shape). In some embodiments, the
tear strip 118 may include more than two substantially parallel
scored lines of weakness 120. Whether the line of weakness 120
extends an amount sufficient to initiate a controlled tear depends
at least in part on the type of flexible film used, the size of the
package body, the film orientation, the adhesive strength, and the
depth of the line of weakness. For example, in embodiments, both of
the lines of weakness 120 defining the tear strip 118 may extend a
length greater than about 5% of the package body 110, greater than
about 25% of the package body 110, greater than about 50% of the
package body 110, greater than about 75% of the package body 110,
or substantially entirely about the package body 110. In other
embodiments, each of the two lines of weakness 120 defining the
tear strip 118 may, independent of one another, extend a length
greater than about 5% of the package body 110, greater than about
25% of the package body 110, greater than about 50% of the package
body 110, or greater than about 75% of the package body 110.
[0024] In some embodiments, the two or more lines of weakness 120
may extend from proximate the pull tab 122 at one side of the
longitudinal seal 112 through and about the package body 110
without extending back into the longitudinal seal 112 from an
opposite side of the longitudinal seal 112. In some such
embodiments, the two or more lines of weakness 120 may extend from
proximate the pull tab 122 at one side of the longitudinal seal 112
through and about the package body 110 and terminate in the package
body 110 and outside of longitudinal seal 112 and may also include
a tear terminating feature such as a J-shaped termination or the
like. The depth, length and shape of the parallel lines of weakness
described herein apply to embodiments that include any number of
parallel lines of weakness.
[0025] The tear strip 118 and pull tab 122 may be located at any
position along the package body 110 between the transverse end
seals 114, 116. Preferably, the tear strip 118 and pull tab 122 are
positioned from about halfway between the transverse end seals 114,
116, or about a third or a quarter of the length of the package
body 110 from a transverse end seal 114. In an embodiment, the tear
strip 118 extends about the package body 110 closer to one of the
pair of transverse end seals 114 and 116 than to another of the
transverse end seals. Preferably, the line(s) of weakness defining
the tear strip and the cut defining the pull tab are substantially
aligned.
[0026] The pull tab 122, tear strip 118, and initiating line of
weakness 419 are configured such that a user pulling the pull tab
122 in a direction D opposite the folding direction of the
longitudinal seal 112 initiates controlled tearing of the flexible
film at the initiating line of weakness 419 and along the one or
more line(s) of weakness 120 defining the tear strip 118 until the
tear strip reaches the longitudinal seal 112. In some embodiments,
the top portion 130 of the package body 110 may be broken apart
from the bottom portion 140 package body 110. Whether the top
portion 130 may be broken apart from the bottom portion 140 depends
in part on the position of the cut 124 relative to the terminal
edge 125 of the longitudinal seal (e.g., how much material remains
connected in the longitudinal seal). Thus, in some embodiments, the
top portion 130 of the package body 110 may remain attached to the
bottom portion 140 (not shown).
[0027] The line(s) of weakness 120 defining the tear strip, the
initiating line of weakness 419, and the cut 124 defining the pull
tab 122, may each, independent of one another, be formed by one or
more of a die cut, score line, perforation line, or other known
techniques for forming such lines of weakness. For example, in
embodiments, the lines of weakness 120 defining the tear strip 118
are two substantially parallel scored lines in the flexible film.
Although the depth of the lines of weakness 120 defining the tear
strip 118 and the terminating line of weakness may vary, they
preferably extend only partially through the flexible film without
penetrating substantially through the flexible film, thereby
retaining the barrier properties of the package body to protect the
product contained therein.
[0028] The plurality of scored lines of weakness 120 have a depth
in the flexible film extending only partially through the flexible
film. The depth of the plurality of scored lines of weakness 120
may be substantially constant along their lengths or may vary along
their lengths. In some embodiments, the depth of the plurality of
scored lines of weakness 120 may be deeper in one portion of their
length than in another portion of their length. In some
embodiments, the depth of the plurality of scored lines of weakness
120 may be deeper in a portion of their length extending across a
portion of one of the longitudinal seal areas of the longitudinal
seal 112 than in another portion of their length extending beyond
the longitudinal seal 112 and across the package body 110. This may
allow for less force when pulling the pull tab 122 in initiation of
opening the package 110 along the tear strip 118.
[0029] A cross-section of an embodiment of a flexible film for
forming the package body is illustrated in FIG. 3. The flexible
film may include a monolayer film (not shown) or a multilayer film
including an inner film layer and an outer film layer, either or
both of which may function as a barrier layer. Additional layers,
such as print and adhesive layers, also may be included in the
flexible film. For example, the flexible film 310 illustrated in
FIG. 3 includes an inner film layer 312, an outer film layer 314,
an adhesive layer 316 disposed between at least a portion of the
inner film layer 312 and outer film layer 314, a print layer 318
disposed between the outer film layer 314 and the adhesive 316, and
a patterned cold seal adhesive layer 320 on the inner surface of
the inner film layer 312. In embodiments, the tear strip and pull
tab may be positioned relative to the graphic, which optionally may
provide instructions for opening the package (i.e., to "open here",
"pull to open", directional arrows, and the like). It should be
appreciated, however, that the flexible film for forming the
package body may include any combination of these layers and/or
additional layers, depending on the desired aesthetics and
functionality of the flexible film and package body. Thus, in some
embodiments, two or more film layers may be coextruded to form an
extrusion lamination rather than laminated together with an
adhesive.
[0030] The one or more layers 312 and 314 of the flexible film may
be formed using the same or different materials. Non-limiting
examples of materials that may be used to form the one or more
layers include polymeric materials, metallized polymeric materials,
metallic foils, paper-based materials, and combinations thereof.
Suitable polymeric materials and metallized-polymeric materials
frequently used in packaging applications may include polyolefins
(e.g., polyethylenes and polypropylenes), polyamides, and other
thermoplastic polymers. These materials may be produced as a cast
or blown film and may be subsequently bi-axially or mono-axially
oriented. For example, in an embodiment the inner layer 312 may be
a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and the outer layer 314 may be
an oriented PET or biaxially-oriented polypropylene. Further
functionality may be added by coating the materials by a vacuum
deposition, aqueous deposition, spray process, or other means.
[0031] Although not shown in FIG. 3, the parallel lines of weakness
in the flexible film 310 may be formed at least partially through
the inner layer 312 or outer layer 314.
