U.S. patent application number 16/226838 was filed with the patent office on 2019-06-20 for sealable container.
The applicant listed for this patent is Sev-Rend Corporation. Invention is credited to Mark Williams, Robert E. Williams.
Application Number | 20190185217 16/226838 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 66815006 |
Filed Date | 2019-06-20 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190185217 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Williams; Robert E. ; et
al. |
June 20, 2019 |
SEALABLE CONTAINER
Abstract
A sealable container includes a first layer and a second layer
coupled to the first layer to define a cavity therebetween. The
second layer is coupled to the first layer at a first side sector,
a lower sector, and a second side sector opposite the first side
sector such that an opening in fluid communication with the cavity
is defined between the first layer and the second layer at an upper
sector opposite the lower sector. The second layer includes a flap
portion at the upper sector extending beyond an upper edge of the
first layer. A first coupling mechanism is coupled to an inner
surface of the second layer generally facing the first layer at the
upper sector, and a second coupling mechanism is coupled to an
outer surface of the second layer generally facing away from the
first layer at the upper sector.
Inventors: |
Williams; Robert E.;
(Richmond Heights, MO) ; Williams; Mark;
(Lexington, KY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Sev-Rend Corporation |
Collinsville |
IL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
66815006 |
Appl. No.: |
16/226838 |
Filed: |
December 20, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62608042 |
Dec 20, 2017 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 33/24 20130101;
B65D 33/2508 20130101; B65D 33/18 20130101; B65D 33/34
20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 33/24 20060101
B65D033/24; B65D 33/18 20060101 B65D033/18 |
Claims
1. A sealable container comprising: a first layer; a second layer
coupled to the first layer to define a cavity therebetween, the
second layer coupled to the first layer at a first side sector, a
lower sector, and a second side sector opposite the first side
sector such that an opening in fluid communication with the cavity
is defined between the first layer and the second layer at an upper
sector opposite the lower sector, the second layer including a flap
portion at the upper sector extending beyond an upper edge of the
first layer; a first coupling mechanism coupled to an inner surface
of the second layer generally facing the first layer at the upper
sector; and a second coupling mechanism coupled to an outer surface
of the second layer generally facing away from the first layer at
the upper sector.
2. The sealable container of claim 1, wherein the upper sector
includes a pair of laterally-extending tabs.
3. The sealable container of claim 1, wherein the upper sector
includes a pair of laterally-extending tabs, the second layer
coupled to the first layer at least partially along a lower edge of
the pair of laterally-extending tabs.
4. The sealable container of claim 1, wherein the first side sector
includes a first cutout portion between the lower sector and the
upper sector, and the second side sector includes a second cutout
portion between the lower sector and the upper sector.
5. The sealable container of claim 1, wherein the lower sector has
a lower width, and the upper sector has an upper width
substantially equal to the lower width.
6. The sealable container of claim 1, wherein the first coupling
mechanism has a coupling mechanism height, and the first layer
includes another flap portion at the upper sector having a flap
height substantially equal to the coupling mechanism height.
7. The sealable container of claim 1, wherein the first coupling
mechanism has a first height, and the second coupling mechanism has
a second height less than the first height.
8. The sealable container of claim 1, wherein the first coupling
mechanism is spaced a first distance from an upper edge of the
second layer, and the second coupling mechanism is spaced a second
distance greater than the first distance from the upper edge of the
second layer.
9. The sealable container of claim 1, wherein the first side sector
includes a first tear notch portion, and the second side sector
includes a second tear notch portion.
10. A sealable container comprising: a first layer; a second layer
coupled to the first layer to define a cavity therebetween, the
second layer coupled to the first layer at a first side sector, a
lower sector, and a second side sector opposite the first side
sector such that an opening in fluid communication with the cavity
is defined between the first layer and the second layer at an upper
sector opposite the lower sector, the second layer including a flap
portion at the upper sector extending beyond an upper edge of the
first layer; and a coupling mechanism coupled to one of an inner
surface of the second layer generally facing the first layer at the
upper sector; and an outer surface of the second layer generally
facing away from the first layer at the upper sector.
11. The sealable container of claim 10, further comprising an
interference fit.
12. The sealable container of claim 10, wherein the upper sector
includes a pair of laterally-extending tabs.
13. The sealable container of claim 10, wherein the upper sector
includes a pair of laterally-extending tabs, the second layer
coupled to the first layer at least partially along a lower edge of
the pair of laterally-extending tabs.
14. The sealable container of claim 10, wherein the first side
sector includes a first cutout portion between the lower sector and
the upper sector, and the second side sector includes a second
cutout portion between the lower sector and the upper sector.
15. The sealable container of claim 10, wherein the lower sector
has a lower width, and the upper sector has an upper width
substantially equal to the lower width.
