CA2691086C - Tamper-evident seal for a container - Google Patents
Tamper-evident seal for a container Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2691086C CA2691086C CA2691086A CA2691086A CA2691086C CA 2691086 C CA2691086 C CA 2691086C CA 2691086 A CA2691086 A CA 2691086A CA 2691086 A CA2691086 A CA 2691086A CA 2691086 C CA2691086 C CA 2691086C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- lip
- container
- adhesive member
- affixed
- perforation line
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Active
Links
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 68
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 68
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 claims description 28
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 10
- -1 polyethylene terephthalate Polymers 0.000 claims description 9
- 229920000139 polyethylene terephthalate Polymers 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000005020 polyethylene terephthalate Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000004793 Polystyrene Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920002223 polystyrene Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000012815 thermoplastic material Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000003313 weakening effect Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 11
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 description 10
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 9
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 6
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 6
- 230000003014 reinforcing effect Effects 0.000 description 6
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000005755 formation reaction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 240000008415 Lactuca sativa Species 0.000 description 1
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N acrylic acid group Chemical group C(C=C)(=O)O NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 235000015173 baked goods and baking mixes Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000013351 cheese Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000013399 edible fruits Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000013601 eggs Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000013372 meat Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000012045 salad Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003856 thermoforming Methods 0.000 description 1
- 235000013311 vegetables Nutrition 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D43/00—Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D43/14—Non-removable lids or covers
- B65D43/16—Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement
- B65D43/162—Non-removable lids or covers hinged for upward or downward movement the container, the lid and the hinge being made of one piece
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D43/00—Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D43/02—Removable lids or covers
- B65D43/0235—Removable lids or covers with integral tamper element
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00018—Overall construction of the lid
- B65D2543/00064—Shape of the outer periphery
- B65D2543/0012—Shape of the outer periphery having straight sides, e.g. with curved corners
- B65D2543/00175—Shape of the outer periphery having straight sides, e.g. with curved corners four straight sides, e.g. trapezium or diamond
- B65D2543/00194—Shape of the outer periphery having straight sides, e.g. with curved corners four straight sides, e.g. trapezium or diamond square or rectangular
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00018—Overall construction of the lid
- B65D2543/00259—Materials used
- B65D2543/00296—Plastic
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00342—Central part of the lid
- B65D2543/00351—Dome-like
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00425—Lids or covers welded or adhered to the container
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00444—Contact between the container and the lid
- B65D2543/00481—Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container
- B65D2543/0049—Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container on the inside, or a part turned to the inside of the mouth of the container
- B65D2543/00527—NO contact
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2543/00—Lids or covers essentially for box-like containers
- B65D2543/00009—Details of lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D2543/00444—Contact between the container and the lid
- B65D2543/00481—Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container
- B65D2543/00537—Contact between the container and the lid on the inside or the outside of the container on the outside, or a part turned to the outside of the mouth of the container
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Packages (AREA)
- Containers Having Bodies Formed In One Piece (AREA)
- Closures For Containers (AREA)
Abstract
A container is provided which includes body having a top portion and a bottom portion. Each of the top portion and bottom portion have lips which are affixed together at a first location. A
perforation line is made in at least one of the top and bottom lips. The perforation line is between the first location and the container body. An adhesive member covers a portion of the perforation line between the top and bottom lip so that the adhesive member may be pulled through the perforation line to gain access inside the container body.
perforation line is made in at least one of the top and bottom lips. The perforation line is between the first location and the container body. An adhesive member covers a portion of the perforation line between the top and bottom lip so that the adhesive member may be pulled through the perforation line to gain access inside the container body.
Description
CA 02 691086 2 0 1 4 ¨ 12 ¨ 0 5 TAMEPER-EVIDENT SEAL FOR A CONTAINER
FaLD OF 1111 INVENTION
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to an improved container. More particularly, the present invention relates to a tamper-evident seal for a container which is easily opened.
BACKGROUND OF IILL INVENTION
FaLD OF 1111 INVENTION
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to an improved container. More particularly, the present invention relates to a tamper-evident seal for a container which is easily opened.
BACKGROUND OF IILL INVENTION
[0002] Plastic containers for distributing food and consumer goods are in common use. Such containers, when used for food, extend the shelf life of perishable products, resulting in savings to the food industry and fresher food to the consumer.
One concern of consumers is the integrity of the food within the container.
Consumers want to be assured that the food has not been tampered with prior to purchasing. It is desirable to provide such containers with a seal and a means to easily identify when those containers have been opened. Tamper evident seals for plastic containers are known in the art. Various prior art systems are available to provide evidence that a container has not been opened. One prior art method is to wrap the container with, a plastic band which must be cut to gain access to the container. Other, more sophisticated methods are also known. For example, two such methods are shown in United States published patent applications 2005/0184070 Al and 2007/0045317 A1.
Containers for non-food consumer products also may require tamper-evident seals so that consumers can be assured thaithey are receiving new products in factory condition.
One concern of consumers is the integrity of the food within the container.
Consumers want to be assured that the food has not been tampered with prior to purchasing. It is desirable to provide such containers with a seal and a means to easily identify when those containers have been opened. Tamper evident seals for plastic containers are known in the art. Various prior art systems are available to provide evidence that a container has not been opened. One prior art method is to wrap the container with, a plastic band which must be cut to gain access to the container. Other, more sophisticated methods are also known. For example, two such methods are shown in United States published patent applications 2005/0184070 Al and 2007/0045317 A1.
Containers for non-food consumer products also may require tamper-evident seals so that consumers can be assured thaithey are receiving new products in factory condition.
[0003] A tamper-evident seal is needed which is easy to open, inexpensive to produce and which provides ready evidence that the seal has been broken.
SUMMARY OF VIP INVENTION
SUMMARY OF VIP INVENTION
[0004] The present invention can be used in connection with a variety of plastic food and consumer product containers. The plastic used could be thermoplastic material such as polyethylene terephthalate (PETE), polystyrene, polypropylene and polyethylene, or other similar plastic material. The material may be, for example, from .010 to .050 inches thick. Such containers are typically made by thermoforming in a mold. The container could be of various sizes and configurations depending on the purpose of the container. The container could be used for food, such as baked goods, fruit, vegetables, meat, cheese, salads, eggs and other food items. The container could also be used for retail products such as batteries, compact disks, .razors, electronics, hardware, tools and other products.
10005] In one embodiment, the invention employs a single-piece thermoformed container consisting of a boftom portion and a top portion joined by a hinge.
