U.S. patent application number 17/437454 was filed with the patent office on 2022-05-26 for child resistant peel pouch.
The applicant listed for this patent is Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc.. Invention is credited to Julie A. CARDIN, Edward Emmett CHAPDELAINE.
Application Number | 20220161983 17/437454 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-05-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220161983 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CARDIN; Julie A. ; et
al. |
May 26, 2022 |
CHILD RESISTANT PEEL POUCH
Abstract
Disclosed are packages for dispensing a product, the package
including: a first layer; a second layer; a tab seal zone in which
the first layer is joined to the second layer by a seal, the tab
seal zone defining a first tab and a second tab; a first
perforation in the first layer and a second perforation in the
second layer, the first perforation defining a tear path in the
first layer and the second perforation defining a tear path in the
second layer, wherein at least one of the first and second
perforations at least partially defines a boundary separating the
first tab and the second tab; and a fold guide located in the tab
seal zone, the fold guide indicating a fold line that intersects
the first perforation and the second perforation across the
boundary separating the first tab and the second tab.
Inventors: |
CARDIN; Julie A.; (West St.
Paul, MN) ; CHAPDELAINE; Edward Emmett; (South St.
Paul, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. |
Marlborough |
MA |
US |
|
|
Appl. No.: |
17/437454 |
Filed: |
March 12, 2020 |
PCT Filed: |
March 12, 2020 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2020/022245 |
371 Date: |
September 9, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62816991 |
Mar 12, 2019 |
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International
Class: |
B65D 75/30 20060101
B65D075/30; B65D 50/06 20060101 B65D050/06; B65D 75/58 20060101
B65D075/58 |
Claims
1. A package for dispensing a product, the package comprising: A
first layer; A second layer; A tab seal zone in which the first
layer is joined to the second layer by a seal, the tab seal zone
defining a first tab and a second tab; A first perforation in the
first layer and a second perforation in the second layer, the first
perforation defining a tear path in the first layer and the second
perforation defining a tear path in the second layer, wherein at
least one of the first and second perforations at least partially
defines a boundary separating the first tab and the second tab; and
A fold guide located in the tab seal zone, the fold guide
indicating a fold line that intersects the first perforation and
the second perforation across the boundary separating the first tab
and the second tab.
2. The package of claim 1, wherein the first perforation overlaps
the second perforation along a line segment.
3. The package of claim 1, wherein the first perforation and the
second perforation overlap entirely.
4. The package of claim 3, further comprising an arc-shaped cut in
at least one of the first layer and the second layer at a base of
the first and second tabs.
5. The package of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the tear
path in the first layer overlaps a portion of the tear path in the
second layer, and wherein at least a portion of the tear path in
the first layer does not overlap a portion of the tear path in the
second layer.
6. The package of claim 1, wherein a perimeter of the package
defines a tab end adjacent to the tab seal zone and a product end
opposite the tab end, wherein the first perforation and the second
perforation do not extend to the perimeter at the tab end.
7. The package of claim 6, wherein the perimeter further defines a
first side edge and a second side edge opposite the first side
edge, wherein the first perforation extends to the first side edge
and does not extend to the second side edge, and wherein the second
perforation extends to the second side edge and does not extend to
the first side edge.
8. The package of claim 1, wherein the first perforation and the
second perforation do not extend to a perimeter of the package.
9. The package of claim 1, wherein the tab seal zone comprises a
non-perforated area between a perimeter of the package and the
first and second perforations.
10. The package of claim 1, wherein the tear path in the first
layer starts at a longitudinal centerline of the package and
extends to a first side edge of the package, and the tear path in
the second layer starts at the longitudinal centerline of the
package and extends to a second side edge of the package.
11. The package of claim 10, wherein the tear path in the first
layer at the centerline of the package overlaps the tear path in
the second layer at the centerline of the package.
12. The package of claim 1, wherein the first tab adjoins the
second tab.
13. The package of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the tear
path in the first layer is non-linear and at least a portion of the
tear path in the second layer is non-linear.
14. The package of claim 13, wherein the non-linear portion of the
tear path in the first layer does not overlap the non-linear
portion of the tear path in the second layer.
15. The package of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first
perforation and the second perforation is a single perforation
segment.
16. The package of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first
perforation and the second perforation comprises two or more
perforation segments.
17. The package of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first
perforation and the second perforation comprises: a first
perforation segment; and a second perforation segment intersecting
the first perforation segment.
18. The package of claim 1, wherein the fold guide is located in a
portion of the tab seal zone adjacent to an overlap of the first
perforation and the second perforation.
19. The package of claim 18, wherein the fold guide indicates a
fold line that is perpendicular to the first perforation and the
second perforation at a point of overlap.
20. The package of claim 1, wherein the fold guide is at least one
of: a cut in at least one of the first and second layers, wherein
the cut does not intersect a perimeter of the package; a crease; a
perforation in at least one of the first layer and the second
layer; a debossed pattern in a surface of at least one of the first
layer and the second layer; an embossed pattern in a surface of at
least one of the first layer and the second layer; printed text;
and a printed graphic on the surface of at least one of the first
layer and the second layer.
21. The package of claim 1, wherein the fold guide defines a flap
portion in the tab seal zone at a tab end of the package, and a
product portion in a product seal zone at a product end of the
package.
22. The package of claim 1, further comprising: a product seal zone
opposite the tab seal zone, and an unsealed portion of the package
situated between the product seal zone and the tab seal zone.