16. The sealable container of claim 10, wherein the coupling
mechanism has a coupling mechanism height, and the first layer
includes another flap portion at the upper sector having a flap
height substantially equal to the coupling mechanism height.
17. The sealable container of claim 10, wherein the coupling
mechanism is spaced a first distance from an upper edge of the
second layer, and the second coupling mechanism is spaced a second
distance greater than the first distance from the upper edge of the
second layer.
18. The sealable container of claim 10, wherein the first side
sector includes a first tear notch portion, and the second side
sector includes a second tear notch portion.
19. A method of manufacturing a sealable container, the method
comprising: extending a front layer at a first level and a rear
layer at a second level, the rear layer including a flap portion
extending beyond an upper edge of the front layer; coupling the
rear layer to the front layer to define a cavity and an opening in
fluid communication with the cavity between the front layer and the
rear layer, the opening at an upper sector; coupling a first
coupling mechanism to an anterior surface of the rear layer at the
upper sector; and coupling a second coupling mechanism to a
posterior surface of the rear layer at the upper sector.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein extending the front layer and
the rear layer comprises folding a panel such that the front layer
extends at the first level and the rear layer extends at the second
level, the rear layer coupled to the front layer at a lower sector
opposite the upper sector.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 62/608,042, filed on Dec. 20, 2017, the
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Containers, such as sacks, pouches, or bags, are generally
used to hold or store objects. Containers may be used, for example,
to package merchandise for delivery to clients or customers. Some
containers include a closing or sealing mechanism that allows the
container to be sealed or closed. Some known containers are closed,
for example, using twist ties, draw strings, zipper-like
self-closing features, adhesive strips, and/or heat seals. At least
some known containers, however, are prone to leaking. It can be
onerous and/or costly to seal at least some known containers in a
leak-proof manner.
SUMMARY
[0003] Examples of the disclosure enable one or more containers to
be sealed in a leak-proof, tamper-evident, and user-friendly
manner. In one aspect, a sealable container is provided. The
sealable container includes a first layer and a second layer
coupled to the first layer to define a cavity therebetween. The
second layer is coupled to the first layer at a first side sector,
a lower sector, and a second side sector opposite the first side
sector such that an opening in fluid communication with the cavity
is defined between the first layer and the second layer at an upper
sector opposite the lower sector. The second layer includes a flap
portion at the upper sector extending beyond an upper edge of the
first layer. A first coupling mechanism is coupled to an inner
surface of the second layer generally facing the first layer at the
upper sector, and a second coupling mechanism is coupled to an
outer surface of the second layer generally facing away from the
first layer at the upper sector.
[0004] In another aspect, a sealable container is provided. The
sealable container includes a first layer and a second layer
coupled to the first layer to define a cavity therebetween. The
second layer is coupled to the first layer at a first side sector,
a lower sector, and a second side sector opposite the first side
sector such that an opening in fluid communication with the cavity
is defined between the first layer and the second layer at an upper
sector opposite the lower sector. The second layer includes a flap
portion at the upper sector extending beyond an upper edge of the
first layer. In some embodiments, a coupling mechanism is coupled
to an inner surface of the second layer generally facing the first
layer at the upper sector. In some embodiments, a coupling
mechanism is coupled to an outer surface of the second layer
generally facing away from the first layer at the upper sector.
[0005] In another aspect, a method is provided for manufacturing a
sealable container. The method includes extending a front layer at
a first level and a rear layer at a second level. The rear layer
includes a flap portion extending beyond an upper edge of the front
layer. The rear layer is coupled to the front layer to define a
cavity and an opening in fluid communication with the cavity
between the front layer and the rear layer. The opening is at an
upper sector. A first coupling mechanism is coupled to an anterior
surface of the rear layer at the upper sector, and a second
coupling mechanism is coupled to a posterior surface of the rear
layer at the upper sector.
[0006] In another aspect, a method is provided for manufacturing a
sealable container. The method includes extending a front layer at
a first level and a rear layer at a second level. The rear layer
includes a flap portion extending beyond an upper edge of the front
layer. The rear layer is coupled to the front layer to define a
cavity and an opening in fluid communication with the cavity
between the front layer and the rear layer. The opening is at an
upper sector. A coupling mechanism is coupled to one of an anterior
surface of the rear layer at the upper sector or a posterior
surface of the rear layer at the upper sector.
[0007] In yet another aspect, a method is provided for using a
sealable container to contain one or more objects. The method
includes using a first coupling mechanism at an upper sector to
couple an anterior surface of a rear flap to a posterior surface of
a front flap. The front flap and the rear flap include a pair of
lateral portions and a pair of tab portions extending laterally
from the pair of lateral portions. The rear flap includes an
overhang portion extending upwardly beyond an upper edge of the
front flap. The pair of tabs are folded medially to couple the
anterior surface of the rear flap to itself. The overhang portion
is folded downwardly to couple the anterior surface of the rear
flap to an anterior surface of the front flap. A second coupling
mechanism at the upper sector is used to couple the posterior
surface of the rear flap to an anterior surface of the sealable
container below the front flap.