In another embodiment, the container includes separate top and bottom portions which = may be attached to one another. Preferably, the top and bottom portions are attached to one another near the edges through ultrasonic welding, heat staking, stitch welding or similar methods. If the top and bottom portions are joined by a hinge, then the welding can be on the side of the container opposite the hinge. Ifthe top and bottom are separate, two or more sides can be attached to one another by ultrasonic welding, heat staking, stitch welding or similar methods.
[00061 In either case, the top and bottom portions each have at least one lip extending out from the container body. A series of portions of weakened material or aligned cuts, such as perforations are disposed in one of the top or bottom lip portions.
The lip can have one or two perforation lines. The perforations can be made with a steel rule die. In one example die, the teeth are spaced at 30 teeth per inch.
Dr perforations are between the weld line and the body of the container on at least one side of the container. The perforation line is covered with an adhesive member such as tape, preferably, polypropylene or PETE tape, with, for example, an aqueous based acrylic or rubber based adhesive. One suitable tape is filament reinforced tape such as TM
Scotch Tear Tape sold by 3MTM CorpOration of St. Paul, Minnesota. The adhesive member is placed between the top and bottom lips and a portion of the adhesive member projects out from between the lips.
[0007] To gain access to the container body, the adhesive member is pulled through the perforation line, breaking the perforations. The portions of the lips which are affixed to one another remain affixed, but the container may be opened because the perforation line is between the part of the lip which is affixed to the other lip and the container body. When the perforation line is broken it is evident that the container has been opened.
[00081 The top portion and bottom portion can each have second lips which extend from the container body. These second lips can also be joined by welding or other similar inethods and can include one or two perforation lines covered by an adhesive member, in the manner as described above.
f0008a1 In another embodiment of the present invention there is provided a container comprising.: a container body having a top portion and a bottom portion; the top portion and the bottom portion forming a connection around their periphery, the top portion and the bottom portion including a periphery of sides, the top portion and the bottom portion permanently affixed to one another by a flexible material forming a hinge between the peripheral edge of the top portion and the peripheral edge of the bottom portion along one of the plurality of sides; a:top lip extending from the top portion; a bottom lip extending, from the bottom portion, a portion of the top lip affixed to a portion of the bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the top lip and the bottom lip; two perforation lines in only one of the top lip and the bottom lip, the perforation lines situated at a point on the selected lip between the location at \ vhich the top lip and bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body, along the side opposite the hinge; an adhesive member spanning entirely between the perforation lines. the adhesive member layered between the top tip and the bottom lip, whereby the adhesive member may be pulled to tear the perforation tines in one ofthe top and bottom lips and the adhesive member is completely removed from the containersuch that no portion of the adhesive member remains attached to the = container, to gain access inside the container body whereby the portion of the top lip affixed to the bottom lip remains attached to the container.
10008b1 In a further embodiment of the present invention there is provided a container comprising: a container body having a top portion and a bottom portion, the top portion and bottom portion forming a connection around their periphery, the top portion and the bottom portion including a periphery of sides, the top portion and the bottom portion permanently affixed to one= another by a flexible material forming a hinge between the peripheral edge of the top portion and the peripheral edge of the bottom portion along one of the plurality of sides: a first top lip extending -from the top portion; a first bottom lip extending front the bottom portion, a portion of the .first -top lip affixed to a portion oldie first bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the first top lip and the first bottom lip; a first perforation line in only one of the first top lip and the first bottom lip, the first perforation line situated at a point on the selected first lip between the location at which the first top lip and the first bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected first lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body; a second perforation line in only one of the first top lip and the first bottom lip, the second perforation line situated at a point on the selected first lip between the location at which the first top lip and the 'first bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected first lip where it meets the sidewall portion of -the container body; the first perforation line situated parallel to the second perforation line, the first perforation line and the second perforation line extending lengthwise along the first selected lip; a second top lip extending from the top portion;
a second bottom lip extending from the bottom portion, the second top lip affixed to a portion of the second bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the second top lip and the second bottom lip; a .third perforation line in only one of the second top lip and the second bottom lip, the third perforation line situated at a point on the selected second lip between the location at which the second top lip and the second bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected second lip where it meets. the sidewall portion of the container body; a fourth perforation line in only one of the second top lip and the second bottom lip. the fourth perforation line situated at a point on the selected second lip .between the location at which the second top lip and the second 'bottom lip are affixed and the central edge ofthe selected second lip where it meets the sidewail portion of -the container body: the third perforation line situated parallel to the fourth perforation line, the third perforation line and the fourth perforation line extending lengthwise along the second selected lip:
a first adhesive member spanning entirely between the first and second perforation lines, the first adhesive member layered between the first top lip and the .first bottom lip, whereby the first adhesive member inay be pulled to -tear the first and second perforation lines and the first adhesive member is completely' removed .from the container such that no portion of the first adhesive member remains attached to the 3a container, to gain access inside the container body: and a second adhesive member spanning ,entirely between the third and fourth perforation lines. the second adhesive member layered between the second top lip and the second bottom lip. whereby the second adhesive member may be pulled to tear the third and fourth perforation lines and the second adhesive member is completely removed from the container such that no portion of the second adhesive member remains attached to the container, 'to gain access inside the container body whereby the portion of the first top lip affixed to the first bottom lip and a portion of the second top lip affixed to the second bottom lip remain attached to the container.
10008cl ln yet another embodiment of the present invention there is provided a container comprising: a container body having a top portion and a bottom portion, the top portion and the bottom portion forming a connection around their periphery, the top portion and the bottom portion including a plurality of sides, the top portion and the bottom portion permanently affixed to one another by a flexible material forming a hinge between the peripheral edge of the top portion and the peripheral edge of the bottom portion along one of the plurality of sides; a top lip extending from the top portion; a bottom lip extending from the bottom 'portion, a portion of the top lip affixed to a portion of the bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the top lip and the bottom lip; two perforation lines in only one of the top lip and the bottom lip, the perforation lines situated at a point on the selected lip between the location at which the top lip and the bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body. alone the side opposite the hinge; and an adhesive member spanning entirely between the perforation lines. the adhesive member layered between the top lip and bottom lip and attached to only one of the top lip and bottom lip. whereby the adhesive member may be pulled to tear the perforation lines to gain access inside the container body whereby the portion of the top lip affixed to the bottom lip remains attached to the container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
10009j Embodiments and applications of the invention are illustrated by the attached non-limiting drawings. The attached drawings are for purposes of illustrating the concepts of the invention and may not be to scale.
3b [00101 FIG. I is a side elevation view of a container according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[00111 FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the container of FIG. I;
[00121 FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the container of FIG. I;
100131 FIG. 4 is an isometric view of the container of FIG. 1 after closing and sealing the container:
[00141 FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 4 taken along line =
10005] In one embodiment, the invention employs a single-piece thermoformed container consisting of a boftom portion and a top portion joined by a hinge.