23. A method of opening a child-proof package, the method
comprising: folding a portion of the package along a fold guide to
define a flap portion separated from a product portion of the
package by a fold, the fold intersecting a first perforation in a
first layer of the package and a second perforation in a second
layer of the package at an intersection point, wherein the first
perforation overlaps the second perforation; and tearing the
product portion and the flap portion along a first tear line
defined by the first perforation and a second tear line defined by
the second perforation, the step of tearing including severing the
first layer and the second layer at the intersection point on the
fold, after severing the first layer and the second layer at the
intersection point, tearing the package along a first tear vector
and a second tear vector, the second tear vector oriented in a
direction opposite the first tear vector, severing the first layer
along a first segment of the first perforation that does not
overlap the second perforation, and severing the second layer along
a first segment of the second perforation that does not overlap the
first perforation; whereby the step of severing the first layer and
the second layer causes a product inside of the package to be
exposed.
24. A method of forming a package for containing and dispensing a
product, the method comprising: providing a first layer web and a
second layer web; placing a product on at least one pouch area of
one of the first and second layer webs; forming a combined web by
sealing the first layer web to the second layer web at least at a
product seal zone and a tab seal zone such that the first layer is
joined to the second layer by a seal surrounding the at least one
pouch area and a seal in the tab seal zone; forming a perforation
in the tab seal zone of at least one of the first layer web and the
second layer web, the perforation defining a first tab and a second
tab of the package; forming a fold guide in the tab seal zone of at
least one of the first layer web and the second layer web, the fold
guide being adjacent to the perforation; and cutting at least one
individual package around an outer package perimeter to separate
the individual package from the combined web.
25. The method of claim 24, wherein the step of forming a combined
web further comprises leaving an unsealed zone adjacent to an outer
perimeter of the product seal zone where the first layer web is not
sealed to the second layer web.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/616,666,
filed Jun. 7, 2017 and entitled Easy-Open Peel Pouch, is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Published U.S.
Patent Application 2013-0308882, filed May 17, 2013 and also
entitled Easy-Open Peel Pouch, is incorporated herein by reference
in its entirety.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0002] FIG. 1 is a semi-transparent view of a child resistant pouch
according to some examples.
[0003] FIG. 2 is a top view of the child resistant pouch of FIG.
1.
[0004] FIG. 3 is a semi-transparent view of an alternative example
of a child resistant pouch.
[0005] FIG. 4 is a top view of the child resistant pouch of FIG.
3.
[0006] FIG. 5 is a semi-transparent view of an alternative example
of a fold guide for a child resistant pouch.
[0007] FIG. 6 is a semi-transparent view of an alternative example
of a fold guide for a child resistant pouch.
[0008] FIG. 7 is a semi-transparent view of an alternative example
of a child resistant pouch.
[0009] FIG. 8 is a semi-transparent view of an alternative example
of a child resistant pouch.
[0010] FIG. 9 is a partial side view of a child resistant pouch
according to some examples.
[0011] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a method for opening a
child resistant pouch according to some examples.
[0012] FIG. 11 is a top view of a web of child resistant pouches
during an assembly process, according to some examples.
[0013] While embodiments herein are susceptible to various
modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been
shown by way of example and drawings, and will be described in
detail. It should be understood, however, that the scope herein is
not limited to the particular examples described. On the contrary,
the intention is to cover modifications, equivalents, and
alternatives falling within the spirit and scope herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0014] Disclosed herein are examples of child resistant pouches.
The pouches are configured to be difficult for a child to open.
[0015] FIG. 1 shows a pouch 100 for containing and dispensing a
product 112. In some examples, the pouch 100 includes tactile
features 134. The tactile features 134 may be, for example, an
aperture, one or more slits, grooves, bumps, recesses, embossing,
or debossing on the surface of the pouch 100. The tactile features
134 provide grip for opening the pouch 100. In alternative
examples, the tactile features 134 may be omitted.
[0016] The pouch 100 is constructed from a first layer 102, a
second layer 104 (on the back side of the first layer 102 in FIG.
1). The first layer 102 and the second layer 104 are joined
together in a product seal zone 106 where the first layer 102 is
joined to the second layer 104 by a seal 107. The product seal zone
106 can be configured such that the first layer 102 and the second
layer 104 are joined until one layer is peeled away from the other
layer. The product seal zone 106 can be configured such that when
the first layer 102 is separated from the second layer 104, the
seal 107 is broken but each of the layers 102, 104 remains
relatively intact.
[0017] The product seal zone 106 has an inner perimeter 108 and an
outer perimeter 114 that define the bounds of the product seal zone
106. The inner perimeter 108 of the product seal zone 106 defines
an unsealed pouch area 110 for containing the product 112. The seal
107 shields the product 112 from exposure. The pouch 100 has a tab
end 160 and a product end 165 that define first and second ends of
the pouch 100. The pouch 100 has a first side 115 and a second side
117 that define a first side edge and a second side edge of the
pouch 100.
[0018] In the example of FIG. 1, the first layer 102 and the second
layer 104 are sealed in the product seal zone 106 and in a tab seal
zone 130. In some examples, the first layer 102 and the second
layer 104 are joined by a peelable seal. In some examples, the
first layer 102 and the second layer 104 are not sealed in an
unsealed portion 116 situated between the product seal zone 106 and
the tab seal zone 130. The first layer 102 and the second layer 104
are also not sealed in the unsealed pouch area 110.