[0008] In yet another aspect, a method is provided for using a
sealable container to contain one or more objects. The method
includes using a coupling mechanism at an upper sector to couple
one of an anterior surface of a rear flap to a posterior surface of
a front flap or an upper sector to couple the posterior surface of
the rear flap to an anterior surface of the sealable container
below the front flap. The front flap and the rear flap include a
pair of lateral portions and a pair of tab portions extending
laterally from the pair of lateral portions. The rear flap includes
an overhang portion extending upwardly beyond an upper edge of the
front flap. The pair of tabs are folded medially to couple the
anterior surface of the rear flap to itself. The overhang portion
is folded downwardly to couple the anterior surface of the rear
flap to an anterior surface of the front flap.
[0009] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of
concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in
the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify
key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter,
nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of
the claimed subject matter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 includes a front view of an example sealable
container.
[0011] FIG. 2 includes a front view of an example layer that may be
used with a container, such as the sealable container shown in FIG.
1.
[0012] FIG. 3 includes a front view of another example layer that
may be used with a container, such as the sealable container shown
in FIG. 1.
[0013] FIG. 4 includes a rear view of the layer shown in FIG.
3.
[0014] FIG. 5 includes a side view of the layers shown in FIGS. 2
and 3.
[0015] FIG. 6 includes a flowchart of an example method of
manufacturing a container, such as the sealable container shown in
FIG. 1.
[0016] FIG. 7 includes a flowchart of an example method of using a
container, such as the sealable container shown in FIG. 1.
[0017] FIGS. 8-11 include detailed schematic views of an example
sealing system that may be used with a container, such as the
sealable container shown in FIG. 1, in various states.
[0018] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding
parts throughout the drawings. Although specific features may be
shown in some of the drawings and not in others, this is for
convenience only. In accordance with the examples described herein,
any feature of a drawing may be referenced and/or claimed in
combination with any feature of any other drawing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] The present disclosure relates to containers and, more
particularly, to a leak-proof sealable container. Examples
described herein include one or more panels arranged in multiple
layers to define a cavity. Exemplary containers include a panel
that includes a flap that has a coupling mechanism on each side of
it such that one of the coupling mechanisms (e.g., the inner
coupling mechanism) is between the layers. Other exemplary
containers include a panel that includes a flap that has a single
coupling mechanism on one side of it. An upper sector includes
laterally-extending tabs that are foldable to facilitate keeping
liquids inside the container. In this manner, the examples
described herein enable a user to effectively and/or efficiently
seal a container in a leak-proof manner.
[0020] In at least some examples, the container includes a first
layer and a second layer coupled to the first layer to define a
cavity between the first layer and the second layer. The second
layer is coupled to the first layer along the side edges and along
the lower edge such that there is an opening at the upper sector
(e.g., proximate the upper edge of the first layer and/or second
layer). The second layer includes a flap portion at the upper
sector that extends beyond an upper edge of the first layer. A
first coupling mechanism is coupled to an inner surface of the
second layer, and a second coupling mechanism is coupled to an
outer surface of the second layer. While the examples described
herein are described using a rectangular-shaped container, one of
ordinary skill in the art would understand and appreciate that the
container may have any shape that enables a user to seal the
container as described herein.
[0021] FIG. 1 shows an example sealable pouch, bag, and/or
container 100. The container 100 includes a first layer 110 and a
second layer 120 coupled to the first layer 110. FIG. 2 shows a
front view of the first layer 110. FIG. 3 shows a front view of the
second layer 120. FIG. 4 shows a rear view of the second layer 120.
FIG. 5 includes a side view of the first layer 110 and the second
layer 120. The first layer 110 and/or second layer 120 may be
fabricated, for example, from one or more liquid-impermeable,
odor-neutralizing, and/or antibacterial materials. For example, the
first layer 110 and/or second layer 120 may include a plastic film
material. In this manner, the first layer 110 and/or second layer
120 may be used to prevent or restrict at least some liquid (e.g.,
water) from passing through the first layer 110 and/or second layer
120. Additionally or alternatively, at least a portion of the first
layer 110 and/or second layer 120 may be fabricated from a
breathable material that allows at least some gas (e.g., air) to
pass through the first layer 110 and/or second layer 120.