In another embodiment, the container includes separate top and bottom portions which = may be attached to one another. Preferably, the top and bottom portions are attached to one another near the edges through ultrasonic welding, heat staking, stitch welding or similar methods. If the top and bottom portions are joined by a hinge, then the welding can be on the side of the container opposite the hinge. Ifthe top and bottom are separate, two or more sides can be attached to one another by ultrasonic welding, heat staking, stitch welding or similar methods.
[00061 In either case, the top and bottom portions each have at least one lip extending out from the container body. A series of portions of weakened material or aligned cuts, such as perforations are disposed in one of the top or bottom lip portions.
The lip can have one or two perforation lines. The perforations can be made with a steel rule die. In one example die, the teeth are spaced at 30 teeth per inch.
Dr perforations are between the weld line and the body of the container on at least one side of the container. The perforation line is covered with an adhesive member such as tape, preferably, polypropylene or PETE tape, with, for example, an aqueous based acrylic or rubber based adhesive. One suitable tape is filament reinforced tape such as TM
Scotch Tear Tape sold by 3MTM CorpOration of St. Paul, Minnesota. The adhesive member is placed between the top and bottom lips and a portion of the adhesive member projects out from between the lips.
[0007] To gain access to the container body, the adhesive member is pulled through the perforation line, breaking the perforations. The portions of the lips which are affixed to one another remain affixed, but the container may be opened because the perforation line is between the part of the lip which is affixed to the other lip and the container body. When the perforation line is broken it is evident that the container has been opened.
[00081 The top portion and bottom portion can each have second lips which extend from the container body. These second lips can also be joined by welding or other similar inethods and can include one or two perforation lines covered by an adhesive member, in the manner as described above.
f0008a1 In another embodiment of the present invention there is provided a container comprising.: a container body having a top portion and a bottom portion; the top portion and the bottom portion forming a connection around their periphery, the top portion and the bottom portion including a periphery of sides, the top portion and the bottom portion permanently affixed to one another by a flexible material forming a hinge between the peripheral edge of the top portion and the peripheral edge of the bottom portion along one of the plurality of sides; a:top lip extending from the top portion; a bottom lip extending, from the bottom portion, a portion of the top lip affixed to a portion of the bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the top lip and the bottom lip; two perforation lines in only one of the top lip and the bottom lip, the perforation lines situated at a point on the selected lip between the location at \ vhich the top lip and bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body, along the side opposite the hinge; an adhesive member spanning entirely between the perforation lines. the adhesive member layered between the top tip and the bottom lip, whereby the adhesive member may be pulled to tear the perforation tines in one ofthe top and bottom lips and the adhesive member is completely removed from the containersuch that no portion of the adhesive member remains attached to the = container, to gain access inside the container body whereby the portion of the top lip affixed to the bottom lip remains attached to the container.
10008b1 In a further embodiment of the present invention there is provided a container comprising: a container body having a top portion and a bottom portion, the top portion and bottom portion forming a connection around their periphery, the top portion and the bottom portion including a periphery of sides, the top portion and the bottom portion permanently affixed to one= another by a flexible material forming a hinge between the peripheral edge of the top portion and the peripheral edge of the bottom portion along one of the plurality of sides: a first top lip extending -from the top portion; a first bottom lip extending front the bottom portion, a portion of the .first -top lip affixed to a portion oldie first bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the first top lip and the first bottom lip; a first perforation line in only one of the first top lip and the first bottom lip, the first perforation line situated at a point on the selected first lip between the location at which the first top lip and the first bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected first lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body; a second perforation line in only one of the first top lip and the first bottom lip, the second perforation line situated at a point on the selected first lip between the location at which the first top lip and the 'first bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected first lip where it meets the sidewall portion of -the container body; the first perforation line situated parallel to the second perforation line, the first perforation line and the second perforation line extending lengthwise along the first selected lip; a second top lip extending from the top portion;
a second bottom lip extending from the bottom portion, the second top lip affixed to a portion of the second bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the second top lip and the second bottom lip; a .third perforation line in only one of the second top lip and the second bottom lip, the third perforation line situated at a point on the selected second lip between the location at which the second top lip and the second bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected second lip where it meets. the sidewall portion of the container body; a fourth perforation line in only one of the second top lip and the second bottom lip. the fourth perforation line situated at a point on the selected second lip .between the location at which the second top lip and the second 'bottom lip are affixed and the central edge ofthe selected second lip where it meets the sidewail portion of -the container body: the third perforation line situated parallel to the fourth perforation line, the third perforation line and the fourth perforation line extending lengthwise along the second selected lip:
a first adhesive member spanning entirely between the first and second perforation lines, the first adhesive member layered between the first top lip and the .first bottom lip, whereby the first adhesive member inay be pulled to -tear the first and second perforation lines and the first adhesive member is completely' removed .from the container such that no portion of the first adhesive member remains attached to the 3a container, to gain access inside the container body: and a second adhesive member spanning ,entirely between the third and fourth perforation lines. the second adhesive member layered between the second top lip and the second bottom lip. whereby the second adhesive member may be pulled to tear the third and fourth perforation lines and the second adhesive member is completely removed from the container such that no portion of the second adhesive member remains attached to the container, 'to gain access inside the container body whereby the portion of the first top lip affixed to the first bottom lip and a portion of the second top lip affixed to the second bottom lip remain attached to the container.
10008cl ln yet another embodiment of the present invention there is provided a container comprising: a container body having a top portion and a bottom portion, the top portion and the bottom portion forming a connection around their periphery, the top portion and the bottom portion including a plurality of sides, the top portion and the bottom portion permanently affixed to one another by a flexible material forming a hinge between the peripheral edge of the top portion and the peripheral edge of the bottom portion along one of the plurality of sides; a top lip extending from the top portion; a bottom lip extending from the bottom 'portion, a portion of the top lip affixed to a portion of the bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the top lip and the bottom lip; two perforation lines in only one of the top lip and the bottom lip, the perforation lines situated at a point on the selected lip between the location at which the top lip and the bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body. alone the side opposite the hinge; and an adhesive member spanning entirely between the perforation lines. the adhesive member layered between the top lip and bottom lip and attached to only one of the top lip and bottom lip. whereby the adhesive member may be pulled to tear the perforation lines to gain access inside the container body whereby the portion of the top lip affixed to the bottom lip remains attached to the container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
10009j Embodiments and applications of the invention are illustrated by the attached non-limiting drawings. The attached drawings are for purposes of illustrating the concepts of the invention and may not be to scale.