[0032] An exemplary embodiment of an easy open package in the form
of a flexible pouch 600 is illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6D. The pouch
600 has a package body 610 formed from a continuous web of flexible
film 605 having an inner film layer, and an outer film layer. First
614 and second 616 transverse end seals may be disposed at opposing
transverse ends of the package body 610, with a longitudinal lap
seal 612 securing opposing longitudinal edge portions of the
flexible film in a longitudinal direction along the package body
610. The longitudinal lap seal 612 comprises a first longitudinal
edge portion 613 and a second longitudinal edge portion 615 adhered
together and a storage area 606 of the film 605 between the first
614 and second 616 transverse end seals and the longitudinal lap
seal 612. The first longitudinal edge portion 613 may comprise a
first longitudinal seal area 613a and the second longitudinal edge
portion 615 may comprise a second longitudinal seal area 615a and
the first and second longitudinal seal areas 613a and 615a may be
adhered to one another as explained in more detail below. The
package body 610, transverse end seals 614 and 616, and
longitudinal lap seal 612 define a storage space 608. A tear strip
618 is defined by one or more lines of weakness 620a and 620b
formed partially through the flexible film forming the package body
610. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the tear strip 618
includes two substantially parallel lines of weakness 620. In some
embodiments, the tear strip 618 may include more than two
substantially parallel scored lines of weakness 120. Although the
longitudinal seal 612 is a lap seal in FIG. 6A, the longitudinal
seal 612 may also be a fin seal and any aspect of this embodiment
is applicable to embodiments with a fin seal as well as a lap
seal.
[0033] A pull tab 622 positioned in the longitudinal lap seal 612
is defined by a cut 624 through the first longitudinal edge portion
613 of the flexible film forming the longitudinal seal 612. The cut
624 is positioned within an un-sealed area 617 of the longitudinal
lap seal 612 and interior to a terminal edge 625 of the
longitudinal seal 612, such that the first longitudinal edge seal
area 613a remains sealed to the second longitudinal edge seal area
615a except for the un-sealed area 617 proximate the cut 624. An
initiating line of weakness 619 may be positioned substantially
perpendicular to the tear strip 618 in the second longitudinal edge
seal area 615. The initiating line of weakness 619 preferably is
positioned in the second longitudinal edge portion 615 such that it
is positioned within the un-sealed area 617 of the second
longitudinal edge seal area 615a over which the die cut 624
defining the pull tab 622 is disposed nearer the proximal side 621
of the longitudinal lap seal 612. The pull tab 622, initiating line
of weakness 619, and tear strip 618 are configured such that
initiation of a tear by pulling the pull tab 622 in one direction
causes controlled tearing of the flexible film from the initiating
line of weakness 619 along the line of weakness defining the tear
strip 618.
[0034] A patterned cold seal adhesive may be applied on the inner
film layer of the first opposing longitudinal edge portion 613 and
transverse end seals 614, 616 and outer film layer of the second
opposing longitudinal edge portion 615. In some embodiments, the
patterned cold seal adhesive may include a void substantially free
from the cold seal adhesive (or an area having a reduced adhesive
strength relative to the other portions of the longitudinal seal)
substantially surrounding at least a portion of the pull tab 622.
Alternatively, a heat seal or an ultrasonic seal may be used to
form the longitudinal seal 612 and transverse end seals 614,
616.
[0035] In an embodiment, the un-sealed area 617 of the second
longitudinal edge portion 615 and the pull tab 622 may be at least
partially or completely void of any sealing, such as with cold seal
or heat sealing or the like, for easy grasping and opening of the
package by pulling the tab.
[0036] As illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6E, the package 600 comprises the
first and second opposing longitudinal edge portions 613 and 615,
first 614 and second 616 transverse end seals, the storage area 606
there between, the first and second substantially parallel line of
weakness 620a and 620b, and the tab cut 624, which has endpoints in
close proximity to the first substantially parallel line of
weakness 620a and the second substantially parallel line of
weakness 620b. For example, as shown in FIG. 6A, a first endpoint
of the tab cut 624 is co-located with a first end 642a of the first
substantially parallel line of weakness 620a and a second endpoint
of the tab cut 624 is co-located with the first end 642d of the
second substantially parallel line of weakness 620b.
[0037] As shown in FIGS. 6A-6E, the first and second opposing
longitudinal edge portions 613 and 615 may be adhered to one
another to form the longitudinal lap seal seam 612. In this
embodiment, the first and second opposing longitudinal edge
portions 613 and 615 are adhered to one another using an adhesive,
which can be a cold or hot adhesive. It should be understood,
however, that the adhesive could also be heat activated in a heat
sealing process or by other means known to those skilled in the
art. Also, note that although the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.
6A-6E has a lap seal as the longitudinal seal 612, the longitudinal
seal 612 may also be a fin seal as illustrated with other
embodiments in this disclosure.
[0038] In FIG. 6A, the first opposing longitudinal edge portion 613
is partially coated with an adhesive. For example, as illustrated,
the first opposing longitudinal edge portion 613 is completely
coated except for a first adhesive margin 640a and the tab 622.
Although, in some embodiments, a first adhesive margin 640a is not
used, in which case the first opposing longitudinal edge portion
613 can be completely coated except for the tab 622.
[0039] The second opposing longitudinal edge portion 615 is
positioned opposite (e.g., across the flexible film 605) from the
first opposing longitudinal edge portion 613 and is at least
partially coated with a second adhesive. For example, as
illustrated, the second opposing longitudinal edge portion 615 is
completely coated except for a second adhesive margin 640b.
However, in some embodiments, the second adhesive margin 640b is
not used, and the second opposing longitudinal edge portion 615 can
be completely coated. The first and second adhesive margins 640a
and 640b remain un-adhered even after forming the package 600 and
sealing the longitudinal seal 612. This un-adhered margin
facilitates an alternative way of opening the package by pulling
the longitudinal seal 612 apart at the adhesive margins 640a and
640b. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the first and second
opposing longitudinal edge portions 613 and 615 are adhered across
substantially their entire respective areas (e.g., across at least
90% of, or completely across their entire respective areas).
Additionally, although the second opposing longitudinal edge
portion 615 is referred to as coated with a second adhesive in the
second opposing longitudinal edge portion 615, the second adhesive
is not necessarily a different adhesive than the first adhesive.
For example, in some embodiments the second adhesive can be a
different adhesive than the first adhesive. However, in other
embodiments, the second adhesive is the same as the first adhesive.