[0019] The pouch 100 has an outer perimeter 114 that defines the
edges of the pouch 100. The outer perimeter 114 of the tab seal
zone 130 at least partially defines a first tab 122 and a second
tab 124.
[0020] The pouch 100 also includes at least one fold guide in the
tab seal zone 130. In some examples, the pouch 100 includes a first
fold guide 181 in the first tab 122 and a second fold guide 183 in
the second tab 124. The first and second fold guides 181, 182
indicate a fold line that extends across the pouch 100, which
passes through both the first tab 122 and the second tab 124. As
will be discussed further in relation to FIG. 10, opening the pouch
100 requires folding the pouch 100 at the fold line and severing
the first tab 122 from the second tab 124, for example by tearing
the first layer 102 and the second layer 104. The fold line
intersects a first perforation 132 in the first layer 102 and a
second perforation 133 in the second layer 104 across a boundary
separating the first tab 122 and the second tab 124, which will be
discussed below.
[0021] The fold guides 181, 182 can comprise at least one of a
number of different indicators. For example, the fold guides 181,
182 can comprise at least one of a cut in the first or the second
layer 102, 104 in which the cut does not intersect the perimeter
114 of the pouch 100; a crease; a perforation in at least one of
the first layer 102 and the second layer 104; a debossed or
embossed pattern in a surface of at least one of the first layer
102 and the second layer 104; and a printed graphic or text on the
surface of at least one of the first layer 102 and the second layer
104. It is anticipated that other indicators could alternatively be
used to indicate the fold line, and the examples listed here of
different types of fold guides is not exhaustive.
[0022] In the example of FIG. 1, the fold guides 181, 182 are shown
as microperforations in at least one of the first layer 102 and the
second layer 104. In some examples, both the first layer 102 and
the second layer 104 contain these microperforations. In some
examples, the microperforations of the first fold guide 182 and the
second fold guide 182 in the first layer 102 and the second layer
104 overlap; in alternative examples, a fold guide in the first
layer 102 can be non-overlapping with a fold guide in the second
layer 104.
[0023] A first perforation 132 in the first layer 102 at least
partially defines a boundary separating the first tab 122 and the
second tab 124. The first perforation 132 defines a tear path 136
in the first layer 102. The tear path 136 is the line along which a
user will tear open the first layer 102 of the pouch 100 in order
to break the seal 107 to expose the product 112 inside of the pouch
100. In the example of FIG. 1, the tear path 136 in the first layer
102 is nonlinear. The first perforation 132 is, for example, a
microperforation, which is made using a die cut process by a die
having very fine nicks in the blade that are very close
together.
[0024] The second layer 104 comprises a second perforation 133 that
may be a microperforation similar to the first perforation 132. In
the drawing of FIG. 1, the second perforation 133 in the second
layer 104 is depicted as a dashed line in the area of the unsealed
portion 116. The second perforation 133 also extends into the tab
seal zone 130. The second perforation 133 in the second layer 104
at least partially defines the boundary separating the first tab
122 and the second tab 124. The second perforation 133 defines a
tear path 137 in the second layer 104. The tear path 137 is the
line along which a user will tear open the second layer 104 of the
pouch 100 in order to break the seal 107 to expose the product 112
inside of the pouch 100. In the example of FIG. 1, the second tear
path 137 is nonlinear. In the example of FIG. 1, the nonlinear
portion of the tear path 136 in the first layer 102 does not
overlap the nonlinear portion of the tear path 137 in the second
layer 104.
[0025] In the example of FIG. 1, the first perforation 132 of the
first layer 102 overlaps the second perforation 133 of the second
layer 104 in the tab seal zone 130, such that the first perforation
132 and the second perforation 133 are aligned in the tab seal zone
130. In some examples, the first perforation 132 overlaps the
second perforation 133 along a line segment.
[0026] In some examples, there is a non-perforated portion 121 of
the tab seal zone 130 that separates the first perforation 132 from
the perimeter 114. In other words, the first perforation 132 does
not extend to the perimeter 114 of the pouch 100.
[0027] In some examples, the first perforation 132 extends from the
tab seal zone 130 through the unsealed portion 116 to a first edge
115 of the perimeter 114 of the pouch 100. In some examples, the
second perforation 133 extends from the tab seal zone 130 through
the unsealed portion 116 to a second edge 117 of the perimeter 114.
In some examples, the first perforation 132 and the second
perforation 133 overlap in the tab seal zone 130, and do not
overlap in the unsealed portion 116 of the pouch 100. In some
examples, the first perforation 132 extends from the tab seal zone
130 into the unsealed portion 116 without extending to the outer
perimeter 114 of the pouch 100; in other words, non-perforated
portions of the first layer 102, adjacent to the first edge 115 and
a tab end 160 of the pouch 100, separates the first perforation 132
from the perimeter 114 of the pouch 100 at each end of the first
perforation 132. Similarly for the second perforation 133, in some
examples, non-perforated portions of the second layer 104 separate
the second perforation 133 from the perimeter 114 of the pouch 100
at each end of the second perforation 133. In the example of FIG.
1, the first perforation 132 does not extend to the second edge 117
of the perimeter 114, and the second perforation 133 does not
extend to the first edge 115 of the perimeter 114. In alternative
examples, the first perforation 132 and the second perforation 133
could overlap entirely.
[0028] In some examples, there is a void 120 between the first tab
122 and the second tab 124. The shape of the void 120 is defined by
the perimeter 114. In alternative examples, the void 120 is
omitted, in which case the outer perimeter 114 is a straight line
across a tab end 160 of the tab seal zone 130.