[0022] The second layer 120 may be coupled to the first layer 110
to define a cavity between the first layer 110 and the second layer
120. One or more objects may be contained in the cavity between the
first layer 110 and the second layer 120. The second layer 120 may
be coupled to the first layer 110, for example, at a first side
sector 122, a lower sector 124, and a second side sector 126
opposite the first side sector such that an opening in fluid
communication with the cavity is defined between the first layer
110 and the second layer 120 at an upper sector 128 opposite the
lower sector 124. In some examples, the second layer 120 is coupled
to the first layer 110 along a right edge 132 of the first layer
110 and/or second layer 120, along a lower edge 134 of the first
layer 110 and/or second layer 120, and/or along a left edge 136 of
the first layer 110 and/or second layer 120 while an upper edge 138
of the first layer 110 is free from an upper edge 139 of the second
layer 120. The second layer 120 may be coupled to the first layer
110 using one or more side seals 140, for example. Alternatively,
the second layer 120 may be coupled to the first layer 110 using
any closing or sealing mechanism that enables the container 100 to
be sealed as described herein.
[0023] The first layer 110 includes a first flap portion 142 at the
upper sector 128, and the second layer 120 includes a second flap
portion 144 at the upper sector 128. The first flap portion 142 is
free from the second layer 120 and/or the second flap portion 144
is free from the first layer 110 along the right edge 132, left
edge 136, and/or upper edge 138. In some examples, the first flap
portion 142 extends vertically a first height 146 from an upper
edge 147 of the side seal 140, and the second flap portion 144
extends vertically a second height 148 greater than the first
height 146 from the upper edge 147 of the side seal 140. That is,
the second flap portion 144 may extend beyond an upper edge 138 of
the first layer 110 (e.g., first flap portion 142). In some
examples, the second height 148 is approximately twice the first
height 146. For example, the first height 146 may be approximately
0.25-1.25 inches (in.), and the second height 148 may be
approximately 0.50-2.50 in. In one example, the first height 146 is
1.0 in., and second height 148 is 2.0 in. Alternatively, the first
flap portion 142 and/or second flap portion 144 may have any height
that enables the container 100 to be sealed as described
herein.
[0024] A first coupling mechanism 150 is coupled to an anterior or
inner surface of the second layer 120 at the upper sector 128, and
a second coupling mechanism 152 is coupled to a posterior or outer
surface of the second layer 120 at the upper sector 128. The inner
surface of the second layer 120 faces forward, generally toward the
first layer 110, and the outer surface of the second layer 120
faces rearward, generally away from the first layer 110. In some
examples, the first coupling mechanism 150 and/or second coupling
mechanism 152 extend horizontally substantially across a width 154
of the container 100 at the upper sector 128 (an "upper
width").
[0025] In some examples, the first coupling mechanism 150 extends
vertically a first height 156 from the upper edge 147 of the side
seal 140, and the second coupling mechanism 152 extends vertically
a second height 158 less than the first height 156 from the upper
edge 147 of the side seal 140. That is, the second coupling
mechanism 152 may be smaller in area than the first coupling
mechanism 150. In some examples, the first height 156 is
substantially similar or equal to the second height 148 (i.e., the
height of the second flap portion 144), and/or the second height
158 is substantially similar or equal to the first height 146
(i.e., the height of the first flap portion 142). For example, the
first height 156 may be approximately 0.50-2.50 in., and the second
height 158 may be approximately 0.25-1.25 in. In one example, the
first height 156 is 2.0 in., and the second height 158 is 1.0 in.
Alternatively, the first coupling mechanism 150 and/or second
coupling mechanism 152 may have any height that enables the
container 100 to be sealed as described herein. For example, the
first coupling mechanism 150 may be spaced a first distance from
the upper edge 139 of the second layer 120 (e.g., the first height
156 may be less than the second height 148), and/or the second
coupling mechanism 152 may be spaced a second distance greater than
the first distance from the upper edge 139 of the second layer 120
(e.g., the second height 158 may be less than the first height
146).
[0026] As shown in FIG. 5, the first coupling mechanism 150
includes one of more first adhesive strips coupled to an anterior
surface of the second flap portion 144, and the second coupling
mechanism 152 includes one or more second adhesive strips coupled
to a posterior surface of the second flap portion 144. In some
examples, the first coupling mechanism 150 can be an elongated
interference fit (also known as a friction fit or press fit), which
enables to container 100 to be sealed when the interference fit is
pressed together. The first coupling mechanism 150 extends between
the first layer 110 and second layer 120. In this manner, the
container 100 may be at least partially closed or sealed using the
first coupling mechanism 150. In some examples, the first coupling
mechanism 150 and/or second coupling mechanism 152 include one or
more release liners 159 (shown in FIG. 5) extended across the first
adhesive strip and/or second adhesive strip, respectively. The
release liners 159 are detachably coupled to the first adhesive
strip and/or second adhesive strip.
[0027] The container 100 includes one or more tabs 160 at the upper
sector 128. The tabs 160 may extend laterally outward from a core
section 162 between the tabs 160 at the first side sector 122
and/or second side sector 126. The tabs 160 may extend laterally
outward from a respective lateral portion of the core section 162,
for example, a width 164 of approximately 0.50-1.00 in.