As an illustration, when the opposing longitudinal edge portions
613 and 615 form a fin seal, a cold seal process may be used to
form the longitudinal lap seal seam 612 by pressing together the
first and second opposing longitudinal edge portions 613 and 615,
the first adhesive and the second adhesive can be the same
adhesive, and under a specified amount of pressure, the adhesive
can be activated to adhere to itself, but not the uncoated wrapper
(e.g., tab 622). When the opposing longitudinal edge portions 613
and 615 form a lap seal, for example, a patterned seal may be
applied to an inside surface of one of the opposing longitudinal
edge portions 613 and 615 which is then adhered to an outside
surface of another of the opposing longitudinal edge portions 613
and 615.
[0040] Thus, the first longitudinal edge portion 613 may comprise,
for example, the first longitudinal seal area 613a, the unsealed
area 617, the first adhesive margin 640a, the tab cut 624 and/or
any combination thereof, with or without additional elements.
Furthermore, the second longitudinal edge portion 615 may comprise,
for example, the second longitudinal seal area 615a, the unsealed
area 617, the second adhesive margin 640b, and/or any combination
thereof, with or without additional elements.
[0041] As illustrated in FIG. 6A, both the second substantially
parallel line of weakness 620b and the first substantially parallel
line of weakness 620a partially cut through the film 605. However,
the tab cut 624 (e.g., an arcuate score) completely cuts through
the wrapper 65. In some embodiments, the first substantially
parallel line of weakness 620a, the second substantially parallel
line of weakness 620b, and/or the tab cut 624 are laser scores. In
some embodiments the scores or cuts 620a and b and 624 can be
formed using a knife or other mechanical device. As an example of
another mechanical device, the tab cut 624 can be formed using a
mechanical punch (e.g., similar to a hole punch) rather than a
knife or laser.
[0042] As illustrated in FIG. 6A, the first substantially parallel
line of weakness 620a extends from a first end 642a of the first
substantially parallel line of weakness 620a positioned in the
first opposing longitudinal edge seal area 613a, across at least a
portion of the first opposing longitudinal edge seal area 613a
(e.g., tear strip seal area 646), across at least a portion of the
storage area 606 (e.g., entire width 644 between the first and
second opposing longitudinal edge portions 613 and 615), and toward
the second opposing longitudinal edge portion 615 until the first
substantially parallel line of weakness 620a terminates at a second
end 642b of the first substantially parallel line of weakness 620a.
Similarly, the second substantially parallel line of weakness 620b
extends from a first end 642c of the second substantially parallel
line of weakness 620b in the first opposing longitudinal edge seal
area 613a, across at least a portion of the first opposing
longitudinal edge seal area 613a, across at least a portion of the
storage area 606, and toward the second opposing longitudinal edge
portion 615 until the second substantially parallel line of
weakness 620b terminates at a second end 642d of the second
substantially parallel line of weakness 620b.
[0043] In the example of FIG. 6A, the tab cut 624 extends from the
first end 642a of the first substantially parallel line of weakness
620a to the first end 642c of the second substantially parallel
line of weakness 620b to provide the tab 622 in the first opposing
longitudinal edge portion 613. Additionally, the tab 622 is
positioned on an unsealed area 617 (as depicted for example in
FIGS. 6A and 6B) of the first opposing longitudinal edge portion
613. For example, the tab 622 can be partially or completely
surrounded by the first opposing longitudinal edge seal area 613a.
This is shown in FIG. 6A, where the first opposing longitudinal
edge seal area 613a completely surrounds the tab 622.
[0044] In some embodiments, also shown in FIG. 6A, the tab 622 is
partially or completely bounded by the first opposing longitudinal
edge seal area 613a. In other words, a boundary of the first
opposing longitudinal edge seal area 613a forms a part or all of
the boundary of the tab 622. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the
tab 622 is bounded by the tab cut 624 and the first opposing
longitudinal edge seal area 613a. As illustrated in FIGS. 6A and
6E, the tab cut 624 is positioned on a boundary of the first
opposing longitudinal edge seal area 613a. Although, in some
embodiments, it is desirable for the tab cut 624 to be positioned
in an unsealed area 617 of the first opposing longitudinal edge
portion 613 and for at least a continuous portion of the tab cut
624 to be spaced a minimum distance 650 from a boundary of the
unsealed area 617 with the first opposing longitudinal edge seal
area 613a. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the continuous portion
of the tab cut 624 that is spaced the minimum distance 650 from the
boundary is the entire length of the tab cut 624 except for a first
length 652a of the tab cut 624 within the minimum distance 650 from
the first end 642a of the first substantially parallel line of
weakness 620a and except for a second length 652b of the tab cut
624 within the minimum distance 650 from the first end 642c of the
second substantially parallel line of weakness 620b. For example,
the minimum distance 650 can help ensure that no part of the tab
622, which is defined in part by the tab cut 624, is sealed to the
second opposing longitudinal edge portion 615. This in turn makes
it easier for a user to grab the tab 622 to initiate opening the
package 600.
[0045] As shown in the illustration of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the first
opposing longitudinal edge portion 613 comprises the tab 622, and
the tab 622 is provided on an unsealed area 617 that is not coated
with adhesive. However, a first adhesive-covered area (e.g., the
tear strip seal area 646 of the first opposing longitudinal edge
seal area 613a) can be provided between the tab 622 and the storage
area 606. Similarly, a second adhesive-covered area (e.g., a part
of the first opposing longitudinal edge seal area 613a) can be
provided between the tab 622 and an exterior edge 654a of the first
opposing longitudinal edge seal area 613a. In some embodiments,
providing an adhesive-covered area with a minimum length or width
can be useful to avoid unintentional opening or tearing of the
package 600 in the area covered with the adhesive. In some
embodiments, providing an adhesive-covered area with a minimum
length or width can be useful to maintain a barrier between the
storage space 608 and an external environment (e.g., ambient
atmosphere outside the package 600). For example, in some
embodiments, a shortest distance across the first adhesive-coated
area between the tab 622 and the storage area 606 (e.g., shortest
distance from tab 622 to boundary 656 between the storage area 606
and the first opposing longitudinal edge seal area 613a) is second
distance 658 equal to at least about 0.005 inches. As another
example, in some embodiments the second distance 658 is at least
about 0.125 inches. In some embodiments the second distance 658 is
about 0.005 to about 10 inches. In some embodiments, the second
distance 658 is about 0.125 inches. Additionally, in some
embodiments, a shortest distance across the second adhesive-coated
area (e.g., a part of the first opposing longitudinal edge seal
area 613a) between the tab 622 and an exterior edge 654a of the
first opposing longitudinal edge seal area 613a is a third distance
660 equal to at least about 0.005 inches. As another example, in
some embodiments the third distance 660 is at least about 0.125. In
some embodiments, the third distance 660 is about 0.005 to about 10
inches. As another example, in some embodiments the third distance
660 is about 0.125 inches.