[0029] In one embodiment of the manufacturing process, the first
and second perforations are formed during a single die-cutting
step. In another embodiment of the manufacturing process, separate
steps are used for different portions of the perforations. The
first and second perforations overlap along the straight line
segment that divides the tabs. The first and second perforations
have non-overlapping segments that include the non-linear portions.
In one embodiment, the non-overlapping segments are cut into the
respective layers in one die-cutting step, while the overlapping
segments that divide the tabs are cut into the layers in a
subsequent die-cutting step. In one embodiment, the subsequent
die-cutting step is the same step where the outer perimeter of the
package is cut.
[0030] Turning to FIG. 10, the pouch 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2 is shown
in the process of opening the pouch 100. A user opens the pouch 100
to expose the product 112 by first folding over the pouch 100 at
the fold line 1001 indicated by the fold guides 181, 182. The fold
line 1001 overlaps the first perforation 132 and the second
perforation 133 at an intersection point 190. In the example of
FIG. 10, the fold line 1001 is approximately perpendicular to the
first perforation 132 and the second perforation 133 at the
intersection point 190 where the perforations 132, 133 overlap.
[0031] Folding over the pouch 100 along the fold line 1001 defines
a first flap portion 1022 in the first tab 122 and a second flap
portion 1024 in the second tab 124 at the tab end 160 of the pouch
100. Folding the pouch 100 along the fold line 1001 also defines a
product portion 1050 of the pouch 100 on the opposite side of the
fold line 1001. Initially, before opening the pouch 100, the first
flap portion 1022 and the second flap portion 1024 are joined
together, with the first tab 122 adjoining the second tab 124.
Opening the pouch 100 requires a user to exert force on the first
tab 122 in a first direction, and to exert force in an opposite
direction on the second tab 124. This shear force causes the first
perforation 132 and the second perforation 133 to be severed at the
intersection point 190. (In FIG. 10, the perforation 133 in the
second layer 104 is depicted as a dashed line; if the pouch 100 is
opaque, this would not be visible when viewed from the direction of
the first layer 102.) Then, the opposing forces on the first tab
122 and the second tab 124 cause the perforations 132, 133 to be
severed along the tear path 136 of the first layer 104 and the tear
path 137 of the second layer 104. In some examples, the
perforations 132, 133 tear in two directions: the perforations tear
along a force vector directed from the intersection point 190
toward the tab end 160, and at the same time, the perforations 132,
133 tear along a force vector directed from the intersection point
190 toward the product end 165. As the first tab 122 and the second
tab 124 are pulled farther and farther apart, the first tear path
136 of the first layer 102 veers in the direction of the first edge
115, causing the first layer 102 to be severed along a first
segment 1030 of the first perforation 132 that does not overlap the
second perforation 133. Similarly, the second tear path 137 of the
second layer 104 veers in the direction of the second edge 117,
causing the second layer 104 to be severed along a second segment
1033 of the second perforation 133 that does not overlap the first
perforation 132.
[0032] Pulling the first tab 122 and the second tab 124 apart,
combined with severing the first perforation 132 and the second
perforation 133, allows the seal 107 of the product seal zone 106
to be peeled apart, exposing the products 112 inside of the pouch
100. At first, the seal 107 resists separation. When the user
applies a sufficient force against the resistance of the seal 107,
the force causes the seal 107 to be broken first at an apex 150 of
the product seal zone 106. The first layer 102 then begins peeling
apart from the second layer 104. As the first tab 122 and the
second tab 124 are pulled farther and farther apart, more of the
seal 107 is broken. Eventually, the seal 107 of the product seal
zone 106 will be broken as the first layer 102 and the second layer
104 are peeled apart. This allows the product 112 to be removed
from the pouch 100.
[0033] Returning to FIG. 1, in some examples, the tear path 136 in
the first layer 102 starts at a longitudinal centerline of the
package and extends to a first edge 115 of the pouch 100, and the
tear path 137 in the second layer 104 starts at the longitudinal
centerline of the pouch 100 and extends to the second edge 117 of
the pouch 100. In some examples, the tear path 136 overlaps the
tear path 137 at the centerline in the tab seal zone 130.
[0034] The first layer 102 and the second layer 104 can include a
variety of materials and combinations of materials that are
generally known in the art, such as a polyester film, spunbonded
olefin, DuPont TYVEK.RTM. brand spunbonded olefin, linear low
density polyethylene with polybutylene, biaxially oriented
polyester film, polypropylene film, high density polyethylene film,
acrylonitrile co-polymer film, BAREX.RTM. brand acrylonitrile
co-polymer film available from BP Chemicals, Inc., cast
polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyethylene terephthalate
glycol (PETG) film, metal foil, aluminum foil, poly-vinylidene
dichloride (PVDC) film, co-extruded films containing ethylene vinyl
alcohol polymer (EVOH), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film, polyamide
film, vinyl film, high density polyethylene (HDPE), ACLAR.RTM.
brand film, cold or thermo forming films, multilayer heat sealable
pouch films, or composite laminations or coatings that contain the
same. In a variety of examples, the first layer 102 and the second
layer 104 are heat sealable or sealable using ultrasonic welding,
pressure or vibration. In some examples, only one of the first
layer 102 and second layer 104 is heat sealable, and the other is a
compatible material to create a peelable seal. In one example, each
of the first and second layers 102, 104 includes a polyester layer,
such as a DuPont TYVEK.RTM. brand spunbonded olefin, a tie layer
and a sealant layer. In one example, the polyester film, tie layer
and sealant layer are coextruded or laminated to form a single
film. One example of an appropriate sealant layer is linear low
density polyethylene with polybutylene, which is activated by heat
to bond to the other layer. In some examples, the layers 102, 104
are joined by methods other than heat sealing. For example, the
layers 102, 104 may be joined by ultrasonic welding in some
examples. In some examples, the layers 102, 104 may be joined by
more than one method, such as both heat sealing and ultrasonic
welding.