Alternatively, one or more tabs 160 may extend laterally outward
from the core section 162 any width that enables the container 100
to be sealed as described herein.
[0028] One or more side seals 140 may extend at least partially
along a lower edge 166 of the tabs 160. That is, the second layer
120 may be coupled to the first layer 110 at least partially along
the lower edge 166. In some examples, the side seals 140 extend
vertically a height 168 of approximately 0.125-0.375 in.
Alternatively, the side seals 140 may have any height at the lower
edge 166 of the tabs 160 that enables the container 100 to be
sealed as described herein.
[0029] The container 100 includes a midsection 170 between the
lower sector 124 and the upper sector 128. The midsection 170
includes a first cutout portion 172 at the first side sector 122
and a second cutout portion 174 at the second side sector 126. The
first cutout portion 172 and/or second cutout portion 174 may
define one or more zones 176 between the tabs 160 at the upper
sector 128 and a "body" of the container 100 at the lower sector
124. One or more portions of the first layer 110 and/or a second
layer 120 may be removed from the zones 176, for example, to form
the first cutout portion 172 and/or second cutout portion 174 at
the midsection 170 and/or one or more tabs 160 at the upper sector
128. In this manner, the container 100 may extend horizontally a
middle width 178 at the midsection 170 that is less than the upper
width 154. The middle width 178 may also be less than a width 180
of the container 100 at the lower sector 124 (a "lower width"). In
some examples, the lower width 180 is substantially similar or
equal to the upper width 154.
[0030] One or more side seals 140 at the first cutout portion 172
and/or second cutout portion 174 may have a J-shaped configuration
including a linear segment and a curved segment. In some examples,
the linear segment extends vertically a height 182 greater than the
second height 148 (i.e., the height of the second flap portion
144). For example, the height 182 may be approximately 0.75-3.00
in. Alternatively, the linear segment of the side seals 140 at the
first cutout portion 172 and/or second cutout portion 174 may have
any height that enables the container 100 to be sealed as described
herein.
[0031] In some examples, the container 100 includes a first tear
notch portion 192 at the first side sector 122 and a second tear
notch portion 194 at the second side sector 126. The first tear
notch portion 192 and/or second tear notch portion 194 may have one
or more lines of weakness or notches 196 defined therein. One or
more portions of the first layer 110 and/or a second layer 120 may
be removed from the notches 196, for example, to form the first
tear notch portion 192 and/or second tear notch portion 194.
[0032] FIG. 6 shows operations of a method 200 of manufacturing the
container 100. At operation 210, a front layer (e.g., first layer
110) is extended at a first level, and a rear layer (e.g., second
layer 120) is extended at a second level. The front layer and/or
rear layer are extended such that a rear flap (e.g., second flap
portion 144) extends beyond an upper edge of the front layer (e.g.,
upper edge 138). In some examples, a single panel is folded such
that one section of the sheet extends at the first level (e.g., the
front layer) and another section of the sheet extends at the second
level (e.g., the rear layer). The single panel may be folded, for
example, so that the rear layer is coupled to the front layer along
a lower edge at a lower sector (e.g., lower sector 124). That is,
the lower edge of the front layer and rear layer may be a fold
edge. Alternatively, one sheet extending at the first level (e.g.,
the front layer) may be coupled to another sheet extending at a
second level (e.g., the rear layer).
[0033] One or more portions (e.g., zones 176) may be removed from
the front layer and/or rear layer to form a first cutout portion
(e.g., first cutout portion 172) at a first side sector (e.g.,
first side sector 122) and a first laterally-extending tab (e.g.,
tab 160) at an upper sector (e.g., upper sector 128), and/or to
form a second cutout portion (e.g., second cutout portion 174) at a
second side sector opposite the first side sector (e.g., second
side sector 126) and a second laterally-extending tab opposite the
first laterally-extending tab (e.g., tab 160) at the upper sector.
The portions may be cut, for example, using a die cutting
press.
[0034] At operation 220, the rear layer is coupled to the front
layer to define a cavity and an opening in fluid communication with
the cavity between the front layer and the rear layer. The rear
layer may be coupled to the front layer, for example, using a heat
seal press. In some examples, the front layer and/or rear layer may
be sealed along one or more side edges (e.g., right edge 132, left
edge 136), including at a midsection (e.g., midsection 170), and/or
along one or more lower edges at the upper sector (e.g., lower edge
166) such that the opening is defined at the upper sector. In some
examples, the rear layer is coupled to the front layer such that
the front layer includes another flap portion (e.g., first flap
portion 142). The flap portion included in the front layer may have
a flap height (e.g., first height 146), for example, that is less
than a flap height of the flap portion included in the rear layer
(e.g., second height 148).