[0046] In some embodiments, the package 600 comprises a single tab
622 (e.g., one and only one tab and excluding multiple tabs) for
opening. For example, the single tab 622 is positioned in the first
opposing longitudinal edge portion 613, and the second opposing
longitudinal edge portion 615 does not comprise a tab 622 for
opening. In some embodiments, the second opposing longitudinal edge
portion 615 is substantially solid and continuous (e.g., without
scores or cuts within the second opposing longitudinal edge portion
615), for example, to provide increased structural rigidity for the
seal 612, to avoid unintentional tearing, to avoid unintentional
opening, and/or to maintain a connection between the disposable
portion 662 and the holder portion 664 through the longitudinal
seal 612 after opening the package 600.
[0047] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6A, the tear strip 618
of the film 605 between the first substantially parallel line of
weakness 620a and the second substantially parallel line of
weakness 620b is continuous with the tab 622 so that pulling the
tab 622 can be used to partially or completely disconnect the tab
622 and the tear strip 618 from a remainder of the package 600,
thereby opening the package 300. For example, the remainder of the
package 600 can comprise the holder portion 664 of the wrapper and
the disposable portion 662 of the wrapper. Additionally, the
relative sizes of the holder portion 664 of the wrapper and the
disposable portion 662 of the wrapper can vary in different
embodiments.
[0048] In some embodiments, the tear strip 618 comprises the tear
strip seal area 646 adjacent to the tab 622 and positioned between
the tab 622 and the storage area 606. The tear strip seal area 646
may be coated with an adhesive (e.g., the first adhesive) and, as
illustrated, forms a part of the first opposing longitudinal edge
seal area 613a so that, upon forming the longitudinal seal 612 by
sealing the first opposing longitudinal edge portion 613 to the
second opposing longitudinal edge portion 615, the longitudinal
seal 612 provides a barrier between the storage space 608 (e.g.,
food bar storage space) and an atmosphere outside the storage space
608. After the first opposing longitudinal edge portion 613 and the
second opposing longitudinal edge portion 615 are sealed together
to form the longitudinal seal 612, the storage space 608 is at
least partially bound by the storage area 606 of the film 605 and
the longitudinal seal 612 as shown in FIGS. 6A-6E.
[0049] In some embodiments, in order to help ensure that the
storage space 606 is sealed and in order to prevent unintended
tearing of the film 605 and opening of the storage space 306 of the
package 600, the first substantially parallel line of weakness 620a
does not substantially extend (e.g., does not extend more than 0.05
inches, or does not extend at all) into the second opposing
longitudinal edge seal area 615a, and the second substantially
parallel line of weakness 620b does not substantially extend (e.g.,
does not extend more than 0.05 inches, or does not extend at all)
into the second opposing longitudinal edge seal area 615a. For
example, in some embodiments the second end 642b of the first
substantially parallel line of weakness 620a and the second end
642d of the second substantially parallel line of weakness 620b are
each approximately positioned at a boundary 666 between the storage
area 606 and the second opposing longitudinal edge seal area 615a.
Although, in some embodiments, the first substantially parallel
line of weakness 620a and/or the second substantially parallel line
of weakness 620b extend partially into the second opposing
longitudinal edge seal area 615a to help ensure that the disposable
portion 662, the tab 622, and/or the tear strip 618 are completely
separated from the holder portion 664 when a user opens a package
600 by pulling the tab 622.
[0050] The plurality of scored lines of weakness 620 have a depth
in the flexible film 605 extending only partially through the
flexible film 605. The depth of the plurality of scored lines of
weakness 620 may be substantially constant along their lengths or
may vary along their lengths. In some embodiments, the depth of the
plurality of scored lines of weakness 620 may be deeper in one
portion of their length than in another portion of their length. In
some embodiments, the depth of the plurality of scored lines of
weakness 620 may be deeper in a portion of their length extending
across a portion of the longitudinal edge seal area 613a of the
longitudinal seal 612 than in another portion of their length
extending beyond the longitudinal seal 612 and across the storage
area 606 of the flexible film 605. This may allow for less force
when pulling the pull tab 622 in initiation of opening the package
600 along the tear strip 618.
[0051] FIG. 7 illustrates another flexible film 705 of this
disclosure comprising six score lines of weakness 620a, 620b, 720a,
720b, 720c, and 720d. The flexible film 705 in FIG. 7 is the same
as the flexible film 605 in 6A except for the additional lines of
weakness 720a, 720b, 720c, and 720d and therefore the reference
numerals in FIG. 7 are otherwise the same as in FIG. 6A. Middle
lines of weakness 620a and 620b are flanked on each side by pairs
of guide lines of weakness 720a and 720b and 720c and 720d. The
first pair of guide lines of weakness 720a and 720b are spaced from
and proximate to the first middle line of weakness 620a and guide
the tearing of the tear strip 618 so that the tear strip 618 is
more likely to tear between the first pair of guide lines of
weakness 720a and 720b and along or proximately along the first
middle line of weakness 620a and not propagate outwardly and away
from the first pair of guide lines of weakness 720a and 720b.
Likewise, the second pair of guide lines of weakness 720c and 720c
are spaced from and proximate to the second middle line of weakness
620b and guide the tearing of the tear strip 618 so that the tear
strip 618 is more likely to tear between the second pair of guide
lines of weakness 720c and 720d and along or proximately along the
second middle line of weakness 620b and not propagate outwardly and
away from the second pair of guide lines of weakness 720c and 720d.