[0035] In a variety of examples, the first layer 102 and the second
layer 104 are substantially non-permeable. In a variety of
examples, the first layer 102 and the second layer 104 are
substantially permeable. For example, a layer that includes a metal
foil layer will be substantially non-permeable, while a layer that
includes a DuPont TYVEK.RTM. brand spunbonded olefin will be
permeable. In a variety of examples, the first layer 102 and the
second layer 104 are substantially flexible, although in some
examples one of the first layer 102 or the second layer 104 or both
are substantially rigid. In some examples, one or both of the
layers is transparent so that the product 112 is visible through
the transparent layer. Alternative terms that can be used to
describe the first layer 102 and the second layer 104 include film,
sheet, web, and the like.
[0036] The first layer 102 is generally coextensive with the second
layer 104 and, as mentioned above, the first layer 102 and second
layer 104 are at least partially joined with a peelable seal.
Generally, the peelable seal is a hermetic bond between the
contacting surfaces of the first layer 102 and second layer 104.
The peelable seal can be formed by any appropriate method known in
the art. In a variety of examples, peelable seal is a heat seal or
melt bonded relationship caused by the application of heat and
pressure. In an alternative example, peelable seal is formed with a
suitable adhesive applied to at least one of the contacting
surfaces of the first layer 102 and second layer 104. In at least
one example, the peelable seal is re-sealable, thereby allowing a
user to reclose the pouch 100.
[0037] In general the peelable seal is configured to have strength
conducive to allowing a user to peel the first layer 102 and the
second layer 104 apart without the use of tools, to access the
product 112 there between. In one example, the peelable seal
strength is in the range of 1.25 to 2 pounds per linear inch of
seal when pulled apart at 180 degrees at 12 inches per minute
travel rate according to testing procedure TAPPI T-494 as published
by the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry. In
some examples the peelable seal strength is in the range of 1.0 to
2.5 pounds per linear inch of seal. In a variety of examples the
peelable seal has strength in the range of 0.25 to 3.5 pounds per
linear inch of seal.
[0038] FIG. 2 is a top view of the child resistant pouch of FIG. 1.
FIG. 2 shows only the first layer 102 of the pouch 100. The pouch
100 has a longitudinal centerline. The tear path 136 of the first
layer 102 starts along the longitudinal centerline toward the end
160 of the pouch 100. In the example of FIGS. 1 and 2, the tear
path 136 for the first layer 102 would begin at the intersection
point 190 and extend in two directions: first, along the
longitudinal centerline toward the tab end 160, and also in the
opposite direction along the longitudinal centerline toward the
product end 165. A non-linear portion of the tear path 136 then
directs the first layer 102 two sever along a diagonal path
extending from the centerline to the first edge 115 of the pouch
100. FIG. 2 shows an alternative example of a fold guide, in which
the fold guides comprise a continuous cut in at least one of the
first layer 102 and the second layer 104, instead of the
microperforated fold guides of FIG. 1.
[0039] As shown in FIG. 2, the non-linear portion of the
perforation 132 has a radius of curvature. The non-linear portion
of the perforation 133 also have a radius of curvature. This radius
of curvature reduces the likelihood of the layer that defines the
perforation from ripping along a line other than along the tear
path 136. A small radius of curvature is more likely to rip the
layer in an unwanted location than a large radius of curvature.
Although the example of FIG. 2 shows one particular radius of
curvature, it is anticipated that other examples could incorporate
a larger or smaller radius of curvature, depending upon the
particular application of the technology.
[0040] FIG. 3 is a semi-transparent view of an alternative example
of a child resistant pouch. In this example, the pouch has a first
layer and a second layer, where the first layer and the second
layer are joined in at least a product seal zone and a tab seal
zone, as in the example of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 shows fold guides cut in
the first tab and the second tab.
[0041] The alternative example of FIG. 3 has a first perforation
and a second perforation; however, the first perforation in the
first layer 102 comprises a first segment and a second segment. In
the example of FIG. 3, the first segment of the first perforation
intersects the second segment of the first perforation in the first
layer 102, as opposed to the example of FIG. 1, in which the first
perforation 132 comprises a continuous segment. The first and
second segments each have two endpoints, unlike the example of FIG.
1 where the first perforation is a continuous segment. In the
example of FIG. 3, the first segment of the second perforation in
the second layer 104 overlaps the first segment of the first
perforation in the first layer 102.
[0042] In FIG. 3, the second perforation also includes a first
segment and a second segment. The first segment of the second
perforation intersects the second segment of the second perforation
at an intersection point in the second layer 104. The second
segment of the first perforation and the second segment of the
second perforation each have a non-linear end that intersects their
first respective segments. The non-linear portions of these
segments are provided in order to reduce the likelihood that the
layers tear through the centerline of the package. It has been
found that when these non-linear portions are omitted, the
perforations have an increased likelihood of not tearing properly,
if other factors remain the same.
[0043] The second segment of the first perforation A and the second
segment of the second perforation B are not intended to meet the
end of the first segments C of the first and second perforations.