3b [00101 FIG. I is a side elevation view of a container according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[00111 FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the container of FIG. I;
[00121 FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the container of FIG. I;
100131 FIG. 4 is an isometric view of the container of FIG. 1 after closing and sealing the container:
[00141 FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the container of FIG. 4 taken along line =
5-5 in FIG. 4;
[0015] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the container oî FIG. 4 taken along line
[0015] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the container oî FIG. 4 taken along line
6-6 in FIG. 4;
= [00161 FIG. 7 is perspective view of another embodiment 0 the present invention;
[017] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the invention of FIG. 7:
100181 FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention showing the top portion separated from the bottom portion;
100191 FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a. portion of the top portion of the invention of FIG. 9;
[00201 FIG. I I is a perspective view of a portion of the bottom portion of the invention of FIG. 9; and =
3c [0021] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the invention of FIG. 9 in the closed position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0022] Throughout the following description specific details are presented to provide a more thorough understanding to persons skilled in the art. However, well-known elements may not have been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the disclosure. Accordingly, the description and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative, rather than a restrictive, sense.
[0023] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to Figures 1 -12. Figure 1 shows one particular shape for a container 10, it being understood that the container 10 is shown in this shape for illustration purposes only and that the container could take on a wide variety of shapes, sizes and configurations. Figure 1 shows the container 10 in an open orientation having a top portion 12 and a bottom portion 14. The top portion 12 has a lip 20 extending away from the container top body 16. The bottom portion 14 also has a lip 22 extending from the container bottom body 18. The top portion 12 can have reinforcing ribs 24 and the bottom portion 14 can also have reinforcing ribs 26. A hinge 27 is provided between the container top body 16 and the container bottom body 18.
[0024] As shown in Figure 6, the bottom portion 14 has an upwardly extending wall 28 and the top portion 12 has a sidewall portion 30. When the container is closed, the upwardly extending wall 28 presses against the sidewall portion 30 to hold the container closed. Other configurations for interlocking parts are commonly used and will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.
[0025] Reference is now made to Figures 2 and 3. It will be understood that while certain features are described in association with the lip 20, this is done for illustration purposes, and that those features could be associated with lip 22 instead. In Figures 2 and 3, the lip 20 on the top portion 12 includes a perforation line 34 extending lengthwise along the lip 20. The perforation line 34 consists of a series of aligned cuts or weakened portions of the lip 20. In one example embodiment, the cuts or weakened portions may be between 20 to 40 per inch, separated by, for example, material which is 0.012 inches long, although various other dimensions of perforations will work. Although shown as straight, the perforation line may have other geometries. The perforation line 34 is covered with an adhesive strip 36.
Preferably, the lip 20 terminates at both ends in tabs 40 and 42, which are removably attached to the lip 20. Adhesive strip 36 extends, preferably, to both tabs 40 and 42.
Adhesive strip 36 is preferably constructed of filament reinforced tape, but other adhesive members can be used.
[0026] Figure 4 shows the container 10 in the closed configuration. The lips 20 and 22 have been affixed together by a know technique such as ultrasonic welding, heat staking or other techniques. For illustration purposes, the lips 20 and 22 are shown as welded together by welds 50. The welds may be in the range of 0.06 inches to 0.1 inches in diameter. The welds may be separated from one another by spaces of 0.12 inches to 0.19 inches, for example. Other dimensions for the size of the welds and the spacing between the welds will work. When closed, the container 10 has adhesive strip 36 between lips 20 and 22.
[0027] The perforation line 34 must be broken to access the contents of the container 10. The perforation line 34 can be broken by grasping tab 40 or 42 and pulling adhesive strip 36 through the perforation line 34. Figure 4 shows tab separated from the lip 20 and pulled partially through perforation line 34.
Figure 5 illustrates the partial opening of container 10 as well. Because the perforation line 34 is between the welds 50 and the container top body 16, a portion of the lip 20 will remain attached to the lip 22 as the perforation line 34 is broken. Once the perforation line 34 is broken, the container 10 can be opened.
[0028] As shown in Figure 7, instead of being joined by a hinge, the top portion 112 and bottom portion 114 of container 110 could alternatively comprise two separate pieces. The top portion 112 has a lip 120 extending away from the container top body 116. The bottom portion 114 also has a lip 122 extending from the container bottom body 118. The top portion 112 can have reinforcing formations 124 and the bottom portion 114 can also have reinforcing formations 126. A hinge 127 is created by providing a perforation line 129 on the lip 160 inside of weld line 131, although other hinge mechanisms are possible.
[0029] As shown in Figure 8, the lip 120 on the top portion 112 includes two perforation lines 134 and 135 extending lengthwise along the lip 120. The perforation lines 134 and 135 consist of a series of aligned cuts or weakened portions of the lip 120. The perforation lines 134 and 135 are shown as straight, but may have other geometries. The perforation lines 134 and 135 are covered with an adhesive strip 136.
Preferably, the lip 120 terminates at both ends in tabs 140 and 142, which are removably attached to the lip 120. Adhesive strip 136 extends, preferably, to both tabs 140 and 142. Adhesive strip 136 is preferably constructed of filament reinforced tape, but other adhesive members can be used.
[0030] As shown in Figs. 7 and 8, the lips 120 and 122 have been affixed together by ultrasonic welding, heat staking or other techniques. Ultrasonic welds 150 are shown as an example method of affixing the lips together. When closed, the container 110 has adhesive strip 136 between lips 120 and 122. Lips 160 and 162 have also been affixed together by, for example, ultrasonic welds 151.
[0031] As with the embodiment shown in Fig. 4, the perforation lines 134 and 135 must be broken to access the contents of the container 110. The perforation lines 134 and 135 can be broken by grasping tab 140 or 142 and pulling adhesive strip through the perforation lines 134 and 135.
[0032] Figures 9-12 show another example embodiment. As shown in Fig. 9 and 12, the top portion 212 and bottom portion 214 of container 210 could comprise two separate pieces. The top portion 212 has a lip 220 extending away from the container top body 216. As best seen in Figure 11, the bottom portion 214 also has a lip extending from the container bottom body 218. The top portion 212 can have reinforcing formations 224 and the bottom portion 214 can also have reinforcing formations 226. The top portion 212 has a lip 260. The bottom portion has a lip 262.
[0033] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the lip 220 on the top portion 212 includes two perforation lines 234 and 235 extending lengthwise along the lip 220. The perforation lines 234 and 235 consist of a series of aligned cuts or weakened portions of the lip 220. It is not necessary that the perforation lines 234 and 235 be straight.
The perforation lines 234 and 235 are covered with an adhesive strip 236.
Preferably, the lip 220 terminates at both ends in tabs 240 and 242, which are removably attached to the lip 220. Adhesive strip 236 extends, preferably, to both tabs 240 and 242.