In some embodiments, the first middle line of weakness 620a may be
spaced from the first pair of guide lines of weakness 720a and 720b
from about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm, or from about 0.8 mm to about 1.2
mm, or about 1 mm. Likewise, in some embodiments, the first middle
line of weakness 620b may be spaced from the first pair of guide
lines of weakness 720c and 720d from about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm, or
from about 0.8 mm to about 1.2 mm, or about 1 mm. In some
embodiments, the middle lines of weakness 620a and 620b may extend
into the first longitudinal seal area 613 and from the respective
first ends 642a and 642d at respective first and second endpoints
of the tab cut 624 and then across at least a portion of the
storage area 606 of the flexible film 705, while the guide lines of
weakness 720a and 720b and 720c and 720d do not extend from the tab
cut 624, but rather are spaced inwardly from the tab 622 and extend
from about the boundary 656 between the storage area 606 and the
first opposing longitudinal edge seal area 613a and across at least
a portion of the storage area 606. In some embodiments, the guide
lines of weakness 720a and 720b and 720c and 720d are spaced
inwardly from the tab 622 from about 1/16 inch to about 1/4 inch,
or about 1/8 inch.
[0052] According to still another embodiment, not shown, the
package 600 may include one or more gussets and the flexible film
605 from which the package 600 is made includes one or more
portions of film configured to form such gussets. In some such
embodiments, the tear strip may extend at least partially or
completely across at least one of the gussets. In some of such
embodiments, the longitudinal seal and tab therein may be in or
proximate to one or more of the gussets. In still some of those
embodiments, the removal of the tear strip may provide for a pour
spout.
[0053] In another aspect, a method of fabricating an easy open
package is provided. In one embodiment, the method may include
providing a continuous web of a flexible film comprising an inner
film layer and an outer film layer; forming one or more lines of
weakness defining a tear strip in either the inner or outer film
layer; forming an initiating line of weakness in either the inner
or outer film layer; folding the flexible film about a product and
forming a longitudinal seal by joining opposing longitudinal edge
portions of the flexible film; and forming at least one transverse
end seal by sealing the flexible film to form a transverse seal
region extending across a transverse end of the package. A cut
through the flexible film defining the pull tab may be formed in
one or both of the opposing longitudinal edge portions of the
flexible film prior to folding the flexible film about the product
or forming a flexible pouch, or after forming the longitudinal
seal.
[0054] In embodiments, the one or more lines of weakness defining
the tear strip, the initiating line of weakness, and the cut
defining the pull tab may be formed in the flexible film using any
suitable methods known to those skilled in the art, non-limiting
examples of which include using a cutting tool, such as a cutting
die, or a laser. These features may be formed in the flexible film
in off-line or in-line processes with respect to packaging of the
product, and also may be formed in both horizontal and vertical
form fill seal operations, among others. For example, these
features may be formed in the flexible film in-line just before the
flexible film is formed into a package body, filled with product,
and sealed. Alternatively, these features may be formed in the
flexible film and wound on a reel by a packaging converter and then
loaded into the packaging equipment on which it is then unwound and
formed into a package body, filled with product, and sealed.
[0055] The easy open packages provided herein may be used for
containing a variety of products, particularly rigid or semi-rigid
food products or products contained in a tray about which the
flexible film is disposed. For example, the easy open packages may
be used for food products such as chocolate and sugar confectionary
products, nutraceuticals, cookies, crackers, biscuits, and the
like. The easy open packages are particularly suited for use with
products that a consumer desires to access from the transverse end
of the package body.
[0056] A schematic illustration of an exemplary embodiment of use
of an easy open package including a food product, such as a granola
bar or candy bar, is illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5C and FIGS. 6C-6D. A
consumer may take an unopened package (FIG. 5A), grasp the pull tab
and pull in the direction opposite the folding direction of the
longitudinal seal to cause controlled tearing in the flexible film
along the line of weakness defining the tear strip (FIG. 5B or 6C),
and expose contents therein by grasping and pulling back the
transverse end seal of the top portion of the package to form a
full access opening in the transverse end of the package (FIG. 5C
or 6D). The top portion of the package may be entirely separated
from or remain partially attached to the bottom portion of the
package body.
[0057] In addition to be being easy to open or openable with
controlled tearing or both, embodiments described herein also
reduce the likelihood of unintentional tearing or opening of the
package. These features therefore reduce the likelihood that the
contents of the package are unintentionally exposed to the
atmosphere outside the package, and in particular, reduces the
likelihood that contents of the package, such as food, would be
spoiled.
[0058] The packaged products may be manufactured using any suitable
packaging method, particularly form, fill, and seal methods using
rolls of the flexible film having the above-described features. For
example, in certain embodiments the method of packaging the product
includes providing a roll of a flexible film including an inner
film layer, an outer film layer, and an adhesive disposed between
the inner and outer film layers, and one or more lines of weakness
defining the tear strip, the initiating line of weakness, and the
cut defining the pull tab in the flexible film. The flexible film
may then be folded about the product (or tray), a longitudinal seal
may be formed by joining opposing longitudinal edge portions of the
flexible film, and two transverse end seals may be formed at
opposing transverse edges of the flexible film. Alternatively, the
flexible film may be first be formed into a flexible pouch by
forming a longitudinal seal by joining opposing longitudinal edge
portions of the flexible film (FIG. 6B), forming a first transverse
end seal, filling the package with product, and forming the second
transverse end seal (e.g., a vertical form fill seal process).
[0059] In certain embodiments (FIG. 4), a roll of a continuous web
of a flexible film 400 is provided having an inner film layer, an
outer film layer, a tear strip 418 defined by two substantially
parallel lines of weakness 420 in the outer film layer, and a pull
tab 422a, 422b defined by cuts 424a, 424b through opposing
longitudinal edge portions 425a, 425b of the flexible film. The
initiating line of weakness 419 is positioned between the two
substantially parallel lines of weakness 420 defining the tear
strip 418. The roll may be suitable for forming a plurality of
packages. A patterned cold seal adhesive may be applied on the
inner film layer for forming the longitudinal seal 412a, 412b and
transverse end seals 414, 416. In some embodiments, the patterned
cold seal adhesive may include a void 426a, 426b substantially free
from the cold seal adhesive (or an area having a reduced adhesive
strength relative to the other portions of the seal and seams)
substantially surrounding at least a portion of the pull tab 422a,
422b, thereby permitting a user to more readily grasp the pull tab
422a, 422b to open the package. Alternatively, a heat seal or an
ultrasonic seal may be used to form the longitudinal seal 412a,
412b and transverse end seals 414, 416. When using a heat seal, a
release lacquer may be applied on at least a portion of the
periphery of the pull tab and/or a patterned heat seal jaw may be
used in the shape of the periphery of the pull tab. In embodiments,
the roll of flexible film may be fed through a machine which folds
it about each product in turn so that opposing longitudinal edge
portions are brought into contact and bonded together to form a
longitudinal seal. The flexible film may then be crimped or bonded
at opposing ends of the product to form the transverse end seals,
and the flexible film may be cut to separate each packaged product
from the remainder of the roll of flexible film.