In one manufacturing embodiment, the second segments A and B are
formed during the die cutting process in one step, while the first
segments C are formed during a later. In one embodiment, the first
segments C are cut at the same time as the outer perimeter of the
pouch. Because the second segments A and B are not intended to form
a continuous segment with the first segments C, the manufacturing
process can have more permissive tolerances for a re-registration
process between the die-cutting steps when making the package of
FIGS. 3 and $, compared to the package of FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0044] FIG. 4 is a top view of the child resistant pouch of FIG. 3,
with only the first layer showing. FIG. 4 demonstrates force
vectors V1 and V2 that represent the directions along which the
first layer is torn when the package is opened. In particular, the
first layer is severed beginning at the intersection point, and
then is severed along the direction of V1 and along the direction
of V2. The tear path of the first layer then veers toward the side
edge of the package along the second perforation segment of the
first perforation.
[0045] FIG. 5 is a semi-transparent view of an alternative example
of a fold guide for a child resistant pouch. In this example, the
fold guide is a pattern of dimples that may be created by embossing
or debossing. The dimples may be the same as the tactile features
present in the first tab and the second tab. The pattern of dimples
extends along the fold line, indicating the line along which the
user should fold the first and second tabs. FIG. 5 also shows that
the fold line intersects the perforation, and that the perforation
defines the boundary between the first and second tabs.
Furthermore, in the example of FIG. 5, the perforation extends to
the perimeter of the package.
[0046] Turning to FIG. 6, the example of FIG. 6 shows a fold guide
with a printed graphic and printed text on the surface of the
package. In this alternative example, the first and second
perforations do not extend to the perimeter of the pouch. Instead,
a non-perforated portion of the pouch separates the perforation
from the perimeter of the pouch.
[0047] Turning to FIG. 7, an alternative example of a child
resistant pouch includes both perforations and continuous cuts. A
perforation in the first layer extends along the lateral centerline
of the pouch. The perforation defines a tear path in the first
layer. A full guide, comprising perforations, intersects the
perforation at an intersection point. The fold guide indicates a
fold line along which a user should fold the package. Instead of
micro perforations extending across the width of the pouch, FIG. 7
uses a continuous cut in the first layer and a continuous cut in
the second layer. A radial cut in at least one of the first layer
and the second layer prevents the layer from tearing down the
center of the pouch when the first layer and second layer are being
pulled apart.
[0048] Turning to FIG. 8, an alternative example of a child
resistant pouch includes a perforation and full guide similar to
that of FIG. 7. However, no tactile features are present along the
fold line. A perforation in the first layer and a perforation in
the second layer overlap in the tab seal zone, and do not overlap
in an unsealed portion of the pouch. A radial cut at the base of
the first and the second tabs prevents the first layer from tearing
anywhere other than along the tear path defined by the perforation
in the first layer.
[0049] FIG. 9 is a partial side view of a child resistant pouch
according to some examples such as FIG. 2. FIG. 9 is a schematic
view to aid in explaining some aspects of the various examples; for
example, the two seals defining the product seal zone and the tab
seal zone are depicted as being separate structures. But in
reality, this represents a bond between the first and second layers
that is not a separate structure.
[0050] This side view of FIG. 9 shows the product seal zone, the
tab seal zone, and an unsealed portion of the package disposed
between the product seal zone and the tab seal zone. In this
example, the fold guide is a cut in the first layer and a cut in
the second layer. The package is shown being folded over. The fold
defines a flap portion of the pouch on one side of the fold, and a
product portion on the opposite side of the fold. The perforation
in the first layer ends at the side edge of the pouch at the
unsealed portion of the pouch.
[0051] FIG. 11 shows a combined web which includes a first layer
web and a second layer web. The combined web includes a plurality
of individual pouches, having one example configuration, each
having an unsealed pouch area and a product in the unsealed pouch
area. The individual pouches are separated from each other by a web
matrix.
[0052] The first layer web and the second layer web are sealed to
form a combined web by sealing the first layer web to the second
layer web at least at one of a plurality of product seal zones and
a plurality of tab seal zones, such that the first layer is joined
to the second layer by a peelable seal.
[0053] The webs are generally sized to create multiple pouches; the
webs may be very long, also referred to as continuous, in the
machine direction and have a cross-machine direction of one to five
packages, or more. In the example of FIG. 11, the combined web
holds four pouches in the cross-machine direction, and is very long
in the machine direction. The phrase "very long in the machine
direction" is used to mean a web that is typically substantially
longer than it is wide, such as one-hundred or one-thousand times
longer than its width, and is often processed on rolls.
[0054] In at least one example implementation, sealing the webs is
accomplished along a line in a continuous motion. A seal plate can
be used for joining a first layer web and a second layer web with a
heat seal or other seal at a seal zone to form the combined web. In
such an implementation, the seal plate itself defines a product
seal zone having an inner perimeter and an outer perimeter, as
well. Such a seal plate also defines a tab seal zone within
individual pouches.
[0055] During the manufacturing process, at least one of the first
layer web and the second layer web is provided with a perforation.
The perforation defines first and second tabs of the individual
pouches. The individual pouches are furthermore provided with at
least one fold guide. The fold guides are indicative of a fold line
along which the finished pouch should be folded. A number of
techniques are suitable for the fold guides. For example, the fold
guides can comprise at least one of a cut in the first or the
second layer in which the cut does not intersect the perimeter of
the pouch; a crease; a perforation in at least one of the first
layer and the second layer; a debossed or embossed pattern in a
surface of at least one of the first layer and the second layer;
and a printed graphic or text on the surface of at least one of the
first layer and the second layer.