Adhesive strip 236 is preferably constructed of filament reinforced tape, but other adhesive members can be used.
[0034] The lips 220 and 222 have been affixed together by ultrasonic welding, heat staking or other techniques. Ultrasonic welds 250 are shown for as an example method of affixing the lips together. When closed, the container 210 has adhesive strip 236 between lips 220 and 222. As shown in FIG. 12, lips 260 and 262 have also been affixed together by, for example, ultrasonic welds 251. Lip 260 also has two perforation lines 264 and 265. The perforation lines 264 and 265 are covered with an adhesive strip 270. The lip 260 terminates at tabs 266 and 268.
[0035] All perforation lines 234, 235, 264 and 265 must be broken to access the contents of the container 210. The perforation lines 234 and 235 can be broken by grasping one of the tabs 240 and 242 and pulling adhesive strip 236 through the perforation lines 234 and 235. Similarly, the perforation lines 264 and 265 can be broken by pulling on tabs 266 or 268 to pull adhesive strip 270 through the perforation lines 264 and 265.
[0036] It is to be understood that the exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative of the present invention and that many variations of the above-described embodiments can be devised by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. It is therefore intended that all such variations be included within the scope of the following claims and their equivalent.
= [00161 FIG. 7 is perspective view of another embodiment 0 the present invention;
[017] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the invention of FIG. 7:
100181 FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention showing the top portion separated from the bottom portion;
100191 FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a. portion of the top portion of the invention of FIG. 9;
[00201 FIG. I I is a perspective view of a portion of the bottom portion of the invention of FIG. 9; and =
3c [0021] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the invention of FIG. 9 in the closed position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0022] Throughout the following description specific details are presented to provide a more thorough understanding to persons skilled in the art. However, well-known elements may not have been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the disclosure. Accordingly, the description and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative, rather than a restrictive, sense.
[0023] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to Figures 1 -12. Figure 1 shows one particular shape for a container 10, it being understood that the container 10 is shown in this shape for illustration purposes only and that the container could take on a wide variety of shapes, sizes and configurations. Figure 1 shows the container 10 in an open orientation having a top portion 12 and a bottom portion 14. The top portion 12 has a lip 20 extending away from the container top body 16. The bottom portion 14 also has a lip 22 extending from the container bottom body 18. The top portion 12 can have reinforcing ribs 24 and the bottom portion 14 can also have reinforcing ribs 26. A hinge 27 is provided between the container top body 16 and the container bottom body 18.
[0024] As shown in Figure 6, the bottom portion 14 has an upwardly extending wall 28 and the top portion 12 has a sidewall portion 30. When the container is closed, the upwardly extending wall 28 presses against the sidewall portion 30 to hold the container closed. Other configurations for interlocking parts are commonly used and will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.
[0025] Reference is now made to Figures 2 and 3. It will be understood that while certain features are described in association with the lip 20, this is done for illustration purposes, and that those features could be associated with lip 22 instead. In Figures 2 and 3, the lip 20 on the top portion 12 includes a perforation line 34 extending lengthwise along the lip 20. The perforation line 34 consists of a series of aligned cuts or weakened portions of the lip 20. In one example embodiment, the cuts or weakened portions may be between 20 to 40 per inch, separated by, for example, material which is 0.012 inches long, although various other dimensions of perforations will work. Although shown as straight, the perforation line may have other geometries. The perforation line 34 is covered with an adhesive strip 36.
Preferably, the lip 20 terminates at both ends in tabs 40 and 42, which are removably attached to the lip 20. Adhesive strip 36 extends, preferably, to both tabs 40 and 42.
Adhesive strip 36 is preferably constructed of filament reinforced tape, but other adhesive members can be used.
[0026] Figure 4 shows the container 10 in the closed configuration. The lips 20 and 22 have been affixed together by a know technique such as ultrasonic welding, heat staking or other techniques. For illustration purposes, the lips 20 and 22 are shown as welded together by welds 50. The welds may be in the range of 0.06 inches to 0.1 inches in diameter. The welds may be separated from one another by spaces of 0.12 inches to 0.19 inches, for example. Other dimensions for the size of the welds and the spacing between the welds will work. When closed, the container 10 has adhesive strip 36 between lips 20 and 22.
[0027] The perforation line 34 must be broken to access the contents of the container 10. The perforation line 34 can be broken by grasping tab 40 or 42 and pulling adhesive strip 36 through the perforation line 34. Figure 4 shows tab separated from the lip 20 and pulled partially through perforation line 34.
Figure 5 illustrates the partial opening of container 10 as well. Because the perforation line 34 is between the welds 50 and the container top body 16, a portion of the lip 20 will remain attached to the lip 22 as the perforation line 34 is broken. Once the perforation line 34 is broken, the container 10 can be opened.
[0028] As shown in Figure 7, instead of being joined by a hinge, the top portion 112 and bottom portion 114 of container 110 could alternatively comprise two separate pieces. The top portion 112 has a lip 120 extending away from the container top body 116. The bottom portion 114 also has a lip 122 extending from the container bottom body 118. The top portion 112 can have reinforcing formations 124 and the bottom portion 114 can also have reinforcing formations 126. A hinge 127 is created by providing a perforation line 129 on the lip 160 inside of weld line 131, although other hinge mechanisms are possible.
[0029] As shown in Figure 8, the lip 120 on the top portion 112 includes two perforation lines 134 and 135 extending lengthwise along the lip 120. The perforation lines 134 and 135 consist of a series of aligned cuts or weakened portions of the lip 120. The perforation lines 134 and 135 are shown as straight, but may have other geometries. The perforation lines 134 and 135 are covered with an adhesive strip 136.
Preferably, the lip 120 terminates at both ends in tabs 140 and 142, which are removably attached to the lip 120. Adhesive strip 136 extends, preferably, to both tabs 140 and 142. Adhesive strip 136 is preferably constructed of filament reinforced tape, but other adhesive members can be used.
[0030] As shown in Figs. 7 and 8, the lips 120 and 122 have been affixed together by ultrasonic welding, heat staking or other techniques. Ultrasonic welds 150 are shown as an example method of affixing the lips together. When closed, the container 110 has adhesive strip 136 between lips 120 and 122. Lips 160 and 162 have also been affixed together by, for example, ultrasonic welds 151.
[0031] As with the embodiment shown in Fig. 4, the perforation lines 134 and 135 must be broken to access the contents of the container 110. The perforation lines 134 and 135 can be broken by grasping tab 140 or 142 and pulling adhesive strip through the perforation lines 134 and 135.