[0060] In another embodiment, a roll of a continuous web of a
flexible film 605 (shown in (FIG. 6A) unrolled form) is provided.
The roll may be suitable for forming a plurality of packages.
Comparative Examples
[0061] In some embodiments, the second substantially parallel line
of weakness 620b is spaced at minimum a first distance 668 from the
first substantially parallel line of weakness 620a. For example the
first distance 668 can be about 1/16 to about 2.5 inches or about
1/8 inch to about 1.5 inches. As another example, the first
distance 668 can be about 0.500 inches.
[0062] In some embodiments, a length 670 from a first end 672 of
the film 605 to a second end 674 of the film 605 is at least about
1/2 inch. In some embodiments, the length 670 is about 1/2 inch to
about 16 inches. In some embodiments, the length 670 is about 4
inches to about 7 inches. As another example, the length 670 can be
about 5.750 inches.
[0063] In some embodiments, a width 676 from a first edge 678a of
the film 605 to a second edge 678b of the film 605 is at least
about 1/2 inch. In some embodiments, the width 676 is about 1/2
inch to about 16 inches. In some embodiments, the width 676 is
about 4 inches to about 7 inches. As another example, the width 676
can be about 4.375 inches.
[0064] In some embodiments, the tab cut 624 is a curved score
(e.g., arcuate score, elliptical score, a circular score, such as a
score defined by a curve a fixed distance 680b from a point 680a).
For example, in some embodiments, the tab cut 624 has an axis 680a
of curvature and a radius 680b of curvature (e.g., the distance
from the axis 680a of curvature to the tab cut 624) that is at
least about 1/8 inch. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature
680b is about 1/8 inch to about 3 inches. In some embodiments, the
radius of curvature 680b is about 1/8 inch to about 2.5 inches. As
another example, the radius 680b of curvature can be about 0.250
inches.
[0065] In some embodiments, a fifth distance 682 from the first end
672 of the film 605 to the axis 680a of curvature of the tab cut
624 is or averages at least about 0.65 inches. In some embodiments,
the fifth distance 682 can be or averages about 0.65 inches to
about 5.25 inches. In some embodiments, the fifth distance 682 can
be or average about 2.000 inches.
[0066] In some embodiments, a length 684 of the first transverse
end seal 614 is or averages at least about 1/8 inch. In some
embodiments, the length 684 is or averages about 1/8 inch to about
5 inches. As another example, the length 684 can be or average
about 0.625 inches.
[0067] In some embodiments, a length 686 of the second transverse
end seal 616 is or averages at least about 1/8 inch. In some
embodiments, the length 686 is or averages about 1/8 to about 5
inches. As another example, the length 686 can be or average about
0.625 inches.
[0068] In some embodiments, a length 688 of the storage area 606
between the first transverse end seal 614 and the second transverse
end seal 616 is or averages at least about 1/2 inches. In some
embodiments, the length 688 is at least about 4 inches, or about
4.5 inches. In some embodiments, the length 688 is about 4 to about
5 inches. As another example, the length 688 can be or average
about 4.500 inches.
[0069] In some embodiments, a width 690 of the storage area 606
between the first opposing longitudinal edge seal area 613a and the
second opposing longitudinal edge seal area 615a is or averages at
least about 2 inches. In some embodiment, the width 690 is or
averages about 2 inches to about 4 inches. As another example, the
width 690 can be or average about 3.001 inches.
[0070] In some embodiments, a width 692 of the first adhesive
margin 640a is or averages at least about 0.03 inches. In some
embodiments, the width 692 is or averages about 0.04 to about 0.08
inches. As another example, the width 692 can be or average about
0.062 inches. However, some embodiments do not comprise an adhesive
margin 640a.
[0071] In some embodiments, a width 694 of the second adhesive
margin 640b is or averages at least about 0.03 inches. In some
embodiments, the width 694 is or averages about 0.04 to about 0.08
inches. As another example, the width 694 can be or average about
0.062 inches. However, some embodiments do not comprise an adhesive
margin 640b.
[0072] In some embodiments, a width 696 of the first opposing
longitudinal edge seal area 613a is or averages at least about 1/8
inch. In some embodiments, the width 696 is or averages about 1/8
inch to about 5 inches. In some embodiments, the width 696 is about
0.25 inches to about 0.75 inches. As another example, the width 696
can be or average about 0.500 inches.
[0073] In some embodiments, a width 698 of the second opposing
longitudinal edge seal area 615a is or averages at least about 1/8
inch. In some embodiments, the width 698 is or averages about 1/8
inch to about 5 inches. In some embodiments, the width 698 is about
0.5 inches to about 1.0 inches. As another example, the width 698
can be or average about 0.750 inches.
[0074] In some large format embodiments, a width 690 of the storage
area 606 between the first opposing longitudinal edge seal area
613a and the second opposing longitudinal edge seal area 615a is or
averages from about 6 inches to about 37.5 inches, or from about 20
inches to about 37.5 inches or from about 30 inches to about 37.5
inches, and the height or length 670 is or averages from about 5
inches to about 50 inches, or from about 30 inches to about 50
inches or from about 40 inches to about 50 inches.
Additional Embodiments
[0075] The following clauses are offered as further description of
the disclosed invention:
[0076] Clause 1. An easy open package comprising:
[0077] a package body formed of a flexible film having a pair of
transverse end seals and a longitudinal seal generally
therebetween, the longitudinal seal comprising a sealed region
between a first longitudinal edge portion of the flexible film
sealed to a second longitudinal edge portion of the flexible
film;
[0078] a tear strip defined by a line of weakness disposed
partially through the flexible film; and
[0079] a pull tab positioned in the longitudinal seal and defined
by a cut through both the first longitudinal edge portion and
second longitudinal edge portion of the flexible film in the
longitudinal seal, wherein the cut is positioned within the sealed
region and interior to a terminal edge of the longitudinal
seal,
[0080] wherein the line of weakness defining the tear strip
comprises one or more lines extending about the package body, the
line of weakness extending from proximate the pull tab and the
longitudinal seal and about at least a portion of the package
body,
[0081] wherein the pull tab and tear strip are configured such that
initiation of a tear by pulling the pull tab in one direction
causes controlled tearing of the flexible film along the line of
weakness defining the tear strip.