[0056] The combined web is then cut to produce at least one
individual pouch. The pouch is cut along center machine-direction
cut lines, cross-machine direction cut lines and outer machine
direction cut lines to separate the individual pouch from a matrix.
A web matrix allows for some tolerance in the sealing and cutting
steps.
[0057] In some examples, each individual pouch is cut on two or
more passes. In some examples, perforation lines are made in a
first die cutting process, and in a second die cutting process, the
individual pouches are cut along their perimeter from the web
matrix to form the individual pouches. In some cases, cuts or
perforations created in the first die process must be aligned
precisely with the cuts in the second die process. In these cases,
if the first die cut pass is not aligned with the second die cut
pass, the pouches will not open correctly. A process of
re-registration is used to ensure that the second die cut will
precisely align with the first die cut.
[0058] In a variety of examples, each individual package is die cut
around its respective outer perimeter. In at least one example
implementation, the die cutting is accomplished in a rotary die
cutting station. In such an example, the rotary die can cut against
an anvil roll, for example. In other examples, the packages are
knife cut or guillotine cut at their outer perimeters.
[0059] If the pouch includes embossing or debossing, such as to
form the fold guide or tactile features on the tabs, the embossing
step can happen during the manufacturing process. Embossing is a
technique in which a male die and a female die are used on two
sides of a web to create a raised pattern on the web. The inverse
technique, called debossing, uses a male die and a female die on
two sides of a web to create an indentation on the web. The steps
of embossing or debossing can happen simultaneously with providing
perforations, or separately.
[0060] It should be noted that, as used in this specification and
the appended claims, the singular forms include the plural unless
the context clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted
that the term "or" is generally employed in its sense including
"and/or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.
[0061] All publications and patent applications referenced in this
specification are herein incorporated by reference in their
entirety.
[0062] The invention has been described with reference to various
specific and preferred embodiments and techniques. However, it
should be understood that many variations and modifications may be
made while remaining within the spirit and scope of the
invention.
Definitions
[0063] Perforation: an intentionally damaged portion of the layer
that weakens the layer at a point or along a line segment. Although
this specification uses the word "perforation," it is not intended
to limit the scope of the present technology. Perforations can
include microperforations, holes, a series of cuts or punctures, a
scored area that does not cut entirely through a layer, etc. A
perforation does not sever the layer into two pieces at the
perforation location. In contrast to a perforation, a continuous
cut severs a layer into two distinct pieces.
[0064] Fold guide: a physical or printed mark indicating a location
along which the user should fold the packaging. The fold guide
could use a number of different indicators, e.g., a perforation, a
continuous cut though a portion of the package, debossing,
embossing, or a graphic or text indicating where to fold. Other
types of fold guides are suitable and are within the scope of the
present technology.
[0065] Overlap: refers to spatial relationships between elements on
the first layer and elements on the second layer. For example, a
perforation on the first layer overlaps a perforation on the second
layer when the two perforations are aligned one on top of the
other. Perforations on two different layers can overlap at a single
point or along a line segment. For example, a perforation on a
first layer and a perforation on a second layer can be oriented in
different directions such that they overlap at a single point like
an `X.`
[0066] Intersection: refers to spatial relationships between
elements on a single layer. When a first perforation segment on a
first layer crosses a second perforation segment on the first
layer, the two segments are said to intersect at an intersection
point.
[0067] Sever: to break a connection between a first area and a
second area within a single layer of packaging. Severing can refer
to tearing a layer of the package along a tear path, e.g., along a
perforation. When a first perforation on a first layer overlaps a
second perforation on a second layer, severing the first layer and
the second layer occurs simultaneously.
Other Embodiments
[0068] Various modifications and variations of the described
invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art without
departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Although the
invention has been described in connection with specific
embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed
should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed,
various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the
invention that are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended
to be within the scope of the invention.
[0069] The invention is also described by the following enumerated
items.
[0070] 1. A package for dispensing a product, the package
comprising:
[0071] A first layer;
[0072] A second layer;
[0073] A tab seal zone in which the first layer is joined to the
second layer by a seal, the tab seal zone defining a first tab and
a second tab;
[0074] A first perforation in the first layer and a second
perforation in the second layer, the first and second perforations
at least partially defining a boundary separating the first tab and
the second tab, the first perforation defining a tear path in the
first layer and the second perforation defining a tear path in the
second layer; and
[0075] A fold guide located in the tab seal zone, the fold guide
indicating a fold line that intersects the first perforation and
the second perforation across the boundary separating the first tab
and the second tab.
[0076] 2. The package of any of items 1 and 3-22, wherein the first
perforation overlaps the second perforation along a line
segment.
[0077] 3. The package of any of items 1-2 and 4-22, wherein the
first perforation and the second perforation overlap entirely.
[0078] 4. The package of any of items 1-3 and 5-22, further
comprising an arc-shaped cut in at least one of the first layer and
the second layer at a base of the first and second tabs.
[0079] 5. The package of any of items 1-4 and 6-22, wherein at
least a portion of the tear path in the first layer overlaps a
portion of the tear path in the second layer, and wherein at least
a portion of the tear path in the first layer does not overlap a
portion of the tear path in the second layer.