[0032] Figures 9-12 show another example embodiment. As shown in Fig. 9 and 12, the top portion 212 and bottom portion 214 of container 210 could comprise two separate pieces. The top portion 212 has a lip 220 extending away from the container top body 216. As best seen in Figure 11, the bottom portion 214 also has a lip extending from the container bottom body 218. The top portion 212 can have reinforcing formations 224 and the bottom portion 214 can also have reinforcing formations 226. The top portion 212 has a lip 260. The bottom portion has a lip 262.
[0033] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the lip 220 on the top portion 212 includes two perforation lines 234 and 235 extending lengthwise along the lip 220. The perforation lines 234 and 235 consist of a series of aligned cuts or weakened portions of the lip 220. It is not necessary that the perforation lines 234 and 235 be straight.
The perforation lines 234 and 235 are covered with an adhesive strip 236.
Preferably, the lip 220 terminates at both ends in tabs 240 and 242, which are removably attached to the lip 220. Adhesive strip 236 extends, preferably, to both tabs 240 and 242.
Adhesive strip 236 is preferably constructed of filament reinforced tape, but other adhesive members can be used.
[0034] The lips 220 and 222 have been affixed together by ultrasonic welding, heat staking or other techniques. Ultrasonic welds 250 are shown for as an example method of affixing the lips together. When closed, the container 210 has adhesive strip 236 between lips 220 and 222. As shown in FIG. 12, lips 260 and 262 have also been affixed together by, for example, ultrasonic welds 251. Lip 260 also has two perforation lines 264 and 265. The perforation lines 264 and 265 are covered with an adhesive strip 270. The lip 260 terminates at tabs 266 and 268.
[0035] All perforation lines 234, 235, 264 and 265 must be broken to access the contents of the container 210. The perforation lines 234 and 235 can be broken by grasping one of the tabs 240 and 242 and pulling adhesive strip 236 through the perforation lines 234 and 235. Similarly, the perforation lines 264 and 265 can be broken by pulling on tabs 266 or 268 to pull adhesive strip 270 through the perforation lines 264 and 265.
[0036] It is to be understood that the exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative of the present invention and that many variations of the above-described embodiments can be devised by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. It is therefore intended that all such variations be included within the scope of the following claims and their equivalent.
7
Claims (17)
1. A container comprising:
a container body having a top portion and a bottom portion, the top portion and the bottom portion forming a connection around their periphery, the top portion and the bottom portion including a periphery of sides, the top portion and the bottom portion permanently affixed to one another by a flexible material forming a hinge between the peripheral edge of the top portion and the peripheral edge of the bottom portion along one of the plurality of sides;
a top lip extending from the top portion;
a bottom lip extending from the bottom portion, a portion of the top lip affixed to a portion of the bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the top lip and the bottom lip;
two perforation lines in only one of the top lip and the bottom lip, the perforation lines situated at a point on the selected lip between the location at which the top lip and bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body, along the side opposite the hinge;
an adhesive member spanning entirely between the perforation lines, the adhesive member layered between the top lip and the bottom lip, whereby the adhesive member may be pulled to tear the perforation lines in one of the top and bottom lips and the adhesive member is completely removed from the container such that no portion of the adhesive member remains attached to the container, to gain access inside the container body whereby the portion of the top lip affixed to the bottom lip remains attached to the container.
a container body having a top portion and a bottom portion, the top portion and the bottom portion forming a connection around their periphery, the top portion and the bottom portion including a periphery of sides, the top portion and the bottom portion permanently affixed to one another by a flexible material forming a hinge between the peripheral edge of the top portion and the peripheral edge of the bottom portion along one of the plurality of sides;
a top lip extending from the top portion;
a bottom lip extending from the bottom portion, a portion of the top lip affixed to a portion of the bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the top lip and the bottom lip;
two perforation lines in only one of the top lip and the bottom lip, the perforation lines situated at a point on the selected lip between the location at which the top lip and bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body, along the side opposite the hinge;
an adhesive member spanning entirely between the perforation lines, the adhesive member layered between the top lip and the bottom lip, whereby the adhesive member may be pulled to tear the perforation lines in one of the top and bottom lips and the adhesive member is completely removed from the container such that no portion of the adhesive member remains attached to the container, to gain access inside the container body whereby the portion of the top lip affixed to the bottom lip remains attached to the container.
2. The container of claim 1 wherein the top and bottom lips are ultrasonically welded together.
3. The container of claim 1 wherein the top and bottom lips are heat-staked together.
4. The container of any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the perforation lines comprise a weakening of a selected one of the top or bottom lips.
5. The container of claim 4 wherein the weakening comprises a series of aligned cuts in the selected lip.
6. The container of claim 5 wherein the aligned cuts penetrate completely through the selected lip.
7. The container of any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein the adhesive member extends beyond one of the top and bottom lips.
8. The container of claim 7 wherein a portion of the adhesive member which extends beyond one of the top and bottom lips is attached to a grasping tab of one of the top and bottom lips.
9. The container of any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein at least one of the top and bottom portions are made from thermoplastic material.
10. The container of any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein at least one of the top and bottom portions are made from polyethylene terephthalate.
11. The container of any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein at least one of the top and bottom portions are made from polystyrene.
12. The container of any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein at least one of the top and bottom portions are made from polypropylene.
13. The container of any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein at least one of the top and bottom portions are made from polyethylene.
14. The container of any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein the adhesive member is made from polypropylene.
15. The container of any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein the adhesive member is made from polyethylene terephthalate.
16. A container comprising:
a container body having a top portion and a bottom portion, the top portion and bottom portion forming a connection around their periphery, the top portion and the bottom portion including a periphery of sides, the top portion and the bottom portion permanently affixed to one another by a flexible material forming a hinge between the peripheral edge of the top portion and the peripheral edge of the bottom portion along one of the plurality of sides;
a first top lip extending from the top portion;
a first bottom lip extending from the bottom portion, a portion of the first top lip affixed to a portion of the first bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the first top lip and the first bottom lip;
a first perforation line in only one of the first top lip and the first bottom lip, the first perforation line situated at a point on the selected first lip between the location at which the first top lip and the first bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected first lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body;
a second perforation line in only one of the first top lip and the first bottom lip, the second perforation line situated at a point on the selected first lip between the location at which the first top lip and the first bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected first lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body;
the first perforation line situated parallel to the second perforation line, the first perforation line and the second perforation line extending lengthwise along the first selected lip;
a second top lip extending from the top portion;
a second bottom lip extending from the bottom portion, the second top lip affixed to a portion of the second bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the second top lip and the second bottom lip;
a third perforation line in only one of the second top lip and the second bottom lip, the third perforation line situated at a point on the selected second lip between the location at which the second top lip and the second bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected second lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body;
a fourth perforation line in only one of the second top lip and the second bottom lip, the fourth perforation line situated at a point on the selected second lip between the location at which the second top lip and the second bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected second lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body;
the third perforation line situated parallel to the fourth perforation line, the third perforation line and the fourth perforation line extending lengthwise along the second selected lip;
a first adhesive member spanning entirely between the first and second perforation lines, the first adhesive member layered between the first top lip and the first bottom lip, whereby the first adhesive member may be pulled to tear the first and second perforation lines and the first adhesive member is completely removed from the container such that no portion of the first adhesive member remains attached to the container, to gain access inside the container body; and a second adhesive member spanning entirely between the third and fourth perforation lines, the second adhesive member layered between the second top lip and the second bottom lip, whereby the second adhesive member may be pulled to tear the third and fourth perforation lines and the second adhesive member is completely removed from the container such that no portion of the second adhesive member remains attached to the container, to gain access inside the container body whereby the portion of the first top lip affixed to the first bottom lip and a portion of the second top lip affixed to the second bottom lip remain attached to the container.