[0082] Clause 2. The package of clause 1, wherein the line of
weakness extends from an initiating line of weakness and about the
at least a portion of the package body, wherein the pull tab,
initiating line of weakness, and tear strip are configured such
that initiation of the tear by pulling the pull tab in the one
direction causes controlled tearing of the flexible film from the
initiating line of weakness along the line of weakness defining the
tear strip.
[0083] Clause 3. The package of clause 1, wherein one or more of
the pair of transverse end seals and longitudinal seal comprise a
heat seal.
[0084] Clause 4. The package of clause 1, wherein one or more of
the pair of transverse end seals and longitudinal seal comprise a
cold seal.
[0085] Clause 5. The package of clause 1, wherein the longitudinal
seal lies in a direction opposite the one direction for pulling the
pull tab.
[0086] Clause 6. The package of clause 1, wherein the flexible film
comprises at least two layers comprising an outer layer and an
inner layer.
[0087] Clause 7. The package of clause 6, wherein the line of
weakness extends at least partially through the outer layer.
[0088] Clause 8. The package of clause 6, wherein the line of
weakness extends at least partially through the inner layer.
[0089] Clause 9. The package of clause 6, wherein the line of
weakness extends at least partially and only through the outer
layer.
[0090] Clause 10. The package of clause 1, wherein the line of
weakness extends only partially through the flexible film.
[0091] Clause 11. The package of clause 1, wherein the tear strip
is continuous with the tab.
[0092] Clause 12. The package of clause 6, wherein the flexible
film further comprises a print layer and a permanent adhesive
disposed between the outer layer and the inner layer.
[0093] Clause 13. The package of clause 12, wherein the print layer
includes a graphic providing instructions for opening the
package.
[0094] Clause 14. The package of clause 1, wherein the line of
weakness comprises two substantially parallel lines of
weakness.
[0095] Clause 15. The package of clause 14, wherein the two
substantially parallel lines are spaced apart by a distance of from
about 1/8 inch to about 2 inches.
[0096] Clause 16. The package of clause 14, wherein the two
substantially parallel lines are spaced apart by a distance of from
about 1/4 inch to about 1 inch.
[0097] Clause 17. The package of clause 14, wherein the two
substantially parallel lines are spaced apart by a distance of from
about 1/4 inch to about 1/2 inch.
[0098] Clause 18. The package of clause 14, wherein the cut extends
from one of the two substantially parallel lines of weakness to
another of the two substantially parallel lines of weakness.
[0099] Clause 19. The package of clause 14, wherein the pull tab is
positioned from about 1/10 inch to about 1/2 inch from the terminal
edge of the longitudinal seal.
[0100] Clause 20. The package of clause 1, wherein the pull tab is
positioned from about 1/8 inch to about 1/4 inch from the terminal
edge of the longitudinal seal.
[0101] Clause 21. The package of clause 1, wherein the pull tab
comprises a curved shape.
[0102] Clause 22. The package of clause 1, wherein the pull tab
comprises an angular shape.
[0103] Clause 23. The package of clause 22, wherein the angular
shape comprises a trapezoid.
[0104] Clause 24. The package of clause 1, wherein the line of
weakness extends from proximate one of the first and second
longitudinal edge portions about the at least a portion of the
package body without substantially extending into another of the
first and second longitudinal edge portions.
[0105] Clause 25. The package of clause 1 wherein the package
defines a storage space and further comprises a seal between the
tab and the storage space.
[0106] Clause 26. The package of clause 1 wherein the one or more
lines of weakness and the cut are laser scored.
[0107] Clause 27. The package of clause 1 wherein the longitudinal
seal further comprises an un-adhered exterior margin.
[0108] Clause 28. The package of clause 1 wherein the tear strip
extends about the package closer to one of the pair of transverse
seals than to another of the transverse seals.
[0109] Clause 29. A flexible film for forming an easy open package,
the flexible film comprising:
[0110] a pair of transverse end seal areas;
[0111] a pair of longitudinal edge portions generally between the
transverse end seal areas;
[0112] a storage area extending generally between the transverse
end seal areas and generally between the pair of longitudinal edge
portions;
[0113] a tear strip defined by a line of weakness disposed
partially through the flexible film, the line of weakness defining
the tear strip comprises one or more lines extending at least
partially along the storage area; and
[0114] a first cut through one of the pair of longitudinal edge
portions and a second cut through another of the pair of
longitudinal edge areas,
[0115] wherein the pair of transverse end seal areas, the pair of
longitudinal edge portions, the storage area, the tear strip and
the first and second cuts are configured such that the flexible
film can be folded to form a package by adhering the pair of
transverse end seal areas to themselves to form a pair of
transverse end seals, adhering the pair of longitudinal edge
portions to one another to form a longitudinal seal including a
sealed region between the longitudinal edge portions, and aligning
the first and second cuts to define a pull tab positioned in the
longitudinal seal and positioned within the longitudinal seal and
interior to a terminal edge of the longitudinal seal,
[0116] wherein, when the package is formed, the line of weakness
extends from proximate the pull tab and the longitudinal seal and
about at least a portion of the package body, and
[0117] wherein the pull tab and tear strip are configured such
that, when the package is formed, initiation of a tear by pulling
the pull tab in one direction causes controlled tearing of the
flexible film along the line of weakness defining the tear
strip.
[0118] Clause 30. A roll of the flexible film of clause 1.
[0119] Clause 31. An easy open package comprising:
[0120] a package body formed of a flexible film having a pair of
transverse end seals and a longitudinal seal generally
therebetween, the longitudinal seal comprising a sealed region
between a first longitudinal edge portion of the flexible film
sealed to a second longitudinal edge portion of the flexible
film;
[0121] a tear strip defined by a line of weakness disposed
partially through the flexible film; and
[0122] a pull tab positioned in the longitudinal seal and defined
by a cut through the first longitudinal edge portion of the
flexible film in the longitudinal lap seal, wherein the cut is
positioned within the sealed region and interior to a terminal edge
of the longitudinal seal,
[0123] wherein the line of weakness defining the tear strip
comprises one or more lines extending about the package body, the
line of weakness extending from proximate the pull tab and the
first longitudinal edge portion of the flexible film forming the
longitudinal seal,
[0124] wherein the pull tab and tear strip are configured such that
initiation of a tear by pulling the pull tab in one direction
causes controlled tearing of the flexible film along the line of
weakness defining the tear strip.