[0035] A first coupling mechanism (e.g., first coupling mechanism
150) is coupled to an anterior surface of the rear layer at the
upper sector at operation 230. The first coupling mechanism may be
coupled to the anterior surface of the rear layer, for example,
such that the first coupling mechanism has a coupling mechanism
height (e.g., first height 156) that is substantially equal to the
flap height of the front layer. In some examples, the first
coupling mechanism is spaced a first distance from an upper edge of
the rear layer (e.g., upper edge 139).
[0036] A second coupling mechanism (e.g., second coupling mechanism
152) to a posterior surface of the rear layer at the upper sector
at operation 240. The second coupling mechanism may be coupled to
the posterior surface of the rear layer, for example, such that the
second coupling mechanism has a coupling mechanism height (e.g.,
second height 158) that is less than that of the first coupling
mechanism. In some examples, the second coupling mechanism is
spaced a second distance from the upper edge of the rear layer that
is greater than the first distance.
[0037] In some examples, the midsection is identified, and one or
more portions of the front layer and/or rear layer (e.g., notches
196) are removed to form one or more tear notch portions (e.g.,
first tear notch portion 192, second tear notch portion 194) below
the midsection. For example, a first portion may be removed to form
a first tear notch portion at the first side sector, and/or a
second portion may be removed to form a second tear notch portion
at the second side sector.
[0038] FIG. 7 shows operations of a method 300 of using the
container 100. FIGS. 8-11 show the container 100 after various
operations of the method 300. At operation 310, a first coupling
mechanism (e.g., first coupling mechanism 150) at an upper sector
(e.g., upper sector 128) is used to couple an anterior surface of a
rear flap (e.g., second flap portion 144) to a posterior surface of
a front flap (e.g., first flap portion 142). In some examples, one
or more release liners (e.g., release liner 159) are detached or
uncoupled from the first coupling mechanism to expose the first
coupling mechanism for coupling the anterior surface of the rear
flap to the posterior surface of the front flap. FIG. 8 shows the
container 100 after operation 310.
[0039] At operation 320, one or more tab portions of the rear flap
and/or the front flap (e.g., tab 160) are folded inwardly (e.g., in
a medial direction) to couple the anterior surface of the rear flap
and/or front flap to itself (i.e., one area of the anterior surface
is coupled to another area of the anterior surface). In some
examples, a right tab portion extending rightward from a right
lateral portion (e.g., at the core section 162) is folded in a
leftward direction so that its anterior surface is re-oriented to
face the anterior surface of the right lateral portion, and/or a
left tab portion extending leftward from a left lateral portion
(e.g., at the core section 162) is folded in a rightward direction
so that its anterior surface is re-oriented to face the anterior
surface of the left lateral portion. The tab portions may be
securely coupled or secured to the lateral portions, for example,
using the first coupling mechanism.
[0040] At operation 330, an overhang portion of the rear flap
(e.g., a portion of the rear flap extending upwardly beyond the
upper edge 138 of the front flap) is folded downwardly over the top
(e.g., upper edge 138) of the front flap to couple the anterior
surface of the rear flap to an anterior surface of the front flap.
In some examples, the overhang portion is folded in a downward
direction so that its anterior surface is re-oriented to face the
anterior surface of the front flap. The overhang portion may be
securely coupled or secured to the front flap, for example, using
the first coupling mechanism. FIG. 9 shows the container 100 after
operation 330.
[0041] At operation 340, a second coupling mechanism (e.g., second
coupling mechanism 152) at the upper sector is used to couple the
posterior surface of the rear flap to an anterior surface of the
container 100 below the front flap. For example, the rear flap may
be coupled to one or more cutout portions (e.g., first cutout
portion 172, second cutout portion 174) at the midsection (e.g.,
midsection 170). In some examples, one or more release liners
(e.g., release liner 159) are detached or uncoupled from the second
coupling mechanism to expose the second coupling mechanism for
coupling the posterior surface of the rear flap to the anterior
surface of the cutout portions. FIG. 11 shows the container 100
after operation 340.
[0042] In some examples, the second coupling mechanism is spaced
from the upper edge of the rear layer (e.g., upper edge 139) such
that the posterior surface of the overhang portion is free from the
second coupling mechanism. That is, the second coupling mechanism
may have a height (e.g., second height 158) that is substantially
similar to, equal to, or less than a height of the front flap
(e.g., first height 146), and/or have an elevation (i.e., a height
from the lower edge of the front layer and/or rear layer) that is
substantially similar to, equal to, or less than an elevation of
the front flap. In this manner, the second coupling mechanism may
be desirably positioned by making successive folds or rolling the
overhang portion in a downward direction. For example, after the
overhang portion is brought over the front flap at operation 330,
the second coupling mechanism may face rearward at an upper
elevation of the container 100. FIG. 9 shows the container 100
after one fold of the overhang portion. On the next (e.g., second)
fold of the overhang portion, the second coupling mechanism may be
brought over the top and re-oriented to face forward at a new upper
elevation of the container 100. FIG. 10 shows the container 100
after two folds of the overhang portion. And, on the next (e.g.,
third) fold of the overhang portion, the second coupling mechanism
may be tucked in under the fold and re-oriented to face the
anterior surface of the cutout portions to couple the rear flap to
the cutout portions. FIG. 11 shows the container 100 after three
folds of the overhang portion.