a container body having a top portion and a bottom portion, the top portion and bottom portion forming a connection around their periphery, the top portion and the bottom portion including a periphery of sides, the top portion and the bottom portion permanently affixed to one another by a flexible material forming a hinge between the peripheral edge of the top portion and the peripheral edge of the bottom portion along one of the plurality of sides;
a first top lip extending from the top portion;
a first bottom lip extending from the bottom portion, a portion of the first top lip affixed to a portion of the first bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the first top lip and the first bottom lip;
a first perforation line in only one of the first top lip and the first bottom lip, the first perforation line situated at a point on the selected first lip between the location at which the first top lip and the first bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected first lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body;
a second perforation line in only one of the first top lip and the first bottom lip, the second perforation line situated at a point on the selected first lip between the location at which the first top lip and the first bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected first lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body;
the first perforation line situated parallel to the second perforation line, the first perforation line and the second perforation line extending lengthwise along the first selected lip;
a second top lip extending from the top portion;
a second bottom lip extending from the bottom portion, the second top lip affixed to a portion of the second bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the second top lip and the second bottom lip;
a third perforation line in only one of the second top lip and the second bottom lip, the third perforation line situated at a point on the selected second lip between the location at which the second top lip and the second bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected second lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body;
a fourth perforation line in only one of the second top lip and the second bottom lip, the fourth perforation line situated at a point on the selected second lip between the location at which the second top lip and the second bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected second lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body;
the third perforation line situated parallel to the fourth perforation line, the third perforation line and the fourth perforation line extending lengthwise along the second selected lip;
a first adhesive member spanning entirely between the first and second perforation lines, the first adhesive member layered between the first top lip and the first bottom lip, whereby the first adhesive member may be pulled to tear the first and second perforation lines and the first adhesive member is completely removed from the container such that no portion of the first adhesive member remains attached to the container, to gain access inside the container body; and a second adhesive member spanning entirely between the third and fourth perforation lines, the second adhesive member layered between the second top lip and the second bottom lip, whereby the second adhesive member may be pulled to tear the third and fourth perforation lines and the second adhesive member is completely removed from the container such that no portion of the second adhesive member remains attached to the container, to gain access inside the container body whereby the portion of the first top lip affixed to the first bottom lip and a portion of the second top lip affixed to the second bottom lip remain attached to the container.
17. A container comprising:
a container body having a top portion and a bottom portion, the top portion and the bottom portion forming a connection around their periphery, the top portion and the bottom portion including a plurality of sides, the top portion and the bottom portion permanently affixed to one another by a flexible material forming a hinge between the peripheral edge of the top portion and the peripheral edge of the bottom portion along one of the plurality of sides;
a top lip extending from the top portion;
a bottom lip extending from the bottom portion, a portion of the top lip affixed to a portion of the bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the top lip and the bottom lip;
two perforation lines in only one of the top lip and the bottom lip, the perforation lines situated at a point on the selected lip between the location at which the top lip and the bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body, along the side opposite the hinge; and an adhesive member spanning entirely between the perforation lines, the adhesive member layered between the top lip and bottom lip and attached to only one of the top lip and bottom lip, whereby the adhesive member may be pulled to tear the perforation lines to gain access inside the container body whereby the portion of the top lip affixed to the bottom lip remains attached to the container.
a container body having a top portion and a bottom portion, the top portion and the bottom portion forming a connection around their periphery, the top portion and the bottom portion including a plurality of sides, the top portion and the bottom portion permanently affixed to one another by a flexible material forming a hinge between the peripheral edge of the top portion and the peripheral edge of the bottom portion along one of the plurality of sides;
a top lip extending from the top portion;
a bottom lip extending from the bottom portion, a portion of the top lip affixed to a portion of the bottom lip at the peripheral edge or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the top lip and the bottom lip;
two perforation lines in only one of the top lip and the bottom lip, the perforation lines situated at a point on the selected lip between the location at which the top lip and the bottom lip are affixed and the central edge of the selected lip where it meets the sidewall portion of the container body, along the side opposite the hinge; and an adhesive member spanning entirely between the perforation lines, the adhesive member layered between the top lip and bottom lip and attached to only one of the top lip and bottom lip, whereby the adhesive member may be pulled to tear the perforation lines to gain access inside the container body whereby the portion of the top lip affixed to the bottom lip remains attached to the container.