[0125] Clause 32. The package of clause 31, wherein the line of
weakness extends from an initiating line of weakness and about the
at least a portion of the package body, the initiating line of
weakness being positioned in the second longitudinal edge portion
of the flexible film forming the longitudinal lap seal, wherein the
pull tab, initiating line of weakness, and tear strip are
configured such that initiation of the tear by pulling the pull tab
in one direction causes controlled tearing of the flexible film
from the initiating line of weakness along the line of weakness
defining the tear strip.
[0126] Clause 33. The package of clause 31, wherein the initiating
line of weakness is positioned in the second longitudinal edge
portion of the flexible film in an area adjacent to the pull tab in
the first longitudinal edge portion.
[0127] Clause 34. The package of clause 31, wherein one or more of
the pair of transverse end seals and longitudinal lap seal comprise
a heat seal.
[0128] Clause 35. The package of clause 31, wherein one or more of
the pair of transverse end seals and longitudinal lap seal comprise
a cold seal.
[0129] Clause 36. The package of clause 31, wherein the flexible
film comprises at least two layers comprising an outer layer and an
inner layer.
[0130] Clause 37. The package of clause 36, wherein the line of
weakness extends at least partially through the outer layer.
[0131] Clause 38. The package of clause 36, wherein the line of
weakness extends at least partially through the inner layer.
[0132] Clause 39. The package of clause 36, wherein the line of
weakness extends at least partially and only through the outer
layer.
[0133] Clause 40. The package of clause 31, wherein the line of
weakness extends only partially through the flexible film.
[0134] Clause 41. The package of clause 31, wherein the tear strip
is continuous with the tab.
[0135] Clause 42. The package of clause 36, wherein the flexible
film further comprises a print layer and a permanent adhesive
disposed between the outer layer and the inner layer.
[0136] Clause 43. The package of clause 42, wherein the print layer
includes a graphic providing instructions for opening the
package.
[0137] Clause 44. The package of clause 31, wherein the line of
weakness comprises two substantially parallel lines of
weakness.
[0138] Clause 45. The package of clause 44, wherein the two
substantially parallel lines are spaced apart by a distance of from
about 1/8 inch to about 2 inches.
[0139] Clause 46. The package of clause 44, wherein the two
substantially parallel lines are spaced apart by a distance of from
about 1/4 inch to about 1 inch.
[0140] Clause 47. The package of clause 44, wherein the two
substantially parallel lines are spaced apart by a distance of from
about 1/4 inch to about 1/2 inch.
[0141] Clause 48. The package of clause 44, wherein the cut extends
from one of the two substantially parallel lines of weakness to
another of the two substantially parallel lines of weakness.
[0142] Clause 49. The package of claim 31, wherein the pull tab is
positioned from about 1/10 inch to about 1/2 inch from the terminal
edge of the first longitudinal edge portion of the longitudinal lap
seal.
[0143] Clause 50. The package of clause 31, wherein the pull tab is
positioned from about 1/8 inch to about 1/4 inch from the terminal
edge of the first longitudinal edge portion of the longitudinal lap
seal.
[0144] Clause 51. The package of clause 31, wherein the pull tab
comprises a curved shape.
[0145] Clause 52. The package of clause 31, wherein the pull tab
comprises an angular shape.
[0146] Clause 53. The package of clause 52, wherein the angular
shape comprises a trapezoid.
[0147] Clause 54. The package of clause 31, wherein the
longitudinal lap seal surrounding the cut further comprises an area
substantially void of adhesive.
[0148] Clause 55. The package of clause 31, wherein the line of
weakness extends from proximate the first longitudinal edge portion
about the at least a portion of the package body without
substantially extending into the second longitudinal edge
portion.
[0149] Clause 56. The package of clause 31, wherein the package
body, transverse end seals, and longitudinal lap seal define a
storage space and the longitudinal lap seal further comprises a
sealed portion between the tab and the storage space
[0150] Clause 57. The package of clause 31 wherein the one or more
lines of weakness and the cut are laser scored.
[0151] Clause 58. The package of clause 31 wherein the longitudinal
seal further comprises an un-adhered exterior margin.
[0152] Clause 59. The package of clause 31 wherein the tear strip
extends about the package closer to one of the pair of transverse
seals than to another of the transverse seals.
[0153] Clause 60. The package of clause 31 wherein the longitudinal
seal is a lap seal.
[0154] Clause 61. A flexible film for forming an easy open package,
the flexible film comprising:
[0155] a pair of transverse end seal areas;
[0156] a pair of longitudinal edge portions generally between the
transverse end seal areas;
[0157] a storage area extending generally between the transverse
end seal areas and generally between the pair of longitudinal edge
portions;
[0158] a tear strip defined by a line of weakness disposed
partially through the flexible film, the line of weakness defining
the tear strip comprises one or more lines extending at least
partially along the storage area; and
[0159] a cut through one of the pair of longitudinal edge
portions,
[0160] wherein the pair of transverse end seal areas, the pair of
longitudinal area portions, the storage area, the tear strip and
the first and second cuts are configured such that the flexible
film can be folded to form a package by adhering the pair of
transverse end seal areas to themselves to form a pair of
transverse end seals, adhering the pair of longitudinal edge
portions to one another to form a longitudinal seal including a
sealed region between the longitudinal edge portions, and aligning
the cut to define a pull tab positioned in the longitudinal seal
and positioned within the one of the longitudinal edge portions and
interior to a terminal edge of the longitudinal seal,
[0161] wherein, when the package is formed, the line of weakness
extends from proximate the pull tab and the longitudinal seal and
about at least a portion of the package body, and
[0162] wherein the pull tab and tear strip are configured such
that, when the package is formed, initiation of a tear by pulling
the pull tab in one direction causes controlled tearing of the
flexible film along the line of weakness defining the tear
strip.
[0163] Clause 62. The flexible film of clause 61 wherein the
longitudinal seal is a lap seal.
[0164] Clause 63. A roll of the flexible film of clause 61.
[0165] While the invention has been described in detail with
respect to specific embodiments thereof, it will be appreciated
that those skilled in the art, upon attaining an understanding of
the foregoing, may readily conceive of alterations to, variations
of, and equivalents to these embodiments. Accordingly, the scope of
the present invention should be assessed as that of the appended
claims and any equivalents thereof.
* * * * *