[0043] In at least some examples, the container includes a first
layer and a second layer coupled to the first layer to define a
cavity between the first layer and the second layer. The second
layer is coupled to the first layer along the side edges and along
the lower edge such that there is an opening at the upper sector
(e.g., proximate the upper edge of the first layer and/or second
layer). The second layer includes a flap portion at the upper
sector that extends beyond an upper edge of the first layer. In
some embodiments, a coupling mechanism is coupled to an inner
surface of the second layer. In other embodiments, a coupling
mechanism is coupled to an outer surface of the second layer. While
the examples described herein are described using a
rectangular-shaped container, one of ordinary skill in the art
would understand and appreciate that the container may have any
shape that enables a user to seal the container as described
herein.
[0044] As described herein, the first layer and/or second layer may
be fabricated, for example, from one or more liquid-impermeable,
odor-neutralizing, and/or antibacterial materials. For example, the
first layer and/or second layer may include a plastic film
material. In this manner, the first layer and/or second layer may
be used to prevent or restrict at least some liquid (e.g., water)
from passing through the first layer and/or second layer.
Additionally or alternatively, at least a portion of the first
layer and/or second layer may be fabricated from a breathable
material that allows at least some gas (e.g., air) to pass through
the first layer and/or second layer.
[0045] As described herein, the second layer may be coupled to the
first layer to define a cavity between the first layer and the
second layer. One or more objects may be contained in the cavity
between the first layer and the second layer. The second layer may
be coupled to the first layer, for example, at a first side sector,
a lower sector, and a second side sector opposite the first side
sector such that an opening in fluid communication with the cavity
is defined between the first layer and the second layer at an upper
sector opposite the lower sector. In some examples, the second
layer is coupled to the first layer along a right edge of the first
layer and/or second layer, along a lower edge of the first layer
and/or second layer, and/or along a left edge of the first layer
and/or second layer while an upper edge of the first layer is free
from an upper edge of the second layer. The second layer may be
coupled to the first layer using one or more side seals, for
example. Alternatively, the second layer may be coupled to the
first layer using any closing or sealing mechanism that enables the
container to be sealed as described herein.
[0046] As described herein, the first layer includes a first flap
portion at the upper sector, and the second layer includes a second
flap portion at the upper sector. The first flap portion is free
from the second layer and/or the second flap portion is free from
the first layer along the right edge, left edge, and/or upper edge.
In some examples, the first flap portion extends vertically a first
height from an upper edge of the side seal, and the second flap
portion extends vertically a second height greater than the first
height from the upper edge of the side seal. That is, the second
flap portion may extend beyond an upper edge of the first layer
(e.g., first flap portion). In some examples, the second height is
approximately twice the first height. For example, the first height
may be approximately 0.25-1.25 inches (in.), and the second height
may be approximately 0.50-2.50 in. In one example, the first height
is 1.0 in., and second height is 2.0 in. Alternatively, the first
flap portion and/or second flap portion may have any height that
enables the container to be sealed as described herein.
[0047] Some example containers include a coupling mechanism 150 is
coupled to an anterior or inner surface of the second layer at the
upper sector. Some example containers include a coupling mechanism
coupled to a posterior or outer surface of the second layer at the
upper sector. The inner surface of the second layer faces forward,
generally toward the first layer, and the outer surface of the
second layer faces rearward, generally away from the first layer.
In some examples, the coupling mechanism extends horizontally
substantially across a width of the container at the upper sector
(an "upper width"). Some example containers include an elongated
interference fit (also known as a friction fit or press fit), which
enables to container 100 to be sealed when the interference fit is
pressed together.
[0048] In some example containers, the coupling mechanism extends
vertically a first height from the upper edge of the side seal. In
some example containers, the coupling mechanism extends vertically
a second height less than the first height from the upper edge of
the side seal. Alternatively, the coupling mechanism may have any
height that enables the container to be sealed as described herein.
For example, the coupling mechanism may be spaced a first distance
from the upper edge of the second layer (e.g., the first height may
be less than the second height), and/or the coupling mechanism may
be spaced a second distance greater than the first distance from
the upper edge of the second layer (e.g., the second height may be
less than the first height). In some example containers, the
coupling mechanism can be combined with an elongated interference
fit (also known as a friction fit or press fit), which enables to
container 100 to be sealed when the interference fit is pressed
together, and further sealed as described herein.
[0049] The coupling mechanism includes one of more adhesive strips
coupled to an anterior surface of the second flap portion.