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| US11/818,594 US20080308557A1 (en) | 2007-06-15 | 2007-06-15 | Tamper-evident seal for a container |
| US11/818,594 | 2007-06-15 | ||
| PCT/US2008/061936 WO2008156921A1 (en) | 2007-06-15 | 2008-04-30 | Tamper-evident seal for a container |
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| CA2691086A1 CA2691086A1 (en) | 2008-12-24 |
| CA2691086C true CA2691086C (en) | 2016-10-18 |
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| CA2691086A Active CA2691086C (en) | 2007-06-15 | 2008-04-30 | Tamper-evident seal for a container |
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| CA (1) | CA2691086C (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2008156921A1 (en) |
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| US8701919B2 (en) | 2010-07-16 | 2014-04-22 | Cascades Canada Ulc | Plastic container |
| US9624009B2 (en) | 2010-08-26 | 2017-04-18 | Dart Container Corporation | Tamper evident container |
| US8608008B2 (en) | 2010-08-26 | 2013-12-17 | Dart Container Corporation | Tamper evident container |
| US8944270B2 (en) * | 2010-09-17 | 2015-02-03 | Natural Selection Foods, Llc | Container with improved tamper evident structure |
| USD675517S1 (en) | 2011-07-29 | 2013-02-05 | Dart Container Corporation | Container |
| USD748992S1 (en) * | 2012-05-04 | 2016-02-09 | Give And Go Prepared Foods Corp. | Retainer protrusion for a container for food items |
| US8794471B2 (en) | 2012-06-22 | 2014-08-05 | Naturall Selection Foods, LLC | Container with improved tamper evident structure |
| CA2963137C (en) * | 2014-09-30 | 2022-02-01 | Lacerta Group, Inc. | Tamper evident containers |
| USD761127S1 (en) * | 2014-10-09 | 2016-07-12 | Inline Plastics Corp. | Cupcake container |
| USD795651S1 (en) | 2015-06-30 | 2017-08-29 | Anchor Packaging, Inc. | Tamper evident plastic food container |
| US9796511B2 (en) | 2015-06-30 | 2017-10-24 | Anchor Packaging, Inc. | Tamper evident plastic food container |
| US9656785B2 (en) | 2015-06-30 | 2017-05-23 | Anchor Packaging, Inc. | Tamper evident plastic food container |
| US9580219B2 (en) | 2015-06-30 | 2017-02-28 | Anchor Packaging | Tamper evident plastic food container |
| US9475621B1 (en) | 2015-09-29 | 2016-10-25 | Anchor Packaging, Inc. | Tamper evident plastic food container with trigger open mechanism |
| USD792240S1 (en) * | 2016-03-31 | 2017-07-18 | Inline Plastics Corp. | Cupcake container |
| USD806576S1 (en) * | 2016-04-01 | 2018-01-02 | Inline Plastics Corp. | Cupcake container |
| USD803701S1 (en) * | 2016-04-01 | 2017-11-28 | Inline Plastics Corp. | Cupcake container |
| CA2984298A1 (en) | 2016-10-28 | 2018-04-28 | Genpak, Llc | Tamper-evident container with a tabbed hinge |
| US10894635B2 (en) | 2016-10-28 | 2021-01-19 | Genpak, Llc | Tamper-evident container with a wide tab extending beyond a hinge |
| US10889413B2 (en) | 2016-10-28 | 2021-01-12 | Genpak, Llc | Tamper-evident container with a tab extending beyond a hinge |
| US10220985B2 (en) | 2016-10-28 | 2019-03-05 | Genpak, Llc | Tamper-evident container with a tabbed hinge |
| US11077991B2 (en) * | 2018-08-22 | 2021-08-03 | Pinnpack Packaging, Llc | Container having a tamper evidence tab |
| USD880315S1 (en) * | 2018-10-25 | 2020-04-07 | PinnPack Packaging LLC | Cupcake package |
| CA194298S (en) | 2020-04-01 | 2022-03-07 | Cascades Canada Ulc | Container |
| US11479392B2 (en) | 2020-05-20 | 2022-10-25 | Anchor Packaging, Llc | Tamper evident plastic food container |
| US11479389B2 (en) | 2020-05-20 | 2022-10-25 | Anchor Packaging, Llc | Tamper evident plastic food container |
| USD963474S1 (en) | 2021-05-26 | 2022-09-13 | Placon Corporation | Container base |
| USD964161S1 (en) | 2021-05-26 | 2022-09-20 | Placon Corporation | Container base |
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| US3836039A (en) * | 1972-07-31 | 1974-09-17 | Mayer & Co Inc O | Easy-opening means for plastic packages |
| DE7604691U1 (en) * | 1976-02-18 | 1976-07-08 | Bosch Gmbh Robert | Container packing |
| FR2516052A1 (en) * | 1981-11-06 | 1983-05-13 | Plastigord Plastiques Perigord | BOX WITH SEALED CLOSURE FORMING CONTAINER FOR VARIOUS PRODUCTS |
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| US4936464A (en) * | 1987-07-24 | 1990-06-26 | Kim Myun H | Package in combination with a tear band device |
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| US5040695A (en) * | 1990-07-06 | 1991-08-20 | W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn. | Tear off hinge |
| US5544770A (en) * | 1993-05-07 | 1996-08-13 | Travisano; Frank P. | Tamper evident seal and system |
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| IT1296883B1 (en) * | 1997-12-18 | 1999-08-02 | Safta Spa | FOLDABLE PACKAGING SYSTEM AND RELATED MANUFACTURING PROCEDURES |
| US6276529B1 (en) * | 2000-02-16 | 2001-08-21 | The Gillette Company | Packaging unit for articles with convenient opening strip |
| US6572909B1 (en) * | 2000-05-03 | 2003-06-03 | De Ster Corporation | Container having single-cycle hinge and use thereof |
| GB0122044D0 (en) * | 2001-09-12 | 2001-10-31 | Huhtamaki Uk Ltd | Tamper-evident lid assembly |
| US7341160B2 (en) * | 2002-08-08 | 2008-03-11 | Pactiv Corporation | Reclosable package having an accessible zipper and a method for making the same |
| DE602004016523D1 (en) * | 2003-07-21 | 2008-10-23 | Inline Plastics Corp | CONTAINER WITH ORIGINALITY SAFETY FEATURES |
| US7073680B2 (en) * | 2003-07-21 | 2006-07-11 | Inline Plastics Corporation | Tamper-resistant container with tamper-evident feature and method of forming the same |
| US8113377B2 (en) * | 2003-08-19 | 2012-02-14 | J.L. Clark, Inc. | Tamper evident multiple door closure |
| US20050092641A1 (en) * | 2003-10-31 | 2005-05-05 | Marsden Andrew W. | Medicine container and packaging therefor |
| FI20040431A (en) * | 2004-03-22 | 2005-09-23 | Stora Enso Oyj | Fiberglass cup pack |
| US20060006178A1 (en) * | 2004-07-08 | 2006-01-12 | Foldesi Steve Sr | Tamper-indicating food container lid |
| US7568589B2 (en) * | 2005-06-24 | 2009-08-04 | Pwp Industries | Edge-tearing tamper-evident container |
| CA2558048A1 (en) * | 2005-08-31 | 2007-02-28 | Bars Innovations, Inc. | Tamper evident thermoformed containers |
-
2007
- 2007-06-15 US US11/818,594 patent/US20080308557A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2008
- 2008-04-30 CA CA2691086A patent/CA2691086C/en active Active
- 2008-04-30 WO PCT/US2008/061936 patent/WO2008156921A1/en active Search and Examination
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US20080308557A1 (en) | 2008-12-18 |
| WO2008156921A1 (en) | 2008-12-24 |
| CA2691086A1 (en) | 2008-12-24 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request |
Effective date: 20140430 |