[0080] 6. The package of any of items 1-5 and 7-22, wherein a
perimeter of the package defines a tab end adjacent to the tab seal
zone and a product end opposite the tab end, wherein the first
perforation and the second perforation do not extend to the
perimeter at the tab end.
[0081] 7. The package of any of items 1-6 and 8-22, wherein the
perimeter further defines a first side edge and a second side edge
opposite the first side edge, wherein the first perforation extends
to the first side edge and does not extend to the second side edge,
and wherein the second perforation extends to the second side edge
and does not extend to the first side edge.
[0082] 8. The package of any of items 1-7 and 9-22, wherein the
first perforation and the second perforation do not extend to a
perimeter of the package.
[0083] 9. The package of any of items 1-8 and 10-22, wherein the
tab seal zone comprises a non-perforated area between a perimeter
of the package and the first and second perforations.
[0084] 10. The package of any of items 1-9 and 11-22, wherein the
tear path in the first layer starts at a longitudinal centerline of
the package and extends to a first side edge of the package, and
the tear path in the second layer starts at the longitudinal
centerline of the package and extends to a second side edge of the
package.
[0085] 11. The package of any of items 1-10 and 12-22, wherein the
tear path in the first layer at the centerline of the package
overlaps the tear path in the second layer at the centerline of the
package.
[0086] 12. The package of any of items 1-11 and 13-22, wherein the
first tab adjoins the second tab.
[0087] 13. The package of any of items 1-12 and 14-22, wherein at
least a portion of the tear path in the first layer is non-linear
and at least a portion of the tear path in the second layer is
non-linear.
[0088] 14. The package of any of items 1-13 and 15-22, wherein the
non-linear portion of the tear path in the first layer does not
overlap the non-linear portion of the tear path in the second
layer.
[0089] 15. The package of any of items 1-14 and 16-22, wherein at
least one of the first perforation and the second perforation is a
single perforation segment.
[0090] 16. The package of any of items 1-15 and 17-22, wherein at
least one of the first perforation and the second perforation
comprises two or more perforation segments.
[0091] 17. The package of any of items 1-16 and 18-22, wherein at
least one of the first perforation and the second perforation
comprises:
[0092] a first perforation segment; and
[0093] a second perforation segment intersecting the first
perforation segment.
[0094] 18. The package of any of items 1-17 and 19-22, wherein the
fold guide is located in a portion of the tab seal zone adjacent to
an overlap of the first perforation and the second perforation.
[0095] 19. The package of any of items 1-18 and 20-22, wherein the
fold guide indicates a fold line that is perpendicular to the first
perforation and the second perforation at a point of overlap.
[0096] 20. The package of any of items 1-19 and 21-22, wherein the
fold guide is at least one of:
[0097] a cut in at least one of the first and second layers,
wherein the cut does not intersect a perimeter of the package;
[0098] a crease;
[0099] a perforation in at least one of the first layer and the
second layer;
[0100] an embossed pattern in a surface of at least one of the
first layer and the second layer;
[0101] a debossed pattern in a surface of at least one of the first
layer and the second layer;
[0102] printed text; and
[0103] a printed graphic on the surface of at least one of the
first layer and the second layer.
[0104] 21. The package of any of items 1-20 and 22, wherein the
fold guide defines a flap portion in the tab seal zone at a tab end
of the package, and a product portion in a product seal zone at a
product end of the package.
[0105] 22. The package of any of items 1-21, further comprising: a
product seal zone opposite the tab seal zone, and an unsealed
portion of the package situated between the product seal zone and
the tab seal zone.
[0106] 23. A method of opening a child-proof package, the method
comprising:
[0107] folding a portion of the package along a fold guide to
define a flap portion separated from a product portion of the
package by a fold, the fold intersecting a first perforation in a
first layer of the package and a second perforation in a second
layer of the package at an intersection point, wherein the first
perforation overlaps the second perforation; and
[0108] tearing the product portion and the flap portion along a
first tear line defined by the first perforation and a second tear
line defined by the second perforation, the step of tearing
including
[0109] severing the first layer and the second layer at the
intersection point on the fold,
[0110] after severing the first layer and the second layer at the
intersection point, tearing the package along a first tear vector
and a second tear vector, the second tear vector oriented in a
direction opposite the first tear vector,
[0111] severing the first layer along a first segment of the first
perforation that does not overlap the second perforation, and
[0112] severing the second layer along a first segment of the
second perforation that does not overlap the first perforation;
[0113] whereby the step of severing the first layer and the second
layer causes a product inside of the package to be exposed.
[0114] 24. A method of forming a package for containing and
dispensing a product, the method comprising:
[0115] providing a first layer web and a second layer web;
[0116] placing a product on at least one pouch area of one of the
first and second layer webs;
[0117] forming a combined web by sealing the first layer web to the
second layer web at least at a product seal zone and a tab seal
zone such that the first layer is joined to the second layer by a
seal surrounding the at least one pouch area and a seal in the tab
seal zone;
[0118] forming a perforation in the tab seal zone of at least one
of the first layer web and the second layer web, the perforation
defining a first tab and a second tab of the package;
[0119] forming a fold guide in the tab seal zone of at least one of
the first layer web and the second layer web, the fold guide being
adjacent to the perforation; and
[0120] cutting at least one individual package around an outer
package perimeter to separate the individual package from the
combined web.
[0121] 25. The method of item 24, wherein the step of forming a
combined web further comprises leaving an unsealed zone adjacent to
an outer perimeter of the product seal zone where the first layer
web is not sealed to the second layer web.
* * * * *