Alternatively, the coupling mechanism includes one or more adhesive
strips coupled to a posterior surface of the second flap portion.
The coupling mechanism extends between the first layer and second
layer. In this manner, the container may be at least partially
closed or sealed using the coupling mechanism. In some example
containers, the coupling mechanism can be combined with an
elongated interference fit (also known as a friction fit or press
fit), which enables to container 100 to be sealed when the
interference fit is pressed together. In some examples, the
coupling mechanism includes one or more release liners extended
across the adhesive strip. The release liners are detachably
coupled to the adhesive strip.
[0050] As described herein, the container includes one or more tabs
at the upper sector. The tabs may extend laterally outward from a
core section between the tabs at the first side sector and/or
second side sector. The tabs may extend laterally outward from a
respective lateral portion of the core section for any width that
enables the container to be sealed as described herein.
[0051] As described herein, one or more side seals may extend at
least partially along a lower edge of the tabs. That is, the second
layer may be coupled to the first layer at least partially along
the lower edge. The side seals may have any height at the lower
edge of the tabs that enables the container to be sealed as
described herein.
[0052] As described herein, the container includes a midsection
between the lower sector and the upper sector. The midsection
includes a first cutout portion at the first side sector and a
second cutout portion at the second side sector. The first cutout
portion and/or second cutout portion may define one or more zones
between the tabs at the upper sector and a "body" of the container
at the lower sector. One or more portions of the first layer and/or
a second layer may be removed from the zones, for example, to form
the first cutout portion and/or second cutout portion at the
midsection and/or one or more tabs at the upper sector. In this
manner, the container may extend horizontally a middle width at the
midsection that is less than the upper width. The middle width may
also be less than a width of the container at the lower sector (a
"lower width"). In some examples, the lower width is substantially
similar or equal to the upper width.
[0053] As described herein, one or more side seals at the first
cutout portion and/or second cutout portion may have a J-shaped
configuration including a linear segment and a curved segment. In
some examples, the linear segment extends vertically a height
greater than the second height (i.e., the height of the second flap
portion). Alternatively, the linear segment of the side seals at
the first cutout portion and/or second cutout portion may have any
height that enables the container to be sealed as described
herein.
[0054] As described herein, in some examples, the container
includes a first tear notch portion at the first side sector and a
second tear notch portion at the second side sector. The first tear
notch portion and/or second tear notch portion may have one or more
lines of weakness or notches defined therein. One or more portions
of the first layer and/or a second layer may be removed from the
notches, for example, to form the first tear notch portion and/or
second tear notch portion.
[0055] Example containers are described herein and illustrated in
the accompanying drawings. The examples described herein provide a
container that is sealable in a leak-proof, tamper-evident, and
user-friendly manner. The cavity may be accessed, for example, by
tearing the container 100 (e.g., at the notches 196). This written
description uses examples to disclose aspects of the disclosure and
also to enable a person skilled in the art to practice the aspects,
including making or using the above-described systems and executing
or performing the above-described methods. For example, the
examples described herein include a sealable closure including a
panel or flap having an adhesive on both sides of the flap.
Additionally, the examples described herein include a container
with cutouts forming tabs that do not extend wider than the rest of
the container and tear notches below the cutouts.
[0056] Having described aspects of the disclosure in terms of
various examples with their associated operations, it will be
apparent that modifications and variations are possible without
departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined in the
appended claims. That is, aspects of the disclosure are not limited
to the specific examples described herein, and all matter contained
in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings
shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
For example, the examples described herein may be implemented and
utilized in connection with many other applications such as, but
not limited to, sacks, pouches, and/or bags.
[0057] Components of the systems and/or operations of the methods
described herein may be utilized independently and separately from
other components and/or operations described herein. Moreover, the
methods described herein may include additional or fewer operations
than those disclosed, and the order of execution or performance of
the operations described herein is not essential unless otherwise
specified. That is, the operations may be executed or performed in
any order, unless otherwise specified, and it is contemplated that
executing or performing a particular operation before,
contemporaneously with, or after another operation is within the
scope of the disclosure. Although specific features of various
examples of the disclosure may be shown in some drawings and not in
others, this is for convenience only. In accordance with the
principles of the disclosure, any feature of a drawing may be
referenced and/or claimed in combination with any feature of any
other drawing.
[0058] When introducing elements of the disclosure or the examples
thereof, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to
mean that there are one or more of the elements. References to an
"embodiment" or an "example" of the present disclosure are not
intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional
embodiments or examples that also incorporate the recited features.
The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to
be inclusive and mean that there may be elements other than the
listed elements. The phrase "one or more of the following: A, B,
and C" means "at least one of A and/or at least one of B and/or at
least one of C."
[0059] The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the
claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled
in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope
of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ
from the literal language of the claims, or if they include
equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from
the literal language of the claims.
* * * * *